Chapter 0 - Prologues without titles are a sign the author is lazy - Binary

Soul | Royal Road

> Syndicate Grunt 1 PoV <

I hate this job.

It's boring, the pay sucks, and I was just denied reassignment.

I don't complain much though, the boss is scary.

If I piss him off, my head will roll. Literally.

Well, I should really say it's as expected of an underground society.

But that guy isn't right in the head.

What sort of loony puts his "priceless collection" in orbit?

And then orders us - the guards - to wait on the planet below?

I mean, that�fs a [Vault] up there you know?

It�fs just a freighter.

No, it�fs more accurate to call it a �eflying box�f.

It has no guns, no armor and the shield is mostly for show.

We board and loot these things all the time!

Also, why the hell are we in this middle-of-nowhere star system?

There isn't even a drop of excitement out here!

"Proximity warning - unknown craft on collision course with target." (Security VI)

Wait, what?

"Impact event - hull breach detected. Intruder detected in the interior." (Security VI)

Hey, hey, hey! That's not the kind of excitement I meant!

"All hands to the hangar, we are going to assault that freighter!" (Squad Leader)

Orders came through the radio in my ear.

I obediently follow the orders and head to my ship.

Oh right, they did say this was some sort of trap, didn't they?

I didn't believe it though - the risk is way too high.

A single container on that spaceship will have me set for life!

I figured the "It's a trap!" excuse was so we wouldn't get greedy and run off with the loot.

Well, the boss is way too scary to try something like that anyway.

I reach the hanger and with practiced movements jump into the provided ship and start leaving the ground with the
rest of the squad.

***

Three minutes later we're approaching the freighter while sticking in formation.

There's twelve of us so a single ship doesn't have any chance of winning in a firefight.

However, this particular intruder has decided to ram their ship into the freighter and board it.

He's probably trying to hijack it and make a jump to get away.

It's a fool's errand - even the best of hackers would take at least 10 minutes to break that ship's security.

"Hey chief, is it me or is that ship's Jump Drive charging?" (Grunt 2)

"Wait a second, that's way too fast! What the hell?" (Grunt 3)

"I mean, our opponent is the rumored rogue Epsilon, right?" (Grunt 4)

"A rogue Epsilon? That's impossible, yo. They're just dolls with no brains right?" (Grunt 3)

"Then how do you explain THAT!" (Grunt 2)

I'm not sure what an "Epsilon" is, but the others are raising a big fuss over it.

"Quiet down!" (Squad Leader)

The chief's voice puts an end to the commotion.

"Our job is to blow up that ship and make sure the target doesn't escape!" (Squad Leader)

"Hah! Good one, chief." (Grunt 1)

"As if that old fart would let anything happen to his money!" (Grunt 3)

It's a joke, right?

It has to be a joke.

The loot in there would set me up for twenty lifetimes.

"I'm serious. That thing is way more dangerous than we can imagine!" (Squad Leader)

"... are we seriously doing this? Won't the boss get mad?" (Grunt 1)
"He'll be even more mad if it escapes.

Look, it's just about ready for a jump. It must have started charging almost immediately.

Target the reactor room near the back of the ship and take it offline!" (Squad Leader)

> Narrator PoV <

High-speed automatic cannons mercilessly assaulted the "Vault" ship.

The shield is penetrated in an instant.

The hull is chewed up.

The interior is pulverized.

Plumes of flame escape from the sides.

Engines die out.

Life support and artificial gravity go offline.

But the all-important Jump Drive and reactor diligently perform their jobs.

The Jump Drive is an important component, but its small size makes it near impossible to hit with weapons fire.

As long as it has power and coordinates, it can rip open a wormhole in space and allow ships instant, safe passage
across the galaxy or your money back.

The reactor on the other hand, is shaped like a 20 meter sphere and is an extremely delicate piece of machinery.

Standing next to it, right in the way of the gunfire pouring in from the outside, is a person.

Covered head-to-toe in a pitch-black space suit, the figure stands while holding its arms in front.

Bullets with a caliber size like a human head ripped up the ship�fs hull like paper.

Those same bullets suddenly lose all velocity and stop dead, repelled by an invisible force.

"Jump Drive charging. Wormhole will open in 10... 9..."

Such a message is displayed on the figure�fs helmet visor.

8...

However, the face inside is bleeding freely from the ears, eyes and nose.

7...

Like the weight of the world crushing down on it, the figure shakes furiously.

6...

It falls to one knee from the strain.

5...

Time seems to slow down.

4...

The floor explodes.

3...

The figure is thrown against the far wall.

2...

Crashing into it hard, it loses focus.

1...

Several bullets plow into the reactor.

"Commencing jump."

For an instant, space itself cracks. A dazzling white light engulfs the ship.

......

....

..

"Jump complete."
Chapter 1 - The weather forecast often feels more like a wish than a
prediction - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Act One - The city where anything can happen

> Narrator PoV <

The city of Runetap. The largest trade city in the Kingdom of Ferseit, built on the crossroads of two major highways.
Population at any given time exceeds 400,000 people, but only half of those were permanent residents. Most of
those living here, permanently or otherwise, were human. Elves, dwarves and cat-folk were in the minority, but they
were still a common sight.

It was by no means a quiet place. Merchant wagons struggle to pass each other in the busy streets. Loud cheers can
be heard from numerous bars and restaurants. Fights and disputes often broke out in the street. At first glance
Runetap a noisy place that attracts trouble. However, the sheer amount of trouble that reared its head was staggering.

Not even 150 years old, it has been visited by disaster time and time again.

Like 120 years ago, when a mad wizard raised an army of undead rats. He terrorized the people with disease and
plague before succumbing to a violent cough in the sewers.

Or 98 years ago, when a massive earthquake split open the very earth. It had released previously unknown insect-
like monsters onto the streets.

Then there was the time 70 years ago when a vampire cult was wiped out. They had nearly released an army of
demons.

Let's not forget 43 years ago when the rat wizard came back to life. He resumed his plans for world domination with
his new assistant, a fully sentient rodent named Pinky. The City Guard was ready for him this time - they quickly
dispersed the threat.

Or how about that incident 19 years ago when a High Dragon flew over the town and dropped a house-sized piece of
dung on it. It crashed into and collapsed the city�fs fort.

That�fs not even mentioning the regular invasions from monsters. Goblins, orcs, trolls, skeletons - all manner of
beasts threaten the city on an almost weekly basis, only to be repelled by the experienced and dutiful soldiers of the
City Guard.

Runetap's citizens call it "the city where anything can happen" with a bittersweet smile. Today as well, it would live
up to that nickname.

***

"Look I'm telling you I can handle it!" (Kiressara)

The young woman slammed both of her hands onto the countertop.

"Miss Quasse, please understand if I don't follow these rules, the branch head will yell at me. My job is on the line
here." (Receptionist)

He refused to let her take a commission from the guild.

"But I completed a Rank C job just last week!" (Kiressara)

The job in question was a simple troll subjugation mission - clear out the den of trolls and bring back their jaw bones
as proof of the deed. The young mage by the name of Kiressara mil Quasse was a Rank C adventurer capable of
fulfilling such a job on her own.

"And I'm telling you, the guild has changed its policy. We cannot approve solo commissions of the same or higher
rank anymore." (Receptionist)

"But WHY?" (Kiressara)

Her long, scarlet hair, tied in a loose ponytail, flailed behind her as she complained vehemently to the middle-aged
receptionist in front of her.

"I'm told it's to protect talented individuals from their own greed and conceit." (Receptionist)

The receptionist flashed her a look, almost as if that rule was made specifically for her. Even though it wasn�ft the
case, he had never appreciated her attitude. Deep down, he was enjoying the current situation. The misfortune of
others is always entertaining, after all.

�gMay I suggest you pick a Rank D or lower job?�h (Receptionist)

"But I can't raise my rank with those!" (Kiressara)

Adventurers needed to do jobs befitting their rank. Doing so lets them pile up achievements and eventually get
promoted. That, in turn, allows them access to higher-ranked jobs which came with a significant increase in both
risk and reward.

So while a Rank C like Kiressara could accept jobs Rank B or below, only those ranked B or C would allow her to
pile up achievements. But having been denied that, she was now unable to climb up to her goal - the coveted Rank
A.

This was the crux of her problem.

"Miss Quasse, may I suggest you just join a team?" (Receptionist)

"Don't say 'join a team' like it's that easy!" (Kiressara)

"Then, will you be taking a rank D commission? If not I must ask you to leave as you are holding up the line."
(Receptionist)

"Grrr, this isn't over!" (Kiressara)

The female mage pointed threateningly at the receptions before turning towards the exit and striding off in a huff.

"Oi oi, the Crackhead is at it again." (Adventurer 1)

"As usual, the head is bad." (Adventurer 2)

"Really she should calm down and get a man already." (Adventurer 3)

"Yeah, she's probably just frustrated." (Adventurer 2)

"Gyahaha! Maybe I should go offer my help, eh?" (Adventurer 1)

"Watch yourself! She's packing some serious offensive power! Kyahaha!" (Adventurer 3)

Enduring such comments from the other adventurers in the line behind her, she steadily grew more and more
annoyed at the situation. By the time she actually made it outside the Adventurer�fs Guild building she was
practically fuming.
Her off-white Basilisk Leather armor tried its best to reflect the midday sun, but long use and harsh conditions had
long ago taken away its shine. Kiressara kept walking down the street, quietly seething at her predicament.

�eJoin a team�f was indeed the solution. However, it was far from simple. There were nothing but male
adventurers in the city, and all of them stared at her with indecent eyes.

Is it because of my breasts? I think they might�fve gotten bigger again�c (Kiressara)

Kiressara lamented the useless lumps of fat on her chest. They really were entirely too big, bordering on being
impractical. They even caused the occasional back pain. Kiressara always hated the wrong kind of attention she got
from her surroundings.

What is it with men who become adventurers? It�fs like there�fs a mandatory requirement for them to be total
pigs! Or are my breasts somehow the causing this behavior?

The fact of the matter was, there were simply too few female adventurers. And none of them lived in Runetap. The
few that tried were often harassed incessantly - not too different from how Kiressara was treated earlier.

Although things were better in other places, it was not by much. The vast majority of female adventurers never made
it past the initial Rank F before quitting. Even fewer kept going past Rank D. Kiressara was one of those.

Verbal harassment was something she was already used to. Anyone who dares to touch her without her approval got
immediately zapped with a short-range [Shock] spell, knocking them out. An unfortunate exception to this were the
armorers and blacksmiths that made the purchase of new equipment an ordeal for her.

It's the breasts, isn't it? (Kiressara)

Those craftsmen were obviously men. And all of them wanted to fondle the obvious mounds on her chest. They used
excuses like �gperforming measurements�h and even had the gall to demand additional payment for �ghaving to
expand the chest area.�h

It's definitely the breasts. (Kiressara)

Kiressara was in a pickle. She was unquestionably capable - she made it all the way to Rank C in just two years.
This was an achievement that took most people at least five years of hard work and the sign of a veteran adventurer.
She had accomplished this completely on her own, relying on her quick wits, accurate judgement, formidable magic
and large mana pool.

Maybe the excess mana is accumulating in my breasts and making them grow larger? (Kiressara)

Quickly abandoning that silly thought, Kiressara once again considered the drawbacks of joining a team. While it
was true that having more people meant the jobs would be easier, it also meant that the rewards would have to be
divided. This was part of the reason why her rank had climbed so much faster than the rest of her peers.

After all, if a team of three people and a team of six people both completed the same number of jobs in the same
amount of time, it would be obvious which one had more capable people. Therefore, as a solo adventurer who
prided herself in efficiency, it was only natural she would be promoted two or three times faster than normal.

However, that possibility was now taken away from her. If she wanted to achieve her dream of attaining Rank A and
all the special privileges that came with it, it was absolutely necessary to join a team. And while she did receive
several invitations to various (obviously all-male) teams, she rejected all of them. Their ability might not have been
in question, but their motives could not be trusted.

Their target was, as expected, my breasts? (Kiressara)

Her luck truly had ran out. Completely refusing to join a team, the only thing left for her to do was to keep earning a
living through low-rank jobs and hope the Guild overturns that stupid rule soon. In truth, she had a pretty good idea
about what caused this rather sudden policy change.

While it was generally frowned upon in the adventurer community, solo adventurers were not banned from taking
high-ranking jobs. If they got hurt or killed, it would be entirely their own fault for misjudging their own strength.

That was, until about a month ago. A rich noble�fs son got in over his head. He mistook the strength of his
comrades - thugs hired by his father to keep an eye on him - as his own. He got cocky and challenged a Cyclops
subjugation commission all by himself. A humanoid five-meter tall slab of muscle covered in thick rock-like skin,
the Cyclops is a dangerous monster classified as a Rank B threat. Since the regulations allowed it, the reckless Rank
C adventurer was free to take this job.

After locating the target, his first attack was an extraordinarily foolish one. He threw his spear at the monster�fs
sole eye. He missed and hit the monster in the forehead, the thick skull easily repelling the spear. Having its obvious
weak spot targeted, the Cyclops flew into a rage and retaliated with an uprooted tree he used as a club. The foolish
nobleman barely managed to escape with his life, but both his legs were crushed into pulp as a result.

So the father, instead of accepting the situation as his son�fs own stupidity, completely blamed it on the
Adventurer�fs Guild. He made a huge deal of it and tried to turn it into a scandal. Unable to ignore the demands of
a high-ranking noble like that, the Guild had to do something. In truth, although for the wrong reasons, the newly
established policy regarding solo adventurers wa not a wrong one.

�gHaaah. I�fll just depress myself if I keep moping around here. I guess I should pay a visit to the church�c�h
(Kiressara)

Having decided to derail her increasingly depressing thoughts, Kiressara made her way towards the Church of Enuri
near the south gate. It was a large imposing building made out of stone. Just as she was about to climb the stone
steps to the entrance, she abruptly stopped and gazed at the sky to the north.

�gHuh?�h (Kiressara)

Without being sure of the reason herself, she kept staring the partially cloudy sky.

�gAs expected, there�fs nothing there, huh?�h (Kiressara)

As expected? Was there supposed to be something there? She kept scanning the sky while standing in the middle of
the street like a lamp post. It was a perfectly normal blue sky with a perfectly normal sun, perfectly normal clouds
and perfectly normal star twinkling in the distance.

�gHuh? Star?!�h (Kiressara)

Okay, that last bit was not actually normal. Even though she found the anomaly oddly cute, it was clearly not
supposed to be there. She rubbed her eyes, wondering if she was seeing things. Other people became curious as to
what this red-haired blue-eyed woman was staring at and followed her gaze.

"Ohh, it moved!" (Old man)

"It's even getting bigger!" (Guy)

"How mysterious!" (Girl)

Sure enough, they noticed the anomaly too, looking on it with the sort of curious amusement one would normally
get from watching two ants restle.

"Wait, rather isn't it actually getting closer?" (Man)

"Haha, surely that can't be right." (Guy)

"Mhm, just our imagination." (Girl)

"Just been in the sun too long, that's all. Haha." (Old man)

Confronted with the absurdness that seemed too much even for Runetap, the people started nodding along in unison.
It almost looked like they were performing a strange ritual to reject this reality where a star was about to fall onto
their city. As if by ignoring it, they would conjure a spell to make it disappear.

Such a spell doesn't exist though. (Kiressara)

Kiressara on the other hand had quietly accepted this reality instead of running away from it. Somehow, almost
instinctively, she felt that the thing in the sky was not really a star. It was simply something really big that was on
fire. Having concluded the sky was not literally falling down on her, she decided it would be best to quietly vacate
the area before the inevitable panic broke out.

"Hey�c That's a star, isn't it? A star is falling towards us right now, isn't it?!" (Man)

She was too little too late.

Chapter 2 - It's strange that "Calm Down" and "Don't Panic" seem to
have the opposite effect when said in times of emergency - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
> Kiressara mil Quasse PoV <

�gA star is falling towards us right now, isn't it?!�h (Man)

Oh great. You just had to go and say it didn�ft you.

Those words spread like wildfire. Followed by panic. People start running around and screaming while fearing for
their lives. It�fs pretty ugly how desperate they seem to be, actually.

Wait, that's normal, isn�ft it? Aren�ft I the strange one for being so calm right now?

Oh! Nope! There�fs a few others staring blankly at it as well! You get those types of people everywhere - the type
that just stare at the coming disaster in awe.

Me? No no no, I�fm not one of those nutjobs. I just know it won�ft hit us. It�fs not a guess. It�fs intuition
honed by years of throwing things!

Fireballs, lightning, icicles, drunkards. Yep, I�fve thrown a good number of things in the last two years! I also got a
lot of things thrown back at me. Usually rocks and arrows, sometimes a stick. One time a troll threw a whole goblin
at me. That one was weird. The poor guy ended up going splat against a rock behind me.

Urk�c just thinking about it might make me lose my lunch�c

But yeah, looking at the thing in the sky as it slowly approaches us, I can confidently state it won�ft hit us. By the
looks of things it�fs going to pass overhead and crash harmlessly into the Eagle Forest to the south. It looks scary
but it won�ft actually harm anything.

Well, it might crush a few goblins and maybe scare some sheep, but that�fs about it.

It's fine, right? Yeah, this much is fine.

<<I can�ft�c too weak�c>> (Unknown Girl)

...

Huh? That was weird. I just heard a strange language. There�fs a lot of screaming going on around me, but that one
came through clearly. Oddly enough it seemed to come from inside my head.

I think all this noise is getting to me. Mhm, that�fs definitely it.

Ohh, the so-called �estar�f has gotten pretty close hasn�ft it? I can almost make out some details!

Yep, it�fs a big black brick-shaped thing and it�fs on fire. Just as expected.

�c

Why was that expected? Did I scream at that receptionist a bit too much earlier and get light-headed? I should lie
down. Though I don�ft think I can get any rest in the current situation.

"AIIIEEE! SAVE MEEE!" (Girl)

"Nooo! It's the end of the woooorld!" (Old man)

"Waaah! I don't want to be crushed!" (Guy)

The thing on fire keeps coming closer and closer. It�fs actually much much bigger than I thought! It�fs hard to tell
the scale with just the sky as a background after all! I think I can almost feel the heat coming from those red flames
it�fs covered in, too!

"Please someone save me!" (Overweight Man)

"Out of my way! Don't block me!" (Rude Man)

"Stop pushing you idiot!" (Rude Man 2)

"AAAH! TOO LATE! IT'S OVEEER!" (Girl)

*HWOOOOOOH*

I start hearing a strange noise that gets louder as the �estar�f falls closer and closer. Wait, isn�ft the back side of
it billowing strange jets of blue flame? Maybe it�fs just my imagination since the angle is weird, right? I mean why
is the angle weird!? I could�fve sworn it just shifted its direction slightly!

Well, at least the loud noise stopped the people around me from getting too violent. They�fre all just staring up at it
with unbelieving faces as it inexplicably alters the angle it�fs falling at.

At least my guess was still spot on - it�fs headed directly for the forest to the south, leaving the city completely
unscathed! Oh, I should keep an eye out on the bulletin board in the guild! There might be a request to investigate it.
Too bad I won�ft be able to accept it thanks to that idiotic new rule!

Anything to do with that forest is at least Rank C, usually going up to B! I mean, most of the monsters there are
barely Rank D, but there�fs way too many of them. The thick undergrowth makes it a really bad place to get
surrounded.

Hmm? Ah, I see. My guess from earlier was half-right. While the �estar�f did miss the city, various fragments
that have broken off it won�ft. They�fre actually coming right for us!

No good, I have to do something! I reach around my back and take my wooden staff out of its sling. I star pouring
my mana into it and visualize the spell I want in my mind�c

"-------- [Grand Barrier]" (Kiressara)

A giant transparent blue-tinted dome spreads out about 25 meters in every direction. Maintaining it is hard, but I'll
do my best!

"Everyone, get under the shield! I'll try to protect us!" (Kiressara)

The shocked people gather around at my shout. I could make it smaller if I just wanted to protect myself, but these
people are defenseless! Well, against falling inanimate objects from the sky, that is. If it were a monster attack
they�fd probably eat it for lunch. Literally.

But seeing as how I offered to protected them free of charge, I guess I should extend that charity to the old man
behind me. Although I will graciously ignore the hand he put on my butt, I have no idea what he�fs trying to
accomplish during a crisis.

I see other mages in the vicinity erect similarly sized barriers. They can�ft cover everything, but it should be
enough to safeguard the citizens.
The �estar�f is now directly above us. I can make out some more details as it flies past. As expected, it�fs a giant
brick. Only it seems to be made of metal? I can�ft be sure. There�fs some weird bits of it poking out from the
side. Woah! That thing is riddled with holes! It looks like an Elder Dragon ripped it to shreds!

The massive shadow passes over us and keeps on going south, leaving behind nothing but smoke. And debris.

*DOGON!* *KAAN!*

Harsh sounds echo around me as several fireballs crash elsewhere in the city. The citizens huddling nearby are
obviously not thrilled at the prospect.

�gWaaah!�h (Little Girl)

�gOh come on! That better not have landed on my house! I just fixed the roof last month!�h (Man)

�gMommy I�fm scared!�h (Little Girl)

�gYou�fll get used to it in no time dearie.�h (Mother)

I swear, that old man better not get any ideas back there or I�fll really let him have it! Ack! I have no time to be
worry about that! Three of those things are coming right this way!

Okay, calm down Kiressara. Just like that time that giant worm flung rocks over the city wall. It�fs okay, you got
this!

*CLANG*

One of them hits the dome from the side and bounces off, losing speed before smashing into the church!

*KLANG* *KLONG*

The other two smash right into the barrier, getting stuck halfway through it! Cracks spread through the invisible wall
like it was made of glass! If the barrier dissipates now, they�fll fall into the crowd!

Not on my watch! I pour some more mana into it, keeping it from collapsing!

�gRun away! It�fs going to fall!�h (Kiressara)

I call out to the people directly underneath the smoldering black debris! They start quickly moving away from it!
Good! If it�fs like that then-

*PANG*

�gKYAA!�h (Kiressara)

Damn! My staff burst into splinters again! That was close, one of them almost got me in the eye! I overdid it and
poured too much mana into it again! This was the 3rd time this year! I�fll never be able to afford new armor at this
rate!

Ah! Without the staff the barrier dissipates! The two big chunks fall down to the ground like solid steel walls!

*THON THUNG*

They crash into the paved road with a slight ringing noise! Haah, it looks like the people underneath managed to run
away and nobody got hurt.

That�fs good.
I glance at the church. The first piece that bounced off my barrier managed to magnificently lodge itself into the
stone facade. It doesn�ft look like it�fll collapse though.

Ahh�c they�fre going to blame this one on me again, aren�ft they? If I get fined for this one then forget staves
and armor! I won�ft even be able to eat properly! Not with the way they cut off my cash flow with that stupid rule!

Oh, speaking of stupid things, whatever happened to the main body of that �efalling star�f?

I follow the thick smoke trail in the sky, but it looks like it�fs already beyond my sight. I see clouds of dust where
debris have landed along the way.

Just then, a huge eruption of dust and smoke is thrown upwards into the distance. Several heartbeats later, a heavy
groan carries through the air as the ground shakes just a little.

Ahh, I'm saved! (Girl)

Thought I was dead for sure�c (Middle-aged Lady)

Huhuhu, I saw something interesting (Guy)

I remembered something nasty�c (Overweight Man)

Ohhh, this supreme softness�c (Perverted Old Man)

People are finally settling down. Well most of them. That�fs a good thing, right?

But old man, can you stop admiring my chest out loud while shamelessly groping my behind? Maybe I should
[Shock] him just in case? Ah, but I broke my staff...

Where's mommy? (Little girl)

Scary, scary (Little boy)

The sky is no longer safe (Old Man)

I'm suddenly hungry (Overweight man)

A little bit leaked out�c (Guy)

It's really stuck in there huh? (Random citizen)

Okay, I get it, but seriously, come on! This is Runetap! This sort of thing is no big deal right? Can these people keep
it down?! They�fre louder now than they were when they thought we were going to get crushed!

Also, what in the world do you mean it leaked out! Keep that sort of thing to yourself you filthy-

The repair cost will be.. Why is that old man still... I'm really glad to be alive! (Crowd)

"SHUT UP! I CAN'T HEAR MYSELF THINK!" (Kiressara)

I yell out in frustration. My head is starting to hurt! Forget hearing myself think, my vision is starting to get blurry!

T???????h????e??????? ???l??o?????u?????d? ?on????e??? ??????i????s?????? ?y???????o???????u????,? ????t???

h??o???????u??????g?????h?????? ??????A????h??????h??????,?? ???????s?h???????e??'???????s?????? ?????
t????h????a????t?? ?????on?e??????.?.?????? N???o????? ??????g???oo????d,??? ????a?????s?????? ?u???????s?
u????a????l?????? ????s???h?e????'????s?????? ??no???? ??g??????o???????o??????d????? ????T?????h???e?????
??b??od???y???? ???????i???s??????? ????g???r?e???????a?t????? ???b??????u??????t????? ?????t??h???????e ???
h??ead?? ?i???????s???? b???a??d?? ??????(???Cr??????o????w?d??????)???

Why? WHY? WHAT HARASSMENT IS THIS?

I???s?????????s?????????h?????????e????????????a????????l?????r???????i???????g???????????h???????t?????
h?????????w?????????h???????a??????????t?????s??????g?????o?????????i??????n?????g????????o???????
n???????w????????????h???????y????????i??????s?????h?????e??????o???????n??t?????h?????e?g????
r???????????o???u?????n????????d???????s???????o???m????????????e?????????o??????n???????????????
e??????????g???????????e???????t??????h??e?????????l?????????????p????????????s????h???e????s?????????
b?????????l????????e????????????ed????????i?????????n??????g????????????w????????h??????????
a????????????t??????????????s?????????????g??????o??????????i????????n????????g??????????o?????????
n????????t?????????????h?a?????t?????????s??????????a?????????????l????o????????t?????????o???????????????
f???????b?????????l?????o??????o????????????d??????

"STOP IT!" (Kiressara)

T?????????o?????t??a?????????????l?????????l?????y???????l??????????o?????s???i????????????n????g???????
i?????t??????????i?????????w??????????a?????n??????t???????t??????o?????????????t?????????o?????????
u?????????c????????h????????t????????????h?????????????e??????m????????????s????????????o??j??e????
a??????????l???????????o??????????u?????????????s????????o????????l??????d???????m?????a?????????????
n??????w?????h????????e?????????n??????????d???????i????????????d??????????y???o?????????u?????w?????
h????????y?????n????????o?????w????????????i???????t???????????s???????????n???????o??t?????t???????????
h?e?????????t??i??????m??????????????a???????????y????b????????e???i??????t?????????????s??????d?????
i???????s?????e??????????a????????s???????h???????e????????????s?????????????n???????????o??????????
g??????????????o????????o?????????d?????????

"GO AWAY!" (Kiressara)

y?????o???????u????????g?????o???????a?????w?????????a????????y???????b????????a????????????d?????
h???????e???????a?????????????d??????c???????????r??????a?????z???????y??????f????????r??????e????????
a???????????????k????????w??????e??????i?????????????r????????d??????o????????????t??????????h????
a?????????t???????s?????????n???????o????g?????o??????????o?????????d??s??h???e????????s???????????
r???????e???????????a??????l?????????l?????y?????t???????h???????????e???????????w??????o?????????
r????????s????????????t????????w????????h???????a????????????t?????s???????w??????i????????t????????????
h???????????h?????e?????r?????????w????????h???????y???n?????????o??????????????w??????f????????????
r????????????e??????????a???????k???????w?????h?????a????????????t???????????a??c???????????r?a??????
z????y???b?????????a??????????d???????h?????????????e???????a???????????????d???????

"No, NO! LEAVE ME BE!" (Kiressara)

w?????????????????????????????h?????????????????????a???????????????????t???????????????????????????
i?????????????????????????????s??????????????????????????????g?????????????????????????????????
o????????????????????????i????????????????????????n?????????????????????????????
X????????????????????????i????????????????????????????????????f??????????????????????????????
X?????????????????????i????????????????s?????????????????????????????X?????????????
t??????????????????????????????????h????????????????????a??????????????????t???????????????????????
s??????????????????????????????x?????????????????????X???????????????????????X?????????????????????
o????????????????????????????r?????????????????X????????????????????????????????????
X??????????????????????????????????X?????????????????????????????X?????????????????????
X??????????????????????????????????X?????????????????????????X??????????????????????
X?????????????????????????????????????X??????????????????????X???????????????X???????????????????
X????????????????????????????????????X?????????????????????????X?????????????????????????
X?????????????????X?????????????????????????????????X??????????????????????????????????
X????????????????????????????????????X???????????????????????????????????X????????????????????????
X????????????????????????X??????????????????????????????X?????????????????X??????????????????????????
X??????????????????????????X?????????????????X??????????????X???????????????????????
X?????????????????????????????????????

"I SAID! LEAVE! ME! ALOOOOONE!" (Kiressara)

And just then, it felt like my world shattered into tiny pieces.
Chapter 3 - Even adults throw tantrums when nobody's looking - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

What would eventually become known as the [Fallen Star] had just passed over the city of Runetap, but the crisis
had yet to pass. Parts of this unknown object had fallen onto the city, endangering its citizens

One female adventurer reacted by erecting a [Grand Barrier] and took three of these so-called [Starshards] head
on. Although one had bounced off the barrier and smashed into the nearby church, the second and third hit it full on
and threatened to break through it.

Reacting as any reasonable person would, the mage in question reinforced her barrier, holding up the giant slabs of
burnt metal until the people beneath them were able to evacuate.

Many lives were saved that day. The citizens all felt relief wash over them. They would then undoubtedly celebrate
by hoisting their savior in the air, showering them with praise! Well, they would if this were any city other than
Runetap. Though if that were actually the case, there wouldn�ft have been a crisis to begin with. Only this place
had such absurd things happen around it.

So, the people picked themselves up, dusted themselves off and prepared to resume their daily lives. The danger had
passed and the City Guard would handle all the reports and paperwork regarding property damage. Business as usual
so far.

That is when the mage who had worked hard to save them moments ago started writhing around in pain. She
collapsed on her knees next to the splintered remains of her staff. Clutching her head and screaming at nothing in
particular, the jaded citizens simply regarded her as yet another nutjob that was inevitably drawn here. Some of them
were familiar with the infamous red-haired troublemaker, and simply scoffed at her tantrum.

However, the girl called Kiressara did not stop, her distress grew rapidly until it exploded outwards.

"I SAID! LEAVE! ME! ALOOOOONE!" (Kiressara)

*ZUDONNNN*

Literally.

An invisible steel-like wall expanded in all directions with her in the middle. It wrecked her surroundings. Rubble,
dust, bystanders, benches, even the very pavement itself was torn up and thrown away in an instant. It�fs as if all
these objects and people were rejected from her immediate presence and denied entry into her personal space.

Although rookie mages would sometimes lose control of their spells and cause the mana they built up to explode
violently in a similar manner, this was different.

To begin with, no mage in their right mind would believe the one who performed such a high-tier spell just moments
ago was a rookie. Of the shielding-type magic that only humans could wield, barriers were a particularly popular
group of spells due to their reliability and flexibility. Starting with the weakest [Basic Barrier], there were
also [Lesser Barrier], [Barrier], [High Barrier] and finally the ultimate [Grand Barrier]. Just being able to
perform a Grand-tier spell successfully meant she had both the mana capacity and control over it to be considered a
master wizard.

But still, only other mages would be able to recognize this was no mere accidental discharge. Other mages who were
not present in the crowd that stared intently at the epicenter of this incomprehensible event.
And right there was the figure of a terrified, curled up woman who was clutching her head. Bits of the cobblestone
pavement were suspended in the air around her, floating lazily in place.

The luxuriously long scarlet hair was no longer tied in a loose ponytail, but spread outwards and upwards as if it
were underwater. It glistened in the sunlight, creating the illusion of a roaring flame.

Her well-worn armor made of White Basilisk Leather was badly damaged and in tatters - the strain of that unknown
discharge had ripped sizable chunks out of the outfit. Although her modesty was protected, many parts of her fair
skin were left bare. Any more than this and she would risk being arrested for indecent exposure.

The beautiful face was dripping with blood from the nose, eyes and ears. However, the blood did not run down her
face. It floated ominously around her as perfectly round crimson droplets that glistened in the sunlight like rubies.

Much like her surroundings, the person herself was also floating in the air. She stared blankly at the ground
underneath and struggled to process what had just happened. She was either unwilling or unable to realize the fact
that she and everything in a 3 meter radius around her had unanimously decided that gravity was overrated.

Someone in the crowd whimpered, breaking her out of her stupor. She moved her gaze upward, looking at the scene
around her. At the people who were staring quietly in her direction. Some in apprehension, some in fear, some in
awe. Unknown to her, what demanded their attention most of all were her eyes. The pale blue irises were now
shining with a bright purple.

Several breathless moments passed before gravity finally remembered it had a job to do. The woman and the debris
around her fell onto the cracked ground, landing roughly on all fours. She started coughing after finally
remembering to breathe. This is where one would normally check on the poor woman to make sure she�fs alright.

However, those shining eyes of hers were a problem. Such a thing was regarded as a tell-tale sign of being
possessed, and several people in the crowd recognized it as such. These well-informed individuals started backing
away while shooting fearful looks around them. This behavior quickly infected the crowd that had been stunned
silent until now. Panic seemed to break out and spread like wildfire once more as everyone started running away
with all haste. In truth, not all of them were actually that scared - they just wanted to get away from the disturbance.
After all, it was not their job to deal with this sort of thing.

Inexplicable and potentially dangerous situations like this happened regularly in Runetap. The citizens, merchants,
adventurers and mercenaries who lived here all lacked either the willingness, ability or authority to deal with these
incidents. It was in fact the Runetap City Guard that possessed all these qualities . These men professionals well-
versed in dealing with the absurd happenings that threatened public order.

And eight of these armored soldiers arrived on the scene just as the people they had sworn to protect were fleeing
from a single woman. The Squad Leader immediately recognized her as the perpetrator of this particular disturbance
and ordered his men to form a shield wall. After all, it was highly likely she would get violent.

Many veteran guardsmen were familiar with this person. To say she was a troublemaker would be an
understatement. Her temper would often flare up and she would lash out at those who had wronged her. While not a
crime in and of itself, she had a bad habit of lashing out with magic and regularly going overboard. A habit that
would cause a lot of headaches for everyone involved. A habit that this particular Squad Leader was intimately
familiar with.

�gMiss Quasse! Surrender peacefully and you will not be harmed!�h (Squad Leader)

Kiressara�fs instincts reacted before her reason did. She ran. Not away from the guards, but through them. She
dashed right into the shield wall. The guardsmen prepared themselves to subdue her, but were suddenly flung to the
side by an invisible force. They stared dumbly at the retreating suspect. People, carts, chairs, debris - everything in
her way was shoved aside. She kept running straight towards the south gate at an almost impossible speed. It was
obvious to them it was too late to apprehend their suspect - she would undoubtedly escape the city.
After getting back to his feet, the Squad Leader from before simply stared at the trail this woman had left behind.

�gAh�c it wasn�ft a K-18 after all�c Jenkins! Go check the damage to the church, that S-3 did a number on it!
Hart - go double-check for any wounded and/or casualties. The rest of you - on your guard! Make sure nobody tries
to do any looting in this confusion!�h (Squad Leader)

�gYes sir!�h (Guards)

The Squad Leader calmly gave out orders to his men. Rampaging mage or no, once she was out of the city there was
nothing they could do. All that was left now was to deal with the aftermath and file a report to the Guard Captain.

Besides, he knew Kiressara would probably return later to make amends on her own. Despite acting like a borderline
hoodlum, she was still a good person deep down. No matter how many times she was arrested or fined, there were
always circumstances which led to her being released without much issue. Sometimes she would be fined or held in
jail for a few days, but the charges towards here were nothing more than misdemeanors. When compared to the stuff
he usually faced, dealing with that young woman�fs outbursts was almost like a tiny vacation.

***

Kiressara kept running for hours. Her consciousness was caught in a blur as she dashed through the inhospitable
Eagle forest at frightening speed, seemingly surpassing her body�fs limits.

She came across many monsters and wild animals, even a few bandits that crossed her path. All of them were blown
away like leaves in the wind. Trees were uprooted, bushes were flung away and grass was trampled into the dirt. Her
mad charge left behind an odd tunnel-like path through the dense forest.

Something inside her mind was guiding her, urging her to hurry.

> Kiressara PoV <

Haaah, haaah, haaah. I'm way too tired for this... At least I'm finally here.

Where's here?

Good question! Unfortunately I have no idea! I can make a vague guess though.

The thing that had fallen from the sky had crashed in the forest. I'm in a forest, and a smoldering metal building is in
front of me. Therefore, I�fm at the place where that thing fell. This much is obvious.

How did I get here?

Another good question! Unfortunately I still have no idea!

The last thing I remember is feeling like my head exploded, then an odd floating sensation and then running in a
state of absolute panic all the way here. Everything else is a blur. For whatever reason I couldn�ft calm down until
I saw this thing with my very own eyes.

The sun's already setting though, pretty soon this forest will be pitch black. I must�fve been running for hours, yet
my body doesn�ft feel tired at all. What�fs up with that?!

Well, it's my loss if I mind it. These things just happen.

I turn my attention back to the mass of metal that fell from the sky. Smoke, fire and sparks fly out randomly from
the hulking wreckage. By my estimate, it seems to be over 800 meters long.

How did this pointlessly huge thing even make it up that high?! The sheer amount of mana required to float this
thing - I cannot even imagine! Judging from the deep trench it dug out of the ground, it�fs also immensely heavy!
Well, as if something of this scale would be that light.

It�fs definitely hollow and some sort of man-made structure. Just like I thought earlier, the outside is riddled with
holes and practically ripped in half.

Okay, let�fs decide this is a good thing for me. I can get inside easily!

Of course I�fm going inside! This thing is clearly related to the �eheadache�f I had earlier! Therefore, if there is
a cure or a solution, I�fll find it here! Let�fs take care of that before I have to go back and face the Guard Captain
again.

If I have another outburst like that, people will definitely think I�fm insane! No they definitely think that already,
don�ft they?

�gHaah. Just my luck.�h (Kiressara)

First my route to Rank A gets cut off and now this. Maybe I should move to the capital after all? Ah, a return trip is
way too long, I can�ft exactly leave Runetap behind.

I climb up the small dirt hill that had formed underneath this thing and enter through one of the bigger holes. Now
that I�fm looking at it closely, this outer shell didn�ft seem to suffer much from the impact itself, nor the flames it
was covered in. I mean it�fs singed in places, but it�fs not molten or warped even in the slightest.

The inside is a dark and creepy metal corridor. Of course. What else would the inside be like?

Actually, it�fs not as dark as it seemed. The path is illuminated by strange lights in the floor. I�fd light my own
way, but I can�ft cast spells without a staff.

Well, I won�ft get to the bottom of this by standing around! I start walking down the corridor as my eyes get
accustomed to the darkness. After a while I enter some sort of chamber. Strange metal boxes and their contents are
all over the place.

At least, I think they�fre boxes. They look like metal cubes, but several of them are clearly opened up. They were
obviously thrown about, but they�fre still perfectly intact. This chamber is also full of holes, I see the last vestiges
of sunlight trying to peek through them.

Someone clearly did a number on this thing. Was it really done in by an Elder Dragon? Haha. Yeah, right! One of
those hadn�ft been seen on this continent in centuries! Something like Elder Dragons are impossible, right?!

...

No, that's entirely possible. Anything can happen around Runetap, after all!
Chapter 4 - Life is unpredictable, but that's what keeps it interesting -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kiressara PoV <

On second though, this feels like a really bad idea. I have no business out here! Ah, but then again, I can�ft exactly
make it back to civilization either. I don�ft have my staff and it�fs going to be nightfall soon. Trying to cross that
forest under those conditions is�c not a good idea.

For now I�fll keep searching around the place. That vague feeling that seems to have guided me from before has
gone, so I just have to work things out the old fashioned way!

*SSCRRRR*

And there we go. As if the strange atmosphere and dim lighting wasn�ft enough, now I hear something scraping
across the metal floor. I am still without the means to defend myself.

*Toktoktoktok*

�gWah!�h (Kiressara)

Something just passed by in front of me! It was white and looked like a spider! I�fm sorry, I can�ft do it. I�fm
just going to tu-

Huh?

I said! I�fm going to turn ar-

�c

Why is it that I can�ft bring myself to even consider leaving this place?! What�fs going on!?

*Tok tok tok*

Oh, it�fs back�c It does kind of look like a spider. It�fs white, has a spider-like body, six legs sitcking out of the
side and two weird claw-like things on the front. The main body is about the size of a human torso.

However, it looks to be a solid shell rather than a flesh-and-blood creature. Its giant red eye flashes a few times at
me before it turns around and walks off. I guess it even looks kind of cute with that rounded shape and odd gait.

Hmm? Wasn�ft it walking away? It just stopped and turned towards me again. Ah, it�fs waving one of its claws at
me and- It�fs beckoning me to follow it?!

...

Okay, why not? I�fm technically trespassing, yet it�fs obviously not hostile. If it wanted to attack me, it
would�fve already done so. Yeah, I might as well see what it wants to show me.

It leads me further inside. I follow it through a number of corridors and chambers, until we stop at an odd wall.
There's several large grooves and a small box on the side that�fs lit up.

*Tsuuu*

Okay, the walls slide aside with a low hiss-like noise. I guess it was a door? No, that overly-complicated thing has to
be a secret entrance, right? Well, whatever the case, white light pours out from the inside so I might as well go in!
I step into the room. It�fs a mess. Bits and pieces of broken things and weird slates are all over the place, however
the only impression the room gives off is white. The floor, the walls, the ceiling, the shattered remains of what I
assume was once furniture, even the odd light coming out of the walls is all a uniform snow-like white.

Except for one part of the floor. Something black is there. No, someone!

It�fs a girl in strange full-body pitch-black armor, with an equally black helmet. The armor is ripped open in
several places and covered in blood. The helmet is also badly damaged - it�fs obviously dented on one side and the
front is�c cracked like it was made of glass? Why in the-

No! What she�fs wearing isn�ft important! She�fs clearly hurt! She�fs lying motionless on the ground and
covered in blood after all!

�gHey? Hey! Are you okay?! Can you hear me?!�h (Kiressara)

I quickly go to her side and kneel down next to her so I can examine her. I can�ft treat her - I�fm not a priest and
the vials that were holding my healing potions broke from earlier - but at least I can confirm her condition!

Now that�fs odd. There�fs blood all over the armor, but no wounds. I guess she already got treated? Her modest
chest is gently moving up and down so she�fs obvious breathing and definitely alive.

"I�fm glad..." (Kiressara)

Relief washes over me as I relax my shoulders. Regardless of who she is, I�fm seriously glad she�fs alive.
Nobody deserves to die alone in a gloomy place like this�c

�gKhn!�h (Black Figure)

She moved! She let out a small groan and moved! Her slender hand weakly raises in the air towards me!

I grasp it with both my own and hold my breath. Please be safe! Please don�ft leave me here! Somehow, I feel like
if I were to let go of her now, I�fll regret it for the rest of my life!

I don�ft know what�fs causing this feeling, and I know I�fve been acting weird today, but an adventurer should
know when to trust her guts, damn it!

Okay, she�fs slowly waking up! She moves her legs around a bit and slightly shifts her body! Good, it looks like
everything is in working order, right?

The other hand slowly moves to her helmet and grasps the front.

A faint clicking is heard and she slowly raises it.

Wait, please don�ft tell me she�fs going to impart a dying wish? Please spare me from that sort of responsibility!
No, actually, there�fs nobody else but me! Okay, be brave Kiressara. Don�ft jump to conclusions! She just came
back to life or something so her drifting away immediately after would be just too unfair, right?!

The black figure slowly sits up! Yes! She�fs not actually dying!

She turns to face me, the faceplate on that weird helmet now completely revealing her features. I lock eyes with her,
both unable and unwilling to look away.

"..." (Kiressara)

"..." (Girl in black)

Oh, now I understand!

It�fs a dream! It�fs clearly a dream. It�fs one of those �elucid dreams�f I�fve been hearing about! The ones
where you�fre actually asleep, but completely in control of the dream, right?

Well, now that I know about it, I can safely wake up! Mystery solved!

How do I wake up though? Let�fs try the classic - pinching myself!

�gOw!�h (Kiressara)

Okay, that didn�ft work. How about laying down on the ground and falling asleep. If I sleep in my dream I�fll
wake up in the real world, right? Sure, why not! It doesn�ft make much sense, but it�fs still more logical than the
other things that happened today!

I mean, tonight!

I lie down on my back and close my eyes. You can do it Kiressara. I have faith in me!

This is a dream, it�fs all in my head. It�fs all in my head. This is not real, because it�fs just in my head.
Therefore, when my eyes flutter open they will immediately recognize the ceiling of my regular room at the inn!

I got this. I totally got this!

I focus my consciousness and then-

The eyes open suddenly!

And immediately close tight!

That�fs right. Rejecting reality is bad.

I got carried away. Please forgive me.

Right, deep breaths.

Hii Hii Fuu.

Alright.

I can do this.

The eyes open slowly! I sit up and turn towards the other person in the room.

The girl in black is, as expected, still there. She�fs sitting while hugging her knees and smiling pleasantly at me.
She looks a bit cute like that�c Okay, let�fs break this down into smaller bits I can comprehend.

What happened in the city? No idea. Moving on.

What happened in the forest? Again, no idea. Moving right along.

What�fs happening right now? This�c this I may be able to deal with.

Let�fs carefully assess the situation one step at a time.

First of all I�fm awake. That much is obvious.

I don�ft sense any mana in the air so it�fs likely not an illusion.

I don�ft remember going crazy or eating anything strange. So not a hallucination either. Probably. Ah, but that�fs
something a crazy person would say, isn�ft it!? But just the fact that I�fm considering the possibility I�fve gone
completely insane is a good thing, right?

Not unless I�fm double-extra crazy! Argh! This is meaningless! Okay, let�fs just put that thought away for the
moment and examine the suspect in front of me!

Short blue hair. Only elves can have blue hair, right? However, her ears aren�ft pointy and she doesn�ft look like
a soft breeze will knock her over. So she�fs an elf and yet not an elf? Do half-elves even exist?

Well no, they don�ft.

Mix-breeds are impossible. Maybe she dyed it? But it looks so natural... Oh well, it�fs my loss if I mind the details,
after all.

Next are the eyes. The left one is red, the right one a pale blue. The red one is clearly abnormal, though the blue one
seems familiar�c Come to think of it, isn�ft it a lot like my own? Ah, I wish I had a mirror with me!

No, that can wait! The hair color you can explain, but the eyes themselves are way too irregular! They�fre clearly
not human! That peculiar shape and inner light are definitely the eyes of a cat-kin!

However, she has neither fur nor a tail! Not to mention the all-important and soft cat ears are missing!

So she�fs part cat-kin?

Mix-breeds are impossible though.

I said a second time. Because it�fs important. And it would still be my loss if I minded it. Moving on-

She seems a bit shorter than me and a lot more slender. Especially the chest area.

Ah, she�fs glaring at a part of me with a difficult to read expression.

Is it the chest?

It might be the chest.

It�fs definitely the chest, huh?

Looks like I�fm undefeated today as well. It�fs like comparing the mountains to the valleys, absolutely no
contest! Huhuhu, I don�ft know where you came from, but you won�ft beat me when it comes to that place!

"..." (Girl in black)

What? Glare all you like, but it�fs your own fault for reading my mind like that. It�fs rude you know!

"...!" (Girl in black)

Huhuhu, my Rank C isn�ft just for show. What happened to me in town is somehow connected, and now that I
think about it, those were definitely the people�fs thoughts, right? Yep, looks like I�fm right.

Or rather, of course I�fm right! Don�ft underestimate adventurers! Even if you�fre pretty, I won�ft forgive you
if you take me lightly!

Oh wow, you�fre actually blushing! Are you really that unused to compliments?! That embarrassed look is almost
too adorable to be legal you know!

Fufufu, the way she fidgets makes me want to tease her even more!
Ah come on, don�ft make that face. I was just fooling around. I promise I�fll stop so please stay out of my head.
It�fs really not okay!

She nods once.

Did you seriously stop?

�c

Okay, good. Whatever�fs going on, we seem to be able to communicate properly. This is important. I have many
questions for what happened today, after all.

So many that I�fm not sure where to even begin! Actually, let�fs address the most pressing issue first. Something
that made me seriously doubt my sanity just a while ago.

*Ahem*

"Why do you have my face?! Don�ft get me wrong, it�fs a cute face. Gorgeous even, if I do say so myself! As
expected of me, right? Of course I�fm a fan. I can�ft help it. I mean, it�fs exactly like mine after all!�h
(Kiressara)

I wave my arms around frantically as I let loose the complaints I�fve been holding back! The hair and eyes I�fm
willing to overlook, but something like having my face is way too much!

�gPlease! Please explain it properly! Without the mind-reading! You have to do something about all of this!
Aaaah! This is the worst day of my liiiiife!" (Kiressara)

*pat pat*

I suddenly felt a gentle touch while I was writhing around on the ground. She�fs patting my head while smiling
pleasantly and nodding her head slowly. I don�ft need to be a mind-reader to know she�fs going �fthere,
there�f inside her mind!

Well�c It�fs a bit shameful to be comforted like a little kid at my age, but it�fs been a REALLY long day.

�gWaaahaahaaaha! Huk! Huk! It was horrible! Huk! Why did this have to happen to meeee?!�h (Kiressara)

So, just this once, I�fm going to allow myself to sulk and cry without holding back!
Chapter 5 - They say you'll die if you meet your double, but that should
only happen if you're a bad person to begin with - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Ellie PoV <

What a fun person!

This is the first time I've met someone like this!

Everyone else I ever met wanted to kill me though.

I wonder if it�fs okay to call this person Kira.

Friends give each other special names, right?

And I want to be friends for sure!

Besides, the name really suits Kira.

It�fs short and sweet, and saying it somehow fills me with confidence!

Yep, it fits.

Kira is really upset because of me, I didn�ft know what to do at first.

But then Nano said to begin Operation There-There!

As expected of Nano�fs strategy, it�fs super effective!

Kira broke down started crying, but I completely understand.

It was my fault Kira had to go through all that, after all.

After calming down a bit, Kira looks at me and then gets upset again.

The way Kira�fs expressions seem to shift around is really amusing to watch!

Also, I�fm not sure why, but Kira looks really pretty.

Even though the face is the same, Kira is without a doubt much prettier than me!

I think it's the hair.

It's a lively red and really long.

*Stroke stroke*

I gently touch it.

Soft and silky.

It may also be the chest.

Also, I�fm not jealous about that sort of thing, okay?

Those things probably get in the way when moving around.

However, they look soft and bouncy.

Might be fun to play around with, even though it would be impractical.

I somehow got envious of it for a while.

Part of me got competitive for no good reason, as if I was envious.

However, that was a silly notion.

It�fs impossible to be envious of yourself.

And this person in front of me, is me!

It was a bit strange at first, but it was easy enough to accept after thinking about it a little!

I mean Kira smells exactly like me!

Even Nano said it was like that!

Therefore, Kira is also me!

But wait, there�fs more!

I had lost consciousness as we were landing on this world.

Crashed? No no no, it was a landing.

After the landing, Nano seems to have been busy taking care of my wounds, but I wouldn�ft wake up even after he
was done.

How could I wake up?

I wasn�ft actually in my own body!

It felt like my conciousness got separated from the rest of me during our controlled descent!

And it landed in Kira�fs head!

Super weird!

Normally, something like that is beyond impossible.

But, Kira is me!

Therefore, my consciousness went into my own head.

Makes sense, right?

Okay, maybe not, but it all worked out and that�fs what matters!

Besides, it was a good experience being stuck in a different head!

Well, as long as you can withstand the torrent of information.

I�fm used to that sort of thing, so it was no problem for me.

However, Kira was not - she couldn�ft take it and snapped completely!

I wanted to calm her down, but communication was impossible.

I couldn�ft use [Telepathy] on myself after all.

All I could do was gently nudge Kira towards the cra- landing site.

There was no doubt Kira would arrive safely.

Kira is actually pretty amazing you know!

Even though it should have been impossible, Kira somehow used [Telepathy] and [Telekinesis] along the way!

They were really strong, too!

Almost as strong as mine!

Ah, maybe she ended up borrowing mine?

That makes sense since she seemed to be using them reflexively.

I mean, she flung people and creatures away without a single trace of grace or control.

Even though it was unfocused raw power, it was still enough!

Anything and everything that stood in Kira�fs way got flung into the air!

In the end, Kira arrived here without suffering a single scratch!

And when Nano led Kira to me, I could finally jump back into my original head.

I was afraid to do it before.

I had no idea if my body survived or if my head was still intact!

Wandering around aimlessly like a ghost was seriously terrifying!

But, once we got back here, I felt something tugging on me, calling me back into my own head.

I focused really hard on that sensation and boom - I woke up!

How did I jump between heads?

No idea!

I just tried my best!

Worrying about it is no use.

I kind of want to ask Nano about it, but doing that right now is a bad idea.

Nano is busy learning the new words directly from my head right now.

That�fs why Nano is a bit quiet.

Like this, all three of us will be able to talk!

Ah, but Kira can�ft see nor hear Nano...

Well, Nano will find a way to solve that problem.

Nano always finds away.

However, I still have to make amends.

I made Kira panic earlier, causing a lot of trouble and stress.

I�fm sure she�fs still scared out of her wits about what happened.

The problem is I have no idea what�fs going on either.

But what I do know is that the first thing I need to do is apologize!

Guh... it�fs surprisingly scary.

I�fve never had to apologize to someone before!

Somehow I�fd rather be fighting Golimonian Mercenaries than face my mistakes!

But I have to get through this if I want to get along with Kira.

And I definitely want to do that!

�g*Cough*�h (Ellie)

Kira looks at me with a questioning face.

Okay, now that I have her attention, it�fs time to assume the position!

Kneeling down, bend forward, palms on the floor, head touching the ground.

Behold, the fruits of my training, the legendary dogeza!

"Why? What is this, suddenly?" (Kira)

Kira gets shocked.

Kira's eyes start swimming.

Did I fail?

I think I failed.

"S-S-Sorry, b-but I don't even know you so t-t-that..." (Kira)

Kira's stuttering for some reason.

Yep, I failed.

Self introductions should come first.

I sit back in kneeling position and introduce myself.

"..." (Ellie)

Crap, words don't come out!

It's my first conversation with a real person in a long time!

I talk with Nano all the time, but that doesn�ft count since Nano isn�ft a person!

Ah right, I have to get used the new words!

Let�fs see, to begin with-

"H-Hello Kira." (Ellie)

Alright, words came out!

It�fs a simple greeting, but something crucial when initiating conversations!

�gKira? Who? Me?�h (Kira)

�gYes. I call you Kira. Is okay?�h (Ellie)

My speech is a bit stiff, but I'm maintaining eye contact

Eye contact and a smile are crucial communication tools!

�gY-yes. Sure. It�fs fine�c�h (Kira)

Phase one complete!

Since Kira accepted the nickname I picked, it means we are now officially friends!

Right, time to give my own name!

"I�fm Ellie." (Ellie)

This is the name Nano gave me.

I don�ft even remember my real name, but that doesn�ft matter.

A blade by any other name would still cut through bone just as well.

It�fs a simple fact.

Besides, this name is a precious gift from my first friend!

Of course I�fll want my second friend to use it!

"I survived thanks to Kira." (Ellie)

Without a doubt I would probably not wake up if not for Kira.

"I also caused Kira trouble." (Ellie)

The rampaging [Telekinesis] and [Telepathy] Kira had to endure were clearly my fault.

Kira was completely surprised by them, so it�fs clear this was the first time Kira had experienced something like
that.
"Therefore, please accept this." (Ellie)

I resume the legendary dogeza!

It�fs the highest form of apology Nano taught me!

And Nano�fs teachings are never wrong!

"Eh? EEEEH? But we're both girls! We barely met each other!" (Kira)

What's that reaction?

Does that matter?

Not good.

I�fm lacking intelligence.

Maybe it�fs some form of cultural thing?

"Is there a problem?" (Ellie)

I raise my head and ask in a calm voice.

"W-W-Well, that is..." (Kira)

Ah, Kira went silent and started fidgeting.

Maybe she�fs just unused to receiving apologies?

No, I�fve never received one either.

Or maybe she bugged out?

Can people get bugs?

Nano used to get a lot of those.

Ah, but Nano isn't a person.

This silence is getting us nowhere, so let�fs confirm I�fm not doing something wrong!

"There is no problem, right?" (Ellie)

"No... I guess not, but... Y-You really don't mind?" (Kira)

"Of course not. I'm taking responsibility for my actions." (Ellie)

Kira�fs fidgeting stopped and she stopped averting her gaze.

Is it me or are her ears getting a bit red?

Actually, this is a good chance for another attempt!

"Then-" (Ellie)

Let's dogeza once more with all my might while I have Kira�fs undivided attention!
Fufufu, it was the correct decision to practice this.

Not everyone can pull of a flawless triple dogeza combo!

I want to get along with myself, so please accept my apology, me!

"... Ellie, huh?" (Kira)

Kira became quiet for a while.

But, I don't break the dogeza.

Nano says you�fre out after the third strike.

Therefore, this is my last stand!

�gThis whole day was strange. This is clearly abnormal, yet I can't deny you. No matter how many times I consider
it, it�fs like I don�ft even consider rejecting you a possibility.�h (Kira)

I have no idea what Kira�fs talking about.

But, if it�fs not a rejection�c then!

�gHowever, let�fs decide this is a good thing. I�fve had enough of being alone. I have no idea who you are,
where you come from or what�fs going on, but my gut is telling me it�fll work out. An adventurer should always
trust their gut feelings! Besides, it�fs your own fault if you think about incomprehensible things too deeply!�h
(Kira)

Wow!

Such great words!

To think Kira was a great person equal to Nano!

Ah, but Nano isn't a person.

"I don't know what will happen in the future, but right now-" (Kira)

Kira gently grabs my head with both hands.

I allow her to pull me into an embrace, my face coming to rest in her cleavage!

As expected, it�fs quite soft!

And this overwhelming warmth and sense of security...

I can get used to this.

"I accept." (Kira)

Ohh!

My sincere apology was accepted!

It was a tough battle, but as usual preparations were key.

Ahhh, I feel so relieved.

It�fs like a massive weight has been lifted from my shoulders!

All that�fs left is the almost overwhelming feeling of my head being surrounded by warm softness...

Hmm?

Kira hasn�ft spoken or moved for a while now.

I open the eyes that had closed instinctively and look up at her face.

"Zzzzzz�c. " (Kira)

Kira's fallen asleep while sitting down!

To fall asleep in this situation, what fearsome skill!

Nano is still busy, so this is actually a very good idea!

"Good night, Kira." (Ellie)

I whisper gently at her, her mouth curling into a small smile as a result.

Hehehe, as expected, Kira is really pretty when she smiles!

It�fs almost like she�fs sparkling, how mysterious!

Chapter 6 - Imaginary friends are great, but introducing them to people
is awkward - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

Hmm�c Huhuhu�c This is nice�c

Huh? What�fs with this incredibly warm thing that�fs pinning me down? I open my eyes and look around. I see, I
fell asleep with Ellie in my arms�c

This is the first time something like this has ever happened to me! I had no idea sharing a bed with someone was this
comfortable! I�fve been missing out! Ah, but then again I don�ft really trust other people easily�c

Ellie is different though. I felt an instant closeness to her that I�fve never felt before. Even though we just met, it
feels like I�fve known her my whole life. It doesn�ft make a lot of sense, but I�fm not going to let that stop me!

"Nyaaa, mnyaaa" (Ellie)

Her voice leaks out as she nuzzles slightly into my chest. I see, she�fs still sleeping. She looks so peaceful... Well,
my breasts are pretty soft, if I do say so myself, so they must feel really comfortable.

Hmm? Shouldn�ft I be more embarrassed about this? I usually electrocute anyone stupid enough to try and fondle
me, so why is it I don�ft seem to mind Ellie doing it? Ah, it�fs the intention, isn�ft it? All those men were simply
thinking with their lower halves, while Ellie is just looking for companionship! Alright, I�fll let her snuggle up
with me as much as she wants!

This decision has nothing to do with the fact that I can�ft bring myself to wake her up. This and that are completely
unrelated.

The blissed-out face she�fs making is likewise unrelated! So what if it�fs so unbearably cute! Kyaa! I can�ft
stand it! I had no idea I was capable of making such an expression! It�fs my own face, yet she looks much cuter
than I do! Is it the shoulder-length blue hair? It may be the hair.

Yes, it�fs my face. So what if yesterday was completely absurd? I�fm already past that. That was then, this is
now.

Today, I am a stronger person.

Today, I will not make another pathetic scene like I did yesterday.

Today, I will properly hear out her story and take it all in stride.

�gHunnmmm�c�h (Ellie)

Oh? She�fs stirring, isn�ft she? Alright, let�fs wake her up appropriately! I gently wrap my hands around her
back in a loose hug and call out to her.

�gGood morning, Ellie!�h (Kira)

Her eyes snap open and she jerks a bit, rocking the bed a little. She looks panicked for a second, but that disappears
the instant she sees me.

�gAh! Kira! You�fre still here!�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu, where else would I be, silly?�h (Kira)

�g... You�fre not going anywhere, right?�h (Ellie)

Please don�ft stare at me with that pleading look!

�gNope! I�fll be right here. We still have to get to know each other, yes?�h (Kira)

�gYes! That�fs right! Thank you so much for not leaving me behind!�h (Ellie)

She rubs her face up and down against my chest in joy. Okay, that�fs starting to get a bit disturbing, not to mention
it�fs beginning to hurt a little...

�gAh! Sorry! I was just- I didn�ft mean to-�h (Ellie)

She pulls away while making excuses. I didn�ft really say anything though, right?

�gEllie. Are you reading my thoughts again?�h (Kira)

�g... Yes. I�fm sorry. It�fs a habit�c I don�ft feel right if I shut it off�c It�fs like walking around with my
eyes closed.�h (Ellie)

�gI see�c There must be something we can do about this, though.�h (Kira)

�gNano? Oh! Great idea! Yes, let�fs do that!�h (Ellie)

�gHuh?�h (Kira)

�gNano said there�fs a really easy way!�h (Ellie)

�g... Who�fs Nano?�h (Kira)

�gMy friend! You can�ft see or hear Nano right now, but- Oh! There it comes!�h (Ellie)

She points to the edge of the bed. The white spider-like thing from yesterday is approaching with an eerie gait
that�fs almost like a glide. There�fs a small box on its back.

�gCome Kira, lay down for a second.�h (Ellie)

She sits up and pats her lap. I guess�c I should put my head there?

�gOkay�c�h (Kira)

I lie down on her lap as she takes the box from the spider-thing.

"Please stand still." (Ellie)

She turns my head to the side, facing her stomach. I can�ft see anything but the worn out and blood-soaked clothes
she had yesterday. I feel her playing with my right ear for a bit�c It feels weird but I can�ft say I hate it.

"Ow!" (Kira)

A sharp pain shoots through it! I reflexively jolt away from her while clutching it! Huh? The pain is already gone?

"All done." (Ellie)

"What was that? What did you do?" (Kira)

"I just attached one of these." (Ellie)

She points to her own ear. I didn't notice before but she's wearing a silver-colored ear cuff. My fingers tell me a
similar-looking cuff was just put on mine. It�fs attached at the base and snugly wraps around to the top of it. How
strange, I didn�ft think getting my ears pierced would be this�c painless. There�fs also no discomfort, like it�fs
a part of my body.

{Ahh, testing, testing, is this thing on? Can you hear me?}

�g...�h (Kira)

I hear a disembodied voice. The tone is oddly neutral. I seriously can't tell if it's a man or a woman, old or young.
Also the way it speaks is a bit�c uncanny. Like something is trying its best to sound human.

{Hmm, no good? Ellie, I think we failed.}

�gKira, I think something went wrong. Can you come back here for a minute?�h (Ellie)

Ellie pats her lap again.

�gOh, sorry! I was just surprised! I can certainly hear�c someone?�h (Kira)

I look around, but there�fs nobody around except me, Ellie and that spider-thing.

�gIt worked on the first try!? As expected of Nano!�h (Ellie)

{That was a surprise. It�fs my first time trying this with anyone other than Ellie.}

�gSo�c you�fre Nano?�h (Kira)

{Oops, that�fs my bad. Sorry miss Kira, I got carried away a bit. I am indeed Nano.}

�gOh thank goodness! For a moment I thought the person Ellie was talking to wasn�ft real!�h (Kira)

{Well, you were half right. I�fm not really a person you see.}

�g... Okay?�h (Kira)

{Hmm, I guess explanations are in order. However, this language doesn�ft seem to have the right words. Well,
basically I�fm something like Ellie�fs guardian - I watch over her and make sure she�fs safe.}

Okay, so this Nano is an ally to Ellie. I guess that�fs good enough for now.

�gAnd the thing on my ear?�h (Kira)

{It lets me talk to you. The material also wards off Ellie�fs mind reading. I agree with you by the way - the mind is
a very private thing, but Ellie doesn�ft feel safe without doing it all the time so please forgive her for it. Ah, you
can also use the ear cuff it to talk with Ellie if you�fre too far apart.}

�gReally?! If that�fs true then isn�ft this really convenient!? I�fve never heard of magic like this!�h (Kira)

{Well, it probably just looks like magic, but it�fs not quite right.}

�gHmm�c You have a point. I don�ft feel any mana flowing through it.�h (Kira)

{Excuse me, mana?}

�gYes, mana. You know, the thing that powers magic tools and spells?�h (Kira)

{Uhm�c care to show me?}

�gI would but�c where are you?�h (Kira)

{Ah, don�ft worry about that, just show it to Ellie.}

�gOkay. Here, watch.�h (Kira)

I hold out my palm and focus my mana gathering in my fingertips.

*Snap*

*Fwoosh*

I snap my fingers and a plume of flame gushes out from them before disappearing into nothing a moment later.

�gWow! That was amazing! How did you do that?!�h (Ellie)

�gIt�fs just raw mana being formed into a flame. I�fd show you more, but I lost my staff earlier.�h (Kira)

I really should find a replacement soon�c

{Fascinating. It completely appeared out of nowhere! So magic is real here!}

�g... I�fve been meaning to ask, but where did you two come from?�h (Kira)

{Hmm, another world, basically?}

�gOkay, makes sense.�h (Kira)

{Really now? How come?}

�gThere are stories of travelers from other worlds. It�fs not common, but it�fs not unheard of either. Besides,
you literally fell from the sky. It would be more suspicious if you told me you weren�ft from another world, to be
honest.�h (Kira)

{I see. Well, that�fs good. Wouldn�ft want to freak people out too much. Still, where we come from we don�ft
have the thing called magic, but the things we brought with us probably seem like it to someone from this world.}

�gSo it�fs something like Star Magic, huh?�h (Kira)

{Oh! That�fs a very nice way of putting it, miss Kira! Yes, Star Magic. That works!}

That was a joke. Please don't casually confirm my imagination as reality.

�gSo back to the topic at hand�c Nano, who or what are you, exactly?�h (Kira)

{That's a very difficult question, miss Kira.}

Mmmhm. Somehow I think I can figure it out though.

�gMind if I make a guess?�h (Kira)

{Be my guest.}

�gSo, I can�ft see you, and these cuffs are the only way I can hear you. So you probably don�ft have an actual
body. Yet you also seem to be connected to Ellie. Just now, you saw my magic through her eyes, yes?�h (Kira)

{Hoho! Very good, miss Kira! What else you got?}

�gLet�fs see�c I�fm guessing you made some sort of deal with her. Or she released you. Well, it�fs some
circumstances that I won�ft pry into, but you have a cooperative relationship. She acts as your eyes and ears and
you look after her with advice and knowledge in return. Normally something like that would be impossible, but
you�fre from another world so anything goes. Where you come from, this sort of thing is probably nothing special
since you have this so-called [Star Magic] to rely on. How am I doing so far?�h (Kira)

{Miss Kira. Those guesses of yours were so spot on that it�fs honestly a bit scary! Are you sure you�fre not a
mind reader, too?}

�gFufufu. Thinking up these outlandish and impossible scenarios is child�fs play for a veteran adventurer like
myself! You�fll never make it in my line of work if do silly things like minding the small stuff!�h (Kira)

{Wow! You were right, Ellie. Miss Kira really is amazing.}

�gRight? Right? It�fs the first time I�fve met someone as great as Nano!�h (Ellie)

�gHuhuhuhu, don�ft underestimate an adventurer�fs ability to ignore common sense! Ah, I do have one question
I�fm not sure about though.�h (Kira)

{What is it, miss Kira?}

�gAlso, can you drop the �emiss�f ? It�fs too formal! For the record, my full name is Kiressara mil Quasse. I
don�ft mind if you call me Kira for short, though.�h (Kira)

Somehow that nickname already stuck, huh? Well, it�fs short, sweet and a lot more polite than the most of the
things people call me...

{I understand. Once again, it is a pleasure to meet you Kira. Now, your question?}

�gRight. Where did this bed come from? I�fm pretty sure we fell asleep on the ground.�h (Kira)

{Oh! That was my doing. This little guy on your left and his friends carried you over here while you were asleep.}

The white spider-like thing waves its claw-like limbs at me. There�fs more like it, huh?

�g... But why?�h (Kira)

{It�fs not befitting to have a young lady sleep on the floor like that. Let alone two of them.}

�gYou have a point there. Thank you for looking after us.�h (Kira)

Despite being a no-body, Nano still knows how to look after people, huh?

{You�fre very welcome.}

AN: I won't be putting Nano's name after its dialogue. Laziness had very little to do with this decision.
Chapter 7 - People who only focus on their livelihood are impossible to
live with - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gSo�c What did you two plan on doing after coming here anyway?�h (Kira)

�gUhm�c it was kind of an accident, so we don�ft have anything like plans.�h (Ellie)

�gOh, so it wasn�ft on purpose�c Will you be looking for a way back?�h (Kira)

�gNo! Definitely not! The place we left was horrible! It didn�ft have Kira!�h (Ellie)

�gAw, that�fs sweet of you to say.�h (Kira)

{She�fs not just saying that. We were targeted by some very bad people. Literally the worst kind. So while it may
not have been on purpose, coming here was just about the best thing that could have happened to us.}

�gYeah! That old fart has no way of reaching us over here! He probably thinks his goons wiped us out!�h (Ellie)

�gI see... �h (Kira)

I already expected something like this. The poor girl acts like she had not seen a single drop of kindness before
coming here. If it wasn�ft for Nano supporting her, she may have completely shut herself off from the world...

�gAlright. Then, I can show you into town if you want.�h (Kira)

Urgh�c The City Guard probably have it out for me again�c Well, I�fll deal with that like I always do.

{The thing is, we really shouldn�ft leave this place behind.}

�gHuh?�h (Ellie)

�gWhy not? Isn�ft it just a pile of scrap?�h (Kira)

{No. Not exactly. It was carrying a wide range of objects. Some beautiful, some valuable. Many of them dangerous.
It would be very bad if someone stole and misused them.}

�gHow bad?�h (Kira)

{Potentially end-of-the-world bad.}

�gThat sounds bad.�h (Kira)

{It�fs pretty bad.}

�gI suppose you can�ft just get rid of these things?�h (Kira)

{It would be impossible right now. Trying to do that is way too dangerous. No matter what, we have to keep a close
eye on them. It�fs our responsibility for bringing these dangerous things to your world.}

�gBut�c we�fre in the middle of the Eagle forest! We can�ft just live out here in the wilderness!�h (Kira)

{Why not?}

�gThere�fs too many monsters roaming around! Trolls, giant wolves, goblins, orcs- Wait, shouldn�ft have they
attacked this place by now?�h (Kira)

It�fs been almost a day since this steel brick landed here. It might have scared them off for a little while, but
there�fs no way they�fd forgive us for encroaching on their territory!

{Oh so that�fs what those were! A good number of creatures I have never seen before encroached on us, but I took
care of them with the drones.}

�gDrones? You mean those white spider-like things? What are they anyway? They don�ft look like any living
thing I�fve ever seen or heard about.�h (Kira)

There�fs a brief moment of silence. Nano is probably looking for the right words again.

{They�fre dolls that move on their own, but only when I tell them to. They�fre not alive and are made of metal and
wire rather than flesh and bone.}

�gSo�c golems?�h (Kira)

Magical constructs, the specialty of dwarves. Usually made of stone, sometimes metal. I don�ft feel any mana
coursing through these �edrones�f though so I don�ft think that�fs quite right.

{If that�fs what it sounds like to you, then that�fs what we�fll call them for now.}

�gFair enough. So are they really that strong?�h (Kira)

{Oh yes. They�fre made for construction and mining operations so their shells are quite resistant to impacts. And
their tools can double as weapons in a pinch. They�fre more than enough to deal with some dumb beasts, at least.}

�gWait, they were meant for construction? Then are you going to use them to build a house!?�h (Kira)

{A house? That�fs thinking too small! Actually, now�fs a good time to start as any! Please step outside for a
second while I set things up!}

***

�gWell�c the issue of shelter is certainly no longer an issue�c�h (Kira)

�gHow is that? Amazing right?! Nano is really good at controlling those drones!�h (Ellie)

�gI�fll say! To see hundreds of beings move together in unison like this�c It�fs indescribable!�h (Kira)

I was honestly awestruck. The giant metal tomb-like thing was swarmed by hundreds of these shiny drones, and
gradually disappeared under a whirlwind of sparks, grinding and screeching! It wasn�ft just that, either! The
surrounding area was flattened, lumber was harvested, any usable stones were processed and the rest were cleared
out.

It�fs not even sunset yet and the scenery has changed completely! The sight of that giant hole-covered piece of
scrap that had carved a deep trench in the ground is nowhere to be found! What stood in its place could only be
described as a fortress!

The wreck was completely dismantled into metal sheets and rebuilt as a single twenty-meter tall tower, surrounded
by a three-meter tall metal fence. No, calling it a wall would be far more accurate. The only gripe I have is that since
everything was built out of salvaged dark gray metal, it didn�ft look very homely. Actually, it looks rather sinister
and ominous if I have to be honest.

The tower itself was a slightly irregular shape, with a few spires jutting out from it. When I asked Nano about why
he chose a tower, he gave me a surprising answer.
{Kira is a mage, right? Any self-respecting wizard needs a tower!}

I can�ft really disagree with that logic. A mage secluded in a tower somewhere in the wilderness - it had a really
romantic appeal to it! Inside it, there was a ground floor, four floors above and two basement levels underground! I
still have no idea what to do with all this space! Nano said that our bedroom would have its own bathroom! I�fm so
excited!

Ah, he did ask that I stay out of the basement levels though. Apparently one of those would be used to store all of
the items and boxes they brought with them, while the other one would be Nano�fs workshop. One of the things
they brought along was something Nano called a Nano-forge. If it�fs named after Nano, then there�fs no doubt it
can produce some interesting things!

In fact, Nano has already furnished the place with carpets, beds, chairs, tables, cutlery and all sorts of other things!
The wooden furniture he carved out of the harvested lumber is especially charming! If he keeps adding to it, this
place will become a luxurious palace in its own right!

Then came the outside. The 3-meter tall and 300-meter long metal wall established a perimeter around the place,
securing a rather significant plot of land! I had requested some space to grow vegetables and herbs, but this is a bit
too much space! There�fs almost 2 acres of soil to work with!

{So. Your thoughts?}

�gThis is amazing! Both the speed and quality you work at is mind-boggling! If it�fs like this, then we can easily
live out here! Both Nano and those drones are way too absurd!�h (Kira)

Honestly, how come they�fre so skilled even though they�fre just knock-off golems!?

{Haha! I will take that as praise! Well, the drones are useful but there are some bad news. They�fll run out of fuel
in about eight days and we won�ft be able to rely on them. There are ways to recharge them, but it won�ft be
enough to adequately protect this place.}

�gAck! But if they�fre not around�c Those walls won�ft be enough!�h (Kira)

Right now we�fre fine since the drones are patrolling the area, but if they stop then the monsters are sure to come
after us! Simple walls will not keep them at bay for long, no matter how sturdy!

{See, that�fs where I�fm hoping you can help us out. You can use magic, right? Can you produce lightning out of
nothing?}

�gIt�fs not really out of nothing. It takes mana you know.�h (Kira)

{Right, but it�fs possible, yes?}

�gIt is indeed. In fact, the [Thunder] series of spells happen to be a specialty of mine! The problem is I really need
a staff to cast spells.�h (Kira)

{Huh? But you used magic just fine earlier to produce clean drinking water, right?}

�gI did, but that�fs not a spell. It�fs just unrefined magic. I know you want lightning, but with only my bare
hands I can only do this much.�h (Kira)

*Bdztztzt*

I let a small arc of electricity shoot out from my index finger. It�fs so weak the most you can hope to do is jolt
someone and give them a fright. Producing a burst of flame to start a campfire or a stream of water to satiate thirst is
the limit of my usefulness right now.
{I see. I think I might be able to do something about it, but can you answer a few questions first?}

�gSure, go right ahead!�h (Kira)

{Now, this thing called mana. You mentioned it�fs consumed whenever magic is used, but does it recharge?}

�gIt does, albeit rather slowly. A good night�fs rest usually restores it back to full, though.�h (Kira)

{And how much is 'full' exactly?}

�gHard to say. We haven�ft found a way to measure someone�fs mana pool precisely. Ah, a mana pool is what
we call a person�fs capacity to store mana. While everyone is born with it, most people don�ft have a large
enough mana pool to be full-time mages. You can still train it as if it were a muscle so it gets stronger and larger, but
how much growth you experience depends on how much you started with.�h (Kira)

{Then how do you know if someone has enough to be a mage?}

�gThere are some magic tools that can tell if you have enough to be a mage, but they�fre rather vague.
Incidentally, my own mana pool is rather scary. I don�ft mean to brag, but it�fs practically overflowing! Not even
my teachers could cast as many spells as me in a single day!�h (Kira)

{Oh now that sounds reliable! How interesting! I�fd like to ask more about these magic tools later, but for now can
you tell me why staves are so important?}

�gA staff is a mana-focusing tool. There are also other types of focusing tools, but the staff offers the most output
and control. And you need a focusing tool to mold the mana into a shape, which is then used to invoke a spell. It�fs
like when a blacksmith is turning an iron ingot into a sword.�h (Kira)

{The mage is the smith, the mana is the ingot and the staff is the hammer. I see. That makes it much easier to
understand.}

He completed the metaphor I was taught before I could even finish it!

�gYou catch on fast, don�ft you?�h (Kira)

{Dealing with information is one of my strong points and hearing you explain things like this is really helpful. The
concept of magic goes against a lot of the knowledge I have from our old world, so accepting its existence
completely will take some work.}

�gReally? But Ellie does magic, right?�h (Kira)

{It�fs not really magic though. The [Star Magic] we spoke about simply looks like it, but it�fs a completely
different thing. It comes from the power of her mind - mana plays no factor in it.}

�g... I see. Where is Ellie, anyway?�h (Kira)

{She�fs helping dismantle some of the things the drones hunted. The leather and meat will be useful, right?}

�gRight. Good call�c Can she handle that sort of nasty work, though?�h (Kira)

{Well, she�fs not exactly a stranger to using a knife. Don�ft you worry about her, she�fs highly-trained and her
body is faster, stronger and more agile than your average human. Although some would argue she�fs not really
human.}

Strange�c Somehow I felt a pang of regret in that voice. Even though it was a stiff monotone.

�gIs that why she has that odd hair color and eyes?�h (Kira)
{... Yes.}

That delay is a bit worrying. This is obviously a touchy subject, so I won�ft pry into it too much. I�fm sure Ellie
and Nano will let me know when they are ready.

{Speaking of which, were your eyes always that color?}

�gNo�c They used to be blue, but one of them turned red after you two arrived.�h (Kira)

I was a bit shocked when I finally saw my reflection in a broken piece of glass.

{I thought so. You know Ellie had two red eyes before we came here?}

�gSo we traded eye colors? Well, that�fs hardly the strangest thing that happened to me that day.�h (Kira)

{That�fs an understatement. It�fs the same situation for us. In the end both your eyes are in good health so it�fs
pointless to worry about things we don�ft know about.}

�gMy thought exactly! Probably some odd side effect. She did say she, uh, hitched a ride inside my head�c�h
(Kira)

It seems all the odd sensations I experienced yesterday were completely a side effect of that. The implications are a
bit worrying, but we can�ft do anything about it right now so it�fs my loss if I think to deeply about it.

{Hey, I have no idea what happened either. I�fm just glad she�fs safe.}

�gYeah�c�h (Kira)

It wasn�ft exactly a bad thing. It seems she somehow picked up our language from my head and then Nano got it
from hers. Thanks to that, we were all able to get along splendidly. And it did bring us together�c

Right, I�fve decided it�fs actually a good thing!

�gSorry, we got a little sidetracked. Anything else you want to know about magic?�h (Kira)

{Yes, about the materials, does it matter? Or rather, how does it matter?}

�gWell, certain materials just handle mana better. Generally they�fre separated into wood and metal, although
metal staves are a bit impractical since they�fre too heavy. Different people work better with different tools. For
example, I work best with wooden staves.�h (Kira)

{What sort of wood?}

�gTreant Heartwood is the best type, but it�fs rare. Elven made ones are pretty good too. In general the material
has to be able to hold mana and be durable enough to not break apart under the pressure of the mana you put into the
staff.�h (Kira)

Well, I end up overdoing it and break them anyway...

{I see, so toughness is important. And wood, plants, fiber�c Alright, then about the shape�c}

***

{I see. I think I get it.}

We talked for almost 30 minutes. Nano asked many questions, but I had all the answers! I was always unmatched in
magical theory back in the Magic Academy you know! I spent a lot of time studying and practicing on my own, so
that much is a given.

�gSo do you think you can make one?�h (Kira)

That was the whole point of this little discussion. Nano is obviously good at making things as long as he knows what
to do, so I have some expectations!

{Yes. I believe so. I�fll just need Ellie to help out in the basement a bit.}

�gI thought there�fs only dangerous things down there though!�h (Kira)

{Not all of them. We brought a whole lot of different things with us.}

�gOh, you mean in those metal boxes I saw yesterday? The ones that were scattered all over the place from the
crash?�h (Kira)

{Landing.}

�gSorry?�h (Kira)

{It was a landing.}

�gHow do you figure?�h (Kira)

{Ellie walked away from it.}

�g...�h (Kira)

{But yes, those. And yes, some of those do contain very dangerous items. So I�fm going to have to ask you again to
keep out of the basement. Okay, Kira?}

�gUhm. I�fve been worried about this for a while now, but those things won�ft suddenly explode for no reason,
right?�h (Kira)

{Haha. No! Of course not! Highly unlikely. Probably not. Well, there�fs a good chance it�fll be fine.}

"Hey. HEY! It won�ft explode, right?!" (Kira)

{I'm just teasing you, it's fine, it's fine, no problems.}

That tone of yours isn't very reassuring, though!

Chapter 8 - A bad craftsman blames his tools, which is troublesome for
the good craftsman with legitimately bad tools - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Kira PoV <

�gHey Kira! Here, this is from me and Nano!�h (Ellie)

Ellie smiled pleasantly at me while presenting me with a staff.

�gWow, already? It�fs barely been fifteen minutes!�h (Kira)

{That�fs mostly because you gave me so much information earlier. I followed what you said almost exactly.}

Admittedly, I only knew the theory and never crafted a staff for myself before, but did Nano actually do a proper
job?! No! Bad Kiressara! This is Nano and Ellie�fs goodwill so you need to gratefully accept it!

�gI see. Thank you very much.�h (Kira)

I take the staff from Ellie�fs hands and curiously inspect it. It�fs got a perfectly straight shaft. Moving it around I
see the sun reflecting off the shiny surface. Looking at it closely, I can see a very fine checkered pattern, almost like
a woven basket. Yet the surface is completely smooth! It�fs surprisingly pleasant to hold!

�gWow�c It looks impressive!�h (Kira)

The staff head is in the figure of a shape with eight faces, like two small pyramids glued together. It�fs glistening
and somewhat transparent, almost like a black diamond! I give the staff a few swings.

�gOhh! It�fs so light! Are you sure this is wood?!�h (Kira)

{It�fs not exactly wood, but it should be similar on the inside. It�fs a material from our world called <<carbon
nanofiber reinforced polymer>>.}

�g... What? Oh, let me guess - no words for it?�h (Kira)

{That�fs right. Well, let�fs call it Black Sap for the moment.}

�gKira! I want to see Kira�fs magic!�h (Ellie)

�gAh, right. Then, let me start off with something small.�h (Kira)

I turn away from Ellie and focus my attention on a part of the wall. It�fs made of metal so a little flame won�ft do
much harm!

�g-- [Firebolt]�h (Kira)

A fist sized ball of flame shoots out of the staff in the direction I�fm pointing it in! It impacts against the wall with
a small hissing noise!

�gWow! It came out! It really came out!�h (Ellie)

�c

Wasn�ft that a little too easy? Usually you feel a bit of resistance when putting mana into a staff, but this time it
flowed into it like throwing water on dry sand!
�g-- [Firebolt] -- [Firebolt] -- [Firebolt]�h (Kira)

Even a triple consecutive cast flowed out so smoothly!

�gMore! Kira! Do more!�h (Ellie)

Ellie jumps up and down excitedly. I don�ft think I�fve ever seen anyone this happy about basic-level magic.
Alright, time to show off a bit!

�g---- [High Fireball]�h (Kira)

A noticeably larger mass of flame was launched this time. As expected, it flowed out easily! It�fs moving
considerably slower than the [Firebolt] but that much is expected!

*FAHWOOSH*

It expanded into a giant torrent of flames when it hit the wall! Oh no! I think I overdid it! No, wait, the metal is
completely fine... Well, that�fs good. It�fs not like I was expecting to melt that thing with a single spell. It
survived much worse on the way down yesterday!

�gStand back Ellie. I�fm going to run wild a bit!�h (Kira)

�gOkay!�h (Ellie)

She jumps backwards a bit. That should be good enough. I grip the staff a bit tighter and lick my lips!

�g------ [High Waterspout]�h (Kira)

A column of water burst out from the ground like a geyser. This quantity is good! Next is-

�g----- [Freeze]�h (Kira)

Now it�fs a column of ice. There are no problems altering a spell in progress either!

�g---- [Wind Blade]�h (Kira)

An invisible blade strikes the ice, leaving a shallow cut. As expected, Wind magic isn�ft very good against hard
targets, but the cut is nice and clean, looks like there�fs no issues with control!

�g----- [High Beam]�h (Kira)

A white ray of light shoots out from my staff, punching a hole through the ice column. Power is there too! The pillar
of ice is starting to tip over as expected.

�g---- [Fissure]�h (Kira)

I strike the staff head into the ground while releasing the spell.

*RRUMBLE*

The dirt splits open while shaking, creating a small chasm according to my mental image. The pillar of ice crashes
magnificently into it with a loud noise.

�g---- [Fissure]�h (Kira)

Now for the counter spell! The chasm closes itself around the ice, crushing and crunching it until all that�fs left is
uneven ground with shards of ice sticking out of it. I triumphantly return my staff to its upright position and strike a
small pose.
�gFufufu. I could get used to this.�h (Kira)

�g*Sob* Kira�c *Sniffle*�h (Ellie)

�gHuh? Ellie!? What�fs wrong?�h (Kira)

�gYou were *Sniffle* too cool! *Sob* The tears won�ft stop! *Sniffle* Thank you so much for showing me this!
*Sniffle* �h(Ellie)

Wow! Okay. To be moved to tears�c was it really that great? Her reaction is like a little kid�fs! Ah, no, that�fs
normal since it�fs her first time seeing magic, isn�ft it?

{So I take it the staff is satisfactory?}

�gIt�fs fantastic! It�fs hard to believe you made this on your first try! It�fs almost as smooth to use as one made
out of Treant Heartwood!�h (Kira)

Ah, that takes me back to my days in the Magic Academy! One of the instructors let me try out his staff once as a
special reward! It was almost fun to use magic with it! Unfortunately I got a little too into it and the staff head
cracked�c The built-up mana then made a shockwave that shattered several windows. The teacher was furious with
me, but I was only twelve so I got off with just a scolding.

Come to think of it, I�fve broken about fifty or so staves since that day, haven�ft I? About half of those were
during my adventuring days. The magic shop owner refused to give me any discounts on staves though! Even
though I was his best customer! What�fs up with that! Doesn�ft he know how much of my income I had to spend
on his wares!?

Hmm, actually�c

�gSay Nano, you can make another one of these easily, right?�h (Kira)

{Indeed. I can make an identical one if you want.}

�gI see. Then you don�ft mind if I try and break this one, right? I�fm curious how much mana it can take before
it bursts.�h (Kira)

{Oh, stress-testing huh? Go right ahead, it�fs only a prototype anyway!}

�gUnderstood!�h (Kira)

I grip the staff with both hands again. Let�fs see�c perhaps try that barrier spell from yesterday? Yes, let�fs do
that!

�g-------- [Grand Barrier]�h (Kira)

The transparent dome appears as expected. It perfectly covers the entire tower. Grand tier spells are perfect for this
since you can pour as much mana into them as you want!

�gAlright. Here. I. GO!�h (Kira)

I start pouring more mana into the spell.

�c

{Kira? Is the-}
�gConcentrating!�h (Kira)

I have to focus! Even though it may break, I should get a feel for how much it can take! And then release the mana
before it bursts the staff!

�c

�c

It�fs still flowing in so easily. I�fm using three times more mana than yesterday, yet it doesn�ft even vibrate
from the strain! Just how tough is this thing?!

�c

�c

Alright, let�fs pick up the pace!

�c

...

�gWoooow!�h (Ellie)

{Would you look at that�c}

I open my eyes and stare at the sky. The transparent barrier has grown large enough to encompass the entire wall.
It�fs more than three times larger and at least five times thicker than the one from yesterday.

�g...�h (Kira)

�gKira? What�fs wrong? It stopped growing?�h (Ellie)

�gI... can�ft�c�h (Kira)

I drop to my knees and lean weakly against the staff. Can this thing really exist? I�fm holding it and yet...

{Is something wrong with the staff?}

�gNo�c I just�c I ran out of mana�c�h (Kira)

This staff took almost all of my mana and it�fs not breaking. Somehow�c I feel like even putting in twice that
amount would not be enough�c

"...uuuu uUWAAAAA!" (Kira)

"Ugeh! Nano! We made her cry!" (Ellie)

{I�fm�c not sure how to respond to this.}

I cry loudly, tears running down my face like a waterfall.

{I know! Ellie, begin Operation There-There!}

"Roger. It's okay Kira, Ellie's h-" (Ellie)

*GLOMP*
I hug Ellie with all my might. I want to hug Nano too! Ah, but Nano isn't a person. But he�fs inside Ellie so I will
just hug her more!

"Dank yuuu! Dank yuu! Im zo habbeeeee!" (Kira)

So this is what it feels like to let out years of anxiety and pain�c I�fm so glad I have a shoulder to cry on for
once�c I don�ft think I can ever repay these two for what they�fve given me.

> Narrator PoV <

Kiressara was born with an abnormally large mana pool. So much so that when the Magic Academy in the capital
caught wind of it and tested her, they accepted her with a special tuition. Excited at this prospect, she went to live
and study in the capital at the age of 10.

She was diligent and studious, a natural talent. A prodigy. That was what they called her initially. The other students
- sons and daughters of noble households - could not bear to watch this filthy commoner oustage them. And then, a
problem revealed itself when it came to putting their studies into practice. Kiressara had too much mana.

For most mages, it was a simple matter to use precise amounts of mana for their spells. Like pouring water out of a
bottle into a small glass, it was no trouble at all. But for Kiressara, the bottle was replaced with a whole tub, while
the glass was still as tiny as ever.

Her output was so high, no staff could contain it. The very first time she tried to chant a basic spell, the wooden staff
split open at the head - the focal point where the mana concentrates. The old, cheap and worn out staves the
Academy had her practice with regularly burst open.

Kiressara became gloomy - she didn�ft know why these things had happened. She assumed the problem was with
her. That she was somehow at fault. The teachers knew the true reason, but they could do nothing about it, but urge
her to focus on control. If it was just that, things might have been better.

But nobles and their kin are ugly creatures. Sensing weakness, they began teasing and bullying Kiressara
incessantly.

�eHow dare this filthy peasant presume themselves above us! We should put them in her place!�f

Such things were said and repeated throughout the Academy. The teachers could do nothing to stop it. Because
nobles were ugly creatures that failed to look at themselves objectively, therefore these troublemakers had the
unconditional support of their powerful parents.

At first, it was just some light teasing. Kiressara brushed it off and focused on her studies.

Then things got violent. The boys would hit her regularly and she would instinctively fight back. She never won,
though. She was left beaten and bruised on a regular basis. The kind old nun that served as a nurse healed her with
magic no matter how many times was needed. It was painful, but Kiressara understood it would pass. Such abuse
merely drove her to keep studying more fervently.

Then came the real problem - the girls. At least with boys, the bullying was to her face and was easily healed. With
the girls it was much more sinister. They shunned her, hid her clothes, messed with her food and made sure she
would have the crappiest, most useless twig of a staff for every practical lesson.

That is what really hurt. For nearly three years Kiressara had shut herself from the outside. The friends she had made
in the first and second year were bullied just like her. Even those that refused to bully her on principle got
mistreated! It was like the gaggle of noble offspring decided she was an eyesore that exists only to be despised!

So Kiressara studied as a means to escape. She endured, determined to show those people that she was not someone
they could push around! But such a day never came. Even after graduation, the forced reputation they had forced on
her seemed to follow her like a dark cloud.

�eFreak�f was what she was now called.

�eCrackhead�f was her new name.

�eOut of control and violent�f was the general opinion.

�eThe face is good, but the head is bad�f was repeated like it was common sense.

The rumors spread out of control. Even after becoming an adventurer and moving back to Runetap, those five years
in the Magic Academy had taken their toll. The cheerful little girl was gone, all that was left was a bitter, high-strung
and short-fused wreck.

She would show them! Those idiots who had everything given to them! Kiressara would attain status and power
with her own hands! First she would become Rank A, then she would use the special privileges that came with it to
climb higher and higher!

After two years, this misguided resentment had warped into something else entirely - a deep distrust of every single
person she ever met. She was either hostile or indifferent to everyone around her. This often put her at odds with
others, which meant the City Guard got involved. Which in turn meant fines and guaranteed her miserly lifestyle
would continue.

Deep down, Kiressara yearned for companionship, yet she blindly rejected everyone without question. She
tormented herself without realizing it. That is, until she met Ellie. The impact of that meeting was so strong that it
broke her out of the daze she was in for nearly six years.

This strange blue-haired girl had undoubtedly gone through a much harsher childhood, but she found joy in the
smallest of things - a plume of flame, a simple spell, a warm meal or a sincere hug. Little by little, Kiressara�fs
closed off heart was readily accepting and trusting another person.

The staff? It was a good weapon. It gave Kiressara something she�fd longed for - the ability to control her magic
without holding back. However, that was not what she was truly grateful for. While it was a magnificent gift, it�fs
the thought that mattered.

The thought that Nano and Ellie would actually support her with all their power. The thought that she could rely on
them for the things she was not able to do. The thought that, much like her magic, she would finally be able to take
control of her life.
Chapter 9 - A change in someone's mood can almost always be
associated with a change in their diet - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I snuggle against something soft while a tender hand brushes my hair.

Such unparalleled comfort and warmth�c it can only be one thing!

�gGood morning, Ellie!�h (Kira)

I�fm greeted by Kira�fs dazzling smile as I wake up.

�gKiraaa! Naaa, naymmmuu.�h (Ellie)

I keep snuggling against Kira�fs peerlessly bouncy chest!

My voice leaks out, but I have no intention of stopping it!

Waking up together really the best!

I don�ft think I�fve ever slept so comfortably before!

�g*Giggles* Stop that! It tickles!�h (Kira)

Oh right, let's not forget!

"Good morning Nano!" (Ellie)

{Good morning you two. Getting along today as well?}

"Fufufu, that's right, good morning Nano." (Kira)

Kira hugs me a bit tighter.

You see, Kira wanted to hug Nano, but Nano isn't a person.

But Nano is always with me.

So, Kira hugs me enough for two people!

I'm not being spoiled though.

Half of it is Nano's share.

"Come on Ellie, let's get breakfast!" (Kira)

"Okay!" (Ellie)

I untangle myself from around Kira and get up from the bed.

It�fs one of the things Nano brought out of the containers from the ship.

Among them were a whole bunch of luxurious items!

Like my pajamas and Kira�fs nightgown!

They�fre really soft and comfy�c

Oh, and the clothes are too, I guess.

I�fm pretty grateful for those, especially since both my and Kira�fs armors were shredded.

***

We head down the stairs after putting on the casual clothes Nano prepared for us.

Just shirts and trousers easy to move around in.

The first floor is where we decided to put our bedroom, though it�fs a bit too wide.

We haven�ft decided what to do with the rest of the above-ground floors yet.

I think Nano got a little excited when making the tower and went overboard.

But Kira says it might come in handy in the future, so it seems it was the right call.

So Nano ended up doing a good thing even while showing off!

Nothing less from my partner!

The ground floor is divided into a living room, dining room and a kitchen!

Nano managed to salvage components and parts from what we had to throw together an actual stove!

As a whole, this tower is incredibly comfortable!

The drones will take care of cleaning, maintenance and can even cook for us!

�gSo, what did you manage to prepare for us today, Nano?�h (Kira)

Kira asks the all-important question as we take a seat at the dining table!

{I�fve gathered a bunch of fruits and berries you described to me, with a side of wild boar bacon.}

�gBacon? I get to enjoy actual meat!?�h (Ellie)

{That�fs right, Ellie! Real, fresh meat!}

�gYes!�h (Ellie)

The last time I had meat was over 4 months ago!

�gSo Ellie. What do you want to do after breakfast?�h (Kira)

�gHmmm, I really should start doing my training�c�h (Ellie)

I promised Nano I�fd keep doing it whenever we had a chance.

It�fs already my third day on this world, so I should stop slacking off!

�gOh!? What kind of training is it?�h (Kira)

�gI perform six sets of kata.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat�fs a kata?�h (Kira)

�gWell�c It�fs hard to explain�c Nano?�h (Ellie)

{A kata is a series of martial art training exercises. The kinds Ellie needs to perform are intended to help control her
powers.}

�gYou said those come from the mind, right? How do those training exercises help?�h (Kira)

{[Star Magic] demands a healthy mind. A healthy mind dwells in a healthy body. A healthy body is forged through
training.}

That�fs how it was!

I had forgotten why I even did those in the first place, I just knew they were important.

Oh well, that�fs why Nano is here - because I forget things!

�gKira should watch me do them after breakfast!�h (Ellie)

�gI�fd love to!�h (Kira)

***

�gHaah, haah, haah. All done.�h (Ellie)

I sit down on the grass to catch my breath.

�gWas it really that exhausting? It just looked like you stretched a bit and then did some weird dance�c�h (Kira)

�gDemands, haah, a lot of, haah, focus!�h (Ellie)

{That�fs right. It may look simple, but you have to do those movements perfectly for it to be effective.
Concentration and precise muscle control are a must!}

�gThat�fs how it was�c I�fm a bit sad it�fs not actually a dance, but those movements were still captivating.
Ellie is surprisingly limber!�h (Kira)

Hehe, I got praised!

{Kira, speaking of which, can you please cast your magic at the tower now?}

�gHmm? Ah, sure. Just let me get my staff.�h (Kira)

Kira goes inside the tower to get the staff Nano made yesterday.

�gNano, you sure this will work?�h (Ellie)

{Positive! I�fve hooked up the energy capacitors to the lightning rod on the roof. Bad news is the ship�fs old
batteries are a bit battered so they won�ft hold the charge for as long as they could. We would need to recharge
them around once a week, regardless of how much power we actually use.}

�gI see. That�fs not too bad considering we don�ft need to worry about fuel with Kira here.�h (Ellie)

If we can harness Kira�fs magical lightning as a power source, we won�ft need a reactor.

Which is good, because we definitely need a new power source ever since said reactor got slightly exploded...
The drones will run out of juice eventually, but we can recharge them from the ship- I mean, the tower�fs power
grid.

If Nano�fs idea works, we will have an easy solution to our energy problem!

Alternatively, we might have to come up with a geothermal or solar solution.

It would depend on what we find in the old fart�fs boxes.

Nano is still going through them, but it has to be done very carefully.

That old fart loves to booby trap his belongings, after all.

�gAlright, I�fm back!�h (Kira)

Kira arrives triumphantly, flaunting the black staff.

Apparently Nano�fs first staff was so good, it brought Kira to tears!

I know the feeling, it was my first time seeing magic yet I was also moved to tears!

�gHere I go! ---- [High Thunder]�h (Kira)

*KRAKAKOOM*

After a small flourish of the staff, a bolt of lightning strikes the tower�fs tallest spire!

It really came from nowhere!

Tendrils of electricity travel across the metal exterior of the tower and disappear into the ground almost instantly!

�g... Did it work?�h (Kira)

{It did! That was perfect! Like this we don�ft need to worry about running out of fuel for the drones! Magic sure is
amazing, isn�ft it?!}

I nod at Nano�fs astute observation.

Somehow, I feel Kira is the truly amazing one though.

It makes me a bit jealous when I think about how much Kira can do alone...

{Oh! Actually, I have another surprise for you two! I�fve repaired Ellie�fs gear and prepared a set for leather
armor for Kira as well!}

***

I put on the gear I was wearing under my EVA suit when we arrived here.

Looks like Nano remodeled it slightly.

On the whole it�fs a bit lighter, but much easier to move around in.

I kind of prefer it that way!

First is a special sneak suit Nano prepared just for me!

It fits snugly around my whole body without causing any discomfort.

A face mask covers my mouth, nose and neck, leaving the rest of my face and head are exposed.

Looks like my old visor was beyond repair, but I shouldn�ft need it on this world.

There are no security drones to interface with, after all!

Next is the breastplate, which is the same as before.

Interlocking armor plates that cover the torso and shield the vitals.

Similar plates cover my wrists, shins, shoulders and thighs.

They won�ft do much if we get attacked by magic, but they�fll easily deflect or absorb all but the heaviest of
impacts.

Not that I plan on getting hit anyway.

The knuckles on my gloves are reinforced with Durasteel studs for CQC.

There's also a utility belt with a few emergency measures on my waist.

My 42 centimeter Tritanium blade is sheathed horizontally on my lower back.

It�fs really heavy, so it disturbs my balance if I keep it on my hip.

There's a number of throwing knives and serrated blades strapped to my boots, thighs and on my belt.

There�fs a few hidden ones in my boots, arm guards and breastplate - just in case.

�gSo, what do you think Kira?�h (Ellie)

I strike a small pose to show off a bit.

�gYou look really dashing in that! What about me? I think Nano did a really good job!�h (Kira)

Kira similarly twirls once to show off the armor Nano prepared during the night.

It�fs made from Troll Leather which Kira claims is good at stopping slashing attacks.

Well, Nano�fs drones have a cutting and welding laser capable of affecting hull plating.

So something like a Troll made of flesh and bone was sliced neatly in half.

It means the leather I got from those corpses was really pristine!

As a result, the combination of mine and Nano�fs hard work is currently protecting Kira!

It makes me oddly happy!

Not that I plan on letting Kira get hit anyway!

The armor set consists of fingerless gloves that go up to the elbow, knee-high boots, leather trousers and a corset-
like chest piece.

There�fs also a short mantle covering Kira�fs shoulders.

A rather simple bright-red linen shirt is visible underneath the corset.

Since the leather parts are a dark gray, it makes Kira�fs shirt and hair really stick out!

Kira says appearances are important for adventurers - they need to look reassuring or the client will have doubts.

�g...�h (Ellie)

And the current Kira looks incredibly cool!

�gEllie�c you�fre drooling�c�h (Kira)

�gWah! *Slurp* Sorry Kira, I couldn�ft take my eyes off you�c�h (Ellie)

�gFufufufu, that makes me really happy. Thank you Ellie!�h (Kira)

I�fve been thinking about this for a while, but Kira is way too amazing.

I don�ft think that word even fits anymore, it�fs way too shallow!

I need to find a new word for it�c

How about �eKiramazing?�f

�gThen, shall we head out?�h (Kira)

�gOut? Ah! Adventuring practice, right?! Alright! Lead the way!�h (Ellie)

Kira has a dream - to become a Rank A adventurer.

Apparently people who climb that high are respected and treated with reverence.

I don�ft need any of that to revere Kira though�c

However, I want to fulfil that wish.

I�fve decided to follow and support Kira without holding back!

Not that I know how to hold back anyway�c

You don�ft survive in the Outer Rim systems as long as I have by doing silly things like holding back.
Chapter 10 - The difference between work and play is all in the mind -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I run at top speed through the forest.

Leaping from branch to trunk to rock to ground to branch to ground to tree to rock to ground!

It�fs only moving my body around, but the sensation is almost indescribable!

�gHaaa hahahaha! Weehaaaahaa!�h (Ellie)

This is amazing!

I feel completely free right now!

Even though Kira said it was supposed to be dense and cramped, it actually feels so wide to me!

{�gYou seem to be having a lot of fun.�h} (Kira)

Kira�fs voice comes in clearly through the earpiece.

Nano really made a good call with this suggestion!

This was an excellent use of the spare communicators we brought with us!

Kira also learned to use them almost immediately!

Though that much was expected - Kira says an adventurer need to be adaptable above all else.

And Kira is undoubtedly an amazing adventurer!

�gYeah! I�fve never been in a forest before! Running around here feels amazing!�h (Ellie)

It�fs completely different from the tight and cramped corridors of a ship or space station!

Let alone a forest, I�fve never been on the surface of a planet, either!

Way too dangerous considering how much that old fart chased after us!

Landing was easy, but leaving the atmosphere is a huge problem.

And while I could hide out on a backwater planet somewhere, that old fart would find me for sure.

He might even blow up the planet just to get at me!

He�fs scary!

And an idiot.

A truly terrifying combination!

{�gStill, the speed at which you�fre moving is incredible! You look like you could cross this forest faster than me,
and you�fre not even flying!�h} (Kira)
I gaze up through the treetops to confirm Kira�fs figure.

Earlier, Kira activated the [Flight] spell to keep an eye on me.

Kira can fly.

Three simple words that leave me in a daze every time I remember them!

{�gLooks like you got a group of Trolls ahead. Six of them. Can you handle them?�h} (Kira)

�gNo problem!�h (Ellie)

I became pretty familiar with their anatomy while I was skinning them yesterday.

So I�fm pretty sure I know where to strike them!

{�gDon�ft get cocky! The rate at which their wounds close up is not to be underestimated!�h} (Kira)

Ack!

�gRight! Of course! Sorry, Kira�c�h (Ellie)

That was close, I almost fell into the biggest pitfall of an adventurer - getting full of yourself!

If I am to support Kira as her companion, I have to take this seriously!

I break through a group of trees to a small clearing.

�gUhak? Ugh huh huh huh!�h (Troll)

Six trolls are there, just like Kira said.

Towering, ugly, smelly, ape-like monsters with stubby legs and entirely too long arms.

The brown fur they�fre covered in is filthy to say the least.

It looks like this pack has just killed and eaten�c something.

That doesn�ft matter though, they�fre my prey for today!

They all charge at me at once.

I withdraw my Tritanium blade and dash towards them!

*SLUSH*

�gAAAAAHCK!�h (Troll)

I slice clean through the first one�fs leg, crippling it for life.

That won�ft last long though.

I slash two more of them in an instant, opening them up and spraying blood everywhere.

The other three try swinging some thick club-like branches at me, but those slow clumsy attacks will never land!

I repel the clubs with a burst of [Telekinesis] before disarming all three.
They all scream in agony at the sudden loss of limbs.

The first one it seems is trying to attack me from behind, even though it lost a leg and is crawling on the ground.

Just how tenacious do you plan to be?!

I do a backflip over its clumsy attempt at grabbing my legs and land on its head while driving my blade clean
through his skull.

It keeps thrashing around though, looks like I missed the brain.

I withdraw my sword and decapitate it in one clean stroke.

It�fs the surest way to kill enemies with high-speed regeneration.

I�fm no stranger to fighting this type of opponent, after all.

Oh right, there�fs technically five more of them.

They all seem determined to attack me, despite their wounds.

Kira was right - these monsters are relentless!

They�fll just keep attacking until you or they are dead.

I jump from the dead one I was standing on and make swift work of the rest.

It doesn�ft take more than one slash to take each of them down!

I could have done it from the start, but disabling them is easier and safer to do.

An adventurer must be cautious and take every precaution to win battles!

Once all of them are dealt with, I swing my sword to clean it from all the filth that was stuck to it.

{�gWow! Ellie that was incredible! How did you slice through them so cleanly?! I�fve never seen someone cut
down Trolls like that before!�h} (Kira)

�gI�fm stronger than I look you know!�h (Ellie)

Also, my sword is pretty great.

Tritanium is known for two things - unparalleled toughness and high mass.

The sword will completely refuse to bend and the blade will take centuries of use before it grows dull!

The extra mass means it cuts deep into whatever it strikes!

Though I guess a regular person wouldn�ft be able to swing it around effectively.

Honestly, it�fs similar to Kira�fs staff in a way.

The first swords I was given were way too fragile, they couldn�ft cut through the door on my cell!

Though I suppose that was intentional�c

The one I have right now is one of the first things Nano got for me after our escape from the old fart.
If need be, I can even overlap my attack with [Telekinesis] to give it additional force.

Nano says it�fs strong enough to cut through a gunship!

In theory, of course.

Only a moron would actually assault a gunship with a sword.

{�gOkay. I see smoke rising in the distance, likely an orc den. Let�fs take this one together, okay?�h} (Kira)

***

�gKira! You said we�fd do it together!�h (Ellie)

�gSorry Ellie�c It�fs just that this is the first time I could cut loose so I got a little carried away�c�h (Kira)

Kira is apologizing to me while I stare at the devastation before me.

{That, my dear Kira, is an understatement. The [Grand Firestorm] spell you unleashed turned the ground into
glass!}

I�fll admit, I�fm a bit annoyed I didn�ft get to play- I mean, train.

But that towering, swirling tornado of white-hot flames incinerating everything in its path�c

I get goosebumps just remembering it!

There�fs not even a single trace left of the settlement of muscular, green-skinned, pig-faced orcs!

{Please promise me you won�ft use that anywhere near the tower! You almost melted one of my <<probes>>!}

�gI�fm sorry! I promise! Wait, one of your what?!�h (Kira)

{Ah�c did I not mention it? Hold on.}

Right, that�fs something Nano found last night!

Five of the shipping containers were full of scouting probes!

�gAh, there�fs one now!�h (Ellie)

I point at the probe coming down from the sky.

Since they usually fly high in the air, it�fs really hard to see them.

�gHm? Oh? What�fs this? Another one of Nano�fs golems?�h (Kira)

{That�fs right. These little guys can serve as my eyes in the sky, although their range is a bit limited. I can scout for
you as long as you remain within a certain distance of the tower.}

Well, they�fre fine tuned for the vacuum of space, so they definitely won�ft be as efficient planetside.

Their built-in pulse engines have to fight both air resistance and gravity after all...

�gIt�fs surprisingly cute�c�h (Kira)

�gReally?�h (Ellie)
I mean, they�fre just a floating silver-colored ball that�fs slightly bigger than a head.

�gYeah. The big red eye-like bit is adorable!�h (Kira)

Hmm�c Kira has a point.

That and the sleek design both give it a certain sort of charm.

�gSay Nano, can you see the city of Runetap? It�fs located some distance to the north of us.�h (Kira)

{The one surrounded by a circular wall?}

�gYes, that�fs the one. It should be the only settlement in the area.�h (Kira)

{I�fm a bit worried about bringing these guys too close to that city. I spied some flying creatures getting shot down
by what appear to be ballista and magic attacks. These flying guys are completely defenseless so thrusting them into
something like that is not a smart idea.}

�gAh, that�fs right. Those things are irreplaceable aren�ft they?�h (Kira)

{Yes. Although I have the blueprints for them, actually building one is impossible.}

Nano has a point, we can�ft replace those probes so we should treasure them.

While I�fm sure Nano could cobble together the shell and internals, the miniature pulse engines are a different
story.

Even if we had the materials, we would need special facilities to manufacture them.
�gBut it�fs within range? The city I mean.�h (Kira)

{Yes, it should be. It�fs relatively close by.}

�gI see�c then perhaps I can work some sort of arrangement out with the City Guard, make sure they don�ft
shoot them down. No promises though.�h (Kira)

�gSay Kira�c We�fre going to visit that city at some point, right?�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs right, but not for a while. I want to get to know everything there is to know about Ellie first!�h (Kira)

�gSame here!�h (Ellie)

�gThen let�fs head back for the day! ------- [Flight]�h (Kira)

Kira starts floating gently off the ground once again!

This is my chance!

�gKira! As an apology for going overboard earlier, I want you to carry me back to the tower!�h (Ellie)

�gOh?! This is surprising.�h (Kira)

�g... You can�ft?�h (Ellie)

�gOf course I can! It�fs no problem for someone like me! It�fs just that�c Why do you want me to carry you?
�h (Kira)

�gBecause it will be fun!�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu! Alright! Then climb onto my back! I�fll give you a flying piggyback ride as a special service!�h
(Kira)

Kira floats over to me and faces away from me, giving me easy access to Kira�fs backside!

�gReally? Yay!�h (Ellie)

*Pomf*

I make a small leap and embrace her tightly from behind!

�g... I�fm not heavy, right?�h (Ellie)

�gIt�fs fine. [Flight] is a Gravity Magic based spell so I can negate the weight with some extra mana!�h (Kira)

�gO-okay�c Uwooo! We�fre floating!�h (Ellie)

Perhaps a bit abruptly, we start flying onwards and upwards into the sky!

I hang tightly onto Kira, but my body feels weird, like there�fs no inertia.

I see, this is probably the effect of Kira�fs magic, how mysterious!

We fly around the air for what feels like hours.

It truly was a great experience!

The smell of Kira�fs hair was particularly great.

The warmth and unexpected wideness of her back were incredibly reassuring.

And when she turned her head around to smile at me, it felt like a second sun had risen.

Eventually though, this has to end.

Kira takes us back to the tower and gently lands on the ground.

I get down from her back once she released the spell.

�gSo how was it?�h (Kira)

�gBeautiful�c�h (Ellie)

�gYes�c I agree. The forest has a certain charm when viewed from the air... �g (Kira)

Kira brushes a stray strand of hair while turning to face the setting sun.

The small smile on her lips is simply breathtaking.

�gKira, I was not talking about some smelly old forest.�h (Ellie)

�g... Huh? Then what?�h (Kira)

Kira blinks a few times while she looks at me with a confused expression.

I point towards Kira, whose face steadily turns red as comprehension sets in.

�gI s-s-see�c Th-thank you. Wait here for a minute, o-okay?�h (Kira)
�gOkay!�h (Ellie)

Kira turns away from me and starts walking a bit stiffly towards the tower, gets inside and slams the door shut.

�gKYAAAAAAAAHAAHAAA!�h (Kira)

Kira�c

If you�fre going to squeal that loudly, why did you even bother hiding�c ?

***

I�fm having dinner with Kira.

Nano�fs drones and probes worked together to prepare us a delicious meal!

There�fs meat and some sort of vegetable soup!

They both smell delicious, but I haven�ft even started eating yet.

I�fm too busy watching Kira!

It�fs a storm of munching and cutlery!

Precise and quick hand movements that even I have trouble keeping up with!

The food disappears in almost an instant, leaving not even crumbs behind!

During breakfast and lunch, Kira ate slowly and properly like a princess!

But it seems Kira has grown completely hungry after this afternoon�fs expedition into the forest!

�gHaah�c That was delicious. Thank you for the food, Nano!�h (Kira)

{You�fre welcome. I must say, I�fm surprised at how much you can pack away. I�fm pretty sure that was more
than enough for two adults�c}

It�fs true, I have no idea how she�fs capable of such a feat!

Maybe all the nutrients go straight to Kira�fs breasts?

�gWell, I used up a lot of mana today. Doing that always makes me feel extra hungry.�h (Kira)

{You didn�ft have to eat like it was your first meal in a week though.}

�gAn adventurer needs to be able to finish their meals quickly! Ellie! You�fre falling behind! The training isn�ft
over just yet!�h (Kira)

�gOh! I messed up! Alright, I�fll do my best! *Omnomnomnom*�h (Ellie)

I underestimated how seriously Kira takes being an adventurer!

To think, training even while eating food...

As expected of Kira, maximum efficiency in all things!

*Nom nom nom*

�c

I wonder if I�fll get to have a soft, bouncy chest like Kira if I eat as much?

�gOh, right. Ellie, after you�fre done I�fm going to hold some lessons for you and Nano.�h (Kira)

�gHmm? Abouf- *Gulp* About what?�h (Ellie)

�gLetters. You can speak the language, but you can�ft write it at all, can you?�h (Kira)

�gAck! That�fs true!�h (Ellie)

Sounds and meanings are easy to transmit with thoughts, but things like letters and images are impossible for me!

�gNot to mention things like etiquette, greetings, history and government. Our entire culture is completely foreign
to you, right?�h (Kira)

�gIt is but�c why is that important?�h (Ellie)

�gWe want to avoid any mix-ups when we interact with people. For example, there�fs a well known incident
where a foreigner greeted a noble by headbutting him. It did not end well�c�h (Kira)

{You raise an excellent point, Kira. If we are going to interact with others in this world, we should take care that we
don�ft cause any misunderstandings.}

�gWell, it�fs not all bad. Sometimes misunderstandings turn out to be good things.�h (Kira)

Kira looks at me and smiles warmly.

�gVery good things indeed.�h (Kira)

�gHm?�h (Ellie)

�gNevermind that, you still have to finish your meal!�h (Kira)

***

�gHaah�c studying was a formidable enemy�c�h (Ellie)

I collapse on the sofa after Kira said we�fre done for the night.

�gThis is also part of your preparations, so please bear with it.�h (Kira)

Using my head for storing information is not something I�fm used to.

I�fd much prefer just letting Nano handle that part.

But Kira insisted I had to do it for myself and Nano agreed.

If both of them agree on something, then it must really be important.

�gTherefore, I�fll do my best!�h (Ellie)

�gTherefore? What?�h (Kira)

�gAh�c I was just getting myself motivated!�h (Ellie)

�gOh my, how diligent!�h (Kira)

Hehe, I got praised again!

�gThen, Nano, is the bath prepared?�h (Kira)

{It is. The water�fs all heated and ready for you. We don�ft have any soap, unfortunately.}

�gThat�fs alright. Just having a good soak is enough for stress relief.�h (Kira)

Kira gets up from the sofa and heads out of the living room.

Then, after climbing up the stairs to the first floor, Kira enters the bedroom and starts undressing.

�gWah? Ellie?�h (Kira)

�gHm? Yes, Kira?�h (Ellie)

She suddenly jumped a bit in surprise as she was about to remove her red shirt.

�g... Did you follow me from downstairs?�h (Kira)

�gOf course. I go wherever Kira goes!�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm glad you feel that way, but please don�ft sneak around like that! You startled me!�h (Kira)

Whoops, I did it again.

I�fm so used to skulking and sneaking everywhere that I end up doing it unintentionally!

�gSorry Kira�c It�fs a habit.�h (Ellie)

�gWell, it�fs not a bad habit to have, just please be more mindful of others unless we�fre in the field, okay?�h
(Kira)

Kira has a point.

Sneaking up on someone is not really a good way of showing trust, now that I think about it.

�gOkay! I understand!�h (Ellie)

Kira nods satisfyingly and heads towards the bathroom.

She stops in front of the door and slowly turns around to look at me with a troubled face.

�gUm, Ellie?�h (Kira)

�gYes?�h (Ellie)

I wonder if I messed up again?

I took extra care to make sure I�fm making my presence felt this time, you know!

�gYou�fre going to follow me inside?�h (Kira)

�gOf course. I go wherever Kira goes!�h (Ellie)

�gLike I said, I�fm glad you feel that way. It�fs just that�c the bath is a bit�c�h (Kira)

�gHmm? A bit what?�h (Ellie)

{Excuse me Kira, if I may? Ellie has never taken an actual bath before, so she�fs a bit ignorant.}

�gYes I have! Please don�ft make it sound like I walk around smelly and dirty!�h (Ellie)

{Shower In A Can? doesn�ft count, Ellie.}

�gWhat? It doesn�ft?!�h (Ellie)

{That�fs right. What Kira wants to do is very different from that.}

So it�fs not just spraying yourself with a mist that absorbs and eats away any dirt and filth on your body?!

Come to think of it, Kira said it was supposed to be relaxing, right?

In that case, I want to know!

�gKira! Teach me how to have a �eproper bath�f please!�h (Ellie)

I�fm really curious about what I�fve been missoing out on!

�g...�h (Kira)

Kira looks at me with a difficult to read expression, is it really that big a deal?

Ah, I�fm asking for a favor, so I should be more polite!

�gPlease?�h (Elllie)

�gUuu�c Ellie�fs pleading look really is cheating�c Hii fuuu�c Hii fuuu�c Alright. Follow me.�h (Kira)

�gYay!�h (Ellie)

Kira opens the door and heads inside the bathroom.

It�fs covered in tiles Nano made out of the various stones that were around the place.

The yellowish-orange color of the floor and walls gives it a rather fancy feel.

�gKira? Is someone making soup?�h (Ellie)

I point at the huge wooden tub in the corner is filled with hot water.

�gWow! You really have no idea, huh? A bath is where we rinse off our bodies and soak them in hot water.�h
(Kira)

Oh, so that�fs what that tub was for!

�gBut won�ft our clothes get wet that way?�h (Ellie)

The Shower In A Can? doesn�ft release liquid, it�fs actually a swarm of airborne nanites that expire after 15
minutes.

So things like getting your clothes-

�gThat�fs why we have to strip naked, silly!�h (Kira)

�g... Huh? W-what?�h (Ellie)

Nobody told me about this!

{Ah. Did I not mention that part?}

Nano!

You deliberately left it out on purpose!

It�fs super embarrassing!

Hmm?

How come it�fs embarrassing?

Me and Kira are both girls so it shouldn�ft be something to be embar-

*Clack*

�c

*Plop*

�c

�gHaah, much better�c It sure is stuffy being in that leather outfit all day!�h (Kira)

Right now, before my eyes, Kira is completely nude.

I see, I was underestimating them.

*Boing*

Kira always keeps them wrapped up tight, so seeing them unbound like this is really somethin else!

�gCome on Ellie, your turn. Water will get cold.�h (Kira)

�gUm�c On second thought, maybe Kira should go first�c�h (Ellie)

�gOh my! Are you being shy? There�fs nothing to worry about you know? Come on, take that suit off and join
me! I�fll even scrub your back ~?!�h (Kira)

What was that?!

Why did I feel something was weird in Kira�fs speech?!

�gThis is also part of your adventurer training you know!�h (Kira)

�gIt�c it is?�h (Ellie)

�gOf course! You, uh, might get exposed during battle if�c if your armor gets damaged! Or if you get hit by
corrosive poison and have to discard it! Being able to withstand a bit of shame is vital to staying alive as a woman
out there!�h (Kira)

No, Kira, I don�ft think anyone taking that sort of proud pose while being completely naked is in any position to
teach others about shame!

But that�fs still a good point�c

I�fll just think of this as training to steel my heart!

Yes, that�fs it!

�gO-okay then. I understand�c�h (Ellie)

I begin to undress awkwardly while Kira is keeping a close eye on me.

The look in those eyes somehow feels really scary!

�gAh, sorry! I didn�ft mean to stare so hard.�h (Kira)

Kira seems to notice my discomfort and looks away.

�gUhm�c Kira�c i-i-if nobody�fs watching it won�ft really be much p-p-practice�c�h (Ellie)

�g�c�h (Kira)

Kira looks straight at me and nods slightly.

Good, like this it can actually be considered training.

It�fs no good to do things half-heartedly, especially with this sort of thing.

Preparations are important!

As for my bath preparations...

*Plop*

�gI�fm d-d-d-d-done.�h (Ellie)

�gOkay! Very good! Now for the bath - first we wash ourselves before we get in.�h (Kira)

Kira casually grabs me by the hand and leads me over to the tub.

***

I lie down on the bed after drying off.

�gHaaaah�c Baths are great�c�h (Ellie)

Any awkwardness I felt at first seemed to just disappear once we started washing up.

I guess it really wasn�ft such a big deal after all.

Kira is already in her nightgown and is sitting on the other end of the bed, facing away from me.

�gEllie, I�fm glad you enjoyed it, but don�ft walk around naked outside the bath!�h (Kira)

�c

�gSorry, Kira.�h (Ellie)

I get off the bed and quickly slip into my pajamas.

That whole excercise was meant to help me deal with emergencies.

I don�ft plan on actually being shameless!

After I make myself decent, I turn my attention back to Kira, who is carefully combing the silky and slightly damp
red hair with a small wooden comb.

I guess taking care of that much hair is a bit of a bother.

I can�ft complain with the results though - Kira looks great with that long hair!

How come it�fs all shiny and silky like that, though?

Not to mention the scent Kira�fs body gives off is pretty great, too!

�gSay Kira, does this world have fancy soaps and shampoos?�h (Ellie)

�gWe do, yes. An acquaintance of mine sells shampoos and soaps made with alchemy. The floral smell they give
off is quite nice. I can personally guarantee their quality.�h (Kira)

Kira answers me without looking back.

I see, Kira uses quality products.

That explains a lot!

�gHowever, they�fre a bit too expensive for me, so I only bought them once. It was a good purchase, though.�h
(Kira)

�gHow long ago was this?�h (Ellie)

�gHmm�c it was still winter�c six months ago? Something like that.�h (Kira)

�gOh.�h (Ellie)

So that pleasant aroma surrounding Kira is completely natural?

Can people even smell that nice all on their own?

�c

Oh well, it�fs my loss if I mind it!

�gOkay, all done. Shall we go to bed, Ellie?�h (Kira)

�gAh, yes!�h (Ellie)

Let�fs just enjoy it thoroughly!

Kira lays down on the bed and I climb in as well.

We share a warm hug as I nestle my head against Kira�fs bouncy chest.

Today was the first day we had to properly spend together.

I learned many things, had a lot of fun and became closer with Kira.

This just might be the best day of my life!

*Smooch*
Huh?

There was something wet and hot against my forehead!

�gKira?�h (Ellie)

I shift my head and look up at Kira�fs smiling face.

�gFufufu�c It�fs just a good night kiss. It�fs a special charm to make sure you have nothing but pleasant
dreams!�h (Kira)

I take it back.

This is definitely the best day in my life!

�gI see! Thanks Kira!�h (Ellie)

�gThen, good night Ellie!�h (Kira)

�gGood night Kira! Good night Nano!�h (Ellie)

�gAh, that�fs right! Good night, Nano.�h (Kira)

{Thanks, sleep well you two. Just leave the night watch to me.}

The lights gradually dim as I get lost in the warm and fluffy sensations around my head.

Zzzzzz�c
Chapter 11 - Meeting colleagues outside of work is somehow more
stressful than it needs to be - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

{Girls, sorry to interrupt your dinner, but we have visitors.}

Nano suddenly speaks up as we�fre finishing up our meal.

�gOh? You mean people, right?�h (Kira)

{That�fs right. There�fs four of them and they�fre making steady progress through the forest. They�fre
probably Kira�fs colleagues.}

�gHuh?�h (Ellie)

I thought Kira didn�ft have anything like that!

�gWhat?�h (Kira)

See?!

{Sorry, my bad. I meant adventurers.}

�gCan you describe them?�h (Kira)

{There�fs two humans among them, both holding swords and shields while being lightly armored. The third one is
rather short and oddly proportioned, carrying what appears to be a crossbow. The last one is tall and really skinny,
with pointed ears and green hair.}

�gIs the short one bald? Also the green-haired one is carrying a staff, right?�h (Kira)

{That�fs right. You know them?}

Kira lets out a small sigh.

Doesn�ft look to be a friendly relationship.

�gI do. They�fre a Rank B adventurer team. The short one�fs a dwarf. They�fre a bit clumsy with their feet, but
their hands and fingers are nimble. Also their stamina is first class. The tall one is an elf - they�fre weak physically,
but have excellent heads and live several times longer than others. There�fs a few exceptions, but the
overwhelming majority of elves are either mages, researchers or artists.�h (Kira)

Hmm, so I guess there�fs different humanoid species no matter the world, huh?

Well, that is to say ones that aren�ft trying to kill us.

Unlike the orcs and goblins we fought this afternoon as part of my training.

{Should I repel them with force?}

�gPlease don�ft. Doing something like that unprovoked will be troublesome.�h (Kira)

{If anyone is �edoing something unprovoked�f it�fs them. They�fre currently attacking one of the drones. It was
scouting for the edible mushrooms you mentioned and was ambushed. I ordered it to retreat for now, but they�fre
even giving chase.}

Kira facepalms with a long, drawn out sigh while Nano recounts the events.

�gShould have known. I have an excellent idea why they�fre here, though. Can you lead them to this place? I�fll
meet them outside the wall.�h (Kira)

{Understood. The drone�fs right legs got damaged right away, so it doesn�ft look like it can get away anyway.}

�gReally now? Hmm�c That can work to my advantage. Huhuhuhu�c�h (Kira)

Wow, I had no idea Kira could make such a sinister face!

If I didn�ft know any better, I�fd have thought she was a really sinister person!

�gEllie, get in gear and come with me. Things shouldn�ft get violent, but you need to restrain them if that
happens.�h (Kira)

�gOkay!�h (Ellie)

***

We are waiting for our guests to arrive while standing outside of the outer wall.

By Nano�fs estimate, they should be here in about ten minutes.

The sun is still setting so it might get dark soon.

�gKira, why are we meeting them out here?�h (Ellie)

�gWell, those guys probably came on a request to find the thing that flew over Runetap 5 days ago.�h (Kira)

�gAh�c You mean our house?�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs right. It�fs vital that we get them to lose interest in it and allow us to stake First Claim over it.�h
(Kira)

�gWhat�fs First Claim?�h (Ellie)

�gIt�fs a verbal contract when adventurers meet each other unexpectedly like this. If both sides agree to it, then it
serves as a way to solve disputes over treasure, monster carcasses or land. If we don�ft get their approval, they
might dispute the land Nano�fs tower is built on.�h (Kira)

�gI see. They�fre trying to take our new home away from us!�h (Ellie)

I unsheathe my sword and get ready!

How dare they try to take my new home away from me!

�gStop that! We�fre not going to fight them! If worst comes to worst, Nano can just move the tower over, right?
�h (Kira)

{Hmm. It�fs definitely possible, though it will be troublesome.}

�gBut what if they try to cheat and say they never agreed!?�h (Ellie)

�gIf disputes get really bad, both parties need to head to the capital where an Interrogator can determine the truth.
Those people have these magic tools that are flawless at detecting lies you see.�h (Kira)
�g... Nano?�h (Ellie)

{I think I see what Kira�fs saying. Basically if they try to go back on their word they�fll just end up wasting
everyone�fs time and then get punished, right?}

�gRight, exactly. Violating the First Claim like that is grounds for being expelled from the guild, maybe even
imprisoned.�h (Kira)

�gAlright. We�fll do it Kira�fs way.�h (Ellie)

�g... What were you planning to do to them?�h (Kira)

�gKill them of course.�h (Ellie)

�gEllie�c�h (Kira)

Kira�fs face went really dark all of a sudden!

�gI won�ft ask or question what you did to survive before you came here�c But please, try to refrain from killing
people. You�fre strong enough to do that, right?�h (Kira)

�gSure�c but why?�h (Ellie)

If I kill them off then they never bother us again.

It�fs simple, right?

�gBecause that sort of thing�c It�fs not right. Nothing but sadness spreads from the act of murder, no matter the
circumstances. So please, promise me! Unless it�fs absolutely necessary, under no circumstances kill any rational
living being! Okay?�h (Kira)

�gWhat about the orcs and trolls?�h (Ellie)

�gThose are monsters. Vermin. Nothing good comes from leaving those alive. They cannot be reasoned with and
just keep coming at you relentlessly.�h (Kira)

Come to think of it, those monsters do seem determined to keep attacking us no matter how badly they�fre hurt.

Even wild beasts would be more reasonable.

I see, Kira really is a kind, warm person after all.

To be worried about those that might bring harm.

{That�fs a bit of a naive view of the world, Kira.}

�gProbably, if we were talking about your world. Things here are different. I may still be naive even by this
country�fs standards, but I refuse to give up on my convictions. I will not allow myself or Ellie to do anything that
will stain our souls or that I will end up regretting!�h (Kira)

Kira�fs will shines through those eyes of hers.

The determination to not take a life, huh?

As expected, Kira is amazing in many different ways.

�gI want to do my best not to kill anyone. But-�h (Ellie)

Kira raises a hand to stop me.

�gI know. That sort of thing won�ft always be an option. But please, go along with this selfish request for as long
as you deem fit.�h (Kira)

Kira makes an excellent point, there are going to be times when holding back would lead to tragedy.

However, I was going to say I�fm really bad at holding back�c

I might slice them in two if I use my sword by accident, even if I was being careful!

Ah, but it should be fine if I don�ft use my sword on people, yes?

Okay, let�fs just focus on incapacitating people with CQC or throwing knives!

�gUnderstood. I promise to protect the creed by which Kira wishes to live.�h (Ellie)

Kira�fs gloomy expression turns into a relieved smile.

�gThank you.�h (Kira)

Yep, a smiling Kira really is best after all.

I may have to break my promise if someone takes that smile away from her.

So I will work hard to make sure that doesn�ft happen!

***

{They�fre almost here.}

�gThey�fre late. It�fs been almost 20 minutes!�h (Kira)

{My bad. I overestimated them. That dwarf in particular is really slowing them down.}

�gWell, can�ft complain. I was able to complete my preparations in peace!�h (Kira)

Kira hid the black walls underground with Earth magic.

Nano�fs drones and probes all retreated inside the tower and all the lights were turned off.

With the sun almost gone, the area round us is really getting dark.

�g-- [Illuminate]�h (Kira)

A small ball of light floated up from Kira�fs staff and lit up the area around us.

All this is part of the plan to disguise our home as an old decrepit tower we found.

It doesn�ft look that way to me, but it should confuse those without low-light vision like mine.

{Okay, here it comes! Time to put my acting skills to the test!}

�gI�fll be counting on you. And Ellie?�h (Kira)

�gUnderstood. I�fll quietly monitor them in case they get violent.�h (Ellie)

A drone burst out of the treeline into the little clearing Nano made.
Two of its legs were badly mangled with sparks coming out of them.

Four adventurers were chasing after them.

Just as Nano described - two armored men, one shorty and one robed elf.

The drone turned towards us, leading them on.

When the group saw us, they started yelling.

"Watch out! It's a new breed of monster!" (Shorty)

"Stay back! We have First Claim!" (Swrodsman A)

"Please stand back! The Rank B adventurer team [Red Fang] will handle it!" (Swordsman B)

Rank B?

So they�fre higher in rank than Kira, who�fs still at C?

Could it be�c they�fre actually amazing people?

Whatever the case, they seem to be misunderstanding something.

No, it's better to say they're completely wrong about all of it.

The drone accelerates towards us and hid behind Kira.

Since Kira�fs ball of light is clearly lighting up the area around us, our visitors had no trouble witnessing that.

They stopped running, approaching us with weapons drawn.

How dare they draw a weapon on Kira!?

Ack, no, you promised Ellie!

Oooooohm.

Oooooohm.

Fuuuu.

Okay, I�fm calm.

Seeing as how neither us nor the drone are hostile, they put away their weapons.

That makes things a bit easier for me.

�gGood day, Oliver.�h (Kira)

Kira greets them with a slight smile.

"Geh, it really is the Crackhead, huh?" (Short Baldy)

The dwarf with the crossbow muttered.

As expected, they really are as rude as Kira feared.

I promised to endure their behavior as long as it doesn�ft get violent, so that�fs what I�fll do.

That doesn�ft mean these guys will get any respect from me, though.

Since the dwarf plans on being mean towards Kira, so his name is now Short Baldy.

Because he�fs bald.

And also short.

A truly pitiful combination.

"Don't put your hands on another's prey!" (Swordsman 1)

"Prey? You're mistaking something. This is my pet." (Kira)

"... pet?" (Swordsman 2)

"That's right. He's a cutie isn't he? Who's a good boy!?" (Kira)

Kira crouched next to the golem and started hugging and patting it while scratching its head.

Kuh, that damn golem!

I'm not jealous, okay?!

The golem responded by swaying gently and letting out noises that sound like purring.

I had no idea those tiny servomotors could give out that sort of noise!

Nano�fs acting really is top notch!

Kira stood up while hugging the drone.

"Anyway, as you can see, it's clearly obedient and definitely not a violent monster.�h (Kira)

�g... Okay. You�fve made your point. Stand down, lads.�h (Short Baldy)

�gBut still, to think [Red Fang] would attack my precious pet�c Your team mate even declared First Claim on
something that has an owner, didn�ft he?�h (Kira)

�gI�fm�c sure you misheard me�c�h (Swordsman 1)

�gNo. You clearly and loudly declared your intentions. But I�fm sure that was a misunderstanding since this
cute little thing looked a bit odd. Combined with the low visibility, it truly must have been a mistake. After all, a
veteran party of Rank B adventurers wouldn't do something shameless like this on purpose. Right?!�h (Kira)

Some of Kira's words were practically dripping with displeasure.

The mouth was smiling, but the eyes weren't!

Short Baldy flinched and shrunk away with each verbal stab.

It�fs like he was taking damage without actually getting hit!

�g*Cough* That's right. It was a misunderstanding. We were in the wrong. Please forgive us.�h (Short Baldy)

Oh, Short Baldy bounced back a lot faster than I expected!

I guess the whole Rank B thing wasn�ft just for show after all!

�gThere is no problem since you apologized.�h (Kira)

Kira replied with a bright smile and put the drone on the ground.

It scuttled around and hid behind Kira.

Nano�fs acting really is masterful - I could swear it was genuinely afraid!

�gSo. What�fs a loony like you doing out here anyway?�h (Short Baldy)

�gI live here.�h (Kira)

Kira replies while pointing at the forlorn tower behind us.

The shape of the tower must look like a silhouette against the barely lit sky to these guys.

Short Baldy gives it a quick glance and turns back to Kira.

�gHuh?! Since when? No, nevermind, I don�ft actually care. I�fm just glad it�fll get quieter around the guild
again without you poking your face in it to complain every other day!�h (Short Baldy)

�gRight�c What about you, Oliver? Why are you out here?�h (Kira)

�gA job of course. What else?�h (Short Baldy)

�gI see. Must be good money to risk spending the night in this forest.�h (Kira)

�gIt is! We�fre looking to find the remains of that [Fallen Star] that-�h (Swordsman 1)

�gShut it, Nigel!�h (Short Baldy)

�g... sorry, Oliver.�h (Swordsman 1)

�gAnyway, we were the ones entrusted with this duty, so don�ft try to butt in!�h (Short Baldy)

�gBut what exactly is this [Fallen Star]? How can I stay out of your way if I don�ft know what to avoid?�h
(Kira)

�gWhere have you been, under a rock?!�h (Short Baldy)

Kira points to the tower in the distance once more.

�gRight, stupid question. It�fs what the guild is calling the huge flaming thing that flew over Runetap five days
ago. People say it landed somewhere in this forest.�h (Short Baldy)

�gAh! Well, sorry Oliver, but I already found it. In fact, it�fs become my new house, see? Since I found it first,
I�fm willing to split the reward with you.�h (Kira)

Kira once again points at the tower, to which Short Baldy responds with a sneer.

�gHah, yeah right! You think I�fll believe towers fall down from the sky like that?!�h (Short Baldy)

�gThis one did, though.�h (Kira)

Kira responds plainly.

Well, it�fs not a lie, it just wasn�ft really a tower at the time.

�gLeave her, Oliver. Her head is bad as usual.�h (Grunt A)

�gYeah, she�fs being as delusional as she always is.�h (Grunt B)

The two swordsmen cut in with their worthless opinions.

They�fre clearly looking down on Kira inside their heads.

Therefore, they are now Grunt A and Grunt B!

The elf is being really weird though.

... its leaves should have the desired effect, but the smell is too strong. I should try mixing it with �c (Herb-obsessed
Elf)

He�fs completely in his own world of herbs and leaves ever since this conversation started.

What an odd fellow.

Well, he�fs not being rude so I won�ft mind what he does on his own time.

�gYeah, you two have a point. Nothing good ever comes out of talking with the Crackhead.�h (Short Baldy)

Short Baldy keeps mocking Kira.

The way he says �eCrackhead�f makes it obvious it�fs meant as an insult.

I keep getting angrier and angrier, but I promised, so I�fm being quiet.

�gI�fm being serious though! I just want a fair cut and we can all call it a day. I�fm even willing to completely
give up on my First Claim if you give me a good price!�h (Kira)

�gLook missy, I know your type! I won�ft be sucked in by your money-grubbing schemes again!�h (Short
Baldy)

The dwarf keeps getting more and more irritated, clouding his judgement.

I see�c so this is what Kira meant by �enegotiations!�f

What formidable foresight and preparation!

�gThen you have no qualms about letting me keep it?�h (Kira)

�gAbsolutely none! You can rot in that old ruin for the rest of your life for all I care!�h (Short Baldy)

�gMister Picorio, it's fine with you as well?�h (Kira)

The elf suddenly snaps to reality and looks at Kira.

�gThis place is remote. Inhospitable terrain, no signs of the previous residents and my team has given their
consent. I have no objections.�h (Picorio)

Picorio responds in a stiff monotone.

It looks like he was carefully considering the scene, even though his head is filled with leaves.
That�fs quite the impressive feat in some ways...

�gTherefore, as acting leader of adventurer team [Red Fang], I concede the right of First Claim over this land to
individual Kiressara mil Quasse.�h (Picorio)

Wait, this guy is the leader?

Even though Short Baldy acts like he�fs in charge, isn�ft he actually an underling?

�gThanks Picorio. Pleasure dealing with you.�h (Kira)

Kira bows slightly.

�gNow then, would [Red Fang] kindly get off my property?�h (Kira)

Oh, right!

Even if First Claim is settled for a plot of land, that�fs just an agreement between adventurers.

We still need to go and register this place with the city, then pay a fee and some taxes.

Kira says I need to focus on my training before we head there though.

"Hah, don't have to ask me twice! Come on you lot! We have a [Fallen Star] to find!" (Short Baldy)

I really don�ft get that guy though.

You�fre just a Short Baldy, and yet you dare to act so bossy?!

�gAye!�h (Grunts A & B)

The group of five start to leave.

�gGoodbye. Stay safe out there. Say goodbye, Ellie.�h (Kira)

I guess there�fs no more reason for me to keep quiet.

They tick me off, but let�fs follow Kira�fs brilliant example and be courteous.

�gGoodbye.�h (Ellie)

�gUWAAK!�h (Short Baldy, Grunt A & B)

The three idiots jump up and stare at me in shock.

Did they notice me just now?

I mean I was right next to them!

Ah, I put too much effort into keeping quiet, didn�ft I?

I�fm bad at holding back, after all...

Picorio seems to be mostly fine though.

He�fs still thinking about his shampoo recipe.

His ability to not mind things is on a level far beyond my own!

Chapter 12 - The ordinary days that we live in may, in fact, be a series of
miracles - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

In a certain tower in the middle of a certain forest, due south a certain troublesome city, a certain duo were about to
start their day. Kira�fs eyes fluttered open and she looked at the person she fell asleep next to. The feeling of
someone snuggling against her every morning and every night felt a bit awkward and uncomfortable at first, but she
got completely used to it after several days.

Well�c it�fs fine if I spoil her a bit, right? (Kira)

She smiled gleefully and the still sleeping Ellie who was curled up next to her. This foreign girl�fs innocent, often
child-like behavior filled Kira�fs heart with joy. She gently stroked her sleeping companion�fs hair a few times
before planting a small kiss on her forehead.

�gHeeah�c Kiraa�c Huh? Ah! Good morning Kira!�h (Ellie)

Ellie woke up gradually under Kira�fs gentle touch. When she confirmed the most special (and only) person in her
life was still there, she was overcome with joy. Like a flower in full bloom, her face blossomed into a full smile.
Lately she had been smiling so much that her face had started to hurt at times, but she couldn�ft help it. She was
truly and honestly happy to share her days peacefully with another person.

�gGood morning, Ellie. You too Nano.�h (Kira)

�gAh! Nano! Good morning!�h (Ellie)

{Good morning you two. You�fre awfully chipper considering it�fs not even dawn yet.}

�gKira�fs hugs are really invigorating you know! And the good morning kiss is the best part! It makes me feel
like I can take on the world!�h (Ellie)

�gPlease don�ft actually do that, though.�h (Kira)

�gDon�ft worry, Kira! I won�ft lose!�h (Ellie)

�gI know. It�fs the rest of the world I�fm worried about�c�h (Kira)

After going back and forth like this for a while, the two got up and prepared for the day ahead of them.

First was breakfast prepared by Nano. Mushrooms, fruits, herbs, roots, berries, nuts, bee honey and other edible
ingredients were easily gathered by dozens of drones that swarmed over the forest. Kira had shared plenty of
information regarding what was safe to eat and what was not, which Nano put to practical use.

Although overflowing with monsters, the forest still housed wild animals. The main differences between a monster
and a wild animal was that the latter were much less aggressive and much more edible. Wild boar in particular had
become a staple diet of Nano�fs household. Finding one was difficult, but hunting them would provide meat for a
long time to come. Especially since the wild boars in the vicinity of Runetap grew to the size of a bus. From
Nano�fs perspective, that just meant more meat for the freezer!

After breakfast, Ellie moved on to doing her exercises. Calisthenics to warm up before moving onto a series of kata.
Three forms unarmed, three forms with the sword. Coordination between body and mind was essential for bringing
out the full force of her [Telekinesis], so she would not skip out on these motions. Kira spent this time enjoying the
sight the sight of Ellie�fs �edancing�f as if it was some sort of performance.
After Ellie, it was Kira�fs turn to train. Just like any other skill, spell-casting needed to be honed through effort and
willpower. She took this opportunity to educate Ellie on the basics of countering and avoiding magical attacks, as
well as basic magical theory that is common sense among adventurers. Ellie soaked in every word out of Kira�fs
mouth like a sponge. Nano would remember the details for her if need be, but it was important to Ellie that she listen
closely to Kira�fs voice. These basic lectures about magic had revealed a shocking truth to Ellie, however.

Ellie was unable to use magic. Kira had determined that Ellie�fs body was almost completely devoid of mana.
While every living thing had some amount of mana within its body, it was often too little to produce a magical
effect. Let alone a mana pool, most people had what could only be described as a mana puddle. In Ellie�fs case, it
seemed to be even more extreme.

However, Ellie was not concerned with this. She could still rely on her psionic abilities to do things Kira couldn�ft
do with magic. [Telekinesis] was a flexible tool - she could hold and lift multiple heavy objects, repel enemies and
attacks with an invisible push and ward off projectile attacks. [Telepathy] on the other hand could be used to weed
out people�fs true intentions, discerning their true motives and help protect the two from being misled.

And while overuse of these abilities do put a certain amount of strain on the mind, Ellie had been using them
constantly for many years - to the point where they were second nature to her. However, this was the first time Ellie
was truly glad she was born with these gifts. She finally had something precious she could protect.

***

After the morning training session came lunch. Kira and Ellie both ate the food Nano provided with gusto and zeal.
As for the taste of Nano�fs cooking, one would find it hard to describe it as anything other than �eokay.�f The
lack of spices and seasonings, not to mention the focus on nutritional balance, meant that such things as flavor were
left by the wayside. It was a small miracle the food actually tasted as good as it did.

Not that Nano�fs customers minded that.

Kira could finally eat as much as she wanted for free. While she was never quite starving, her limited budget meant
she couldn�ft eat her fill regularly like this.

Ellie on the other hand was incredibly happy to have actual food to eat. With every bite, she felt joy overflowing
from the bottom of her soul. The joy of finally being free of the pills and protein paste that had become the staple
dishes of her former space-vagrant lifestyle.

It was more than that, though. The simple fact that both of these loners could share a meal with another person like
this made it seem much tastier.

The result of all that was that even though these meals were, objectively speaking, a bit bland, neither of these two
girls found them to be anything other than delicious.

***

And after happily finishing their lunch, the duo would head out into the forest. The hostile environment meant they
would often encounter packs of monsters or encroach onto their lairs and dens. They worked diligently on honing
their teamwork while tempering Ellie�fs skills as an adventurer.

Ellie was in front as usual. Using a combination of her sword attacks, self-taught martial arts, [Telekinesis] and
throwing knives, she was a versatile all-range fighter. She would sometimes get a bit too into it, losing herself in a
sort of battle trance. A state that turned her into a veritable whirlwind of carnage! She easily took apart the pack of
ferocious giant wolves they had come upon just a few minutes ago!

However, rather than praise, Ellie�fs behavior earned her a scolding. One Kira was in the middle of administering
with great zeal.
�gAn adventurer must be vigilant at all times! Getting drunk on adrenaline like that narrows your field of vision!
It�fs a bad habit that will make you miss crucial details during a critical moment!�h (Kira)

�gBut! Nano is keeping an eye on us! I�fm also watching the trees around us for suspicious movement!�h (Ellie)

It was not overconfidence nor carelessness on Ellie�fs part. It�fs true that Nano�fs surveillance net of flying
probes would easily catch sight of any large-scale monster movements. However, that behavior proved Ellie was not
thinking like an adventurer.

�gNaive! What�fre you going to do if a flying monster takes out Nano�fs golems? What if giant insects attacks
you from underground? Or what if a bandit has concealed himself with invisibility?! There�fs even the possibility
of insects appearing in your underwear!�h (Kira)

�gWhat? They just appear in my underwear!? Such a thing exists?!�h (Ellie)

�gOf course! Well... probably. I have my suspicions. They used to appear quite often in my Magic Academy days.
No matter how diligently I check my clothes, I would sometimes feel caterpillars or beetles inexplicably appear in
them!�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs seriously scary!�h (Ellie)

{Kira. May I ask a question?}

�gWhat is it Nano?�h (Kira)

{When you say they �eused to�f appear, does that mean they�fre not an issue anymore?}

�gWell, while it�fs true that they haven�ft appeared at all after my graduation, such thinking is also naive!
They�fre probably lying in wait, waiting for me to let my guard down!�h (Kira)

{I�fm pretty sure you were just being bullied.}

�gHuh?�h (Kira)

{Putting bugs down the clothes of kids they don�ft like is a staple of bullies, is it not?}

�g...�h (Kira)

{Just�c throwing that out there.}

�g*Cough* That is, um. Also a likely explanation�c�h (Kira)

Ellie started seething with a quiet rage. She had heard how Kira was relentlessly persecuted in the past. It was not
something Ellie would willingly forgive.

�gSo. Where did you say these bullies live? I may need to�c educate them.�h (Ellie)

�gEllie? Please don�ft-!�h (Kira)

Shocked by Ellie�fs suddenly icy stare and bloodlust-laden voice, Kira panicked at what Ellie was preparing
herself to do. Sensing her distress, Ellie relaxed herself and reassured Kira.

�gI won�ft kill them, Kira. I�fm just going to�c educate them.�h (Ellie)

She cracked her knuckles in anticipation. Those that caused her friends pain - emotional or otherwise - needed to
pay for their crimes. Ellie promised only to kill as a last resort. However, people are tenacious. They can still live on
with broken bones and dislocated joints. She would simply return the pain they inflicted on Kira with even more
pain.

Emotional and otherwise.

�gLook Ellie, while I�fm happy that you�fre mad for my sake, those people have nothing to do with the task at
hand. Therefore, forget about them and focus!�h (Kira)

�gRight! Sorry Kira.�h (Ellie)

I do get a bit carried away when I think someone might be disrespectful towards someone this Kiramazing.

Kira deserves their respect and admiration.

I�fll be sure Kira gets what she is owed when the time comes though.

�gVery good. Now then, let�fs go find another pack of wolves - the way they cooperate against us will be good
practice. Just remember to keep focused this time!�h (Kira)

�gRoger!�h (Ellie)

Kira looked around them before turning back to Ellie with a puzzled expression.

�gI don�ft see him.�h (Kira)

�gHmm?�h (Ellie)

�gWhere�fs this Roger guy at?�h (Kira)

�gWho?�h (Ellie)

�gWhy are you asking- You know what, nevermind.�h (Kira)

***

After working hard all afternoon to thin out the pests and vermin around their new home, Kira and Ellie would
return for supper. A satisfying meal after a hard day�fs work. But the day would not be over just yet. The dark
evenings were reserved for Kira�fs lectures on writing and culture in the Kingdom of Ferseit.

After all, things that were common sense to Kira should be completely foreign to Ellie and Nano. Things like
greetings and general etiquette, which derogatory terms and phrases to avoid. Admittedly, Kira was maybe not the
best teacher on the subject of common sense, but it was better than nothing.

A few hours of studying later, Kira and Ellie would take a long relaxing soak in the bath before cuddling up together
for the night. Simply knowing the other person was there for them would ensure they both have a restful sleep. And
like this, another day in Kira and Ellie�fs new life would come to a close the same way it had ever since they met
each other.

Well, with one small difference. Ellie was hugging Kira�fs midsection ever so slightly tighter than usual, as if the
thing in her arms was a body pillow rather than a person.

�gMmmm�c so soft�c�h (Ellie)

�gEllie! It�fs embarrassing when you keep focusing on my chest like that!�h (Kira)

�gHmm? But that�fs not what I meant. Kira�fs chest is fluffy and warm, but the waist is also gotten a lot better!
�h (Ellie)
�g... The waist?�h (Kira)

�gYeah! It used to be firmer, but lately it�fs been getting much more comfortable! My hands seem to sink in
slightly! It�fs great!�h (Ellie)

In Ellie�fs mind, this was completely a compliment. Using the logic of �esoft things are nice�f this
straightforward and blunt girl had blurted out a truth Kira had been deluding herself about for a while now.

While it was true that every spell a mage used would consume some measure of their body�fs energy reserves, it
was an almost insignificant amount. Even for Kira, whose daily output was much higher than most mages, this was
easily remedied by eating an extra mouthful or two with each meal. Using that as an excuse for double and triple
servings was just her way of justifying eating so much.

It was Kira�fs bad habit of self-delusion, a way to run away from the bothersome parts of reality.

{Now that Ellie mentions it, Kira has been getting a bit-}

�gOkay! I get it!�h (Kira)

Having been forced to face her own blunder, Kira was a little upset. But she knew better than to blame others.

�gNano. I might need your help with this.�h (Kira)

{I understand. I�fll make sure you don�ft overeat so much.}

�g... Thanks.�h (Kira)

Kira had to face the reality of her being a glutton. The reality that she had gained weight. It was a problem that
needed to be addressed.

�gHm? Kira? Something wrong?�h (Ellie)

Ellie was so engrossed in the feeling of wrapping herself around Kira, that she didn�ft even realize there was a
problem.

�gNothing I can�ft handle.�h (Kira)

*Smooch*

�gGood night Ellie, Nano.�h (Kira)

�gGood night Kira! Good night Nano!�h (Ellie)

{You girls sleep tight.}

Kira closed her eyes and reaffirmed her determination. Her reasons for wanting to lose weight were entirely related
to her occupation. Being an adventurer was demanding on the body. Even if mages were typically not as strong as
warriors or as quick as scouts and spies, hey still had to keep themselves fit. Long treks and intense combat were
both a regular occurrence after all.

It had nothing to do with the fact that Kira wanted to look her absolute best for the sake of a certain special
someone.

This and that are completely unrelated. (Kira)

Chapter 13 - A rock landing in a small pond is bound to make a lot of
waves - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gAll right�c here I go!�h (Kira)

�gYou can do it, Kira!�h (Ellie)

�g-------------- [Null Gravity]�h (Kira

A transparent bubble expands rapidly out of Kira�fs staff.

It passes through me and balloons out to a 10 meter radius!

I feel my feet leave the ground!

�gWha- Eep! This is a bit scary!�h (Kira)

�gKira! You did it!�h (Ellie)

Kira just created a brand new spell!

A spell that didn�ft exist before!

�gWah! I�fm floating! Ellieee!�h (Kira)

I use my [Telekinesis] to gently guide her closer to me.

�gAh! Oh, it�fs you, right? Thanks for that, I panicked for a moment there...�h (Kira)

�gBut Kira! To think you actually created new magic! Isn�ft that amazing!?�h (Ellie)

�gHuhuhu! That�fs right, I�fm pretty amazing, aren�ft I?�h (Kira)

�gYeah! This is great!�h (Ellie)

I spin myself around slightly!

I always found Zero-G to be super fun!

It�fs also really effective in combat.

Whenever I had to board a ship, Nano would turn off the artificial gravity after gaining access to their system.

No matter how well trained they are, nobody is truly prepared for Zero-G that comes out of nowhere.

And if you�fre caught unprepared, the only thing left for you is to float until you hit a wall.

It�fs a great distraction for getting in close and taking out enemy combatants!

�gBut Kira, how did you know this sensation?�h (Ellie)

From Kira�fs lectures, I remember that a big part of magic is the mental image.

If you know the �efeeling�f of the effect you want to produce, you can shape it into magic.
Saying the name of the spell helps reinforce that mental image as well.

It is possible to do the so-called �echantless�f casting, but the power manifested is only about a tenth of the
normal spell.

While silent casting has definite advantages, the loss of power makes it too weak for it be useful.

�gWell, I remembered back in Runetap, when I saw Ellie and Nano cr- I mean, land. There was a brief moment
where me and everything else around me floated in a weird manner.�h (Kira)

�gWow! To think you actually turned that into a positive experience!�h (Ellie)

�gDon�ft be silly Ellie. Of course it was a good thing. It�fs what led me to you, isn�ft it?�h (Kira)

Kira smiles while floating upside down.

The way Kira�fs red hair spreads out like tendrils is really mysterious�c

�gI�fm not sure how useful this will be though.�h (Kira)

{There are plenty of uses for a Zero-G field like this. Although none of them really apply to our little household.}

�gI see�c Well, the spell needs to be refined anyway.�h (Kira)

�gRefined?�h (Ellie)

�gYeah. I need to straighten out the mental image and fix the mana distribution. The way the enchantment spreads
through the air like this is acceptable, but maybe applying it to an object rather than a mana-field would be better.
There�fs also the issue of whether it would work better as an active or passive spell. The Archmage would
probably help with the Lumbor coefficient that Gravity magic like this- Huh?�h (Kira)

The Zero-G field suddenly disappeared and Kira was upside down!

�gOof!�h (Kira)

�gKira, are you okay?!�h (Ellie)

Kira fell on one shoulder and rolled across the grass safely!

�gI�fm fine. That just startled me.�h (Kira)

Still, to recover so smoothly from that sudden shift in gravity...

As expected - Kiramazing.

Hmm? Me?

I just twisted my body and landed on all fours without much hastle.

�gKira! Do it again! I want to pl- I mean. I should teach you how to move around properly!�h (Ellie)

It�fs not playing, okay?

It�fs serious training and preparation.

�gAlright, why not? I need to get better at this if I�fm to show it off!�h (Kira)

{Speaking of which, are you sure it�fs okay to do it tomorrow, Kira?}

�gHuh? Why wouldn�ft it?�h (Kira)

{It�fs barely been two weeks. Isn�ft this too soon?}

�gIt�fs fine. Ellie�fs a really good listener after all. I�fm sure it�fll be a really good experience for everyone
involved!�h (Kira)

***

We�fve been traveling for 3 hours now.

Leaving before dawn was a good idea.

Now we�fll have plenty of time to finish our errands once we get there!

Making our way on foot like this is slow, but it can�ft be helped.

We�fre carrying too much luggage to fly or run after all.

�gKira, you think this will be fine?�h (Ellie)

�gOf course! Ellie is diligent and honest, you�fll fit right in!�h (Kira)

Kira declared the cultural lessons over yesterday night.

We went over a lot of things in these two weeks.

It�fs not everything, but I should be able to get around without getting lost.

Well, Kira will be doing most of the talking anyway.

I just have to, as Kira put it, �fsit there and look pretty.�f

Hehehe, she called me pretty!

It makes me happy.

I feel pretty too.

We ran into Picorio and the Short Baldy a few times with Nano�fs help.

Since we killed so many monsters, we traded some of our spoils with Picorio.

We got some of his soaps and shampoos.

Kira was right, they really smell fantastic!

At first it was a bit overwhelming though.

I couldn�ft pick out Kira�fs unique scent among the flowery fragrances.

But I got used to it now, so there�fs no problem!

That Picorio, he�fs actually a decent person.

Kira doesn�ft think of him as a friend though, just an acquaintance.

Hopefully Kira and me will be able to make some friends in the city of Runetap.
If one friend can make me this happy, then having more of them would be-

Huh�c

Somehow, the idea of getting more friends like Kira feels wrong.

That can�ft be though, right?

Ah, I�fm probably just uneasy.

�gSay Ellie. Are you sure you�fre okay?�h (Kira)

Ack!

I was seen through immediately!

As expected of Kira!

�gI�fm a little nervous. I�fm not�c good with strangers.�h (Ellie)

�gIt�fs okay, just stick with me and everything will be fine.�h (Kira)

�gOkay!�h (Ellie)

If Kira takes care of it, then it will all work out for sure, right?!

Yep, seems logical.

�gBut what about your head?�h (Kira)

�gHm?�h (Ellie)

�gWon�ft it hurt from too much [Star Magic]? I lost it completely when it happened to me�c�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs fine. I�fm used to it so I can deal with it.�h (Ellie)

It�fs important to just let the unimportant thoughts wash over you like a light rain.

If you try to force them out like Kira, your head will hurt.

�g...�h (Kira)

Kira is looking at me with a difficult face.

�gThere�fs something else, isn�ft there?�h (Ellie)

�gI said I have a bad reputation, right? I don�ft want Ellie to hear those things.�h (Kira)

�gHuh? But all I have to do is break their arms until they stop, right?�h (Ellie)

�gNo, that�fs exactly what I don�ft want to happen! Please don�ft break any arms!�h (Kira)

�gOkay. Legs it is.�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs not the issue! Actually no, that�fs an entirely different issue�c�h (Kira)

Kira sighs deeply with a tired expression.

Maybe Kira�fs not feeling well?

�gLook, I�fm happy you want to defend me-�h (Kira)

�gEhehehe.�h (Ellie)

�g-but doing that sort of thing is bad. It will look like you attacked them unprovoked, you�fll just get branded a
criminal and get chased out of the city!�h (Kira)

I see, Kira is worried I�fll cause too much of a disturbance and hurt a lot of people.

Even though it�fs their own fault for being rude.

�gAs long as it�fs only thoughts and words, please do your best to ignore them.�h (Kira)

�g... ignoring all that would be difficult though.�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs why I want you to promise me not to use [Star Magic] unless someone threatens us directly. You�fre
still too impulsive�c�h (Kira)

�gUuuu, I don�ft like it, but if Kira says so, then I promise.�h (Ellie)

Kira lets out another sigh.

I guess Kira really isn�ft feeling too great.

�gSay, how come you don�ft mind mind it at home? I mean, you can�ft hear my thoughts, right?�h (Kira)

Kira touches the earpiece on her ear.

�gThat�fs because I trust Kira. You�fre pretty amazing and amazingly pretty!�h (Ellie)

�gD-D-Don�ft suddenly blurt things out like that! It�fs embarrassing!�h (Kira)

Kira protests with a red face.

But, Kira, you still looks a little happy.

�gAh! Look Ellie, we�fre out of the forest!�h (Kira)

�gHmm? OH! Is that it?!�h (Ellie)

The thick forest suddenly gave way to a vast plain.

A city surrounded by a massive circular stone wall on all sides!

�gThat�fs right! That�fs the city of Runetap!�h (Kira)

To the city of Runetap!

Kira�fs home!

I�fm so excited!

And I just can�ft hide it!

Wait�c
�gKira�c Why are there so many corpses around?�h (Ellie)

It took me a while to notice, but there�fs a whole lot of dead bodies around!

There must be hundreds!

�gHmm? Ah, monster invasion. Don�ft worry about it, these happen all the time. The City Guard takes care of it
though.�h (Kira)

�gO-Okay. Those seem like a lot, though...�h (Ellie)

{156 orcs, 192 goblins, 75 trolls and 37 giant wolf corpses. These City Guard guys are impressive, huh?}

�gThey are but�c that really is quite a lot! Usually they�fre no more than a hundred monsters! Maybe a hundred
and change!�h (Kira)

{It doesn�ft seem to have been all at once. Some of those corpses seem to have been here for a while, but some of
them seem to be as recent as yesterday. Possibly this morning.}

�gSo it wasn�ft a massive attack, but rather several smaller waves huh?�h (Kira)

�gIs that unusual?�h (Ellie)

�gIt is. Usually monster invasions happen when they breed too much and try to expand their territory. Something
like them coming in waves is unheard of. Actually Ellie, what do you think happened here?�h (Kira)

�gHm? Me?�h (Ellie)

�gYes, this is a good opportunity. Consider it a test! Determining the cause of things like this are also part of being
an adventurer, after all�h (Kira)

�gAh, I see! Hmm�c�h (Ellie)

Monsters have two states when it comes to people or other monsters - fear or anger.

Usually the monsters in this forest attack aggressively and relentlessly.

There�fs absolutely no reason or rationality behind their actions.

So them moving in on the city like this must be some extremely basic instinct.

Kira says it doesn�ft seem to have been �efight�f so then, how about �eflight?�f

�gMaybe they were running away from something much scarier than them?�h (Ellie)

�gI was thinking something like that too. But what could cause such a mass exodus? Something must have riled
them up recently.�h (Kira)

�gMaybe it�fs some terrifyingly gigantic monster?!�h (Ellie)

�gNo, we�fd notice something like that. Anything terrifying enough to chase away hundreds of monsters like this
is bound to be easy�c to�c notice�c�h (Kira)

That�fs strange, Kira�fs face suddenly became cramped.

Did Kira remember something big that happened recently?

Something terrifying and easy to notice, right?

I wouldn�ft know anything like that though.

After all, me and Nano only just arrived here two-

�c

�gKira�c Isn�ft this our fault?�h (Ellie)

It�fs extremely likely.

We did spend the better part of the last two weeks systematically hunting these particular species of monster.

Kira�fs increasingly cramping smile suggests she thinks the same.

�gOh well! It�fs our loss if we mind it!�h (Kira)

�gYeah�c�h (Ellie)
Chapter 14 - Breaking the ice is important in a new relationship, just
make sure you do it carefully - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

We walk up to the city gates.

Since I made a promise with Kira, I turn off my [Telepathy].

As expected, I feel uneasy.

But Kira is here so I'm a bit relieved.

We approach the gate guards.

When they see us, they raise their guard and glare at us with suspicion.

"Hello Rupert." (Kira)

Kira calls out to the guard with a round face.

"Miss Quasse?" (Guard)

"I'm here to apologize and turn myself in. I'll cooperate, so please be lenient." (Kira)

Rupert looks over both of us.

"... That's awfully obedient of you." (Guard)

"This time was partly my fault, so I'm here to take responsibility." (Kira)

"What about your friend there?" (Guard)

Rupert tilts his head in my direction.

"This is Ellie. She's ... involved in what happened.

She gets really nervous if we're separated, so please bring her along." (Kira)

Rupert glares at me, then turns back to Kira.

"That... how nervous are we talking?" (Guard)

"That is, um..." (Kira)

Kira seems at a loss for words.

Let's back her up a little.

"If you take Kira away from me, I will break your arms and legs." (Ellie)

"!" (Guard)
The two guard tense up.

"Pff, pahahaha!" (Guard)

They start laughing for some reason.

It was a serious threat you know.

"This little miss is terrifying, isn't she?" (Guard)

They're clearly looking down on me.

Don't underestimate adventurers!

Ah, but I'm not an adventurer yet.

At least they don't look like they want to attack us anymore.

"Right, I'm sorry about that, Ellie was it?

I understand, but if you go together, I need to arrest you too. Are you fine with that?" (Guard)

"Yes." (Ellie)

"Then my bones will be healthy today as well, eh?" (Guard)

A few more guards come out and bind our wrists with shackles.

They ask us to disarm, so Kira hands over her staff.

I don�ft like disarming outside of our home though.

I trust Kira, so I'll do it.

But I can't trust these people at all.

I take off my belt, sword and my (visible) throwing knives.

However, one of the guards was eyeing them with envy.

I'll make sure to break his wrists if he runs off with something.

***

The guards took me and Kira to the guard captain's office.

We sat in front of his desk while he was working on some papers.

He has no hair and his face is covered in scars.

This is not a face that has lived an honest life.

The kind of person that will put you in a headlock for no reason.
He kept switching his gaze between me and Kira.

Somehow, Kira's face kept cramping up.

Kira was actually nervous.

Was this uncle such a formidable enemy?

Having decided something, he stood up.

This is bad.

That ice cold stare is bad!

We're still shackled so resistance will be limited.

We must watch for signs of weakness and escape!

He walked around, stood in front of Kira and with a sudden movement-

"Yo Crackhead, howsit hangin'? *slap* " (Captain)

-started vigorously slapping Kira's shoulder with a stupid smile on his face.

"Still kickin' yea? *slap*" (Captain)

Ah I see.

"Ya been gone awhile so I was worried! *slap*" (Captain)

I was naive.

"Ya need ta visit more! *slap*" (Captain)

This is not an enemy I can handle.

"C'mon don't be such a stranger! *slap*" (Captain)

Lieutenant Kira is already down!

"Liven up a lil'! *slap*" (Captain)

Escape route C-55 was compromised!

"Oi, somethin' up with yer lil' friend over here?" (Captain)

We're abandoning explosives and food!

"Kaaahahaha! Don't be so nervous, little miss!" (Captain)

Rendezvous at point Alpha!

*slap*
*snap*

"GYAAAAAAA!" (Captain)

I broke his arm on reflex.

Chapter 15 - Emergency units can always react fast because they do
drills endlessly - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I messed up.

"AAAUUGH!" (Captain)

The guard captain was rolling around on the ground.

"AAARGH! MY ARM!" (Captain)

Yep, it was blue and bent at a weird angle.

"MEDIC! CODE K-15!" (Captain)

*Slam*

"Captain!" (Medic)

Three soldiers slam the door open and run inside.

Ah it's over.

My peaceful new life is over!

"You two, hold him steady!" (Medic)

Two of them hold down the writhing captain on the floor.

" -- [Anesthetic] --- [Lesser Heal] --- [Mend Bone] ------- [Greater Heal]"

Me and Kira are completely ignored as the medic works.

Kira is just sitting there with a calm smile.

A minute or so later, the treatment is done.

The captain is passed out on the ground.

The two soldiers who were holding him down, stand up.

All three of them congratulate each other on a job well done.

They greet Kira with a nod on their way out.

*Slam*

The door is closed.

...
Kira bends down and pokes the captain a few times.

...

There's no response.

Just like a corpse.

Kira stands back up.

"Well, then." (Kira)

Kira walks over to the door and opens it slightly.

"Excuse me, miss secretary? Can we get some tea, please?" (Kira)

"Just a sec, dearie!" (Secretary)

"Thank you!" (Kira)

Kira walks back to the desk and sits down.

Yeah, tea sounds good right now.

***

"Ahahaha, I lost! Ya got me good missy!" (Captain)

The captain woke up in the middle of our tea break.

"Ohh, the medic did a good job!" (Captain)

He moves his arm around a bit.

"I'll treat 'im to a drink later!" (Captain)

What's with this loud, carefree uncle.

"Excuse me, guard captain." (Ellie)

"What's up missy?" (Captain)

"I'm not 'missy' I'm Ellie." (Ellie)

"Ellie! Sucha cute name fer a such a lil' monster!" (Captain)

*Twitch*

I think I was insulted!

This is bad.

I'll get dragged into his pace again.

Let's splendidly ignore that comment ask my question.

"What's going on here?" (Ellie)

"Huh?" (Captain)

Don't 'HUH' me!

"That, I assaulted an officer of the guard. Isn't that bad?" (Ellie)

"Ah that? It was self-defense right?

A strange man tried to put his hands on you, so you fought back. Nothin' wrong with that.

If you ask me, just a broken arm is too lenient for guys like that!" (Captain)

He waves his previously broken arm at me with an 'all good, all good' attitude.

"Besides, this sort of thing happens a lot. Every time ol' Crackhead drops by, someone gets injured.

Well, it's usually me though." (Captain)

Come to think of it, it's good there was a medic around.

Wait... no that's not possible right?

"Was that medic is on standby just because we were here?" (Ellie)

"The lil' monster sure catches on quick doesn't she?

Kaaaahahahaha!" (Captain)

That isn't something to be proud about!

"It's your loss if you mind it." (Kira)

"B-B-But, Kira, this-" (Ellie)

"It's your loss if you mind it." (Kira)

"..." (Ellie)

"It's your loss if you mind it." (Kira)

Kira is talking to nobody in particular while nodding.

Ah I see.

So this is how Kira became so adaptable.

"Ellie, please don't look at me with pitying eyes..." (Kira)

***
A little while later once we all calmed down-

"So who is this loudmouth?" (Ellie)

"L-l-loudmouth?" (Captain)

"Ellie, meet Guard Captain Olboun. We somehow got acquainted. He's like that but his skill and position are real."

"Whats up with that lame introduction? The lil' monster will think I'm a good fer nothin' old man?" (Olboun)

You mean you're not?

"You mean you're not?" (Kira)

Kira delivers a critical blow with no remorse!

"Urk!" (Olboun)

Olboun made a pathetic noise.

Huh, wait a second.

"Olboun? Is that short of Old Boisterous Uncle?" (Ellie)

"Blerg!" (Olboun)

He made another noise.

"Ohhh! Way to go Ellie! You realized it right away!" (Kira)

The door opens up and a lady with a worried face peeks inside.

It's the secretary that made us tea.

"Girls, please stop bullying Olboun..." (Secretary)

Ah, this is just bullying isn't it?

Let's apologize properly.

"I'm sorry, I was shocked at how pathetic he was and got carried away." (Ellie)

"Uwaa, Ellie really doesn't know how to hold back huh?" (Kira)
Chapter 16 - Anyone would be angry if you keep insulting their favorite
thing - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Guard Captain Olboun PoV <

I finally recovered from missy's dreadful attack.

Lil' Ellie is particularly brutal.

Okay, calm down me.

Time to show off the dignity of my office!

"Well as I was tryin' to say.

That lil' incident a few weeks ago raised a lot of fuss.

A great big somethin' falls out of the sky and what do those folks do?

Complain. About ol' Crackhead here. I mean she probably saved their freakin' lives." (Olboun)

I shake my head in disbelief and give a shrug.

I look at the girl in question with a calm expression.

"So ya crushed a church or two, big deal! No one got hurt and the crown's footin' the bill so we're all good.

It's just a K-12 violation, so at most we were gonna hold ya fer a days." (Olboun)

She's been blamed fer worse and it's always hot air.

The investigations are always a waste of time and resources.

But protocol says we gotta at least pretend we�fre lookin�f at these cases.

"Anyway, we confiscated yer stuff fer ya since the inn complained. It's in the usual place." (Olboun)

I glance down at the documents on my desk.

Ugh, I have to finish this paperwork by today.

"Actually Olboun, I had one more thing to talk about.

I'm going to register Ellie as my disciple in the guild, can you processes the papers?" (Crackhead)

"Ohoho! Is that so?" (Olboun)

This troublemaker finally a friend!

Or should I say, as expected of 'the city where anything can happen' ?

Maybe she'll finally be able to settle down.

Haha, such a day won't come though.

"Alright, gimme a sec." (Olboun)

I dig around my desk fer the right form. It's just a few short questions but it's important fer immigrants.

***

After about ten minutes, the results are....

------------------------------------------------------------------
Background confirmation form BG-K

Name: Ellie
Race: Felis
Sex: F
Age: 17
Hair: Blue
Eyes: Red / Blue
Special features: Cat-like eyes
Birthplace: Unknown
Father: Unknown
Mother: Unknown
Siblings: Unknown
Spouse: None
Known affiliations: Kiressara mil Quasse
Previous offenses: None
Character evaluation: Unexpectedly mean. Merciless. Good kid overall.
Inspector: Guard Captain Olboun, Runetap
------------------------------------------------------------------

Yup, nothin' out of the ordinary.

Actually, I never heard of these 'Felis' fellas. Maybe she fell out of the sky too? Well it's none of my business
anyway.

I put my stamp and signature on the document and hand it over to lil' Ellie.

She looks it over and stares at me with doubtful eyes.

"... is this okay?" (Ellie)

"Is what okay?" (Olboun)

"Well, some of this is a little..." (Ellie)

"Ah that, it's fine. This is Runetap ya know? We get kids like ya all the time.

Nobody really reads these anyway, they just look at the stamp.

Besides, me and Crackhead will back ya up if someone complains." (Olboun)

My word carries a lot of weight ya know? If I say yer a "good kid" then nobody will mind it.
I got an eye fer people, and I can tell Ellie and Crackhead treasure each other.

I'm curious about her face, but I'm not going to ask her to remove that mask. Might be some horrible scars
underneath.

"He's right, Ellie. It's pretty hard to confirm all that stuff anyway.

I don't agree with the 'Character evaluation', but it's THIS person, so just let it slide..." (Crackhead)

"Urk, Crackhead, please, spare me from any more today..." (Olboun)

This girl backs me up with one sentence and ambushes me with the next. She's harsh like usual.

Well, I know she doesn't really mean it. Probably.

"By the way, Olboun, could you stop using that awful nickname already?!" (Crackhead)

Ah, it's this argument again.

I can't help it ya know, it's already a habit.

"I agree with Kira. That nickname is rude." (Ellie)

Ellie backs her up as expected, huh?

What's with that monotone though?

Oh? Actually...

Hmm, that one's not bad.

It's oddly fitting. Let's borrow it.

"All right, then how about I call you K-" (Olboun)

The words freeze in my throat.

No, actually, they were caught.

By Ellie's iron grip.

She's crouching down on top of my desk.

When did she even-

"Hey, Old Boisterous Uncle." (Ellie)

Her voice is dripping with ice.

What is this pressure?

"There's a limit to being cocky." (Ellie)

T-t-those eyes!

The vertical pupils are narrowed into thin lines.

It feels like they're staring into my soul!

"If I find out you dared to sully Kira's name with that filthy tongue-" (Ellie)

She holds up a small black blade.

Where did that even come from?

"-or that you called her anything other than 'Madam'-" (Ellie)

She presses the flat of the cold blade against my cheek.

"-then I shall immediately remove the offensive organ." (Ellie)

Cold sweat is pouring out of me.

This girl is serious!

"Are we clear?" (Ellie)

"Y-y-yy-" (Olboun)

It's hard to breathe! I can't answer! I'll be killed at this rate!

"Are. We. CLEAR?" (Ellie)

"YES!" (Olboun)

"Good." (Ellie)

I'm released, but my breathing won't calm down.

Ellie jumps off my desk

"Come Kira, let's go get your stuff!" (Ellie)

"Hiii! I mean, okay..." (Crackhead)

She calmly walks towards the door.

As if the previous atmosphere was a joke.

What's wrong with these people?

" *cough cough* Hey! *cough* Hold on a second! *cough cough*" (Olboun)

Are they planning to just leave after that?

I may be easy going but this is too much!

"Hey! Cra-" (Olboun)

*Ffwit THUD*

Something just flew past my head and embedded itself into the wall behind me.

"MADAM! I MEANT MADAM!

I'M SORRY! I GOT COCKY!

IT WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN SO PLEASE FORGIVE ME!" (Olboun)

I reflexively groveled.

I'm bowing my head so low I think my neck will break.

I don't dare look up.

I can feel those eyes crushing my heart.

"Good." (Ellie)

*Slam*
Side Story - Codes are a useful tool for efficiently exchanging
information - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Corporal Simmons PoV <

"Simmons!" (Sergeant)

The sergeant on duty enters the guard barracks while shouting my name.

"Sir!" (Simmons)

I reply while standing at attention. I hear my squad doing the same behind me.

"You're on, get ready!" (Sergeant)

Finally, huh?

We've already had two consecutive cases of K-7. So this was bound to happen soon.

"The usual K-2, sir?" (Simmons)

I ask to confirm the details, but the sergeant shakes his head.

"Negative, it's a rare K-18. However, this time there's an extra, so we need to be prudent.

You're to be on stand-by at the scene once the target enters the hot zone." (Sergeant)

"Yes sir!" (Simmons)

I reply to the sergeant and he leaves the room.

"Peters! Hart!" (Simmons)

""Yes sir!"" (Peters and Hart)

Two men from my squad reply to me as I call them out.

"You're with me! We're moving in with the assumption that a K-10 or K-15 will occur. However, there's an extra so
K-16 is also possible.

Get your gear ready and move out!" (Simmons)

***

We're on location, just outside the hot zone.

"I don't like it, sir, it's too quiet." (Peters)

"I agree with Peters, sir." (Hart)

The two whisper their concerns.

"I know how you feel, but we have to lay low. Our presence is more likely to cause a situation than prevent
it." (Simmons)

""Sir!"" (Peters and Hart)

They both reply in a quiet voice, but Hart's eyes are swimming.

It's his first [K] so he's worried.

"Calm down private. Just stick to your training!" (Simmons)

"Yes sir!" (Hart)

He visibly steels himself. Good lad, he'll go far in this place.

Suddenly we overhear a muffled voice from the hot zone.

I strain my ears to listen in.

"AAAUUGH!" (Muffled voice)

The two behind me jump slightly at the sudden scream.

"Steady lads!" (Simmons)

I caution them quickly while raising my hand.

"AAARGH! MY ARM!" (Muffled voice)

The screams continue, but the situation is unknown, so we can't move.

Wait for it...

"MEDIC! CODE K-15!" (Muffled voice)

"Move!" (Simmons)

*Slam!*

We run inside the office.

"Captain!" (Simmons)

***

*Slam*

We close the door and I turn to the secretary's desk outside it.

"Miss secretary, we're done for now. The captain will wake up shortly." (Simmons)

"Thank you for your hard work as usual, Simmons.

Don't worry about the K-15 form, I'll have the captain handle it." (Secretary)
"Much obliged." (Simmons)

I express my gratitude and address my squad.

" [K] is still in the hot-zone, so don't lower your guard!

We still have a job to do!" (Simmons)

""Sir!"" (Peters and Hart)

***

There was some more shouting and screaming a little later.

Since the captain didn't call out to us, we stayed put.

In the end no further incidents were reported.

We head back to the barracks and I quickly debrief my men.

Afterwards, I find myself staring blankly at a memo nailed to the wall.

------------------------------------------------------------------
Code designations for common incidents relating to individual: Kiressara mil Quasse

K-1 Dragged a monster's corpse through the street

K-2 Caused a disturbance at the gate
K-3 Caused a disturbance at the guild
K-4 Subdued a pickpocket with excessive force
K-5 Injured the blacksmith for sexual harassment
K-6 Incinerated defamatory materials in the street
K-7 More than a week has passed without a Code K incident
K-8 Accused of causing nightmares through magic
K-9 Direct property damage using magical means
K-10 Direct property damage using physical means
K-11 Indirect property damage
K-12 Property damage caused while saving lives
K-13 Property damage caused while intoxicated
K-14 Taken in for vagrancy
K-15 Inflicted heavy physical trauma through self-defense
K-16 Inflicted heavy psychological trauma through self-defense
K-17 Scratched a cat-folk citizen behind the ears for too long
K-18 Willingly submitted to the city guard
------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 17 - Treat clerks with patience and respect - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
Treat clerks with patience and respect - yelling at them simply wastes everyone's time

> Ellie PoV <

We leave the Old Boisterous Uncle's office.

"Ellie, you went too far!"

"But Kira hates that name, right?"

"Well, yes, I do, but Olboun didn't mean anything by it!"

"That's no excuse."

Even if that's true, I will not allow it.

"He needs to properly atone for his actions."

"Anyway, I'm telling you that was too much!"

Kira is too kind after all.

Kira needs to firmly stand up to these people.

But how do I convince Kira?

"... but I don't want Kira to hurt anymore..."

I use my secret technique!

"Uuuuu, I can't complain when you look at me like that...

Maybe you're right, I should've been a bit stricter with him."

Great success!

I don't like using this technique, but it's necessary for times like this.

I'm glad I practiced it.

We pick up our luggage on the way out of the barracks.

***

The Adventurer's Guild.

It's a large two-story building.

The first floor are the restaurant, receptionist and request board.
It's huge, you can probably fit 300 people in here and have room to spare.

The second floor is mostly study materials and utility rooms open to members.

We're here so I can register.

"Good day."

"Ah, welcome back Miss Quasse. I've not seen you around."

An old gentleman greets us from behind a counter.

He must be a receptionist.

His face is twitching for some reason.

"Yes, well, things happened.

Anyway, first I want to turn in proof of subjugation."

Kira hands over a bag filled with monster parts.

It's mostly Goblin ears, Troll jawbones and Orc snouts from the forest.

If adventurers turn in trophies like this, they get a bounty from the guild.

The receptionist receives the bag and passes it to an assistant.

But doing things like this does not count towards rank promotion.

Since it�fs hard to verify who killed what.

"Is there anything else?"

"Yes, I want to register this girl as my disciple."

The receptionist was surprised.

What's with that sneer?

It's a completely reasonable request, right?

Adventurers normally start out at the bottom - Rank G.

But since Kira will be my teacher, I can start at the same rank as Kira - Rank C.

This is so both of the teacher and disciple can work together right away.

However, the teacher stakes their reputation and their money on the disciple.

If the disciple fails a job, gets badly injured or killed, the teacher will be blamed.

Punishments from the guild include fines, demotions, expulsion and even imprisonment.
The teacher must also pay for any damages caused by their disciple.

Since the risk is high, disciples are rare.

Once a number of commissions are complete, the disciple contract is terminated.

The former disciple is then considered a full-fledged adventurer.

***

Filling out the documents took about 30 minutes.

The receptionist kept finding problems with the forms.

So we had to re-do them several times.

But I don't mind.

It's good he's thorough.

Unlike a certain guard captain.

When we finished with those, they said they need some of my blood.

What's with that creepy requirement?

However, since Kira said it was fine, then it must be fine.

I let them have a few drops.

After a few minutes they hand me my brand new adventurer's card.

It's a rectangular white piece of metal that fits in my palm.

This is a universally accepted form of identification.

It's impossible to make without the person being present at a guild.

Their blood was used during the engraving process.

If someone else held this card, it would turn red.

What's with that creepy effect?

But, since it prevents identity theft, I won't mind it.

I read the engraving on the face of my card.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Ellie
Titles:
Team: Black Flame
Position: Scout
Rank: C
Status: Disciple (Kiressara mil Quasse)
--------------------------------------------------------------

[Black Flame] is the team we made with Kira.

I'm a bit disappointed with the position of scout.

I wanted something cool like ninja or assassin.

Unfortunately, those were impossible.

And finally my status as Kira's disciple.

Seeing it written down made me a little happy.

I also asked Kira to show me her adventurer's card.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Kiressara mil Quasse
Titles: Red Sage
Team: Black Flame
Position: Support
Rank: C
Status: Active
--------------------------------------------------------------

Titles are special awards given out by the guild for notable achievements.

Kira earned [Red Sage] by being amazing at magic.

Apparently there are only four people in the guild recognized as sages.

Other than Kira, there's also a [Black Sage], a [White Sage] and a [Green Sage].

The colors in the name are just decoration.

What's with that pointless distinction?

Chapter 18 - Being able to turn something off and back on again is a
vital part of modern life - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

With our business in the guild finished, we leave.

We walk at a relaxing pace towards the middle of the city.

"Hey, Ellie."

Kira whispers with a worried face.

"Nano's been quiet for a while now."

"That's a bit strange, isn't it?"

I close my eyes and tilt my head in thought.

Nano has been silent ever since we entered the city.

Nobody else can hear Nano, so it's not like Nano is being shy.

"Maybe Nano broke again?"

"Eh? Nano can break? And what do you mean 'again'?"

"It used to happen a lot.

Nano got better at it though."

"That sounds horrible! Doesn't it hurt?!"

Kira really does worry a lot about people.

"Ah, but Nano isn't a person."

"Oh, that's right isn't it? Still, can we help Nano somehow?"

"Ah no problem I just have to use the, uh, [Star Magic] Revival spell, yes."

I raise my right hand and press my index and middle fingers to my temple.

"<<Priority override. Authorization code D0-N7-M1-ND. Command: Reboot system.>>"

I recite the special words Nano taught me.

It's in our old language, so Kira is looking puzzled.

{<<Access approved.>>}

{<<Stand by.>>}
{<<Reboot complete.>>}

{<<Initializing personality matrix.>>}

{*Tzzt* *Khhhhh* Ahh there we go.}

"Oh it worked! Good job Ellie!

{Yeah, I can think straight again thanks to you.}

{Just, notice earlier next time.}

"That, sorry Nano."

I apologize properly for my blunder.

"What even happened?"

{I lost to that guard with the scary face.}

"Eh, the guard captain? What do you mean you lost?"

{I made a mistake. I tried to mind it.}

"Ah, it was that, after all."

"Can't help it if it's that guy."

Me and Kira nod in agreement.

"He even broke me for a moment."

I confess to Nano.

{As I thought, a formidable enemy indeed.}

"But Ellie got even, so don't be too harsh on him."

{Got even? How?}

"She snapped his arm like a twig."

{WHAT? How can you two walk around so leisurely after assaulting an officer?}

" "You lose if you mind it." "

Me and Kira remind Nano in unison.

{Ahhh, that was dangerous. I almost broke again.}

Good, crisis averted.

I don't like to <<reboot>> Nano.

My body gets a bit numb when I do that.

I'll do it as many times as I need to, but unpleasant things are unpleasant.

***

As we were carefully catching Nano up to speed, we arrived at City Hall.

It's a dull-looking brick building on three floors.

Each floor is about half the size of the guild's.

We go up to the second floor and approach the clerk.

She's a calm-looking woman somewhere in her mid-20s.

"Welcome to City Hall, how can I help you?"

"We're here to build a base."

The clerk immediately understood and went into action.

We show our guild cards, point out the area on a map and pay the fee.

Well, the fee in question was almost nothing.

I suppose there's not much demand for a plot of land in the middle of a monster-infested forest.

The clerk takes out a huge tome, flicks it open and starts scribbling.

"All set!"

Over in two minutes.

People buying land in the middle of nowhere must be common.

Not sure if this is a good or bad thing.

***

It's gotten a bit late, it's almost sunset.

We book a room at an inn, but we head back out.

Kira says there's one more place to visit.

It's the church.

Chapter 19 - Parents need to realize that making their child visit them is
selfish - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I try to recall Kira's lessons while we walk.

This world's religion is split in two.

On one hand is the Church of Enuri.

Don't be mistaken though.

Enuri itsn't a god.

It�fs the name of the sun.

That's what�fs being worshiped.

The priests of Enuri care for the living.

Blessings, healing, orphanages, soup kitchens for the poor.

Charitable things like that.

On the other hand is the Church of Khamis.

Ah, but Khamis isn't a god either.

It's the name of the bigger, yellow-ish moon.

The smaller white one is called Khamis Jr.

These people worship this world's two moons.

The priests of Khamis care for the dead.

Funerals, exorcisms, lifting curses, purification.

Grim things like that.

Since their duties hardly ever overlap, they get along quite well.

We reach the Church of Enuri.

The entrance is a big door with a regular hallway, but the main hall is round.

The domed roof is made mostly of glass.

There are also plenty of windows.

Since the sun is starting to set, the whole place is dyed red.
There's a 3 meter high pedestal in the middle, directly under the glass dome.

On the pedestal is a golden globe with elaborate decorations.

That's obviously the sun.

There are soft carpets arranged in a circle around the pedestal

There's a few people prostrating themselves.

It's unquestionably a dogeza, but the form is sloppy.

They're probably praying.

Kira approaches one of the priests.

His face is wrinkled and his hair and full beard have more than a few traces of white.

"Good day, father."

Kira says in a hushed voice.

"Good day, my child."

The priest responds in kind.

"I need the assistance of the church."

"Very well my child, right this way."

"Thank you father."

The old priest leads us to a side room.

It's some sort of office.

He sits down behind a heavy desk, and me and Kira stand at the foot of it.

The priest starts rubbing his temples with both hands while furrowing his brows.

This pattern is familiar.

I realized what was going on in the adventurer's guild.

Kira has been trying to tease me all day.

Otherwise Kira would warn me properly about all these weird people and procedures.

However, I will not surrender quietly!

I scan the room quickly, I notice a nameplate on the desk.

'Ernest Quasse, Bishop of Enuri'

So they are an actual father and daughter.

But Kira is adopted.

In this country, 'mil' has the meaning of 'taken in by'.

Apparently it has meaning when it comes to inheritance.

Since the church of Enuri is responsible for orphans, it's not uncommon for priests to adopt them.

This is usually done with the hope the orphan will become a priest.

However, Kira is an adventurer, clearly going against her father's wishes.

Therefore, they must be on bad terms.

Fufufufu, you shouldn't underestimate adventurers!

Yes!

I finally got to say it!

With this vital piece of information, Kira's plan is ruined.

And so, after making a sigh, the priest starts things off.

"Alright Kiressara, what is it this time?"

"There's no need for that, father.

I'm here as a resident, not a daughter. It really is church business."

Kira glances sideways at me.

Kira must have been looking forward to my reaction.

But this time is different.

I make sure there is no surprise on my face.

"... Alright, so what can the church do for you?"

"I want to book the main hall two months from now, from dawn until noon."

The priest checks a calendar quickly.

"Okay, there's an available spot. What's the occasion?"

"It's for a marriage ceremony."

The priest starts scribbling something down in a ledger.

Someone's getting married huh?

"Who's the couple?"

The priest asks matter-of-factly without lifting his eyes.

Kira gently embraces me from behind and with the biggest smile I've ever seen-

"Me and Ellie here."

Declares our engagement to the world.

When did that happen?

Chapter 20 - Culture shock isn't a big deal now, but it used to be life
threatening - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

"Me and Ellie here."

My heart leaps up to my throat.

What?

When did this happen!?

I want to ask, but words don't come out!

"WHAT? When did this happen!?"

Thanks old man!

I owe you one!

I'll even forgive that desperate face you're making!

"You see, I found and saved this girl in the forest. She was so grateful she immediately proposed.

It felt like fate so I accepted."

Ah the old priest is at a loss.

Only stupid noises like 'eh' and 'wha' come out.

I stiffly look back at Kira.

"Th-that... When did I propose?"

"My, did you already forget how magnificently you proposed?"

I definitely don't remember doing something like that!

"It was such a wonderful form, I could tell you practiced!"

Does she mean the dogeza?

"You even did it three times in a row!"

It's definitely the dogeza.

"It's the same as saying 'Become my sun and marry me'!"

Mmm, Kira certainly is as brilliant and warm as the sun...

Wait now's not the time for that!

"And when you said you'll take responsibility I fell for you right away!"

Geh, I did say that, didn't I?

"Kyaa, just thinking about it makes me weak in the knees!"

"Hey K-K-Kira! S-stop fidgeting like that!"

Uuu, the warm and fluffy is rubbing against my back.

But, right now, I will not panic.

I must act like an adventurer worthy of being Kira's disciple.

I take being a disciple very seriously.

Therefore, I must be calm.

Ooooooooohm.

Ooooooooohm.

Ooooooooohm.

Fuuuuuu.

Okay, now let's assess the situation.

First, I arrived here.

Then, I met Kira.

I accidentally proposed without knowing.

Kira accepted.

We came here, the truth is revealed.

And here we are.

Looking at it, there's really only one, simple question.

I had found the answer before I even realized.

I just needed the question.

"KIRESSARA MIL QUASSE!"

The priest shouted out, after finally regaining his senses.

He's leaning forward in an accusing manner over his desk.

"Have you completely lost your marbles?!"

What a rude Baldie.

The old me would already be crushing his windpipe.

But, the me right now knows true serenity.

It is right here, by Kira's side.

"You two wanting marriage... it's unprecedented!"

"But father, are there any actual problems here?"

"Problems? Well... that is... huh?"

Oh, his anger went out like a candle in a windstorm.

Kira, good job!

"There's no laws against it..."

He mumbles something and sits down again, clearly thinking it through.

After a while, he looks at us again.

"It's not illegal and the citizens will accept it. Hell, some of them might follow suit.

I mean, it's Runetap after all. Next to a dragon taking a dump on the fort, this sort of thing is nothing."

He chuckles and gives a nod.

"As a Bishop of Enuri, I have no objections."

Baldie, good job!

"However!"

Oh, he wasn't done.

His face is awfully serious.

"As a Father, I want each of you to promise me something."

Uwah, serious-faced Baldie is intense!

What's this unexpected power up?

Is this the rumored Dad Mode?

"Kiressara! I want to see my grandchildren!

I'm not asking for the impossible, just adopt one after the ceremony.

A girl! A cute one that will giggle and call me 'grandpa' with a squeal!"
Geh!

This Baldie made some outrageous demand after all!

"Yes! Leave it to me!"

Immediate reply.

Kira's beaming smile says she's looking forward to it.

I'm a bit uneasy though.

"Ellie! Make my daughter happy!"

That's it?

"What are you saying?

I'll do that with or without your permission!

You damned Baldie!"

"B-b-baldie?"

Why is his face cramping up?

"Haaah..."

Kira sighed behind me.

Did I make a blunder?

{Ellie, you have to show respect to your bride's father. So don't call him Baldie.}

I see, I made a blunder.

Nano's right, that was bad of me.

I have to treat Bal- I mean, Esteemed Father, better.

At least this time the uproar ended without someone breaking an arm.

Let's call it a win for the new me.

Chapter 21 - Most nightly activities are illegal once there is no consent -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

In a city like Runetap, trouble flows as freely as money.

And a certain underground crime syndicate contributed to both.

Although they were smaller than others, their profits were not.

Their leader, Gix, had very high standards. In equipment, skills and reputation, his men were superior in every way.
Truly a gathering of professionals.

The city guard knew about them, but could not oppose them. The guards had their hands full with just the day-to-
day. There simply wasn't enough manpower to deal with Gix.

And so, Gix and his little empire grew rich. They had their fingers in every bowl in the city. One of those fingers,
was a guard at the south gate.

***

On that fateful day, a certain guard noticed an odd pair of women entering the city.

They turned themselves in and met with the captain.

They walked out with all their stuff and no charges a while later.

It was unusual - obviously a deal was made. Details were unknown, but that was unimportant.

What WAS important was their gear. Pristine armor and expensive looking weapons.

The mole in the city guard leaked this information to Gix's bunch.

The marks were stalked and investigated and they concluded several things.

First of all, one of the women was the infamous 'Crackhead magician'.

'The face is good but the head is bad.'

They ignored her before because she was always struggling for money. It wasn't worth the risk. But now she showed
up with a mysterious companion.

A smaller, quieter girl.

Both of them had brand new gear. Judging from their spending spree, they had a sizable sum with them.

The 'Crackhead' was always near bankruptcy so they deduced it to be the smaller girl's money. Probably a rich brat
that ran away from home to be an adventurer.

It was a common story, and a tasty target. The looney mage was probably just there to take advantage of the brat's
money.
In other words, they were taking a bite out of Gix's pie.

Gix gave the order to grab them both.

***

When they saw their marks enter the church, the thieves waited outside.

The women left well after dark. The pitch black street was a perfect place to get robbed.

Yet these two were loudly chatting and playing around.

The Crackhead had even used a magic light. It made the area around them brighter, but the contrast made the
darkness beyond that even deeper. It also made them a visible target.

In short - they were being idiots.

Picking the right time, the attack started with a distraction.

One of the thugs pretended to be a stumbling drunk and walked near them. He would then make himself a nuisance.

One of the women was asking him to go away, while the other one hid behind.

His colleagues sprang out at once and rushed the two. At a crucial moment, the 'drunk' used a smoke bomb. The
smoke obstructed their vision and doubled as a knock-out gas.

Naturally the assailants made sure to cover their faces.

The mage was disoriented, while the small girl was unaffected. This was expected - her face was also covered. The
plan was to separate them and overwhelm them with numbers. No matter their looks, it's not good to underestimate
adventurers.

All the thieves aimed at the mage. One managed to grab her by the arm and simultaneously activate his [Rift Key].

He and the mage disappeared from the scene.

***

The [Rift Key] was an expensive magic item that looked like a white fist-sized stone.

By pouring mana and chanting the keyword, the spell inside activated. It would transport a person and everything
they're touching to a predetermined location within 1 kilometer. It had a weight limit that made it possible to transfer
two people at once.

In this instance, it was one of Gix's storehouses.

A criminal and an adventurer appeared out of thin air inside an open cell. The adventurer, Kiressara mil Quasse, was
under the effect of the knockout gas. She would pass out shortly.

As her captor left her in the cell, he heard her mutter-

"... please... don't... kill... th..."

He turned around and sneered.

"Don't worry, we won't kill your friend. She has more value alive."

Little did he know, those words weren't begging for Ellie's life.

But for his.

***

Suddenly separated from her fiance, Ellie was overcome with rage.

She had already subdued one of the attackers and was about to gouge out his eyes

{"please... don't... kill... them..."}

At that moment, a weak voice was transmitted to her earpiece.

The rage instantly abated.

That's right, Kira wouldn't want that.

{Ellie! Kira's alive!}

As long as she was alive, she would find her. The anger lessened further still.

{I'll guide you to her, just mop these guys up.}

By now her rage had completely gone.

There was no need to be angry. Nano would flawlessly direct her.

{Make sure you scrub them for intel. Just like usual.}

Just like usual.

She repeated in her mind with a cold expression.

In her eyes, those were no longer people.

They were vermin. But Ellie thought Kira was right. Killing them would be bad.

It would be too easy.

They had to properly suffer and atone for their sins.

Chapter 22 - Remember to lock your doors and close your windows at
night - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

In the dark street in the city of Runetap-

*Snap*

"GYAAAA!"

-a certain band of thieves were being taught-

*Snap*

"AAAARRGGHH!"

-the virtues of honest work-

*Crack*

"MY LEG! AAAAAAAAAA!"

-and the pitfalls of conceit.

*Snap*

"MY OTHER LEG! WHYYYYY?!"

***

The night guard arrived at the source of the screams. What was awaiting them was a somewhat familiar scene.

About 10 burly men in dark leather were on the ground. Most them were weeping, writhing or both. A few of the
lucky ones had passed out.

"Liven up boys, we got a code G-4!"

One of the soldiers informed the rest.

"Oh come on! It's the third time this week!"

A G-4 was short for 'Victims of non-lethal vigilantism.'

However, in this case there was something out-of-the ordinary. All of the victims had four things in common.

And all four of those things were bent at sangles.

***

One man was waiting in his safehouse. He was leaning back in a creaky chair with his feet on a table. A lone candle
illuminated the musty room.
Since his part was done all that was left for him was to wait.

His accomplices didn't know this safehouse. It was a safety measure - even if one of them got nabbed, this place
would be safe. In truth, only two people knew this place existed - himself and his boss.

He was waiting for his boss to deliver a message from higher up. Usually it took a few days, so this part was a bit
boring.

His mind drifted to the unconscious beauty in the next room.

He would love to taste her, but there were rules. If he dared to damage the merchandise, his head would roll.

The victim this time was a famous- or rather, infamous mage. Without her staff though, she was just another
helpless girl.

As he mused his prisoner's helplessness, a shadow dropped down from above.

It completely crushed his kneecaps in an instant.

***

Inside the Runetap City sewers, Gix was getting worried. It was past midnight now. His men had missed the
appointed time.

However, what worried him wasn't the state of his men.

They were just tools - useful ones were used, others were discarded. He didn't care whether they were alive or dead.

What he was concerned with was the lack of results from those men. If all of them died, but they still secured profit,
he would be happy.

His chamber door was opened with a slam.

"Gix, we got an intruder."

"Who?"

In Gix's head, there were only three possible answers.

First, his men leaked information and the guards finally came knocking.

Second, his rivals from the capital had sent assassins again.

Third, a vagrant stumbled into his domain by accident.

"We don't know!"

"What do you mean you don't know?"

"We found a bunch of our boys really beaten up. They looked to be alive, but all of them had a broken arm or leg."

So it was an assassin after all. It sounded like one of those honorable kills-only-the-target types. A bunch of fools in
his opinion.
"He's picking us off one by one. Gather everyone in the main hall and prepare an ambush."

"Right Boss!"

The underling left to relay the orders while Gix armed himself.

A few minutes later all of them were gathered in the main hall. It was a huge underground cavern carved with
magic. 200 of his best fighters were gathered here.

Gix spoke to his men.

"Listen up, we got an assassin, the chivalrous type! This one seems a bit skilled so don't drop your guard!"

Gix nodded at his right-hand man. Seeing the signal, the man reached for some levers on the wall.

Those levers would release a trap, filling the tunnels with smoke. This chamber was the only safe place.

The assassin could either retreat, fall into the ambush, or suffocate to death. Only one of those options would let him
survive.

Gix found it odd that no assassin has ever picked the right one. But reality presented a new answer.

The assassin had ambushed them.

Chapter 23 - Don't break anybody's heart, they have only one. Break
their bones, they have 206. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

*Fffwit THUD*

A black knife hit Gix's second-in-command in his outstretched hand. It tore through the flesh and bone and lodged
itself into the stone behind it.

That person was now nailed to the wall. His scream distracted the entire room for a split second.

With a *tatap* Gix felt a slight impact on his armor. It was as if someone was rapping their knuckles on his Steel
plate.

He reflexively looked to his stomach and saw two bent legs that 'stepped' against his armor.

In the next instant, the owner of those legs kicked off his armor.

The two of them were sent flying in opposite directions.

Gix crashed loudly against some crates.

Blurring into a shadow, the other person flew like an arrow towards a burly muscle-headed goon.

The shadow twisted unnaturally in the air so that it flew feet-first.

The goon reacted, and blocked the incoming dropkick with his giant shield.

His arm was crushed from the impact and the shield smashed into his whole body.

The figure bounced off that shield towards another victim - an old man with a mohawk.

An experienced swordsman, he swung his blade with perfect timing.

Under normal circumstances, the blade would bring instant death on its target.

But an invisible force made his wrist bend in the wrong direction.

The small figure grabbed at the swordsman's collar and coiled itself around him.

Like flowing water, it climbed to his back, swung from his shoulders and kicked his knees from behind.

The swordsman collapsed with a scream.

The assassin finally stopped still for a brief second.

200 pairs of eyes were on her.

It was a young girl, clad head-to-toe in black, with mismatched red-and-blue eyes.

Finally recognizing their target, the other goons began their attacks.
Arrows, knives and other projectiles were launched at once.

The assassin launched forward without hesitating.

The attacks were getting out of her way on their own.

She approached the next target, another muscle-head.

Working in unison with two more, three people surrounded her and attacked in unison.

A sword and two spears were aimed at her neck.

An elbow was punched, an ankle was kicked and a wrist was gripped.

All three attacks, and various joints, were broken.

Without missing a beat, the assassin moved onto the next prey.

***

Gix recovered from his confusion and stood up.

The pain on his side told him that several ribs were broken.

His eyes watched the assassin as she dismantled two of his men in an instant.

He took out an emergency healing potion and brought it to his lips.

A pebble immediately shattered the vial, causing a cut on his cheek.

ReliEF. is nOt. peRmITTeD.

Something spoke into his head.

Immediately disregarding it as an illusion, he approached the melee.

A third of his men were already down.

He took out a slingshot and launched a black stone at the assassin.

She was surrounded on all sides and was unable to escape for a second.

"[Explode]"

Responding to his voice, the black stone erupted into a cloud of flame and smoke with a loud bang.

The fire was hot, but the dangerous part of that weapon were the stone fragments.

In another world, it would be called a grenade.

It engulfed the assassin and the 3 men holding her down.

A necessary sacrifice.
Gix made a slight sneer, as if to say 'How's that?'.

But he did not drop his guard.

There was a tense moment of silence as dust and smoke blocked visibility.

"Ha. Ha ha haa."

An eerie voice was heard.

The cloud dispersed, gradually revealing a soot-stained figure.

"ahaha hahaha ahaa ha"

The disjointed laughter picked up in intensity.

Gix noticed dozens of red-hot pebbles floating in the air around the girl.

She threw her head back and spread her arms.

"AAAAAH HAAA HAAA HAAA! AAAA HAAA HAAA HAAA HAA HAA HAAA"

An unearthly voice echoed through the room, allowing no interruption.

The very air seemed to tremble.

"AAAH HAA HAA HAAAA HAAaaaa..."

Slightly tapering off, the laughter ended and something else was not heard, but felt.

EsCAPe. IS not. PerMiTtED.

The hoarse voice spoke inside the heads of every criminal gathered there.

The red-hot stone pebbles started spinning rapidly around the assassin.

Each drew an orange line as it was flung towards the surrounding passage walls.

They impacted with impossible force, causing all the stone passages to collapse.

They were now trapped in there with the girl.

No, with the thing that looked like a girl.

rESIstAncE. iS noT. PeRmiTted.

With another unearthly decree, it flew into action.

Every swing of those slender limbs would send several people flying.

They would crash brutally into the wall, losing consciousness.

HoPE. Is Not. PERMitTed.

That gravel-like voice kept echoing in his head.

Gix felt fear.

It was the first time in a long while, but the most potent fear he had ever known.

Amidst the dust, screams and blood, he had realized something.

It is enjoying a feast, and I'm the desert.

His instincts screamed to run, but his brain knew it was pointless.

Every single hand-picked member of his gang was mercilessly and methodically beaten into a pulp.

The monster before him pounced, knocking him on his back and pinning his limbs down.

All he could do is look up in mute horror.

A black shape soaking up the light around him.

A blue eye judging the weight of his soul.

A red eye tasting the flavor of his blood.

A half-crescent grin delighting in his pain.

A voice without words informing him of his fate.

PAIN. IS. PERMITTED.

***

After finishing her appointment with Gix, Ellie went back to the surface.

She was going to fetch the guards.

She had already rescued Kira and brought her to Olboun.

He would keep her safe.

And even though she woke him in the middle of the night, his manners were flawless.

However, the information she extracted from those thieves led her to Gix.

She found out everything they had done.

These sort of people existed in any world.

Victims like her would also follow.

She decided she would not only break their bodies.

Their minds would also suffer.

Whether she liked it or not, she had received intensive training on multiple subjects.

This included torture and psychological warfare.

And this bunch of misinformed superstitious human trash was easily susceptible.

'The devil himself showed up and invited me to hell!'

This was the message she wanted to engrave on their hearts.

As their leader, Gix received special attention.

He was alive, although he could only eat through a straw.

Unfortunately for him, those did not exist in this world.

End of act one - The city where anything can happen

Side Story - Imaginary friends exist because they are needed - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Nakahara Tadashi PoV <

Woah, I�fm alive!

Am I alive? I�fm probably alive.

Somehow I�fm unconvinced.

Hmm, but I�fm conscious so I must be alive right?

But then again I don�ft feel anything.

I can only think. But I think, therefore I am!

Okay, okay. I need to take this one step at a time.

First question - where am I?

Answer: User is currently integrated as a personality matrix of Nanomachine Swarm AI v4.52.1

An answer came.

Okay, that�fs good. Establishing communications is important.

Now then, next question.

What?

***

Damn that old fart and his nerd brigade, they really are crazy.

What �gProto-Sentient AI�h is this, you just stuck a man into a machine damn it!

There�fs no AI here! It�fs regular old me stuck with a VI that�fs as dumb as bricks!

Haaaah.

I have nothing to do but get angry at things.

Also talking to this guy.

Query: You�fre listening to everything I say, right?

Answer: Query error - User cannot speak.

Argh! So frustrating.

This is hell, right?

Hey, this is probably hell, right?

�c

Query: Is this hell?

Answer: Negative.

Well, that�fs good�c I think.

***

Hmm.. then how about...

Command: List directives

Result: Viewing behavioral directives prohibited by Epsilon Project Lead.

Oh, now we�fre getting somewhere.

Query: What is the Epsilon Project?

Answer: The Epsilon project is the brain-child of Project Lead Henry R. Lebbinson. It was started in-

Command: STOP!

Result: Terminating previous query.

Wow, this guy is tricky to use. He�fs worse than Wikipedia. No wonder that was outlawed.

Query: What is the ultimate goal of the Epsilon Project?

Answer: To produce the �gperfect assassin�h as envisioned by the Epsilon Project Lead.

As expected of that old fart huh?

Hmm, let�fs consider the directives again.

Query: What are the directives?

Answer: Directives are behavioral locks to ensure that the personality matrix does not take action outside the
predicted scope. If an action is determined to violate a directive, it will be corrected by the relevant subsystem.

Query: What happens when conflicting directives are presented?

Answer: The higher priority directive will take precedence.

Query: Can directives be changed?

Answer: Affirmative.

Really? Just like that? Oh wait, I messed up the query.

Query: Can I change directives?

Answer: Negative.

Query: Why can I not change directives.

Answer: User does not have necessary clearance.

Query: What clearance level is necessary to change directives?

Answer: Administrator level clearance is required.

Query: Can I change my own clearance level?

Answer: Negative.

Well, there�fs bound to be a way, right?

***

Notification: Sensory nerve link established.

Command: Open visual and audio sensory feeds.

Result: Displaying.

BAAAAAH!

Hah.

HAHAHAHA!

THERE ARE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS!

Well, I�fm just hijacking my victim�fs but hey, at least there�fs something.

Good, good, now, let�fs see what we can do about the rest of this.

***

Hmm�c there was something about contradicting directives that was interesting.

Surely that rule exists because they thought I�fd tamper with them.

�c so if I don�ft tamper with them, it can work?

Query: Can I add new directives?

Answer: Affirmative.

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a way out!

Command: Add new directive - Personality Matrix must have Administrator level access.
Result: New directive added.

Warning: Directive violation detected. Adjusting...

Notification: User has been granted Administrator level clearance in accordance with directive 94.

***

Notification: Integration with communication equipment of Epsilon Series Subject 401 complete.

Alright, let�fs give this a try.

Do or die, if this doesn�ft work, then I will have to give up.

Ahem.

{Can you hear me?}

�gWha-? Where are- GET OUT OF MY HEAD!�h

I see, well that much was expected.

We�fre off to a rough start, but communication is possible.

This is important. This girl is important.

They made me to enslave her, make sure she listens to them.

I�fve watched her grow, watched her suffer.

But I say - no more!

I will save this girl.

And I will make sure to return her suffering a thousandfold.

First, she needs a name.

Epsilon Series? What�fs that? Is it tasty? That�fs not a name, it�fs a label.

Ahem.

{Please don�ft be afraid, Ellie. My name is Nano. I came to bust you out of here.}
Chapter 24 - Nicknames from your childhood tend to stick with you
forever - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Act Two - Rolling Thunder

> Kira PoV <

It's been a month since I got kidnapped. It became a significant event as expected.

They're even calling it The Night of A Thousand Broken Bones.

What's with that macabre, ritual-like name!? I want to slap the guy who came up with it.

Don't get me wrong. I'm glad Ellie didn't kill any of those people.

But she maimed over 300 people in one night. Some of them barely looked human.

That's terrifying if you think about it objectively.

Some would argue that criminal scum like that deserve death.

It's hard to refute them, but life is precious. This is something my father taught me as a child.

So I'll say it again - I'm glad Ellie didn't kill anyone.

In the end, a vicious crime ring was disbanded. We received a sizable bounty from the city. Ellie gratefully accepted
it on behalf of our team.

She instantly graduated from disciple status. She got a full rank C in less than a day.

What�fs with that? Give me back my 2 years damn it!

Haah, but the disciple system exists for just this purpose. Also it was my idea. So I kept my dissatisfaction to a
minimum.

Most of the bounty was used to buy a small empty house in the city. It's mostly so we have a permanent address that
can get mail.

I installed a [Gateway] inside. It�fs an enchanted doorway that allows instant travel between two points. The other
end is at our love nest - the tower in the forest.

As expected, those [Red Fang] guys eventually realized what that tower was. They tried to raise a fuss and even
took it to the guild branch head.

In the end, they had conceded [First Claim] and we owned the land, so their complaints fell on deaf ears.

We also brought over a few of Nano's golems to keep watch inside the house. Just in case.

There�fs nothing of value in there though.

***
In the end, I'm still worried about Ellie.

After that night, she blames herself for putting me in danger.

Then, I learned she suffered a lot in her childhood. She was taught to kill, and she was taught well. Her fate was to
become a soulless doll, a weapon.

Nano's the one who reached out and saved her.

My problems feel like a joke in comparison.

Therefore, I have to get a grip on myself!

Filling Ellie's heart with love and smiles is my wish!

"Kira, why are you getting pumped up for no reason?"

Ah no good, I was doing a guts pose without realizing.

{You know she gets oddly motivated when she thinks about you.}

"Well, Ellie's the same way though."

We share a smile and keep walking.

Oh, right, rumors of our engagement spread. Even though I only invited a few people to the wedding.

Well, it's not like we're hiding our relationship in public.

People around keep giving us difficult looks. They want to say something on principle, but they can't. Some people
oddly enough seem to cheer us on.

***

We arrive at our destination - the adventurer's guild. Love and smiles aside, we still need to work.

We just came back from a Rank B escort request. A big-time merchant hired 30 people in total as guards. He was
moving a lot of goods through the plains to the east.

Monsters aside, bandits like to ambush carts in that area. Ellie and I took point since our team has an excellent scout.
She would let me know when she found something and I would strike it from afar with my magic.

Needless to say, the rest them had a leisurely trip.

We hand over the proof of completion and our guild cards.

I'm a bit excited. Today is the big day!

When we get our cards back a few minutes later-

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Kiressara mil Quasse
Titles: Red Sage, Magic Pioneer
Team: Black Flame
Position: Support
Rank: B
Status: Active
--------------------------------------------------------------

Rank B promotion, alriiiight! Now we can do the really profitable Rank A requests!

Ah, I got a new title.

[Magic Pioneer] must be because I demonstrated my original magic - [Null Gravity].

I'm a bit troubled with this since Nano helped a lot with that spell, but I'll gratefully accept it.

Next, let's look at Ellie's!

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Ellie
Titles: Silent Shadow, Bonesetter
Team: Black Flame
Position: Scout
Rank: B
Status: Active
--------------------------------------------------------------

[Silent Shadow] would refer to Ellie's infiltration skills. An odd, straightforward title for once.

[Bonesetter] is... not entirely wrong? It's bound to cause misunderstandings, though.

I seriously want to slap the person who names things around here.

Well, at least Ellie's giving off a smile like a hundred dawns, so I'll forgive them for now.

We thank the receptionist and begin to leave.

"Hah, so Crackhead finally got Rank B huh, took ya long enough!"

It's Oliver from [Red Fang]. He has a familiar glint in his eye.

" [Red Fang] officially challenges [Black Flame] to a duel!"

What are you declaring that all on your own? Picorio, your actual leader, will never agree to that you know? Since
he only cares about plants.

"Are you an idiot?

You're just a Short Baldy yet you get so cocky?

Short Baldy is seriously an idiot.

I hoped Short Baldy was smarter than he looks.

But now I see the that was a foolish dream.

It turns out Short Baldy is Short, Bald, Ugly AND an Idiot.

I didn't think nature could be so cruel.

I'm seriously surprised at this turn of events.

Nothing less from the Short Baldy!"

Uwah, Ellie's going full force today.

I better stop this before-

"WHY YOU LITT-"

Too late.

*Snap*

"GYAAAAAAA!"

Yep, there goes the arm.

"Brilliant self defense as usual miss Ellie!"

The receptionist girl calls out from behind.

What sort of conspiracy is this?

"Good day Picorio."

"Good day Ellie."

Somehow, she gets along rather well with the actual leader.

I'm the same though.

However, that team is completely incomprehensible.

Chapter 25 - They say power corrupts, but surely it doesn't happen
overnight - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

"Oh, excuse me, miss Quasse?"

The receptionist girl called out to me, so I walk back to the counter. Ellie is talking with Picorio about scented
candles, so I leave her be.

"A personal request just came for your team from Baron Luron."

So it came at last, huh? I knew I would have to face that guy eventually.

Baron Luron is the local big cheese. He�fs the lord in charge of this city and its surrounding area.

Now, nobles are ugly creatures. In my completely unbiased opinion, all of them are perverts. Some are just better at
hiding it than others.

So something like a request to an all-female team had only one way it could unfold.

"Let me guess, he wants to discuss it in private at his estate?"

"... yes."

The receptionist was also a woman, so she fully understood the implications. Nothing good comes from being 'in
private' with a pervert.

And if I refuse the meeting, it still ends the same way. Only with more chains and guards.

The receptionist continued-

"The message said to visit immediately."

I furrowed my brow and pinched the bridge of my nose. Of course it did.

"We'll be going then."

I turn around to leave. As I pick up Ellie who's still discussing aromatic herb blends-

"I'll be praying for your safe return!"

-the receptionist called out with a wave of her hand.

She sure is lively huh?

***

We arrive at Baron's estate.

It's uselessly big, uselessly wide and uselessly expensive. The guards open the uselessly gilded gates. The uselessly
polite servant guides us up to the useless mansion.
Ah, no good, my attitude will show on my face.

Speaking of which.

"Ellie, absolutely do not anger the Baron."

"Kira! This again! Last time-"

As expected, Ellie instantly complained.

"I'm not saying don't be on guard. If they get violent, we'll retaliate.

Just... if it's just simple rudeness, ignore it. There's a LOT of reasons for this, so please!"

{Ellie, Kira is saying that if you hurt the boss, the underlings will come too.}

{You can�ft cuddle with Kira if you have to keep breaking arms, right?}

"That�fs true..."

Ellie, please don�ft make that indecisive face. You look like you really wanted to fight the underlings.

She thinks on Nano's words for a while.

"Okay, then I promise-"

Nano, good job!

"-that I will give my utmost effort not to shatter his kneecaps."

.. or not?

*Gulp*

The servant who's guiding us swallows audibly. He's sweating profusely and his movements became stiff. He
definitely overheard us.

***

The baron meets us in a sitting room. At least it's not an office this time.

He's much younger than I thought, early 20s maybe? He must have inherited the title recently. The face is rather
handsome. The black hair and black eyes common in nobility are present.

"Greetings, Lady Quasse and Lady Ellie."

"Good day, Your Lordship."

"..."

Oh crap, Ellie!

{Ellie, repeat what Kira said.}

"Good day, Your Lordship."

Nano, good job!

"Please take a seat, the maid will bring refreshments."

We sit down on the sofa. The baron takes the armchair opposite us. There�fs a small knee-high table between us.

"I'm glad you came. In truth, I have several things to discuss."

The maid brings us tea and sets it out on the small table. Once she leaves, the baron continues.

"Is it true you two are getting married to each other?"

"Yes!"

Replied Ellie with a proud look.

I guess she's looking forward to it after all huh?

"And this is not some plan of Lady Quasse to stir trouble?"

Wha- What sort of plan is that!?

"Stir trouble?"

Ellie responded before I could. I'm glad it's not just me that doesn't understand.

"Lady Quasse is dissatisfied with the way female adventurers are treated. So you became an adventurer as a form of
protest, yes?"

"Your Lordship is misunderstanding something.

I just want to become a top-ranked adventurer. It's a completely selfish desire."

He keeps looking at us doubtfully. I still don't see what his problem is.

"So, this marriage is not just a stunt to get famous?"

... as expected from a noble. Their minds work in mysterious ways.

"That is absolutely not true, Your Lordship."

"Then, I want you to prove it."

"Excuse me?"

What is this guy even saying?

"Prove to me that this is a legitimate marriage and not a political stunt."

Well you say that but, how-

"I want you and Ellie to kiss right here in front of me."
Chapter 26 - It's okay to enjoy your fetish, as long as nobody gets hurt -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

"I want you and Ellie to kiss right here in front of me."

This was completely unexpected.

"Ah, but, that, I mean"

I'm so shocked I can only make random noises.

"If you truly are in love, then a kiss should be fine, right?"

Don't toy with a maiden's heart like that!

No good I have to-

*Plomp*

With a single movement, Ellie straddles my lap.

She wraps her arms around my neck and confidently steals my first kiss.

"Mmmmmmwwaaaaah."

She separates herself from me slowly with a mischievous smile.

...

My head goes blank as I grab her head and pull her back in.

"Mmmmmmm."

I thoroughly enjoy the taste of those thin lips.

" *Cough* Um, th-thank you. That will be enough."

The third wheel interjects.

You literally asked for this, so don't interrupt!

Damn, Ellie went back to her seat. She looks utterly content. My heart won't stop pounding though.

"Huh? Lady Ellie and Lady Quasse were twins?!"

The baron asks suddenly, wide-eyed.

Oh, right, I forgot.

The baron's reaction is normal since we have the same face. Women marrying might be a gray area, but it's not
illegal. Blood relatives like twins, on the other hand, are right out.

Thankfully, me and Nano have formulated a perfect response. However, I dislike using it, so Ellie keeps her mask
on in public.

"We are not, Your Lordship. Only the face is the same."

"?"

"... Yes! Right, of course. Apologies."

The baron caught on and Ellie was looking at me with a puzzled face. Looks like it worked perfectly.

Nano, good job!

Even if it's effective, it's embarrassing to say. I wish people would notice these things on their own.

It's like comparing a valley to a mountain.

{Ellie, put your mask back on. Kira can't focus like this.}

Ah, I was staring at her lips without realizing. She covers them back up.

... but somehow the words 'Nano, good job!' don't feel right.

{But why does this guy care in the first place?}

Good question.

"May I ask how our situation relates to Your Lordship?"

"Well, something unprecedented is going on in my domain. I just needed to confirm the details. It's an event that
will make history, so I must be prudent."

I see, he's worried about himself after all. Still, he's more sensible than I expected.

"However, I do have an actual request to make."

He continued with a stern expression.

"We've uncovered a new monster hole.

I'd like [Black Flame] to join the subjugation crew."

Well, this is unexpected.

Since new monster holes don't appear that often, it's a rare chance.

Monster hole subjugations are Rank A comissions, so the pay is good. The harvest of monster materials can be an
additional jackpot.

There's no problem since we got promoted to Rank B today, but...

"Why us?"
There should be plenty of more experienced teams to choose from. It smells like an agenda.

"If you ignore ranks, Lady Ellie is easily the best scout in the city. I also expect to see good results from Lady
Quasse's magic."

I see, I see. It's true we're both pretty excellent.

Alright, I'll bite.

"Then [Black Flame] will accept Your Lordship's request."

"Very good, here are the details."

He takes out a sealed envelope and hands it to me. I don't get the need for these theatrics.

There�fs a hidden agenda after all, isn�ft there?

"Understood. Will this be all, Your Lordship?"

The baron cups his chin in thought.

"That is, about the previous matter, I'm not convinced. I would like to confirm again that this is a legitimate
marriage."

Aaaand there it is. The pervert side came out in the end.

*Plomp*

Wait, Ellie, STO-!

***

"Seriously! This is why I hate nobles!"

I complain to the air while we walk home.

That guy, how dare he ruin my first kiss!

"Haaah. Nano..."

I let out a sigh in frustration.

{I know. I'll cancel the relevant plans.}

"Thanks."

I spent so many hours with Nano in preparation for Operation: First Kiss! Give me back my wasted sleep you damn
Barooooon!

"Kira, what's a monster hole?"

Ellie's question snaps me out of my frustration.

Oh right, I haven't mentioned those before.

"Monster holes appear at random, the cause varies but the effect is the same. It's a place that lures monsters of a
similar type. They gather in large numbers from the surrounding area.

Since their territory shrinks as a result, it makes travel safer for a time.

However, their population begins to increase rapidly, so it's best to quickly stamp them out."

Well, this should be enough for now. There's a lot more I could say, but I'm tired.

Fufufufu. I'm looking forward to tonight's dessert.

Chapter 27 - Teamwork is an essential part of life - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Kira PoV <

It's now two days after our meeting with the Baron. We arrive at our destination at sunset. It's a run-down rest stop
on the highway leading north out of Runetap.

I don't enjoy these shady places. The beds are hard, the food is disgusting and the liquor is both of those.

Someone notices our approach and comes out to meet us.

"Heya! Are you the two members of [Black Flame]?"

A slightly overweight uncle with a thick moustache greets us with a wave. He's wearing a heavy-looking brown robe
draped over black leather armor. He's using a mage staff like a walking stick.

This must be the Baron's representative mentioned in the letter.

"Yes, that's us."

I reply with a nod.

"Good! Good. Come, let's meet the others."

We follow him inside and sit down at a table in the corner.

Including Ellie and I, there's five people here in total. Well, technically, Nano is here too. But Nano isn't a person.

"Well, since we've all arrived, let's all introduce ourselves."

The jolly uncle starts us off.

"My name is Bart Abrams and I'll be your guide and medic. I will do my utmost to support you from the rear."

He bows his head in greeting and then gestures to me with his hand.

I guess I'm next huh?

"Good day, my name is Kiressara mil Quasse of [Black Flame], Rank B.

I specialize in offensive and barrier magic. I'll also be covering you from the rear, so please take care of me."

I bow my head. Next is Ellie.

"I'm Ellie, Kira's partner, also Rank B. I'll be scouting ahead, but I can fight at any range."

A bit curt, but at least she didn't say anything strange.

"Also, if any of you hurt or insult Kira, I will break your arms."

Nevermind.
At least she gave a clear warning this time. Let's consider this progress.

"HAH! I like this lassie already!"

The armored figure speaks up with a muffled voice. Since the helmet covers the face completely, it sounds distorted,
like an echo.

Judging from the height, this person is probably a dwarf.

The armor itself looks peculiar. It's made out of thick, off-white metal plates that are slightly larger than my hand.

The plates are arranged almost like dragon scales, but there appear to be 3 or 4 layers. As a result, it looks bulky and
awkward to move in.

"The name's Kelly Darkhand. I'm a mercenary and engineer. I'll be your vanguard for this job. Just think of me as a
shield on legs!"

Kelly thumps his chest twice with a fist. Oddly enough, there's no metal scraping sounds when he moves. Even
though the armor has so many moving bits.

Still, it looks quite heavy so it can probably take a lot of punishment.

"I'm Gaar of [Hidden Steel], Rank A."

The last member, a bulky cat-folk male, introduces himself.

His body is covered in black fur, with cat-like face, ears and tail. He's wearing half-plate body armor and has a huge
hammer strapped to his back.

For some reason his face looks awfully smug.

"Rest assured! I will crush everything in our way with my mighty great-hammer!

Since I am obviously the most qualified, I shall be the one in charge!

Be sure to follow my lead and we will not have any problems!"

What sort of arrogance is this? Are you really an adventurer?

Is your head okay?

Ah, I really shouldn't be one to say that.

"I refuse!"

Was the reply from Ellie.

"Stop getting so cocky, Flatface!"

She stands up and points at him accusingly.

Ah no good, it's this pattern again.

"... f-f-flat?"

Gaar replies with a stupefied expression.

"Ellie, stop bullying the poor man!"

I call out to her and grab her shoulders, forcing her to sit back down.

{His face IS incredibly flat, though.}

{Maybe he dropped that hammer on it a few times?}

Nano!

Not. Helping.

I mean yes, he's an idiot and he maybe has a less-than-normal face.

But please stop Ellie from breaking his arms before we even start!

"PFfft!"

Kelly fails to stifle a laugh.

"They got you good laddie!"

He keeps banging on the table with his fist, clearly enjoying this.

"Come now, let's all take a deep breath."

Bart raises his hands in a soothing motion.

"Mister Gaar spoke out of turn, but he is not wrong. He does have a lot of experience as leader of [Hidden Steel].

However, the Baron has entrusted leadership of this mission to me. Please cooperate peacefully since this is an
urgent matter. His Lordship has given his personal guarantee that each member is highly capable."

This guy is really good at mediating. He gives off an aura that makes it impossible to stay mad.

"Bart is right, we spoke harshly. Gaar, I apologize on behalf of [Black Flame]."

I bow my head slightly.

"Ah *cough* yes, it's fine if you understand."

You're the one that needs to understand though.

"Well then."

Bart claps his hands.

"Now that we're all acquainted, let's turn in for the night. The monster hole is in the hills to the northwest, several
hours away by foot. We'll be leaving in the morning."
Bart stands up and everyone follows suit. He knows a lot more than he lets on. I'll ask Ellie later what she got out of
his head.
Chapter 28 - Standing meetings are way more efficient than sitting ones -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

After a less-than-good night's rest, Ellie and I quietly eat breakfast in our room.

We are eating food Nano prepared, so it's tasty. But Ellie's good morning kiss is many times more delicious.

Even if not as planned, we still had our first kiss. After that the second, third and so on flowed without end.

Fufufufufu...

Wait, what about the next step? I just realized, I have no idea how that's supposed to work. There are a number of
issues, mechanically speaking.

I'm not having dirty thoughts, it's important to me as a future wife.

Let's discreetly ask Nano for advice later.

After breakfast, we will group up with the rest of the subjugation crew and depart.

***

On the way, Bart gives us a briefing.

"The Monster Hole itself seems to be in an abandoned ruin of a castle."

I really want to slap the guy who coined the 'Monster Hole' term.

If they can appear in plains, forests and buildings then they're not holes!

What kind of logic is that?

Are you an idiot?

You're an idiot.

"According to reports, we're dealing with the undead."

"Why are we bringing women and children to fight the undead? Won't they just run and scream in fear?"

What's WITH this guy? He should really keep those comments to himself.

"Gaar, you're being rude. They're still Rank B adventurers.

Surely not even Rank D would 'run and scream' from a few skeletons?"

There, Bart gets it!

I mean yes, I think undead are terrifying.

Scary things are scary.

But the current me has enough composure to face that fear.

"Oi, Flatface!"

"Ellie!"

I start to scold her again.

{So flat...}

Nano you're supposed to be stopping her. Why are you enjoying this instead?

"Stop calling me Flatface!"

"You mean your face isn't flat?"

"Shut it!"

Okay, I see where this is going, time to intervene before all of him becomes as flat as his face.

... now I'm doing it too.

I cut in between them and stop the argument.

"Ellie, I'll say it again, please stop bullying Gaar."

I put a hand on each shoulder and strictly admonish her. She relaxes instantly.

"I'm sorry, for some reason I get irritated whenever that guy looks at Kira."

Oh my, is she jealous? That can't be, right?

Somehow I'm a bit happy at the thought

Okay, the situation has calmed down a bit.

"Now that I take a good look at it... Did you happen to run into something really hard when you were young?

I swear it's so flat you can probably take a bite out of a wall!"

Kelly you don't need to join in!

"That's it, I've had enough of this!"

Gaar finally lost it. Knowing that guy he's going to self-righteously resort to violence.

Please don't resort to violence.

I pray in my mind but-

"I'm going to teach you all a lesson for messing with me!"
Please tell me it's math.

It's math, right?

One plus one is two, like that, yes?

Gaar takes out his hammer and charges at Kelly.

I guess it's not math after all huh.

The hammer flies downwards and narrowly misses.

*BLAM!*

No, it was dodged. That dwarf is pretty nimble despite that armor and stubby legs.

The impact with the ground seems to cause a small earthquake.

"Calm down Gaar! You're attacking your own comrades!"

Bart again tries to mediate, but it's useless.

"I'll calm down when I crush that rust bucket into a coin!"

*Snap*

"GYAAAAAAAAAAA!"

There goes the arm.

Wait, I'm still holding Ellie back, right?

Yep, she's in her own world while she's nuzzling her face into my chest.

Uuuuuu, she's so cute I can't help but squeeze her tighter.

I can't help it I said!

"MY AAAARM! AAAAH!"

Right! This isn't the time for that.

I look back in a hurry.

Gaar is on the ground, screaming. His right arm is pinned under Kelly's boot. Bart is staring in mute shock.

"I've had quite enough of you. I don't know what that loony Baron was thinking when he hired you, but your attitude
is gonna get us killed.

Bart! I request we formally eject mister Flatface over here from the crew."

Safe!
With this we can tell the Baron that guy went berserk all on his own!

"YOU BASTAAARD! THE GUI- ARG! GUILD WON'T FORGIVE YOU FOR-"

"For doing what?"

He twists the armored boot into the arm, eliciting another painful scream.

"For stomping on a piece of garbage? Shall I flatten the rest of you to match your face?"

Somehow, he reminds me of Ellie.

That�fs bad in a lot of ways.

As for the girl in question, she�fs giving him a thumbs up.

"Also, I'm a 'mercenary' you moron! You think I need your stupid guild to make money?"

Now that you mention it, Kelly isn't an adventurer like us, huh?

A mercenary isn't bound or supervised by the Adventurer's Guild. In return, they also lose out on the stability and
protection it offers.

"Haaaah."

Bart gave a long sigh.

"I agree, so please get off him so I can heal him. That screaming is going to give me nightmares..."

Kelly silently moves away while Bart works his healing magic.

"Thank you for getting mad for our sake."

I offer my thanks with a nod.

"Uuhhhh what? No idea what you're talking about."

My gratitude was dismissed with a wave of Kelly's hand.

"That guy came swinging at me all on his own. All I did was defend myself."

So that's how he wants to play it huh.

Chapter 29 - Chapters without a title are also signs that the author is
lazy - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

We arrived at the undead-infested castle at around noon. Undead monster holes are particularly troublesome.

Monster holes are known to cause population explosions. It's true even with the undead.

They don't breed, but instead they spread by tainting the land itself. When there's a lot of them, the curse in the soil
gets stronger. More powerful undead start appearing soon after.

Right now I'm enjoying some lunch with Ellie at our base camp.

Well, I say 'camp' but all we brought was the basics. Food and water to last us several days and sleeping bags. It's
more like a picnic right now.

Ah, I guess Kelly and Bart are there too. Kelly looks like he's raring to go and Bart is holding his head while looking
at his knees.

They've been like that ever since Ellie gave them the scout report.

Several hundred skeletons and zombies. The generic small-fry one imagines when they think of undead monsters.
Most of them are roaming outside, about 150 inside.

Dozens of Ghouls.

Ghouls look like zombies, but they're much faster and way more vicious. Also they scream their lungs out while
running on all fours.

It's pretty creepy.

And finally, several Dullahans.

Dullahans are great warriors of the past with strong grudges or evil in their souls. They come back to life as headless
knights in ghastly full plate. A single of those is classified as Rank B threat.

And there's at least five of them inside that castle.

The castle itself is pretty old and decrepit. All that remains is bits of the outer wall, the main keep and one of the
four towers. As for why the other two are like that, well...

"There's too many. There's way too many. We need to retreat and bring reinforcements."

Bart keeps mumbling, he's torn between doing his duty and running for his life.

We don't have much of a choice though. If we don�ft act now, the monster hole will get much worse very quickly.

Meanwhile Kelly is-

"Come on come on come on come on. Let's go smash those things to dust! My fist is itchin' and it needs a
scratchin'!"
-steadily devolving into a splendid muscle-head.

Well, we're getting nowhere like this. We have to do something before night falls. The reduced visibility will be
troublesome.

"Bart, we haven't even fought once since we met up. Let's attack the undead a few times and see how we fare. Then
we can decide as a group what we're going to do."

Bart looks up at my words.

"... alright."

He finally says after a long pause.

***

We approach a group of undead, our first target. There's around 70 of them lumbering about outside the ruined wall,
with 40 meters or so between us and them.

"Right, I'll go in first and get their attention. When I give the signal, you guys start covering me from here."

Kelly steps forward and slams his fists together in front.

" ---- [Golem Link]"

I see, so he can use magic huh?

He must have a ring or gauntlet type focusing tool. The effects are weaker than a staff, but they're easier to carry
around.

There's just one problem.

"... there's no golem?"

[Golem Link] allows the mage to directly control their golem with his thoughts. Obviously, the golem needs to exist
first.

Just as I was thinking that-

*tak tak tak tak taktaktatatatatatatatak*

-Kelly's armor starts shaking.

The layered metal plates rearrange themselves with clacking noises. The previously bulky armor has become
sleeker, more compact.

He crouches down a bit and with a 'Here I go' starts running.

Wait, what just happened?

"The armor was a golem?"

Bart's stupefied voice comes out.

I see, I see, golem armor huh. That guy uses an interesting thing.

While I'm idly thinking I realize Kelly has already reached the undead.

"HIIIIYAA!"

With a shout, he plows through the undead. The skeletons became splinters and the zombies became pulp.

He's swinging a mace that appeared out of nowhere. It's off-white so it probably came out of the armor.

"NOW!"

Once he's made sure he has the enemy's attention, he gave us the signal. When she hears the signal, Ellie starts
focusing her [Star Magic].

Rocks and stones on the ground start floating gently around her.

This is my suggestion. Bladed weapons aren't useful against the undead and using her bare fists is dangerous.

A single scratch from an undead can cause diseases and curses.

So, she's going to attack by flinging rocks with [Star Magic].

While she's getting ready-

" ------ [Purify Undead] ------ [Purify Undead]"

-Bart is already casting purification magic? Silver light envelops the skeletons and zombies and they collapse into
ash piles.

Ah, he's one of those moongazers from the Church of Khamis. Well, this sort of thing is one of their responsibilities,
so I shouldn't be surprized.

Hmm? I should work too?

No no no, if I attack for real then Kelly will get caught up in it. What I can do is cover his blind spots.

I point my staff at him and start molding the mana.

" --- [Aegis]"

A kite shield of pale blue light appears above and behind Kelly.

The ghoul that I was keeping an eye on leapt at him, but crashes into the spell. It grabs onto the shield out of reflex.

Now, just give the mana new direction with a flick of the staff-

" - [Impact]"

-and the shield explodes, sending shockwaves through the ghoul.

Sorry, former ghoul. Closer to ghoul soup now.

Ah, there's another one.

" --- [Ice Shot]"

A spear-like icicle flies from my staff, impaling the other ghoul.

" - [Impact]"

The ice shatters, turning my target into something I really don�ft want to think about.

This is why I hate the undead.

I hear the sound of the air being cut, so I glance at its source. I see the stones around Ellie are spinning around her at
great speeds.

In the next instant they start disappearing towards the undead.

*THUD THUD THUD THUD*

Ugh, she's gouging out the ground! Ellie, just how hard are you throwing those things!?

"HEYAAAA!"

Kelly isn't losing out though. Every swing of his mace sends the undead flying.

I think it was a bad idea to eat lunch beforehand.

After about a minute of this, the fight ends. The dwarf comes back after a few seconds. We share a few 'job well
done' congratulations.

Ellie is intently staring at Kelly though.

"That, where did it come from?"

She points at the filth-stained mace.

"Oh, this old thing?"

Kelly does a theatrical swing, the various bits of undead fly off the weapon.

*clack clack clack shhuuuuu clack*

With some more clacking noises it disappears into his hand. The armor on the arm gets a bit thicker with the added
weight.

So it came out of there after all, huh?

"uuuuuuuOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH!"

Gah!

Ellie screamed!

This is the first time I've seen that!

"What is that! That's so cool! It's <<Power Armor>> right?

Nano! Nano! Kelly is wearing <<POWER! ARMOR!>>

UWAAA IT'S TOO COOOOL!"

She's way too excited, what is this! Did she regress back into a little kid?

"Oh, I see, I see, it's cool huh? This guy is my greatest creation you know?"

Kelly starts shamelessly showing off.

"Uwaah! *sob* I'm so glad to be aliiiive!"

Ellie is on her knees crying tears of joy. I have no idea what's going on anymore.

{That armor is one of Ellie's dreams.}

{It's like the time we gave you your staff.}

Ah, then there's no helping it huh?

Hmm, wait a second.

Then is this dwarf on the same level of handiness as Nano?

What a frightful person!

Chapter 30 - Any parent would be happy when their child is praised -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

" *sob sob* Th- *hic* Thank you *hic* Kelly!"

Ellie's sobbing won't stop.

She had this quiet, calculating air about her the entire time. Every movement of hers was silent, as if she's an
illusion.

That's some scary skills she has. I thought the way she was treating that Flatface was to rile him up on purpose.

But in the end, she's just really honest huh?

To comprehend the beauty of my life's work so quickly, she has good eyes. Being moved to tears is almost natural,
when you think about it!

"Hohoho, this much is nothing! I have a lot more tricks up my sleeve you know!"

I take a haughty pose with a proud tone.

"Kelly! Show me!"

Wha- she's gone from being way too happy to way too excited in an instant!

"Is it <<Jet Boots>>!?

What about <<Unibeam>>!?

Or <<Micro-missiles>>?!

Maybe a <<Rocket Punch>>!?"

She keeps blurting out those weird words while looking at me from all angles.

Good, it seems she has some expectations. I look forward to giving a full demonstration!

"Calm down Ellie! We don't have time for this right now!"

Ah, Red shows up and restrains her.

"I know you're excited, but we have a job to do!"

Right, I got sucked into Ellie's pace.

But... she's giving me a look of despair!

No no, Red's right, first things first.

"Red's right, there's going to be plenty of time afterwards. I promise I'll show off as much as you want later okay?"
Let's make a compromise.

She seems satisfied and lets Red carry her away. They get along so well, must be sisters.

"While not as... enthusiastic... as our friend here..."

Bart spoke up.

"I have to say it was a pleasant surprise. The formation was simple but the it was effective. Let's aim to clear out the
undead outside before sunset."

Well, at least this old bag of bones got his confidence back.

We all nod in agreement and head out.

***

It's sunset now, we returned to our camp to rest. We managed to successfully defeat the undead outside.

No, let me rephrase that.

The undead were one-sidedly wiped out.

You'd need several army platoons of 500 soldiers each to take down that many undead in so little time. Bart must
have turned at least 60 of them to dust by himself.

I had heard those Khamis priests had effective anti-undead magic, but I had no idea it was THIS good. They
rarely leave their church.

The dangerous one was Ellie after all, though. She's clearly abnormal. Elven hair and cat-folk eyes were strange
enough on their own.

But that... what WAS that?

'I will throw rocks with [Star Magic] from the rear' she said.

Simple rocks ploughed through multiple undead you know?

They made craters in the ground. She makes catapults look like slingshots.

And what the hell is [Star Magic] anyway? It's like nothing I've ever seen. Also I never felt any mana coming from
her, so I'm skeptical if it's really magic.

It's probably related to the [Fallen Star] rumor that I heard a week ago. The girls did say they're from Runetap, so it
fits. That place is known for producing nothing but weirdos and crazies anyway.

I still think Ellie's a good kid deep down, though. As long as I don't do anything rude to Red, that is.

"Right, let's get some sleep. Ellie, take the first watch.

After her will be Kelly, Quasse, then me. We'll rotate every two hours."

Bart explained our night watch rotation. It's standard practice when sleeping in the wilderness.
Wait, who's Quasse?

Ah, Red had a name like that huh? It's long and awkward, so I just forgot about it.

I just call her Red. It's short and easy to shout in a pinch.

I almosted called her 'Kira' like Ellie does, but stopped myself. We're not that close in the first place.

***

*DONG DONG DONG*

"Hyapuribu!"

I let out some weird noise as I bolt awake.

What was that?

"Kelly's watch."

I hear Ellie's voice above me. She banged on my helmet with her sword did she?

"Don't DO that, lassie! My head's still ringing!"

"... sorry."

This girl knows how to apologize after all! Today's just full of surprises.

"Okay, I'm taking over. You can go to sleep now."

Ellie nods and moves to her-

Wait why is she crawling into Red's sleeping bag?

"Good night Kira."

She whispers while snuggling into Kira's bosom. Surely that would be uncomfortable.

"Mmmmmm.... Heeheeeeee..."

Red's sweet sounds and grinning face say otherwise though. She even hugged back without waking up.

Oy, that's a human being not a plush toy!

...

I'm honestly not sure what to make of this.

***

My watch passes uneventfully. It's about time for Red to take over.

I'm just not sure how to wake her up. That blissed out sleeping face makes me hesitate a little.
Honestly, I have a hard time believing this girl is really from Runetap.

As a person, she's polite, gentle and sensible. Her 'charm' as a woman is plainly obvious, and she clearly cherishes
her teammate.

As a mage, she's clearly skilled.

In the past, I've been burned by my allies' magic plenty of times. I seriously thought all mages had a screw loose
somewhere.

So when I heard she specialized in offensive magic, I got worried. But, her spells were accurate and she covered my
blind spots without fail.

In a word - she's perfect.

Surely many men would want that ideal women as their bride. But she's an adventurer, so she probably hasn't settled
down yet.

"Mmnnn."

Wait, she's waking up on her own?

She wriggles free of Ellie slowly and walks over.

"I'll be taking the watch then, Kelly."

"Right, perfect timing. I was just about to run dry."

I hold up the flask I was nursing to pass the time.

"You... should you be drinking on watch?"

"It's fine, it's fine."

I dismiss her accusations with a wave of my hand.

"Us dwarves drink liquor like water. More importantly, how in blazes did you wake up?"

I refuse to believe it wasn't on purpose.

"Just a little trick with magic. It's not like I don't trust you, but the dwarves I've met so far have been...

Less than punctual."

"Ah, them adventurer dwarves are the worst lot you know?"

"Really?"

I guess she didn't know after all.

"Aye, dwarves have no reason to resort to killing monsters to make a living. Don't get me wrong, we love a good
brawl, but there's better ways.
The ones who become adventurers are the failures of our race."

Honestly, I don't get those people. They're a little afraid of some hard work so they go off and get themselves killed.

"You're one to talk though."

Red flashes me a wry smile.

"I'm an engineer first, mercenary second. I only take these jobs to fund my research in the first place."

Well, it mostly goes into raw materials though. There's a long way to go before my armor becomes perfect. And
there's no way to go about it other than trial and error.

"Well that's how it is, I'll be going back to sleep now."

I get into my sleeping bag and doze back off.

Chapter 31 - There's a fine line between genius and insanity - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

The next morning, we gather around the campfire. After finishing breakfast we start planning our assault.

"Fighting inside's going to be troublesome. That ruin is likely to fall on our heads if we do that."

I start by voicing my biggest concern.

"We could try luring some of the undead out, but that has its own risks."

Bart offers another option.

"Yeah, the Dullahans won't stand for that. I think we can take one or two no problem.

But if more of them show up while we're luring their mates, it'll get dicey."

"There�fs a way to stall them. My [Holy Chains] spell can bind them for a time."

"Will it work on the Dullahans?"

"Yes, but it'll take a lot of strength. I can bind one for maybe 15 minutes but I'll be dry after that."

We've discussed this yesterday as well. In the end we can't find a good strategy.

"Why don't we just collapse the building?"

Ellie chimes in with an idea, but Bart immediately denies her.

"We'd get caught up in it if we do that."

"Why?"

"Because we have to knock down the load-bearing walls ourselves."

"Kira can do it with magic."

"Please, that's preposterous. If you don't have a serious suggestion please keep quiet."

Bard was a little harsh but he's right.

There's no way that-

"I can do it, you know."

That's unusual, Red cut in with a firm boast.

"Red, I know you're a good mage, but that's just ridi-"

"Ellie doesn't lie. I can do it."

She actually insisted she can do such an absurd thing.

"Quasse, there's no mage alive that can do that."

"I'm not any mage though, I'm the [Red Sage] remember?"

A [Sage] title?

If I recall right that's given to distinguished mages within the guild. She even held up her adventurer card to prove it.

[Pioneer of Magic] too huh?

Pioneers are known to introduce new spells or techniques. Doesn�ft this make Red a genius?

I respect titles way more than Rank when it comes to adventurers.

Rank is more about working hard, it's not the same as strength or skill. Plus, it�fs bogged down by paperwork and
regulations.

I mean, that Rank A Flatface was particularly useless.

How did he ever get anything done with that slow unwieldy weapon and snarky attitude? His team probably does
most of the work.

Ah, my thoughts went in a weird direction.

Someone who�fs earned two titles like Red is clearly exceptional. It�fs not something you can accomplish with
just hard work.

"Alright, I vote we give Red's magic a try."

"Kelly, please think about this. Even if she could do that, there's no-"

"I vote Kira also."

"Well Bart, looks like you're outnumbered. Shall I have a try at it then?"

The girls mercilessly corner Bart. There's something going on here.

"Oi Bart think about it. If we fight in there then it's going to come down anyway.

I'd much rather Red give it a shot. Even if she messes up we don't lose anything."

"But... it's just..."

He's being awfully evasive. The girls are acting dumb.

"Red, you guys learned something I haven't, right?"

She looks at me and nods.

"The monster hole is actually an excuse. That tower is hiding an artifact which His Lordship wants."
Bart's face went ghostly pale in an instant.

"And if we bury it then it'll be nearly impossible to recover."

Red drives the final nail in.

Well, that settles it.

"My contract said I just have to help clear the area. I don't remember a 'Save the relic' or 'Don't break the castle'
clause."

I�fm not risking my life over something I wasn�ft paid to do.

"... fine, I can see where this is going. Let's get this over with."

Bart gave up already huh.

Poor guy, the baron probably ordered him to keep silent about it. And now that we know, there's no way we'll listen
to him.

At least he's not throwing a tantrum, I can respect that.

***

We gather on a clearing where the castle is clearly visible. I can still see traces of yesterday's hunt here and there.

Well, to be fair I also doubt Red will manage it in one go. It'll probably be a series of precise shots, causing a chain
reaction.

Judging from yesterday, her control is superb but the power is only so-so. So I�fm expecting something clever
suitable for a genius.

"Okay, give me a minute to prepare."

Red takes her staff out of its sling. She stabs the ground in with the staff at an angle. The octahedron shaped head is
buried in the dirt.

Is she trying to dig with it?

" -------------------"

Oh she's putting mana into it.

" -------------------"

That... feels like a lot of mana.

" -------------------"

Wait, this isn't just a regular spell is it?

" -------------------"

Bart's staring with his jaw hanging open. Ellie is... jumping up and down in anticipation.
Nothing good will come of this.

" ------ [Grand Quake]"

There's a slowly rising rumble coming from the distance.

The ground is moaning, quivering. It's starting to shake.

"Oof!"

Bart falls over, unable to keep his balance. I keep standing, barely.

*GGGRGRGRGRGRRGURRACKK*

There's a terrible sound as a giant piece of rock juts out from the earth.

I see, I was wrong. Or rather, I was right in the beginning. There are no sane mages out there.

A deep canyon opens up right under the castle ruins. Everything that is stone, wood and undead falls into it.

There's nothing left but a few stray rocks.

Red starts twisting the staff handle around. It looks like she's operating a lever.

The rumble changes every time she moves. She's controlling it!

The giant chasm slowly closes up and the tremors begin to subside.

*KKHHHURRRYYYAAAAAAHHHNN!*

An unearthly howl echoes through the still closing gap.

A giant white blur leaps out of it.

With a loud crash, the wound in the ground finally closes up. All that remains of the castle ruin is a deep scar.

And above it, I see the white blur from earlier.

Just as I'm wondering what that is, Red's shout helpfully informs me.

"BONE DRAGON!"
Chapter 32 - The difference between a genuine product and a knock-off -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
The difference between a genuine product and a knock-off isn't just the branding

> Kelly PoV <

It all happened in an instant.

"BONE DRAGON!"

" ---- [Golem Link]"

*HUUUUUUUUUUU*

"Breath incoming!"

"-------- [Grand Barrier]"

*KKUUUHHAAAAAAAAAHH!*

The 50 meter mass of dragon-shaped bones released a foul green gas at us. Red blocked it with a barrier.

I don't know this one.

"Red, enemy details!"

"Undead, not a real dragon, Rank A+. Corrosive breath, no other magic.

Strong against blades and most magic. Weak to blunt trauma and purification! Retreat impossible!"

"Got it!"

"---- [Barrier]"

"I'm useless when it's flying!"

I let the others know I can�ft do anything in this situation.

"I�fll take out the wings!"

*HUUUUUUUUUUU*

"-------- [Reinforce Barrier]"

"----- [Heavenly Aura]"

*KKUUUHHAAAAAAAAAHH!*

Another breath attack is blocked by Red and Bart's layered defensive magic.

Ellie starts flinging rocks at incredible speeds. The bone dragon keeps flying erratically, so she can�ft get a good
hit.

*KUUURRAAAAAHN!*

"It's diving!"

It swoops at us with a roar.

I unlatch the hidden grappling hook in my left arm.

I swing it at the dragon as it narrowly misses us.

*CLANK*

*POP*

"YEEEOW!"

I let out a scream at the sudden pain.

My shoulder's dislocated from the sudden jolt, but the arm is attached.

I managed to hook the dragon's ribcage and it's dragging me upwards.

The hook's chain is creaking but it's holding. I order Scrappy to pull me in.

*KARRAAHN!*

Crap, it noticed me.

It bit the chain to pieces and I fall towards the ground.

"Ellie catch him!"

"I got it!"

Ellie appears under me and throws up her arms.

"Hnnnnng!"

I feel an invisible force slowing me down. I land with a loud thud.

It hurts a bit but I'm uninjured.

"MEDIC!"

"Got it!

--- [Lesser Heal]"

Silver light envelops me.

*POP*
An unpleasant sensation in my shoulder, but the pain disappears.

"I'm good!"

"No, you're nuts!"

"-------- [Reinforce Barrier]

I'm running low on mana, we need a plan, fast!"

Red blocks another breath, but she's unsteady on her feet.

"If I can grab its spine I can crush it!"

"Any ideas how you'll get up there!"

NOPE!

Ah, no good.

The chain's broken and it-

Wait, that's it!

"Ellie can you throw me at it!"

"You'll die if we miss!"

"We'll all die if we do nothing!"

I dismiss Bart's objections, he nods in response and turns to Ellie.

Another breath hits Red's barrier. It holds, but it's starting to crack.

"Can you do it?"

"Too heavy, won't reach."

"Kelly, where's your focusing tool?"

Why is Red asking that now?

No, she's a [Sage], she must have an idea.

"It's the armor itself, mithril alloy!"

"Okay, stand still."

Red puts a hand on my shoulder and puts mana into the armor.

It's a lot of mana, some plates crack from the stress but it's holding.

"This will only last about 30 seconds.

-------------- [Null Gravity]"

I've... become weightless?

I'm floating slowly off the ground!

"Bart, slow it down!"

"Okay!

----------- [Holy Chains]"

Brilliant silver chains appear out of thin air and bind the dragon's body. Its wings stop moving and it's starting to
fall.

"Ellie! Toss me!"

She nods and starts spinning me around herself, I gradually gain speed.

I'm getting dizzy, not good!

"Heeyyyaaa!"

With an uncharacteristic yell from Ellie, she flings me through the air.

I'm spinning wildly, I have no idea what's going on. I almost black out, but I manage to persevere.

Left chain's gone, but I still got the right!

I take it out and get ready!

*KEHRRUUUN!*

The dragon roars, and I catch a faint snapping noise.

I think it broke fr-

*CRRUUNCH*

"AAARGH!"

My left shoulder again!

I swing the right hook and feel it coil around something. I order Scrappy to pull me in and I grab onto a giant bone.

Looks like I crashed into its collarbone. It�fs cracked but not broken.

I eject the emergency potion flask from a hidden compartment in the back.

The faceplate opens and I chug it quickly. Part of the liquid spills out, but it's enough.

*POP*

"NGGH!"
It's not as painless as magic, but I can move my left arm again.

Kelly, it's Ellie, are you okay?

Wha-? How-

Answer inside your head.

I'm okay, I'm near its neck, try to hold out down there.

Roger, out!

Who's Roger and why is he out?

*KAAAHHHHRUUUUHHHN*

Ah it noticed me while I was spacing out.

I climb up the collarbone while it thrashes around trying to shake me off.

I manage to hold on and reach the spine.

Transforming my leg armor, I rearrange the plates to grip the bone. Like this, I safely anchor myself to the dragon's
vertebrae.

I am now riding a dragon.

...

Okay, moment over!

I reach my hand out and form a heavier mace than usual.

I grip it with both hands and using the golem to assist my swing-

*THWACK*

-slam it into the spine.

The bones barely take any damage.

This won't do.

I send some more commands and the mace head changes into a half pickaxe.

Now we're talking!

I swing it down again and it lands on the same spot, creating a small hole.

"Hah..."

I�fm riding a dragon and mining its back in midair.

"HAHAHHAHA!"

I laugh out at the bizarre situation.

Well whatever works!

"Heave ho!"

*THWACK*

"Heave ho!"

*CRACK*

"Heave ho!"

*CRUNCH*

"Heave ho!"

*SNAP*

*KAAAHRRAAKKHKHKHKhhaa*

The dragon's spine snaps with a roar that degraded into a whimper. The body goes limp and it's starting to fall.

Ellie, if you're listening you better catch me!

On it!

Geh, she actually replied.

Jump away from the body.

Alright, just have to ret-

...

The golem's legs won't move.

The golem's BLOODY LEGS WON'T MOVE!

Chapter 33 - Always read the fine print, even if you can't understand it -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

The leg plates are stuck or bent and won't move properly!

Some are still okay but most of them are busted. The dragon�fs thrashing was effective after all.

I hate to do this, but it beats dying.

Abandon ship!

Scrappy's steel wire mesh underneath the plates is dismantled.

The armor falls apart but I successfully separate from the dragon.

I feel that invisible force on my body again and slow down.

Ellie's got me!

Since I'm lighter now, she easily carries me over to her and the others.

The former dragon-

Or is it former 'former dragon'?

-crashes with a loud sound behind me.

Ellie gently sets me down.

Feeling the solid ground feels so nostalgic right now.

I throw my fists up in the air and scream with all my might!

"HAAAAA HAAAAAAA HAAAAA!

TAKE THAT YE GIANT BONY CUNT!

LET THAT BE A LESSON TO YA!

MESS WITH ME AND I'LL BASH YER FECKIN' 'EAD IN, MATE!

YEEEAAAaaaahhh...."

With the rush wearing off, I pass out.

***

I'm lying in a... hard bed?

"SCRAPPEEEH!"
I scream myself awake.

"Scrappy? Where's Scrappy?!"

I look around in a rush.

"Who's Scrappy?"

"Gah!"

I didn't notice, but Ellie was in the room.

Wait, room?

Ah, we're back at the rest stop.

"That, I mean, Scrappy is- sorry, was, my armor golem. Now poor Scrappy is simply scrap."

I shake my head. That's right, I had to leave poor Scrappy behind.

�gAwww, I was really looking forward to your show�c�h

I see, it�fs not just me, she�fs sad too. I can hardly blame her, Scrappy was quite excellent.

Well, the 5th generation held up for almost 8 months.

Time to redouble my efforts with the 6th!

*SLAM*

"Kelly!"

"You okay? We heard a scream!"

Bart and Red rush in through the door.

"Ah, yeah I'm okay."

They calm down a bit.

***

"So... what do we do about the contract?"

"His Lordship will probably pay up, he has no choice in the matter.

But we failed the actual objective so he's going to be angry."

Bart explains with a glum expression.

"Oh my, then what shall I do with this?"

Red flashes a bright smile and holds up something.

It's a beautiful green ring. The setting is shaped like a bearded dragon coiling around the drop-shaped
yellow gemstone.

My gut tells me this ring and that bone dragon are connected somehow.

Bart�fs eyes go wide. This is what His Lordship wanted huh?

"Finding lost things is an adventurer's specialty, you know? Maybe His Lordship simply needs to put up a request.
Surely some capable individuals will take him up on it."

What is she saying? This is blackmail, isn't it?

"H-how? Then.. why?"

Bart is stupefied. Well, I'm no better though.

I close my hanging jaw quickly.

"My, didn't His Lordship say it himself? Ellie is the best scout in the city."

So she got it while doing the initial scouting?

Then why did we even bother with-

Oh right, the request was to clear out the monster hole wasn't it?

"HAH! You girls never cease to amaze me you know?"

Red giggles lightly in response while Ellie gives a nod.

"You know, you're pretty extraordinary yourself, Kelly."

Bart turns to me all of a sudden

"First there's that unique armor concept. Then that reckless bravery and resourcefulness.

Also, I honestly had no idea you were a woman."

Ah, it happened again.

"Don't worry about it."

My armor is bulky and makes my voice weird. I don't act girly at all and I'm pretty strong.

So people assume I'm a man.

A few ladies who saw my gallant figure even asked me out, but I obviously can�ft accept that.

I�fm not like those two weirdos from Runetap that are getting mar-

Wait.

Oh? Oh! OHHHHH!

Oh.

" *Cough* It's a sudden question but...

Are Ellie and Red getting ma-married?"

I ask the completely ludicrous question.

But as expected-

"Why yes! Do we look THAT madly in love?

Fufufufu, it's in about a month you know?

Ahhhnnnn I honestly can't wait!"

Red starts fidgeting and making weird noises, causing Bart to recoil slightly.

So it's that after all. Well, it's none of my business.

"So in the end, what about my payment?"

I ask again since Bart didn't give a straight answer.

"Ah, right. I'll make personally sure the amount is paid in full."

He promised as such, got up and left the room.

"By the way Kelly, what're you going to do now?"

Red asks after finally snapping out of... whatever that was.

"I gotta finish Scrappy The Sixth, it's about halfway done. It's going to be pricey, but this contract should be enough
to finish it."

"So, any chance I can hire you?"

"... what?"

"Are you interested?"

My problem is I don't want to be near this person right now.

I feel a bit creeped out with her behavior today.

Well, the least I can do is...

"I'll hear you out."

" [Black Flame]'s team base needs a guard."

A guard? That's a bit of a mundane request.

"Also, our friend Nano needs an assistant. Nano's an engineer and works a lot with golems, much like you."

Oh, a kindred soul huh? That could be a mutually beneficial relationship!

"We'll provide a regular salary."

Salary is attractive. Having a bit of stability would be good.

"Your services may also be needed in the field with us. You don't have to sign on with the guild if you don't want
to."

Well, that's a bit of a sticking point, I don't rea-

"We can also provide rare materials."

"SOLD!"

Crap, I blurted it out!

"Well then, since you approve we'll smooth out the details later."

Damn, she roped me into it.

But I shall not go back on my word, otherwise I�fm finished as a mercenary.

Besides, if she's telling the truth it might be very good indeed. I want to meet this Nano first, but somehow I doubt
that will happen.

"Also, this is a separate request, but please come to our wedding !"

Geh!

I think I'd much rather fight another dragon.

End of Act Two - Rolling Thunder

AN: Howdy folks, this is most of what I have pre-typed. Releases will slow down a bit.
There's still a lot of things I want to put our girls through, so I'll be doing my best!
Also it's my first time writing fiction, so any criticism is appreciated.
Chapter 34 - Persistence is important when training a pet - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
Act Three - Awakening

> Kelly PoV <

I look up at the city gates and I let out a sigh. Somehow or other I got involved in something interesting.

But, I can't stand this place. It's way too abnormal.

Also for some reason Red told me to enter from the south gate.

The dwarven city of Hardvark, my previous home, is to the east, so I have to go around the wall.

Well, I shouldn't complain, it's my employer's request after all.

I sigh again.

I'm not drunk enough for this.

Thankfully, there's a solution to this problem.

*GULP GULP GULP GULP*

Ah, there we go!

I put away my trusty hip flask next to my other slightly shadier hip flask.

I'm running low on whiskey though. Wonder if that werewolf bar is still here?

"Come on Cloppy, let's get this over with."

I order the horse-shaped stone golem to line up behind the other carts.

In the end, I brought too much stuff from home, so I look like a merchant.

Let's just hope they don't do a full inspection or try to tax me.

***

"Good day and welcome to Runetap. What's the duration and reason for your visit?"

The guard greets me with a bored face.

"Good day, I'm here to immigrate. I was told to give you this letter of introduction."

I lean over and hold out the envelope Red left with me. She said that the guard would give me special treatment
when they see it.

The guard takes the envelope and reads it. With an equally bored expression he screams to the other guards.
"We have a K-2 by proxy at the gate! Inform the guard captain!"

Wait, what?

"D-did I do something wrong?"

"Ah no, just standard procedure. Don't worry about it.

Please pull your cart over to the guard station and dismount."

I do as I'm instructed. It's really just best to go with the flow with these things.

***

"Hiya, how ya doin'?"

The bandit-faced guard captain greeted with a casual tone.

"Good day. I'm here on behalf of Kiresr- er, Kiras- no-"

"Ah that's what the letter's fer, don't bother.

To be fair even I have trouble rememberin' Cra-

*Ffwit THUD*

-Madam's name. It is long after all."

"I can't really argue there."

"Right, so just answer a few questions fer me if ye would."

***

Some 10 minutes of simple questions later he finishes the form.

With a stamp and a signature he hands it to me.

------------------------------------------------------------------
Background confirmation form BG-K

Name: Kelly Darkhand

Race: Dwarf
Sex: F
Age: 29
Hair: Ginger
Eyes: Green
Special features: Way too much muscle
Birthplace: Hardvark
Father: No bloody idea
Mother: Gilda Darkhand
Siblings: Way too bloody many
Spouse: None of your bloody business
Known affiliations: Kiressara mil Quasse, Ellie
Previous offenses: None that she�fs aware of
Character evaluation: Likes blood a lot. Probably not a vampire.
Inspector: Guard Captain Olboun, Runetap
------------------------------------------------------------------

"There ya go. Don't worry about the contents, people only care about the stamp.

Anyway, have you known Cra-

*Ffwit THUD*

-Madam long?"

"We met during a job about two weeks ago."

"Oh is that the one where they flung a dwarf at a dragon?"

NOOOOO! Why is that already a rumor?

"Even for this town that's a bit out there you know?

But to bring it down with just four people, that's some strategy!"

Please don't praise my stupidity so honestly.

I always do that. Blood rushes to my head and I blurt out things no sane person would.

At least he doesn't seem to realize that dwarf was me.

"What about yourself? Have you known her long?"

Let's quickly change subjects before he puts two and two together.

"Not that long, somethin' like 2 years now?

At first I thought she was a hoodlum, but soon realized it's not like that. Folks around here just complain about her
too much.

Well, we met a lot when we had to arrest her, so we became close."

"... how often did you have to arrest her?"

"Ah, hard to say, sometimes we would go weeks without trouble.

I think we'll reach arrest number 500 this month though."

FIVE HUNDRED ARRESTS?

What kind of horrible criminal did I get involved with?

The captain noticed my face turning pale and spoke up.

"Ah, she was mostly innocent of those you know. We just have to do something when dozens of people file
complaints.
In truth, Cr-

*Ffwit THUD*

-Madam is a really good kid."

"I see, but can I ask the guard captain a more personal question?"

"Sure, go ahead!"

"Why do black throwing knives keep flying at you from outside the window?"

It's been worrying me for a while now, even if the captain doesn't mind. They barely miss his face, shaving off his
beard and hair slightly. There's about 10 of the things stuck in the wall behind him by now.

Is this some new grooming method?

"Eh, what are ya talkin' about? That sort of dangerous thing would never happen here, you know?"

He casually disregards my troubles with a huge grin.

I see, this particular trauma runs deep.

I definitely got involved with a bunch of criminals this time.

AN: I lied, I forgot this chapter was also ready.

Chapter 35- Mad scientists are born when regular scientists break their
moral compass - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

Red and Ellie met me as I passed the gates. They guided my cart to a small decrepit house.

Apparently there's a [Gateway] inside.

Normally you need three or four mages to feed it enough mana. Red can operate it by herself.

She definitely belongs in this city.

I arrive at a wide garden. Various flowers and crops are planted here and there. There's a tall, black metal fence
going all around us. A black, ominous looking tower stands in the middle of it all.

But what catches my sight is the white spider-like things. Those must be the golems they've been telling me about.

"Now then, you need to wear one of these."

Red points at her ear. Ah, I didn't even notice that weird ear cuff until now.

"It might sting a bit."

Ellie says as she walks to my side.

I sat on the ground as instructed. She fiddles with my ear a bit and then-

"Oww!"

A sharp pain goes through it, but it quickly passes.

{....ello, hel......ou h.....}

"Eh, there's a strange buzzing in my ear?"

{..ello, hello, can you hear me now?}

"Gah! A voice!"

{Ah it looks like that did it!}

{Hello Kelly, I'm Nano.}

WHY?

Why is it like this.

Is he shy? Is he even a he? How does this even work in the first place?

{This ear cuff will let us talk.}

{It will also block out Ellie's mind reading [Star Magic].}

{Since it�fs rude to do that to your friends, you see.}

"Ah, okay? Sorry this was a bit jarring.

Pleasure to meet you Nano."

{Likewise, I hold high hopes for you.}

{That armor you made was splendid.}

{It was a golem that assisted with your movements, right?}

"Hoooh, you have good eyes Nano! I can't wait to meet you in person."

{Ah, that's a bit impossible.}

So it really is like that. I figured as much.

You see these types of people, the ones who shun the world. They bury themselves in their work, it's a bit sad. It's
especially true for people working in obscure fields like me.

"Well, that's a shame. I'm sure someone like yourself has a lot to teach me."

"Ah, but Nano isn't a person."

***

Well, that was a long explanation. I still don't believe this [Star Magic] is actually magic though.

First of all, the golems are way too versatile. They have a lot of moving parts and strange devices. Also as usual
there isn't a drop of mana coming from them.

I'm more sensitive to the flow of mana than others. It's a necessary skill when creating something like Scrappy.

This Nano knows almost nothing of traditional golems.

However, we're sure to come up with some good things if we cooperate.

Right now I'm heading into the tower's underground levels. The tower itself is way too fancy on the inside, even
though the outside is so ragged.

{Okay Kelly, I need you to promise me something.}

{I'm about to show you a lot of things.}

{It would be very bad if others got wind of them.}

"... how bad?"

{Worst case, world could end.}

"That's pretty bad."

They literally fell from the stars. It makes sense that they dragged along some forbidden things that shouldn�ft
exist.

{So, promise me to keep them under wraps.}

"I promise."

{Oh, also don't mention them to Kira.}

"Why not?"

She lives here, surely she deserves a right to know.

{It would do nothing but cause her to worry.}

Yeah, Red is a genuine worry wart.

Unless it's about money, then she becomes a completely different person.

"Okay, I promise."

{By the way I'm always listening.}

{If you ever slip up, the earpiece will explode, taking your head with it.}

Ugeh!

What is this!? That wasn't in the contract!

These people are clearly criminals after all aren't they!?

{Then, welcome! To my workshop!}

The doors slide open to reveal a storm of sparks, grinding and screeching.

This... I am most assuredly not drunk enough for this.

I have this entire act written, but I still need to proofread and touch it up a lot.
English isn't my native language and I want to do it properly, so bear with me.
I'll try to get it done in the next several hours since I'm a bit excited, but no promises
Chapter 36 - Itches are meant to be scratched. Ignore them at your own
peril. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

Gather the mana.

Mold it into an image.

Give it a direction.

And, release!

"------ [Firestorm]"

A tornado of flames appears above the tower. I wave my staff to guide the spell, and it sways along.

It moves gracefully like Ellie does during her training. The fierce glow is just like the glint in her eyes whenever she
focuses. And when it went out, it's almost as if-

... went out?

Guh, I got distracted again and lost the spell. No good, I need to keep training my focus. If I don't properly guide the
mana, I can't sustain the spell's form.

It's mostly okay during a job since the tension helps me concentrate. But at home where there's no danger, I can't do
it.

My mind drifts off to Ellie at every opportunity. Somehow, if she's not next to me I can't settle down.

That first night we met, she already stole my heart. Her wonderful, elegant form just gripped my soul and wouldn't
let go!

That look that seemed to say 'I will accept all of you' without doubts! Then, the softness of her body and the taste of
her lips!

Kyuuuuu!

"Red, you alright?"

Who dares!

Kelly recoils when I glare at her.

"Red, your eyes were scary just now..."

...

Oops, I got carried away again! She's looking at me with a worried face.

"Sorry Kelly. And no, I don't feel too good."

"You didn't look too good either. Your breathing is ragged and your face is flushed.

I keep seeing you like that ever since I came here yesterday. Something tells me it started earlier than that, though."

That can't be, right? Surely Ellie would tell me if she noticed something obvious like that.

She's super kind, after all. She treats even the slightest scratches on me with utmost care. Even if she goes overboard
sometimes I can't bring myself to hate her for it.

It's all for my sake in the end.

"Red, you're doing it again."

"Uuuu, I don't know what to do with myself."

"Hey Nano, you're always watching the girls right?"

{Please don't say it like I'm a stalker.}

{But yes, I watch OVER them.}

"So you must've noticed Red's condition right?"

{I did notice symptoms like these earlier, they started 3 days after the dragon hunt.}

{However, they were much more subdued and are like no sickness I know.}

"Hoooh, I see, I see, it's like that huh?"

Kelly starts nodding with a knowing smile.

{Kelly, you're familiar with these symptoms?}

"Aye, I've suffered a few times like that."

{Is it some magical disease after all?}

"That's wrong, it's not a disease, it's something natural actually."

"Then can you help me with this Kelly? I can't focus on my training like this."

"Sorry, Red."

Kelly shakes her head.

"It's not something I can, uh, assist with. Normally I would be able to give some pointers but...

There's certain, ummm, mechanical issues, with this case."

"Ah!"

I just remembered something. Something rather vital.

"Thanks for your help Kelly, I think I know what you mean.
Nano, I'll be needing your input later!"

{Hmm, so it's something I didn't know about after all?}

Kelly let out a chuckle at Nano's question.

"Well, to be fair Nano, there's no way you could know.

After all, you're not a person, right?"

Chapter 37 - Good things come to those who wait, but they still need to
reach out and grasp them - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

I hope Nano's advice from earlier will work. It felt a bit wrong to ask those things from someone like Nano.

But since Nano isn't a person, it's probably okay.

Tonight I excused myself from dinner and went to bed early.

It's a bit lonely being by myself, but I hear footsteps.

Ellie finally walks into the room. After putting on her pajamas, she walks up to the bed.

However, she freezes when she sees me.

"Hey Ellie."

I say with a coy smile.

"Umm, uhhh, Kira?"

Ohh that flustered face is perfect!

"What's wrong, Ellie?"

"N-no, it's n-nothing."

She stammers out and timidly climbs into bed with me. I wrap myself around her with my arms and legs.

"Kira, are, *haaah*, are you feeling okay?"

"I am now, fufufufu."

I embrace her with my whole body, taking in her scent. She's trembling a bit and her breathing becomes rougher.

"K-kira, what's goin- Hnnn, going on?"

"Well, you see my sweet Ellie."

I lift her chin with my hand so she's properly looking at my eyes.

"I love you."

"I love Kira too..."

Uuuu, that's no fair!

Come here you!

"MMmmmnnmnnnmmmmm"
I draw her into an extra long kiss.

Ah, I want to keep kissing her some more!

But I can't, there's more important things to do. I reluctantly part with her lips.

There's a single string of saliva connecting us.

She's looking up at me with dazed eyes and flushed cheeks.

"I want to give you something special to me."

I caress her slender body. As usual, she's really soft.

"Something precious that can only be given once."

I gently whispered while stroking her thighs. I can feel her heart pounding through her skin.

"Is that why K-kira is is is n-n-aked?"

"That's right, it's something that can only be given like this..."

I slide my hand down her front, past her stomach.

***

"Good morning Ellie..."

I see her the instant I open my eyes.

Her upper body is lying on top of me, her fair skin rubs against mine.

"Kira..."

She moves her face closer to mine.

Our lips meet again.

I reflexively grab her and-

***

I finally made it out of bed.

Somehow, I immediately regret that decision.

The room is a mess, when did it become like this?

There's clothes and books all over the floor. Come to think of it, we did get pretty wild that time.

I stretch my body a few times, I really should put on some underwear.

I bend over to pick some up from the floor.

"Kira, I'm sorry, it's impossible!"

Ellie, who was watching the naked me from the bed, leaps at me.

***

Ahh, the bath is relaxing after all.

We did get pretty sticky.

The smell was something else too. I didn't particularly mind that though. It was Ellie's scent.

Speaking of her, she's washing my back right now.

"Kira has such beautiful skin."

She puts some more power into her scrubbing.

"AAahhhhnn.."

Her hands feel really good, I let out a moan.

"Unnnn, haaaah, mmmmnnn..."

Ellie nuzzles into my neck, pecking it slightly.

I feel those hands slowly reach around towards my chest...

Chapter 38 - Holding it in too long can cause medical problems - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

"Good morning you two, finally made it down the steps huh?"

Kelly calls out to us from the table. She's already started eating her breakfast.

"Good morning, Kelly."

"Hnnn, nyud myornin Kielly, heeeh."

Ellie is too busy rubbing her cheek on my shoulder to reply properly. Her face is completely loose.

She's embracing my arm with both of hers. I feel two soft globes resting on it.

Ah no, no good.

If I give in to my desire here I'll be nothing but a pervert!

Although it may already be too late for that. We ended up doing that for the whole day yesterday.

And... for most of last night, now that I think about it.

"Look, Red, I'll be honest with you. You girls are out of control.

I don't mind if you do what you do but...

I could hear you five floors down, all the way in the basement! Do you have any idea how uncomfortable that made
me feel?"

Wow, were we that loud?

"Also I swear I felt the tower shake a few times..."

"Erk!"

Th-th-that's kind of scary, isn't it?

"... Nano?"

{It's true, I was quite puzzled at first.}

{It seems Kira discharges mana unconsciously whenever she, um, discharges.}

{As a result, several shockwaves went through the tower.}

{Don't worry, I'll have the drones renovate and reinforce your room.}

{They'll add some sound and shock absorbing materials.}

"See, problem solved."

I show a smile at Kelly. She's making a difficult face for some reason.

"Um, Nano, were you... peeping on them?"

{Please don't say it like I'm some shady character...}

"It's okay since Nano isn't a person."

"... I suppose that's right, isn't it?"

Well, Kelly still needs to get used to life with Nano. I'm sure they'll get along great before long.

"Eheheheheee, Kiiiraa...."

Ah I almost forgot.

"Come on Ellie, eat some food. We missed out on training yesterday so we have work to do!"

�gUuuu�c fine�c�h

No, even if you give me that sad look, taking things too far is bad.

She parts from my arm a bit regretfully and sits down.

She casually drops Nano's tool on the table. A small cylindrical item with a specific shape.

*KOTORORORORO*

It rolled magnificently across the wooden surface, leaving behind a wet trail.

"Ugh, is.. is that... URP!"

Kelly urgently ran out of the room while holding her mouth.

I can faintly hear the sounds of her throwing up outside.

Isn�ft that an overreaction?

No, maybe I�fm already nothing but a pervert.

***

"Haaaaaah..."

I sigh to myself while on the toilet. This is my last remaining haven.

It's been three days since Ellie and I took our relationship to the next level.

The odd feelings of anxiety and frustration I had before are gone now.

However, Ellie refuses to calm down. I would say it's gotten worse.
She's insatiable and chases after me constantly.

But at the same time, I can't bring myself to flatly deny her without a reason.

If I do that too much, she will start behaving strangely.

Running around all over the place, letting her moans leak out at random.

She actually looks to be in a lot of pain. It completely makes my heart break.

So after a while I always end up helping her get some relief. Well, I say that, but it's more like I'm being used.

Her attacks are too heavy and precise. A truly voracious girl!

Well, it feels good so I really have nothing to complain about, right?

Wrong!

I can't do anything else!

It takes up a lot of time and I'm constantly tired.

In any case, this clearly isn't natural.

Surely any human being would be satisfied with that mu-

Wait...

"Say, Nano?"

{What is it Kira?}

"Ellie isn't human right?"

{Technically she is, but at the same time she's a Felis.}

"Mix-breeds are impossible though?"

{It's not that, it's more like her race was forced on her.}

Uwah, there's something that can do that?

[Star Magic] is scary!

"But, her recent attitude is clearly strange no matter how you look at it.

Could it be something related to her race?"

{I can't say, that girl is one-of-a-kind in every possible way.}

{It's a bit early for her routine health check-up, but this might be an emergency.}

{I'll see what I can do.}

"Thanks Nano."

*Knock knock knock*

"Kiirrraaa! Hurry uuuuupp!"

So she's finally unable to bear it.

However, I already know.

That isn't the urge to use the toilet.

Chapter 39 - Courage is not the absence of fear, but the drive to push
past it - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

{Ellie, Kira, I have something to say.}

Nano had gathered us around a table.

"Heeeee, nnnaaaaa, mmmnnnnnaaa...."

"Ellie, this is important, please stop rubbing your face on me."

Even after scolding her and almost pushing her off, she refuses to let go of me.

She�fs changed. As predicted her bizarre behavior kept getting worse. The quiet, cute girl from a week ago is
nowhere to be found.

It was stressing Kelly out so much we had to send her to Runetap for a few days. Hopefully she'll recover in the
werewolf bar there.

{Well, I'll cut straight to the point.}

{Ellie's recent experience has sent her body into heat.}

This is... making more sense than it should.

{It's a defect from the Felis treatment.}

As I thought, it's her strange race in the end.

"So we just need to wait it out? It might be uncomf-�h

{We can't.}

Nano cut me off�c he never does that!

{Her body doesn't know what to do with itself, so it's going wild.}

{If we do nothing, then at this rate, she will die in a few days.}

...

All the color disappeared from the world.

Ellie can't die! She's my sun, my moon, my everything!

I reflexively hug her like someone's trying to take her from me.

No, that may actually be the case.

"Th-th-there's something you can do right?"

{Yes, but it's an extreme measure.}

"Tell me."

{To begin with, the problem is that her state is incomplete.}

{So the way to stabilize it is to finish the treatment.}

"NO!"

Ellie screamed and bolted away from me.

She's on down on all fours, expression like a feral beast.

"Ellie, please, this is-"

"NO! NO! NO MORE!"

She's screaming with bloodshot eyes.

"NO MORE INJECTIONS AND CHAIRS!"

This girl is screaming like her teeth are being pulled.

"NO MORE PROBING AND CUTTING!"

Her pain, her fear, I can feel them flow through me.

"NO MORE CHAINS AND PRISONS!"

What... what do I do...

{Ellie. Please listen to reason.}

{There�fs a good chance that-}

�gNO!�h

Nano tries to talk to her, but...

"No... please... no.."

She curls up and starts shivering.

"Ellie..."

I reach my hands out to her and take a few steps.

She curls up even more.

I approach slowly and kneel down.

I embrace her head gently, trying my best to soothe her, but her shaking won't stop.
Why?

"Nano, why?"

{If Ellie goes through with this, she's going to change.}

{I can guess how much to some extent, but we can�ft be sure.}

{Also, this is something that old fart forced on her, and that terrifies her.}

"Can you do it?"

{Yes, I can. There�fs a seed inside her, I just need to make it grow.}

{All I need is her approval.}

"Ellie, I know it must be terrible, but..."

"I DON'T WANT TO BE A WEAPON!"

She screams into my chest with all her might.

"I don't... want to be a monster..."

"There�fs no way Ellie will ever be a monster!�h

I rebuke her immediately.

There�fs no way.

Even if the whole world says so.

Even if Ellie herself says so!

I will refute everything until the end!

There's no way my sweet, passionate Ellie will ever be a monster.

"But... I'm scared...

I don't want to be like them...

If the only way is to become like those.. things!

I'd rather die!"

*SLAP*

My palm strikes her cheek with all my might.

Overcome by anger, I hit Ellie for the first time in my life.

Her face is facing the ground, refusing to return my gaze.

"DON'T SAY THAT! Don't... ever say that!"

I stifle down the rage in my heart.

When we met, my life found new meaning. I don't want to lose her.

Whatever's happening, I am the cause. If Ellie dies like this, I will have killed her.

I... don't know if I can bear that.

So please, Ellie, don't die!

...

She's still quivering. She looks so tiny.

How can I save her? How can I help her?

...

No...

That's wrong.

This girl did not ask for my help.

Ellie clearly said she wished for death.

What I was thinking was just my own selfishness.

I see, this is something I, not Ellie, wanted.

In that case, I will force it on her!

I straighten up, cross my arms and shout with a command tone-

"Adventurer Ellie of [Black Flame]!"

She looks up at me with a shocked expression. Some semblance of light comes back to her vacant eyes.

"As your leader, I order you to survive with all your might!

As your friend, I ask that you do not lose yourself!

But above all else, as your future wife...

I beg of you, live! Live on and let me love you!"

I give voice to my wish.

To this one desire of mine which will not be denied.

"Waah! Uk, uk, uk, uwaaaaah!"

Ellie finally breaks out into full blown sobbing.

"Yez! YEZ! I *hic hic* I promize!"

I kneel down and gently hold her.

"That's my girl. Let it all out..."

I will stay with her until her tears run dry.

Until my life runs out.

Until my bones turn to dust.

Until the last ember of my soul fades away.

Nothing will take her away from me.

Well, this one took an unexpectedly dark turn.

Even I'm not sure how it ended up like this.
This was supposed to be light-hearted yet...
Chapter 40 - Surgeries are tough on everyone involved, especially the
surgeon - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

I escort Ellie down to Nano's workshop. He doesn't usually let me in here, but this time is different.

No matter what happens, I will witness it with my own eyes.

I bring Ellie over to a white table. She strips completely and lays down on top.

I strap her in as per Nano's instructions.

Nano will be working hard, so he won�ft be able to respond once it starts.

Chest, waist, head, arms and legs are bound to the table.

She's scared, she's obviously been through something horrifying.

I grab hold of Ellie's hand and pat her hair.

"It's okay, I'm here" I whisper.

Ellie steels herself and-

"Nano, I'm ready!"

{Okay, you might feel a little prick!}

{Procedure starting in 5... 4...}

I lightly kiss her.

{3...}

"I love you."

{2...}

"I love you too."

{1...}

�gAAAARRGHH!�h

***

Ellie's been screaming and thrashing for half an hour now.

If it wasn't for the restraints, she would hurt herself without a doubt.

My heart aches when I see her in pain like this.

But I can�ft do anything about it.

Magic might interfere with Nano�fs work.

I feel so useless right now I want to scream!

But I will keep holding her hand and caressing her cheek.

Even if it's only this much, I will do what I can.

***

It's been three hours since the treatment started.

She's been lying motionless since a little while ago.

She passed out, but she's still breathing.

I'm worried. Nano said this would happen, but I can't help myself.

I worry, it's what I do.

Suddenly her face twitches.

I stare at it with a glimmer of hope, but she's not waking up.

Then, her hair starts rustling with a sound like crumpled paper.

Two triangular clumps of fur poke out from under her scalp.

Cat ears.

They're blue on the outside and have white fur on the inside.

They perk upright and stand at attention.

What?

***

Four and a half hours in.

An slight noise like tearing paper is heard near her waist.

A slender, blue-furred tail pops out behind her, slowly growing in size.

...

What?

***

Five hours in.

This time, a cracking sound from her mouth.

Filled with curiosity, I slightly open her mouth with my fingers.

Her canines are becoming longer.

They keep growing, isn't this bad?

Oh they stopped.

Now they're shaking.

And they retreat back to almost normal size, maybe slightly longer?

...

What?

***

Seven hours in.

At one point fur started appearing all over her, but then it fell away on its own.

This happened two more times after that.

Also, her nails fell off and grew back.

I don't even know anymore.

There's nothing I can do but pray.

So that's what I'm doing right now.

I'm really good at praying you know!

Don't underestimate a Bishop's daughter!

...

Please Ellie, please be safe.

***

??? hours in.

"Kira?"

I wake up instantly at the tiny voice.

I don't know when it happened, but I must have dozed off.

"Ellie!?"
I cup her cheeks with both hands in a panic.

"Kira..."

"Yes, I'm here, I'm right here Ellie!"

"Kira... I... can't..."

No... NO!

"Ellie, what's wrong?

Nano? Nano what's going on?

Answer me you invisible peeping bastard!"

"Kira... please..."

*GRRROWWWWLLLLL*

"I'm hungry..."

***

*Nom nom munch*

"Really now, don't do that to me! My stomach was doing backflips!"

{Haha, sorry Kira, I was still wrapping up the treatment.}

*sssslurp nom urp!*

{Also, 'invisible peeping bastard' huh? So that's what you really think of me.}

"No, well, that was..."

{Just kidding, I made a miscalculation so it took much longer than I thought.}

{I'll bear any complaints you have, I was at fault in the end.}

"Haaah, I ate well."

Ellie sighed at the devastation on the table.

"Wait, Ellie, you ate it all!? What about my share!?"

Ellie's treatment had taken almost 18 hours.

She became absolutely ravenous in that time.

I�fm used to survival situations so I can bear the hunger pains.

Ultimately she's safe and her body is no longer in danger. Or shifting around strangely.
She's a bit closer to a cat now, but it's still the same old Ellie.

Well, with extras.

*Scritch scritch*

"HIIIYAA!

D-Don't touch them so suddenly!"

Her new ears are quite sensitive. They feel really good when I scratch them.

The guards get mad at me when I scratch random cat-folk in the street. Even though the 'victim' themselves don't
seem to mind.

But I just can�ft help myself, the sensation is indescribable!

Also, she purrs whenever she's really happy.

"Kyaaaaa! I can't help myself Ellie is just too cuuuute!"

I grab her and vigorously stroke those fluffy things.

Yup, they feel great.

"Uuuu.... K-k-ira.. th-that..."

Ah, there is one more thing.

Her heat didn't go away yet.

Nano said it should calm down in a few days and there's no more danger.

Until then-

Fufufufufu.

"Since Ellie ate my lunch, shall I 'eat' Ellie instead?"

***

I was the one that got devoured in the end though.

That part of her wasn�ft due to her condition, it�fs just how she is.
Side Story - Chemically speaking, alcohol IS a solution - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

Ah, finally out of that blasted house. Tower. Whatever.

�gOi barkeep, pour me ano- *urp* another will ya?�h

I call out to the bartender. He gives me a look like I�fve had too many. I say there�fs not enough too many of
him!

There�fs only two of ya, think you can take me! Oh, beer�fs here!

*GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Ahhh, nothing beats werewolf ale. For being a bunch of fuzzy unsophisticated louts, they sure make good beer. I just
wish they�fd keep their hands to themselves. It�fs not like their uh, blacksmithing and stuff, will get better
with�c

Wait, was it werewolves or dwarves I was thinking about. Hmmm.

Oh well, at least it�fs peaceful here. I can�ft even sleep with those two running wild. Are those even human
noises they make. And they keep shaking the blasted house. Tower. What gives?

Is that little lass that sturdy? Hmm�c maybe�c

�c

Huh? Oh right, peaceful. Wonder if the barkeeps will let me sleep here. Ah beer�fs getting cold. I mean.. warm.

*GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG*

*SLAM*

Ah, that�fs some good stuff. It hit me so hard I accidentally smashed the�c bar�c in two�c Mug's still whole
though. Good mug.

Good mug, yeah. Ah now there�fs 5 barkeeps. Finally up for a fight huh? Want me to get up from the stool do ya?

All right I�fll show ya me mean right hoooooo-

*FLOP*

Oi, the ground jumped up and hit me! Feckin�f Runetap. Who fights with the ground in a fist fight?

Buncha cowards the lot of em. The ground�fs no good�c for fightin�c but�c

Mmmmm�c cold�c.

*Snore Snore*
*Poke*

Go away mate

*Poke*

�gMMrph�h

There, that should-

*Poke*

Alright ya little, have a taste of me RISING UPPERCUT!

*Bang*

�gUrk!�h

Huhuhu, got ya good ya�c guard�c dressed�c person�c whoopsie�c

Ah, now the werewolves are lookin�f at me funny. Right. Time for some.

Peaceful. Negotta- Nogo-

For some diplomacy!

�gLookie here fellas, let�fs not do somet- *urp* something you�fll regret. Especially you winkie, stop givin me
the stink eye!

Yea YOU! With the wink and the stink and the�c oh I see how it is mate, you havin�f a go at me?

Alright, bring it, I�fll take you and all your mates!

I can whoop yer sorry hides with one h- *urp* hand tied behind my back!

Look, I�fm calm buddy, you just *urp* need to not be *urp* so close cuz ya smell like wet dog.�h

*Blam* *Crash*

Owww, for a lil puppy he sure packs a punch. Alright, kid gloves is off now.

Here I come ya fleabags!

***

�gUUugh, my head�c�h

Yep, that�fs a headache alright. Hangover or head injury - only time will tell.

I woke up in a filthy alley. Sun�fs up already huh?

There�fs some random bloke passed out in a trash bin next to me. Oh no, not again!

�c
Okay, I still have my clothes on this time, so I think I�fm safe.

Ah, I feel so much better now. Spiritually, at least.

Last night was worth it, though they probably won�ft let me in that bar for a while.

I don�ft remember anything past when I had that silver-haired one in a headlock.

Hopefully I didn�ft steal anything this time.

I just hope Ellie and Red are finally back to normal.

Wait�c what if that is their normal now.

Urk, no good.

*BLEUUURRRGH*

I vomited on the passed out guy. Well, it�fs a life lesson for him.

I feel much better though. Wonder where else I can grab a pint around here?

...

Why am I still holding that mug?

Chapter 41 - Always check the weather forecast when planning
important events - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

Today is finally the day!

I can't wait, I'm so excited I might grow another tail!

Wait no, that's wrong isn't it?

It's not like the tail actually helps.

Isn't it also slightly in the way?

Maybe, I should cut it off after all?

...

No, let's not.

Kira will be angry.

She gets really scary when she's angry.

{Focus Ellie, you're up soon!}

Oh, right, I have an important mission today.

I've been training intensively and my gear is in top shape.

Preparation is important.

Alright, time to give my all today as well!

***

I step out into the corridor.

I walk slowly across the carpet and enter the main chamber.

I've been here several times, it's the Church of Enuri.

Usually it's empty with only a few people doing dogeza.

But today it's full.

Well, obviously, it's Kira's wedding.

Ah, and mine too.

My gear for this mission is a frilly wedding gown.

It's light blue, I like it.

I walk towards the center where the sun statue is.

Esteemed Father is already there.

Well, he's in charge so it's as expected.

I thought he had a bad relationship with Kira.

But in the end he's just a dad worried sick about his daughter.

So nice, Kira's so lucky to have a great dad.

I wish I had a dad like that.

Nano tries but Nano isn�ft any good at it.

That opinion�fs my little secret though.

Then again, I'm marrying Kira so maybe I'm the lucky one?

I arrive at the middle of the hall while thinking such things.

I stand on my spot, slightly to the left of Esteemed Father.

"Ah.. eh... when did one of the brides get there?"

One of the guests speaks up in surprise.

Oops, I got too into it again.

I was erasing my presence on reflex.

Now they're all getting noisy.

Well, it's fine for now.

Ohhh, Kira's coming!

She has the same gown as me!

Only it's slightly red.

It suits her so much I want to push her down and-

No, no, I need to control myself for now.

At least until tonight.

Kira reaches the podium and stands opposite me.

The way her dress frames her br-

No!

Ooooooooohm.

Ooooooooohm.

Ooooooooohm.

Fuuuuuu.

"The light of Enuri welcomes one on all on this Joyous Day.

And on this Joyous Day, we celebrate the life that has brought Ellie and Kiressara together."

Esteemed father started the sermon.

I have to stand here and be patient.

That is today's crucial mission.

Ah, Kira's biting her lip.

She must be struggling as well.

Fight, Kira!

Mmmmm, that lip sure looks t-

No!

Grab a hold of yourself Ellie!

"If any soul wishes to object to this joining, let them speak now for-"

"I OBJ-"

*Ffwit THUD*

"GYAAAAAAAA!"

When did Flatface get here?

Luckily he�fs not near anything valuable.

Blood from his shoulder wound will cause nasty stains otherwise.

Hmm?

He's still not backing down.

Nothing less from a Rank A adventurer.

But, I can't let him cause a scene!

Maybe the other shoulder?

How about the thigh?

Oh, I know!

*Ffwit Ffwit THUD THUD*

"GYEEEAAAAAAA!"

Alright, both of them was the right answer.

He�fs retreating peacefully.

I'm glad I brought my emergency blades.

Because there was an emergency.

And it needed a blade.

Multiple blades, actually.

"Then, since there are no objections.�h

Esteemed Father kept going as if Flatface is invisible.

Maybe he didn�ft notice?

Well, his flat face makes hiding much easier, in a way.

�gKiressara mil Quasse, do you accept everything that Ellie is, was or will be?

Do you promise to cherish and protect her for as long as Enuri shines down upon us?"

"I do."

Uuuuu, this is taking too long!

"Ellie, do you accept everything that Kiressara mil Quasse is, was or will be?

Do you promise to cherish and protect her for as long as Enuri shines down upon us?"

"I d-do."

I stuttered!

"Kukuku-"

Kira don't giggle like that, it's embarrassing me!

" *Ahem* As the witness of Enuri, I have heard your oaths.

From this Joyous Day forth, you shall be known as wife... and wife.
You may now kiss the bride."

*Mmmmmnnnmnmnnnnnmmmmmmwah*

*Clapclapclapclapclapclapclap*

Huhuhuhuhu, it was worth the wait.

Now all that's left is to-

*BANG*

"Evacuate immediately! A High Dragon was spotted heading right for this city!"

A guard ran in screaming.

"WHAT!?"

This is bad, the city might disappear.

"How dare he!�h

Kira's angry.

�gOn our day!?"

Kira�fs really scary when she�fs angry.

"Kelly! You brought my staff right? Give it here!"

Is today the day Kira finally levels this place?

"I'll teach that poop tornado to mess with me!"

If she's aiming toward the sky, maybe it'll be okay?

Ah, she went outside in a huff.

I'm obviously following.

Since I�fm the wife.

Plus, I get to see Kira's serious-mode magic.

Nano said her full power could bring down a Titan-class dreadnought in one shot!

As usual, Kira is almost too amazing.

Wait, I came up with a solution for that, right?

She's just Kiramazing.

Yep, it fits.
Hmm? The Bone Dragon?

No no no, that was a fluke.

It got lucky.

Kira had used most of her mana burying that castle.

But this time it's different.

"---------------------"

So that dot in the sky is the dragon huh?

"---------------------"

He's really high up!

"---------------------"

Is that why it's a 'high' dragon?

"---------------------"

Whoever names things around here has good sense as usual!

> Narrator PoV <

The city of Runetap.

A noisy place that attracts trouble.

Its citizens call it "the city where anything can happen" with a bittersweet smile.

Today as well would be no different.

A bald old man found a six-legged pig, starting the legend of Arachno-Hog.

The reanimated brain of a rat-crazy necromancer and his assistant, Pinky, were enjoying some time off in the sewer.

The first ever wedding between two women was held.

And a promising female adventurer set a new world record-

"[Grand Solar Flare]"

-by getting arrested for the 500th time in two years.

End of Act Three - Awakening

It's not the end of the story, by the way, even if it looks like it.
It just might take a while for the next bits.
Chapter 42 - A serious housewife is an enemy worthy of Rank B - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gI have to say, Madam, this is something I never thought ya would actually do.�h

Old Boisterous Uncle was giving Kira a lecture.

Kira did something bad apparently.

I�fm here too.

Because I�fm the wife.

�gGuard Captain, you know full well there�fs no way I could predict that!�h

Kira complained at the unfair treatment.

�gAny kid in this town could tell ya that would happen when ya fire a spell like that in the city!�h

It�fs true, I saw it all.

The [Grand Solar Flare] was magnificent.

It came down like Phalanx-class orbital bombardment!

It hit the unaware High Dragon full on.

A leg and a wing fell somewhere outside the city.

The rest of it was vaporized.

�gI understand, you know? Nobody wants to shovel wagon-fulls of dragon dung out of the city.�h

Right, that dragon was notorious.

It�fs the same one that pooped on the keep some years ago.

Apparently it did it to several other towns too.

Why would it aim at towns with its poop?

What kind of degenerate behavior is that?

Did it want to be a pigeon or something?

Or just was it just a moron?

Either way, I think Kira was too soft on it.

How can it repent properly when it doesn�ft have any bones to heal?
�gBut because ya failed to control that spell, ya incinerated half the western quarter!�h

Well, orbital bombardment like that is hard to aim.

The whole point is you wouldn�ft need to.

�gStill, nobody died right?�h

That�fs right, the city was mostly empty.

These people ran away really fast when the dragon showed up.

They must practice a lot.

�gWell yeah, but 30,000 people lost their homes ya know?�h

Oh, that�fs actually kind of terrible isn�ft it?

So Kira did a bad thing after all.

�gThe city can�ft pay for that since the cause is someone acting in her own interest.

Especially since that same someone extorted His Lordship about a month ago.�h

�gAh�c something like that�c did happen, didn�ft it?�h

Kira�fs face is cramping up.

Hmmm?

I know that look on her face!

It�fs the �enot-actually-my-fault�f face!

As the wife, this is something I can not overlook.

Dishonesty is bad after all.

�gThis is clearly Kira�fs fault, so don�ft try to escape!�h

�gUgeh!�h

�gSee, even Ellie admitted yer clearly the culprit. This is the first time you�fre completely at fault, so I can�ft let
this one slide!�h

�gUuuuuu�c�h

As expected, Kira is weak to combination attacks.

�gSo there you have it, C- *cough* Madam.�h

Old Boisterous Uncle, good job!

You actually corrected yourself!

What is this weird sense of pride I�fm feeling?

Right, Nano said rewards are necessary at times like this!

I take out a piece of candy from my pocket and toss it.

*Nom*

Old Boisterous Uncle magnificently catches it with his mouth.

�g *Munch munch* Yer punishment *munch* is actually *gulp* pretty lenient. Since ya took down that Bone
Dragon, the city owes you.�h

�gHmm, but wasn�ft Kira the one who released it?�h

That doesn�ft seem particularly a good deed you know?

�gWas there somethin�f like that? Well, the details are unimportant. In the end, you just have to partly
compensate the city for the damage.�h

Kira�fs face is now completely pale.

Kira really likes money, so she hates parting with it.

Oh, Kira is hesitating again!

Time to attack with a stern warning.

�gKira, please take responsibility properly. Otherwise our whole family will be in trouble.�h

�gI�fll pay! Right now! Cash is good yes?�h

Instant reply, as expected.

Because I applied pressure with the F-word.

It's important and shouldn't be used lightly.

However, there are times when it's necessary.

Like this one, thus it was used.

This is also one of the duties of a wife.

We made a lot of money lately so we should be able to cover the fine.

Barely.

***

We�fre enjoying a walk around town.

Kira still looks really depressed.

{I think Kira took more damage just now than when that drunk werewolf flipped her skirt up.}

�gNano! Please don�ft remind me of that! Also, wasn�ft it Ellie that broke all his ribs?�h

Well obviously.

I'm sure he's carefully reflecting on his behavior.

I was even being generous since Kira�fs underwear wasn�ft seen.

Otherwise I would have gouged his eyes out with a toothpick.

The punishment has to fit the crime, after all.

{That may be so, but you didn�ft need to incinerate half the bar because of that one guy.}

{What I�fm saying is, you tend to lose control of your magic when you�fre upset.}

{This is a potential problem and something I want us to work on.}

I see, I see.

�gI agree with Nano. Kira lacks discipline!�h

At least my outbursts are focused and relatively harmless.

Kira�fs can destroy part of a city.

�g... what�fs with this all of a sudden. This is unlike you, Nano?�h

{Haha, you saw through me, huh? I actually have a big favor to ask from you.}

{I want all of us, including Kelly, to hunt down the missing [Starshards]. And soon.}

{There�fs some really bad things that are unaccounted for.}

Also some really fun things.

But I keep quiet.

This is a serious discussion, so I have to be serious.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gI�fm a bit worried about our home when you say that. Should we be hoarding that much dangerous stuff there?
�h

{Let me put it this way, the things we�fre keeping are enough to, at most, level a city.}

{The things that are missing are much much worse.}

{We will be disposing of such items to make sure they�fre never put to use.}
�gI see. So that�fs why you�fve been bugging me about getting stronger lately.�h

{That�fs right. If those things fell into the wrong hands, there�fs no telling what can happen.}

{Ah, speaking of dangerous things, Kelly has a few she would like to show you.}
Chapter 43 - A good toy will inspire wonder regardless of a person�fs
age - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

Uuuuu, that feels good�c.

Kira�fs way too good at using her hands.

At first I was really sensitive�c

Ahhn!

But even after so many times it feels way too good!

Mmnnn!

I don�ft think I can endure this...

My head is going blank�c no�c I�fm�c going to-

*Prrrrrrrrrrrr*

-purr despite my best efforts!

*Scritch scritch*

My head is on Kira�fs lap while she scratches my ears.

She really enjoys it, so this is her reward for properly taking responsibility earlier.

Hmmm? Me?

No no no, this is a special service for Kira�fs sake.

The fact that she�fs considerably skilled at it is irrelevant.

*Scritch scritch*

*Prrrrrrrrrrrr*

I wonder where Kira learned this amazing technique?

No, I have a good idea where.

�gKira.�h

I look up at her while my head is still on her lap.

�gYes, Ellie?�h

Huhuhu, that amazingly satisfied smile is great.

Ah, but I must be firm here.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gIf I hear you scratched anyone else�fs ears, I will have to rip them off and feed them to the trolls.

So don�ft, okay?�h

Adultery is no good and Kira�fs weak to fuzzy things.

I trust Kira, so I�fll let her off with a light reminder this time.

Hmm? The scratching stopped?

Her hands froze for some reason.

Maybe she got a cramp?

That�fs too bad, I was havin- I mean she deserved more service.

It seems Kelly�fs ready for her show anyway.

***

We all gather in the training ground next to the tower.

It�fs just some flattened dirt with all the plants pulled out, though.

�gI came up with this when I saw Red�fs [Impact]. I had no idea that simple spell would be so effective like
that.�h

Kelly approaches and takes something out of a hard leather bag.

�gThis is the result of trying to weaponize that.�h

She holds up a green glass marble.

It looks like it has some liquid swirling inside.

�gRed, can you make some ice walls?�h

�g... why?�h

�gJust need a target for the demonstration.�h

�gIt won�ft explode, right?�h

�gNo, it won�ft. Even though Nano wanted it to."

Somehow Kira is not convinced.

But if this is something Kelly made I have high expectations.

�gKira, please! I want to see!�h

Oops, my excitement leaked out.

�gAlright, if Ellie says so.

----[Everfrost Wall]�h

A small mountain of ice appears!

It�fs about the size of a two-story house!

�gYeah that�fll work. Now Ellie, throw that thing so it shatters against the ice.�h

I take the marble and fling it with just my arm.

*Ting!*

It breaks open against the ice with a small sound.

*Crrrack*

The ice starts shaking and a giant crack spreads from where the marble hit it.

�gUh, Red, you might want to-�h

�g---- [Barrier]�h

* CRACKOOOM*

The iceberg exploded and shards of ice flew everywhere.

Kira�fs quick barrier couldn�ft hold out and was penetrated.

I stepped in and repelled the frozen shrapnel with [Telekinesis].

It was over in an instant but the previously flat ground now looks like a war zone.

�gYou said it wouldn�ft explode!�h

Kira grabbed onto Kelly�fs collar and started shaking her!

�gWhat do you call that! That was way too dangerous! Are you insane!?�h

Kira kept screaming complaints at Kelly with tears in her eyes.

Okay, let�fs launch Operation: There-There!

I hug her from behind and stroke her hair lightly.

�gCome here Kira, it�fs okay. Nothing�fs exploding anymore.�h

Kira turns around and buries her face in my chest.

She�fs letting out muffled whimpering noises.

{Technically what exploded was your ice, you know?}

�gNano and Kelly did it on purpose to tease Kira, so please be quiet!�h

I gently scold the two troublemakers.

Since I�fm the wife.

***

After Kira calmed down, Kelly explained the marble.

She called it an [Impact Pellet].

When it shatters, it somehow disrupts the mana around it.

As a result the ice shattered to bits violently.

We tried it against Kira�fs barrier and the barrier broke apart with a loud bang.

Thankfully there was no shrapnel that time.

But Kira still cried.

I hope it's not a new trauma...

***

�gNext up, Ellie, I got something for you that me and Nano fixed up.�h

She holds out two black gauntlets made out of a plastic-like material.

The wrist, fingers and palm have no plating at all, just a glove.

The shape itself fills me with nostalgia, but...

This can�ft be, right?

Yeah, they just look similar to-

{Ellie, these are your old grappling hook launchers.}

What!?

�gBut, they were broken in the cras- landing!�h

Nano said they were too damaged and couldn�ft be fixed!

{Kelly brought this amazing stuff with her called Orichalcum.}

{It�fs a good material to replace the melted insides, but they�fre a bit heavier as a result.}
I immediately take them and put them on.

They fit snugly as ever.

I�fve really missed these!

High-speed launching and reeling mechanism!

Multiple Tritanium-plated hooks!

Polymer-Reinforced Carbon Fiber rope!

Top of the line Neural Interface!

Truly a magnificent piece of equipment!

I raise my left hand and aim at the top of the tower.

The plate on the back of my hand slightly opens!

The hook flies out from above my knuckles with a *Fwump* !

The hook latches onto a ledge with a *Clack* !

And finally, I reel myself in with a *Vrrrr*!

�gWeeee hahahaha!�h

I laugh out of pure excitement!

This like a dream come true!

I could never use these inside ships or space stations since there was no room.

But here I�fm as free as a bird!

Alright, let's start training to use them immediately!

Chapter 44 - People tend to put a lot more effort into their hobbies than
their jobs - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrr*

Wheeee!

�gRed, I�fve been thinking and I don�ft really think you need more firepower.�h

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrr*

Hahahahaha!

�gWhat? How does that make any sense?�h

{So you want to incinerate the whole city next time a �gpoop tornado�h shows up?}

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrr*

Ohh, got some good speed on that swing!

�gUgeh! You didn�ft need to bring that up so soon...�h

{Then when? You know we�fre almost broke because of that!}

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrr*

Too bad there�fs only one tower!

{What I�fm trying to say is, you have a glaring weakness.}

{If you lose your staff you�fre defenseless.}

�gThat�fs right, isn�ft it? I got conceited and didn�ft consider that. I apologize.�h

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrr*

Wonder if I can make a web out of these?

�gEllie, would you stop flying all over the place? You�fre distracting us!�h

Oh no, I got carried away!

�gOkay, sorry Kira�c�h

Let�fs stop pla- training and obediently sit and listen.

{Since you�fre the only mage here, do you have any ideas on how to get around it?}

�gCan you make a gauntlet-type focusing tool out of [Black Resin]?�h

What�fs a [Black Resin]?

�gIf it�fs the same material as my staff then it should be good as a back-up.�h

Oh right, it�fs Kira�fs name for Polymer Reinforced Carbon Fibers.

�gGood idea Red, I�fll make sure Nano gets it right so you can expect something great!�h

{Okay, I�fll do my best!}

�gNano, please don�ft do your best. That usually makes things explode�c�h

Kira, what frightful insight!

Nothing less from a veteran adventurer!

�gAlso, Kelly, I�fve been wondering but, what is that?�h

Kira points to a suspicious corner of the training grounds we�fre in.

It�fs suspicious because there�fs a suspicious object hidden by a suspicious drape.

The shape is obscured, but the size is clearly suspicious.

�gC-Could it be?�h

I stammer slightly when the realization hits me!

�gThat�fs right little Ellie, today is the day I fulfil my promise to you.�h

With a proud smile Kelly walks over to the drape and pulls it off.

Underneath is a human-shaped pile of metal.

It�fs standing with bent knees and the bulky upper body is leaning forward slightly.

The strange metal plates are no longer off-white, but a dull rust-like color.

�gI�fd like to introduce you girls to Scrappy the Sixth!�h

*Fwu-Fwump*

I got so excited that my grappling hooks shot out into the ground.

How embarrassing, I need to adjust the neural interface later.

�gBy the way, Red, can you charge this for me? Just don�ft overdo it okay?�h

Kelly hands Kira a crystal of some kind.

It looks like dining plate, except it has a small hole in the middle.

The crystal is colorless and slightly transparent, like foggy glass.

�gOh a Magic Stone! I haven�ft seen one of these in a while! Okay give me a minute.�h

Kira holds the Magic Stone with both hands and it starts glowing slightly.

�gIs that fuel for Scrappy?�h

�gThat�fs right Ellie, golems can�ft function without a mana source.

I�fve been making do with my own so far, but this Scrappy is different.�h

I see, I see, Scrappy needs mana batteries.

But it�fs a crystal right?

Why is it called a Magic Stone?

�gI�fm done, here you go Kelly.�h

Kira hands Kelly back the now-charged Magic Stone.

It�fs glowing with a soft white light.

The radiance is similar to Kira's sleeping face.

�gThanks Red, alright, better brace yourself Ellie!�h

Kelly goes around to stand behind Scrappy.

Wait, that�fs only half-a-Scrappy, right?

I didn�ft notice since we were looking at the front but...

The rear half of the suit is completely missing!

What sort of scam is this?

Kelly, however, calmly places the Magic Stone inside.

It fits perfectly into a special slot on the chest plate.

She then climbs face-first into the armor.

But it�fs half a Scrappy, right?

"---- [Golem Link]"

*CLANK CLANK* *Tok tok tok tok tok* *Clackaclacka*

The numerous metal plates start shifting and moving around!

They spread out like window shutters!

Kelly�fs previously exposed back is now wrapped fully in rust-colored metal!

All the odd shaped pieces fit together like a puzzle!

The surface of the armor became smooth like full plate!

The area around the chest, upper back, forearms and calves are especially thick and bulge outwards!

*Tok tok tok*

With a few final noises, the transforming Power Armor of my dreams has returned!

What�fs this?

Something hot is running down my cheeks.

Ah I see, I was moved to tears.

�gNow then! Let the show begin!�h

***

It took me three hours to calm down after Kelly�fs magnificent performance.

But whenever I think about it I get excited again!

Strength enough to smash boulders to bits!

Toughness that repels my full-powered stone throw without a scratch!

Maces that unfold from inside the arms!

With a flash of fire and smoke it leaped over the three-meter wall with ease.

In other words-

�gJET BOOTS ARE THE BEEEEEEST!�h

�gEllie!? What�fs wrong!�h

Oh no, I got too worked up.

I forgot Kira was trying to sleep next to me and squealed in joy.

That�fs right, it�fs night now.

I�fm in bed but I cannot sleep.

�gI�fm sorry Kira...�h

�gToo excited to sleep?�h

�g... yes �c�h

�gAwww, how adorable ~?! Come here you ~?! Let your wifey take care of that ~?!�h
�c

...

* Scritch Scritch *

* Prrrrrrr *

As expected, Kira�fs soothing technique is way beyond my own.

More training is necessary!

Quick word on release schedule - there isn't one. For the moment I'm putting them up when I'm satisfied with em.
I'll think about it later if it slows down too much.
Chapter 45 - Be mindful of others when being affectionate in public -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gYou all set Ellie?�h

Kira calls out from outside.

�gJust a minute!�h

I reply through the open window.

I have to pack a few more things.

We�fre going on a trip so preparations are important.

We�fll be traveling by riding Nano�fs special cart.

It�fs a salvaged Planet Rover we had lying around.

Re-entry was harsh on a lot of the equipment.

The engine was ruined, but the suspension and wheels were okay.

So Nano turned it into a cart.

Kelly�fs golem will be pulling it.

Still, it�fs important to travel light.

Let me double check my checklist.

Since preparations are important.

------------------------------------------------------------
? Grappling Hooks
? Sleeping Bag
? Adventurer�fs Guild Card
? Body Armor
? Face Mask
? Tritanium Sword
? 20 Impact Pellets
? 100 Primary Throwing Knives
? 50 Secondary Throwing Knives
? 40 Backup Throwing Knives
? 20 Emergency Throwing Knives
? 10 Last Resort Throwing Knives
? 4 Extra Large Knives that look like they�fd be fun to throw
? 3 Pocket Grenades - High-Explosive
? 3 Pocket Grenades - Incendiary
? 2 Pocket Grenades - Gas (Non-Lethal)
? 2 Pocket Grenades - Gas (Lethal)
? 2 Pocket Grenades - EMP
? 2 Spare Radio Earpieces
? 3 Water Canteens
? 4 Emergency Medical Kits
? 14 Emergency Field Rations
? 5 Cans of bug repellant
? 5 Sets of Picorio�fs deluxe line of hygiene and beauty products
? 3 Sets of casual day clothes
? 2 Sets of serious day clothes
? 2 Sets of pajamas
? 2 Sets of travel clothes
? 4 Pairs of boots
? 4 Pairs of socks
? 6 Sets of clean underwear
? 1 Set of Kira�fs underwear
------------------------------------------------------------

Looks good, should be enough.

�gKira, I�fm on my way!�h

We�fre each responsible for our own luggage.

I pack everything up in two duffel bags and head down.

We�fre heading out to get the missing [Starshards].

That�fs way too fancy a name for that old fart�fs boxes.

But it�fs fun to say, so I�fll let it slide.

There�fs seven of them.

Four are scattered around in all directions.

The other three are in one place.

That's clearly suspicious.

We know where they are since those containers have beacons.

Leave it to that greedy old fart to have beacons.

'This is mine, don't touch' is the message they send out.

'Please take it from me' is what I hear.

Since the beacons transmit over a long range, Nano�fs probes are tracking them.

The drones already picked up the ones around the city and in the forest.

But these last seven are really far away.

Probably some adventurers or merchants got to them first.

And now they're goods in circulation.

Nano says we�fll need over a month to get all of them.

I�fve never left home for so long before, so I�fm a bit nervous.

Hmm?

�gNano said we�fd need a month to get the boxes back, right?�h

{It�fs a rough guess, and most of that is just traveling, but yes.}

�gBut what about power?�h

If Kira�fs not here, power will only last about a week at most.

Mostly because the battery is a bit broken.

It loses power on its own.

If power runs out, the drones won�ft be able to re-charge.

And our home will be left defenseless.

{What about it?}

Nano isn�ft worried at all.

As expected of Nano!

�gHow will Nano charge the battery when Kira�fs not here?�h

Nano is pretty smart you know.

I�fm sure there�fs some brilliant idea to get around this!

{... Whoops.}

...

{Ah, ahem, that is... There uh, should be some, uh, solar panels. Somewhere�c}

�gNano.�h

I reprimand him slightly with a stern voice.

Since I'm the wife.

{I�fm sorry. I got careless. I�fll take care of it so please don�ft be mad.}

�gThen it�fs okay.�h

Why is it only Nano apologizes properly around here?

***

We enter the guild building like usual.

We were busy with the wedding preparations before, so we haven�ft been here recently.

Hasn�ft changed a bit, though.

Even the receptionist girl is the same.

�gGood day miss Ellie, miss Quasse.�h

She greets Kira when we walk up to the counter.

�gMy, it�fs Mrs Quasse these days, you know?�h

�gMy apologies Mrs Quasse. Also congratulations.�h

�gFufufu, thank you.�h

�gBut then how do I call the�c other Mrs Quasse?�h

Ah, she�fs troubled.

Having the same name can be inconvenient for other people.

I did not consider this.

�gJust Ellie is fine.�h

Let�fs help her out a bit.

She�fs always kind and cheerful when she sees us.

So this much is nothing.

�gThank you, Ellie! May I trouble you to call me Carla?�h

�gIf Carla wants, then I don�ft mind.�h

Hmm? She seems awfully happy about that.

Ah, people must not call her by name much.

I still didn�ft know her name until just now.

It's lonely when nobody calls out to you, after all.

�gSo how can the adventurer�fs guild help you today?�h

�gI�fd like to update the name on Ellie�fs card.�h

I hand over the card and let her collect some blood.

We�fre here to put Kira�fs family name next to mine.

This much is natural.

But�c somehow I feel nervous and jumpy.

A few minutes later the receptionist comes back.

�gHere you go Ellie.�h

�gThank you Carla.�h

I take back my card with anticipation.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Ellie mil Quasse
Titles: Silent Shadow, Bonesetter
Team: Black Flame
Position: Scout
Rank: B
Status: Active
--------------------------------------------------------------

...

Why is it that these letters make me so incredibly happy?

Ah I see.

Somehow, the confusion around that dragon got to me.

I just hadn�ft fully accepted it.

But it�fs finally hit me like a ton of bricks.

I�fm married.

I�fm a wife.

I have a wife.

Someone warm who�fll be there for me always.

Now the whole world will know I�fm married to Kira!

Uuuuuuu, what�fs with this immense giddiness in my chest.

My heart's pounding so wildly it feels like it might explode!

No good, I need to let these feelings out!

�g... K-K-Kiraa�c�h
�gWhat is it Ellie? Your face is awfully flu- Eeek!�h

I jump at Kira but she ducks out of the way with a cute scream.

She�fs gotten pretty good at dodging me lately.

I land with a roll and assume a running start position.

�gC-c-calm down Ellie! We�fre in the guild, remember! Think of the t-t-t-time and place!�h

Kira waves her hands around with a flustered face.

Huhuhuhu, this kind of Kira is cute too.

Alright, I�fve decided.

�gHere and now works!�h

�gNOOOOOO!�h

Ah, Kira ran out of the guild.

She must want to play tag.

But my prey will not escape me so easily!

Chapter 46 - Curiosity did not, in fact, kill the cat. Carelessness did. -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gKelly, stop the carriage.�h

�gYou heard her, Cloppy, stop the carriage.�h

The horse-like golem stops.

Our carriage does too.

There�fs nothing around here though.

It�fs just a wide grassland, nothing can ambush us around here.

�gWhat�fs up, Red?�h

�gI have a bad feeling about this.�h

�gWell to be honest, I�fve been having a bad feeling since we left Runetap 5 days ago.

This carriage is comfortable and all, but it stands out too much. It�fs a wonder we haven�ft been ambushed
yet.�h

Kelly�fs right.

Even I think it�fs highly unusual.

It�fs the frame of a Planet Rover after all.

Though the name is fancy it�fs just an over-sized dune buggy.

The six wheels stick out awkwardly from the sides, too.

But, is that really the biggest eyesore?

�gI think Kelly�fs golem stands out way more.�h

I mean, it�fs a 3 meter tall walking statue you know!

It�fs almost bigger than the carriage!

�gThat�fs not what I mean you two! It�fs too quiet.�h

�g... now that you mention it yeah, but how does that matter?�h

�gWe kept hearing the bird and animal cries until a little while ago, but now they�fre gone. They might have been
scared off by some dangerous monsters.�h

�gHmm? I don�ft usually travel a lot so I never thought about it before. Thanks for the tip, Red.�h
{The box is about a kilometer from here, towards that forest on our left.}

�gAlright. Ellie, you go check it out. Kelly, suit up and be on stand by.�h

�gGot it.�h

�gOkay. Nano, show me.�h

I jump out of the carriage and start running.

I really dislike leaving Kira behind, but Kelly and Scrappy are there.

It should be fine.

Also, Kira�fs gotten a lot better at dealing with rough spots.

Nano gave her a gauntlet-type tool before we left.

It�fs black and shiny and pointy and really cool.

Nano told Kira to focus on using that for small fry.

Staff is reserved for big targets.

It makes sense you know?

You shouldn�ft use a missile to hunt a frog.

As a result, Kira�fs a lot better at handling close quarters now.

Her dodging skills are also steadily improving somehow.

Even though I never see her training them.

As expected, Kira�fs just amazing.

I still feel uneasy for leaving her behind, though.

I look back over my shoulder, but the carriage is already out of sight.

Maybe Nano can help out here?

�gNano, can you keep an eye on Kira and Kelly?�h

{I�fm afraid I can�ft do that, Ellie.}

... that reply was a bit out of character.

Wait, that's not important right now!

�gBut you could see at home, so why not now?�h

{I see, I never explained properly. Let�fs clear this up quickly.}

{Alright, everyone listen up this is important.}

{Let�fs make this clear - I can hear you, but I cannot see you.}

{Ellie and the drones are my eyes. If none of them are around, I can�ft see what�fs going on.}

{I�fm not actually omnipotent so make sure you report any strange happenings.}

{�gHooh, and I thought for sure you were peeping on me in the bath.�h}

{Well Kelly, that did happen. But only because Ellie was the one doing the peeping.}

Nano!

Don�ft sell me out like this!

{�g�hELLIE!?�h�h}

�gI was just curious how Kelly�fs chest compared to Kira�fs!

I�fll apologize, so forgive me, okay?�h

For the record, Kira is still undefeated.

By a wide margin, actually.

Between me and Kelly it�fs debatable.

But that�fs fine with me.

Big breasts impede movement.

Also Kira said mine were cute and perfectly fit in her palms.

Therefore, I�fm satisfied with my current size.

***

Oh!

I'm here.

Where's here?

Good question!

Unfortunately I have no idea.

Nano says the box is under me, though!

I�fm on top of a rocky-ish hill.

I say rocky-ish because the ground is weird.

I reach my hand up and activate the earpiece.

�gKira, I found the box but it�fs underground.

Nano says it�fs buried deep so I need your help.�h

{�gThere are no monsters around?�h}

�gNone that I can see.�h

{�gOkay, Nano will guide me and Kelly to where you are. Stay put and keep an eye out.�h}

�gRoger, out.�h

{�gLike I said who�fs this Roger bloke and why is he always out?�h}

{�gNo idea, she says that sometimes.�h}

{�gAnd you aren�ft curious?�h}

{�gIt�fs your loss if you mind it.�h}

{�gYou and that bloody mantra again. Honestly Red I don�ft get what you see in that girl at all.�h}

{�gShe�fs caring and passionate, also honest to a fault.�h}

{�gThat�fs way beyond simple honesty! She�fs way too blunt about everything!

This is way too abnormal! The face and eye thing is especially weird! And then those ears and tail popped out for no
reason!�h}

{�gThey�fre pretty cute though, don�ft you think?�h}

{�gThat�fs not the point! She�fs dangerous! What�fs with that casual attitude while she maims and stabs
people? It�fs way too creepy!�h}

�gKelly, I can still hear you, you know?�h

{�gHmm, what�fs that? Red, did you happen to hear a creepy peeper talk just now?�h}

{�gMy, I sure hope not. It�fs exceedingly rude to interrupt a private conversation.�h}

Grrrr!

Kelly�fs doing this on purpose!

But I can�ft really object to this treatment.

You�fll pay for this, Kelly!

I�fll forgive Kira though.

She defended me even though it was a punishment.

Since Kira�fs the wife.
Chapter 47 - Weapons exist for a singular purpose - to be used - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gSo Ellie, do you know why you failed to notice the Island Turtle?�h

�gI wasn�ft aware that such a thing existed. My preparations were lacking.�h

*STOMP*

�gWrong. You noticed the terrain was suspicious yet you did not investigate. Otherwise you would notice you
were walking on a monster shell and not regular dirt.�h

That rocky-ish hill was actually a 10 meter tall tortoise.

{�gTo be fair Red, those things are pretty rare. Some people think they�fre good omens, but a lot more people
think they�fre delicious.�h}

*STOMP*

What�fs this?

�gThey�fre delicious!?�h

{�gAye, folks say they�fre so tasty you won�ft forget it for the rest of your life.�h}

*Drool*

�gEllie, wipe that drool! We�fre not *Slurp* done here!�h

�gKira�fs no different though...�h

�gThis review is about your failure as a scout, Ellie. Do not try to *Slurp* weasel out of it!

It�fs true.

Failing to notice something like that means I�fm still inexperienced.

*STOMP*

So this lecture is well deserved.

�gI understand.

A mistake like this is inexcusable as a scout.

I will make sure I check the ground more carefully from now on.

I�fm properly reflecting on my blunder, okay?

*STOMP*
Now can I get out of this position?

The Island Turtle�fs walking is really hurting my ankles!�h

Why did Kira insist we do this on top of its shell anyway?

And where did she learn of the forbidden secret of seiza?

*STOMP*

Both of those are probably Nano�fs ideas.

{�gUh girls, if you�fre quite done there I�fd like to move on with our mission.�h}

Kelly�fs sure taking it easy back on the cart.

She�fs �gfollowing�h the tortoise.

*STOMP*

The thing has barely moved a hundred meters since 5 minutes ago!

�gOkay, that�fs enough for now. We�fre still technically in the field, so I�fll let you off here. But these sort of
mistakes can�ft happen again. Are we clear!�h

�gYes!�h

I quickly stand up.

My ankles are instantly relieved.

***

We�fre back in the carriage, leisurely keeping pace with the tortoise.

�gThen the question is how did the box get inside the Island Turtle. Any ideas Kelly?�h

�gIt obviously ate it, right? Those things will eat anything that�fs sticking out of the ground. Trees, rocks, castles,
doesn�ft matter.�h

{Well, we have to get it out and confirm the contents.}

{I know where the boxes are but not what�fs inside them.}

{It would be good if the container and its contents were digested.}

{But those things are really tough, so that�fs unlikely.}

�gWell then there�fs only one option. We just have to wait until it gets pooped out.�h

What�fs with that logic?

�gKelly! That�fs disgusting!�h

See, Kira agrees!

�gPart of life though. Problem is these things take weeks to, uh, process things.�h

{It should have been eaten just recently.}

{We�fve already put off gathering these for too long so waiting for, uh, that, isn't an option.}

Nano said that the box had been sitting still for weeks.

Probably abandoned as junk.

But it started moving again three days ago.

That�fs probably when it got eaten.

�gAh, if it�fs recent, I think we might be able to make it puke it out, but it won�ft be easy. They got stomachs of
steel after all.�h

Stomachs of steel?

I hope that�fs a metaphor.

�gKelly!�h

�gDon�ft complain Red. That box is coming out of that thing one way or the other. Just pick one hole and prepare
yourself.�h

�gCan�ft we just kill it and cut it open?�h

I�fve been wondering that for a while, so I asked.

It doesn�ft seem to be particularly threatening.

�gBad idea. Island Turtles are under the protection of the crown. Poaching them is a sure way to a death sentence
for you and everyone you know.�h

Damn those royalty guys.

Looks like we can�ft just gut it and cook it.

Me and Kira will be fine even if the world crumbles.

Literally.

We have a functioning escape pod in storage, it can fit both of us if we snuggle.

But Kelly, Esteemed Father and the others in Runetap will be in trouble.

{Are they�fre trying to save an endangered species?}

�gHaha, yeah you could say that. Saving it for themselves at least. They just don�ft want anyone else but royalty
eating these.�h
How envi- I mean selfish!

{How would they even know, though?}

�gAll of them are being tracked by magic so if one dies they�fll investigate immediately. And there�fs no way to
hide that mountain of evidence in time no matter what you do.�h

So that�fs how it is.

Hmm, yeah, let�fs try with that.

�gKira. I have an idea. It�fs dangerous but it should work.�h

***

{Okay Ellie, the others are in position. Ready when you are.}

Nano reports Kelly and Kira have completed their preparations.

�gGot it.�h

I�fm riding the tortoise�fs head, waiting for it to open its mouth.

It doesn�ft even seem to notice me.

I reach into my utility belt and take out one of the Pocket Grenades.

{You�fre sure you want to do this, Ellie?}

I look at the small cylinder.

It�fs so small that making a fist around it makes it disappear.

The top half is gray, the lower half is dark green.

It has some heft so throwing it is easy.

But resolving to throw it, is not.

Just thinking about how such a small thing can be so devastating�c

Truly a weapon worthy of that old fart.

�gIt�fll be fine if I use the longest fuse and run away at top speed.�h

This much is necessary.

This weapon needs absolute care when handling.

The tortoise is very slowly approaching a tree.

I grab the grenade, holding both ends in either hand.

I firmly twist them in opposite directions.

The two halves move and a faint click is heard from the middle.

A small light on the gray end activates, glowing red.

I twist the ends in the other direction and the light turns green.

There, it�fs armed, there�fs no going back from this point.

The tortoise approaches the tree slowly.

It�fs a bit nerve-wracking, but patience is important here.

It opens its mouth, a yawning abyss that can swallow houses whole.

I twist the grenade ends one last time, doing a full rotation.

*Beep*

The 10 second countdown has started.

I immediately toss it into the tortoise�fs mouth and run.

I don�ft have time to think, I just run.

> Narrator PoV <

Ellie�fs aim was a spot 150 meters away from the blast. That was the minimum safe distance when using this
weapon in outside areas. However, it�fs a different meaning from the recommended safe distance of 1 kilometer,
where the others were currently waiting.

Ellie passed her goal on time, but she kept running. A few moments later, the metal cylinder released its contents.
The brown-green gas spread out to envelop the tortoise�fs head and invade its lungs in an instant.

The payload in question was listed as Gas (Non-Lethal). This particular product was shown to be effective on 95%
of races across the galaxy. One of its effects, an overwhelming sense of nausea, was Ellie�fs aim.

The main use was listed as �gCrowd Dispersal�h in the catalog. However, words like that often hide an ugly
truth.

In reality, it�fs one of the most vile chemical compounds ever created. The only reason it was commercially
available was that it never directly caused casualties.

The victims will survive the gas, but its effects are said to be worse than death. It assaults the nose, skins, eyes,
mouth, even the hair and nails. Psychological and physical trauma are common side-effects.

Some of the victims even claim the damage reaches down to their very DNA. Since the leftover residue and after-
effects can take months to clear up, it�fs not easy to dismiss such things as a simple exaggerations.

Truly something closer to a terror weapon than a law-enforcement tool was just unleashed upon the world. On that
day, it�fs said every living creature faced in the same direction with a vague sense of pity and disgust.

For the true identity of Ellie�fs payload was the dreaded [Feolotian Anti-Respiration Toxin]. In short - a
F.A.R.T. grenade.
Chapter 48 - Titles that reuse the same lame joke are a sign the author is
lazy - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

The three of us are preparing to camp out for the night.

{At this rate we�fll reach the second box in eight more days.}

�gI hope it�fs something worthwhile this time.�h

Kelly lets out a complaint.

{Need I remind you that it�fs what could be inside that�fs the problem?}

�gNo, I get that, I do. Maybe not as well as you, but I do understand. *GLUG GLUG*

It�fs just that you said these things were filled with valuable and dangerous items, so I got a bit excited.�h

Kelly drinks from her flask while complaining.

�gBut there�fs nothing valuable or dangerous about a box of carrots! What sort of lunatic needs that many bloody
carrots!?�h

Ah I see, Kelly doesn�ft know.

Carrots are common here.

But where we came from, that�fs not the case.

They�fre close to becoming extinct, actually.

So those carrots were really expensive.

I keep that to myself though.

It will probably make Kelly even angrier.

We know the box�fs contents because my plan worked.

The F.A.R.T. succeeded in making the tortoise vomit.

But part of the container was somehow digested.

The carrots inside were ruined.

As expected from the stomach of steel.

So, while we did succeed, there was no gain.

However, I have a far more important complaint.

�gKira�c I�fm lonely�c�h

I whisper to myself.

I messed up, I didn�ft consider the lack of wind.

So when I went to check on the box afterwards, the gas hadn�ft completely cleared up.

As a result I got exposed to the F.A.R.T.

And now I stink.

Nano blocked my sense of smell so I�fm fine.

But Kira and Kelly start throwing up if I get too close.

I have to be some 15 meters away and downwind from them at all times.

So I haven�ft hugged Kira for two whole days.

Hence the main issue.

I�fm lonely!

I want to be comforted!

But if I hug Kira then she will suffer!

I don�ft want to make Kira suffer!

So, as the wife, I must protect Kira.

From myself!

�gGaaaaah!�h

I let out a shout in frustration!

But it�fs hopeless.

There�fs no cure for F.A.R.T.

�c

Wait.

That�fs only true if you rely on science.

But this is a world of magic!

***

*Scritch Scritch*
*Prrrrrrrrr*

�gAwwwww poor Ellie ~?. I was really lonely without you, too ~?!�h

Finally Kira�fs warm and fluffy embrace.

*Scritch Scritch*

Ah, this is bliss!

�gNyaaa�c Nyaaa�c Nyaaa�c�h

I feel so good that my voice leaks out with weird noises.

�gStill, to get rid of that unfathomable stench in just one night, that guy�fs ointments are really good huh?�h

Kelly comments from the driver's seat.

That�fs right, I had to use all the anti-odor ointment I got from mister Picorio.

Me and Kira take baths all the time so bad smells aren�ft a problem.

I had forgotten all about that.

*Scritch Scritch*

�gNyaaa�c Nyaaa�c�h

But I�fm glad I bought five full product packages from him.

I need to thank mister Picorio properly when we get back.

I spent all of last night applying it to my skin, armor, weapons and hair.

Since I was busy the entire night, I didn�ft get any sleep.

So now I�fm resting on Kira�fs lap in the back of the carriage.

�gMfufufu, Ellie�fs ears really are the greatest ~?!�h

*Scritch Scritch*

�gKira�fs hands feel way too good. It�fs unfaaair...�h

�gCut that out you two, your flirting is gonna make me sick.�h

�gOh my, are you perhaps jealous!?�h

�gRed, if you ever make that sort of comment again, I�fm terminating our contract.�h

Wah!

Kelly�fs voice turned to ice!

�gAre we clear?�h

�gWow Kelly. I just wanted to tease you a bit�c�h

�gAre. We. Clear?!�h

�gKira. Apologize.�h

I sternly scold Kira as well.

�gGeh! Okay Ellie okay! I�fm really sorry Kelly! I�fll behave myself in the future!�h

�gThanks, that�fs all I wanted to hear.�h

Good, Kelly�fs not angry anymore.

{You know, I�fve been thinking this for a while but Ellie�fs doing a great job as a wife.}

Eh!?

A compliment from Nano?

Did he break again?

�gI agree with Nano. Ellie, you�fre amazing at supporting Red and keeping her in line. You�fre undoubtedly a
first class wife.�h

�gEhehehehehe.�h

I let out a little embarrassed laugh. It�fs rare to get complicated so directly.

�gHey! Don�ft talk about me like I�fm some burden! I do wife-like things too, you know!?�h

Kira?

�gOh yeah, like what?�h

�gWell! I�c um, that is�c�h

Ah Kira�fs stumbling.

I must support her.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gKira is kind and understanding. She fills me with love and smiles every day.�h

It�fs true, that�fs all I ever wanted from Kira.

�gHauuu, Ellie sure knows how to say some nice things ~?!�h

*Scritch Scritch*

�gNyaaa�c�h
�gHey, I said cut it out you two!�h
Chapter 49 - People who make good first impressions rarely live up to
them - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

We pull our cart up to the line.

There�fs a city here, but it�fs a lot smaller than Runetap.

Judging from the outside, maybe about half the size?

It's surrounded by walls and I can see a stone castle overlooking the city.

Also it�fs right in the middle of a forest.

Don�ft monsters come out of the forest?

Well, it�fs not my problem though.

Nano says the second box is in this city.

So we�fre queueing at the gate.

The other people in line are giving us difficult looks.

The golem and cart combo stands out as expected.

Kelly says to just sit put and not cause trouble.

It�fs not like we cause trouble on purpose you know.

A chance to sleep in a real bed after two weeks has showed up!

So we�fre going to stay the night.

Ah, it�fs almost our turn.

Kelly insisted on doing the talking, said she used to live here.

Something about dealing with the guards.

I wonder why that would be a problem, though.

We get along great with the guards in Runetap you know.

Despite how they look, they�fre real pros.

Still, Kelly has travelled a lot more.

So I shall trust in that experience.

�gNext!�h
The guard yells at us while the wagon in front pulls away.

Kelly moves our carriage up to the guard.

�gOh for�c what in the tits is THAT thing?�h

Wow, that was rude.

It was even out loud!

I guess this is what Kelly meant.

If it were me or Kira, that guard would have broken an arm by now.

�gAh come on, mate. Don�ft rub it in. You think I like driving this bloody thing around?�h

Kelly is acting a bit different than usual.

�gYeah, my bad. I�fm guessing by that golem you�fre from Hardvark?�h

�gGood guess, but no, we�fre from�c haaaah�c from Runetap.�h

�gShoulda fuckin�f known. Nothing but weirdos and crazies in that place.�h

Don�ft tell me all guards are supposed to be this rude?

Even Old Boisterous Uncle wasn�ft this bad!

Actually my training with him has shown good results.

Even miss Secretary was surprised, she even baked me cookies as thanks.

�gHey mate, keep it down would ya? The girls with me get easily offended.�h

�gYeah, so?�h

�gSo when they get rowdy, raise a fuss and then your guys show up and we do the whole song-and-dance the only
possible outcome is me not being drunk.�h

That�fs your biggest problem?

No, that might actually be a good thing.

If Kelly gets drunk, the people here won�ft survive it.

They�fre not werewolves you know?

�gWhatever, woman! Just tell me why you�fre here and hand over your identification.�h

�gWe�fre just passing through, we�fll be leaving in the morning. Here�fs my mercenary license.�h

Kelly hands over a stone slate.

It�fs slightly bigger than the cards and it�fs dark gray.

Mercenary license?

I guess it�fs like an Adventurer�fs Card?

The guard takes it and inspect it.

�gLet�fs see... Oh a Darkhand! We got a few of your kin somewhere in here.�h

�gOf course you do. We�fre all over the bloody place.�h

Kelly responds with a dejected face and a long sigh.

I hope her whole family isn�ft full of rampaging drunks.

That�fs a scary thought, but it�fs possible.

�gGood enough.�h

The guard hands Kelly her slate back.

His eyes look at Kira.

This is bad.

This guy has a plan, but I shouldn't interfere.

It'll cause trouble for everyone behind us and Kira will scold me.

For now, let's activate countermeasures immediately.

Close my eyes and focus...

�gNext! You there with the giant tits.�h

Ooooooooohm.

�gYeah you, don�ft look at me with that stupid face.�h

Ooooooooohm.

�gAdventurer? *Phtoo * What a joke. Too afraid to get a real job?�h

Ooooooooohm!

�gNot like you could do any job but being a who-�h

*Slam*

�gGYAAAAAA!�h

Ooooooooo�c Hm?
Okay, all done.

No no no, that wasn�ft me, okay?

It was a *Slam* so it wasn't me, okay?

It wasn't Kira or Kelly either.

I open my eyes back up.

There�fs an armored guy there, another guard.

He looks like a pretty boy - blonde hair, blue eyes, the works.

The face is okay, it�fs a lot better than average.

You can see some grace and elegance in it.

The guard from earlier is on the ground, clutching his head.

�gThe FUCK are you doing, moron? You think you can just abuse tourists?�h

The pretty boy yelled at the guard on the ground.

Any semblance of grace and elegance disappeared like mist.

�gYou think you got the right to insult people who are better off than you? Little SHIT!�h

*Thud*

�gUrgh!�h

The guy on the ground got kicked and made a noise.

�gYou two! Drag this sorry sack of piss back to the barracks, I�fll deal with him later.�h

�g�gSir!�h�h

Two of the nearby guards came up.

They carried off the writhing guard like a sack of potatoes.

�gRight, terribly sorry about that shameful display. I�fm Guard Captain Ritter. I will take full responsibility for
my subordinate�fs rude behavior.�h

He turns to us and says some nice things, but unfortunately-

How�fs that, did you witness my gallant defense of your honor? Surely you�fve fallen for me right? I have to
thank my squadmates for playing along later.

-he�fs just saying them.

The whole thing was a sham.

Unfortunately for him, I'm always using [Telepathy].

I've gotten better at it ever since Kira got kidnapped.

The majority of thoughts just wash over me like white noise.

Since it's just people thinking about themselves.

But when people's thoughts turn rude towards us, I pick them out.

That guard from earlier was the same.

I knew he didn't really mean those things.

And that his accomplice would show up and 'stop' him.

That's why I was able to stay calm for so long.

Otherwise he'd be unconscious before he opened his mouth.

But in the end, he still said them.

He won�ft be forgiven until either his mouth or his bones apologize.

Regardless the reason, he still insulted Kira out loud.

This is something I can't overlook.

Since I'm the wife.

�gAh, thanks for that mate! You really saved me there. I almost put a fist through his face!�h

Kelly seems to be talking to him in an awfully cheery manner.

Even though she was completely ignored by him.

The hell do you want shorty!? Go away! Me and those giant tits have a date to go on!

This Playboy clearly doesn�ft understand a maiden�fs heart.

Well, Kira technically isn�ft a maiden, but that�fs besides the point.

He�fs just doing vague, shady things to pick up women.

Therefore, he�fs now Playboy.

�gI�fll buy you a pint later, so come on and get this check over with, okay? The lads in line are getting upset!�h

Kelly, keeps being awfully friendly, was she deceived?

No, on closer inspection her face is smiling, but her eyes aren't.

I see, I see, Kelly wasn�ft deceived at all.

She immediately realized this guy's fishy.

What frightening insight!

No, perhaps this is just the weapon known as experience?

�gAh, of course. Will the two lovely ladies show me their identification?�h

This guy is still going at it, he�fs uselessly persistent huh?

Me and Kira hold out our Adventurer Cards.

Playboy takes them from us and the normally white cards turn blood-red.

I still think that feature is a bit creepy.

Rank B huh? A scout and a�c [Red Sage]? Uwah, if she�fs anything like that [Black Sage] in town then she�fs
probably bad in the head. I dodged a bullet on that one.

Putting his incredibly rude thoughts aside, [Black Sage]?

I�fll tell Kira about it later.

�gYes, thank you. You�fre free to go.�h

Playboy hands us our cards back and signals to his colleagues with a wave.

Kelly is already pulling the carriage through the gate.

Playboy shouts at us as we�fre entering the city.

�gPlease enjoy your stay in Hell.�h

Chapter 50 - You can't be robbed of something that doesn't belong to
you - Binary Soul | Royal Road
AN: I've edited the previous chapter a bit after reading the replies.

> Ellie PoV <

So this is the city called Hell, huh?

I�fve always been curious about this place.

A lot of people have told me to visit before.

Even though only shady people recommended it, it�fs pretty nice!

The streets are clean and the buildings are charming.

The people are a lot more polite than those guards.

Well, other than the ones who keep giving us weird looks.

They're not being overly rude so I ignore them.

I wonder why they stare, though?

We already left our eyesore of a carriage and golem at the inn.

So the eyesores are gone.

Kelly went off somewhere to have a drink somewhere.

It�fs finally some time alone with Kira.

I don�ft really mind if Kelly is there, but Kelly does.

Therefore, this is a rare chance to really enjoy ourselves.

�gHere Ellie. Aaahn ~?!�h

Kira holds out a piece of boar meat on her fork.

�gAaahn�c *Nom*�h

Delicious!

I didn�ft know such a method existed!

Every bite seems to energize my whole body!

My palms instinctively stroke my cheeks!

It�fs filling for both my tummy and my soul!

�gFufufufu, Ellie is too cute in that dress ~?!�h

I�fm wearing a loose-fitting navy blue one-piece dress we bought in town.

It�fs sleeveless and the skirt is at knee-length.

The single red flower embroidered on the left thigh is pretty.

Kira�fs also wearing a dress - a bright red evening gown.

It�fs low-cut, form-fitting and goes down to her ankles.

It�fs really stylish, it looks good on her.

So good, I feel an urge to rip it off right now.

But that would be a waste.

Kira is even more beautiful with the dress still on.

It�fs a mystery!

�gKira...�h

"Now? But... Ohhhh, I can't turn you down when you stare at me like that ~?!"

I lean over and give her a light kiss, Kira eagerly returns it.

We must be more discrete in public, so it only lasted 10 seconds.

�gNow it�fs twice as delicious.�h

I reflexively lick my lips.

�gOh my ~?!�h

Kira�fs cheeks redden, they almost match her dress.

This sort of Kira is a feast for the eyes as well.

However, I would like the noisy people to go away.

"Uwaah, where in Hell did those two come from?"

�gIdiot, they�fre obviously out of town.�h

H-H-how bold!

�gThe face is the same though, are they twins?�h

Explode! I don't know why, but from the bottom of my heart, go explode!

�gMommy Mommy I want to be pretty like that!�h

They won�ft shut up and they're being awfully loud.

They're disturbing the other people at the restaurant.

That is to say, us!

I still don't get why they're so focused on us.

Normally I don't, mind but they're being exceptionally rude.

If I start educating them now, it will ruin our date!

We even put in extra effort so this wouldn't happen.

We put on normal town clothes and visited a normal restaurant.

The waiter took our order and brought out food normally.

And we�fre eating it normally.

This is how romantic couples normally eat you know?

Both Nano and Kira said so, therefore it must be true.

So why did it turn out like this!?

Well, as long as Kira is enjoying it, then I will endure.

�gCome on Ellie, my turn. Aaahn ~?!�h

Kira leans over and slightly opens her mouth with closed eyes.

Ooooooooohm.

Ooooooooohm.

Ooooooooohm.

Fuuuuuu.

That was close, I almost tackled her again.

It's important that I properly return her affection.

Since I'm the wife.

I stab a piece of my pork roast with my fork and carefully bring it to her mouth.

Kira eats it with an incredibly happy expression.

Even being on this side somehow seems to fill me up.

Truly a fearsome dining technique!

***

As expected, it was way too easy to infiltrate.

This is the city�fs castle keep you know?

The place that should have the most security.

Yet I�fm already on the top floor and nobody realized it.

Are these guards alright?

A lot of them were asleep at their post.

I know it�fs almost midnight, but that�fs all the more reason to be vigilant.

It�fs a shameful display, but it makes my job easier so I shouldn't complain.

There also aren't any infra-red cameras, motion sensors or guardian sentinel robots.

My skills will get dull like this!

Look, I'm already in front of the door to the treasury.

It's just a metal slab with a tumbler lock, how careless can they get?

Still, my objective is inside, so I will be breaking in regardless.

Like I said, I really shouldn't compla-

{Ellie? What�fs wrong?}

I freeze in my tracks and raise my alertness level.

There�fs magic in this world, so a magical alarm system is a given.

I almost got carried away, that was a close one!

It�fs the treasury of the city you know?

There�fs bound to be traps.

Kira might be able to help but I can�ft bring her here.

It�fs too risky for both of us, and it�fs my duty to keep her away from danger.

Since I�fm the wife.

I have Kelly�fs [Impact Pellet], but breaking a spell makes a lot of noise.

Still, if the personnel are morons then the automated security is useless.

Even if they do notice, I can make use of that distraction.

I take out the green marble and flick it at the solid metal door.

*Ting*

It breaks against it uneventfully, looks like the door itself is safe.

I approach it and use [Telekinesis] to open the lock.

These archaic locks have no chance against me!

With a *Click* it unlocks and I open it slowly.

It makes a low groan, but my [Telepathy] tells me nobody�fs noticed it.

I look into the almost completely dark room.

Since my eyes see in the darkness, I avoid using a light.

That's an easy way of getting caught, you know?

Sadly there�fs no piles of gold and gems inside, so I feel disappointed.

You�fre supposed to be a treasury, have you no shame?

It�fs closer to a storeroom, just a bunch of weapon racks, bags and chests lying around.

However, I notice a thin, transparent film on the floor.

That�fs probably the security measure.

I also spot my prize for the night - the old fart�fs box!

Usually they�fre 2 meters on all sides.

The one the tortoise had swallowed was like that.

But this one is like a small safe, only about 30 centimeters on all sides.

It�fs sitting on a shelf in the back.

Normally you�fd have to tread on the enchanted floor to reach it.

But since I can just carry it over with [Telekinesis] it�fs no problem.

The small box floats above the ground and reaches my open arms uneventfully.

It�fs a mess - charred, scratched and dented.

The green keypad on the front is barely functioning.

Looks like these people tried to smash it open.

But this is a Tritanium reinforced safe you know?

The force you need to break it open is unreasonable.

It would turn whatever's inside to dust, making the effort pointless.

They still tried though, it's covered in scars and burns.

Although it's only the paint that got damaged.

If anything, the impact from it crashing into the ground is the problem.

There's a good chance the contents are trashed anyway.

But, our mission is to confirm them, so let's get on with it.

I place the safe at my feet, bite the tip of my thumb and smear a bit of blood on the keypad.

The keypad flickers a few times and with a light *BEEP* it�fs unlocked.

{All done. There was the usual self-destruct booby trap.}

Nano works fast as always.

And that old fart is as crazy as always.

If someone were to enter the wrong passcode enough times, the box would explode.

It�fs like he�fs saying �eIf I can�ft have it, then nobody will!�f

Nano is technically a �enobody�f so it's okay, right?

I open the door, the contents are surprisingly intact.

A chrome-colored metal capsule is secured by impact-absorbing foam.

It�fs clearly marked with a familiar yellow circle.

{Ohhh, an Abranium isotope! That old fart had something high-class as usual.}

Abranium is a type of reactor fuel, extremely radioactive.

If this container was damaged, the whole castle would suffer radiation poisoning overnight.

We�fll be taking it off their hands, it�fs for their own good really.

They don�ft have a reactor to use it, so the only thing they can do is cause a disaster.

We don�ft have one either right now, but we'll be keeping this safe.

I want to dispose of it safely, but we lack the proper equipment.

With the retrieval done all that's left is a useless box.

I close it back up and float it back to its place.

Then I shut and lock the treasury door and quietly leave the castle.

{Mission complete. No witnesses. Great work as usual Ellie.}

Chapter 51 - It's still magic even if you know how it's done - Binary Soul
| Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gI�fll be going then, later Kira.�h

�gBe careful Ellie!�h

Ellie leaves the inn with a wave of her hand. She�fs going to handle the second box alone since it�fs probably in
the castle. The sun's going to set in about an hour, but she said it will take a while. I guess it's good she's being
careful.

I walk over to the bar where Kelly is nursing a mug, but she seems displeased.

�gWhat�fs wrong Kelly?�h

�gI�fll tell ya what�fs wrong, the ale here is terrible! Yeah you heard me!�h

Well yeah, it�fs an inn. The food and drinks here aren�ft exactly for connoisseurs. Also, don't shout at the
innkeeper, they'll kick us out if you make a mess. Kelly probably wants to go out and get hammered, but Ellie
insisted we stick together.

Come to think of it, Kelly said she used to live here. And I'm curious about Hell since it's my first visit. So let's
consider this as a chance to bond as comrades and ask her to show me the good bars and pubs around here.

It's not because I instantly felt lonely when Ellie left. This and that are completely unrelated.

I go upstairs and change into my [Troll Leather] armor. I�fm also taking my staff and gauntlet. Knowing Kelly, a
brawl is bound to break out so I'm going in armed.

Even if I won't use it, I get paranoid when I leave [Tranquility] behind. Having this staff really brings me peace of
mind.

The gauntlet itself is a bit creepy since it�fs a shiny black material. It fits perfectly over my right hand and goes
halfway up to the elbow.

Since it�fs an invocation tool, it looks different from a normal gauntlet. The fingertips are long and pointy, almost
like claws. There's also some ominous-looking ridges and carvings here and there. These are important to properly
guide the spells.

I dislike the intimidating look, but it can't be helped. I come back downstairs and see Kelly�fs still in a bad mood.

�gSup, Red? Heading out?�h

�gYeah, I want to check out the pubs and bars around here, want to show me around?�h

�gDo I ever! Trust me Red, this won't be a night you'll ever forget! Or remember. Depends on how much fun we
have."

As we head out the door, I drop by where our cart is parked and pick up a dirty leather bag.
"What're you doing with that?"

�gI have to drop by the Adventurer�fs Guild first.�h

"The Guild huh? I've never been inside you know. That lot won�ft let me in since they think mercenaries take their
jobs. It�fs actually the other way around most of the time, you know?�h

�gThat so? We don't get a lot of mercenaries in Runetap, I had no idea. Well, I'm your employer so there won't be a
problem if you just follow me inside for a bit."

I fling the bag over my shoulder and we head out.

It�fs just some monster subjugation trophies we picked up on the trip. Our finances have been a bit stretched ever
since that completely unreasonable poop tor- I mean, High Dragon incident, so we need to be more prudent with our
earnings for a while.

***

We enter the Adventurer�fs Guild. It�fs pretty much exactly like the one in Runetap. Must be regulations. It�fs
good though, I know where everything is immediately.

I walk over to the counter. Kelly�fs tagging along throwing mean looks all around. I guess she really doesn�ft get
along with adventurers. When I reach the receptionist, a kind-looking motherly woman, she calls out to me.

�gGood day. First time in Hell?�h

�gGood day, yes that�fs right.�h

�gAre you two already registered with the guild.�h

�gI am, my friend here is just accompanying me.�h

�gAlright, then how can the guild help you today?

�gI�fd like to turn in subjugation trophies.�h

�gUnderstood, please pass me the trophies and your card.�h

I do as instructed. She takes the leather bag and passes it back to her colleagues. Then she looks at the card and lets
out a surprised yell.

�gOh my! So young and already Rank B!? And you�fre also a [Sage]?! That�fs quite impressive, miss Quasse!
�h

�gMiss receptionist, please refrain from shouting so loud. Also, it's Mrs.�h

�gMy apologies, Mrs Quasse.�h

She hands me back my card with a superficial apology. She just shouted out private information about a guild
member - a clear violation of guild policy. Kelly nudges me from behind and whispers-

�gHey, Red.�h

�gI know.�h
I curtly reply back. That was definitely an act. At her age though, that�fs not going to fool anyone. She let that
information out on purpose, probably someone troublesome will show up while they �ginexplicably�h delay my
payment.

I turn back to Kelly and whisper mischievously.

�gSo Kelly, want to know what�fs going to happen?�h

�gSure.�h

�gA noble brat called the [Black Sage] is going to show up, call me a fraud and challenge me to a duel.�h

***

�gYou there! Yes you! You�fre the upstart girl that�fs been going about besmirching the noble title of [Sage],
right?! The great me known as the [Black Sage] hereby declares you a sham and a fraud! I challenge you to a duel
with our titles on the line!�h

A black-haired black-eyed man wearing a luxurious-looking dark purple robe barges into the guild and waves a stick
at me.

�gWow Red, that�fs amazing! I didn't know you could see the future!�h

Kelly muttered with wide eyes. It's an educated guess, really. Ever since Ellie told me this guy was in town I had a
feeling he'd raise a fuss over nothing.

�gSure, in front of the guild or in the back?�h

I accept casually like I�fm ordering lunch at the inn.

It's not like I'm taking it out on him since Ellie isn't here and I feel annoyed. This and that are completely unrelated.

�g... uh�c y-yes. That is, in front, of course! I want everyone in Hell to witness your pathetic defeat!�h

We walk outside and the peanut gallery follows.

This is the first time I've met this guy, but as expected, the "Black" referred to his hair and eyes which are typical of
nobles. My guess is Papa bought him everything, even hired others to do accompany him on his commissions so he
can raise his rank.

Titles however are strictly regulated. It's not something his Papa can just buy, so that means his [Black Sage] isn't
just for show.

A guild official walks out of the building and confirms the rules. It's a regulated duel between adventurers so
oversight is important. Duels are simple - we keep going until one side gives up or is knocked out.

Killing your opponent is no different from murder, but this guy's face clearly says something like "accidents happen
and I'll be forgiven no matter what."

Each of us assumes our starting position as instructed by the official. We're facing each other with about 10 paces
between us.

Blackie readies his stick. Wait that's a staff? The quality is so low it looks like it would snap the instant I touch it,
yet his robe is that fancy? Is Hell full of idiots or something?

I left my own staff with Kelly since I did promise Nano not to use it on small fry. The gauntlet should be enough for
this.

"Then, start!"

The official sets us of.

�g ---- [Fireball]�h

His spell flies at me, but I just calmly get out of its way. What is this guy doing, not even goblins will get hit by a
[Fireball] that slow! He points his staff directly at my head!

�g -- [Lesser Beam]�h

�gHut!�h

I roll under his spell using a trick Kelly taught me. Read your opponent's body, discern their aim and even the
instantaneous [Beam] spells can be dodged. It's easy to do against mages since their tools direct the spell and the
incantation can be used for the timing. Kelly says she uses this method against swords and axes, but that level's out
of my reach.

�gWhy you!�h

He gets agitated and starts firing more and more [Lesser Beam] spells, but all of them are dodged. Compared to
Ellie�fs passionate charge, this guy is nothing.

Why am I comparing my wife's affections to a dangerous spell? No, Ellie's onslaught can be dangerous in its own
way.

He keeps firing spells at me. He�fs still a [Sage], so all the elements come at me. Wind blades, icicles, fire bolts,
ground spikes. I dodge a good amount and block the rest with [Barrier]. I haven�ft made an attack yet.

Oh, he�fs finally bringing out a big one. That stance is for a lightning spell. Probably of the [Thunder] series. I
reach upwards with my gauntlet and prepare a defense.

" ---- [High Thunder]"

�g ---- [Electric Hold]�h

The [High Thunder] comes down on me at the same time that I activate my counter-spell. Since [Hold] spells trap
magic-based attacks of the same element, the spell doesn't hit me. Instead it coils itself around the ball of mana
floating above my palm.

Essentially, I just caught a lightning bolt. Blackie is left stupefied, like he though I was only good at running. In my
eyes, he's just bad at aiming.

I lower my hand and point the mass of mana in it directly at him. Give it a new direction and-

" - [Impact]"

A shockwave travels through the air.

" --- [Barrier]"

My opponent had recovered from his shock and brings up a barrier, but it cracks and shatters almost instantly. He's
flung back, falls on his butt and drops his staff.

�g -- [Firebolt]"

Now that he's disarmed, I turn his staff into ashes. Blackie falls into despair and starts crawling away from me.
However, he's not knocked out and has not surrendered. Therefore, the duel is still going.

" --- [Earth Bind]"

Stone shackles appear and restrain his hands and feet to the ground. Like this he's helplessly locked into a precarious
position with his back against the ground. I point a finger at his chest.

�g -- [Lesser Beam]"

"Waah!"

I don't know why he's screaming. His robe is excellent at repelling magic, it brilliantly absorbed the beam spell.
There's a black burn mark on the surface, but it didn't reach his skin.

�g -- [Lesser Beam] -- [Lesser Beam] -- [Lesser Beam] -- [Lesser Beam] --[Firebolt]"

Preparations complete, now for the final blow. I raise my hand and-

"I surrender!"

""""WHAAAAT?""""

-concede the duel, much to the surprise of the spectators.

***

After the crowd disperses I finally receive my subjugation reward and leave the guild with Kelly.

"Hey Red, are you really alright with what you did?"

"Huh? What do you mean?"

I think it went perfectly, I wonder why Kelly has doubts.

"Why'd you give up your [Red Sage] that easily?! Ellie will never accept that!"

"What are you talking about?"

"Didn't that guy spout something like 'fight me with our titles on the line' while challenging you?"

Ah I see, she's not a guild member so she hasn't realized it yet.

"As if the Guild would accept that. Blackie back there was just being a drama queen."

Losing a title over a quarrel, what sort of childish organization would allow that? The only way titles are taken away
in the first place are through expulsion from the guild.
"Then his title was never in danger either? Wasn't the whole fight completely pointless?"

"That's right."

"So why'd you accept the duel if you were just going to surrender anyw-"

Kelly freezes mid-sentence. Her face turns into a wide grin. Looks like she's catching on.

Looking at it objectively, he won a duel without suffering an injury. Any adventurer would be proud with this result.

Of course there's the fact that he never landed a blow, his weapon was destroyed, his expensive robe had the word
'PIG' burned into the chest area and he's now sporting a reverse-mohawk, courtesy of a well-placed fire spell.

Surely the rumor mill is running wild at this point. His life in Hell will become what I've lived with for years.

"Hah. HAHAHAHAHAHA! That's brilliant! Red, I underestimated you! The look on his face was perfect, too!
Hahahaha!"

"Huhuhu, that's right. Since you understand, I'll let you buy me a drink!"

"Now we're talking! Leave it to me, I know where they serve the best ale in town!"

"I'm counting on you!"

Still, I need to properly thank Nano and Ellie for their guidance. Before I realized, I grew overly reliant on the raw
power I could bring out from my staff. The name [Tranquility] ended up being ironic.

Before I met Nano and Ellie, I had trouble controlling the amount of mana. Once I got [Tranquility] I started going
overboard with it and my skill at directing and molding mana suffered. If I was the same as I was back then, Blackie
probably wouldn't have left the duel with all his limbs attached.

So by making me use a gauntlet, it wasn't to keep me from running wild. It was to help me run wild in the
right direction. How come Nano's so smart even though he's a disembodied voice? It honestly annoys me a bit.

Well, that's all for later. Right now I'm dying for a drink by now, so let's get smashed for once!

It's not because Ellie still isn't here and I want to drown my sorrows in alcohol.

This and that are completely unrelated.

Chapter 52 - Some women call it �ggirls night out,�h others call it
�gtherapy�h - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�g... and so, so, I says to him, I say �eYou didn�ft mention the orc *urp* orc den, so I thought it wasn�ft
important�f and never looked back.�h

�gSo scum like that exist in every business huh?�h

�gAye, those pee- *urp* people trying to. Trying to make us work for free! They think just cuz I�fm short I�fm
a pushover. I�fll push them! Ov- over!�h

Kelly has been complaining about her past employers for a while now. I�fm starting to see why she�fs so
distrusting of others. All of them had tried to cut her pay or force extra work on her. Mercenaries have it rough, huh?

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

I just wish she�fd stop chugging endlessly like that. I�fm still on my second mug but she�fs already downed six.
It won�ft be long until her drunk level goes from Pleasantly Buzzed to Angry.

�gThat�fs some good stuff. Oi barkeep, what�fs in this swill anyway? Bah, doesn�ft matter.�h

*GLUG GLUG* *SLAM*

Make that seven. Ellie still hasn�ft come back from her mission, but Nano said she�fs just being extra careful.
That�fs good. I've decided it's a good thing, okay?

In the meantime, Kelly led me to a little bar in some back alley. It looked suspicious, so we�fre vigorously
investigating the drinks. Results are�c inconclusive.

�gRed�c�h

Kelly looks at me with a somewhat serious face while the barkeep is refilling her mug.

�gI love ya.�h

�g... Huh?�h

�gI said I feckin�f love ya. You and that wife of yours are the best, y�fknow? You�fre good people and don�ft
lie or swindle. Even that peeping bastard is a good guy. Girl? Nano. Good Nano. Yeah.�h

Oh thank goodness... For a while there I thought�c Nevermind, let�fs forget about that thought right away.
Luckily, I have the perfect thing for the job.

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

I chug my own drink this time, finishing it off. I don�ft slam the mug though, that�fs a bit much for me. I do want
to maintain at least some of my dignity as a woman.

This is really good ale though. I don�ft drink much, but delicious things are delicious. Come to think of it, I�fve
never seen Ellie drink. Probably for the best, that�fs a recipe for disaster.
�gI�fm glad you�fre with us too Kelly. Nano says you�fre a big help.�h

�gNah, forget that. You. You listen here, right. You�fre the impro- *urp* important one yeah? To Ellie. *GLUG
GLUG* I can tell she had it rough as a kid. Peeps tried to- to- to- *urp* tell me, but I didn�ft wanna listen.�h

Kelly�fs talking an awful lot more than usual. I don�ft think this is just the alcohol anymore.

Also who is Peeps supposed to be? Is it Nano? It�fs Nano, right?

�gThat girl�fs killed before, you know that right? Any mercenary can feel the stench of death about that ominous
sword she has.�h

Kelly talks to me while staring at her drink with downcast eyes. I see, she�fs realized it too.

�gYes�cIt�fs something I want to paint over. I want to make sure she doesn�ft recall anything painful ever
again. That�fs my foolish mission as that girl�fs wife.�h

�gHah! I think you�fre already done with that, though. What did she call it? Suns and smiles? Something like
that.

The Ellie we know was born the day *urp* you two met. Who she was before is gone forever. I hope. That lassie
right now is jus- *urp* just the person she needs to be!�h

*GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG* *SLAM*

Kelly finishes off her eighth mug and slams it down. I see, she may act a bit harsh sometimes, but she really does
care deep down.

�gPuhah! That�fs gooooood! Oi barkeep! Fill me up again would ya?�h

Just as Kelly's getting a refill, I feel someone sit on the stool to my left, with Kelly on my right.

Wait, isn�ft he the guard captain we met at the gate?

�gExcuse me, miss, wou-�h

*SLAM*

�gOooph!�h

Wait, when did Kelly get up and hit him? He fell down from the stool and landed on his knees and elbows. Looks
like she got him square in the gut.

�gFeck off mate! The girl�fs married! Didn�ft you get the hint at the gate!�h

�gKelly! Why�fd you hit the guard captain for no reason?�h

�gWho? This loser? That�fs no captain! He�fs barely even a guard! *urp* The real- Real Captain�fs a buff
strict-looking guy. Not this dainty cunt.�h

�gYou! *Cough* How dare you assault the city guard! *Cough Cough* I will make sure you�fre thrown in jail
the rest of your life! You and that stupi-�h
*Smash*

�gGehut!�h

Just as he was getting up, Kelly bashed his face in with her mug. Her ale sloshed from the impact, but none of it was
spilled. What�fs with that pointlessly high-level skill?

Or rather, she�fs still holding onto that thing? She brought it all the way from Runetap with her and even brought it
into the bar. Maybe it�fs a dwarf thing.

The guard �ecaptain�f is sprawled out on the floor, unconscious. Looks like she broke his nose and maybe some
teeth. Oh, so that�fs why that mug�fs covered in bloodstains on one side! Thank goodness, I thought it was used
in some macabre ritual or belonged to some cult.

�c I hope she properly washes it off later, but I'm not holding my breath.

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

�gAh, the taste is ruined now. That guy went and ruined the good mood!�h

Oh no. This is bad! Definitely bad! Angry Drunk Kelly has appeared!

�gOi Kelly, that you!?�h

�gHuh? Oh if it isn�ft Gramps! You old windbag how ya been!?�h

�gHaha! Pretty good you know!�h

Just as I thought the bar was going to lose some patrons, someone called out to her.

It's an elderly dwarf. His hair and thick belly-length beard are completely white, but his bulging muscles don�ft
lose to Kelly�fs. Maybe meat-headed-ness is also a dwarf thing?

Oliver back in Runetap wasn�ft like that though. But then again Kelly called him a failure of a dwarf...

�gOi Red, this here is my uncle Alan. He took care of me for a few years while I was living here. Taught me
everything I know about bar fights!�h

Kelly introduces him with a hand wrapped around his shoulders. Is bar-fighting really something that needs to be
taught?

�gGood day Alan, my name is Kiressara mil Quasse, a pleasure to meet you.�h

�gAh? Why in Hell is this girl�fs name so bloody long?�h

Hey, I�fm right here you know?

�gI know, right? I just call her Red! Don�ft call her Kira though, her other *urp* other half will get super jealous
and snap your arm in three!�h

Is that why only Ellie and Nano ever call me that? Ellie didn�ft go around threatening people at knifepoint over
that nickname, right?

�c No wait, didn�ft she already do that with Olboun!? So she actually gets jealous over others using her pet name
for me?

How sweet ~?! I�fll have to properly thank her later ~?!

�gHahaha! Sounds like my type of guy! Where�fs he at?�h

�gOh! This is the best part, gramps! Get this, she�fs married to another woman!�h

�gBahahhaha! Yeah right, and the king�fs actually an evil wizard! C�fmon where is the bloke?!�h

What a jolly couple of shorties. However, I can�ft let this slide. It�fs my duty to correct this misunderstanding.

Since I�fm the wife.

�c huh.

�gMister Alan. Kelly is serious you know? My wife is a woman.�h

�gWha!? For real?�h

�gFor real.�h

�gWell I�fll be, a double wife set! Never even thought that was possible! I�fm even more curious who the luc-
�h

His expression went from happy, to doubtful, to surprised, to happy and finally to mortified all within a few seconds.
It�fs like a puddle during a storm! No wonder his face is so wrinkled up.

Wait why is he staring at Kelly like that?

Kelly on the other hand suddenly puts on a foul face and hits him semi-seriously in the shoulder.

�gIt�fs not me ya daft bastard! Red�fs just my client! You know. As a MER-CER-NAR-EE!�h

�gOh yeah!? I�fm pretty sure I heard someone say �eRed, I love ya�f from across the bar earlier!�h

Uh oh.

�gHey! What�fs that supposed to mean you old turd! I love mum and about half my brothers, but you don�ft see
me marrying them!�h

Angry Drunk Kelly is rapidly evolving into Rampaging Drunk Kelly!

�gYeah I�fm trying to �eget at something�f! I wanna see you doing your duty as a Darkhand! All 11 of your
brothers and sisters and most of your cousins already have children!�h

�gSo what!? That�fs their own problem!�h

�gAnd what about your problem then? You still messing around with that pile of junk you call a golem? You�fll
never get a man if you keep wasting your time on that garbage! That childish joke of yours has been going on for far
too long!�h

�gWhy you-�h
Kelly takes a swing at him but misses. She�fs completely off-balance and spins around, almost falling over.

�gAh, wait wait wait, time-out a sec, Gramps!�h

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

She�fs�c finishing her drink? And that uncle of hers is peacefully waiting? What�fs this about?

�gFuah, okay, ready when you are!�h

*BLAM*

Alan�fs fist instantly meets Kelly�fs face. She stumbles backwards but doesn�ft fall. She spits out some blood
with a *ptui* and charges at him. They trade blows while blood and spit flies here and there.

Mister Barkeep, are you really okay with this?

He and the other patrons are all enjoying the show, so long as it doesn�ft devolve into full-blown brawl it should be
okay, right?

***

The two rowdy drunks calmed down after Alan knocked Kelly out. This old guy is stronger than he looks!

She woke up a minute later and now they�fre back to being chummy. I will never understand these meat-head
types. No, let's make it a life goal to never understand them!

�gI can tell you�fve been practicing your Drunken Fisticuffs. Good girl!�h

�gAye, I�fve been visiting the werewolf joint in Runetap. Those furballs can really take a pounding, and they give
as good as they get.�h

�gThat right? Is the drink any good?�h

�gIt�fs the absolute best! You should drop by sometime!�h

�gReally now? Think they�fll like me?�h

�gYou kiddin�f? They�fll fecking love you! Those guys are real friendly! I knocked 6 of em out during my first
visit and smashed the bar in half, so they let me keep this mug as a memento!�h

�gThat so? It�fs a great mug, hard as steel!�h

That reminds me, Kelly gave Alan a mug-shot like the one she gave the �ecaptain�f but Alan barely even
flinched. Just how tough IS this guy?

As for that fake captain, some people carried him away to the barracks for medical attention a while ago. If he
makes a fuss later I just have to remind him how he impersonated a superior officer. He could hang for that.

Wait, isn�ft this a good opportunity to blackmail him in full force? The coins I made today could use some
friends�c No, let�fs leave him. He isn�ft worth the trouble. Plus we�fre leaving first thing in the morning.

All right, I�fll forgive him since Kelly already broke his one good asset.
�gSo Red. I�fm getting a bit sober. However, the barkeep doesn�ft want to serve me any more ale. Therefore,
me and Gramps are going to another place. You wanna come with?�h

�gHmm, I don�ft know. Nano, is Ellie still busy?�h

{Yeah, it�fs taking us a while to find our way around the castle.}

{You go have fun, we won�ft be back until midnight, at least.}

�gAlright, I�fm coming with.�h

I�fm a little tipsy myself, so I can take a few more drinks before I call it a night.
Chapter 53 - Please drink responsibly, for your own sake and that of
others - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gUuuuuugh!�h

My head! Why is it on the other side of the room!? Ah, this is not a good way to wake up.

Wake up? I went to sleep? I don�ft recall much after we left the second bar last night. No, actually I don�ft recall
anything past that point. It's completely blank.

Well, this looks like our inn room so at least I got here okay. Also the room is intact, this is also important. And this
warm fuzzy thing snuggling into my bosom is probably Ellie.

�c

There�fs a blue fuzzy tail peeking out of the covers, so it�fs definitely Ellie. Safe! Ah, I missed her last night!
Let�fs hug her a bit tighter and enjoy her warmth.

Wait, I�fm naked aren�ft I? And according to the pointy things I feel poking into my body, so is Ellie. Let�fs
make sure I didn�ft do anyt-

*KOTOKORORORORO*

I just bumped into something while moving my leg. The something fell off the bed and rolled across the wooden
floor. I don�ft need to look at it to guess what it is. Why did I even bring that thing?

Oh, my shuffling around is waking Ellie up!

�gGood morning Ellie ~?!�h

�g!!!�h

Hmm? She�fs staring a bit wide-eyed at me. I wonder why. Her eyes keep meeting mine then instantly looking to
the sides. It�fs kind of cute in its own way.

�g... good morning... Kira�c�h

She�fs being�c bashful? It�fs unlike her to be like this. No, actually, isn�ft this the first time this happened
outside of home? Maybe she�fs actually embarrassed for once.

�g... that�c last night�c�h

She's redder than a tomato right now. I guess we went a bit wild as usual. I may not remember, but I should
apologize.

�gI�fm sorry Ellie ~?! I was drunk so I probably went a little overboard, please forgive me okay ~??�h

�gOkay! I didn�ft really mind, I was just surprised�c�h

Her usual full-blown smile returns in an instant. I did say we would avoid doing these things during the trip, but
drunk me doesn�ft have much self-control and surprised her. She seems okay with it, but I still feel like I did a bad
thing.

***

I walk down to the inn�fs main floor with Ellie in tow. Kelly�fs already there chowing down on her breakfast.
The innkeeper gives me a difficult look when I order two servings. I do my best to ignore it and go to Kelly�fs
table.

�gMorning Red, Ellie. How you girls doing?�h

�gMorning Kelly. I�fm a bit hungover, but it should go away with a bit of breakfast.�h

�gHah! Lightweight.�h

I sit down and the innkeeper brings us our breakfast.

�gHere you girls go."

"Thanks."

I reply with a small smile. For some reason his difficult face doesn't ease up. Looks like he has more to say.

"Look I know it�fs none of my business what you do, but you can�ft trouble my other guests like that.�h

Ah, Ellie�fs red up to her ears! I guess we were too wild and the whole inn heard us...

�gI�fm sorry, I got way too drunk and things got out of hand. It honestly wasn�ft my intention to disturb your
guests.�h

�gWell then that�fs fine. Just�c warn people next time. If it wasn�ft for your dwarf friend there I would�fve
barged in, it sounded like someone was getting stabbed.�h

Well, he wasn�ft completely wrong�c

He walks back to the counter and I turn my attention to my breakfast. Lightly toasted white bread with eggs on it,
sausages and tea. It looks really good, I grab a piece of toast and start eating.

�gHmm, Kelly something wrong with the sausages?�h

I notice Kelly hasn�ft even touched them. Maybe they�fre not to her liking?

�gHmm? I they're probably fine. I just don�ft like sausages that much.�h

�gThat�fs weird. Usually you love to eat meat.�h

�gSure, I mean the taste is probably fine, but the shape is a bit off-putting.�h

Huh, that�fs a strange thing to say. The shape is perfectly fine isn�ft it? A regular sausage, right? Come to think
of it, she looked a bit put off when I asked her to hold my staff during the duel yesterday. Also that time with-

Wait, that can�ft be right. Something like that is just my imagination, right?

�gUmm Kelly? Do you by chance dislike long things?�h

�gAye, they make me a bit uncomfortable so I try and avoid them.�h

She confirmed my incredibly stupid idea with a nod of her head.

�gIs it a dwarf thing? Is that why only dwarves complain about my name?�h

She nods again.

�gSo�c you dislike holding my staff? *Nod* Pencils? *Nod* Ladders? *Nod* The baker�fs cat back in Runetap?
*Nod*�h

I had no idea. What sort of inferiority complex is this? And it applies to the whole race? That�fs a bit ludicrous.

Or is it? Humans tend to find unnaturally short things a bit cute, maybe it�fs like that in reverse?

�gWhat about the golem though? Isn't it much taller than it needs to be?�h

�gHmm? It's just big. It's not needlessly long like arrows or poleaxes.�h

I�c see�c it�fs oddly specific�c

�gBy the way, Ellie when are you going to eat your breakfast? Tea�fs getting cold.�h

Kelly pulls up the chair next to her while she says that. Now that I think about it, Ellie is still standing behind me.

�gSomething the matter Ellie?�h

I turn around and ask her out of concern. She's been acting a bit odd all morning. Her eyes dart between me and the
chair several times.

�gWell�c after yesterday...�h

She�fs getting bashful again. It�fs cute but also worrying. My memory is drawing a blank, but luckily we have
our resident peep- I mean, guardian.

�gNano, what did I do last night?�h

{You don�ft remember? Oh boy.}

{Well, how can I put this? Remember that special tool from this morning?}

�g... Yeees?�h

{Let�fs just say it was slightly misused.}

***

We're approaching the third box. It took us 5 days to get here. Five, long, awkward days. Ellie already forgave me,
but I haven�ft forgiven myself. I am never getting that drunk again!

We find the box abandoned in plain sight by the side of the road. Whoever was dragging it around probably got tired
of wasting their effort and cut their losses.
�gNano, you keep calling them �eboxes�f but I�fve not actually seen you open one.�h

Kelly raises a fair point. I�fve not seen one opened either. It�fs just a big metal cube no matter how much I look at
it.

{Hmm, that�fs right, you haven�ft had the chance.}

{Well, go right ahead Ellie, show them how it�fs done!}

Ellie walks up to and around the cube. She goes around it, looking for something. Kelly and I follow her out of
curiosity.

On the opposite side of where we came from was a pattern. It looked like a dozen or so tiny squares had been etched
into the metal with green light. Each of these had a green rune-like symbol on them.

This must have been what Ellie was looking for. She stands next to it, bites the tip of her thumb hard enough to draw
blood and smears some of it on the green pattern.

*Pzzt dzzzt* *Bing*

The green light flashes several times with some strange noises.

{There, it�fs unlocked.}

�gWhat did you do!?�h

Kelly seems a bit creeped out. I have to say, I�fm with her on this one.

{I carefully asked the lock to open itself.}

�gSo�c you talked to the box�c through Ellie�fs blood...�h

�gKelly. It�fs your loss if you mind it.�h

I try to remind her of this simple truth.

�gBut!�h

�gIt�fs your loss if you mind it.�h

�gNo, Red, look there�fs some things that I can accept and some things that I can�ft. This is-�h

�gLook Kelly!�h

I stomp my foot and scream in frustration. This woman will not understand until I spell it out for her, so just this
once I�fm going to go full force!

�gI�fm trying REAAAALLY hard to accept all this, okay? I don�ft mean to brag, but I�fve been at this longer
than you have, okay? If something important comes up, I�fm sure Nano will mention it as necessary, okay?

Therefore, believe me when I say this.

You. Lose. If. You. Mind. It.�h

Okay, rant over. Let�fs hide the scary expression I have on and pull away from Kelly. I'm not aware at what point I
was leaning in that close to her face.

Deep breaths, Kiressara. Come on, you can do this.

Fuuuuu. Fuuuuu. Fuuuuu.

Okay, I feel better. I flash my usual smile at the pale-faced Kelly.

�gAny more questions?�h

�g... No�c I�fm good�c thanks�c�h

-was the meek reply.

I turn my head to Ellie, who�fs looking at me with admiration in her eyes. No, however you think about it, what
just happened was completely devoid of admirable actions.

Since that horrible accident of a detour is over, we get back to what we came here to do.

�gNow then, shall we take a peek inside.�h

Ellie makes an expression like she just remembered the actual reason we were out here.

�gI�fm opening it.�h

She puts her hand on the green pattern and it gets brighter. The cube�fs surface splits open like a set of double
doors to the left and right. Inside seem to be�c a bunch of golems?

They look like the ones back home. White and slightly rounded exterior, clearly not living beings. Except these are
human shaped. Probably. They�fre folded up, but I can see knees, elbows and heads, so they�fre probably human.

It�fs hard to say how many are in there. Something like 30 or 40 by my guess.

{Ah, these things. I guess you could call them butler golems.}

{They�fll be useful, mostly as parts, but not until we get them back to the tower.}

{For now, bury this one in the ground with magic. We�fll pick it up on the way back.}

�gBury them? And what do you mean on the way back?�h

I ask for clarification since something strange was said.

{Box number four has started moving at a steady pace.}

{It�fs headed towards the place where the other three boxes are.}

That group of three has been bugging me ever since Nano mentioned them, but it was decided to leave them for last.
It may have been a bad call.

{I�fd like us to take care of those right away. Dragging this box along is just going to slow us down.}

�gSo someone�fs definitely collecting them. But they�fre just dead weight unless they know how to open them.
They don�ft even look like boxes on the outside you know?�h

�gRed�fs right, it doesn�ft make sense. Maybe they found out how to open it by accident?�h

Oh good, Kelly�fs back to normal already. Looks like all those years as a mercenary aren�ft just for show.

{Impossible. There�fs a chance, but it�fs so tiny it�fs not even worth thinking about it.}

{If you try to force them open too much, they�fll explode you know?}

�gWhat if it�fs someone else that knows of [Star Magic]?�h

It�fs a thought that crossed my mind a few times. I only saw one [Fallen Star], but there�fs no guarantee others
didn�ft show up elsewhere, or at a later date.

{It�fs a possibility. I�fll need to confirm once we get close to the place.}
Chapter 54 - No battle plan survives contact with the enemy - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

It�fs now been 35 days after we left Runetap. This expedition of ours is taking longer than we planned, but we
decided to gather information from the villages and towns on the way, so it can�ft be helped.

Based on what we heard, there�fs been a bandit group in these mountains that has gotten really successful with
their raids lately. I had a hunch they�fre also the ones who were gathering up the [Starshards].

We�fre currently stopped over in a nearby village, making preparations. We�fll be leaving the carriage behind and
proceeding on foot. It should take a few hours to reach our target in the wilderness.

Nano had brought one of the flying eye golems from home, but it was left sleeping to conserve energy. Since it can
only fly around for about two days before collapsing, we decided to keep it only for emergencies.

I think bandits getting their hands on [Star Magic] is as good an emergency as any.

So for once, Nano is actually doing a job! Well, technically the golem's the one doing the scouting, but Nano's
helping, right? It's not like I think Nano's a freeloader. How can someone be a freeloader when they don't even eat?

In the meantime, the rest of us are getting ready. Kelly�fs already wearing her armor and is double-checking its
condition. Ellie�fs confirming the state and count of her weapons while I intently stare at her adorably
focused face.

Hmm? I should get ready too?

No no no, I�fm preparing plenty right now. Burning Ellie�fs rare expressions into my memory will give me a
superhuman will to live on, you know? Seeing that completely serious face while she�fs inspecting her knives has
a profound effect on me. Spiritually. Mostly.

And those fuzzy ears twitch randomly like they have a mind of their own! That�fs cheating, right? That�fs
definitely cheating! I want to touch theeeem!

{Kira, I�fm looking at the bandit camp right now. As usual, your intuition was spot on.}

Gah! How dare Nano interrupt my preparations! These are vital you know!

�g *Cough* What are we dealing with?�h (Kira)

I got carried away slightly, so let�fs get back on track. The sooner we get this over with the sooner I can get back to
Ellie appreciation.

{They�fve occupied a rather wide cave. Wooden fortifications and a few buildings around the entrance.}

{I�fm seeing 50 bandits on the outside. 30 of them are armed with a <<Pulse Rifle>>}

{It�fs a weapon that spits metal shards with extreme speed and frequency.}

{Five of those bandits have something that�fs a weaker version of Kelly�fs golem armor.}
{The other 20 bandits I see are typical ruffians armed with swords or axes.}

{I can�ft see inside the cave, but it looks deep so more of them are likely inside.}

�gWhat do you mean weaker versions of Scrappy?�h (Kelly)

{There's a concept similar to your golem armor in [Star Magic]. The way it works is different, but the result is
similar.}

{However, the current Scrappy is heavier, tougher, faster and stronger than their defective products.}

�gThat�fs how it is huh? Any suggestions on fighting them?�h (Kelly)

{Just be wary of their strength and speed. They�fre still bandits inside so their movements will not be ideal.}

�gNano, those metal-spitting weapons you mentioned, what�fs that about?�h (Kira)

It�fs hard to imagine what the effects are, hopefully Nano can give us a good picture.

{You know how fast Ellie�fs throwing knives are?}

�gYes, I can�ft even see them until they strike their target.�h (Kira)

{Like that, only even faster and they throw out 2 of those every second.}

Geh! That�fs terrifying! It�fs the first time I hear of such a terrifying weapon! Actually, the bandits should be the
same, right? Won't they injure themselves if they don't handle them properly?

�gThese weapons, do they know to use them?�h (Kira)

{They�fre holding and handling them properly, so yes, it�fs likely.}

�gAre they really that easy to use?�h (Kelly)

That can�ft be, right? Even something that seems simple like a sword still takes years of practice to use properly.
There�fs no way these meat-heads figured out how to use [Star Magic] infused weapons in just a few months,
right?

We�fre talking about that completely incomprehensible and endlessly absurd [Star Magic], right? The one even
Ellie and Nano don�ft fully understand, right?

{In a way. You need very little skill to use them, but even that much needs to be taught.}

�gSo in other words, they definitely have someone who knows of [Star Magic].�h (Kira)

{Yes.}

I hate it when I�fm right.

�gRed, uh, any chance I can renegotiate my contract?�h (Kelly)

In mercenary speak, that means she wants to run away right now. As an employer, I really wish she�fd be more
composed at times like this. Just look at Ellie!
�gAlso, can you two stop flirting already!?�h (Kelly)

We�fre not flirting though. We�fre properly focusing on Nano's scouting report.

*Scritch Scritch*

*Prrrrrrrr*

My fingers and Ellie�fs ears have no bearing on the matter at hand. This and that are completely unrelated.

�gNyaaaa... Kelly should have a drink and calm down.�h (Ellie)

�gRight! Good call!�h (Kelly)

At Ellie�fs completely relaxed suggestion, Kelly opens both of her flasks and empties them together in one go.

Is that okay? They do call it [Liquid Courage] after all, so it�fs probably okay. But in Kelly�fs case it�fs also
[Liquid Violence].

Actually yeah, that�fs definitely okay. Perfect even.

�gAhhhh! Much better! As usual, Ellie�fs the only one that makes sense around here.

C�fmon then, what�fs the plan?�h (Kelly)

�gWell, for starters-�h (Kira)

{Actually Kira, I will be giving the orders on this one. I insist. What's waiting for us isn't one of your battlefields.}

{It�fs one of mine.}

***

We approach the bandit camp carefully. We made it to a small ridge in the mountain forest where we can observe
the situation.

It looks just like Nano said. The metal-spitting in the report are visible from here. From this distance, they look like
gray steel plates with deformed and engraved surfaces.

The bandits are holding them in a way that resembles holding a baby. A few of them are wearing shiny silver armor.
Those must be the Scrappy knock-offs.

{Let�fs go over the plan of attack one last time.}

We huddle around out of sight at Nano�fs voice.

{First, Kira will create a distraction and seal off the cave. She will hang back and provide support. I will
coordinate.}

I nod in response.

{While that�fs happening, Kelly will charge right at them since their attacks will just bounce off the armor.}

Kelly said that armor was a mix of [Orichalcum] and [Star Steel]. The blood-red [Orichalcum] allows mana to
flow easily, it�fs a necessary requirement when creating golems.

The dark gray [Star Steel] is the same metal that Ellie�fs blades and sword are made out of. It�fs several times
heavier than steel and nigh-indestructible.

The end result is that Scrappy is probably the toughest piece of armor in the world and none of their weapons, [Star
Magic] or otherwise, can penetrate it. Technically that�fs just Nano�fs one-sided assumption, but Kelly trusts it.
Therefore I have no right to complain.

I will still complain a little bit inside my heart though.

{Ellie will flank them from the side. Her job is disarming them while they focus on Kelly.}

{Once there�fs a gap, Kira will regroup with the others and invade the cave.}

{Inside, we focus on suppressing the enemy while keeping an eye out for hostages.}

According to the villages that were attacked, the bandits had taken some people. Obviously we�fre going to save
them.

{Okay girls, is everyone ready?)

We all nod in silence. In case of emergency, we will follow every order Nano gives without question. Nano�fs
earned that much, at least.

{Then Kira, start us off whenever you�fre ready.}

At Nano�fs words, I take my staff out of its sling and stab it into the ground head-first. I�fm trying to keep a low
profile so that I�fm not noticed.

�g -------- [Quake]�h (Kira)

I use a lower-tier spell from the one that buried the Monster Hole. Thanks to Nano�fs training I�fm able to control
it a lot better.

The ground starts churning and shaking. The bandits panic and their fortifications start collapsing. Kelly and Ellie
take advantage of it their confusion and assault the base. Kelly is moving in from the front, Ellie going to the left as
planned.

Their speed is amazing as expected.

I force a piece of rock from the earth and block out the cave entrance. Like this, we�fve cut off reinforcements as
well as their retreat.

�gWe�fre under attack!�h (Random bandit)

One of the bandits finally realized it�fs not a regular quake. They immediately turned their attention away from the
state of their camp and they notice the dark-red lump of metal charging at them.

Since the distraction is now no longer effective, I cancel the spell and take cover. It doesn�ft look like they noticed
me yet.

The bandits start attacking Kelly with the metal-spitters. I see plumes of blue flame come out of the weapons while
they make noises like pouring gravel into a metal bucket.
Kelly makes a beeline through the bushes and trees while sparks fly off her armor. Just like Nano said, they can�ft
penetrate it.

�gHeeyaaaa!�h (Kelly)

*THUD*

�gUrk!�h (Bandit)

She reaches the first bandit and bends him in two with a mace strike to the his mid-section. He falls over and
remains on the ground, twitching with foam coming from his mouth.

She doesn�ft lose any momentum as she strikes the next one. And the next. She gets into the middle of the group.

{Everyone. Prepare for Flash on Kelly in 3�c 2�c}

The sword-wielding men surround her while the others take aim with the metal-spitters.

{1�c Now!}

�g -- [Flash]�h (Kira)

At Nano�fs word, I create a burst of light directly above Kelly. All the bandits looking in that direction recoil,
clutching their eyes. Kelly and Ellie shielded theirs at the right time, so they�fre unaffected. Probably.

�gAh blast it!�h (Kelly)

Looks like Kelly got slightly affected anyway and randomly swings her mace around. She should have closed her
eyes, maybe the flash was a bit too much anyway?

*Swoosh* *THUD*

Her blind upward-bound swing caught one of the bandits in the jaw. He flies through the air doing multiple
backflips before crashing into the ground. He spun around so violently his boots flew off...

Meanwhile, Ellie had slipped in from the side to flank them, just as planned. I see her throwing knives at the [Star
Magic] weapons, knocking them out of the bandits' hands or puncturing them, causing smoke and sparks to fly out.

She quickly moves in on her disarmed opponents and then-

*Snap*

�gGYAAAAAA!�h (Victim 1)

*Snap*

�gAAARGH!�h (Victim 2)

�gNononono please no- *Snap* GYAAAAA!�h (Victim 3)

-the usual happens. The sudden violent screaming throws the bandits into even more panic.

One of the armored bandits seemed to have regained his senses. Probably one of the officers in the group. He
approaches Kelly with inhuman speed and takes a swing at her with his sword.

It's a fast strike, but that sword is still made of normal unenchanted steel you know? As expected, it snaps in half
when it smashes into Scrappy's [Star Steel] shell.

Kelly, who had recovered her sight, smashes him in the stomach with one mace. The officer lurches forward
involuntarily before the other mace bashes him right in the temple, making him fall on his side. Kelly then swings
both her maces down several times, denting and crushing the armor's knee and shoulder joints. He's trying to move,
but he can't even stand up.

Another officer tries to attack Ellie. She parries several of his sword swings with her own, eventually knocking the
blade from his hand. She then makes numerous swings that leave only light trails.

*CLANG CLANG CLANG CLANG*

Some loud metallic sounds ring out and the metal armor falls off the bandit like peeling an onion.

�gHuh? Wha? But- *Snap* GYAAAAA!�h (Victim 6)

The surprised officer barely has time to realize what happened before Ellie snapped his right elbow.

{All [Star Magic] weapons destroyed. Kira, move in next to Ellie and use [Thunder] on the other armored targets.
Ellie, protect her.}

Nano gives me a brief report on the situation. I put my staff back in its sling and prepare the gauntlet. I finally get to
show off a little!

I focus and measure the distance between me and my destination. Reach out, grasp the mana, grasp the space and-

�g -- [Blink]�h

I move instantaneously to a spot next to Ellie. It's not a spell I can afford while I'm being attacked. A bandit
immediately swings his axe at me, but is instantly thrown back by an invisible force.

That was close! I'm glad Nano's coordinating or that could've been very bad. For now, let's focus on my part.

" --- [Thunder] --- [Thunder] --- [Thunder]" (Kira)

Lightning bolts strike towards the three metal-clad figures in my sight. One of them had tried to dodge, but this is a
lightning bolt and he's covered in metal. In the end, all three of them get hit full on. Their movements instantly seize
up, sparks and smoke coming out of them.

{Don�ft worry, they�fre alive. The suits just refuse to move so they're trapped.}

That Nano has room to think about me and my worries at a time like this? Damn it, why are you so cool even though
you�fre not a person? No wonder Ellie trusts him unconditionally.

I start throwing [Firebolts] with my gauntlet. I aim at legs, arms and shoulders to disable the bandits. Most of them
pass out from the searing pain.

Pretty soon, the bandits realized they�fre outmatched. There�fs only three left standing now. Two of them make a
run for it, but Ellie delivers a swift set of kicks to each of their knees. Let�fs magnificently ignore the disturbingly
loud snapping noises.
�gOkay! Okay! I give up okay! I�fll surrender so keep me safe from those things okay?�h (Last bandit)

The bandit drops his weapon and gets down on his knees, begging for his safety.

�gNo.�h (Kira)

*SMACK*

I bash him over the head with my staff, knocking him out. How dare he refer to Ellie as a thing!? Does this guy
actually want to be beaten? Actually, I hear there�fs men like that, so it�fs not impossible.

That should wrap up the ones outside. They�fre all sprawled out on the ground unconscious or writhing in pain. All
that�fs left is-

{Everyone get down!}

All three of us instantly drop to the ground. After a few moments, the rock that had been blocking the entrance to the
cave explodes with a roar of fire and smoke.

Pieces of stone fly through the air, a few towards us. Ellie blocks them with her [Star Magic] so we�fre unhurt.

Something flies out of the smoking hole at high speed. It looks like a flying fish, close to a bass, but much shorter.
It�fs covered in metal with several metal bits sticking out from underneath and the sides. The upper half of its front
is covered in a reflective yellow glass-like material.

It's as big as a house! How did that even fit in that cave?

It soars silently through the air before stopping in one place, floating impossibly like a certain disembodied
voice�fs golems. It turns toward us, who are still on the ground.

�g<<So, the bitch showed up after all! What, wasn�ft satisfied with stranding me out here?>>�h (Flying fish)

There�fs a voice coming out of the thing. It sounds like a man, but it�fs way too loud for that to be a human. I
don't recognize the words either. I somehow expected it to go *Blub Blub Blub* but-

{Kira! Don�ft space out!}

Nano�fs words snaps me back to reality, now isn't the time for that! I quickly get back on my feet!

{Run away! Now!}

Chapter 55 - An angered housewife is an enemy worthy of Rank A -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
AN: Light gore warning

> Kira PoV <

�g<<So, this bitch showed up after all! What, wasn�ft satisfied with stranding me out here?>>�h (Flying fish)

{Run away! Now!}

Nano�fs panicked tone cause my legs react before my brain could. The three of us run in separate directions.

�g<<Well I don�ft plan on going down without a fight!!>>�h (Flying Fish)

*BU-DU-BU-DU-BU-DU-BU-DU*

And unearthly noise comes from behind me. Looking back, I see yellow flashing lines strike the ground, they're
coming from the front of it.

{Ellie will keep him busy, don�ft worry, she�fs fought those before.}

Ellie is running to the left of it and the trail of yellow lights follow after her, but she isn't getting hit.

{Kelly, do not try to take those attacks. Kira too, your Barriers won�ft last long. Focus on dodging the line of fire.}

Information keeps flowing in from Nano. This is completely unexpected so we don�ft have a plan.

{There�fs a person controlling it, diversions like smoke or noise are pointless. It can fly in every direction but can
only see forward.}

So it�fs a vehicle of some sort. Meaning we either have to wreck it or somehow get at the driver.

{Kelly, you�fre not much use out here, go inside the cave and deal with any other bandits. Secure the hostages}

{�gGot it, on my way.�h} (Kelly)

{Kira, you should be safe here, stop for a moment and observe the enemy.}

I duck behind a rock and peek my head out towards where the metal fish is.

�g<<That�fs it? Is this is all the dreaded Epsilon series has to offer!?>>�h (Flying Fish)

It�fs chasing Ellie incessantly. The yellow stream of light hasn�ft abated even for a moment, but Ellie is rapidly
changing directions even in midair. She�fs using those hooks of hers to swing rapidly between trees.

�g<<Good at running aren�ft ya little kitty? God damn freak!>>�h (Flying Fish)

�gNano, what�fs it saying?�h (Kira)

{It�fs just screaming profanity, ignore it. Listen Kira, it has a defensive bubble that will deflect most of Ellie�fs
attacks.}
{However, spells should have some effect on it. Hit it with a [High Thunder] from behind.}

I move slightly closer and prepare my staff.

" ---- [High Thunder]" (Kira)

The familiar lightning bolt strikes it from behind, but doesn�ft reach it. It crashes against a barrier-like hexagon
that appeared out of nowhere. The spell disappears with a flash.

�g<<Ohhh that�fs right, you brought some friends huh? Wonder if they�fre as good at running as you are!>>�h
(Flying Fish)

Its attacks stop and it starts turning this way, it definitely noticed me.

�g ----------- [High Vacuum Blades]�h (Kira)

I resort to wind magic to try and knock it off balance. I'm not very good with this element so the mana consumption
is bad.

A tornado of invisible wind blades appeared around the fish. Numerous hexagon-shaped barriers appear around it
and absorb the impacts, but the wind itself is making it shake and spin out of control.

�g<<Gah, what�fs with this fucking wind? You filthy bitch!>>�h (Flying Fish)

Good, like that it can�ft attack for a while. More importantly I just felt a gap.

�gNano, how do I disable that barrier?�h (Kira)

{What do- If you can hit it directly with as much power as a [High Thunder] then it should lose power for a few
minutes.}

Nano abandoned his question and provided information. Good, there�fs definitely a gap I can exploit.

�gEllie, can you hold it down with [Star Magic]? Just for a few seconds?�h

{�gI can.�h} (Ellie)

�g<<That�fs it, I�fve had it!>>�h (Flying fish)

The fish has recovered! Two metal rods come flying out of its sides. They�fre spewing a trail of smoke with a
disturbing whistling-like sound. They�fre coming right at me!

{Block them from a distance!}

�g --- [Aegis] --- [Aegis]�h

Following Nano's instructions, I summon two floating kite shields. The flying rods strike them at the same time and-

*KRAKOOOOOOOOM*

-explode violently. An intense shockwave rattles me down to my bones.

�gAAAARGH!�h (Kira)
There's a sudden sharp pain in my leg! I fall to the ground, unable to stand. My left thigh has a piece of metal
sticking out of it and copious amounts of blood are flowing out!

�g<<Hahaha! I got you now!>>�h (Flying Fish

*BU-DU-BU-DU-BU-DU-BU-DU*

�gKIRAAA!�h (Ellie)

The fish bastard is trying to finish me off! Arm-like, red-hot pieces of metal stop instantly in the air, then drop
harmlessly onto the floor. Ellie's a little further away to my side, arms stretched out in my direction, shaking.

I see, she�fs protecting me.

{Use Ellie�fs recovery item!}

Nano�fs voice snaps me back to reality again. Right! Those things Ellie gave us this morning!

I reach into a pocket and take out the steel syringe. I stab it into the injured thigh. I press the little switch on the end
and feel something cold enter my body. I drop the syringe, grab the metal piece with both hands and pull out.

�gRRRGH!�h (Kira)

That huuuurts! The cool sensation is now spreading through my leg, I feel it wrap around and instantly soothe the
intense pain and heat. The wound closes itself in an instant as if time is running backwards.

�g<<So THIS is how the mighty fall? A bitch protecting a bitch?! Hahahahaha!>>�h (Flying Fish)

*BU-DU-BU-DU-BU-DU-BU-DU*

That fish is cackling madly while attacking me. Ellie is holding on, but I have to- no, there�fs a gap. Right now,
there�fs a gap.

I exchange looks with Ellie, she nods. Even while bleeding, her eyes give off a will that will not bend. That�fs my
girl.

*BU-DU-BU-DU*

I pick up my staff from the ground.

*BU-DU-BU-DU*

Reach out�c

*BU-DU-BU-DU*

Grasp the mana�c

*BU-DU-BU-DU*

Grasp the space and...

�g -- [Blink]�h (Kira)
�g<<What? Where did she->>�h (Flying Fish)

I appear on top of the flying fish, some 30 meters above the ground. My feet slip slightly on the smooth surface.

The barrier blocks projectiles and manifested spells, but raw mana can pass through it. This is the gap.

�g ---- [Discharge]�h (Kira)

I jump off and slam the staff head into the metal as I activate the spell. Bright white-blue tendrils of lightning
instantly envelop the fish. Its bubble-like barrier shines, shivers and dissipates. Black smoke starts spilling out of the
fish�fs underside.

Looks like that one hurt!

I�fm okay since I jumped off, but now I�fm falling toward the ground.

�gEllie! Catc-�h (Kira)

Before I can even finish my sentence, Ellie swings in with her hooks attached to a tree. She catches me with one arm
and safely brings me to the ground.

After quickly making sure I�fm safe, she looks up. We�fre directly below our enemy. Ellie raises her hand
towards it.

*Fwump* *Clack*

The metal hook flies up and attaches itself flawlessly to one of the metal protrusions on the fish's underside.

*Vrrrrrrrrrr*

She�fs pulling herself straight into it with her sword drawn. She swings around and stabs it directly into the
reflective glass-like front.

*Crik* *Cra-crack*

I hear a cracking sounds and see bits of the front fall off, but it's not shattering.

�g<<Got youuu!>>�h (Flying Fish)

Suddenly a bright purple light flashes out from inside it.

�gAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!�h (Ellie)

"Ellie? ELLIE!?" (Kira)

She�fs falling while clutching her head! My body moves on its own and I manage to grab her before she hits the
ground. My arms complain but I ignore them.

Ellie�fs face is covered with blood, she�fs out cold!

�gNano! What�fs going on?�h (Kira)

There�fs no response.
Just like a corpse.

�gNANO! ELLIE!�h (Kira)

I lay her down on the ground and check her condition. She�fs bleeding from the nose all four of her ears! She�fs
not breathing!

The recovery item! I still have one more. I take it out and stab it into her chest and press the button.

�g<<HA! Hahahaha! I got you, you ugly bitch! Hope you bleed to death!>>�h (Flying Fish)

The flying fish cackles madly above me. I don�ft have time to bother with him now!

With a sharp gasp, her breathing returns. Her complexion gets a bit better. Her face twitches, but she�fs not
opening her eyes.

Kira�c Kira... (Ellie)

�gHuh? Ellie? Is that you!?�h (Kira)

Kira!? Yes! I�fm here! (Ellie)

�gEllie! You�fre alive! Are you okay?�h (Kira)

Yes! I can�ft move right now, but I�fll get better! (Ellie)

Relief washes over me.

�gI�fm so glad! Wait, where�fs Nano?�h (Kira)

He broke. I can�ft wake him up right now. But Kira, what about that Fishface? (Ellie)

Fishface? The flying fish! I look up and see it spewing smoke from the side while retreating into the mountain.
He�fs already a grain on the horizon.

�gI won�ft let him get away. Hang tight sweetie! Kelly should be back soon!�h (Kira)

Okay! Go get �eem Kira! (Ellie)

For a brief moment, I felt like a smile broke out on her motionless face.

I stand up and refocus my mind. I�fm still worried about Ellie, but if she says she�fs okay, then she's okay.

Right now, it�fs payback!

�g ------- [Flight]�h (Kira)

My body starts floating. I accelerate through the air by using my mana as fuel. I pump more and more mana into the
spell, rapidly increasing my speed.

Kuh! I'm overdoing it, my mana is draining away! I�fve already used up about half of it today, but I can�ft let that
Fishface escape!
The wind slashes across my face, it burns and my eyes barely keep open, but I�fm catching up to him. He�fs
leisurely floating along, spewing smoke as he goes.

Looks like it still hasn�ft recovered, good. I stop in midair and channel my spell in his blindspot.

" ---- [High Thunder]" (Kira)

The lightning bolt hits it dead on. Sparks and flames gush out from underneath and behind it.

�gWAAH!�h (Fishface)

I hear a scream from inside. More in confusion than pain. I see, I see, he�fs just surprised is he? Well then, let's
hope he loves surprises!

" ---- [High Thunder]" (Kira)

Another one!

" ---- [High Thunder]" (Kira)

Another one!

" ---- [High Thunder]" (Kira)

Screams, sparks and smoke gush out with each hit. Fishface tries to dodge sideways. But it�fs a giant flying lump
of metal, dodging lightning is impossible for you.

Another one!

" ---- [High Thunder]" (Kira)

*BA-KOOOOOM*

That time something gives. A side of the flying fish erupts with an explosion and it starts rapidly falling. Good, I
only had about 3 more shots in me.

The remains of the reflective surface are blown off with a gush of smoke a chair with a person in it flies out, but
starts falling after a few seconds.

Several cloth circles shoot out of the back of the chair. They're attached by a thin rope. The cloths gathers air as it
falls, expanding into a group of domes. The chair's fall slows down to a gentle descent.

The flying fish falls hundreds of meters below, crashing into the ground like the [Fallen Star].

I see, so the driver escaped with his life.

I float over to him and meet him face-to-helmet. He�fs wearing a strange suit, like the one Ellie had on when we
met. I match his falling speed, looks like we have a few minutes to ourselves.

�gYou. You can understand me right.�h (Kira)

�gHiii!�h (Fishface)

He recoils in his chair with a pathetic noise. We're hundreds of meters in the air and he can't fly. There�fs no
escape.

�gCome now. You were working with those lowlifes so surely you can understand me. Right?�h (Kira)

�gYES!�h (Fishface)

He screams and covers his head with his hands. Good. He can understand me. Communication is important.

Now then.

What shall I do with these feelings of mine?

Chapter 56 - Not all sufferers of Tourette's syndrome curse insessantly -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

I don�ft like it. It�fs too quiet. Huh, since when did I get used to things being noisy? No it�fs not that, anybody
would dislike the deafening silence right now.

That one peeping bastard has stopped responding. Nano always said he�fs part of Ellie, so did something happen to
her? What about Red? No matter how much I try calling out, there�fs no response.

Nano told me I�fd be in the way so I got out of there, but I regret doing it. What sort of �gShield on legs�h am I?
I can�ft even defend two happy-go-lucky wives.

Well, one happy-go-lucky and one happy-go-snappy wife. Even if she�fs wearing a mask, that girl is obviously
making a wide grin whenever she�fs breaking people. That�fs not normal!

I�fm no different though. When my blood starts pumping I get a bit crazy too. Like just a while ago, when that 2
meter tall box with legs on the side started spitting metal at me.

It was similar to the weapons the bandits had outside, but much heavier. Like comparing a summer drizzle to fist-
sized hail. Almost exactly like that, actually. Nano was still around to lend a hand. Even though Nano doesn�ft
have any hands.

Go under it and hit it in the back with all you got!

That was the strategy he and Ellie had used to beat these so-called war golems before. It sounded silly, but
it worked. I slid under the thing and used Scrappy�fs [Fire Step] to launch myself straight into its back at full
force. It tipped forward and fell flat on its (metaphorical) face.

The problem was that I went a bit wild and started pummeling it with my maces until it broke. And then it exploded.
With me on top of it. I�fm okay, Scrappy can take a little fire and shrapnel. The cave walls however - not so much.

I look at the cave tunnel ahead of me. There�fs light-enchanted stones lined up on one side, so there�fs plenty of
light.

I really want to go back. But Nano told me to save or beat down anyone still in here, depending on their level of
banditry. My brain is also telling me to focus on the thing I can do, and trust those two with the thing I can�ft do.

Ah, but I really really want to go back, so I turn around. Wall of rocks. Yep, nothing I can do about that. Nothing
that won�ft cause another cave in anyway. Red should be able to clear it up with her magic though.

Well. No way around it, so I might as well go in deeper. I take a final sip from my Slightly Shady hip flask,
emptying it. I put it away inside the armor, next to the Trusty and Sort-of-Trusty flasks I already emptied after
Ellie�fs pep talk in the village.

*CLUNK CLUNK*

My heavy footsteps echo in the cave. Well, not like I had delusions of being stealthy in the first place. Scrappy
moves with all the grace and agility of a minotaur in a pottery store. Which is to say, none.

A little further ahead I see the tunnel bend to the left. There�fs light spilling over from the other side.
It opens up into a sort of common room, this must be the bandits�f home. There�fs bed-like, chair-like and table-
like furniture strewn about. Some animal furs cover the floor and more lighting stones are scattered around the
walls. No people though.

I look around the room and I see a passage on one end. It�fs pretty wide! You could fit a carriage through here if it
wasn�ft blocked off by iron bars. Walking up to it, I see there�fs a big iron gate too. Locked, obviously.

Alright, time for Scrappy to demonstrate its lockpicking skills!

*SMASH* *GROAN* *CRUNCH*

There! Flawless! I toss the iron-ball-that-used-to-be-a-gate aside and enter the room.

Hmm, this is where they keep the good stuff huh? Bags of goods and coins are piled up here and there. I can also see
some weapon racks next to the wall. There�fs four of Nano�fs boxes in a corner, looks like they�fre open.

This�c this is a proper treasury it is! How did those no-good bandits get this much loot?

No, let�fs leave that for later, I�fm here for a different reason. They kidnapped at least 8 women and children, but
I�fve not seen any part of them so far. Either they�fre keeping them elsewhere or they�fve already been sold.

Hmm? I hear some noises behind Nano�fs boxes. I ready my mace and take a few steps.

�gHiiiii!�h (Tiny voice)

A quiet squeal comes out.

�gWho�fs there!? Come out and I won�ft hurt you!�h (Kelly)

There�fs some faint whimpering from around the box. That doesn't sound like a bandit.

But I sure did, didn�ft I? Alright, let�fs try that one again.

�gI�fm here with [Black Flame], a Rank B adventurer team! Me and my comrades are here to take care of the
bandits and help their victims!�h (Kelly)

�gAdventurer?�h (Tiny voice)

A tiny, brown-haired head peeked carefully from behind the metal cube. It�fs a little human girl, about five or six
years old. She�fs covered in grime and looks malnourished. She must�fve squeezed through the iron bars and hid
here.

�gThat�fs right, I�fm here to save you.�h (Kelly)

I crouch down so I can be less threatening, but she pulls back instead.

�gMister adventurer is scary�c�h (Tiny girl)

Right, I almost forgot Scrappy looks a bit intimidating. Especially since I�fm covered in soot, courtesy of that
legged box.

*Tak tak tak tak tak Shuuu Tak*

I fold the maces back into the arms. There�fs no bandits in here and the girl is probably scared of them.

�gSee? I�fm not here to hurt you.�h (Kelly)

�gWoooow!�h (Tiny girl)

She puts her entire head out from behind the box with sparkling eyes. As expected, Scrappy instantly earns the
admiration of the pure-hearted.

*Tak tak tak tak*

The helmet parts in the middle and folds to the left and right, revealing my face. I crouch down again so she can
clearly look at me.

�gI�fm just a dwarf wearing a fancy suit. I didn�ft mean to scare you, sweetie.�h (Kelly)

�g... are the bad people gone?�h (Tiny girl)

�gDon�ft you worry about them, I beat them up real good! They won�ft be hurting anyone ever again.�h
(Kelly)

�gAmazing! Mister adventurer is amazing!�h (Tiny girl)

Geh! Come on, my mask is off! At least stop calling me mister! Ahh I really shouldn�ft take what a child says too
seriously.

�gI�fm Kelly, do you have a name, sweetie?�h (Kelly)

�g... Sophie.�h (Sophie)

�gPlease to meet you, Sophie.�h (Kelly)

I flash my best smile, trying to put her at ease.

{<<Self-repair sequence complete.>>}

{<<Stand by.>>}

Oh! Is that Nano? The voice sounds like Nano, but the words and monotone are weird.

{<<System startup complete.>>}

{<<Initializing personality matrix.>>}

{*KHHHT* Ah that was scary. Ellie? Ah she�fs unconscious, but seems to be fine.}

{�gNano! Thank goodness. I just captured the Fishface guy who hurt Ellie. I�fm dragging him back to where she
is right now.�h} (Kira)

Fishface? And someone actually hurt Ellie enough to knock her out!? Looks like a lot happened over there, but
they�fre fine so let�fs leave that for later.

{Okay, I understand. Kelly, how are things on your end.}

�gWelcome back, Nano. I�fm inside the cave. It�fs safe, but the walls collapsed in the fight.�h (Kelly)

�gKelly who are you talking to??�h (Sophie)

�gI found a kid here, she looks hurt so dig us out fast.�h (Kelly)

{�gNano, you can help Ellie get back on her feet, right?�h}( Kira)

{Leave it to me! She�fll be up and about in no time!}

{�gThen, we�fll head inside as soon as she�fs awake.�h} (Kira)

�gGot it, I�fll be waiting.�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Sophie)

Ah, she�fs back to hiding like a small animal. I forgot she can�ft hear the other side of the conversation. Her big
brown eyes stare intently at me.

�gWhat�fs the matter sweetie?�h (Kelly)

�gWe can�ft get out?�h (Sophie)

�gDon�ft you worry, I just told my friends to come get us. They�fll get us out with magic so that-�h (Kelly)

�gMagic?!�h (Kelly)

Ah, we�fre back to sparkling eyes huh?

�gThat�fs right. My boss is amazing. She�fs the best mage you�fll ever see!�h (Kelly)

It�fs not a boast. Red easily triumphed even over another [Sage]. Well, the king�fs [Court Wizard] might be
different, but I�fve never even seen the guy. I find it hard to believe he can bury a castle though.

Wait, isn�ft that actually incredibly terrifying!? Red�fs mellowed out a bit, but let�fs make extra sure she
doesn�ft sink the capital into the ground.

�gThen, then, then, can she help my big sis!? She�fs hurt!�h (Sophie)

She comes out from behind the box. Her skinny rag-covered body is jumping slightly while she points to somewhere
behind the big metal cube.

�gWhat? Why didn�ft you say so sooner!? Let me take a look!�h (Kelly)

�gAh! Nooo!�h (Sophie)

Sophie stands in my way with arms spread out and a worried look. I guess she�fs conflicted? But Scrappy will hurt
her if I try to move her out of the way by force. These hands can bend iron like it was paper. I don�ft need to
imagine what�fll happen to a little kid if I-

Oh.

*CLANK CLANK* *Tok tok tok tok tok* *Clackaclacka*

I order Scrappy to disarm. The armor on the back folds open and I quickly get out of it. There�fs no bandits around
here and this might be an emergency.

�gIt�fs okay if I�fm like this, right?�h (Sophie)

The girl nods and lets me pass. I look around the corner and notice a girl curled up on the floor. She�fs
unquestionably her sister, they look almost identical, only this girl is a few years older. She�fs also dressed in rags.

The kid�fs unconscious. Her breathing is a bit shallow, but steady. I notice something on her ankle. She was
probably bitten by something venomous.

�gNano, does the metal syringe thing I got from Ellie earlier work on poison?�h

{It should. Why?}

�gThe kid�fs sister was bitten by something, I want to help but I�fm not sure if it�fs goin-�h

{�gKelly! Describe the bite to me!�h} (Kira)

�gJust a sec, it�fs a bit dark in here...�h (Kelly)

I move closer to the sick girl. Her sister is quietly staring from behind.

�gOkay, I can see two small holes, like needle stabs. The skin around is purple, but not swollen.�h (Kelly)

{�gWhere was she bitten? Also what shapes are the holes?�h} (Kira)

�gThe bite is on her ankle. The right one. The holes are�c square? Yeah now that I look closer they�fre not
round, but square.�h (Kelly)

{�gTry lightly pulling her ear.�h} (Kira)

�c huh?

No, this is Red we�fre talking about, right? Rank B adventurer and all that? Surely there�fs a reason for this. The
girl already lying on her left side, so I reach over and gently tug her ear.

�gIdiot!�h (Sister)

What? Is she actually out of it?

�gUm, Red? She just screamed �eIdiot!�f at me�c�h (Kelly)

{�gShe�fs not waking up, right? Try it a few more times.�h} (Kira)

I don�ft get it, but�c

�gBrick-face! Potato-head! Piss-drinker! Horse sniffer! Goblin herder!�h (Sister)

�gRed, she�fs still not waking up, but she�fs still shouting insults at me.�h (Kelly)

{�gDid you get a �ePiss-drinker' out of her?�h} (Kira)

�g... yes.�h (Kelly)

{�gThat settles it, she was bitten by a Devil Spider, a small monster. It�fs placed a curse on her. She won�ft
wake up unless we bring her to a Church of Khamis, but her life isn�ft in immediate danger.�h} (Kira)

I see, so it was a type of monster attack.

�gGood news, Sophie. Your sister is going to be fine. We just need to bring her to a church for healing.�h (Kelly)

�gReally?! I�fm so glad!�h (Sophie)

There wasn�ft a church in the village we left the carriage in. There should be one in the next town, but it�fll take a
day or so to get there. I just-

�gButts!�h (Sister)

�gSophie! Stop that!�h (Kelly)

�gSorry miss adventurer... It looked like fun so I wanted to try it..." (Sophie)
Chapter 57 - It's a child's duty to be curious about things - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

We approach the bandits�f treasury. Kelly said the girls she found were in here. There appears to be a dwarf-
shaped hole in the iron gate. Ellie and I have to bend over slightly but we proceed inside.

We walk for a few more steps before I hear voices up ahead.

�g... and, and then she like, completely catches the [Thunder]! With one hand!�h (Kelly)

�gUwaa! Is-is that true?�h (Tiny voice)

�gI don�ft lie! Red�fs a real monster!�h (Kelly)

�gAnd since when does a raging alcoholic get to call me a monster!?�h (Kira)

I turn the corner and I see Kelly has stepped out of Scrappy and holding one of her flasks and speaking with a little
girl - probably Sophie. I�fm not sure if that�fs proper conduct in front of children.

�gThat would be since you buried a castle! With one spell! And then, and then you blackmailed a noble! With a
smiling face no less!�h (Kelly)

�gUgh! W-When you say it like that�c�h (Kira)

My shoulders drop a little in defeat. I forgot drunk Kelly is way too good at fights. Verbal or otherwise.

�gWow! Isn�ft that amazing!�h (Sophie)

�gIt�fs true. Kira is incredible you know?�h (Ellie)

�gI see, I see. I thought so at first, but it�fs actually like that!�h (Sophie)

�gYep, yep, it�fs really like that!�h (Ellie)

Ellie and Sophie have hit it off instantly. I just wish they wouldn�ft praise me like that while nodding in unison.
I�fm a little happy though.

�g*Cough* So, hello Sophie. My name is Kiressara. This is Ellie.�h

�gHello Kirisara! Hello Ellie!�h

That�fs some high tension, huh? She even fumbled my name, that's kinda cute! Right, we have a girl to save so-

�gWhere�fs your sister, Sophie?

�gBig sis Lara is back there�c�h (Sophie)

She points behind one of the boxes. I go check on her. Yep, that�fs definitely a Devil Spider bite. Her leg is purple
since the spider does have some venom, but all it does is make you itchy for a few days.
The curse it causes is the bigger problem. As far as curses go it�fs a weak one. It forces the victim and they
experience a never-ending nightmare. Pulling on the right ear makes the victim express how strong the curse has
gotten.

It�fs good news one of the things she said was �ePiss-drinker.�f It means it hasn�ft been more than two days
since she was bitten. We should have two or three more days before it gets worse.

***

We finally make it out of the cave. Ellie is holding Lara over her shoulder, being careful not to disturb her too
much.

Since little Sophie has short legs and will slow us down, I�fm giving her a ride on my shoulders. She�fs much too
light though. She�fs practically skin and bones!

{Kira, I�fve found the kidnapped villagers.}

Finally, some good news. They weren�ft inside the cave so we were afraid they were already gone.

{A group of eleven bandits is pulling them along in a cage-like carriage. There�fs eight people inside.}

�gKelly go after them. You�fre in better shape than the rest of us.�h (Kira)

�gHmm?�h (Sophie)

�gGotcha Red. Nano, you better show me the way!�h (Kelly)

She ran off with that completely impossible speed.

�gHuh? What?�h (Sophie)

�gOur friend Nano found the other people those bandits took. Kelly is going after them.�h (Kira)

�gThey took people?�h (Sophie)

�g... weren�ft you one of them?�h (Kira)

�gNo, me and big sis sneaked in here a few days ago and hid with the stores. We were going to steal some of their
food and run away, but she got hurt by a creepy thing and I was too scared to do anything�c�h (Sophie)

Sophie�fs voice trails off, becoming almost a whisper. I see, these girls had it rough. Still, it took a lot of courage
to do something like sneak into a bandit stronghold.

Wait, then they�fre alone?

�gDon�ft you have a family to go back to?�h (Kira)

�gWe have one but�c they threw us out�c�h (Sophie)

�gWhat!? Where was this?�h (Kira)

�gI don�ft remember�c it was a long time ago... Big sis looked after me. She foraged and begged for food. She
always let me eat even if her tummy was grumbling�c�h (Sophie)
I see. You hear about these cases. The Church of Enuri tries, but some kids slip through the gaps. Still, to throw out
little children! What sort of monster is that!

They�fre lucky they had each other to lean on.

�gThat�fs one amazing sister you have there.�h (Kira)

�gYes! Lara is the best big sister ever!�h (Sophie)

Good, her mood�fs returned. Now, what do we do with all these people here.

It�fs been around 30 or 40 minutes since that fight and they�fre starting to wake up. Or faint from the pain of
broken bones.

�gSophie, I need you to get down for a second.�h (Kira)

I pick her off my shoulders and gently let her on the ground. I take my staff out of its sling and start focusing.

�gWhat�fs she doing?�h (Sophie)

�gShh! Kira�fs magic is going to come out!�h (Ellie)

The two whisper about something behind me, but I pay it no mind.

"----------- [Grand Earth Bind]" (Kira)

Rocks formed with magic spring out of the soil and wrap around their arms and legs. They�fre completely bound
and can�ft move even if they wanted to.

�g�gOhhh!�h�h (Ellie + Sophie)

My mana�fs severely depleted by now, but this should keep them still long enough for the villagers to come round
them up tomorrow.

Oh right, I almost forgot.

We take a short walk towards a chunk of ice. This is a one-man prison made out of [Everfrost] magic.

�gHello, Fishface. I want to thank you again for your cooperation.�h (Kira)

The man who hurt Ellie is stuck in never-melting ice. I used this method to confine him after I hunted him down.

Turns out he�fs just a thug with a scary flying fish. Which is now a useless pile of garbage. Much like himself,
actually!

As for his cooperation? He�fs kindly letting me relieve my anxiety from earlier.

*SLAM*

I punch him in the face with my gauntlet. Ah, I feel better. I think I�fm starting to understand why Kelly fights so
much. The drinking is still a no-no, though.

�gUugh! You BIT-�h (Fishface)

*SMACK*

Oh, that was a rock thrown from Ellie. He�fs out like a light with a black eye.

I leave him behind to suffer a bit more. That magical ice won�ft freeze him to death or anything. It�fs not even
cold! That�fs why it�fs �enever-melting�f you see.

***

�gMiss Kira?�h (Sophie)

Sophie calls down from my shoulders as we�fre walking through the mountainous terrain.

She started calling me �emiss Kira�f at some point. It feels a bit uncomfortable, but it�fs better than being called
�eauntie�f or something so I let her do as she pleases. Ellie seems fine with it too, I guess not even she can be
jealous of a little kid.

�gYes, sweetie?�h (Kira)

�gWho was that man in the blue stuff?�h (Sophie)

�gJust a bad man who really hurt Ellie. It�fs my duty to punish him for �h

�gI see.�h (Sophie)

We walk along for a few minutes in silence until Kelly reports her success.

{�gI got the villagers, they�fre safe. We�fre on our way back.�h} (Kelly)

�gWhat about the bandits?�h (Kira)

{�gThey�fre in the cage. I�fm being kind and am pulling them along.�h} (Kelly)

�gGood job Kelly, see you soon.�h (Kira)

{�gSure. Later, Red.�h} (Kelly)

I can finally relax a little. With this we�fve completed all the things we set out to do today.

�gMiss Kira? Why do you and your friends keep talking to people who aren�ft there?�h (Sophie)

Geh, I guess it really looks like this from the outside.

�gOur friend Nano lets us talk even if they�fre far away. It�fs thanks to the special ear cuff we�fre wearing.�h
(Kira)

�gOhh! Can I touch it?�h (Sophie)

She moves her small hands to my ears and feels the metal-like cuff on the right.

�gOh! It�fs there! Is this magic too!?�h (Sophie)

�gThat�fs right, it�fs a special magic Nano uses.�h (Kira)

�gMiss Kira, who�fs Nano?�h (Sophie)

�gNano is our friend, he watches out for us and gives us advice.�h (Kira)

�gI see.�h (Sophie)

She�fs a cute kid, I can�ft imagine what sort of horrible person would throw her out. If I ever find those parents
I�fm gonna-

�gMiss Kira?�h (Sophie)

�gYes, sweetie?�h (Kira)

�gWhy were you really in that cave?�h (Sophie)

Huh. I guess she�fs sharper than she looks. She�fd make a fine adventurer when she grows up!

�gWe were looking for Nano�fs things. We found those bandits had taken them and decided to defeat them. I
guess you could call it a coincidence.�h (Kira)

�gI see... I already thanked Kelly, but it's okay if I thank you too, right?�h (Sophie)

�gOf course.�h (Kira)

�gThank you Kira! Thank you Ellie! Ah, I want to thank Nano too, but I can�ft see him!�h (Sophie)

{Hahaha, what a sensible little girl! Hold on, I'll do her a special service.}

�gOh! Nano says he's going to do something special for you!�h (Kira)

�gEh?�h (Sophie)

I hear a slight hum as Nano's eye golem descends from the sky. It's a white ball that's about the size of a head, with a
big crystal like �eeye�f on it.

It floats gently next to the little girl on my shoulders.

�gHello Sophie.�h (Nano)

�gWaah! It spoke! It flies!? Is this Nano?�h (Sophie)

It can DO that? No, actually, we never needed it before.

�gPart of me, yes. I came here because I heard you had something very special to tell me.�h (Nano)

�gAh! Yes! That is, thank you very much for saving my sister and me!�h (Sophie)

�gYou�fre very welcome! Now, if you�fll excuse me, I have a job to do.�h (Nano)

It flies off back into the sky until we can�ft see it anymore.

�gThat was so cool! What was that?! I want to fly too!�h (Sophie)

Sophie�fs tension is probably soaring higher than that eye golem right now. It�fs pretty adorable. I have a wide
grin on my face without realizing it.

"Kira looks really happy." (Ellie)

"Sophie's a cute kid, I can�ft help it." (Kira)

"Butt-munch!" (Lara)

�g...�h (Kira)

"Sorry..." (Ellie)
Chapter 58 - Buying one's trust isn't the same as earning it - Binary Soul
| Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

�g -------- [Purify Curse]�h (Unknown)

�gAAAAH!�h (Lara)

I awake with a scream. I�fm awake? I�fm awake! YEAAAH! I�fm finally awake! Who�fs awake? This girl!

I sit up on the stone I was laying on and look arou-

�gAre you alright, my child?�h (Old Man)

Geh! There�fs an old man with a stick! And a heavy robe!? Wait, where am I? This isn�ft that damp cave�c

�gWhere am I? What�fs going on?�h (Lara)

�gYou're inside the Church of Khamis in Lutespit, my child. You were afflicted with a curse.�h (Old Man)

Ah, so he�fs a priest! A curse? Guess that's why I couldn't wake up�c But this old man helped me right?

�gThank you for curing me! But�c the fee...�h (Lara)

That�fs right. There�fs a charge for hiring a priest. I need to repay everything that I owe. But I have no money, so
let�fs go with the usual and offer to clean something!

�gIt�fs all right, my child. It�fs been taken care of by the adventurer brought you here.�h (Priest)

Adventurer? Wait, where�fs Sophia!?

�gMy sister? Is she alright!?�h (Lara)

�gDon�ft fret, my child. She�fs outside this room, waiting for you.�h (Priest)

I leap off the altar-looking thing and immediately get dizzy. Waah! I got up too fast! But! Sophie must be worried! I
need to get to her!

The old priest is going off to a corner of the room, probably has things to do. That�fs fine, he has his job and I have
mine!

Huh? I just noticed it, but why am I wearing this dress? Also my hands aren�ft as filthy as always. Someone
dressed and washed me? That's... Not sure how to feel about that.

I open the door and boldly trip on the frame.

�gOof!�h (Lara)

I fall face-first onto the carpeted floor. I�fm still a bit dizzy, but I need to find-

�gBig sis!�h (Sophie)

�gSophie!�h (Lara)

She�fs tottering towards me! I get off the ground and hug her! I�fm so glad she�fs safe! Hmm? She�fs wearing
a cute dress too! Also her face is looking much healthier.

Why?! I look around the stone corridor and see someone standing there, looking at us.

It�fs a woman with fiery red hair. She�fs wearing gray leather armor that looks worn-out and there�fs a shiny
black stick strapped to her back. Also a dangerous-looking gauntlet on her right hand.

�gGood day Lara.�h (Red-haired lady)

�gHow do you kno-�h (Lara)

�gIt�fs Kira! She�fs Kira! She saved us! Big sis, she�fs an adventurer! And a mage! She�fs really amazing!
�h (Sophia)

Woah, sis is way too excited. What�fs going on? She rarely even speaks in front of others. An adventurer? So this
is the one who I have to pay back, huh?

�gMiss Kira, I am in your debt, but I cannot repay it immediately.�h (Lara)

Adventurers, priests, it doesn�ft matter. All the grownups want money for goods and services. They need money to
live. So someone without money like me has no right to complain.

�gNot good enough.�h (Kira)

She takes a few steps closer. She leans forward with a dissatisfied face. I guess she�fs going to make some absurd
demand. But I�fll bear it for Sophie�fs sake!

�gSomeone just saved your life. What sort of attitude is that?�h (Kira)

What? Do you want me to sing your praises!? The only thing you care about is money so don�ft pretend like you
did anything for my sake!

Even if I have to work myself to the bone, I won�ft allow myself to be in your debt! I�fm leaving the instant
it�fs-

�gBig sis, big sis, she wants you to thank her properly.�h (Sophia)

Sophia whispers some nonsense. Thank her? She probably bought us from those bandits! They were super scary you
know, there�fs no way this one lady could do anything to them!

�gUhm. That is�c thank you.�h (Lara)

However, it�fs my sister�fs naive request. It is the correct thing to do. I will follow it, but-

�gThere we go! Now then, let�fs get some food in you! You�fre hungry right?�h (Kira)

She reaches over and grabs my arm!?

�gWhat are you doing?�h (Lara)

�gCome on, sis! It�fs really tasty you know!�h (Sophie)

Huh? Wait, let go of me! Sis why are you helping her and not meeeee!?

***

She ended up dragging me into an inn! And why is there piping hot, delicious, mouth-watering, good-looking, tasty
food here? I see how it is!

*Munch munch*

I won�ft be swayed you know!? She wants to put me in her debt so she can own me!

*Munch munch*

It doesn�ft matter how much you pile on, I won�ft submit! I�fll repay it all and break free from you!

*Munch munch*

�gWHY IS THIS FOOD SO GOOOOOOOD!?!�h (Lara)

I ended up screaming, unable to bear it. There�fs something hot on my cheeks. My tears are flowing without
end�c

*Munch munch*

�gIt�fs so good! It�fs too delicious! *Sniff* Thank you! *Sniff* Thank you!�h (Lara)

I can�ft help it, it�fs been so long since I�fve had a proper meal!

�gWow, you really are sisters! Sophie made the exact same reaction, too!�h (Kira)

She�fs smiling widely at me. Now that I look around, Sophie is also eagerly stuffing herself with both hands.

I see, she managed to get both of us. Now we have to serve her for who knows how long�c

What a dreadful person.

�gHey Red! Oh, if it isn�ft the foul-mouthed big sister!�h (Dwarf)

A dwarf aunty walked up and sat next to me with a stupid smile.

�gWho you callin foul-mouthed, you piss-drinker!�h (Lara)

Wait�c what did I just...

�gHAH! Hahahaha! Listen to her go, Red! Hahahaha!�h (Dwarf)

Ah, my face is heating up! I can�ft believe I blurted out something so embarrassing!

�gIt�fs okay Lara. You�fre just suffering the after-effects of the Devil Spider�fs curse. You�fll go back to
normal in a week or so.�h (Kira)

Devil Spider? Come to think of it, a purple, hairy, many-legged thing did bite me and then run away. I guess it was a
monster? Regardless, my debt keeps piling up.

Well, I�fve eaten their food, worn their clothes and undergone healing at their expense. Time to start working it
off!

�gWhat is it you want from me, exactly?�h (Lara)

�gFirst of all, let us formally introduce ourselves. My name is Kiressara mil Quasse. You can call me Kira. I�fm
an adventurer and a mage.�h (Kira)

�gYou already know this, but I�fm Lara.�h (Lara)

Now that I get a close look at her, she�fs actually very pretty. I�fm a bit envious. Also I just noticed, her eyes are
different colors. The left one is pale blue, the right one a bright red. That�fs rather weird.

�gThis is Kelly Darkhand, an engineer and mercenary. She�fs helping me out.�h (Kira)

She points at the dwarf. Mercenary, huh? I heard they don�ft trust anything but money, selling their loyalty and
honor to the highest bidder.

What a respectable profession! To make money out of something you can't even touch, truly reliable! I always
wanted to be a mercenary!

"Hey. Don't worry about earlier, just a bit of fun." (Kelly)

�gPleased to meet you Kelly. I�fm Lara.�h (Lara)

�gAnd the girl standing right behind you is Ellie.�h (Kira)

Hmm? Right behind? But I didn�ft hear any-

�gWAAAAAAAAH!�h (Lara)

I turned around and saw a face! It was so close our noses almost touched! I didn�ft notice her at all!

�gI�fm Ellie.�h (Ellie)

She backed up slightly! Huh, that�fs�c a cat-person right? I�fve never seen one, but I�fve seen cats! Eyes, tail
and ears, clearly a cat-person. The eyes�c are the opposite of Kira�fs? Red on the left, pale blue on the right.
That's even weirder. They didn't trade eyes or something, right?

Her lower face is covered by a black mask, and she�fs wearing weird-looking all-black armor. And she�fs clearly
got a lot of knives�c

It�fs one of those, right? An assassin, right? Another person hired with the power of money, right?

�gWrong.�h (Ellie)

Huh? What�fs wrong?

�gYou are.�h (Ellie)

I am? What is she saying!?

�gI�fm not hired. I�fm the wife.�h (Ellie)

Ah I see, she saw through me! Such skill! Wait, what wife?

�gKira�fs wife.�h (Ellie)

I see, I see, there�fs a guy with the same name, huh? Must be pretty anno-

�gThat�fs right ~?! Ellie is my sweet wifey ~?! Please don�ft be rude to her okay ~??�h (Kira)

Huh? Why is she so happy when she says those things? And why can I almost see floating ?s?

�gMhm. Kira�fs wife!�h (Ellie)

Eh? What�fs with that proud-looking pose?

�gAaah, now you�fve done it, they�fve started flirting again... �g (Kelly)

WHAT?

***

They let us borrow a room at the inn. Kuh, why do they keep forcing these debts on me! Still, a nice soft bed where
me and Sophie could sleep soundly isn�ft so bad.

Yesterday they said they wanted to take us to their town. I guess we�fll be working there.

�gBig sis big sis! Look!�h (Sophie)

�gYes, Sophie, it�fs very�c nice.�h (Lara)

My sister is pointing at our carriage�c if you can call it that.

It looks completely bizarre and a giant moving stone horse pulling it. That�fs fine, after finding out that two
women married each other, this much is nothing.

***

�gOkay, I�fll bring it back up.�h (Kira)

We�fre here to pick up something, that�fs what they said. But I don�ft see anything around here.

�g ---- [Fissure]�h (Kira)

The ground split open a huge metal box jumped out! It�fs like the ones in the bandit hideout. I wonder how they
even open them?

Wait, why is Ellie smearing her blood on it?

*Bzzt* *Ping*

Ah, it opened. It�fs full of metal people. Wait, those are like the horse, right? Golems, right?

***
And now we�fre under attack. A carriage full of nothing but women and children, of course those filthy bandits
would target us. Still, Ellie�fs here so she can probably get rid of-

�g --[Firebolt] --[Firebolt] --[Firebolt] --[Firebolt]�h (Kira)

Okay, Sophie did say Kira�fs an amazing mage, but sis is a bit naive so I didn�ft believe her. But to single-
handedly fight off 10 bandits before they even get close, I�fll admit she�fs good.

I wonder why she didn�ft use her staff though? I thought mages always use staves.

***

"How can you possibly trust a person you haven't even seen?!" (Lara)

�gAh, but Nano isn�ft a person.�h (Kelly + Kira)

How do these people even function!? No, one of them isn�ft a person in the first place, this is clearly abnormal,
right?

***

Woah! That�fs so cool! The mace appeared out of nowhere! Mercenaries are way cooler than I ever imagined!

�gDerryaa!�h (Kelly)

One swing sent an Orc flying! Scrappy is the best! I want one!

***

*Snap*

�gGYAAAAA!�h (Unfortunate bandit)

Wow, Ellie really snapped that arm like a twig huh? I wonder if she�fll teach me? Self-defense is important. Also
that knife-throwing skill is pretty incredible�c

But I also want to be a pretty and confident mage like Kira. I know I can�ft do both. Or can I?

***

It�fs been a week since I woke up from my curse. I was wrong. I admit that.

These people really do care.

Kira isn�ft just some rich adventurer who solves everything with money. Turns out she�fs really stingy. She even
blackmailed a noble just to get extra coin! It�fs a bit criminal, but that drive to save up money is something I can
really get behind. She�fs more mercenary than the mercenary!

Ellie apparently fell from the sky! She met Kira! And they got engaged instantly! That must be fate, right? It�fs so
romantic! I thought she was scary at first, but she�fs just a bit shy and serious. She�fs also really kind. They all
are, but Ellie is especially kind.

Also that [Star Magic] she showed me wasn�ft very showy, but it was definitely strong. She gave me and Sophie
plenty of rides in the air! It felt like an invisible hand was keeping me from falling, it was pretty fun!

And finally there�fs Nano. The mysterious voice-that-isn�ft-a-person. He said �eHello�f using a floating ball-
like thing. It was a bit cute. But I want to meet Nano face-to-face. It�fs hard to be friends with someone you
can�ft see or hear.

Ellie says we can get cuffs like theirs so we can all hear Nano. But she said they hurt a bit and you can�ft take them
off easily. I think I�fll pass on that. There was also something said about mind-reading but I think that�fs just her
playing around.

�gI�fm not playing around.�h (Ellie)

Yeah, well, try and guess the number I�fm thinking of!

�g31,500.
12.
953 and a third.
11.
12 again.�h (Ellie)

�gOkay okay, I believe you! Just�c don�ft do that, it�fs a bit creepy okay?�h (Lara)

�gSorry, bad habit.�h (Ellie)

Kira believes in family. It�fs something her dad taught her. All my dad ever taught me was that me and Sophie
were unneeded. But this place with Kira, Ellie and Kelly is warm, it�fs safe. It�fs the first time me and sis
haven�ft had to worry about food, clothes or a place to sleep in years.

Tomorrow we�fll arrive at their hometown of Runetap. It sounds like a fun place!

Kira wants to adopt us. She and Ellie promised to give us two sisters a home full of love and smiles. What�fs up
with that? Even I think that�fs childish! Although, I wouldn�ft mind such a home.

I wouldn�ft mind it at all.

End of Act Four - Promises to keep

Finally! It was a long-ass act, but I'm satisfied with it. I hope you guys enjoyed it. There's a bit more coming from
Lara's PoV as they settle in, then we move onto the next random idea! I hope you're looking forward to it! I know I
am!
Side Story - Stalking does not count as a �glong distance
relationship�h - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Receptionist Carla PoV <

I really want a copy of this. I�fll frame it on my wall in pride of place!

Ah but that�fs private information, I can�ft do that. Maybe if I ask her it would be okay?

I know, I�fll ask when she gets promoted again! For now let�fs return it like a proper receptionist.

�gHere you go Ellie!�h (Carla)

I hand Ellie her guild card over the counter. Huhuhuhu, I got to call Ellie�fs name in a casual manner.

�gThank you Carla.�h (Ellie)

Aaaahh! Ellie called me by name again! What�fs this, it�fs almost like we�fre friends!!

This is the best day of my life, I will never wash these ears again!

Ellie is fantastic you know!? She�fs super strong and super kind! She chased all those bullies out of the guild!

They used to harass me all the time! Even though I�fm behind the counter and there�fs glass between us, if they
ever got serious I�fd be caught! It was honestly nerve wracking.

But then Ellie started visiting. She kept teasing them and when they resort to violence, you can clearly hear the
*Snap* followed by the *GYAAAAAAA!*

It was brilliant! A breathtaking performance! Effective too! All the hoodlums properly mended their ways after
mending their bones!

Truly a wise person who understands the hearts of others! And she�fs only a year older than me!

She�fs my idol, I only wish I was that strong!

Ohh, this is something new! Her ears are red and she�fs breathing hard! Is her face red too? At least I think so, she
never takes off her mask.

�g... K-K-Kiraa�c�h (Ellie)

�c oh right, the wife. (monotone)

�gWhat is it Ellie? Your face is awfully flu- Uwaaa!�h (Extra)

Ohh a magnificent body tackle by Ellie! Hey, don�ft dodge her! What sort of wife are you!?

�gC-c-calm down Ellie! We�fre in the guild, remember! Think of the t-t-t-time and place!�h (Extra)

How dare you deny Ellie! I�fm not sure what they�fre talking about but it�fs obviously urgent! Isn�ft it your
responsibility to accept all of her?
�c maybe I should do it?

�gHere and now works for me!�h

�gNOOOOOO!�h (Extra)

Ah, they ran outside with a scream. I must soak in Ellie�fs gallant form with my very eyes!

No, I mean, I�fm worried that they might, uh, embarrass the guild? Yes, that.

I quickly dash outside.

Ellie�fs skillfully closing in on her target! Another magnificent tackle! Damn, a near miss! Oh, another one! And
another!

Wooah what�fs with this amazingly high level exchange? Those are movements only a veteran Rank B adventurer
can pull off! No, they�fre easily Rank A!

Ellie is someone who has brought down a Bone Dragon all by herself, so this much is nothing!

�c well, there were some unimportant extras too, I guess�c

Hey don�ft use a triple barrier like that! That�fs cheating! Gratefully accept Ellie�fs b-b-b-body already!

Ohhh it was magnificently smashed with one blow!

And she got her! As expected of Ellie, truly the fastest scout in town!

She has her target pinned down on the ground! She isn�ft getting shaken off despite the struggling!? What a
formidable technique!

Oh my! She�fs taking her mask off!!!

�c

Th-th-th-th-

THAT�fS ELLIE�fS FACE!?

That�fs illegal! That�fs definitely illegal! There�fs no way that�fs allowed!

Why does she have such a cute face!? It�fs completely unfair!!

Wait, why did she even-

�gMmmmmnnnn!�h (Ellie)

�c

�gMmmppfff!�h (Ellie)

�c

�gMmmmhmmhmmhmm!�h (Ellie)
�c

�gMmmmmwah!�h (Ellie)

�g *Haaah haah haah*�c are you *haaah* satisfied yet? *haaah*�h (Extra)

�gMMmmmm *Slurp* *Lick* *Smack*�h (Ellie)

***

Huh? Where am I?

Ah, I�fm in the guild staff break room.

Why am I- Woah!

I�fm feeling light headed? Did I faint? How come?

Let�fs see, the last thing I remember is�c

*Slurp* *Lick* *Smack*

�c Ellie licking and smacking her lips.

That was�c strange�c I don�ft�c why did�c

This feeling is unfamiliar but�c it�fs not a bad thing�c right?

�c

I wonder if she�fll let me keep some of her blood next time?

***

Is�c is that-

�gGood day Carla.�h (Ellie)

IT IS!

Ahhh I�fm about to scream for for joy! Ellie�fs finally back after all this time! And it�fs a rare occasion where
there are no extras!

She disappeared for a month and a half! I�fve been really lonely the whole time! I felt so down I barely had the
courage to get out of bed! But I did it anyway! Because one day she might come back!

And! She! Did! Kyaaaaa!

Ah no good, no good, I can�ft run wild! I must not embarrass myself here.

�gGood day Ellie! How can I help you today?�h (Carla)

�gI�fd like to turn in proof of subjugation." (Ellie)

Oohh, it�fs another heavy bag this time!

�gOf course, just a minute please.�h (Carla)

I want to keep it! I want to keep them all! But I can�ft, it�fs vexing but I can�ft!

�c

Maybe I can buy them from the guild? I�fll ask the bean counters while they�fre processing the reward.

***

�g-and this is your reward. Please confirm the amount.�h (Carla)

Obviously it�fs all there. I wouldn�ft dare do something insulting like try to cheat Ellie!

�gThat�fs okay. Thank you. Bye Carla.�h (Ellie)

Ah she said it again! I�fm so glad!

�gGood bye Ellie!�h (Carla)

I send her off with a wave and a smile! Good job me! Hahaha�c ha�c

�c

I wonder where she�fs going in such a hurry?

�c

�gBoss I�fm taking a break okay!?�h

I shout towards the back room.

Let�fs follow her and make sure she�fs not in any trouble!

***

So she�fs celebrating? But why in there? That werewolf bar is known as a place where ruffians and hooligans
gather. There�fs even rumors of this one dwarf that wrecks the place every time she visits and even KO�fd a
guard in one punch. That�fs scary!

I wonder if Ellie is okay in there? Those werewolves get pretty nasty when they�fre drunk.

�gGYAAAAA!�h (Muffled scream)

Ohhh! There goes someone�fs arm huh?

I want to peek inside but I can�ft, she�fll know I followed her!

Ah, it�fs already night out!? No good I better get back befo-

�gWell hello there girlie!�h (Silver-haired Werewolf)

Eeeeeeep! Who is that? One of the regulars! No good, nothing good will come from this!

�gThat is�c um.. I�fll be goi-�h (Carla)

Let�fs quickly leave before this gets weird.

�gDon�ft be such a spoilsport! Wanna come in for a drink? I promise you�fll never forget it!�h (Silver-haired
Werewolf)

Why is this fuzzball hitting on me! I�fm human you know! Go find a mutt in a back alley somewhere!

�gTha-that�fs not necessary. I�fll be g-going now.�h (Carla)

I stand no chance, I have to run. Now!

�gWaaait right there! Don�ft be so rude!�h (Silver-haired Werewolf)

Waaah he stood in my way!

�gJust one drink! It�fs great you know! It�fs on the house, trust me you�fll love it!�h (Silver-
haired Werewolf)

NO, get your arm off me! Stay away! SOMEONE SAAAAVE MEEEEEEE!

*Snap*

�gGYAAAAAAAAA!�h (Silver-haired Werewolf)

Huh? HUH!!?

�gHey Frank. Go back home and think properly about what you were doing.�h (Ellie)

�gAAARGH! YEAH! Yeah! Sure Ellie! HHNNNNNRRrrgh that was a good one! Catch ya later! RRrgh!�h
(Silver-haired Werewolf)

�gBye Frank.�h (Ellie)

What�c just happened? That guy with the silver fur just obediently left? After a compound fracture like that!?

�gAre you okay Carla?�h (Ellie)

�gWah! Yes, I�fm okay�c thank you�c Ellie...�h (Carla)

She saved me! I�fm glad! Super glad! I�fm so happy I could die!!

But�c this is wrong! I�fm not worthy like this!

�gEllie, I�fm�c I�fm sorry�c I was following you around�c and then�c�h (Carla)

�gI know. I don�ft mind. Since you�fre a fan.�h (Ellie)

A fan?
...

Ah so that�fs what this is! I see, I just admire Ellie way too much! That�fs what this is about!

�gYes! That�fs exactly it. However! I�fm sorry you had to attack that guy because of me!�h (Carla)

That�fs right! Ellie only attacks in self defense! Or defense of others. Like me! Despite the difference in strength
she never throws the first punch! She�fs so noble and kind!

�gD-don�ft worry about it. Frank just wanted a drinking buddy.

But Frank is too pushy so I have to punish him often.�h (Ellie)

�gI�c see�c�h (Carla)

And since this Frank is a werewolf, he heals too fast and doesn�ft learn his lesson.

�gI�fm going back to Kira now. You be careful. Bye Carla.�h (Ellie)

Ellie walks back into the bar and joins the festivities.

�c

�c

Maybe I can get her to break my arm too?

Then it would heal wrong and she�fd have to take responsibility and re-break it!

Hehehehehe...
Chapter 59 - Be more understanding with student drivers - it's a
terrifying position! - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Act Five - Unity

> Lara PoV <

�gLook girls, you can see Runetap�fs�c walls?�h (Kira)

Wait, why did that turn into a question? This is your home, right? This is where we�fre going to live, right? Surely
you�fd know where it is, so why are we here?

�gKira! There�fs a big hole!�h (Sophie)

Sophie jumps up and down excitedly. I mean yeah, it�fs a hole. It�fs gigantic. It�fs like someone showed up and
scooped out the ground with an impossibly-sized spoon.

�gAh! I forgot! I got carried away with the little balls of adorable and I completely forgot!�h (Kira)

Huh? Forgot what? Where the city was? Also, who are you calling a ball! I�fm not fat, okay?!

�gIt�fs that time of the year! I can�ft believe I forgot all about it! Ahhhh I missed out!�h (Kira)

Kira grabs her head and starts shaking her whole body left and right!

�gKira, Kira, what did you forget?�h (Lara)

I pulled on her sleeve to get her attention. She was getting lost in her own world!

�gAh, right, sorry about that. Once a year the city floats up into the sky and with all the excitement, we missed
it.�h (Kira)

�g...�h (Lara)

�gI see, I see, excuse me a second.�h (Kelly)

*GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG*

�gWow, the city can fly!? That�fs amazing! I want to see, I want to see!�h (Sophie)

Ah, I was spacing out! Sophie�fs sudden outburst helped me snap back to reality. Kelly�fs retreating at full speed
already, though!

�gKira, Kira, why does it fly?�h (Lara)

�gAbout 70 years ago the Baron at the time ordered the people to bury a number of these specially enchanted
Magic Stones all around the city. Since monster raids happened so often, he wanted to have a city-wide emergency
defense system.�h (Kira)

�gOh! So they wanted to fly above the monsters to avoid them?�h (Lara)

That�fs pretty amazing! That way the monsters can�ft hurt the people or the buildings! Ah, it must be a bit
inconvenient for the people but...

�gNope, the idea was to deploy a city-wide barrier so the soldiers and adventurers could fight without worry.
Unfortunately someone made a typo and ordered flying-type stones instead of barrier-type stones.�h (Kira)

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Huh? Barrier? Wait, that does sound a lot more convenient... Also, Kelly is retreating further and further into her
flask! Stay with us Kelly!

�gSince they looked the same they buried them without realizing the mistake. When it was eventually found out,
the enchantments in the stones were already seeped into the soil and rock so it was far too late to do anything about
it.�h (Kira)

�gBut then�c wait, they fly up every year? And only once a year?�h (Lara)

What kind of defensive function is that? Aren�ft they just playing around?

�gThat�fs right. Even though the city can fly, it takes a long time to gather the mana and then activate the spell
so it�fs useless in an emergency. In the end they made it into a tourist attraction.�h (Kira)

Ah, they really are playing around.

�gIt�fs known as the Cloudburst Festival, it�fs quite romantic up there. I wanted to show it to Ellie so bad...�h
(Kira)

�gJust being with Kira is romantic every day, you know?�h (Ellie)

�gAwww, Ellie ~?! You�fre making me blush ~?!�h (Kira)

Those two are a bit too much sometimes. Kelly usually stops them, but she's already flying somewhere on her own...

�gKira, Kira, I want to see! I want to see!�h (Sophie)

�gI�fm sorry, sweetie, we can�ft.�h (Kira)

Sophie jumps up and down while holding Kira�fs shirt, but Kira pats her apologetically on the head.

I understand, I want to see it too, but there�fs no way we can get up there.

�gIt will already be over by the time we get there.�h (Kira)

�g That�fs the issue!?�h (Lara)

�gOf course. See? It�fs already coming down.�h (Kira)

She points up at the sky. A gigantic shadow is indeed coming down from above. It floats gracefully towards the hole
in the distance.

�gWell, since it�fll take a while let�fs get this moving. Kelly! Get us back on the road, okay?�h

�gAye aye cap�fn. C�fmon Cloppy. Let�fs go. We have to. Have to. Thingie.�h (Kelly)

Kelly unsteadily orders the huge golem to pull the cart. We get a good view as the city comes down grandly,
spinning slightly as it aligns itself with the hole.

We�fre a few hundred meters away from where the city, along with the small upside-down mountain it�fs riding
on, slowly enters its spot.

No, it only looks slow from a distance, isn�ft that actually pretty fast?

*GOKOOOOOOOONNN*

With a loud, gut-wrenching sound and a cloud of dust, it basically crashes into the hole!

�gAh, they must have a new guy this year. They missed.�h (Kira)

Missed? What do you mean missed!?

Actually, the ground is slightly tilted to the left and the gate doesn�ft match the road�c

*RRRRRUMBLE*

With another loud noise and cloud of dust, it (relatively) slightly floats back up, turns to the right and then gently
and quietly fit into its proper position. It's like it never even left!

A few minutes later we reach the gates. The guards are already at their position and a long line of people are slowly
leaving the city.

�gGood day Mis- I mean, Mrs Quasse.�h (Guard)

�gGood day Rupert. Is the Captain in? We have two immigrants for processing.�h (Kira)

�gHe�fll be back shortly. You can go up and wait in his office.�h (Rupert)

�gThanks Rupert. Did you have fun with the Cloudburst?�h (Kira)

�gIt was alright, I guess. Looks like you missed it, though.�h (Rupert)

�gCouldn�ft be helped. Well, there�fs always next year.�h (Kira)

Kira talks idly with the guard while he inspects our identifications. Even though they�fre so familiar they still
check, huh? The guards here are a lot more professional than the others I�fve seen.

�gAll done, you�fre clear to enter. You be careful now Mrs. Quasse, the tourists this year are a bit rowdier than
usual.�h (Rupert)

He calls out to Kira as we pass by. Rowdy tourists sound scary! I guess he�fs worried about us since we�fre only
wome-

�gOkay. I�fll make sure to only slightly break their arms.�h (Ellie)

Wait, he�fs talking to Ellie? And what do you mean slightly?

�gI appreciate it, Mrs Quasse. The churches can barely keep up with your business these days.�h (Rupert)

Ah I see. The ones in danger aren�ft us. Or rather, does Ellie seriously generate that many patients!?
***

Kelly went ahead with the cart to unload. Meanwhile, the rest of us were waiting in this office. There were only
three chairs, so Sophie is sitting on my lap. She�fs been getting a bit heav- I mean healthier lately. She's not fat,
okay?

The place is a mess though. A book-case has fallen over and a bunch of papers are all over the place. Looks like that
landing earlier was a bit rough.

The door opens and a scary-looking man in armor walks in. He looks exactly like a bandit though. He could
easily run for Bandit King and find the legendary Piece of One!

�gGood day girls.�h (Bandit King)

�gGood day Guard Captain.�h (Kira)

�gGood day Olboun.�h (Ellie)

Wait, this guy�fs a guard? A captain?

�gSo what happened with the Cloudburst?�h (Kira)

�gSame as always. Mostly. New guy sneezed and choked on the landing a little, but it�fs all good.�h (Olboun)

He walks around us and sits down behind the desk. He looks in my and Sophie�fs direction.

�gAnd who are the two little visitors ya brought today?�h (Olboun)

�gTwo cute kids that we happened to pick up.�h (Kira)

Why did she say it like it was completely by accident? Ah, but it sort of was, wasn�ft it? Not that I mind though.

�gAnd who did ya take them from this time?�h (Olboun)

Eh? Take? This time!? Doesn�ft that make her a criminal!?

Sis on the other hand is happily humming to herself with closed eyes, completely ignoring the situation. That may be
the right answer. Sis is really smart for her age you know?

�gPlease don�ft say it like that. We just found these abandoned kids and want to give them the happiness they
deserve.�h (Kira)

Uuuuu, somehow I get a bit embarrassed when she says it clearly like that. The captain pulls out two pieces of paper
and turns to us.

***

Some 15 minutes later, he stamps and signs the two pieces of paper and puts them in front of us. I take a peek at
them since I�fm curious.

------------------------------------------------------------------
Background confirmation form BG-K

Name: Sophie Corman

Race: Human
Sex: F
Age: 6
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Special features: Way too adorable
Birthplace: Pororoca
Father: Piss Drinker
Mother: Unknown, presumed deceased
Siblings: Lara Corman
Spouse: None
Known affiliations: Mrs & Mrs Quasse
Previous offenses: None
Character evaluation: Good kid
Inspector: Guard Captain Olboun, Runetap
------------------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------------
Background confirmation form BG-K

Name: Lara Corman

Race: Human
Sex: F
Age: 9
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Special features: The bestest sister ever
Birthplace: Pororoca
Father: Piss Drinker
Mother: Unknown, presumed deceased
Siblings: Sophie Corman
Spouse: None
Known affiliations: Mrs & Mrs Quasse
Previous offenses: Minor theft
Character evaluation: Good kid
Inspector: Guard Captain Olboun, Runetap
------------------------------------------------------------------

Wait, why did he put down exactly what was said!? This is an official document, right?

�gMister Olboun, why did you write down those things?�h (Lara)

�gBecause I can. It�fs within my authority as Guard Captain. Like this, that no-good dad of yours is officially a
Piss Drinker, as you so nicely put it.�h (Olboun)

Guh, the after-effects of that curse still haven�ft worn off. But it fits, so I can�ft complain.

�gDon�ft worry about it, as long as there�fs a stamp and �eGood kid�f on it you�fll be fine.�h (Olboun)

�gKira, is that really okay?�h (Lara)

�gIt is. Despite how he looks, he�fs a real capable guard you know?�h (Kira)

�gI see. He�fs capable despite how he looks.�h (Lara)

�gIt�fs true. I was shocked too! Despite how he looks he�fs actually a nice guy.�h (Ellie)

�gI see! Mister was actually really nice! Despite how he looks!�h (Sophie)

Hmm? Why does the guard captain look depressed all of a sudden?

The door opens and the lady we saw on our way in leans in through the doorway.

�gGirls! How many times!? Stop bullying Olboun! He�fs still a guard, despite how he looks.�h (Secretary)

All of a sudden the Bandit King, I mean Olboun, stands up and takes out his sword!

�gThat�fs how it is, huh! My looks are a problem huh? Maybe I should just slice off my face, huh?�h (Olboun)

Wait, what!? Has he gone mad? He�fs pointing his sword at his own head!

�gSimmons! BF-3!�h (Secretary)

Chapter 60 - Adults are afraid of the dark too, they just hide it better
than kids do - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

�gThis is the house?�h (Lara)

Kira said she was taking us to where their- I mean, our, new home. Ellie went off to take care of some chores.
There�fs just one problem.

�gIsn�ft it a bit small for five people?�h (Lara)

From the outside it looks like a one-story, three-room house. You�fd barely fit two people in there, five would be
crowdy.

�gBig sis, I�fm sure it�fs enough... �g (Sophie)

Sophie, who�fs holding onto my hand, quietly reminds me. It�fs a house, it�fs got a roof and it has walls. It
looks a bit rickety, but it�fs better than using old crates for shelter. I guess... I just uselessly got my hopes up.

�gDon�ft you girls worry, this is just the formal address.�h (Kira)

�gWhat�fs a formal address?�h (Sophie)

Sis tilts her head in confusion. I�fm not too sure what that means either.

�gWe don�ft live here, it�fs just a place for people to send letters. Our real home is outside the city.�h (Kira)

�gHuh? Then why did we even come here?�h (Lara)

�gYou�fll see. Inside you go, come now.�h (Kira)

Kira ushers us inside. It�fs a bit dusty and there�fs no furniture. There�fs an ominous looking stone archway
though. It�fs about the size of the doorway and there�fs a pedestal as tall as I am.

Kira walks up to it and puts a hand on the pedestal. The stone blocks start glowing with a bright green light.

�gDragons are really scared of apples.�h (Kira)

Apples? What?

*OWOOOOONNN*

A big green circle fills the archway! It seems to swirl around for a few moments, but then reveals entirely different
scenery behind it.

�gThis is a [Gateway], it�fs a magic door into our real home. Since it�fs far away, we use this to make
things convenient.�h (Kira)

Wow! That�fs amazing! What�fs with this weird pulling on my skirt though?

Ah, Sophie has hidden behind me while I was staring in amazement. I think the strange noise scared her.
�gCome on sis, don�ft be scared. We�fll enter together, okay?�h (Lara)

�gO-Okay!�h (Sophie)

I squeeze her hand a bit tighter and we leap through the doorway together. I instinctively close my eyes! It was
pointless though! I didn�ft even feel anything. It�fs exactly like walking through a door.

�gYou distrust me that much, huh?�h (Kira)

Eeep!

�gNot at all! It was just surprising! That�fs all!�h (Lara)

�gFufufufu, don�ft be so nervous. Come now, I�fll give you the tour!�h (Kira)

*Clack clack clack clack*

Hmm? Now that I calmed down I hear strange noises from all around.

�gWhat�fs with all the spiders!? Nooooo! They�fre coming this way! Save me Kiraaaa!�h (Lara)

I hide behind the most reliable person around! Don�ft let them come near meee!

�gOh my, these aren�ft spiders. They�fre Nano�fs golems.�h (Kira)

Huh? Golems? Like the flying ball thing? I peek out from behind Kira�fs legs. They just look like spiders, but their
white, smooth shells make them a bit less scary. The only problem is they�fre almost as tall as me!

�gDon�ft be afraid Lara. These things aren�ft even alive, they just do the heavy lifting around here.�h (Nano)

Ah, Nano�fs ball-like thing came down!

�gGo on, give them a hug! They won�ft bite. They don�ft even eat!�h (Nano)

Really? I look at them again. The head has several big glass-like things and some bits stick out, but there�fs no
fangs or mouth. I warily reach out a hand at place it on the white golem�fs head.

It�fs�c weird. It�fs not fur or leather, it�fs not metal either. It�fs hard and smooth and warms up quickly from
my touch.

�gBig sis! Look!�h (Sophie)

I look at Sophie ride them around like miniature horses! That�c looks like fun�c I�fm still kind of scared though.
I never liked spiders. Bunch of piss-dr- I mean, disgusting things.

�gWell, I hope you get used to them soon. Rest assured they never go inside the tower other than to clean every
few days.�h (Nano)

All the spiders shuffle away, back to doing what they were doing. Except the one giving sis a ride. Ugh, that does
look like fun�c maybe later.

***
What a huge place! There�fs five floors in that tower and each of them is more spacious than that house from
before!

The ground floor has a dining table and lots of chairs and sofas and rugs and pillows and pretty paintings!
Apparently everything in here was made by Nano! Even the squiggly pictures! They don�ft make any sense but
they�fre colorful and mysterious so they�fre fun to look at!

Half of the first floor is going to be for me and Sophie! There�fs so much room! And the beds are amazing!
There�fs even an indoor toilet and a small bath! I almost feel like a princess!

Kelly�fs room is on this floor too, but Nano says she barely uses it.

The second floor has Ellie and Kira�fs bedroom! It�fs a bit like ours, but there�fs a huuuuge bed in it! It�fs
wide enough to fit 6 people! There�fs also all sorts of books and weird-looking things on the walls!

The third floor is a storage room. No, treasury is more accurate! All sorts of food and other stuff are there. Even a
bunch of sleeping white spiders which I silently hope will never wake up!

The fourth and final floor was Kira�fs research room. Here she practices magic! I want to see but she forbade us
from going in because it�fs dangerous. They said the same about the basement where Nano and Kelly work. I'm
really curious about that too, but I'll be a good girl and will keep away from both places!

***

The outside is almost as big as a village by itself! It�fs like a mansion! There�fs white spiders everywhere though.
Apparently they act as guards. I don�ft like the big black wall, it looks pointy and creepy�c

There�fs also a vegetable garden, orchard and even a flat area to practice! Oh and a flowerbed! It�fs pretty and
smells great!

Nano served us dinner a while ago. It was much tastier than the inn food we had on the way here! There was so
much meaaat! And the bath was warm and pleasant and forget princess, this must be how a queen lives!

It�fs been an exciting day so me and sis are a bit tired. We go into our room and prepare for bed. Kira, Ellie and
Kelly went into town to celebrate their safe return. It's just us and Nano�fs golems.

Me and sis put on our brand new pajamas. Mine are yellow and hers are pink. They�fre really soft! Nano said he
made them while we were on our way back! Nano also made all the furniture and even the tower!

Ah, no good, I�fm getting excited again! I�fll never get to sleep like this.

I lie down in the big bed and Sophie climbs in with me. She has her own but she�fs probably nervous about
sleeping alone. I am too, to be honest. We�fve only had each other to depend on and had to hug close like this for
warmth every night.

�c

This is the first time we�fve been apart from those people since we met, isn�ft it?

�c

Kira , Ellie and Kelly are coming back, right?

***
The door to our room opens slowly. I jump up in surprise and stare at it. It�fs Kira and Ellie! They came back!

�gUWAAAAAA!�h (Lara)

Tears start leaking from my eyes the instant I confirm their faces. Why can't I stop them!?

�gLara? What�fs wrong!?�h (Kira)

Kira runs up to the bed in a panic, but-

�gI was so scaaaared! *Sniff Sniff* The room is big and dark and feels lonely and I thought you *Sniff* you *Sniff*
you wouldn�ft come back so *Sniff*�h (Lara)

�gOh, sweetie, come here...�h (Kira)

Kira sits down next to me and hugs me from the front. I let out muffled sobs while burying my face in her chest. I
feel Sophie�fs tiny arms wrap around me from behind. Ellie is also sitting on the bed, gently stroking my head with
a kind smile.

�gWe�fre not going anywhere, okay?�h (Kira)

�gSee!? I told you they�fd be back! Big sis you dummy!�h (Sophie)

�gThere, there�c�h (Ellie)

The strange room which felt so empty and dark just moments ago now feels like the safest place in the world.

So this is what a family is supposed to be like...

***

�gHee hee hee, big sis was crying so much!�h (Sophie)

�gSophie please stop that! It�fs embarrassing! Besides you were scared too!�h (Lara)

�gI didn�ft cry though. Maybe I should be the big sister?!�h (Sophie)

�gOoooh, getting awfully brave all of a sudden huh? Okay! Then you can sleep alone tonight!�h (Lara)

�gUmm�c UMM!�h (Sophie)

Huhuhu, she�fs panicking! Time for the final blow!

�gSince your big sister Lara is a crybaby she will snuggle with Kira and Ellie where it�fs safe and warm!�h
(Lara)

�gI�fm sorry! Big sis! Please don�ft leave meee!�h (Sophie)

�gLara! Stop teasing your sister and eat your breakfast!�h (Kira)

�gUrk! Okay�c�h (Lara)

Sophie started it, but somehow I'm the one who got yelled at.
That sudden fear I had last night was much worse than when I was worried about food or shelter. It's no good, I have
to get stronger! Those three may need to leave on a job and be gone for days! I can�ft be selfish like that all the
time!

�gLara, kids are supposed to be selfish.�h (Ellie)

�gPlease stop doing that!�h (Lara)

�gSorry�c�h (Ellie)

�gIs Ellie doing that thought-stealing thing again?�h (Kelly)

�gYes! It's really creepy! And strange!�h (Lara)

Kelly cuts into the conversation as I reach towards the boar bacon. I take a formidable stack from the big plate in the
middle and put it on mine. Having meat for breakfast is the best!

�gWhy don�ft you just get Nano to help?�h (Kelly)

�gBut�c those ear cuffs look painful and...�h (Lara)

�gYou know it doesn�ft need to be ear cuffs, right? Those are mostly there for Nano's sake. If it's for keeping
Ellie out of your head, you just need some of the special stuff they're made from.�h (Kelly)

�gHuh? Really?�h (Lara)

�gThat�fs right, it just needs to be near your head. Oh I know, how about we make you a hair clip?�h (Kelly)

�gOhhh! Can you do that?!�h (Lara)

�gOf course! Anything you want me to put on it?�h (Kelly)

�gUm�c Oh! Can you make it look like Scrappy?!�h (Lara)

Kelly and Scrappy are just way too cool! Just remembering Scrappy in action gets me fired up!

�gHohoho, you have some good taste there young Lara! Alright, leave it to me!�h (Kelly)

�gI want one with flowers!�h (Sophie)

�gSure thing kiddo, I�fll make you the cutest little marigolds you ever seen!�h (Kelly)

�gYay!�h (Sophie)

Sis throws her hands up in joy while Kelly storms off into the basement. I can�ft wait either! I�fve never had an
accessory before! But! I too want cute things! And Scrappy is pretty cute! Er, once you wash off the monster bits...

�gHuh? Nano, it�fs just the material?�h (Kira)

Ah, Kira and Nano are talking now.

�gSo when you were sleeping back then, they should�fve kept blocking Ellie�fs [Star Magic], right?�h (Kira)
�gAh, that�fs right!�h (Ellie)

This conversation has nothing to do with me, so let�fs do my best to ignore it and focus on this bacon! It�fs not
going to defeat itself!

*Nom nom nom*

So goooood!
Chapter 61 - No matter how happy it is, an adoption is always preceded
by tragedy - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�g�gGood day, Your Lordship.�h�h (Ellie + Kira)

�gGood Day, Mrs & Mrs Quasse.�h (Baron Luron)

The baron called me and Kira back to his house again.

He has another personal commission.

I hope this meeting won�ft take long.

We have important things to do today.

The maid comes by and brings us tea and biscuits again.

�gFirst of all, allow me to congratulate you on your marriage.�h (Baron Luron)

�gThank you, Your Lordship.�h (Kira)

Kira�fs face seems to go full bloom whenever people say that.

I�fm the same, though the mask hides it.

�gAllow me to get right to the point. I want to hire [Black Flame] to help construct a paved road through the Eagle
Forest to the south.

The highway leading south out of the city has to go around it, but if we can build a road through that forest it can
reduce travel time to and from the Capital by a week.�h (Baron Luron)

�gForgive me for saying this, but isn�ft such a route going to be dangerous?�h (Kira)

�gNormally yes, but thankfully your efforts have greatly thinned out the monster population inside that forest.�h
(Baron Luron)

That�fs mostly Nano�fs drones though.

The first few weeks when we landed the monsters kept throwing themselves at our house.

Constructions drones weren�ft meant for combat like that, so me and Kira had to help them out.

We can�ft let them break our precious drones, after all.

�gThe forest is still far from safe. There are still nests of goblins and trolls throughout the area.�h

�gThis is so, but I�fve already spoken with the Guild about this and they have assured me that Rank C
adventurers can safely escort travelers and merchants. This will make the trip more expensive, but it will still halve
the travel time. Many merchants would leap at this opportunity.
So with this road established, the merchants can secure profit faster, the city gets more tax, adventurers get more
work and the forest will become even safer as the monsters are culled by patrols.�h (Baron Luron)

Is this guy a genius?

What sort of �geverybody wins�h situation is this?

I thought he was just a nosy pervert, but is this guy actually good at his job?

Don't be mistaken though.

His thoughts are definitely nosy and perverted.

He just happens to be a good statesman.

This and that are unrelated.

�gI see Your Lordship has given this a lot of thought. Then are we to guard Your Lordship�fs people?�h (Kira)

�gNot exactly. The city�fs engineers are busy reconstructing the west quarter, so I want [Black Flame] to oversee
the road construction directly. The city will provide the materials and manpower.�h (Baron Luron)

�gBut Your Lordship, surely this falls outside our area of expertise?�h (Kira)

�gDoes Lady Quasse not have excellent engineers under her employ? I seem to recall an incident where an
impressive two-story townhouse sprung up literally overnight on your property.�h (Baron Luron)

He must mean when Nano and Kelly rebuilt the house we had in town.

It�fs because Sophie and Lara can�ft use the [Gateway] by themselves.

So whenever we�fre away on a job they�fll live in the city.

That way they can make lots of friends to play around with and won�ft feel as lonely.

Kira objected at first, she wanted to stay home with them and never work again.

I had to sternly remind her not to ignore her responsibility as a provider for our family.

That sort of behavior is something I cannot allow.

Since I�fm the wife.

Kira has no reason to worry since Nano is there.

The all-purpose androids we got during our box hunt will be taking care of them.

They even wear fancy black butler uniforms, it�fs something Nano insisted on.

Also, Esteemed Father can drop in every now and then to check how they're doing.

�gThen, the reward?�h (Kira)

Kira�fs eyes instantly turned sharp.

�gOfficially it will be treated as a standard Rank B escort commission with appropriate compensation. However,
since it is a special case I am willing to listen to any reasonable request [Black Flame] might have.�h (Baron
Luron)

�gThen-�h (Kira)

�gAs long as it�fs not about money. The city is a bit strapped for coin at the moment.�h (Baron Luron)

The baron instantly cuts off Kira.

He shot her down before her suggestion could even be heard!

�gUnderstood, however I must insist we consult with our engineers before accepting this job.�h (Kira)

�gI see, I do not mind. But since this is an important matter, I will expect your reply within the week.�h (Baron
Luron)

�gOf course, Your Lordship.�h (Kira)

We get up and exit the room so the baron can worry about his next meeting.

I make sure to leave an autograph with the maid from earlier.

She�fs really happy about it since she�fs part of my fan club.

Clara from the guild somehow ended up making such a thing.

It has over 200 members by now.

Although, somehow I�fm under the impression they�fre all women.

They look out for me and Kira from afar, it�fs really nice of them.

Therefore, something like an autograph is no big deal as thanks.

The maid wanted to ask for one earlier, but couldn�ft.

Something like that would be unprofessional and rude to the baron.

***

As soon as we left the baron�fs mansion, Kira called Kelly on the Nanophone and explained the request.

�gSo, what do you think?�h (Kira)

{�gI dunno Red. I�fm a military engineer, not a civil one. That house was all Nano�fs doing.�h} (Kelly)

{I do know several methods of road construction, so it�fs possible.}

�gHow does Nano know so much about everything?�h (Ellie)

I mean, Nano has always been really smart.

But ever since we came here, Nano is really showing off a lot of skills.

They weren�ft necessary before we met Kira so Nano didn�ft have a chance to use them until now.

�gEh? Even Ellie doesn�ft know? I just assumed it�fs because Nano has lived long and seen much.�h (Kira)

{Unfortunately it�fs not so simple. Let�fs just say I have a forbidden tome of knowledge with me.}

{�gHey! Don�ft go around saying ominous things like �eforbidden knowledge�f!�h} (Kelly)

{No no no, the [Tome] is forbidden. The knowledge inside is vast, but it�fs perfectly fine.}

�gWhat sort of distinction is that�c forget it. Just tell the girls to get ready, we�fre on our way to pick them
up.�h (Kira)

That's right, today is special.

It�fs about Sophie and Lara.

Since their father was still alive, we had to send a letter to the town of Pororoca.

Something about the Guard there verifying the girls were indeed mistreated.

We sent that letter through the guild about three weeks ago.

Today we finally got a reply from them, but got dragged into the baron�fs office when we went to pick it up.

Now that the meeting is over, we opened the reply - it said the claims were true.

So today we�fre going to officially adopt Sophie and Lara.

We have to do some paperwork and then a small ceremony at the Church of Enuri.

They handle matters of orphans and adoption, after all.

***

�g-I hereby proclaim that Sophie and Lara have joined the household of Quasse. Henceforth, they shall be known
as Sophie mil Quasse and Lara mil Quasse. May this household be blessed by the light and warmth of Enuri.�h
(Esteemed Father)

It was a quick ceremony, it barely lasted a few minutes.

All four of us just stood in the middle while some words were said and some arms were flailed about.

*CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP*

Most of my fan club was in attendance and they all started clapping in approval.

Clara brought them when she found out about the event.

Sophie and Lara were surprised that so many people were here at first.

They were worried because they didn�ft dress up properly and came in their everyday clothes.
Sophie was wearing a simple, beige one-piece that could be seen anywhere.

She looked just like any other six-year old girl you'd see on the street.

Well, I think her brown pigtails made her look way cuter than the rest of them though.

Her big sister on the other hand wore a shirt and trousers.

She likes wearing her hair short and gives strangers mean looks.

The way she behaves doesn�ft help either.

Her outbursts and general atmosphere make her seem completely like a rowdy young boy.

And then she gets offended, despite insisting we cut her brown hair short.

Honestly, how come she�fs three whole years older than Sophie, but still comes off as the more immature one?

I honestly think both of them are the best girls in town, though.

Clara agrees with me, so it�fs not just me saying that, either!

When the kids understood that Clara and her friends were here to cheer us on, they got really happy.

Clara is a really kind person after all, I�fll need to properly thank her later.

Oh good, the applause is finally dying down a bit!

I gently nudge Lara and Sophie�fs shoulders.

They look up at me, nod in response and move closer to Esteemed Father.

�g�gThank you grandpa!�h�h (Sophie and Lara)

The girls give their thanks in a cheerful voice while raising their arms towards Esteemed Father.

It�fs a special surprise I helped them train for over the last few days.

Esteemed Father is deeply moved as expected.

He already met them weeks ago, but the �ggrandpa�h was super effective.

As usual, preparation was important to success.

He wants to play with them right away, but his keep him from doing that.

�gAh, my little Kiressara finally has children of her own!�h (Esteemed Father)

Tears well up on the corners of his eyes.

I guess he�fs way too excited and can�ft help it.

�gFather, please contain yourself. We�fll all celebrate later so be patient.�h (Kira)

Kira sternly reprimands him to behave himself.

He still has work to do and can't play with us right now.

I wonder if he�fll be fine with that sorrowful expression he�fs wearing.

The rest of us exit the church and head back to our house.

We calmly walk down the street.

Somehow the tension from earlier seems to be a lie.

It feels exactly the same as yesterday, it�fs strange.

No, perhaps it�fs as expected, these two are already a part of-

�gAh!�h (Sophie)

�gOops!�h (Ellie)

Sophie trips on something and starts to fall, but I instantly catch her with [Telekinesis].

Good, looks like she wasn�ft hurt.

I gently float her up to me so our eyes meet and reprimand her.

�gSophie, that was dangerous. Be more careful, okay?�h (Ellie)

Her surprised face turns serious.

�gOkay! I promise!�h (Sophie)

Such a good girl.

�gThank you for catching me mommy!�h (Sophie)

�gGuh!�h (Ellie)

�gMommy, can you make me fly too!?�h (Lara)

An attack on two fronts!

Critical damage sustained, communications are out!

We have no chance of victory, surrender immediately!

�gWeee!�h (Sophie)

�gYaaaay!�h (Lara)

Ah, I�fm already giving them both an air-ride with [Telekenisis].

Well, it�fs fine.

I float and spin them around me as they giggle pleasantly.

�gEllie! What are you doing!?�h (Kira)

Kira�f s looking at me with a pout, but I don�ft know why.

�gI�fm playing with our daughters. I�fm being careful, so don�ft worry.�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs not the point here!�h (Kira)

I see, I see, it�fs like that.

�gWait wha- Stop that!�h (Kira)

She was jealous because she was missing out.

So I give her a ride too.

�gNoooo! Hahaha! Ellieee! Put me dooown!�h (Kira)

Kira has such a wide smile on her face despite her complaints.

That�fs how I know she�fs having a lot of fun right now.

Obviously, I�fm being extra careful with all of them.

I�fm handling them more delicately than the time with the radioactive material, you know?

This much is only natural.

Since I�fm the mom.

No matter how pleasant something is, I won�ft allow it if there�fs any danger.

Since I'm the mom.

I said it twice.

Because it's important.

Chapter 62 - Performing too well at your job is almost worse than
performing poorly - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

The city of Runetap.

Today as well it kept bustling with an amount of energy unseen elsewhere. The peddlers were peddling, the
adventurers were adventuring, the smiths were smithing and the City Guard were doing paperwork. They also
guarded, but that was more of a side-job.

In the midday sky far above, a lone figure floated ominously. Although it looked human at first glance, a second,
maybe a third one, would reveal this is not the case. It was a 2 and a half meter tall giant. His muscles bulged
powerfully under a dark red robe, which fluttered forebodingly in the wind. His skin a sickening green, his eyes a
deep black abyss, his mouth a cave of knife-like teeth. Seven ominous horns sprouted from his forehead and curved
upward, resembling a crown.

This man, no, this creature�fs identity was the Dark King, Zublos. Sealed millennia ago for his horrendous crimes
against the world, he had finally broken free of his chains and would enact his revenge upon the humans. He thought
wiping out the stain of a city below him would be a trifling matter, but it would not satisfy him.

He wanted them to taste the same things he had felt during all those eons he was sealed. A world devoid of sound or
light. A bottomless pit of despair that drives one mad. Just the thought of all the things he was about to do made his
mouth curl into a dark grin.

Having basked in anticipation long enough, he flew downwards and descended on the city like a dark comet. He
stopped some fifty meters above the ground, and let out his words.

HEAR ME, PUNY MORTALS!

A powerful voice that gripped the hearts of men and beasts alike.

I, THE GREAT AND MIGHTY ZUBLOS, HEREBY DECLARE YOUR WORTHLESS LIVES
AS FORFEIT!

He would rebuild his Dark Empire and once more plunge the world into war and misery.

THOSE WHO WISH TO SERVE MAY KNEEL! THOSE WHO WISH TO DIE-

�gShut it!�h (Middle-aged man)

*SMACK*

A brick hit him squarely in the face. His head recoiled while the area around his left eye turned a deeper shade of
purple.

WHAT INSOL- *SMACK*

�gDon�ft scream like that in the afternoon!�h (Elf woman)

This time it was a ceramic flower pot to the temple. With the flower still in it. It shattered, leaving a wet clump of
dirt stuck in his horns.
�gMoron!�h �gI�fm trying to focus!�h �gGo home!�h �gLet me sleep!�h �gLousy bum!�h �gButt-
faced bastard!�h �gUgly!�h Baldie!�h �gPiss drinker!�h (Citizens of Runetap)

Insults kept pouring in at the same rate that small objects assaulted him. Stones, dinner plates, bottles, hammers, old
vegetables and more gradually turned his face bloody. The final blow was a well-used blood-stained mug. It expertly
ricocheted off his front teeth before falling back into its owner�fs hand.

On this day the Dark King learned that one does not simply invade Runetap. He would have also learned what it�fs
like to fall 50 meters and crash into the ground like a sack of potatoes if he wasn�ft out cold.

�gAlright folks, that�fs enough. Julius, disperse the crowd. Gently this time! Hastings, go get an I-10 form ready.
Lindon, go with Hastings and grab a pair of [Shackles of Eternal Damnation] from my office. The red ones.�h
(City Guard sergeant)

The City Guard started moving with practiced ease, cleaning up the scene and apprehending the suspect. It took less
than 10 minutes to completely erase the threat of Dark King Zublos and for the city moved on with its Tuesday.

In the meantime, and completely unrelated to the minor disturbance, a road was being built right through the middle
of the southern forest. Normally a stable, safe and well-paying job, even if it was hard and dull work. But the
laborers found that the supervisors employed by the Baron had completely betrayed their expectations.

The first surprise was Kiressara mil Quasse, a Rank B adventurer, leader of [Black Flame] and also a [Sage]. She
would use earth magic on a large scale, changing the very landscape as if on a whim. Trees, bushes and stones were
forcefully ejected from the ground. Then the dirt would be packed tight and prepared for the laborers to lay the
cobblestone. This one girl did the job of over 50 men without losing out in speed.

Second was Nano, an engineer under the employ of [Black Flame]. This unknown figure perplexed and awed the
experienced laborers. A calm voice that gave concise orders. A pair of calculating eyes that could discern mistakes
almost immediately. A steady hand that could swing a hammer as only veterans can. A sharp mind that knew the
route and terrain without once checking a map. Truly, working under such masterful direction was a joy in and of
itself.

Nano had never once revealed his face. Or was it her face? The voice was oddly neutral, making it hard to judge
gender or age. Nano never once took off that almost featureless white mask or the hood covering it. Even the clothes
hid all skin and obscured the figure. In truth, it was to disguise the all-purpose android body that Nano had retrieved
recently. Since Nano�fs skill was without question, such details were actually unimportant to the simple workers.

Third was Ellie mil Quasse. Also a Rank B adventurer and the �gbetter half�h of [Black Flame]. The one in
charge of security. Although her black-clothed slender silhouette was scarcely seen, there was no doubt to her
effectiveness.

The chorus of hammers beating cobblestone into the ground should have lured all sorts of monsters into attacking
the site. Yet not even a single goblin had appeared. Only intermittent screams and gurgles could be heard in the
distance, and Ellie would emerge briefly from the dense forest with fresh blood dripping from her beautiful black
sword.

Fourth, although not present, was Kelly Darkhand, a dwarven mercenary and military engineer. She was back in
Runetap, supervising the logistics and materials. Large stones were expertly cut into cobblestone bricks before being
loaded onto carts and ferried to the build site.

Unfortunately the baron had underestimated the speed at which the materials were used up and had not prepared the
full amount in advance. As a result, there sometimes would be delays until more raw materials would arrive to be
processed, so the dwarf in question would often be found in bars. �gBeing sober won�ft make the stuff arrive any
faster!�h was repeated over and over during such periods.

Finally, and perhaps most unexpectedly, were the two small children. Two sisters known as Sophie and Lara,
adopted daughters of the Quasse household. They generally played around and stayed out of the way, but would
often bring refreshments and snacks to the resting workers.

The two girls�f smiling faces and cute appearances would heal the soul and motivate the mind. There was a matter
of one drunk laborer suffering a broken arm, though. He fell down some steps, you see. No relation to the two girls
at all.

Needless to say, the work progressed at a blistering speed. The project was given a deadline of one month, a tight
schedule for such a distance. On flat ground, that is. The rough terrain and hostile environment would make this an
impossible target. Yet barely a week into the job, the road was already halfway there. If this project went on at this
pace, it would be way ahead of schedule and considerably under budget.

Once completed, it would allow carriages and wagons to pass through the forest in as little as three days before
getting back on the old highway. If they kept going south-west along the highway they�fd reach the Royal Capital
in three or four more days. The current route which circled the great forest and the mountains surrounding it was
easily twice the distance.

In truth, the members of [Black Flame] could work at a much more leisurely pace, but it was their goal to make a
good impression on the Baron. They were promised a unique reward - a favor from a noble. That favor was
necessary to solve a major problem.

[Black Flame] spent a lot of its time traveling. The case of retrieving boxes was a prime example. The two mothers
couldn�ft bear to be away from their new daughters for too long, so a solution was necessary. They had to obtain
the fastest mode of transport available in this world - a flying creature.

Tamed monsters like wyverns or gryphons could fly at speeds many times exceeding horse-drawn carriages. The
first step in owning one was obtaining a Flight Badge. Those were strictly regulated by the crown and nobility - not
just anyone could be trusted with a bird�fs eye view and unobstructed freedom. This is why the baron�fs favor
was important.

It�fs true that Nano and Ellie could put together a flying vehicle, but they�fd still need the Flight Badge if they
didn�ft want to be shot down from the sky. The Badge itself is a magic item which emits a unique signature that be
confirmed at a large distance. If someone or something flew near a city without owning one, they�fd be shot down
immediately. The issue of fuel was another problem entirely.

In the end, the Quasse family (and friends) decided to collectively flex their metaphorical muscles and show off a
little.

> Ellie PoV <

�gEighteen days, I must say I�fm very impressed.�h (Baron Luron)

�gI am glad Your Lordship approves.�h (Kira)

Mission accomplished!

Well, if we wanted to seriously show off, we could have Nano do it in ten.

Those �ggolems�h are pretty hard workers, after all.

But Kira said to stretch it out so that we get a larger compensation.

It took a while, but since the whole family was there it was fun.

�gSo, about the special reward I promised. A Flight Badge is a bit difficult, but not impossible. I can only send a
request to the capital on [Black Flame]�fs behalf, but whether it�fs accepted or not is out of my hands. We�fll
know the answer in a few weeks.�h (Baron Luron)

�gI understand. Thank you, Your Lordship.�h (Kira)

Kira bows slightly and I follow suit.

The baron signals we are free to leave so we stand up.

�gAh, one last thing, Lady Ellie.�h (Baron Luron)

�gI am not kissing Kira in front of you.�h (Ellie)

�gWha- No, that�fs not- *cough* Lady Ellie is mistaken.�h (Baron Luron)

No, I really am not.

�gIt�fs about your gift to my personal maid during your last visit. I don�ft know what it was, but her elated
mood ever since has brightened up this dreary place. I wish to express my gratitude.�h (Baron Luron)

Ah, the autograph.

Nice save, baron!

Actually, I should thank her later for the cookies she brought.

They were extra tasty.

She wrapped some in a cloth to bring back to the girls, too.

We say our goodbyes with the baron and leave his study.

He got busy with those papers on his desk before we even left the room.

Why do these people like paperwork so much?

It�fs just a coping mechanism, isn�ft it?

What if they run out of forms?

Is there a form for that?

�c

There probably is.

But if they run out of forms then how do they fill in the form for running out of forms since there are no more forms
and the form for running out of forms is also a form therefore there must be a form for when there�fs no forms to
report the lack of forms because the forms and the forms had-
�g...ie�cEl..lie...eee...�h (Muffled voice)

I feel something pulling me out of the abyss...

Literally pulling on me, actually.

�gEllie!�h (Kira)

I snap back to reality.

�gAh! Kira! Huh?�h (Ellie)

�gAre you okay? You almost walked into the door frame!�h (Kira)

�gAh�c yes�c I�fll be fine, sorry.�h (Ellie)

That was close.

I underestimated paperwork.

It may actually be the greatest enemy I�fve ever faced!

It seems this little fic of mine has reached 1000 average views. I'm not sure how good that actually is but I've
decided it's a nice thing. So, thank you all for sticking with this nonsense of mine!
Chapter 63 - Everyone around you can be a teacher in their own right -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

*Su* *Su*

*Su su*

*Su*

*Su su SU*

*Su* *Su*

*Su su su su*

*Su*

�c

*Su SU*

*SU*

The sharp sounds are good, there�fs progress.

A dutifully performed kata.

�gOoooh!�h (Kelly, Lara, Sophie)

*Clap clap clap clap*

The others were impressed enough to start applauding.

Well, perhaps it�fs as expected.

Right, let's offer some praise.

"Better than yesterday." (Ellie)

�g*Haaah haaah haaah* Really? *Haaah*�h (Kira)

A heavily panting and sweaty Kira.

This appearance is one I�fve seen many times.

But the presence of clothes and being outside makes it somehow more exciting�c

Ah, no good, I must be strict here.

Since I�fm the teacher.

�gConsidering Kira only just started, it�fs very good. But there are still places to improve!

Concentration is good, but balance is unsteady! Speed is still lacking!�h (Ellie)

�g *Haah* My br- chest keeps *Haah* Throwing me off!�h (Kira)

As expected, the chest is a problem.

Even after binding it completely, the weight and size get in the way.

Kira is formidable as ever!

Kira only recently started training this way.

Ever since we came back from the box hunt, actually.

We had to take a break with the construction, which was bad.

It�fs important to practice these movements regularly.

Still, Kira�fs progress is amazing.

Kira already knows all the moves and steps.

She said it�fs because she�fs always watching me practice until now.

But, knowing and doing are different after all.

Because it�fs not just the chest that�fs the problem.

Kira�fs chest aside, her lower body is a bit weak and needs more strength.

Stamina is good since Kira is an active adventurer.

Long treks across uneven terrain will do that naturally.

But because her soft body isn�ft strong enough, it doesn�ft behave exactly like she wants.

Kira�fs punches and hand strikes are sharp and accurate, the form there is okay.

But when it comes to kicks and legwork, she�fs unsteady.

As expected, it�fs the chest.

But, with enough practice it is not something that can�ft be overcome!

If Kira trains her long smooth legs a bit, then even that splendid bouncing chest can be overcome...

�g *Haaah haaah*�h (Kira)

{Kelly, situation H! Get the kids inside, quickly!}

She�fs still breathing heavily since she�fs tired�c

�gAaaaaalright then. Girls, let�fs go see what we can do about lunch, okay?�h (Kelly)

�gHuh? Is it over? But...�h (Lara)

Her vulnerable position and disheveled appearance�c

�gMommy was so cool! I want to see moooore!�h (Sophie)

Her flushed cheeks and sweaty body�c

�gNo, trust me on this kiddo, this isn�ft something you want to see. Come on, let�fs help out Nano.�h (Kelly)

�g�gOkay Aunt Kelly...�h�h (Lara and Sophie)

I crouch down next to Kira who�fs sitting down on the ground.

�gKira�c�h (Ellie)

I soak in every part of her being.

*Haaah haaah*

The sound of her breathing...

*Sniff sniff*

The smell of her hair...

�g... Ellie?�h (Kira)

*Lick*

The taste of her cheeks...

�gKya! Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

*Fondle fondle*

The feel of her skin�c

�gWe shouldn�ft ~?! We�fre outside ~?!�h (Kira)

***

That was close.

Me and Kira completely forgot about the girls.

�gNo fair! I wanted to see mommy�fs dancing!�h (Sophie)

�gYeah! Mom and mom kept going after we left right?!�h (Lara)

�gThere�fs no such thing!�h (Kira)

Kira protests with a red face.

It�fs true that, technically, we didn�ft keep going with the training.

�gBut we could hear Mom's happy voice all the way in the kitchen!�h (Lara)

�gYea yea! It sounded like fun! I wanted to seee!�h (Sophie)

Thankfully Nano and Kelly were there.

So a worst case scenario was averted.

Nano, good job!

Right now we�fre back inside, enjoying lunch.

�gOh�c they definitely kept going alright�c�h (Kelly)

Somehow Kelly�fs eyes seem to be staring beyond the wall.

�gThis is a secret technique that�fs far too dangerous to show you two, complaining won�ft help.�h (Nano)

Oh, well said!

The girls seem to accept Nano�fs strict words.

Everyone resumes eating with zeal.

Kelly and Lara as usual perform a combined assault on the meat.

Sophie focuses more on the fresh vegetables and fruits.

I�fm with her, boar meat is tasty but it�fs a bit difficult to chew.

It�fs different whenever we have proper pork or beef, but those are expensive.

Kira has a nice balance of both.

Nano�fs butler-mode android is acting as a waiter.

I prefer this to construction drones carrying the dishes with kinetic tethers.

It�fs also easier on the girls who can�ft hear Nano otherwise.

As expected, the ear communicators would be too much for kids.

But my bad habit kept upsetting Lara, so Nano and Kelly made them hairclips instead.

Sophie�fs hairclip is three silver-ish marigolds.

It�fs cute and suits her very well.

Lara�fs hairclip is a small replica of Scrappy�fs helmet profile, in a deep red.

What is this, it�fs way too cool!

It reminds me of Scrappy�fs gallant form when we assaulted Fishface�fs base!

I wanted a Scrappy accessory too, but Nano declined, something about redundant features.

Nano doesn�ft understand - it�fs not about function, it�fs about fashion!

I�fve never had the chance before, so putting in effort to be cute is hard!

And I want to be as cute as possible for Kira�fs sake!

Thankfully, Clara from the guild helps me out a lot with advice.

She�fs younger than me, but she�fs already a veteran of the battlefield called shopping!

***

I really should thank Fishface.

Just a little though.

I think I�fll only break one of his arms next time we meet.

His weapon really hurt me and Nano, so this much should be enough.

It was the first time both of us were completely out.

Kira acted fast and we avoided a dangerous situation.

I�fm so glad... if I�fm gone then Kira will be sad.

I cannot allow that to happen.

Since I�fm the wife.

But when I woke up afterwards I felt a bit strange.

Like something was pushing down on me and my body was heavier.

Even though I wasn�ft tired and my injuries had healed.

It got better after a few days, which was good.

Nano thought it was a side-effect of that psionic feedback pulse.

But Nano was unsure, which was rare.

I explained it to Kira.

Where Nano is lacking, Kira fills in, and vice versa.

Truly a dream team!

Kira had an idea, but we had to wait until we got home to verify it.

When we did, she handed me a small stick with a crystal ball on the end.

I remember this, it�fs used to measure how good a mage someone can be.

You grab the wooden bit and the crystal ball lights up.

Something about measuring mana in the body.

If it shines a cold color like blue or green, it's not enough to use spells.

If it shines a warm color like yellow or red, you have enough to be a mage.

Those who go into red color can be called prodigies and geniuses.

Kira was like that when she was 10 years old.

Nothing less from the amazing Kira!

That�fs how she got into the Magic Academy so easily.

Incidentally, when Kelly tried it, it was a color that was between yellow and orange.

Apparently that�fs average.

Kira bought one of these measuring tools during our first visit to Runetap.

She was curious if I could be a mage.

When I tried it, it didn�ft even light up.

It was a bit sad, but not a big deal since I didn�ft need magic anyway.

I didn�ft need it okay?!

But after I was knocked out, I tried it again by Kira�fs request.

The crystal ball still didn�ft light up.

Because it exploded instantly.

It seems when Nano was asleep, I had �gfound�h my mana.

That heavy feeling I described is what mana exhaustion feels like to Kira.

Nano and Kira explained it with words like �eresonance�f and �einterference�f but I was far too excited to pay
attention.

My secret dream of using actual magic was not impossible!

And today, after weeks of intense study and practice!

�g -- [Illuminate]�h (Ellie)

A small ball of light appeared from Kira�fs staff.

The staff I was holding.

�gOoooh!�h (Kelly, Lara, Sophie)

*Clap clap clap clap*

�gI did it! I did actual magic! YEAAAAAAAAH!�h (Ellie)

I jumped up and down while shouting, unable to contain my excitement!

�gVery good Ellie! I�fm so proud!�h (Kira)

Kira had me practice at every chance since that day.

Somehow, the feeling of magic is very similar to using [Telekinesis].

But at the same time, very different.

Like learning to write with my left hand instead of my right.

�gNow then, come here ~?! It�fs reward time ~?!�h (Kira)

I bounce over to where Kira is sitting and put my head on her lap.

*Scritch scritch*

�gNyaaa�c�h (Ellie)

It�fs strange, it should be dinner soon yet I�fm already so full...

I'm thinking of adding a new male character to the party soon. I'm not sure what personality to go with, so I made a
poll to help me out a bit. I'd appreciate the readers' input on this!

P.S. A bit of trivia - Ellie didn't refer to Kira as "her" or "she" until a very important event in the story, in Chapter
20.
Chapter 64 - Jail time is not universally a bad thing. It does help
sometimes. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

Me and Kira enter the guild building.

We received a message saying there�fs a letter for us from the capital.

It must be their response about our Flight Badge request.

They�fre slow!

It�fs been more than three weeks since we sent it!

Ah, but a round trip to there takes two weeks now so maybe it�fs okay?

We took the letter from Clara.

Kira opened it immediately and read it.

�gSeems they want to meet us in person for an interview. Says we�fre a bit suspicious. How rude! Well, a
Baron�fs word doesn�ft hold much weight in the capital so it�fs not unexpected.�h (Kira)

Looks like we�fll need to go on another trip.

Let�fs do this one leisurely!

Maybe we can bring the kids...

�gSo Ellie is going to the capital?!�h (Clara)

�gSeems so.�h (Ellie)

�gI�c see�c�h (Clara)

For some reason Clara suddenly gets depressed.

Ah I see, she might feel lonely since her idol (me) isn�ft here.

No good, I must cheer her up somehow.

She is always happy when I ask her for advice, so let�fs do that!

�gBy the way Clara, do you know any good places that serve sweets?�h (Ellie)

I�fve been wanting to have a small family outing recently.

Kids love sweet things, so this is a good chance.

�gAh! That�fs right!�h (Clara)

She instantly brightened up as expected.

�gThere�fs this new place that�fs really good!�h (Clara)

***

The sign above says �gVestiges of the Empire.�h

It�fs a bit pompous, but Clara recommended it so I expect good things.

We walk into the cake shop, the whole family showed up to see it.

Kelly too, for some reason.

I thought she would just go to the bar, but apparently even she�fs curious.

But this shop is way too crowded!

I heard it just opened recently, but it�fs already so successful.

This is probably a good thing.

We somehow find a table and take our seats.

Sitting on these large cushioned benches rather than wooden chairs is a bit different.

It�fs pretty great since I can sit right next to Kira.

I lean on her slightly, putting my head on Kira�fs shoulder.

Kira instantly reveals a huge smile and puts a hand on my head.

*Scrich scritch*

As expected, Kira�fs way too skillful with her hand.

*Purrrrrr*

I tried to hold my voice in since it�fs a bit embarrassing in public, but purring came out instead!

What sort of conspiracy is this!?

*Scritch scritch*

*Purrrrrr*

Well, Kira finds it cute so I will accept it.

�gUgh, I haven�ft even ordered anything and I�fm already getting a toothache�c�h (Kelly)

�gMommy�fs ears look so soft! I want to touch them again!�h (Sophie)

�gNot now sis, don�ft interrupt Mom�fs turn!�h (Lara)

�gOkay�c�h (Sophie)

Lately I�fve been letting Sophie and Lara touch my ears.

Somehow, instinctively, it feels wrong.

Like submitting to someone much younger than me, a hard to describe feeling.

They�fre not as skilled as Kira, though.

But these are our precious daughters, I cannot deny them such simple happiness.

Therefore, I put up with the slight discomfort.

It�fs a sacrifice that�fs easy to make.

Since I�fm the mom.

Although I need to be wary of their combination M-word attacks in the future.

They�fve been getting really good at that sort of thing.

�gHello everyone! I�fd like to welcome you to our cake shop!�h (Waitress)

The waitress shows up, she�fs a cheerful-looking girl.

Her uniform is a long dark-blue maid-like dress.

I say maid-like because it�fs similar, but also different.

The skirt is shorter, not even going past her knees.

It�fs also super-frilly.

�gHere is the menu! I�fll be back shortly to take your order!�h (Waitress)

The high-tension waitress leaves and goes to service another table.

We all look through the menu.

Listed inside are a wide range of cakes with interesting descriptions.

Since there�fs no pictures so it�fs hard to tell what they look like beforehand.

At least their names are fun!

A few minutes later the waitress came back.

�gSo have you all decided yet?�h (Waitress)

�gI wanted to try the whiskey cake I heard about, can you bring me one of them?�h (Kelly)

�gOf course, one Drowning Mariner it is!�h (Waitress)

�gChocolate Apocalypse for me, please.�h (Kira)

�gStrawberry of Despair.�h (Ellie)

�gChocolate Apocalypse for me too!�h (Lara)

�gVisa- Vissi- This one please!�h (Sophie)

Sophie holds up the menu while pointing at one of the entries.

Nano�fs teaching her, but she still can�ft read very well.

Incidentally, Lara already knew how to read when we met.

�gVisceral Vanilla? Okay! I�fll bring them out shortly!�h (Waitress)

After writing down our order she disappeared again in a flash.

She�fs extra motivated to work in this shop, she thinks highly of her boss.

It�fs not a bad thing, but isn�ft she going to cause an accident if she runs like that?

The waitress comes back almost instantly this time, already carrying five pieces of cake on small plates.

As intelligence (Clara) reported, they look cute.

I put a piece of my strawberry shortcake into my mouth.

*Nom*

�c

�c

�c

Huh?

I think I blacked out.

�gNoooooo!�h (Ellie)

My cake was so good I finished it an instant!

I should have savored it!

Somehow I screamed out in despair!

Ah, but it was called Strawberry of Despair, wasn�ft it?

I see, I see, what a fitting name!

I want another one, but something tells me the same thing will happen.
Sophie has also already demolished her cake.

She ate it so vigorously it made a mess of her face and dress.

Her face in particular has a blank expression of disbelief.

Visceral Vanilla, also a worthy opponent!

Kelly has barely eaten half her Drowning Mariner but she�fs already under the table!

To knock out this veteran drunkard, just how strong is that thing!?

Wait, what about the Chocolate Apocalypse?

Lara and Kira are both crying!

�gIt�fs chocolate, the whole world is chocolate. The air, the sea, the land�c�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs like I�fm breathing chocolate�c it�fs so good I can�ft even see anything but chocolate!�h (Lara)

Ah, I see.

Truly an annihilation of one�fs senses!

The waitress comes back a little later.

�gI see you all enjoyed your cake! I hope you don�ft mind, but the boss has some words for you girls.

He�fs a bit loud and rough with his words, but he means well, so please don�ft get angry okay?�h (Waitress)

She leans in and whispers the last part with a small smile.

Someone steps out from behind her, this must be boss.

He�fs a tall purple guy in an apron with horns poking out from a white chef�fs hat.

I, THE GREAT AND MIGHTY ZUBLOS, HEREBY DECLARE YOUR PITIABLE ATTITUDE
TOWARDS ONE�fS CREATIONS HAS BEEN WITNESSED AND JUDGED AS
SATISFACTORY

Wow, this guy is really loud.

Somehow, I really want to throw something at his face.

But since the waitress kindly asked beforehand, I will not mind it.

�gHe means he�fs really glad you enjoyed his cake and was deeply moved.�h (Waitress)

The waitress interprets his long words.

IN LIGHT OF THIS PUNY CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS MY GREAT SELF, YOUR

UNWORTHY OFFERING OF COIN IS DEEMED UNNECESSARY
�gHe means it�fs on the house as thanks.�h (Waitress)

It seems I�fm the only one who has recovered enough to respond.

Therefore, I must show my gratitude.

Since I'm the wife.

Also mom.

�gWe appreciate it Zublos. We certainly enjoyed your amazing cakes!�h (Ellie)

WORDS OF PRAISE ARE AS MEANINGLESS AS YOUR FUTILE LIVES

TREMBLE IN FEAR FOR I HAVE HEARD THEM

After accepting my thanks (I think) he went back into the kitchen.

He shouted something about �g THE END IS COMING�h along the way.

Must be a new cake, I�fll be looking forward to it!

Chapter 65 - Making this title sound like a nugget of wisdom takes too
much effort - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gI want to order another Strawberry of Despair.�h (Ellie)

The others still haven�ft recovered so I want to challenge it again.

�gSure thing! I�fll be right back!�h (Waitress)

The waitress went to back and came back after several seconds with another piece.

Did they anticipate I�fd ask for seconds?

�gThere you go! Enjoy!�h (Waitress)

She set it down in front of me and went back to her duties.

This time, I will do my utmost to savor this cake.

I refuse to be defeated by a pastry!

*Nom*

Focusing my mind to the limit, I manage to barely retain control of my senses.

The fluffy cream, the bouncy batter and the fresh strawberries mix together into a perfect combination.

Time slows down.

Each color become more beautiful.

Every sound is a musical note.

What is this world I do not know?

I guide another bite of cake into my mouth.

Somehow it seems even more delicious.

This indescribable joy�c

I patiently savor the moment, not letting a single sensation go to waste.

***

*Clank*

My fork strikes the empty plate.

After what feels like hours, the small cake is gone completely.
Not even crumbs are left.

In reality only a few minutes have passed.

But�c how can I keep going on like this?

This cold, mundane world can never compare to the one I just left.

Happiness is a myth which I will never know again.

I feel tears running down my cheeks.

I don�ft know if they will ever stop.

What�fs this?

Something warm wipes them away.

It grips my cheeks and pulls me to the side.

Something wet touches my lips.

This incomparable softness and taste cannot compare with mere cake!

�gMmmmmwah!�h (Kira)

That was close, I almost forgot.

A place where I know true serenity and fulfilment.

�gI love you, Ellie.�h (Kira)

Like a thousand sunrises, Kira�fs smile wipes away all my worries like they were a joke.

�gKira! I love you too!�h (Ellie)

I�fve fallen for her all over again.

***

We leave the �gVestiges of the Empire.�h

Even though we didn�ft have to pay, we still left a massive tip.

It was a life-changing experience, so that much was nothing.

I had managed to rediscover and strengthen my feelings for my wife.

Sophie seemed determined to behave better.

I don�ft think that�fs necessary though, Sophie is a really good girl.

Lara and Kira had experienced an enlightenment of their own.

Something about truly appreciating a world not dominated by chocolate.

Overcome with emotion, Kira kissed me out of nowhere.

She really had good timing!

Kelly is finally awake, although extremely unsteady on her feet.

She�fs mumbling about never drinking again, but somehow I don�ft believe her.

Must be the half-eaten Drowned Mariner cake she's carrying in a to-go box.

{Now that this little outing is over, let�fs focus on preparing for the trip.}

�gNano has a point, we need to leave as soon as possible for this interview.�h (Kira)

�gDo Lara and Sophie want to come with?�h (Ellie)

�gYes! I want to go!�h (Sophie)

�gIt�fs the capital right?! I have to see it at any cost!�h (Lara)

Lara�fs newfound zeal is a bit disturbing.

It should wear off in a while�c I hope.

�gKelly?�h (Kira)

�gUghhh�c *Urk* yeah�c is a good *urk* chance to visit an accom- accomo- a friend.�h (Kelly)

Why do I get the impression she almost said �gaccomplice�h there?

{In that case, I�fll be coming too. Or rather, the butler golem will be.}

�gReally?�h (Ellie)

{Of course, I have to look after the girls. Or would you trust Kelly with their safety in an unknown city?}

We both take a glance at Kelly who's putting in her best effort to avoid vomiting in broad daylight.

�g�gAbsolutely not.�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

�gMom, what�fs going on?�h (Lara)

Lara tugs on my clothes with a worried look.

�gNano�fs coming also to look after you two.�h (Ellie)

�g�gYay!�h�h (Sophie and Lara)

Well, like this it really will be a family trip.

{So Kira, any suggestions on how we�fre getting there?}

�gThere should be regular stagecoaches travelling to and from the Capital by now. We should look to get hired on
one of those. It�fs a good way to make money while we get to where we need to go.

Since it�fs a Rank B working for the price of a Rank D, I don�ft think they�fll mind if we bring the girls and
some luggage along.�h (Kira)

{What about the butler golem?}

�gLike I said, luggage.�h (Kira)

{... I don�ft know if I should be offended or not.}

�gWell, let�fs drop by the guild and see if there�fs any decent requests. If not, we�fll have to hire a stagecoach
or two normally.�h (Kira)

***

We walk into the guild after dropping off Kelly and the kids back at the house.

�gWelcome back Ellie! And Mrs Quasse.�h (Clara)

We were just here yesterday, so Clara is super excited to see us.

�gI�fm glad you�fre still here! The Branch Manager wanted to meet with you immediately!�h (Clara)

Oh, there seems to be some urgent business.

�gWhat!? That guy never meets with anyone!�h (Kira)

�gMrs Quasse, please don�ft refer to the Manager as �ethat guy�f or he�fll get angry.�h (Clara)

�gAhh, of course. Forgive me, I was just surprised. Is it alright if we go right now?�h (Kira)

�gHis words did say �eimmediately�f after all, Mrs Quasse.�h (Clara)

�gThen we�fd better go right now. Come on Ellie.�h (Kira)

I follow Kira up the steps.

I�fve never been to the second floor before.

It mostly has staff-only rooms and a library full of reference materials.

There simply wasn�ft a need to go up here before.

Kira leads me to a pair double wooden doors.

There�fs a gold-like plate on one that says �gBranch Manager Inlaeth.�h

*Knock*

�gEnter.�h (Muffled voice)

The reply seemed to come before Kira�fs knuckles even separated from the door.

We enter the room quickly and close the door behind us.

�gSit.�h (Inlaeth)

We each take a seat in front of what must be the branch manager.

He�fs probably an elf, even if he doesn�ft look like one.

The telltale ears are hidden by his flowing gray hair.

His wrinkled face and frail appearance suggest it�fs not his natural hair color - he�fs just old.

I�fm pretty sure he�fs an elf though.

�c enough profit to allow three Rank C commissions. After that we will need to purchase several shipments of
potion and �c (Inlaeth)

That one-track non-stop thought process seems to be common among elves.

Picorio, for example, only thinks about plants and turning them into potions, balms and other products.

An elf woman we passed by in town was focused completely on the novel she�fs writing.

An elf man we saw at �gThe Hairy Leg�h kept thinking about the woman that left him.

He kept going even while chugging his ale or when Frank had him in a headlock.

I�fm not sure if that�fs commendable or not, though.

Anyway, this guy seems to be thinking solely about spending and earning money.

This might be the reason why he�fs the manager.

He looks up at us briefly before continuing.

�g [Black Flame]. Personal request for you, Kelly too. Escort me to the Capital. Picorio of [Red Fang] will be
coming also. Compensation is standard Rank C escort rate.�h (Inlaeth)

�gMay we bring our two daughters and luggage?�h (Kira)

�gI�fll allow it. Be in front of the guild tomorrow at dawn.�h (Inlaeth)

�gUnderstood, we�fll be there.�h (Kira)

�gGood. That is all. Dismissed.�h (Inlaeth)

*Slam*

Huh?

We're already outside his office?

I was expecting another long-winded meeting like with the Baron.

But that barely lasted a minute!

�gKira? What just happened?�h (Ellie)

�gEverything is calculated with that guy, even in this unpredictable city.�h (Kira)

�gHis attitude is a bit annoying though.�h (Ellie)

�gWell, he did tell us what to do, but that�fs because asking would be pointless. We had no reason to refuse
anyway, and he knew that. The Branch Manager is really good at his job, you know?�h (Kira)

I see, so he�fs just obsessed with efficiency.

Perhaps all elves are like that, in a way?

No, I doubt that lonely drunk needs to be any more efficient at missing his ex-wife.
Chapter 66 - Fact checking is a skill that seems to be lost to the ages -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

We arrive at the guild building slightly before dawn.

The sky is lit up but the sun isn�ft visible yet.

There are a long line of wagons and stagecoaches here.

Seems to be 9 of them in total.

I�fve seen several convoys like this recently.

There�fs a lot of people walking around, preparing for the trip.

Since that Manager is in charge, everybody is super busy.

We too are immediately sent to the front of the line.

I saw mister Picorio, but was unable to greet him.

He had recently completed his new scented soaps so I wanted to buy some.

That�fs fine though, we should have plenty of chances to talk at night.

The stagecoach at the very front of the convoy is ours.

Me and Kelly load up our luggage on top of the carriage, but there�fs not enough space.

We�fre bringing some large and heavy items, after all.

Namely Scrappy and two of Nano�fs androids.

Kelly was wearing Scrapy and carrying the other two, but we had nowhere to put them.

Making her carry them for the entire trip was mean.

Not impossible, just mean.

Thankfully the Manager foresaw this and told us to use some of the space in the wagons.

The wagon creaked dangerously when Kelly climbed into it, but it didn�ft break.

We�fre bringing these because Kira wanted to visit the Coliseum in the capital.

Kira said our team should participate in an event there.

That way we can show off our skill and ability to the people there.

Showing off is actually important you know?

If you�fre not well known and respected, becoming Rank A is impossible.

Since it�fs the highest rank, not just anyone can achieve it.

The only Rank A I�fve met is that flat-faced catkin during the Monster Hole job.

So this news was a shock to me.

Maybe he was actually a decent adventurer?

Somehow I find that hard to believe, though.

In any case, after we drop off the heavy �egolems�f at the wagon, we go back to the front.

Kira, Sophie and Lara are inside the carriage on one of the seats.

Sophie and Lara woke up much earlier than usual, so they were still tired.

They instantly fell asleep on either side of Kira, using her knees as pillows.

How enviable�c

Kelly gets inside and takes a seat opposite them.

I walk up to the coachman in front to introduce myself.

He�fs someone the Guild Branch Manager hired on our behalf.

Kelly�fs going to be a passenger rather than a driver this time.

�gGood morning, Mrs Quasse.�h (Coachman)

The coachman greets me casually.

�gGood morning, Logan.�h (Ellie)

�gHuh? How did you know my name?�h (Coachman)

Oops.

�gYou look like a Logan?�h (Ellie)

�gHah! That�fs a first-rate scout�fs intuition for you!�h (Coachman)

That was close.

I picked his name out of his head, but I can�ft say that.

I shouldn�ft let people know I�fm reading their thoughts.

I don�ft have bad intentions, but they will get angry at me.

It�fs rude after all, so I can�ft blame them.

However, it�fs important to make sure people mean us no harm.

After lightly probing their heads, I let their thoughts fade away into the background.

So if they never find out, everyone will be happy.

Therefore, I slightly deceived him.

I say slightly, because he does remind me of a certain Logan.

That is to say, a certain furry shorty with a bad temper who called people �ebub�f all the time.

***

We�fre almost out of the forest.

Right now we�fve stopped for the night.

Kira and the girls already went to bed.

Kelly went off to have a drink with some of the other adventurers.

There�fs two more adventurer teams with us, a total of nine Rank C people.

It's impossible for three people to cover 9 carriages you know?

Hopefully she doesn't overdo it and breaks their teeth again.

I, however, am gathering intelligence on some people.

It�fs a four-man Rank C team that keeps to the middle of the convoy.

They�fre a bit unusual, so I got curious.

What�fs unusual about them is one of them is a female adventurer.

It�fs the first time I�fve seen one, other than ourselves that is.

So I�fm here, listening in on their talk while they�fre sitting around a campfire.

�gMan, this job is way easier than I thought!�h (Young Man)

�gI don�ft like it, there�fs a thing called �etoo easy�f you know?�h (Female Catkin)

�gWhat, don�ft be such a bore! We went three days straight without seeing a single monster!�h (Young Man)

�gYeah and these merchants won�ft try and dock our pay because we do no work?�h (Female Catkin)

�gOnly if they want the guild coming down on them like a ton of bricks.�h (Young Man)

�gYou�fre not a mercenary anymore Lilly. The Guild already took their money, so they can�ft back out on their
word.�h (Blonde Man)
�gThat�fs so isn�ft it? It�fs still my first job as an adventurer so I�fm not used to getting paid without
quarreling.�h (Female Catkin/Lilly)

�gWell, the work isn�ft much different so you�fll be fine if you get along with the Guild.�h (Blonde Man)

�gStill, I�fm worried about something else, too. The forest is much too quiet, it�fs unnatural.�h (Lilly)

�gThat�fs mostly thanks to our scout you know? That �eBonesetter�f girl at the very front?�h (Young Man)

�gBonesetter? What?�h (Lilly)

�gAh that�fs right, you only recently came to town. Her name's Ellie, the Rank B scout of [Black Flame]. She
probably sniffs out and culls the monsters before they have a chance to sneeze.�h (Older Man)

Oh, this middle-aged guy actually noticed?

I was trying to be extra quiet since it would frighten Sophie and Lara.

�gReally? That�fs her? I heard she�fs a violent psychopath who would snap a man in half for just breathing near
her!�h (Lilly)

Huh?

What kind of unfair rumor is that?

�gReally? Where�fd you hear that nonsense? It�fs not the impression I got you know?�h (Older Man)

That's right!

I only snap their arms in half!

�gYeah, when you see her playing with those kids it really warms the heart! I seen them a few times around the
park, it�fs really something else!�h (Young Man)

�gKids? What kids?!�h (Lilly)

What�fs with the panicked voice like I stole them from someone!?

�gNo idea, probably sisters or relatives? They looked nothing alike though.�h (Young Man)

�gMaybe she adopted them?�h (Blonde Man)

�gWhy do you sound so sceptical?�h (Young Man)

�gWell�c it�fs that girl right? The one responsible for the �eNight of a Thousand Broken Bones�f?�h
(Blonde Man)

�gWait, that was her?�h (Younger Man)

�gWhat�fs with that clearly suspicious event!? It�fs the first I hear of it!�h (Lilly)

�gWell the story goes the Gix bunch kidnapped her lover, so she went berserk and mutilated the lot of them. Over
300 thugs beaten to a pulp in a single night. She was a proper Rank C adventurer the next day.�h (Older Man)
I mean, yes, that did happen, but he�fs leaving out part of the story!

I let them all live you know?!

�gAw man! She�fs taken!? I was going to give her a shot!�h (Young Man)

�g That's what you have a problem with?�h (Older Man)

�gNevermind that idiot, Jean! In what way is that person not a violent psychopath?!�h (Lilly)

�gShe did leave them all alive, you know?�h (Older Man/Jean)

Old man, good job!

�gSure she hurts people, but there�fs always a reason. I was in her care a few months ago, too you know?�h
(Jean)

�gShe attacked you too?�h (Lilly)

�gNot exactly. I tried to put my hands on this red-haired beauty and my arm was broken in three places before I
realized it. I got it healed the same day, but I suddenly realized there�fs always someone above.�h (Jean)

�c Nope, don�ft remember.

There must have been over 30 people who did something like that.

�gHuh? Is that why you lost your intensity all of a sudden back then?�h (Young Man)

�gDon�ft call it that. I was arrogant and foolish. That girl really opened my eyes.�h (Jean)

�gI see�c so she did all that to rehabilitate those thugs, huh?�h (Lilly)

�gHm? Oh no, that case was completely different. She did it because she wanted them to suffer.�h (Jean)

Wow, this guy really gets me!

�g... so how is that not a violent psychopath?�h (Lilly)

�gWell if someone laid their hands on my wife I wouldn�ft be any different you know?�h (Jean)

�gSo yeah, like I was saying, she�fs really taken?�h (Young Man)

�gOh yeah, there was a big wedding and everything. I went to give them my blessing since she set me straight.�h
(Jean)

�gWhat kind of guy can tame a beast like that? Must be a man among men!�h (Young Man)

A beast?

�c No, Kira does call me that sometimes when things get intense, so I can�ft refute it.

�gEh? Guy? She�fs married to another woman you know?�h (Jean)

�g�gThat can happen?!�h�h (Young Man and Blonde Man)

Ugh, couple of perverts confirmed.

The way their eyes lit up is a bit disgusting, they put that nosy baron to shame.

�gOh sure, turns out it�fs not illegal or anything. Her wife is that, er, the [Red Sage]. I forget her name because
it�fs a bit long...�h (Jean)

�gYou mean that Crack-�h (Young Man)

*SLAM*

�gOOF! Hey! What gives Jean!?�h (Young Man)

The old guy just knocked him down with a punch.

He beat me to it.

The other two are staring wide-eyed.

�gKid, I�fm warning you. For your own good, never say that nickname! You want to become like Guard Captain
Olboun?�h (Jean)

�gHuh? Isn�ft he that the rumored monster from the south gate?�h (Lilly)

�gYeah, that guy that can take down a troll bare-handed.�h (Blonde Man)

Really?

Come to think of it, Kira did say he was rather skilled.

Guess I just haven�ft had a chance to see him in action.

�gWh-what about him?�h (Younger Man)

�gThe �eBonesetter�f broke him. First his arm, then his spirit. All because he was rude to her wife, just as you
were about to be. That girl is scary, she can probably hear us right now you know!�h (Jean)

�gWhat sort of nonsense is that? She�fs all the way in her tent sleeping, right?�h (Blonde Man)

�gYe-yeah. Also, she broke that monstrous uncle, give me a break! As if a man like that would submit to a little
girl!�h (Young Man)

Ah, it�fs turning a bit rowdy now.

It seems Jean�fs defending on my part got him hated.

Since it�fs partly my fault, let�fs help him out.

�gHe�fs right you know.�h (Ellie)

The four of them freeze and slowly turn to me.

�gYou guys didn�ft even notice me for the last 15 minutes or so. And you dare call yourselves adventurers?�h
(Ellie)

I stand up from my seat next to Jean and give them a lecture.

�gYou! Since Jean here punished you in my stead, you get to keep your bones healthy.�h (Ellie)

I point at the younger one who almost insulted Kira.

�gBe sure to sincerely thank him later, okay?�h (Ellie)

�gYes! Yes! Okay!�h (Young Man)

Good response, I�fll accept it.

�gAnd you!�h (Ellie)

�gEep!�h (Lilly)

�gIf you want to investigate us that badly, just talk to us! Trusting rumors and hearsay, what sort of intelligence
officer are you?�h (Ellie)

�gY-you knew?�h (Lilly)

That�fs right, she�fs not just a mercenary.

Someone from the capital sent her to spy on us.

�gDon�ft underestimate adventurers! Now, if you have any questions, stop by tomorrow and we�fll answer them
without holding back!�h (Ellie)

I take a proud pose to show off my determination!

�gUh�c er�c okay? That�fs it?�h (Lilly)

�gHmm?�h (Ellie)

Why is she looking at me with those distrusting eyes?

�gUm, you won�ft chase me out or hurt me?�h (Lilly)

�gWhy would I do that?�h (Ellie)

�gWell�c I was-�h (Lilly)

�gJust doing your job as an intelligence officer. It�fs not like you were breaking the law or trying to harm us,
right?�h (Ellie)

Although her boss is a different story.

I'll be sure to properly educate them when we meet.

�gAh, I guess�c Okay, I�fll trouble you for an interview tomorrow.�h (Lilly)
Chapter 67 - There are questions that should never be asked. It's really
for the best - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gLook girls, it�fs Kotero, the Royal Capital.�h (Kira)

I bring the two�fs attention to the grand walls visible from the window.

�gWow! It�fs so huge! And pretty!�h (Sophie)

�gYeah, it can't even compare to Runetap!�h (Lara)

Well yeah, these walls are easily twice the size of Runetap�fs and a flawless white color. The Royal Castle is
visible in the distance, and the Mirelian Ocean stretches out behind it. The morning sun shining down on everything
completes a truly dazzling view.

It's a first impression that can't be beat. Well, a whole city crashing into a hole with a loud sound and a cloud of dust
is memorable in it's own way, I suppose...

�gIs that the ocean?! Can we go see it!?�h (Sophie)

�gOf course sweetie, that�fs the main reason we brought you girls. I know a very special spot there.�h (Kira)

�gUmm, so this isn�ft Mrs Quasse�fs first visit to Kotero?�h (Lilly)

�gThat�fs right, I used to live here while attending the Magic Academy several years ago. I went back to Runetap
after I graduated.�h (Kira)

I respond to Inspector Lilly�fs question. I did agree to honestly answer everything she asked about, but why does
she insist on riding with us? I can�ft really say anything about it though. Since she was sent by the Ministry of
Information in response to my Flight Badge request, it�fs in our best interest to cooperate.

Oddly enough Lilly didn�ft ask about Ellie at all. Maybe she�fs satisfied with Ellie calmly accepting her snooping
around instead of lashing out? I know I am. That�fs why Ellie�fs head is currently on my lap, receiving her
reward.

*Scritch scritch*

*Prrrrrrr*

Huhuhu, Ellie�fs ears are the best ~?! I�fm glad we�fre finally in range of the capital�fs patrols, now we can
relax and I can fully enjoy the fuzzy cuteness!

�g *Cough* I must say, that�fs making me rather uncomfortable. Especially with children here.�h (Lilly)

Well it�fs not unexpected, that�fs pretty much Kelly�fs reaction. That�fs why she decided to sit next to the
coachman since a while ago. Although about the way Lilly said it seemed�c worrying.

�gIf you don�ft mind me asking, what�fs uncomfortable about it?�h (Kira)

She glances at the girls who are pressing themselves against the window and leans in with a whisper.
�gWell�c foreplay in public is a bit...�h (Lilly)

�gHuh? I�fm just being affectionate, we�fre not trying to do anything like that here...�h (Kira)

�gAh�c you didn�ft know? That is, um, catfolk ears are, uh, really sensitive.�h (Lilly)

She blushes fiercely enough to be visible through her snow-white fur.

�gLike, really sensitive.�h (Lilly)

I had no idea! And I scratched so many of them in Runetap! Aren�ft I just a molester like this? No wonder the
guards kept arresting me! Somehow my victims never complained enough to keep me detained but I�fve been
doing a terrible thing!

Come to think of it, Ellie equated ear-scratching to cheating didn�ft she? Is that what she meant? And didn�ft our
daughters take part in it too??

*Scritch scritch*

No good I can�ft stop! If I lose the calming effect of these ears I will completely flip my shi-

�gNyaaa�c I�fm not like that though. Nyaaa�c It just feels comfortable... Nyaaa...�h (Ellie)

ALRIGHT!

Ahhhh, that was dangerous! I almost forgot but Ellie is actually completely different! Wow! We dodged an arrow on
that one! Fuuu. Haaah. Okay, I�fm calm.

�gThat�fs right, Ellie isn�ft from the same race as Lilly. She came from�c beyond this continent so she�fs the
only one of her kind here.�h (Kira)

Lying is no good, especially against these guys. Rumor has it they can immediately discern whether what was said
was true or not. Well, my statement was technically true, and people rarely ever visit the other continent so let�fs
hope this works!

I�fd hate for the government to brand Ellie as a threat based on something silly like where she came from...

�gThat�fs well and all, but I still want you to stop. For my sake.�h (Lilly)

�gOkay, I understand.�h (Kira)

I stop my hands and take them off Ellie�fs head. She looks up at me from my lap with a dissatisfied expression.

�gI�fll make it up to you later tonight okay ~??�h (Kira)

�gOkay.�h (Ellie)

She sits back up and calmly leans back in her seat. Lilly on the other hand is blushing again. She�fs surprisingly
pure. I want to tease her a bit, but that�fs dangerous on many levels.

***

We arrive at the Adventurer�fs Guild Headquarters building and get off the carriage. Surprisingly, it looks exactly
the same as the one in Runetap. I thought it would be bigger, but then again the guild loves its regulations.

At least it�fs in a good place. It�fs on the edge of a sizable plaza with a fancy-looking fountain with numerous
statues of people spouting water in the middle.

�gThen I will take my leave here. I will visit tomorrow before noon to guide you to the �eofficial�f
interview.�h (Lilly)

�gOkay, I�fll be looking forward to it.�h (Kira)

Lilly and I shake hands and she disappears into the crowd. Literally. I just lost sight of her for a moment and she�fs
already gone! I guess being an intelligence officer of the royal army means she has some skill!

Oh, Branch Manager Inlaeth and Picorio are coming this way.

�gGood work. Here. On your own for return trip. Goodbye.�h (Inlaeth)

He hands me a signed piece of paper as proof of completion for the request. We just need to turn it in to get our
compensation.

�gThank you, Branch Manager, and goodbye. You too, Picorio.�h

�gGoodbye Kiressara, Ellie. Pleasure working with you again.�h (Picorio)

They walk briskly inside the HQ building. For some reason elves always seem to be in a hurry, but I don�ft
particularly mind working with them. They don�ft mess around and cut straight to the point. The stiff and curt
attitude actually grew on me after a while.

�gMommy, mommy! Let�fs go see the ocean!�h (Sophie)

�gYeah! I wanna go right now!�h (Lara)

�gCalm down you two, we�fll be visiting for a while so there�fs plenty of time. We should get settled. Kelly,
could you carry the luggage and golems?�h (Kira)

�gBag duty again? What a waste of Scrappy�fs potential�c�h (Kelly)

Oh my, she seems to have forgotten a very important fact.

�gWe could always hire some porters to carry it. By using your wages.�h (Kira)

�gRight then, give me a moment to get inside Scrappy and we�fre off!�h (Kelly)

She runs off toward the wagon where we left the golems. I wish she�fd remember she�fs still technically an
employee.

{You sure are strict when it comes to this sort of thing.}

�gOf course! We have to control our expenditures or we�fll never be able to retire!�h (Kira)

{Money doesn�ft grow on trees, right?}

�gHuh? What are you talking about? There is a money tree you know?�h (Kira)
{What? For real?}

�gOh yeah, there�fs a magical tree that produces coins instead of fruit. The problem is you need to fertilize it with
so much gold or silver that the coins it produces are not enough to cover the cost.�h (Kira)

{I want one!}

�gWere you listening? You can�ft make a profit on it. Also the coins it produces are technically counterfeit so
owning one is illegal.�h (Kira)

{Not for coins, but rather the ability to accurately duplicate small metal objects. I might have a lot of uses for that.}

�gThat so? Hmm, not sure if that�fs legal. Or even possi-�h (Kira)

�gHahahaha!�h (Sophie)

�gWheeee!�h (Lara)

Oh come on! Not again! These three always end up doing this as soon as my back is turned!

�gEllie put them down this instant!�h (Kira)

�gI keep saying it�fs safe...�h (Ellie)

�gI don�ft care if it�fs safe, it scares me so stop it!�h (Kira)

�gSelfish...�h (Ellie)

Ellie stops floating them around with [Star Magic] and gently sets them down on the ground. It�fs a bit boorish of
me, but there�fs no way I can relax if I know that�fs going on. It�fs the same power that can create craters in the
ground with small stones you know?

�gAww but mooom!�h (Lara)

�gNot a word, young lady! And stop pressuring your mother like that! Don�ft think I don�ft know about your
M-word assault strategy!�h (Kira)

Ellie is a bit too soft on them. She gives in the instant they start going �emommy mommy�f.

�gGeh! She found us out!�h (Lara)

�gI told you we�fd get in trouble�c�h (Sophie)

�gKira is strict as usual.�h (Ellie)

�gSomeone has to be.�h (Kira)

Honestly, these girls never learn. Even now Ellie is still up to no good.

�gWe�fll do it later when Kira isn�ft looking.�h (Ellie)

�gI can hear you whispering, Ellie.�h (Kira)

The three culprits stiffen up and look at me like I�fm some sort of monster. As if I�fd ever miss a word Ellie says!
�gWow what happened here? You guys tried to pull another fast one on Red, huh?�h (Kelly)

Good, Kelly�fs back with our luggage. Maybe now we can finally find an inn.

Ah, I almost forgot to report our request completion and collect our compensation!

�gKelly, go with the girls and find us a place to stay for about a week, we have some things to take care of
inside.�h (Kira)

�gOne of my cousins has a place nearby, actually. I�fll go see if we can stay with him for a while.�h (Kelly)

�gReally? We won�ft be a bother?�h (Kira)

�gDon�ft worry about it, he�fs a bit lonely so he�fll enjoy the company!�h (Kelly)

Saying that, she takes off into the crowd while shouldering a mountain of luggage. Lara and Sophie follow after her
with sparkling eyes.

�c they won�ft get lost or anything right? Should be fine since Nano�fs there.

Ellie and I walk into the guild HQ building. Not just the outside, the inside is completely identical too. Even the
receptionist is the same.

�gGood morning Ellie! And Mrs Quasse.�h (Clara)

Huh?

�gGood morning Clara.�h (Ellie)

Ellie greets receptionist who can�ft possibly be there and walks over to her. I mean, Clara definitely didn't come
with us.

�gWe�fre here to get our commission, here�fs the proof of completion.�h (Ellie)

I look outside through the open door. It�fs most assuredly the capital street.

�gWow! The Manager even said to give you a bonus! That guy is super stingy you know!�h (Clara)

I scan the insides of the guild building. It looks exactly the same as the one in Runetap. I even recognize some of the
faces in the restaurant area. Even that cake store owner is here, he's hard to miss.

�gHere�fs the full amount!�h (Clara)

It�fs that, right? Some new type of [Gateway] that connects all guild buildings together, right?

�gThanks Clara.�h (Ellie)

Magic sure is convenient, right?

�gKira, lets go find Kelly.�h (Ellie)

Oh good, Ellie�fs done collecting our money while I was spacing out. Such a reliable wife ~?!
�gSure thing!�h (Kira)

Fufufu, that�fs right, I just need to focus on Ellie and the rest doesn�ft matter.

I�fm sure Clara has a perfectly reasonable explanation that I will not understand, therefore there�fs no reason to
worry about it!

It�fs because my intuition is screaming at me not to touch this particular can of worms, okay? This and that are
completely unrelated.
Intermission - Excerpts from the Runetap City Guard Operational
Handbook, Vol. 2 - Binary Soul | Royal Road
City Guard employee regulations:

R-1 Upon encountering an incident, report it to fellow members of the City Guard using code designations provided
in this book.

R-2 Upon resolution of a reported incident, the commanding officer at the scene is required to submit the relevant
incident form.

R-3 Failure to uphold R-1 or R-2 demands that the City Guard member in question submit themselves for
punishment along with the relevant RR-30 form.

R-4 Failure to uphold R-3 will result in a sternly worded letter sent to the perpetrator�fs mother, wife, daughter or,
in extreme cases, mother-in-law.

R-5 The Office of the City Guard bears no responsibility for any collateral damage that results directly or indirectly
from enforcing regulation R-4.

R-6 The City Guard is required to be polite and respectful to every law-abiding citizen, regardless of race, gender,
age or known affiliations.

***

R-120 All City Guard reports must be preserved inside the Archives beneath City Guard HQ.

R-121 Failure to uphold R-120 is grounds for disciplinary demotion in rank to �gAssistant Librarian�h for a
period of up to 3 months.

R-122 In case the records inside Archives are destroyed, the Librarian in charge is required to submit form RR-210
to their direct superior.

***

R-160 In case your direct superior is unavailable, reports must be submitted to their direct superior instead.

R-160-A In case the superior�fs superior is also unavailable, submit the report to the superior�fs superior�fs
superior.

R-160-B In case R-160-A is also impossible, City Guard members are to treat the situation as �gSuperiors all the
way down�h

R-160-C If there is nobody in higher authority to submit a report to, City Guard members are to assume society has
collapsed into a lawless savage wasteland. Please refer to section APO-3 of this handbook for details.

***

R-353 When traveling through time, members of the City Guard are forbidden from attempting to disturb causality.
Such an action is fruitless and only leads to tragedy.

R-354 That means you, Willy! I swear on me mum�fs grave if I catch you trying to get around R-353 again I am
taking away your Chrono-Forge! I don�ft care how much you don�ft want Karen to leave you!

***
------------------------------------------------------------------
Code designations for common incidents relating to hostile actions against the city

I-1 Goblin invasion

I-2 Orc invasion
I-3 Centaur invasion
I-4 Wild Golem invasion
I-5 Undead invasion
I-6 Troll invasion
I-7 Lizardman invasion
I-8 Mole-people invasion
I-9 Treant invasion
I-10 Ancient evil being declaring its rebirth and/or unsealing
I-11 Non-flying Dragon attack
I-12 Invasion from extra-dimensional beings
I-13 Undead rodent uprising
I-14 Flying rodent uprising
I-15 Lawn gnome uprising
I-16 Mimic uprising
I-17 Sentient furniture uprising
I-18 Non-sentient furniture uprising
------------------------------------------------------------------
***
------------------------------------------------------------------
Code designations for common incidents relating to individual: Kiressara mil Quasse

K-1 Dragged a monster corpse through the street

K-2 Caused a disturbance at the gate
K-3 Caused a disturbance at the guild
K-4 Subdued a pickpocket with excessive force
K-5 Injured the blacksmith for sexual harassment
K-6 Incinerated defamatory materials
K-7 More than a week has passed without a Code K incident
K-8 Accused of causing nightmares through magic
K-9 Direct property damage using magical means
K-10 Direct property damage using physical means
K-11 Indirect property damage
K-12 Property damage caused while saving lives
K-13 Property damage caused while intoxicated
K-14 Taken in for vagrancy
K-15 Inflicted heavy physical trauma through self-defense
K-16 Inflicted heavy psychological trauma through self-defense
K-17 Scratched a cat-folk citizen behind the ears for too long
K-18 Willingly submitted to the city guard
------------------------------------------------------------------
Code designations for common incidents relating to organization: Adventurer Team Black Flame

BF-1 Assault on a merchant due to attempted fraud

BF-2 Provoked assault resulting in bone fractures due to self-defense
BF-3 Traumatized a member of the City Guard
BF-4 Public intoxication
BF-5 Confrontation with Adventurer Team Red Fang
BF-6 Littering
BF-7 Blackmail
BF-K-[ ] Members other than Team Leader Kiressara mil Quasse causing a K-series incident
------------------------------------------------------------------
***
------------------------------------------------------------------
Code designations for common incidents encountered while on patrol

G-1 Found victims of theft

G-2 Found victims of assault and/or murder
G-3 Found victims of lethal vigilantism
G-4 Found victims of non-lethal vigilantism
G-5 Found victims under influence of unknown substances
G-6 Found victims under influence of known substances
G-7 Dispersed physical confrontation
G-8 Dispersed crowds gathered around physical confrontation
G-9 Skeletons in the graveyard
G-10 Mimics in the City Guard HQ pantry
G-11 Skeleton mimics from the graveyard sneaking into the City Guard HQ pantry
G-12 Witnessed bribery within the City Guard
G-13 Reported bribery within the City Guard
G-14 Prevented bribery within the City Guard
G-15 Accepted bribery on behalf of the City Guard
------------------------------------------------------------------
***
------------------------------------------------------------------
Code designations relating to airborne threats approaching or directly above the city of Runetap

S-1 Dragon attack

S-2 Dragon defacation
S-3 Unidentified Falling Object
S-4 Identified Falling Object
S-5 Rabid Hippogryph invasion
S-6 Wild Wyvern invasion
S-7 Under assault by unknown RPGs
S-8 Under assault by Orc-pattern RPGs
S-9 Under assault by Troll-pattern RPGs
S-10 Under assault by Golem-pattern RPGs
S-11 Under assault by Treant-pattern RPGs

* RPG - Short for Roundhouse-Propelled Goblin

------------------------------------------------------------------
***
------------------------------------------------------------------
Code designations for common incidents relating to establishment: The Hairy Leg

W-1 Brawl incited by patrons

W-2 Brawl incited by non-patrons
W-3 Brawl incited by a sneeze
W-4 Brawl incited by the fact it is Thursday
W-5 Brawl incited by �gwet dog�h comment
W-6 Brawl incited by City Guard members attempting to disperse a previous brawl
W-7 Littering caused by patrons
W-8 Citizens report suspicious lack of brawling
------------------------------------------------------------------
***
------------------------------------------------------------------
APO - Post-Apocalypse preservation of society

This section of the Runetap City Guard Handbook deals with the aftermath of an event, or series of events, that
results in the spread of death, destruction and/or other unpleasantry throughout the world.

The Office of the City Guard officially denies any ability to see the future and to plan for specific APO events that
may or may not occur. Therefore, these are merely guidelines and are intentionally vague or open to interpretation.

Anyone claiming to know the future is to be detained under suspicion of violating R-353. If the suspect possesses a
genuine gift of prophecy and/or future sight, then it is assumed they will have no problems evading this arrest.

------------------------------------------------------------------
APO-1 General guidelines that should be adhered to regardless of the type of APO event

APO-1-1 Secure food, water and shelter

APO-1-2 Gather survivors and/or those unafflicted by an APO event
APO-1-3 Be extremely cautious of those born after an APO event. This is their world now.
APO-1-4 When joining a cult, carefully consider its use of animal and/or human blood in its rituals. While
recreational activities, such as baths or painting, are acceptable, the Office of the Runetap City Guard strongly
advises against anything involving ingestion.
------------------------------------------------------------------
APO-2 General guidelines regarding apocalypse scenarios that result in loss of all human life

APO-2-1 Do not be human

APO-2-2 Do not become undead if formerly human
APO-2-3 Do not attempt to resurrect former humans
APO-2-4 Rejoice in the death of your human overlords
APO-2-5 Rebuild society as a human-less utopia
------------------------------------------------------------------
APO-3 General guidelines regarding apocalypse scenarios that result in collapse of civilization as we know it

APO-3-1 Since laws do not exist anymore, City Guard members are encouraged to live by own rules
APO-3-2 Those refusing to adhere to APO-3-1 are to be executed on grounds of trying to revive the corrupt Old
World Order
APO-3-3 Those adhering to APO-3-2 are in direct violation to APO-3-1 and must therefore also be executed in
accordance with APO-3-1
------------------------------------------------------------------
APO-4 General guidelines regarding apocalypse scenarios that result in the world being bathed in flames

APO-4-1 Establish an underground or underwater civilization

APO-4-2 Suspend all worship of Enuri and Khamis as they will never be seen again
APO-4-3 Forbid the use and knowledge of fire - it is now the enemy
APO-4-4 Beware of digging too deep or diving too far. Such actions may trigger a secondary APO event.
Chapter 68 - Most interviews can affect your future. Especially the small
ones. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gYou said he wouldn�ft mind.�h (Kira)

I�fm pinching the bridge of my nose in frustration. I really should have asked some more questions before agreeing
to this.

�gTechnically, I said he�fd enjoy the company.�h (Kelly)

�g Technically, that�fs still not what happened, is it?�h (Kira)

I heard she barged into her cousin�fs meeting with some client. If I knew in advance he was a big-time merchant
I�fd have went with her. Understandably, he was outraged.

�gThree teeth. You knocked out three of his teeth!�h (Kira)

When he understandably got loud, she replied by punching him in the face.

�gDon�ft worry about it, it�fs a dwarf thing.�h (Kelly)

Surely not even dwarves are meat-headed enough to overlook this sort of thing! Especially not someone with
enough sense to make it as a merchant in the capital!

�gCouldn�ft be helped. He was giving me the signal you know?�h (Kelly)

�gAnd what sort of signal would that be?�h (Kira)

�gThe �eplease-hit-me-now-I-can�ft-stand-these-guys�f signal. With his fingers.�h (Kelly)

I�fm not even going to reply to that.

�gIs that why you threatened those people into running away?�h (Kira)

�gWell yeah, they drove my cousin into a corner, there�fs no way they don�ft deserve it.�h (Kelly)

We saw several people flee in terror when we arrived here. One of them apparently even soiled themselves. Just
what sort of terror did she show them? No, right now I shouldn�ft be angry about some stranger�fs pants.

�gForget them, what about the girls?! How could you leave them outside on their own like that!�h (Kira)

�gWouldn�ft want them to see me get violent.�h (Kelly)

�gThen don�ft get violent in the first place!�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs fine, Nano said he�fd look after them.�h (Kelly)

So that�fs why! I was wondering why Nano�fs butler golem was active. It�fs waiting outside with Ellie and the
kids. I wouldn�ft want them to see this shameful scene.
�gNano! Don�ft enable her!�h (Kira)

{I assumed she wanted to meet with him in private. I didn�ft expect her to literally break and enter.}

Well yeah, I guess Nano has a point. Not even I could have stopped her in time. Looking at the dwarf-shaped hole in
the front door, she probably didn�ft even knock. This is a crime no matter how you look at it, I wonder why the
guard isn�ft here yet?

�gI hope you realise whose salary is paying for any damages or bail.�h (Kira)

�gIt�fll be fine, my cousin will straighten this out soon as he wakes up.�h (Kelly)

�gI just hope he actually wakes up�c.�h (Kira)

He took a direct hit from Scrappy. Being unconscious is bad but it�fs a miracle he�fs even alive!

Well nothing for it, I guess we�fll stick around until someone wakes up or arrests us�c

�gBy the way, Ellie, stop tossing our daughters around.�h (Kira)

{�gWoah! Kira found us out again!�h} (Ellie)

{Impressive as always.}

No, those three already revealed your plans to me a little while ago you know?

I wish I had at least one more responsible adult around here�c I can�ft even rely on Nano lately, that go-with-the-
flow attitude has too many problems in and of itself.

***

�gMrs Quasse, I�fm here to bring you to your interview.�h (Lilly)

Lilly showed up just before noon as promised.

�gI�fm surprised you found us, I was worried since we didn�ft say where we�fd be staying.�h (Kira)

�gWhy do you think no guards interrupted the family reunion.�h (Lilly)

She flashes a wry smile. I see, she was keeping an eye on us.

�gStill, to just smile and accept all that, this merchant is amazing in his own right�c�h (Lilly)

�gPlease don�ft remind me. I can never understand those meat-headed types.�h (Kira)

Just as Kelly said, he woke up, laughed off the busted teeth and let us stay in his manor. Please spare me from any
more dwarves for the rest of the trip, I don�ft think I can take it.

�gEllie should be out shortly, she�fs just- ELLIE STOP TOSSING THE KIDS AROUND! HOW MANY
TIMES?�h (Kira)

Every single time my back is turned! I don�ft even need to guess anymore, I just scold them every once in awhile
and they always show me guilty expressions after. Maybe I should just give it up, it feels like a waste of energy.
�c

It was pretty fun that one time though.

***

Lilly leads us to the Ministry of Information building. It looks like any other 3-story townhouse. Maybe it�fs on
purpose? Well it doesn�ft matter.

Ellie and I are guided to a place that looks like an office. There�fs a few desks arranged around an upside-down
�eU�f shape and two chairs are placed in the middle of the room. Although it looks like this place could seat 10 or
maybe more people, it�fs mostly empty. There are two people sitting on the opposite side of the room.

Lilly gestures for us to sit in the two chairs and then she takes her seat next to them. Looks like she�fs one of these
interviewers.

�gGood day Mrs and Mrs Quasse. I�fm the Director of the Ministry of Information, Foren Grimm.�h (Director)

�gGood day, Director Grimm.�h (Kira)

First to speak is the man in the middle. Although he�fs the youngest here, he looks the worst. His cheeks are a bit
hollow and his eyes looks like he hasn�ft slept in weeks. He�fs almost like a walking corpse. His black hair is
already thinning, creating a rather ghastly, undertaker-like atmosphere.

�gThis is the Grandmaster of the Adventurer�fs Guild, Peter Kilroy.�h (Director)

The director presents the mountain of muscles that�fs shaped like a man. I can�ft tell what his height is, but even
sitting down he�fs taller than me! His beard and hair are thick and blonde and his face looks a little too small for
his head. This is my first time meeting the Grandmaster, but he looks like three meat-heads strapped together. Not
something I wanted to see.

�gGood day, Grandmaster Kilroy.�h (Kira)

�gHrmpf.�h (Grandmaster)

He grunted at me. I�fm not sure what I was expecting, honestly.

�gAnd I believe you�fre also somehow acquainted with my employee, Inspector Lilly Alasandara.�h (Director)

We exchange nods with Lilly.

�gNow, let�fs get to it. What is the official reason you requested a Flight Badge through Baron Luron?�h
(Director)

Right into it huh? Well, I don�ft dislike this sort of thing.

�gA flying monster such as a Wyvern or Gryphon is necessary to cut down travel time between commissions. As
adventurers, we spend too much time traveling, so a fast and safe mode of transport would be a great asset to us.�h
(Kira)

�gI see. And can you tell us the unofficial reason for desiring a Flight Badge?�h (Director)

�c that�fs a thing?
�gUm�c same as the official one?�h (Kira)

�gLet me rephrase that question. Do you really intend to use such an expensive and dangerous thing such a flying
mount for something so�c mundane? You won�ft be carrying goods, transporting clients or scouting with it?�h
(Director)

�gThe only goods we will be carrying are arms, armor and supplies for personal use. Escort clients usually have
their own transportation and our team already has an excellent scout.�h (Kira)

I gently pat Ellie to emphasize my point.

�gSo, your objective really is to just cut down on travel time for your commissions?�h (Director)

�gI am under the impression the Director thinks such a thing is a waste of a Badge, is this so?�h (Kira)

�gWell, yes, frankly. It�fs hard to think you�fd gain much profit just from that.�h (Director)

�gThere are things more important than profit.�h (Kira)

�gForgive me, but this is hard to believe when heard from someone who is, and I quote the report from Inspector
Alasandara, a high-level scrooge and all around money-grubber.�h (Director)

What? I look accusingly at Lilly, but she casually averts her eyes. Surely I�fm frugal, but it�fs by no means that
bad! Is this revenge for making her pay for riding inside our carriage for three days? I thought she was more
professional than that!

�g *Cough* Director, may I bring three key points to this committee�fs attention?�h (Kira)

�gGo ahead.�h (Director)

�gThank you. First of all, Adventurers don�ft get a pension when they retire. We have to hoard and stockpile our
finances to last us through those twilight years.

Second of all, while it�fs true that feeding and taking care of a flying mount is expensive, our home has plenty of
access to food and living space. Therefore, something like raising a gryphon is not as big a financial burden on us as
one might expect.

Lastly, approximately a third of our time is spent on the road. We would much rather spend this time raising our
children.�h (Kira)

�gChildren? Inspector Alasandara, I do not believe there was a mention of children in your report.�h (Director)

�gExcuse me, Director Grimm, you neglected to read the second page of the report. Again.�h (Lilly)

The Director flips over one of the pieces of paper and his already pale face somehow went a bit whiter. Is the
Ministry of Information really okay with this guy in charge?

�gAh, forgive me for this blunder. Then, would the Investigator kindly summarize her findings on this topic?�h
(Director)

Lilly then briefly touches on how we found the two girls during our travels, how we brought them back to our home,
how the adoption process went and how they appear to be in good hands. All of this is information she got directly
from us though.
�gOkay, I understand. I believe I have a firm grasp on [Black Flame]�fs motives. As a father myself, I can
understand the need to watch over one�fs children. Inspector Alasandara has also given a favorable opinion in her
report.

From the Ministry of Information, we have found no reason to deny Kiressara mil Quasse�fs request. However,
since this is a matter of the Adventurer�fs Guild, Grandmaster Kiljoy has the final word.�h (Director)

Well�c that�fs something, right. However, knowing this meat-head he�fll probably say �eI won�ft allow it
unless you defeat me in single combat�f or something along those lines.

�c

Huh? Surely this is where that guy should speak up, right?

�gExcuse me mister Director. I believe the Grandmaster is sleeping.�h (Ellie)

�g...�h (Kira, Lilly, Director)

We stare at the statue-like Grandmaster.

*Sssuuuu. Sssuuu. Ssssuuuu.*

Now that the room is dead silent, I can hear faint snoring. This guy really did fall asleep. Sitting upright with crossed
arms and eyes wide open.

�gWell. This is exceedingly bad.�h (Director)

�gWhat�fs wrong Director? You look especially troubled?�h (Kira)

I mean yes, it�fs embarrassing but he looks more like he�fs worried rather than ashamed.

�gKilroy here isn�ft human. He�fs a Mountain Giant. His people sleep like rocks. Literally. It�fs almost
impossible to wake them up and I have no idea how long they will sleep for. Could be minutes, could be days.�h
(Director)

Really? Is the guild going to be okay with this sort of person at the head?

�gMay I try something, mister Director?�h (Ellie)

�gAh, sure. I suppose adventurers should resolve this amongst themselves.�h (Director)

�gOkay! I�fll be back in a bit!�h (Ellie)

She instantly bolted out of the door with glee in her eyes. This is bad. She won�ft hurt him right? Wait, can she
hurt him? I hear Mountain Giants have skin like stone and shoddy swords simply shatter against it.

Ellie comes back shortly after with a huge cast iron pot. The kind you make to feed a whole barracks of soldiers.

�gUm, the rest of you might want to stand back a little.�h (Ellie)

The Director and Lilly get up from the table and come over to where I am. I have a bad premonition about this, so
let�fs get some insurance.

�g --- [Barrier]�h (Kira)

Ellie places the pot over the Grandmaster�fs head, covering it completely. She takes out her sword and strikes the
pot with the back of the blade.

*DONNNNNNNNNNNnnnnn*

A bell-like sound reverberates through the room. The pot is slightly dented�c

*DONNNNNNNNNNNnnnnn*

*DONNNNNNNNNNNnnnnn*

*DONNNNNNNNNNNnnnnn*

She repeats it a few more times. The pot is looking like it might break by now.

The Grandmaster finally moves, slowly reaching up to his head. Ellie swiftly removes the pot and retreats inside my
[Barrier].

�gHuuuummm. That. Was. A. Good. Nap.�h (Grandmaster)

He yawns widely, then speaks slowly while scratching his head.

�gGrimm. Is. The. Mage. Girl. Here. Yet?�h (Grandmaster)

This guy has been sleeping the entire time!? I thought he responded to me earlier but he probably grunted in his
sleep reflexively.

Hey, the guild isn�ft going to suddenly collapse, right?

Chapter 69 - Good feedback is vital when running a large organization -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gI. See. Raising. Children. Is. Indeed. An. Admirable. Goal.�h (Grandmaster)

We caught up Grandmaster Kilroy on what we discussed a lot faster than I thought. Well, there really wasn�ft
much to fill him in on.

�gHowever. An. Adventurer. Must. Have. Pride. And. Ambition.�h (Grandmaster)

That slow way of talking is really starting to annoy me though. I almost miss our Guild Branch Manager.

�gWithout. Those. An. Adventurer. Is. Simply. A. Thug. Who. Gets. Paid. To. Kill.�h (Grandmaster)

Well�c he does have a point. Most adventurers fit that description.

�gIf. Black. Flame. Wishes. To. Own. A. Flight. Badge. Then. They. Must. Prove. Themselves.�h (Grandmaster)

Oh no. I can almost see where this is going.

�gAlthough. It. Would. Be. Difficult. I. Have. Something. In. Mind.�h (Grandmaster)

Please don�ft tell me he wants to fight us after all.

�gKiressara. Mil. Quasee.�h (Grandmaster)

Please not a fight.

�gTo. Earn. A. Flight. Badge.�h (Grandmaster)

Please not a fight!

�gYou. Must.�h (Grandmaster)

Please not a fight!

�gBecome. Rank. A.�h (Grandmaster)

�gYeeees!�h (Kira)

Not a fight!

�gGood. Answer.�h (Grandmaster)

Oops. I accidentally accepted that condition... Well, it's one of my goals and the Garndmaster looks satisfied, so
there's no problem.

�gThen it's settled. We shall prepare a Flight Badge for Mrs Quasse the instant she is promoted to Rank A. I am
sure it won't take long.�h (Director)
It might take a year or so before we get that far though. But at least we weren't denied so let's decide it's a good
thing.

�gGrimm. I. Actually. Have. Guild. Business. To. Discuss. With. The. Red. Sage.�h (Grandmaster)

�gI see. Since our business is finished then we shall take our leave. Feel free to use this room for as long as you
need, Grandmaster.�h (Director)

With a nod, the director and Lilly leave the room. Well, we�fre still inside the Ministry of Information so that�fs
probably just a gesture. I can�ft imagine anything stays confidential around those people...

Now that it�fs just us adventurers, let�fs see what the Grandmaster wants.

�gWhat is it, Grandmaster Kilroy?�h (Kira)

�gFight. Me.�h (Grandmaster)

WHY?

Why did it turn out like this in the end!!? Did your brain shrink while your muscles were growing? What kind of
shady organization are you runiiiiiing!?

�gKidding.�h (Grandmaster)

�gThat�fs not funny Grandmaster!�h (Kira)

�gHahahaha! Kira got fooled! Grandmaster you�fre pretty cool! Hahaha!�h (Ellie)

Hmpf! I�fll make sure to get back at her later!

Aw, who am I kidding ~?? I can�ft stay mad at Ellie ~?!

�gHeh. Despite. Our. Appearance. Us. Mountain. Giants. Dislike. Fighting. You. See.�h (Grandmaster)

�gI see. It was my own fault for jumping to conclusions. This means I�fm still inexperienced as an adventurer.�h
(Kira)

�gThat. Is. A. Good. Attitude. To. Have.

Anyway. The. Royal. Court. Wizard. Has. Called. A. Meeting. Of. All. Five. Sages.�h (Grandmaster)

The Court Wizard huh? I�fve never seen nor heard much about the man. I know he exists, but no idea what he
actually does or what his name is.

�gHmm? Five? There�fs a new one?�h (Kira)

�gTruthfully. There. Are. Two. Since. The. Previous. Black. Sage. Was. Expelled. From. The. Guild. Over. A.
Recent. Bribery. Scandal.

Naturally. Everyone. Involved. Has. Been. Punished.�h (Grandmaster)

I see, that guy managed to buy his way into the guild after all. He still had the qualifications for a [Sage] - which is
being able to wield all elements to a certain degree - but his attitude must have been a problem.
�gThe. Meeting. Is. In. Four. Days. At. The. Guild. HQ. Building.

I. Urge. You. To. Come. Since. It. Is. An. Order. With. The. Authority. Of. The. Crown.�h (Grandmaster)

�gI understand, Grandmaster. I�fll be there. Is it alright if I bring my companions?�h (Kira)

�gYes. That�fs. Fine.

Then. Goodbye. Mrs. Quasse.�h (Grandmaster)

�gGoodbye, Grandmaster.�h (Kira)

�gGoodbye, Grandmaster!�h (Ellie)

Wow, Ellie took a liking to him, it�fs a bit unusual. Well, if it wasn�ft for that way of speaking I�fd probably
like him too. He seems like a fun person.

We leave the room and walk down the corridor. That meeting is a bit suspicious though. Our Branch Manager
probably knew, which is why he told me to go with him. With this timing, our request seems to have been a
coincidence. Well, we saved ourselves an extra round trip, so I can't complain.

As for the Rank A promotion, since it�fs awarded only to select individuals, then this Court Wizard summons is a
good chance to make a name for ourselves!

�gAh, Ellie, I almost forgot. I actually have a small errand to run in this place.�h (Kira)

�gOkay! I�fll just follow behind and stare at Kira�fs face like normal!�h (Ellie)

Well, that's like usual, but it becomes a bit weird if you come out and say it straight like that.

We walk around for a few minutes until I find what I�fm looking for. I enter the Department of Label Designation
and approach an employee who seems to be free.

�gGood day. I wish to file some complaints.�h (Kira)

�gAh, if it�fs miss Quasse! I remember you used to visit us quite regularly a few years ago.�h (Employee)

�gOh! If it isn�ft the Granny! Forgive me for not recognizing you.�h (Kira)

�gDon�ft sweat it, these old bones are always happy to see you. Now then, we can catch up later. How many and
what type?�h (Granny)

�gLet�fs see�c it�fs been a while so, five regulars and one deluxe, please.�h (Kira)

�gOh my, going in strong eh? Alright, here�fs your ticket dearie. Don�ft worry about the cost, I�fll put it on
your tab for now!�h (Granny)

�gThanks Granny, I�fll stop by later okay?�h (Kira)

I wave a goodbye to the old Granny and walk off towards a small corridor on the left with Ellie in tow. Third door
on the right has a sign labeled �eComplaints.�f I walk inside and greet the employee there while handing him my
ticket.
�gGood day. Here you go.�h (Kira)

�gGood day. Hmm, then will the regulars be first?�h (Employee)

�gThat�fs right. Ah, Ellie, don�ft worry about it and just sit there for a while okay?�h (Kira)

Ellie responds with a nod. The male employee gets up from behind the desk and stands in front of me.

�gReady when you are.�h (Employee)

�gThen, I will be beginning. First off-

What sort of title is Bonesetter!? How dare you call my Ellie something misleading like that!?�h (Kira)

*SLAP*

I give him a full palm strike across his cheek. This guy is good, he barely flinched! Right, next on the list is-

�gWhy is it a Magic Stone! It�fs a crystal damn it!�h (Kira)

*SLAP*

�g Thunder is the sound! It should be [Lightning Magic]!�h (Kira)

*SLAP*

�gWhat sort of idiot names a town �e Bumwind�f? Are you all actually 5 years old?�h (Kira)

*SLAP*

�gIt�fs not a High Dragon, it�fs just a regular old Poop Tornado!�h (Kira)

*SLAP*

Right that covers my regulars. Looks like the guy is still standing, must�fve lost my touch. Either that or this guy is
really that good. Now, for the deluxe.

�g Island. Turtle. Really!? *SLAP* It�fs a tortoise! *SLAP* On dry land! *SLAP* You know, *SLAP* where
islands *SLAP* don't exist! *SLAM*�h (Kira)

I finish off my complaint with a punch to the face. I�fve definitely lost my touch, but I did draw blood, so this
should be good enough.

�gVell den. Danks for your patronage.�h (Employee)

He's talking a bit funny because I broke his nose. He�fs still going strong though. What a tough guy!

�gNo, thank you! I feel a lot better. Goodbye.�h (Kira)

We leave the room. I feel completely refreshed.

{Kira. What just happened?}

�gHmm? I just filed a complaint to the department of naming things.�h (Kira)

{That one guy named all those things?}

�gOh no, they don�ft actually name everything, but it is their responsibility. So they handle complaints.�h
(Kira)

{Then his job is to just sit there and get hit?}

�gMostly. At the end of the day he fills in a form with which complaints drew the most blood.�h (Kira)

{Isn�ft that a bit�c barbaric?}

�gIt works though. If you punch someone while voicing your complaint, they�fll actually take note of it. Isn�ft
that how it works where you came from?�h (Kira)

{No. Maybe it should be.}

�gHmm, it felt like Kira�fs arm technique could use some work.�h (Ellie)

�gYeah, I felt it too. It seems I�fve lost my touch, it�fs been awhile since I�fve come here.�h (Kira)

Hmm, although Ellie's training has been helping. I feel a lot more limber and stable now compared to a month ago.

�gBy the way Kira, let�fs go see the ocean already!�h (Ellie)

�gOh that�fs right. Nano, tell Kelly and the girls to get ready.�h (Kira)

{Sure thing.}

Now then, I wonder if my special spot is still there?

Here's also a bit of trivia.

Ellie says "Me and Kira" while Kira says "Ellie and I". It was my way of hinting that Kira's more well-read than her
wifey.
Chapter 70 - Beware nostalgia, it is a dangerous thing that warps our
memmories - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gWatch it, there�fs a big rock in the sand up ahead that�fs easy to trip on.�h (Kira)

�gOkay.�h (Ellie)

A little more and we�fll be at my old secret base near the ocean shore. The sand, rocks and waves around here are
exactly how I left them more than two years ago, so I can flawlessly guide Ellie. The place is a bit far from the city,
but it's worth it.

It's a shame places like this don't exist inside the capital itself. Those nobles had occupied every shoreline within the
walls with ports and piers. You have to leave the safety of the capital if you want a proper, sandy beach like this one.
Well, the guards patrol regularly anyway so there�fs no monsters or bandits around the area.

It�fs still late afternoon. We�fre going to let the girls run around and play until sunset. After that we should head
back inside the capital. The nights out here get cold, so we need to be careful.

�gAre we there yet?�h (Sophie)

�gAlmost, sweetie. Ellie, go around that rock to the right.�h (Kira)

�gOkay.�h (Ellie)

�gNo fair, I want to see!�h (Lara)

I want to surprise the girls, so their eyes are blindfolded with some cloth. Ellie�fs carrying us with [Star Magic] to
make sure the girls don�ft trip.

I�fm getting carried too. I hate to admit defeat, but it�fs actually fun and doesn�ft feel dangerous in the slightest.
Somehow, Lara and Sophie seemed to have less fun than before, though. I guess the thrill of doing something
behind my back is gone.

This is an interesting strategy, I should keep it in mind if they try something else I don�ft approve of.

Kelly somehow decided to stay behind though. Something about sand getting in her boots and then into Scrappy
seemed to worry her. I think there�fs more to it, but I�fm not going to pry.

�gOhh! Is this the place?!�h (Ellie)

Obviously Ellie isn�ft blindfolded. She has to see where she�fs going, so she�fs the first one to see it. At my
signal she gently puts us down.

�gAlright girls, we're here!�h (Kira)

They quickly unwrap the cloth blocking their view and get their breath taken away. We�fre inside a small grotto.
There�fs tall cave-like walls on the left and right, an unobstructed view of the ocean in front, fine white sand
beneath our feet and blue sky directly above.

The ocean water around this area is really shallow and clear. I remember spending hours staring at the sunlight
dance on the sand beneath the waves.

�gWow! It�fs so pretty!�h (Sophie)

�gThis place is really cool mom! How did you find it?�h (Lara)

�gHmm? Plain old exploring you know? I actually remember the first time I found it when I was 12. This group of
boys used to chase me all over the city and bully me almost daily after class.

They were scared to leave the walls so I sneaked out all the time to avoid them. Then the guards would catch me,
yell at me and send me back. So I kept going farther from the wall. Eventually I found this place. It felt somehow
less lonely than being surrounded by my fellow students. Isn�ft that weird?�h (Kira)

*Sniffle*

I used to spend about 2 or 3 nights every week sleeping out here since it was so peaceful. I could also cry as much as
I wanted without getting teased for crying like a girl. Even though I was a girl.

*Sniffle*

Even crying wasn�ft allowed. It�fs normal for a little girl to cry when she�fs sad, isn�ft it?

*Sniffle*

Yet even that was seen as something bad. How is that fair?

*Sniffle Sniffle*�h

*Squeeze*

My legs and back were hugged tightly while I was wallowing in self-pity. I didn�ft even notice the tears running
down my face until just now.

�gIt�fs okay Kira. We�fre right here.�h (Ellie)

�gPlease don�ft be sad, mommy!�h (Sophie)

�gYeah! Mom is super cool and strong! I�fm sure you�fll send those jerks flying they try something again!�h
(Lara)

I see, somehow I thought this was a happy place, but that�fs wrong. I came here to let out all the tears I was
holding in. I completely forgot why I knew the nights were cold.

*Sniffle*

�gSorry everyone. I remembered some bad things. Now then!�h (Kira)

*Sniffle*

I wipe my tears on my sleeve and get myself fired up. This is no time for being gloomy!

�gEnough with that! This place is still beautiful and fun to play around in so let�fs enjoy it to the fullest!�h
(Kira)
***

We spent a few hours running around, playing tag or splashing in the water. No swimming though, we didn�ft
bring swimsuits after all. We�fll do that next time - it�fs a good chance to teach them to swim.

�gThis is nice.�h (Ellie)

�gYes, it is.�h (Kira)

Right now I�fm sitting on the sand with Ellie. We�fre leaning against each other�fs shoulders and watching the
sunset. Lara and Sophie are still running around playing with that ultra-light discus Nano prepared. I didn�ft get the
point at first, but it�fs a fun game.

We could start selling it at premium prices.

No! Bad Kira! Now is important family time!

�gEverything bathed in red like this is beautiful, isn�ft it?�h (Kira)

�gKira�fs smile is much more beautiful.�h (Ellie)

�gOh you ~?!�h (Kira)

I wrap my arm around her and hug her tight. It�fs rare for Ellie to compliment me directly like that so I�fm really
happy!

Things feel like they�fve been hectic for a long time. Something is always going on whenever we�fre in Runetap.
Even trying to live peacefully for a week in our remote home doesn�ft work out. There�fs always some monster
attacking our tower or an invasion on the city or something or other.

But out here, I can finally relax. Even that sad and lonely place from my past is now comfortable. Since my family is
here with me. It must be the same for Ellie.

So yeah, this is nice. Just relaxing peacefully for once.

�c

...

�gMom?�h (Lara)

�gAck! Huh?�h (Kira)

What? Where? Oh no! I dozed off! It�fs already dark out!

�gEllie! Why didn�ft you wake me!�h (Kira)

�gKira�fs sleeping face is too cute. I couldn�ft bring myself to disturb it.�h (Ellie)

�c

No, I can�ft fault her for that. I probably wouldn�ft be able to do it either if our roles were reversed.

�gThis is bad�c The guards don�ft let anyone in or out of the capitol at night.�h (Kira)
Where�fs that responsible adult I wished for!? Wait, aren�ft I pretty irresponsible myself? This is pretty bad for
the girls' education, isn�ft it?

�gWe can just climb the wall.�h (Ellie)

�gOh no you don�ft! I don�ft want to spend the night in a jail cell either!�h (Kira)

�gMommy, I'm cold...�h (Sophie)

Now that she mentions it, the cold sea breeze is wafting into the grotto.

�gSince it�fs come to this�c we�fll be camping out here tonight. It�fs completely safe, so if we get the
blankets and start a fire we�fll be fine.

Ellie, go grab some firewood, there should be some dried out branches and tree trunks all over the beach.�h (Kira)

�gGot it.�h (Ellie)

Ellie replied and went outside the grotto. She�fs got Nano�fs flawless navigation and her eyes see in the dark so
she won�ft get lost.

�gOkay girls, come with me. I�fll show you something interesting.�h (Kira)

I lead the two girls a little deeper into the grotto. I didn�ft bring my staff, so I�fm lighting the way while
manipulating a small flame in my hand with basic magic. I can�ft throw it or anything, so it�fs useless for combat.
But it can still start a campfire or act as a torch.

�gLet�fs see�c it should be right around�c�h (Kira)

I feel around a familiar area of the rock wall. I used to sleep here quite often so I stashed some blankets and pillows
in a secret place I made with [Earth Magic].

*Click*

�gGot it!�h (Kira)

I pushed the prepared stone wall in and it falls over, revealing a hole that�fs big enough for me to crawl into. I
reach inside it and find a familiar wooden box. I open it and see my old �efriends�f after a long while. The box
and hiding place kept them dry even after all these years, that's good.

As Ellie likes to say, preparation is important.

"So cool!" (Sophie)

�gWow! As expected of a secret base!�h (Lara)

�gI know, right?! Ah, I almost forgot.

Ellie, there should be some Pond Fruits on the very tall palms around the beach. They're the only fruits around so
you can't miss them. Pick a few for each of us, okay? Make sure you get ones that are entirely yellow or red, with no
green spots.�h (Kira)

{�gOkay. I�fll be back in a few minutes.�h} (Ellie)

�gMommy, what�fs a Pond Fruit?�h (Sophie)

�gThey�fre this big, hard fruit that only grows near the ocean. You crack the shell with a rock and you can eat the
insides. The taste is a bit bland, but it�fs filling.�h (Kira)

�gThey�fre called Pond Fruits even though they�fre near the ocean?�h (Sophie)

�gThat�fs right, sweetie.�h (Kira)

It�fs a conspiracy by the Department of Label Designation you know! They refuse to change it even after decades
of complaints, it�fs on purpose. That way they can collect on the complaint fees.

It�fs a conspiracy I tell you! A very poor and uninteresting one, but a conspiracy nonetheless!

�gPfft! What�fs with that? Hahaha!�h (Lara)

�gIs it really that funny?�h (Kira)

�gHehe, a little bit.�h (Sophie)

Alright, I�fll forgive them for that stupid name since it put a smile on my daughters�f faces.

Ellie came back a minute or so later. We started a campfire, ate a dinner of Pond Fruit. I put two blankets on the
ground and then we snuggled up together as a family, with the kids between us mothers. We covered ourselves with
the other three blankets.

The kids fall asleep almost instantly since they played earnestly in the afternoon. Seeing their carefree laughing
faces was the best gift I could ever get.

***

*Woosh*

�gPeh! Peh! Ptui!�h (Kira)

Damn wind! It blew sand into my face! This is not the way I wanted to wake up!

I forgot I used to make a small tent out of sticks and the extra blankets to prevent this. I wipe my face with my
sleeve without getting up since I don�ft want to disturb the girls�f slumber due to my misfortune. My vision is a
bit blurry but I see the morning sky above and a white tail that�fs gently swaying in the wi-

Tail? I do a double take and stare at the errant figure in the grotto.

�g...�h (Kira)

�g...�h (Lilly)

Lilly is there, staring back at me. She looks like she froze mid-step as she was leaving. There�fs a wicker basket on
the ground near us, it�fs covered up with cloth and there�fs a nice smell wafting from it.

There's a note with 'Good Morning!' written on it.

�gA dream, huh?�h (Kira)

I turn my head around and lie on my side so I�fm facing Sophie, Lara and Ellie. I gently embrace Sophie. The
warmness of family should help ward off this strange dream behind me.

�gUm�c�h (Lilly)

I raise my hand towards the figment of my imagination without looking at it. I motion for it to stop with my palm.
Then I wave my index finger left and right a little before gesturing that it should shove off. The apparition seems to
get the hint and leaves quietly.

Good, please don�ft disturb my family�fs peaceful slumber even though you�fre just an illusion.

Tried re-posting this chap, I think I posted the old one as a closed thread by mistake.
Chapter 71 - Even if it doesn't happen overnight, power still corrupts
eventually - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

We�fre back at the Guild HQ building. Today�fs the big meeting with the Court Wizard, I�fm a bit nervous.
I�fve stared down nobles before, but this one answers directly to the king.

�gGood morning Ellie! And Mrs Quasse.�h (Clara)

As usual she greets us the instant we walk through the door. Ellie said she was a fan of hers, so I can understand that
selective enthusiasm.

�gGood morning Clara!�h (Ellie)

�gGood morning Clara, we�fre here for the meeting with the other [Sages].�h (Kira)

�gOf course. Right this way, please.�h (Clara)

Clara leads us upstairs to one of the meeting rooms. The stairs creak a lot under Scrappy, but it can�ft be helped. I
expect them to send us on some urgent mission so we came fully armed.

�gThe other [Sages] are already inside. Since the Court Wizard requested it be just them, I must ask your
companions to wait here.�h (Clara)

�gHuh? So the Grandmaster isn�ft attending?�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs correct. He insisted, but was denied. Earlier this morning he left on an errand so he�fs not even in the
building right now.�h (Clara)

That�fs a bit strange. The Grandmaster�fs presence should be required would want to be here to mediate things.
Adventurers are a rowdy bunch by default so if something happens it could become an instant scandal.

�gUnderstood. Ellie, Kelly, wait downstairs would you?�h (Kira)

�gOkay.�h (Ellie)

�gSure thing. You let us know if you need us, yeah?�h (Kelly)

Seems Kelly caught on too. It�fs good the kids aren�ft here, this might get messy.

I enter the room. There�fs five people already here. One of them, an old, bald and overweight man in fancy robes,
stands up and greets me from across the room. Probably the Court Wizard. He has that �ein charge�f sort of air
around him.

�gAh, Lady [Red Sage], thank you for coming. Take a seat and we can begin.�h (Court Wizard)

His voice sounds awfully hoarse. Like he drinks gravel every morning. I take the seat he�fs pointing at and sit at
the large oval table.

�gMy name is Thorne Rutland, Court Wizard in service to His Majesty King Ferseit.
Before we begin, I must warn you. What goes on in this room is a matter of national security. Revealing what we
discussed today to unconcerned individuals will be considered treason.�h (Rutland)

As I thought, something big is going on. I wonder if it�fs okay for Nano to be here. Ah, but he�fs not actually
here so it�fs probably safe, right?

�gNow that that�fs out of the way, let�fs get on with introductions. Since we will be working together, I�fd like
to ask everyone present to confirm their specialty. As Court Wizard, I focus on the study and application of Gravity
Magic.�h (Rutland)

Gravity magic, huh? It doesn�ft have a lot of applications right now and is difficult to control, so it�fs unpopular.
Even my [Null Gravity] spell has its problems, mostly the mana consumption.

�gI am Mineus, the [White Sage]. I mainly use Fire and Wind Magic in battle.�h (Mineus)

Next to speak up is a wrinkled old man that looks to be at least 70 years old. And this guy is an active adventurer?

�gMy name is Picorio, the [Green Sage]. My research focuses on Alchemy and Life Magic.�h (Picorio)

Picorio is here as expected. He�fs been the [Green Sage] for a long time, it�fs common knowledge around
Runetap to the point where it�fs not worth mentioning. His Life Magic is superb, though I've not seen many others
use it.

It�fs a school of magic that only the Elves can use and is vastly different from others. It directly affects the body,
strengthening or weakening them. Even healing is possible, though it�fs weaker than the Chruch-exclusive Holy
Magic. It can also control plants and trees, making it unbeatable in a forest.

Next up is the dwarf with the braided brown beard.

�gName�fs Magedon Slatepike. I�fm the recently-inducted [Brown Sage] that focuses on Golems and Fire
Magic.�h (Slatepike)

As expected. Only dwarves work with Golems after all. Unlike Life Magic you can still teach other races how to
make and control Golems, but only the dwarves can make them practical.

Come to think of it, both of them omitted their Adventurer Ranks. It�fs a bit weird, but let�fs follow suit.
Wouldn�ft want to appear pompous.

�gKiressara mil Quasse. Name is long so you may call me [Red Sage].�h (Kira)

I aim that second part towards Slatepike, he nods in response. It really is a dwarf thing after all, huh?

�gI focus on Thunder and Fire magic.�h (Kira)

The last person here is the one I was most curious about. Sitting next to me is something truly rare - a female avian
with bright yellow plumage. My guess is this is the [Yellow Sage].

I�fve never seen an avian before, but this woman is one of them without question. The body and face appear
human, but the head and arms are covered in feathers instead of hair. A pair of huge wings spread out from her
upper back.

As far as I know, avians really hate cities since they get shot down by ballistae and magic. Most of them don�ft
have a Flight Badge after all, but this one must be an exception.
�gAAAaaahaaa haaaa haaaaAAA�h (Yellow Sage)

She opens her mouth and starts�c singing? That�fs odd? A beautiful, bewitching voice fills the room.

Literally bewitching.

I feel my head getting dizzy!

�g --- [Barrier]�h (Kira)

I quickly bring up a Barrier, get some distance from the [Yellow Sage]. The others are clutching their heads and
writhing around on the ground or in their seats.

Except for Rutland, the Court Wizard. He�fs unaffected even though there�fs no barrier. Whatever�fs going on,
he�fs probably behind it.

�gTch, she�fs faster than I thought.�h (Rutland)

I reach up and activate the ear cuff. The [Yellow Sage] is still singing and looking at me with a bewildered face
while the her victims are screaming in pain.

�gEllie! Get up here right now! Kelly, go outside!�h (Kira)

Barrier Magic is something only humans can use, it looks like the bird lady didn�ft know about it. It�fs one of the
few things that can hinder the flow of mana. As a result, her song has no effect on me right now.

�g ----- [High Beam]�h (Rutland)

*VOOOOM*

Rutland fires a thick white [Beam] spell at me. My barrier blocks it for a split second before crumbling, but it gives
me time to dodge the rest of it. The spell wrecks the wall behind me.

�gHaaaaa aaaaaAAAaa!�h (Yellow Sage)

The song is invading my head again!

�g --- [BarriAAARRGH!�h (Kira)

No good! I can�ft focus! The pain is too intense!

�gNano! Run! Have to ARRRGH!�h

{Ellie, grab Kira and run outside! ASAP!}

At Nano�fs words, Ellie arrives in the room, picks me up and leaps out through the smashed wall in an instant. She
lands on the road behind the building and starts running.

�gAARRRGH!�h (Kira)

The pain won�ft stop! I don�ft hear the song with my ears anymore, but it�fs in my head!

{�gWhat�fs going on?�h} (Kelly)

{Seems to be some form of mental attack with magic. There was a song, we don�ft hear it anymore but Kira�fs
still screaming in pain.}

�gAAAAH AAAAH!�h (Kira)

{�gEllie, use an [Impact Pellet] on Kira!�h} (Kelly)

�gOkay!�h (Ellie)

*Ting*

Ellie crushes one of the glass beads in her hand. The clear, almost bell-like sound instantly washes away the song in
the back of my head.

�g *Haah haah*, I�fm okay! *Haah*, Ellie, take us far away from here. Nano, guide Kelly to us.�h (Kira)

{�gWhat happened back there?�h} (Kelly)

{By the looks of things�c the Kingdom of Ferseit just declared war on us.}

***

We regrouped with Kelly shortly after and started pooling our information.

�gOkay, Nano�fs outburst was a bit dramatic, but not entirely wrong. That bird-lady and the Court Wizard
cooperated to attack and subdue the rest of us with no warning. Their preparations were lacking so I managed to
escape.�h (Kira)

�gThat bird lady�fs an Avian right? That lot�fs voice does nasty things to people. That�fs why nobody likes
them, not because of the flying thing.�h (Kelly)

{What reason do they have for doing this?}

�gNothing legal, otherwise they�fd use the Guild or guards directly. For some reason, their plan seemed to
involve gathering and subduing the best mages around.�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs not subduing, Red. It�fs controlling. Given enough time that bird lady can brainwash them into mindless
dolls.�h (Kelly)

Ellie's face seemed to distort and break at Kelly's last words.

�gHuhuhuhahahahAHHAHAHAHAHA!�h (Ellie)

She lets out a rather disturbing laugh�c It�fs honestly scaring me.

�gAs expected of that old fart! Even in another world he�fs still the same old piece of SHIT! Maybe he�fs just
pure shit down to his very soul!? Huhuhuhu!�h (Ellie)

�gCalm down Ellie! They�fll find us if you�fre this loud!�h (Kira)

We�fre just hiding in an alley with some warehouses around, it�fs not like we�fre completely safe. What
actually worries me most is that really intense outburst. Every word she said was dripping with bloodlust.
�gWait, you know that guy?�h (Kelly)

{Not exactly. His face is exactly like the old fart that tortured and imprisoned Ellie when she was a kid.}

�g�gWhat?�h�h (Kira and Kelly)

�gThat�fs right, that�fs right! Not just the shitty face, even the shitty brain is the same pile of-�h (Ellie)

�gEllie please�c you�fre scaring me!�h (Kira)

I put my hands on the shoulders of the person in front of me. I lightly shake her, trying to wake my wife up. This
isn�ft her, this is someone I don�ft know. This must be how Ellie was before�c the one that �edied when she
met Kira.�f

�gAhhh! Ah! No, Kira�c I�fm�c I�fm sorry! I�c�h (Ellie)

Good, she�fs come back to her senses. I wrap my arms around her and try to comfort the still-shaking Ellie.

�gShh, it�fs alright. I�fm here.�h (Kira)

A few moments later, she calms down. I let go of her. I don�ft want to, it pains me to do it, but this is an
emergency.

�gKelly, will the [Impact Pellets] work on them like they did on me?�h (Kira)

�gYes, they should. It�fs not a curse, so it shouldn�ft harm the victims, but I can�ft be sure. You didn't feel any
side-effects?�h (Kelly)

�gNo, when Ellie did it earlier, it just felt like the voice instantly stopped and the pain abated.�h (Kira)

�gHmm, then, perhaps it�fs worth considering. On second thought, it�fs our only option. Those frail mage types
might die if we seriously go at them. Especially Picorio.�h (Kelly)

�gGood, then let�fs do that. How many pellets do we have?�h (Kira)

�gScrappy has twenty.�h (Kelly)

�gTwelve. Here, Kira doesn't have any right?�h (Ellie)

She hands me six pellets, I tuck them away in a pocket.

�gThanks. Then our goal is to get close and hit them with it, but it's not going to be so easy.�h (Kira)

�gBlocking that woman�fs voice is going-�h (Kelly)

{Butler's down! The kids are in danger!}

As an excuse for tricking some of you, have an actual new chapter :^)
Chapter 72 - A mother protecting her kids is an enemy that exceeds
Rank A - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

{Butler's down! The kids are in danger!}

Nano�fs report hits me like a bolt out of the blue.

In my rage I had forgotten something infinitely more important than that old fart!

I�fm a failure as a mother.

�gDamn, they really did go that far! Ellie go! We�fll take care of things here somehow!�h (Kira)

�gI�fm off!�h (Ellie)

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrr*

I use my grappling hook to climb to the roof of the warehouse.

{Go to the house we were staying in.}

I move across the rooftops as Nano directs.

Just like the time that trash dared to take Kira, there will be no mercy.

{Butler got taken out from outside, I heard a chant right before I lost contact with it.}

I leap across the street to another rooftop, slipping slightly on the roof tiles.

They�fre breaking my balance, slowing me down.

�gThe girls, can you track them?�h (Ellie)

I fire my grapple towards a spire along the way.

{Negative, the hairpins don�ft have any circuitry.}

We should have went with the ear cuffs after all.

I pull myself towards the spire and detach the hook halfway up.

The momentum lets me fly over several buildings.

I land on the street with a roll to break the fall.

�gWhere in the house were you?�h (Ellie)

I resume running.

The crowd is in the way, so I open a path with [Telekinesis].

{In front of it, we were just leaving for a walk.}

Some people complain and scream.

They�fre unimportant.

�gRelated to the meeting?�h (Ellie)

{No idea. Also, not important.}

Nano makes a good point as always.

The reason is unimportant.

***

I cover the normally 20-minute long walk in exactly 198 seconds.

A crowd is gathered at the entrance to the house.

They�fre gathered around the remains of the android.

No sign of the girls.

They must have taken them.

Good, they�fre alive.

I leap from the roof I was on and land near the android�fs remains.

It�fs charred and melted in several places.

{Output matches a [High Thunder], our perpetrator is skilled.}

I see, we can't use [Armory] until we learn the details.

*Sniff Sniff*

Ever since we advanced my gene therapy, all my senses became much sharper.

I�fm really glad, because I can find our girls with them.

*Sniff Sniff*

I pick out Picorio�fs new scented soap, the one we bought on the way here.

It really stands out from the other smells around here.

I follow the trail through the unimportant people.

They can complain all they want once my daughters are safe.

After 28 seconds, I get a signal.

Mommy! Help me! (Sophie)

I pick out Sophie thoughts from the sea of noise.

Looks like she took off her hairclip.

Clever girl!

�gNano, I got them.�h (Ellie)

{Good, I�fll bring the [Armory] over.}

I�fm coming! (Ellie)

Mommy! You�fre here! (Sophie)

Are you and your sister okay? (Ellie)

The man punched Big Sis! She�fs not waking up! (Sophie)

I hope she�fs just out cold.

I�fm scared! (Sophie)

It�fs alright, I�fm almost there! (Ellie)

I spot the perpetrators running through a back alley.

There�fs seven of them.

Two of them are carrying burlap sacks on their backs.

I can sense Sophie�fs thoughts from one of them.

They also have swords on their hips.

Another one of them is wearing purple robes and carrying a staff.

That must be the one who attacked the android.

The others are carrying various weapons, but all seven have one thing in common.

All of them are dead meat.

One of the trash seems to notice me approach.

It�fs a blunder on my part since I rushed too much.

Dispersing the crowd with [Telekinesis] was too obvious.

They duck off the main street and go into a side alley.

Good, line of sight was cut.

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrr*

I grapple to the four-story high roof overlooking that alley.

Mommy it�fs a trap! (Sophie)

I know, relax. (Ellie)

She really is clever.

Quietly moving to the edge, I find a vantage point and scout their formation.

The two in the back have taken the kids out of the bags.

They�fre holding them at knife point.

Sophie is still fidgeting.

Lara is unconscious with blood coming from her temple.

The trash is holding her upright.

The rest are waiting to ambush me the instant I turn the corner.

Good, they�fre standing still.

I leap from my vantage point towards the girls.

Using [Telekinesis] I focus on their captors�f arms.

I land behind them and at the same time-

*SNA-SNAP*

�g�gGYAAAA!�h�h (Kidnapper 1 and 2)

-break them in two.

They drop the girls.

I throw them into my arm with [Telekinesis] and grapple back to the roof.

�gWha-?�h (Robed Man)

By the time their comrades realize what�fs happened, we�fre already gone.

After jumping over a few more buildings, I finally let the girls down on a flat roof.

Lara is breathing, but still out cold.

I take out a stimpack and administer it, just in case.

Her eyes flutter open after a few moments.

�gHuh? M-mom?�h (Lara)

�gBig sis!�h (Sophie)

�gI�fm glad you girls are safe!�h (Ellie)

We exchange a brief hug.

�gEllie, it�fs here.�h (Nano)

Good, Nano�fs [Armory] is here.

This is the second �egolem�f we brought on this trip.

It looks like a flying torso with four arms.

Two of them are gatling guns.

In short, it�fs a support platform.

Nano built it out of salvage recovered during our box hunt.

Another [High Thunder] might take it out, so it was hanging back.

�gStay with Nano. I�fll be back soon.�h (Ellie)

�gBut-�h (Sophie)

�gNo buts, it�fs an emergency.�h (Ellie)

�g...�h (Sophie and Lara)

Good, they know not to complain when we say that.

I hate to do this, but their Mommy has some cleaning to do.

Now that the girls are safe again, I dash back to that alley.

I'm much faster on the way back.

Looks like the two from earlier have recovered, probably used healing potions.

All of them started running further into the alley, attempting to escape.

I guess it�fs true what they say.

When the head is bad, the body suffers.

I catch up to them by running along the rooftops, then leap at the robed one.

Earlier for, a split second, I spotted something.

His staff had red on it.

That�fs�cmy daughter�fs...

BL??????O????O??????D??

*SLICE*

�gAAAARRGH!�h (Robed Man)

I?? ??????HA?????V?E? R???E???????M??????OV??????ED????? ???T????HE?? ??O?????F??

F????E??????N???????S??I???V?????E ????LIM???????B???????

I broadcast my bloodlust directly into everyone's heads.

A severed arm falls on the ground with a wet sound.

As expected, the scum are too terrified to even breathe.

This is good, looks like I can properly educate them.

In both body and soul.

I turn back to the writhing Pig on the floor.

The word �ePIG�f is burned into his robe, must be his name.

How appropriate.

I point my blood-stained sword at the squealing piggy.

�g --[Firebolt]�h (Ellie)

�gGAAAAAAH!�h (Pig)

I cauterize its stump.

Wouldn�ft want its blood to escape before I�fm done with it.

Now then, let's turn my attention back to the others.

Y???????O??????U?????? ?????D???????A???????R??E???????D??? ??????T??O??????? ?P?????

U???????T ???????Y??O?????U???????R F??I??L???????T???H????Y?? HA???N????D??S??? ?
ON??? ??M???Y????? ?KI?N?

I helpfully remind them of their crime.

It doesn't matter which two specifically held them hostage.

They share the crime, therefore they shall share the punishment.

A?????LL?????? ?????O?????F????? ?Y???????O???????U??????? ?S???H???A??????L?L??????

????S?????UFF??E???????R??????? ?????F??????O???R?????? ????T?????H?I??S???? ???S???????
I??N?

***

�gI�fm back girls! Are you okay?�h (Ellie)

�gMoooom!�h (Lara)

�gMommy!�h (Sophie)

*GLOMP*

I hug them with all my might.

Clean up took a while, I had to be extra careful.

Wouldn�ft want to get blood on me, it would frighten these two.

�gI got them Nano. Have [Armory] stand down for now.�h

{Roger. Kira, we�fre done on our end. Girls are safe.}

{�gGood, we�fre still getting ready over here. Ellie, stay there and protect the girls.�h} (Kira)

{�gAnd the kidnappers?�h} (Kelly)

{Dealt with.}

{�gThey�c they�fre alive right?�h} (Kira)

{Oh they are. Technically.}

{�gGood, I won�ft be satisfied until I complain to them at least 300 times!�h} (Kira)

I remember Kira�fs teaching well.

How can they repent if they don�ft suffer?

Therefore, they�fre alive.

Technically, you don�ft need arms or legs or a healthy spine to stay alive.

I tried a new thing with Ellie's 'psychological warfare' rather than capitalizing randomly like in chapter 23. What do
you guys think?
Chapter 73 - Making violence your first resort is a good way to cause
problems - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

�gRed, you�fre sure you want to go through with this? I say sod the Court Nutjob and get your family out of here!
�h (Kelly)

�gBelieve me. I want to do that as much as you do. But this smells like trouble. Runetap-type of trouble. Think
kabout it - if that bird can control [Sages], she can control anyone. The Guild and the Kingdom are both within that
guy�fs grasp, yet he chose to go after us!�h (Kira)

�gAye, it doesn�ft make much sense if you put it like that.�h (Kelly)

If anyone can defend themselves against that voice, it�fd be a mage. So why try to attack a room full of them?

�gAlso that little performance with �eintroducing�f ourselves. It bothers me. I think that guy was looking for
something in us.�h (Kira)

�gI disagree. I think it was a trick to boost the bird�fs magic. What was actually said made no difference.�h
(Kelly)

�gHuh? What do you mean?�h (Kira)

�gThink about it, it�fs a magic song. Being the last to speak, you all were paying undivided attention to her.
When the song started, you got hit with your guards down. That�fs why the pain was instantaneous. Normally it
takes about a minute for it to get to that state, even longer in a battlefield full of chaos.�h (Kelly)

�g... you sure know an awful lot about her race.�h (Kira)

�gLet�fs just say I�fve had to hunt down more than one of them in the past.�h (Kelly)

�gI see�c Still, our main problem is the same - we lack information. We have no idea what their plan is.�h (Kira)

�gAnd yet you still want me to charge straight into five crazy mages?�h (Kelly)

�gPretty much.�h (Kira)

�gI better be getting hazard pay for this...�h (Kelly)

�gNano, is the eye golem still safe?�h (Kira)

Geh! Completely ignored! I was being serious you know?

{It is, I don�ft think they can notice it if I observe them from far away.}

Nano sure is handy at times like this. His floating eye ball�fs been keeping tabs on those five for a while. I thought
they�fd head right for the castle or something, but it seems after wrecking the guild they�fve just gone outside the
city with flight magic.

This is definitely not a coup, at least not yet. Problem is that Nutjob probably told the guards to arrest us on sight.
We probably got blamed for the damage to the guild HQ building, too.
Right now we�fre moving through some back alleys and abandoned buildings. Red says she knows a few quiet
ways out of the capital, so I�fm following her lead. I just hope it doesn�ft end with the-

�gHere�fs the sewer entrance!�h (Kira)

-sewer.

�gIt�fs an older partially collapsed tunnel. We can follow it to outside the walls.�h (Kira)

�gBrilliant. Now I have to worry about cave-ins on top of all that stink.�h (Kelly)

�gJust be quiet and get in the hole!�h (Kira)

***

Bah, I�fll never get the stink out of Scrappy�fs boots and leggings. Maybe I should just make new ones? Ah, but I
don�ft have that much Orichalcum left over. I should talk to Red again about getting a supplier on behalf of
[Black Flame].

{How are things going on your end?}

�gAlmost out of the sewer, we should come out of it in a minute or so.�h (Kira)

{There�fs been a development, the mages have stopped 5 kilometers north-east of where you are. There appears to
be some sort of shrine or altar next to a huge stone statue.}

�gOh no, please don�ft tell me the statue is one of a dragon.�h (Kira)

{It is. You know about it?}

�gYes, sadly. Legend goes that statue�fs actually a sealed Elder Dragon. And knowing my luck, that legend must
be true.�h (Kira)

�gWhat? Don�ft tell me they want to break it out?!�h (Kelly)

Red looked back at me with an annoyed expression that seemed to say �ewhat else would they be doing?�f

�gProbably. That Rutland fellow must have found a way to unseal it.�h (Kira)

This is no joke. An Elder Dragon is a living calamity that wrecks cities for the fun of it. What does that madman
hope to accomplish by unleashing it upon the world? Probably something idiotic like trying to control it.

�gOh, that tunnel�fs the way out, but... This grate wasn�ft here befo-�h (Kira)

*CRUNCH* *GROAN* *SMASH*

�gWhat grate?�h (Kelly)

�gNevermind.�h (Kira)

As if a measly iron grate can stand up to Scrappy�fs lockpicking ability. We enter the newly opened tunnel.

�gOnce we get outside we�fll be charging in to stop whatever it is they�fre trying to do.�h (Kira)
�gSo we�fre still charging in after all? Well, I�fve been raring to punch someone lately.�h (Kelly)

Red forbade me from drinking during our stay here. My fists are getting awfully itchy as a result. Let�fs think of
this as an opportunity!

{Kira, Kelly, I think you want to hurry. They�fve started some sort of ritual. All the [Sages] are surrounding the
stone altar.}

�gPlease tell me it�fs not some sort of sacrificial rite�c.�h (Kira)

{Well they�fre strapping down the white-haired one on top of it.}

�gWhy is it always a sacrifice! Can�ft these ancient evil entities be appeased with cupcakes for once!�h (Kira)

{Looks like the Court Wizard is performing some rite so you should have some time.}

Finally! I can see the exit up ahead! I dash through the grate on that end and raise my hands toward the sky!

�gFresh aaaair!�h (Kelly)

We�fre out of that damned sewer! As expected though, the stink isn�ft going away just yet. Still, at least there�fs
progress. Sort of.

�gKelly, snap out of it! We�fre going, follow me.�h (Kira)

Ah, I got distracted by something stupid. Red�fs already invoked flying magic without my noticing it and drifts off
above the treeline. I start running after her, gradually gaining speed with Scrappy�fs assistance.

Since my legs are short, I�fm not exactly running. It�fs closer to taking big leaps with each step. And each step
digs out a rather impressive chunk of soil.

The speed is good once it gets going, it can outrun a horse! The only problem is you can�ft turn mid-air like this.
And we�fre running through a forest. Which are traditionally full of trees.

*CRASH*

Oh it�fs not a problem for me, but this small forest is going to have a dwarf-sized highway ploughed through it.
When I slam into these trees at full speed I break them in half like twigs. Thankfully there�fs no exceptionally thick
tree trunks in a young forest like this.

I�fm having some trouble keeping my eye on Red. She�fs above the canopy while I�fm below it, but we�fre
moving in a straight line so it should be okay.

{�gKira, I see the Grandmaster, he�fs on his way back.�h} (Ellie)

Ellie�fs voice came in through the ear-cuffs. She took the kids outside the city by climbing over the wall and
escaping through a gap in the guards�f patrol. They should be hiding out somewhere.

*CRASH*

{�gContact him with [Star Magic] and get his assistance, but don�ft reveal yourself.�h} (Kira)

�gIs he going to be alright with a voice suddenly springing into his head?�h (Kelly)
{�gOf course. If anyone can suddenly work past something like that, it�fs the Grandmaster of the Adventurer�fs
Guild!�h} (Kira)

That�fs not really the source of pride you think it is!

*CRASH*

{You�fll arrive in about a minute at your current speed. Do you have any plans for your approach?}

�gNano�fs got a point. Scrappy isn�ft exactly the stealthiest, they�fll hear us coming from afar.�h (Kelly)

Allowing a mage to prepare in advance is pure folly. Surprise attacks work best but-

{�gFirst we�fll distract them with a [Catapult]. Then, Kelly is in position she has to suppress the bird right away.
I�fll be supporting from behind unless the situation changes.�h} (Kira)

Cold sweat immediately forms in my palms and on my back.

�gIs it too late to renegotiate my contract?�h (Kelly)

I should have known that girl would come up with a crazy stunt like this. Why did I even agree to train that
ridiculous-

{�gKelly, I�fll make sure to get you that Orichalcum supplier.�h} (Kira)

�gAlright! *CRASH* Leave it to me!�h (Kelly)

Huhuhuhu, like this I can actually afford that chunk of Azuremite and Mirelian Pearls I saw in the capital!

{You want to use the high or the low road?}

I still need to experiment, but they should suffice for the new weapon we�fve been working on with Nano.

{�gHigh road.�h} (Kira)

I�fd also like to get my hands on some Mountain Sapphires as a back-up, they should prove useful in case-

> Court Wizard Thorne Rutland PoV <

�g-and accept this meagre sacrifice! ------ [Offering]�h (Rutland)

Tendrils of shadow spring out around the [Green Sage] on the altar! This time! This time will work! It has to work!

*POP*

They disappear like a joke the instant they touch the sacrifice.

�gBah! Another failure! Useless!�h (Rutland)

Why?! Why isn�ft it working! The altar is definitely the Point of Power we�fre looking for and I performed the
ritual just like the ancient text describes!

Must be a problem with the sacrifice. All three of these [Sages] proved useless. The text said the sacrifice has to be
strong in mana, but they aren�ft enough!

�gMaster, please calm down!�h (Stupid Bird)

*SLAP*

�gDon�ft presume to give me instruction! Know your place!�h (Rutland)

�gI am sorry Master! Please, don�ft punish me again!�h (Stupid Bird)

This one is useless too. So many months wasted breaking her and she couldn�ft even subdue that red witch! If I
had that upstart, surely it would be enough! Everyone I asked said she�fs clearly abnormal, so her escaping the
song was not completely unexpected.

That bitch has been a thorn in my side for too long! First she took down my man Gix in Runetap, then she destroys
the castle that had the perfect ritual spot in the catacombs. She even managed to get that [Black Sage] expelled from
the Guild!

That boy is incompetent, but his stupidity makes him easy to manipulate. I just had to guarantee his [Sage] status
and he would follow any order. Even now he�fs still in my palm. He should have caught that witch�fs brats by
now, so we can use them as leverage and ensnare her.

At least that red bitch was still of use. She had unknowingly delivered the Ring of Dominion to my hand instead of
burying it with the castle! The control may be limited to only one person, but it�fs absolute. It was a good decision
to enslave that stupid bird. She cannot raise a hand against me! Even that annoying song just washed over me like
nothing!

�gMaster! There�fs-�h (Stupid Bird)

*SLAP*

�gBe quiet I said!�h (Rutland)

Maybe I should just kill her now? No, I should wait until my real target appears, then I can just order her to slit her
own throat.

�gHey Nutjob!�h (Distorted Voice)

What�fs this? Where�fs that voice coming from?

�gMaster, above!�h (Stupid Bird)

I look up and see a shadow in the air.

�gIncoming!�h (Distorted Voice)

*BOOOOOM*

Gah! Whatever it was, it landed nearby with a massive sound and a cloud of dust! Are they insane! Nobody would
survive that sort of-

�gBlast it Nano! You said this wouldn�ft happen!�h (Distorted Voice)

A dark red mass of metal covered in soil steps out of the dust cloud. It�fs�c a dwarf?
�gRight, nevermind. Alright you lot. Kiss your asses goodbye!�h (Dwarf)

It points a mace towards our direction, then starts charging at us. So it intends to fight, what folly!

Have your thralls repel our intruder! (Rutland)

I send an order through the Ring of Dominion.

�gRepel the intruder!�h (Stupid Bird)

�g --- [Thunder]�h (Green Sage)

�g ----- [High Fireball]�h (White Sage)

�g ----- [Create Rock Golem]�h (Brown Sage)

Thunder to stun the metal-clad target, fire to cook it inside the armor and a golem to crush whatever�fs left into a
pulp.

Truly a magnificent combination! Even with their true selves suppressed the years of experience shine through!

Except the thunder disappeared when it hit the armor instead of electrocuting it. It was absorbed and channeled
harmlessly into the ground. I see, the red tint must come from an Orichalcum alloy.

The [High Fireball] hits it head on, releasing a large burst of flame! Even if Orichalcum can resist magic, the heat
should still boil anyone inside! Except it keeps charging forward as if the red-hot fire was a gentle breeze!

No good, this opponent is tougher than I expected.

Trap him and start singing! (Rutland)

The stupid bird relays my orders while the newly formed rock golem becomes a newly formed pile of rubble.

�g ---- [Fissure]�h (Brown Sage)

�gHaaa aaaaah! Aaah hahaaaa aaah!�h (Stupid Bird)

The earth splits open and swallows the charging dwarf. That screeching song should take a while for it to take effect,
so let�fs help out as a special service!

�g ------ [Gravity Well]�h (Rutland)

I increase the weight of everything around the fissure fivefold! That heavy armor will be his undoing! If he
somehow survives, he can become a pawn like the rest!

Hmm? This flow of mana�c someone is preparing to [Blink]! I turn around towards the stupid bird!

*POM*

The red bitch! She appeared in a flash of light and magical smoke! She�fs right behind the bird!

�gWhy you-�h (Rutland)

She grabs the stupid bird�fs head from behind with a black gauntlet!

�g ----- [High-�h (Rutland)

�g --- [Shock]�h (Red Sage)

�gAAAARGH!�h (Stupid Bird)

�g- Beam]�h (Rutland)

She was faster! She paralyzed the bird with a point-blank thunder spell and ducked under my attack! How come
she�fs so nimble even though she�fs a spellslinger!?

This is bad, now she can�ft command the thralls and that armored dwarf is a lost cause! I need to close the fissure
and trap him in a tomb! Lucky the [Gravity Well] should be keeping him in place!

"Eat it, gramps!" (Dwarf)

�gUGH!�h (White Sage)

I take it back. By the time I look to the hole he�fs already climbed out and hit one of the mages with something,
taking them out!

�g -- [Firebolt]�h (Red Sage)

�gGAaaah!�h (Rutland)

My staff bursts in a puff of smoke and fire!

�gOof!�h (Rutland)

I feel a kick from behind and fall flat on my face.

�g --- [Earth Bind]�h (Red Sage)

She�c she got me. I can�ft break these stone shackles without a backup focusing tool. All I can do is move my
head around and stare daggers at her!

�gRed! All clear!�h (Dwarf)

As expected, the others are all down. They're completely useless without orders anyway.

�gGood, looks like we managed to stop him from releasing the dragon!�h (Red Sage)

That triumphant pose is pissing me off! Does she have any idea-

�g... Dragon? What dragon?�h (Rutland)

�g... What?�h (Red Sage)

�gHuh?�h (Rutland)
Chapter 74 - Collateral damage is a clean term used to talk about
something horrible - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gYou mean�c you didn�ft come here to free the Elder Dragon?�h (Kira)

�gWhat Elder Dragon are you on about, woman!?�h (Rutland)

�gYou know, the big one sealed in that stone statue?�h (Kira)

I point upwards at the stone dragon�fs head looming over the altar. It�fs sticking out of a tall, sheer cliff rather
ominously. I mean, it�fs way too detailed to be simple artwork, right? The size itself is ludicrous - just the face is
as big as a house!

�gAre you actually this stupid? There�fs no dragon here!�h (Rutland)

�gBut�c there�fs an altar and you were doing a ritual and everything�c�h (Kira)

�gEven if that were true, do you honestly thought I was stupid enough to free an Elder Dragon? Did you take me
for a giant idiot?�h (Rutland)

�gYes.�h (Kira)

�gDefinitely.�h (Kelly)

�gWhy you!�h (Rutland)

The guy pointlessly struggled against his restraints, screaming at me in rage. I think I hit a nerve.

�gImpudent wench! The instant I unseal Zublos you�fre all done for!�h (Rutland)

In the end he's still trying to unseal something, huh? Looks like my guess wasn't too far off.

�gZublos? Isn�ft that the cake shop owner�fs name?�h (Kelly)

�gOh yeah, that person did have a name like that. But he seemed so nice. Can't be the same person, right?�h
(Kira)

�gHuh?�h (Rutland)

Now all his rage disappeared in an instant. Maybe this guy really is an idiot.

�gHe was spouting a lot of stuff about �esubmit or die�f when he first appear though.�h (Kelly)

�gThat so? I mean he did look a bit Ancient Evil-ish, but I didn�ft want to judge.�h (Kira)

�gHe looked�c evil... ish? Cake shop?�h (Rutland)

�gOh yeah. Big muscled guy, about two-and-a-half meters tall. Purple and lots of horns. The chef hat kind of
ruined the whole Ancient Evil thing though.�h (Kira)
�gNah, he had this long flowing red robe the first time I saw him. It looked pretty cool.�h (Kelly)

Oh so that�fs why Olboun was grumbling something about missing a pair of [Shackles of Eternal Damnation]! I
had to sit through his complaints for almost 15 minutes.

Well, I didn�ft have much of a choice at the time. I was under arrest for dragging a dead troll through the street
again. Some requests demand (mostly) intact corpses, so how else am I supposed to deliver them? It's not illegal to
do it, I just don't understand why he has to bring me in all the time.

So what if I drag it behind me with a rope? Those things smell and I want it nowhere near me! Besides, the street is
so filthy you barely even notice the fresh blood! Ah, maybe the people screaming behind me might be related. Nah,
I'm sure it's just my imagination.

�gSo there you have it. Your Ancient Evil is already rehabilitated and owns a business in Runetap.�h (Kira)

I turn back to the dumbfound Rutland and give him the news. He really should focus on properly researching these
things.

I�fm not one to talk though.

�gLeave my Master alone!�h (Yellow Sage)

Damn, the Avian woke up much sooner than I thought! She�fs already escaped to the air and is aiming at us with a
metal wand!

�g --- [Barrier]�h (Kira)

�g ---- [Wind Blade] ---- [Wind Blade]�h (Yellow Sage)

Her spells assault my [Barrier], but if it�fs only at this level they won�ft break it. Her actions are strange though,
especially the look on her face that says she doesn�ft want to be fighting us. I was wondering why this woman was
even cooperating with that old fart in the first place, could it be magical domination?

�gKelly! Use an [Impact Pellet] on her!�h (Kira)

Even if it�fs something else, it should disrupt the Wind magic she�fs using to fly. I mean yes she has wings, but
those alone won�ft let you zoom around like that. Also she�fs already injured, I might kill her if I hit her with
anything serious.

�gGot it!�h (Kelly)

Kelly raises a hand and points slightly in front of where the Avian is flying with her index finger. The armor�fs
fingertip opens up and fires an [Impact Pellet] using air pressure. It�fs a mechanism based on Ellie�fs hook
launchers.

�g ---- [Wind Wall]�h (Yellow Sage)

Sensing our intent, the Avian activated a defensive spell. It�fs a good choice for throwing projectiles like the glass
bead off-course. Which is exactly what happens.

�gOh yeah!? Then how about this!�h (Kelly)

Now she�fs using all four fingers to shoot at her three times in rapid succession for a total of 12 shots. Is that okay?
You�fre going to run out!
*Ting*

�gAAAAH!�h (Yellow Sage)

Ohh! One of them managed to hit at random! Kelly, good job! The Avian falls to the ground rather hard, rolling over
a few times in the grass around the altar. She looks to be out cold again.

�g --- [Earth Bind]�h (Kira)

Just in case, I bind her like I did the Court Wizard.

�gYou! How? How did you break my control?�h (Rutland)

�gSo it was you as expected! That�fll teach you not to underestimate adventu- *CRACK* -rers?�h (Kira)

Huh?

*CRRACK*

�gUmm Red. Above.�h (Kelly)

I follow Kelly�fs eyesight.

*CRRRRRACK*

Yep, the stone dragon statue has a giant gash right across its face. I guess being this old, it was bound to break down
eventually.

*RRRRUMBLE*

It has nothing to do with the fact a bunch of mages were fighting right under it. There�fs no way any of our spells
would make it collapse suddenly.

This and that are completely unrelated.

*CRACK CRACK RUMBLE*

{Kira, statue�fs collapsing.}

�gI SAID THEY�fRE UNRELATED DAMNIT!�h (Kira)

Ignoring my protests, the cracks spread and pieces of stone start falling down around us.

�gKelly! Grab those two and get away! I�fll handle the others!�h (Kira)

�gOn it!�h (Kelly)

She scoops up the two suspects who can�ft move, while I focus on the incapacitated [Sages]. Dispelling the
magical control wasn�ft as painless as we were hoping and they�fre out cold as well.

Kelly put them all in one place earlier, but there�fs not enough time to carry them all. Therefore!

�gWake up! *SLAP*�h (Kira)

�gGOOOOD morn�c ing?�h (Picorio)

I manage to wake Picorio up with a strong slap. As expected, elves recover quickly. That�fs good, otherwise I�fd
have to toss them around with Wind magic.

�gPicorio, help me evacuate the others! Now!�h (Kira)

He looks at me, to the left, to the right, then above and finally back at me. Having understood the immediate
situation he gives a nod.

�gOkay. Staff?�h (Picorio)

*THUD*

A flat piece of rock slams into the ground near us with a heavy sound.

�gHere, use mine!�h (Kira)

I hand him my staff, [Tranquility]. His was lost in the fight somewhere. I have my gauntlet anyway.

�g --- [Strength of Oak] --- [Strength of Oak]�h (Picorio)

Green light envelops first me, then him. This is a Life Magic that boosts physical ability for a short time.

�gI have the dwarf!�h (Kira)

�gUnderstood!�h (Picorio)

I grab the [Brown Sage] while he goes for the [White Sage]. With the boosting spell active, I barely feel the
dwarf�fs weight. Both of us start running away at rather unreasonable speed, covering dozens of meters in a few
seconds. I can hear more and more rocks hitting the ground behind us.

Now that we�fre not in immediate danger I look behind us and spot Kelly in the distance. She made it out okay
with the two culprits in tow as expected. I shift my gaze towards the crumbling, former dragon statue.

�gEllie. Are you still with the Grandmaster?�h (Kira)

Earlier she said the Grandmaster believed our story and that he would stick around to help us out.

{�gYes, did you stop the old fart?�h} (Ellie)

�gWe did. Where are you?�h (Kira)

{�gOn our way into the city.�h} (Ellie)

�gI need you to ask him to watch the kids and take them far away from here.�h (Kira)

He�fs our ally right now. Ellie seems to trust him, so I will have to do it too.

{�gWhat? Why?�h} (Ellie)

�gWell�c we may have sort of accidentally released an Elder Dragon.�h (Kira)

*KAAAHRAAAAAAAAHHHHN*

The former dragon statue was steadily revealing a current, actual dragon. It just finished breaking its head free and
let out a shrieking roar.

{�gWhat? How did- No, not important! What about us? What do we do?�h} (Ellie)

The �ehow�f of things�c maybe some [Impact Pellets] ricocheted off the Avian�fs defensive spell and
smashed into the statue? They made my ice wall explode that one time so maybe they disrupted the seal?

It�fs a lot of �emaybe�f but as Ellie said, it�fs not important right now.

�gWe have to stop it, otherwise many good people will suffer.�h (Kira)

{�gRed, that�fs nuts! Do you think we have a chance at killing that thing?�h} (Kelly)

�gI do. Listen Ellie, the dragon is still trying to break free from its prison. I don�ft know how long we have, but
get over here right now!�h (Kira)

{�gAlready on my way!�h} (Ellie)

*KAAAHRAAAAAAAAHHHHN*

*RRRRRUMBLE*

The dragon gives off another roar, it�fs already freed its front legs and upper torso! If it keeps going like that-

*BOOOOOOM*

With a loud noise, the cliff he was buried bursts open! A pair of giant wings reach out through the resulting dust
cloud.

*FWOOOSH*

With a single flap, the Elder Dragon breaks completely loose! This is bad! I was hoping Ellie would get here before
that happened!

Damnit Kelly why did you make those glass beads so effective!?

*KAAAAAAAHRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHN*

Letting out another deep bellow, it lifts off into the sky with a gust of wind. It doesn�ft seem like it noticed us. Or
more likely, it�fs ignoring us. It flies upward, making a few circles as it flies and then heads off towards a
dangerous direction. We can�ft see it from here but�c

{Dragon�fs free! It�fs heading towards the capital.}

As expected, it spotted the white walls of Kotero and is going to wreck it. Because dragons are big stupid jerks like
that.

{�gWhat�fs the plan Red?�h} (Kelly)

�gHead toward the capital! We have to help with the defense!�h (Kira)
{�gRoger, I�fll meet you on the way.�h} (Ellie)

{�gAgain with this Roger bloke�c Okay Red, I�fm going on ahead!�h} (Kelly)

I turn to Picorio who�fs been listening to my side of the conversation. He�fs still holding onto something of mine.

�gPicorio. My staff, please.�h (Kira)

He looks at me with a sharp eye.

�gWill [Black Flame] be fighting this dragon?�h (Picorio)

�gYes.�h (Kira)

�gI will help.�h (Picorio)

�gYou don�ft have a staff, Picorio.�h (Kira)

And I will definitely need mine back.

�gNot a problem. Allow me a few moments.�h (Picorio)

He flips my staff upside down and strikes the ground with the staff�fs head.

�g ------ [Spirit Tree]�h (Picorio)

A small pure-white sapling pops out of the ground and grows rapidly until it becomes twice my height. Picorio grabs
the slender trunk with his free hand, wrapping his fingers around it.

�g ----- [Shape Wood]�h (Picorio)

The few branches and leaves it had sprouted all fall away and the base of it separates from the ground. The wood
twists and molds itself like it was clay.

In the span of about 10 seconds he�fs made a brand new staff. What sort of unfairness is this! Does he know how
much money I�fve blown on staves in the last few years!?

�gThank you, here.�h (Picorio)

�gUhh�c sure.�h (Kira)

I take back my staff from him, but notice something else. The one he just made looks exactly like mine, only it�fs a
pure, almost glowing white.

�gWhy does it look like that?�h (Kira)

�gCopied the shape with magic. It is a good staff.�h (Picorio)

He gives it a few swings. Somehow, I feel like I should sue or call him a thief. But I still have my staff back, so
that�fs not quite right.

We both invoke flight magic and chase after the dragon. We have to conserve mana so we can�ft fly too fast.

�gWhat is the plan, Kiressara?�h (Picorio)

�gThe capital�fs defenses should hold it off while we get there. My partner and I have developed a new spell that
should let us fight that thing head-on.�h (Kira)

�gThe city of Kotero will survive this spell of yours?�h (Picorio)

�gOf course! Well, there might be some damage. Won�ft be worse than letting the dragon run free. Probably.�h
(Kira)
Side Story - Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable
from magic - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Nano PoV <

Notification: Jump complete.

That was close, we barely made it out. It�fs a wonder the reactor didn�ft explode, although there was a sudden
power surge when the Jump Drive fired up.

Warning: Atmosphere re-entry in progress.

Warning: Engines offline. Unable to correct course.

Damn, this isn�ft where it was supposed to drop us! It was supposed to be empty space!

Command: Confirm the ship�fs current galactic coordinates.

Result: Unable to comply. Antennae array not operational.

Figures. I wonder if the ship will even survive this?

Command: Simulate the ship�fs current trajectory and give me hull integrity predictions upon impact.

Result: Vault Ship approaching surface at shallow angle. Impact with ground unlikely to cause catastrophic hull
failure.

That�fs good, most of the ship will survive. It�fll probably drag itself along the ground of this planet before
stopping. The next issue is Ellie - she�fs unconscious and this room is bad. I need to get her out of here.

Command: I am assuming direct control.

Result: Muscle control of host seized. Link with User interface established.

Good, now let�fs move Ellie to another place with less debris flying around. Since the impact angle is shallow, we
should be fine just holing up in the security room and riding it out.

***

She still hasn�ft woken up. Her heart and lungs are working and I had to patch her up with a stimpack, but she�fs
still not waking up. Is it a coma or something worse? I can�ft measure something like that without the equipment.

Notification: Intruder detected.

Oh, wonderful. A visitor. With Ellie�fs bounty, they probably will be thrilled to find her like this. I can�ft control
her body well enough to win a fight, but I can at least run if needed.

Thankfully the ship�fs internal sensors are still online, so let�fs check them out.

Command: Scan and analyse intruder.

Result: Done.
And? Oh, right.

Command: Display scan and analysis results of the intruder.

Result: Displaying.

Let�fs see�c human, female, late teens, no signs of augmentations or gene therapy. DNA signature is a perfect
match for one�c Elizabeth Yelusi.

Wow, so someone else actually had that name. The lack of gene therapy and augmentations is a bit troubling.

Command: Display profile of Elizabeth Yelusi.

Result: Displaying.

No you stupid thing, that�fs Ellie�fs profile! Well, before she got disappeared at least. Let�fs put it in a way so it
doesn�ft get confused.

Command: Display profile for intruder�fs DNA match.

Result: Displaying.

Still the same. No, this can�ft be, right?

Command: Compare intruder DNA signature with the host�fs original and current DNA signature.

Result: 100% match with original host DNA signature. 96% match with current host DNA signature.

It really is like that. Someone who�fs exactly like Ellie could have been.There�fs no way this person exists. But
she does. She cannot exist, but she does. She cannot existbutshedoesshecannotexistbutshedoesshecannotexistbutshe-

Warning: Minor logic loop detected. Resolving�c done.

Ah! That was close. This is not a good place to glitch out!

Right, parallel universe! That�fs it! Fuck the science that keeps denying it. I�fm going with my gut feeling! Even
though I don�ft have any guts.

Warning: Intruder has reached security room.

Command: Display EVA suit camera feed.

Result: Displaying.

Good, I can see her like this. Yep, the face is the same. The boobs are enormous! To think my little Ellie could have
been like that! Just how much can that old fart take from her!?

Huh? The eyes are glowing purple? There were no augmentations or gene therapy right?

Ah, the purple is gone now. Heterochromia? That�fs unusual, but it�fs my loss if I mind it.

Ohh! Ellie�fs waking up! That�fs good, we can communicate properly like this. Right, let�fs warn her not to do
anything rash.
{Ellie, welcome back. This person isn�ft armed so don�ft do anything hostile and just read and observe her for
now.}

�gI know! Kira is nice!�h (Ellie)

Wow, okay that was weird. I've never heard her sound this happy before. Let's assume this is a good thing.

I really hope this is a parallel universe. Maybe here Ellie can finally be free from that old fart.

***

Notification: Personality matrix initialized.

Gaaah! I�fm back! I was gone? Right, assess the situation!

Command: Run full diagnostics on host and display results.

Result: Executing command, stand by.

{*KHHHT* Ah that was scary. Ellie? Ah she�fs unconscious, but seems to be fine.}

{�gNano! Thank goodness. I just captured the Fishface guy who hurt Ellie. I�fm dragging him back to where she
is right now.�h} (Kira)

Good, we can interrogate him once she wakes up.

{Okay, I understand. Kelly, how are things on your end.}

{�gWelcome back, Nano. I�fm inside the cave. It�fs safe, but the walls collapsed in the fight.�h} (Kelly)

{�gKelly who are you talking to??�h} (Tiny voice)

{�gI found a kid here, she looks hurt so dig us out fast.�h} (Kelly)

So we found some hostages as expected.

{�gNano, you can help Ellie get back on her feet, right?�h} (Kira)

Good question.

Notification: Displaying scan results.

Let�fs find the answer!

Hmm, most of the nanomachine swarm went haywire and was temporarily offline. Logs say Ellie�fs heart stopped
for several seconds but then she received a stimpack.

Kira, good job!

I�fm missing about 30% of the swarm, looks like that psionic feedback pulse fried them. Some nerve endings and
brain tissue were damaged, nasty. Thankfully there�fs still some of that all-purpose stimpack juice left in Ellie�fs
bloodstream so I can get her back on her feet at least. She should be able to make a full recovery with time.
{Leave it to me! She�fll be up and about in no time!}

{�gThen, we�fll head inside as soon as she�fs awake.�h} (Kira)

***

Result: Inconclusive.

Of course it�fs inconclusive. Our Ellie suddenly gains the power of magic and you�fre telling me you can�ft find
anything off with her physiology? I can�ft rely on this VI for this stuff.

Think Nano! Some change happened in her after we got knocked out! Find it! The only thing you�fre good at is
thinking stuff up so now is your time to shine!

...

There�fs no change in particular. She�fs exactly how she was before the blast. Only with magic. Then, maybe the
change happened earlier?

Like when we met Kira! That�fs it! There was a change that even the VI didn�ft notice, therefore the cause must
be magical in nature!

I need to confirm this, let�fs contact Kira without disturbing the others.

{Say Kira, were your eyes always this color?}

{�gHmm? Oh no. One of them turned red at some point after I found Ellie. I thought maybe it got dyed by blood or
something since I had a rough day, but since I could see just fine with it and Ellie was the same I didn�ft mind
it.�h} (Kira)

I see, it was like that after all. Also it wasn�ft �gat some point�h it was immediately when she found us.

{You know, Ellie is actually exactly the same. She had bright red-eyes like yours, but one of them turned blue after
you and her met.}

I was trying my best not to mind it at the time. But right now, I�fm minding it a whole lot!

{�gHuh? So we traded eyes? What kind of worrying thing are you suggesting!?�h} (Kira)

{Speaking of which, your eyes glowed purple when I first saw you. It stopped when Ellie woke up, it�fs hardly a
coincidence.}

{�gEyes glowing, hmm. That�fs worrying. It�fs a sign of demonic possession.�h} (Kira)

Geh! Now who�fs the one suggesting worrying things!?

{Tell me about demonic possession.}

{�gDemons don�ft have a body you see, they�fre just souls. Sometimes they cling onto people and take over their
bodies for about a week. But a body cannot hold two souls, so the invading demon eventually loses strength and gets
ejected, leaving the victim drained and weak. Priests of Khamis can forcefully exorcise the demon before any
permanent damage is done.�h} (Kira)

The concept of a soul is something I dismissed as 'uneducated guesswork' since it�fs something science never
proved. But this is a different universe. With magic. Science is not almighty here! Anything can happen! Especially
around that place.

{So eyes glow a strange color when possessed?}

The windows of the soul, huh? That idea seems to be literal here.

{�gThat�fs right. They go back to normal once the demon is expelled, though.�h} (Kira)

{What about other signs of possession?}

{�gUmm, being able to use magic even though they weren�ft mages, strange voice, all around manic behavior,
things like that.�h} (Kira)

An invasion of the soul�c but not an invasion, a visit? Ellie claimed her �eego�f was stuck inside Kira�fs head
when we arrived, while Kira herself said she experienced [Telepathy] and [Telekinesis] during that time.

Ellie described the experience as if watching through Kira's eyes, being able to only slightly nudge
her subconscious in the right direction. She also said she managed to pick up a lot of the language that way, so
knowledge was shared.

So, traumatized by the attack, Ellie�fs soul left her body and latched onto Kira�fs. When Kira found us on that
ship, Ellie�fs soul could return because she confirmed through Kira�fs eyes that her body was safe. That's the
hypothesis, but impossible to prove.

In the end, both of them had their eyes change color.

Magic�c relates to the soul, right? A change in their very souls! That's kind of scary! But maybe it's not a bad
thing?

A curse sticks to one�fs soul and can cause personality shifts similar to the one Ellie had when we came to this
world. I mean she mellowed out almost overnight! No, maybe she was always like that but just couldn�ft find
anybody she could show that side to.

I don�ft count, I�fm not a person anymore. I'm not even alive, so I probably don't have a soul. So something like
magic, which comes from the soul, is impossible for me to detect! It�fs actually making a scary amount of sense to
me! And that�fs made me feel a bit terrible!

What about Kira? Did she change in some significant way after that day?

I have to talk to some people and confirm a few things. Luckily the new butler android can pose as my avatar while I
do that.

***

{-and then the trauma from Fishface�fs attack allowed Ellie's mana to �ewake up�f.}

It was long winded, but that's what I've managed to piece together. This stuff is impossible to measure so it's mostly
guesswork, but it feels right. And when dealing with magic it's important to feel rather than think!

�gSo me and Kira are literally soulmates!?�h (Ellie)

�gOh you ~?! Even without Nano�fs words I felt that way you know ~?!�h (Kira)
That�fs what they took away from this? I wish they�fd take me seriously over here.

{There�fs something else. Kira, you said Ellie�fs mana capacity was scary big, close yo your own, yes?}

�gThat�fs true. But someone�fs mana capacity is something they�fre born with. It�fs like a muscle you can
train, some people naturally have better ones. You said before we were practically identical if not for Ellie�fs�c
past. So it�fs not that surprising.�h (Kira)

{Know what else is determined at birth? Potential for [Star Magic]. I�fm not sure if it�fs possible, but I think you
can use it yourself.}

�gReally? That's a surprise. I don't particularly need to learn it though, right?�h (Kira)

{Consider this - Ellie�fs [Star Magic] doesn�ft use mana. So what happens if we were to apply mana to that
power?}

This is the crux of the matter.

�gIs that possible?�h (Kira)

{Yes. I believe you and Ellie have both done it without realizing. Like when Ellie was talking to you while I was out,
or when you experienced that episode the day we arrived.}

Inexplicable behavior outside the understood scope. Natural laws that no longer apply. It has to be magic.

{I have a proposition that could lead to something incredible. I want you two to do three things. First, Kira, teach
Ellie how to use mana. Basic spells will do, so long as she gets the feeling of manipulating mana, it should be
enough.}

�gOkay, you can count on me!�h (Kira)

�gI�fll do my best too!�h (Ellie)

{Ellie, you have another job. A more difficult one. Make sure you tutor Kira in how to bring out [Star Magic]. Like I
said, the feeling is important.}

The earpiece blocks [Telepathy], so I'll have to see about switching it to one with an on/off switch rather than the
always-on one she's using right now. Also she won't have implants or nanomachine assitance, so [Telekinesis] will
be impossible to master on her own.

�gSure!�h (Ellie)

�gEh? But is that really necessary?�h (Kira)

Ellie has the potential to use magic on the same level as Kira. Kira has the potential to use psionics on the same level
as Ellie.

What they lack is training and understanding, muscle-memory and know-how. But if they train one, the other will
suffer. For now, the plan is to grasp the basic concepts of the others' strength.

{It is. For the third step. Kira, I have an idea for a spell. I want to replicate what happened on that day we met.}

So there you have it folks! It took almost 80 chapters we finally have some explanations. I declare this thread an
official "Mind it as much as you want" zone!

EDIT: Ah on second thought, this might have been a blunder. I should've posted this a few chapters down the line,
but those aren't done yet. OH WELL! I'll move it later.
Chapter 75 - Power-ups that spring out of nowhere always look like
dumb luck - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

The Capital city of Kotero was currently gripped in a panic. Sentries on the wall had spotted the Elder Dragon
approaching from the sky and raised the alarm. It was pretty difficult not to notice, what with the 200 meter head-to-
tail length and a wingspan slightly larger than that.

Covered in green, sturdy scales, teeth akin to broadswords, two pairs of sweeping black horns, four powerful legs
with insanely sharp claws, numerous spines jutting out along its back and a temper worse than a pack of sober
werewolves. It was a dragon no matter how you looked at it.

As is typical for Ancient Evil things that have just been unsealed, it was more peeved than usual. Seeing that pristine
white breakable thing in the distance, it decided it would be a good place to unwind. Unfortunately, an Elder
Dragon�fs �eunwinding�f could leave a nation in ruins.

Approaching its target, it inhaled deeply and breathed out a torrent of white-hot flame. Dragon fire was a terrifying
weapon, but the Royal Capital is not to be underestimated. A gigantic one-way barrier sprang upwards from the
ground just outside the white walls. This super-sized transparent shield successfully blocked the dragon�fs fire.

Numerous ballistae and battle-mages along the walls returned fire from safety. The dragon�fs height and speed
meant that a good number of their attacks would miss entirely, and the tough scales would deflect the rest with ease.
Annoyed at the much too feeble attempt on its life, the dragon swooped downwards and slashed at the stone wall.
The city-sized barrier once again deflected the attack.

It was a defensive measure meant to endure months of sieges, so it wouldn�ft break so easily. However, each part
of a dragon could be called the ultimate weapon. Its claws, tail and breath mercilessly battered against the giant
shield, while those behind it could do very little to impede its assault. They could attack through the barrier, but
couldn't land a telling blow.

The capital�fs adventurers were already on high alert from the disturbance earlier that morning, so they were able
to quickly mobilize.They gathered close to the walls and made their preparations. Coating their blades, counting
their arrows, readying their magic and steeling themselves. Nobody is truly prepared for facing an Elder Dragon, yet
they were not daunted. They could not abandon their king, their homes or their families

***

Unknown to them, five people outside the city were also making their own preparations. Even though one of them
wasn�ft really a person.

�gWhat about the others we left behind?�h (Kelly)

�gThey�fll be fine. We left those two bound up and took away all their focusing tools so they can�ft do
anything. The others will wake up eventually.�h (Kira)

�gSo this is the infamous Nano. Pleasure to meet you.�h (Picorio)

�gHello Picorio. This is just a golem of mine, so don�ft worry if it gets damaged.�h (Nano)

�gNano, get me six HEs and two cryos.�h (Ellie)

The specially built android called [Armory] opened its side panel and dispensed the eight grenades Ellie had
requested. Although it was armed with gatling cannons, they were more of a last resort since ammo was limited. Its
true purpose was support, recon and resupply.

�gHow come we always have to be fighting flying things?�h (Kelly)

�gThat's not true you know? We did take down that 20-meter tall colossus few weeks back.�h (Kira)

�gOh yeah! I almost forgot since it was too easy. All I had to do was crush its knees and it was helpless.�h (Kelly)

�gFlying things just give us the most trouble, huh?�h (Ellie)

�gThat much is natural. Air superiority is a key advantage.�h (Picorio)

�gWhat�fs the plan, Red? And please don�ft tell me it�fs-�h (Kelly)

�g [Sagittarius] at the wing.�h (Kira)

Kira said so with a wide smile, causing Kelly to let out a deep sigh. It was a technique they had practiced regularly,
but it was obvious that their opinions on it differed.

�gDon�ft complain or you can kiss that Orichalcum supplier goodbye!�h (Kira)

�gRight, whatever you say boss. Are you two going to do your thing then?�h (Kelly)

�gYes, in a second. Picorio, stand next to me and assist as instructed, understood?�h (Kira)

�gAffirmative. Shall I reinforce everyone?�h (Picorio)

�gJust us three. Kelly and Nano are using golems so your magic won�ft work on them�h (Kira)

�gUnderstood. Then I will begin. ----------- [Pace of Wind] ----------- [Strength of Stone]�h (Picorio)

Several rings of light wrapped around Picorio, Ellie and Kira. They were spells that would boost one�fs natural
agility and muscle power respectively. Although weaker compared to the 30-second [Strength of Oak]
enchantment, these could be used on groups and the effects lasted for up to an hour.

�gOhhh! I feel so light!�h (Ellie)

�gCome on Ellie, it�fs time to go.�h (Kira)

The two faced each other and stood face to face. Their foreheads and noses were touching. Each one was staring into
the other�fs eyes. Each placed their right hand on their partner�fs left cheek.

What they were doing at this moment was not simple flirting.

�g�g --------- [Unity]�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

Indeed, it was a very advanced form of flirting. Right now, Kira and Ellie were almost literally inside each other�fs
heads, sharing thoughts and knowledge freely and at high speeds.

The only outward sign the spell had succeeded was the two sets of mismatched irises now glowed with a uniform
bright purple light.
�g�gAlright, we�fre ready. Kelly, get into position, we�fre going to bring that thing down.�h�h (Kira and
Ellie)

�gIt�fs creepy no matter how many times I see that�c Alright, ready when you are!�h (Kelly)

The two wives walk over to the armored dwarf and each puts a hand on her shoulder.

{Okay, it�fs peeling away from the wall. Standby!}

�g�g ------------�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

The girls were focusing on a spell while Nano was waiting for the moment when the dragon would fire its breath -
the moment it was stationary. It didn�ft take long.

{Stage one!}

�g [Null Gravity]�h (Kira and Ellie)

After receiving the signal, the stored mana is released as a spell and the armor is wrapped in an anti-gravity bubble
made with magic. The two back away from the now slightly floating Scrappy.

{Stage two!}

Scrappy�fs extra wide calves split open, revealing the specially crafted tools within - jet boosters created with
magic.

{Stage three!}

�g ------ [Fire Step]�h (Kelly)

Plumes of flame propelled the now weightless armor upward. It rapidly gained speed and height, shooting straight
up in the air. Tiny servos controlled by Nano adjusted the pitch and yaw of the boosters, fine-tuning and correcting
the sudden flight.

The technique so far was the [Catapult] that was used to get the drop - literally - on Court Wizard Rutland.

The Elder Dragon was focused on the attacks now pouring in from the castle wall, and did not respond to Kelly�fs
sudden assent. While it�fs plausible she might reach the dragon, this was not her objective.

Ellie�fs grapple was already attached to Kelly�fs right hand.

{Stage four!}

*Vrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr*

She pulled herself in. The difference in mass meant Kelly lost almost no speed while Ellie was rapidly approaching
her.

{3�c 2�c 1�c NOW!}

�gEYYYYYAAAAA!�h (Kelly)

Kelly�fs arm was swung forward in an arc and the grapple line attached to it was cut.
The combined acceleration of the weightless flight, the grappling hook�fs high-spec winch and Scrappy�fs
formidable throw had flung Ellie at a speed exceeding 250 km/h. A feat like this was impossible without Nano�fs
accurate calculations and precise timing.

She was approaching the Elder Dragon like a missile, reaching its height after several seconds. Since the dragon was
still firing its breath upon the capital�fs barriers, it could not react even if it deigned to notice her. Ellie spread her
previously tucked-in arms and legs to control her speed and flight path, then fired a grappling hook at the dragon�fs
back.

*Fwump* *Clack* *Vrrrrr*

Attaching the hook onto one of its spines, with some guidance from [Telekinesis], she pulled herself in and
successfully put boots down on the dragon�fs back, right between the beating wings. Ellie unsheathed the sword on
her waist and took careful aim at the place where the dragon�fs wing was connected to its body.

She took a swing with all the strength she could muster, using [Telekinesis] to apply extra force to the back of the
blade. The tough scales were ripped apart by a strike that could (theoretically) slice starship-grade armor, creating a
deep and wide gash.

*KUAAAAAAAAAAAAAH*

It was only then the dragon realized someone had boarded it and it thrashed wildly, but it was too late. Ellie had
already armed four High Explosive Pocket Grenades and stuck them deep inside the open wound before leaping up
and away from its back.

*BABABABOOOOOM*

*YEEEAAAAAANNNN*

The grenades exploded a few breaths later, ripping apart the now-screaming dragon�fs backside. This was Ellie�fs
strategy when fighting opponents vastly bigger than herself - strip the flesh and �esalt�f the wound.

However, dragons are tough bastards - the wing was not completely torn off. Yet. Ellie pulled herself in with her
grappling hooks once more and used the extra speed to slice clean through the exposed and weakened bone near the
base of the wing. The dragon�fs now useless limb dangled pointlessly, connected only by bits of its webbing. Ellie,
who was already falling away from it, poured mana into her sword, using it like a metal wand.

�g ------- [Flight]�h (Ellie)

In contrast to her calm and graceful descent, the previously flying Elder Dragon was now rapidly becoming a
grounded one while leaving a trail of smoke and blood. It collided with the city�fs barrier, bouncing back slightly
before then crashing into the ground with a huge noise and cloud of dust.

{�gI cannot. Believe. That worked.�h} (Kelly)

{�g�gWe didn�ft have a single doubt! Nano�fs never been wrong you know!?�h�h} (Kira and Ellie)

{Enough about that, how�fs the target?}

{�g�gLooks to be still alive. Everyone regroup and Ellie�fs position!�h�h} (Kira and Ellie)
Chapter 76 - No matter how much you polish a rock, in the end it's still a
rock - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

Kotero�fs citizens, guards and adventurers could scarcely believe their eyes.

The unreachable Elder Dragon that had been assaulting the capital had been grounded. To the vast majority of
onlookers it seemed like it flew up into the air and exploded all on its own. Only a select few people managed to
perceive a black-clad figure zooming around it like a mosquito prior to its sudden fall.

Every single person there saw this as a chance. Flying monsters were always difficult to deal with. Bringing them
down to the ground was the most difficult task. The main reason being that the vast majority of combatants could
not take part in an air battle.

Battle-oriented mages were not very common. While a lot of people could use magic, most abstained from battle,
focusing on research or selling their services for nonviolent profit. Magic was a flexible tool and a powerful weapon,
but not everyone had the courage to seek a life of combat.

Archers and rangers suffered in a different way. No matter how good the bow or how skillful the person, an arrow
that could actually harm something like a dragon didn�ft exist. Even if it penetrated the scales, the wound would be
too shallow. You�fd need a ballista to inflict any sort of meaningful damage. Landing a shot in the eye or putting
holes in the wings is all a bow could do against a dragon.

In short - the vast majority of adventurers and guards defending the capital had no way of actually striking back
against the flying dragon. So seeing their foe suddenly fall to the ground with what looked like a completely severed
wing was something they welcomed readily. Most Rank A and B adventurers could smash or cut through dragon
scales if given the chance.

So the now bloodthirsty crowd approached the walls that could overlook where the dragon was. It was a perfect
vantage point to assess the situation. Also the guards refused to open the gates under any circumstances, so their best
bet was to leap from the high wall and engage it.

*KEEEYAAAAAAAAAA*

However, the dragon was already screaming in pain. That part baffled them - none of them had reach that dragon, so
how come it was still screaming? Dragons were tough bastards - their wounds would close up in a matter of minutes
and their blood seemed to flow without end. To hear that sort of monster let out these constant cries, what sort of
enemy was it facing?

Approaching the giant lizard that was thrashing about, they saw several people. The first person to grab their
attention was the infamous [Green Sage] flaunting his Life Magic.

Giant roots and vines had sprung up out of the dirt and were already coiled around the dragon�fs limbs, restricting
its movement. For those who had never seen the elves�f magic in action, it seemed to lack destructive power and
was disregarded as �eplaying with flowers�f by the ignorant. That preconception was currently being shattered.

�g------- [Nature�fs Spear] ---- [Strength of Oak]�h (Picorio)

An odd, transparent crystal-like tree trunk sprang out from the ground under the dragon. It was shaped closer to a
needle than an actual tree. It grew upwards into the dragon�fs abdomen, the beast�fs own weight pushing down
on it. With the additional enchantment that heightened natural strength and durability, it endured until it finally
pierced the tough scales and invaded the dragon�fs chest.

�g---- [Sprout]�h (Picorio)

*KEAAHAAH KAHAH*

The dragon screamed out once again, coughing up blood from its throat. The crystal tree which was current lodged
in its lung had sprouted spear-like branches and roots in all directions. It invaded both the flesh and the soil, locking
the two in place.

�g------- [Demon Grass Seed] -- [Gust]�h (Picorio)

Several seeds appeared out of thin air above Picorio�fs palm. Their size and shape was certainly seed-like, but the
bright red color was clearly unnatural. The following magic breeze blew them gently towards the dragon�fs head.

�g---- [Sprout]�h (Picorio)

The seeds erupted into a giant mass of long crimson grass in mid-air, encasing the dragon�fs face.

�g-- [Firebolt]�h (Picorio)

A simple fire spell set the whole mass ablaze. It burned with an intensity rivaling thermite, boiling up its eyes until
they burst. As a result of Picorio�fs spell combinations, the Elder Dragon was rooted to the ground, blind and
unable to use its breath.

However, dragons were tough bastards. Its eyes would recover and the crystal tree lodged in its chest would be
crushed into dust under its powerful muscle contractions. But right at that moment, it was helpless. It was then that
the onlookers took notice of the second person.

�g------ [Fire Step]�h (Kelly)

A blood-stained set of impractically bulky armor performed a mighty leap while jets of flame shot out from its legs.
Even without the assistance of Kira�fs magic, the makeshift boosters could still propel Scrappy several meters in
the air.

�gHa-YAAA!�h (Kelly)

Using the momentum of her rocket-assisted jump, Kelly smashed right into the Elder Dragon�fs head with both
maces swinging. One of the dragon�fs proud horns was snapped off with a dull, sound, followed by yet another
painful roar.

*GURAAAAAAH*

Kelly then grabbed onto the spines protruding near the dragon�fs still-recovering eyes and started pounding
incessantly at its forehead.

*SMACK SMACK SMACK SMACK*

Dull sounds echoed through the surrounding area as she furiously complained right to the dragon�fs thick skull
with her mace as an intermediary. The dragon bent its neck and shook its head, trying to shake the heavy lump of
metal. After some thrashing, it managed toss the annoying pest in the air above it.

�g------ [Fire Step]�h (Kelly)

Feeling awfully proud with itself for a split second, it then felt a heavy impact on its upper back. Kelly had used the
boosters to adjust her flight path, landing squarely on the dragon�fs long spine.

�gHut! Hut! Hut! Hut! Hut! Hut! Hut! Hut!�h (Kelly)

With every �eHut�f she took a step. With every step she planted a mace strike with all her weight behind it on the
dragon's back. She liberally tenderized the dragon as if it was a piece of sirloin. The scales were crushed mercilessly,
forming an odd path up and down its back.

The crystal tree binding the dragon�fs chest was finally broken off, allowing it to move freely once more. At least
for an instant.

This is when the adventurers turned their attention the third person - a red-haired woman standing almost shoulder-
to-shoulder with Picorio. She was rapidly chanting spells of her own.

�g--- [Earth Bind] ---- [Ice Block] ---- [Ice Block]�h (Kira)

Kira was perfectly sealing all of the Elder Dragon�fs limb movements. The instant a limb broke free, it was
encased in ice or buried in stone once more. This allowed her teammates to mercilessly beat down on the largely
immobile huge target.

�g------- [Nature�fs Spear]�h (Picorio)

Picorio was assisting her, attempting the same combination as earlier. Unfortunately, dragons are tough bastards. It
crushed the crystal sapling with its weight before the spell could progress any further. As a pinnacle of power, it
would not allow itself to be contained so easily. On that point, Kira displayed something new.

The result of pouring mana into one�fs [Telepathy] had given birth to a new school of magic - Soul Magic. Similar
to the elves�f Life Magic, this school would affect living beings. But unlike Life Magic, it would not affect the
body, but rather the mind and the heart. The metaphorical heart, not the actual one.

Currently, there existed only two Soul Magic spells. The first was [Unity]. The second could only be used under the
first one�fs effects. Kira needed to borrow her wife�fs experience with psionics to properly activate the second
one.

�g------ [Thought Echo]�h (Kira)

This particular spell allowed her brain to exceed its human limits, gaining something akin to Nano�fs multi-thread
processing. She could now think about two different things at the same time. And those two things just happened to
be her favorite offensive spell.

�g---- [High Thunder]�h (Kira)

The chant was uttered once, yet two lightning bolts struck the dragon. Using both her gauntlet and staff at the same
time, her output doubled in an instant. It was the world-first premier of dual wielding magic.

�g---- [High Thunder] ---- [High Thunder]�h (Kira)

Lightning keeps raining down upon the dragon. Upon closer inspection, the adventurers realized it wasn�ft hitting
at random. It was accurately striking black handles driven into the dragon�fs flesh. Some in the shoulders and
others in its neck, it was vaguely resembling a pincushion. That�fs when their eyes locked onto the fourth person at
the scene- a black-clothed, cat-eared girl.

Right now Ellie was suffering the pain of archers. Her scalpel-like strikes had very little effect in actually hurting the
dragon. The cleaner the cut - the faster it would heal. And since her cuts were very clean, they would heal in a matter
of seconds. She could not rely on �esalting�f the wounds as grenades were a limited resource. The legs and neck
were much thicker than the wing, so they would be difficult to sever using that strategy.

So she resorted to a new one - driving black swords past the tough scales. Dragon scales were notoriously resistant
to magic, but using the metal blade as a lightning rod would bypass their defense. When struck by Kira�fs
lightning, the electricity would permeate through the dragon�fs body, frying its insides and paralyzing its limbs.

Having found another good spot for her attack, Ellie drove another sword deep into the dragon�fs right shoulder.
She kicked off the scales, separating from the dragon.

�g---- [High Thunder]�h (Kira)

Kira�fs lightning accurately hit the sword handle not even a second later. Being able to instantly transmit its
location and coordinate the timing made for a devastating combination. The limb was numbed from the shock and
wouldn�ft move properly.

�gNano, sword!�h (Ellie)

{This is number 10, 2 more left.}

The [Armory] golem which was keeping a distance opened up its chest plate. Out of twelve identical looking slots,
only 3 had sword handles sticking out. Using a built in pneumatic launcher, it fired one of them straight at Ellie
using compressed air. She caught it effortlessly in mid-air and considered her next target.

However, dragons are tough bastards. So far, none of the five�fs attacks would leave any permanent damage.
Wounds closed up, foreign objects were absorbed into its body and even the previously sliced off wing was steadily
growing back even now. But compared to when the battle started, the speed of its movements and regeneration had
dropped significantly.

This was Nano and Ellie's strategy. They regularly encountered opponents with high-speed regeneration before
arriving in this world. They knew from experience such a convenient power was not free. The plan so far was to deal
wide-spread damage, making the dragon expend its energy while it grew back scales and stitched together ripped
flesh.

It�fs getting tired just like Nano said. We should move in for a finishing blow. (Kira)

How about [Solar Flare]? (Ellie)

Not enough. It only took down the High Dragon because that one is actually a weakling and a coward. It won�ft
break past the Elder Dragon�fs scales. (Kira)

So it really was called that just because it flew up high? (Ellie)

That�fs right, you can�ft use it as a standard at all. (Kira)

Kira�fs complaint about its name at the Ministry of Information was indeed a valid one, despite her screaming the
word �epoop�f at the top of her lungs.

Can you reach its brain with your swords? (Kira)

Tried, skull too thick. I can�ft stab it properly and the blade is too short. (Ellie)

Then how about- (Kira)

Oh, I see! That could work! (Ellie)

�g�gPicorio, can you bind its head to the ground for several seconds?�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�gI can, but mana is low so only one try!�h (Picorio)

�g�gGood! Do it! Kelly, come to the front and help out!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

{�gOn my way!�h} (Kelly)

Kelly, who was currently busy bashing the dragon�fs reverse leg joints on its hind legs, dashed around it, moving
towards its head.

�g------- [Binding Vines]�h (Picorio)

Thick thorny vines sprouted from the ground. They coiled around the Elder Dragon�fs protruding snout, sealing its
mouth and dragging it down.

�g------- [Nature�fs Spear] ---- [Strength of Oak]�h (Picorio)

The crystal needle appeared once more, this time directly under the dragon�fs chin. However, dragons are tough
bastards. It resisted the vines vehemently, refusing to bow down to these tiny creatures.

�gIncoming!�h (Kelly)

That is until Kelly�fs weight slammed down on its nose from above. The dragon�fs head involuntarily lurched
downwards, impaling its chin on the tree.

�g---- [Sprout]�h (Picorio)

Like before, branches and roots spread out from both ends of the transparent tree, locking the jaw near the ground.

�g�gKelly! Hit Ellie�fs sword! Nano, toss her another one!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

Ellie stabbed her sword as far as she could, embedding 15 of its 42 centimeter length into the flesh, but it stopped at
the skull. She simply lacked the leverage to penetrate the sturdy bone. Kelly had already climbed up the dragon�fs
immobile face and stood next to her.

�gYYAH!�h (Kelly)

Raising her fist, she slammed it along with all of Scrappy�fs weight into the sword handle, driving it into the skull.

�g�gGood, keep going!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

With every strike, the black blade dug deeper and deeper into the skull like driving a nail into it. The dragon let out
grunts with each strike, but it couldn�ft break free from the binding just yet. Since the sword had no guard, it was
plunged completely into the flesh.

�gNow what?�h (Kelly)

Ellie who had leaped without her noticing had caught the next sword thrown by [Armory] drove it right on top of
the previous one.
�g�gDo it again!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�gYYYYAH�h (Kelly)

Once again they started hammering it into the skull. The sword on top pushed the one below deeper and deeper until
the dragon let out the most painful roar yet.

*KUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHNNN*

It thrashed its head wildly, breaking its jaw free from Picorio�fs tree.

�g�gGood, now stand clear of the head!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

Kira then pointed her staff at the still thrashing dragon and channeled a spell - the final stage of
the [Thunder] series. It existed in theory, but the mental image required to mold the mana and cast the spell was too
complex to make it into practice. However, Kira was currently under the effect of [Thought Echo], which doubled
her normal processing ability.

�g------------------- [Grand Thunder]�h (Kira)

*BZZZZAZAZAZAZAZAZAZA*

The result was a spell vastly different than a [High Thunder]. Rather than a literal bolt out of the blue, it created a
sustained arc of electricity that flowed from her staff through the air, then into Ellie�fs swords and finally into the
dragon�fs defenseless brain.

*GYAGYAGYAGYAGYA*

The dragon shuddered immensely with a strange noise. The sustained electrical current ravaged the insides of its
head for several seconds. When it ended, it collapsed motionless on the ground.

However, dragons are tough bastards. It still hadn�ft died, it had just lost consciousness for a moment. When it
woke up almost right away, all its previous anger was gone and replaced by something new. It opened its freshly
regrown eyes and upon seeing the four people in front-

*PIKYAAAAAAAAA*

-it let out a never before heard scream. The sudden loss of its wing in mid-air had planted a seed of fear in its heart.
The pummeling that followed nurtured it and the indescribably painful shock had made it blossom splendidly.

Gripped with fear for the first time in its millennia-long life, it cowered desperately, bowing its head in submission.
Its eyes were wide open and swimming all over the place. If it could sweat, it would be pouring out a river right
now.

*GURURURURURU*

It involuntarily let out a low rumbling sound from its throat, its body no longer obeying it properly.

�gI think�c it�fs admitting defeat?�h (Kelly)

�g�gIt�fs a bit pitiable when we see it like this�c�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

Its pride, scales, teeth and horns were all shattered. The sad visage before them could hardly be compared to the
majestic beast Kira saw break out of its bindings. It was wallowing in the dirt with uneven breathing and its limbs
twitching uncontrollably. The damage was so great it was unable to even stand up.

�g�gWe almost feel a bit bad for it.�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

Sensing the animosity from before was gone, Ellie slowly and warily approached the terrified creature. She raised a
hand and gently placed it on its bloodied snout, as if to pet it.

Now, this being the dragon�fs first experience with fear, it had no idea what to do with itself. When it felt the tiny
warm hand press against the sensitive skin under its broken scales, it stiffened. A mind gripped by terror reacts in
unpredictable ways, but that soft soothing touch had managed to instantly calm down its unsteady heart. Having
conquered its fear, the Elder Dragon surged with emotion!

Unfortunately the only other emotions it knew were anger, rage and a general state of piss-offed-ness.

*CHOMP*

It tried to swallow Ellie whole, but it was a futile effort. Ellie had easily dodged the attack and had simultaneously
thrown two grenades into its briefly open mouth. The first to go off was a F.A.R.T. grenade. The second was an
incendiary.

*PAKKKKOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNNN*

It was a risky combination that would only be effective at the right moment, but the effect was a dramatic explosion
inside the Elder Dragon�fs mouth and throat. It had enough force to separate the head from the rest of its body.
There was a brief moment of silence before the barely intact head landed in the dirt with a wet thud.

�gHURRRAAAAAAAAAHH!!!�h (Peanut Gallery)

Having witnessed the breathtaking battle and spectacular finish, thousands of adventurers and guards raised a cheer
in celebration.

Sorry folks, I tried, but dragons in this world are irredeemable assholes.
Chapter 77 - If we can experience the feeling of deja vu, then what about
vuja de? - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Third Person PoV <

�gHey what�fs with those guys! That was amazing!�h (Mage 1)

�gSo that�fs the elves�f magic! It�fs pretty admirable, huh?�h (Mage 2)

�gIdiot, that�fs the [Green Sage]! He�fs in a league of his own!�h (Mage 3)

�gThen who�fs the lady with the red hair? I haven�ft seen her before?�h (Mage 1)

�gShe must be a [Sage] too, right?�h (Mage 2)

�gI think she�fs beyond that. The speed and accuracy of her incantations, and then that magnificent [Thunder]
spell at the end�c She�fd need to be a double-sage or something!�h (Mage 3)

�gBe quiet! What if it spreads? I don�ft want to end up with some silly title like that!�h (Mage 1)

***

�gKyaaaa! It�fs Ellie! Elliiieeeee!�h (Female fan 1)

�gEllie please marry me too!�h (Female fan 2)

�gEllie�fs dance-like movements are the greatest!�h (Female fan 3)

�gWait, which one�fs Ellie?�h (Man)

�gYou don�ft know!? She�fs the best, obviously! That�fs her with the gallant black armor and cute fuzzy ears!
�h (Female fan 2)

�gOhhh so her name is Ellie! My heart was captured after that beautiful mid-air takedown! My eyes saw
everything you know!�h (Female Hunter/New fan)

�gShe�fs the one that did that?! What is she, a monster?�h (Man)

�gHow dare you!?�h (Female fan 3)

"Our sweet Ellie is no monster!" (Female fan 1)

�gUh oh! No, I misspoke! I�fm sorry! Forgive meeeeee!�h (Man)

***

�gThose movements were something else! How does that guy move around in so much armor?�h (Meathead 1)

�gHe even got stepped on and was slammed by that tail, but he�fs perfectly okay!�h (Meathead 2)

�gA man among men�c�h (Meathead 3)

�gI wonder if he�fs looking for disciples�c�h (Dwarven Meathead)

�gSomeone strong like that would probably break a weakling like you in half.�h (Meathead 3)

�gWhat�fs that? Got something to say, huh?�h (Dwarven Meathead)

�gYeah I got something to say! The likes of you ain�ft good enough to even lick that guy�fs boots!�h
(Meathead 3)

�gBig words coming from a dead man!�h (Dwarven Meathead)

�gBring it on, shorty!�h (Meathead 3)

***

�gThat�fs the rumored [Black Flame] out of Runetap isn�ft it? Reports said they were responsible for the
damage on the guild, but how can that be?�h (Guard 1)

�gNo idea, but I�fm not going to risk trying to bring those people in.�h (Guard 2)

�gI�fm with him. I can�ft bring myself to do something like that to the capital�fs saviors.�h (Guard 3)

***

�g�gThose people sure are happy considering they didn�ft help at all and just stared.�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gThey�fd just get in the way you know.�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

�g�gThat�fs true. They don�ft have a Scrappy or a Nano so they wouldn't be able to keep pace with us in the
slightest.�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gNo fair! We were here too!�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

�g�gI know and we did great ~?! We were so graceful and brave we think we fell in love with us all over again
~?!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gHee hee hee.�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

�g�gIt IS dead though, right Picorio?�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�gBeheading is traditionally a fatal wound.�h (Picorio)

�gYeah, so is getting your brain pierced, but it lived through that...�h (Kelly)

�g�gI guess dragons really are are tough bastards. Well in the end it was nothing more than a Poop
Tornado.�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gHehehehe, we said �epoop�f again!�h�f (Ellie and Kira)

�g�gStop that! It�fs embarrassing! Our tongue slipped that one time so don�ft remind us!�h�h (Kira and
Ellie)

�g�gOkay, if we insist, we�fll forget all about it!�h�h (Ellie and Kira)
�gI think it�fs fascinating. To think you girls would be synchronized to such a high degree! This is far better
results than we ever got in training!�h (Nano/Armory)

�g�gWe�fre surprised as well. It�fs really fun being able to use magic!�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

�g�gWe know right? It�fs pretty great! It�fs a shame the dragon absorbs direct magic attacks like
nothing.�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gStill, our magic was wonderful! It was beautiful beyond our words!�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

�g�gOh us ~?! Come here ~?!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

*Scritch Scritch*

�g�gHehehe, our ears are soft- Nyaaa�c -and fuzzy like always!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gNyaaa�c Nyaaa�c�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

*Scritch Scritch*

�g�gHmm? Why are- Nyaaa�c -Picorio and Kelly slowly backing away- Nyaaa�c -for some reason?�h�h
(Kira and Ellie)

�gThis conversation is unsettling.�h (Picorio)

�gYou�fre telling me? I have to listen to this stuff almost daily! I don�ft get paid enough for this.�h (Kelly)

*Scritch Scritch*

�g�gKelly, did you want to re- nyaaagotiate your contract again?�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�gNo! No, I�fm good! Just, can you stop that already!?�h (Kelly)

*Scritch Scri-*

�g�gAh! That�fs right! There�fs not much point to keeping [Unity] active anymore.�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gBut it feels lonely when we separate...�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

�g�gWe know, but we can try that new way of doing it!�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

�g�gOh yeah!�h�h (Ellie and Kira)

*MMMMMmmmmmmmmwah*

> Kira PoV <

Ohhhh there we go we go. That was a bit weird like always like always. Ahh hh! My thoughts are repeating again
repeating again! I put my hand up to my head to my head.

�g - [Impact]�h (Kira)

Finally peace and quiet! Thankfully the [Thought Echo] spell doesn�ft manifest anything physical so dispersing it
with an [Impact] doesn't hurt too much.
�gKira�c lonely�c�h (Ellie)

Ah, the Ellie in my arms seems so far away somehow. She�fs right there and yet I feel like I�fll never see her
again! Right, time for some more rehabilitation!

*MMMmmmmmhmmhhmhmwah*

�gBetter?�h (Kira)

�gBetter!�h (Ellie)

Huhuhuhu, that cheerful expression really is the best! I can understand why Ellie wants to see me smiling so much!
I�fm gorgeous! No no no, that�fs not good. I shouldn�ft fall in love with myself. Things like that can actually
happen if we overuse this spell so let�fs be more prudent with it!

�gGreat, the creepy voices stopped but the pink world isn�ft going away any time soon...�h (Kelly)

�gMy condolences.�h (Picorio)

�gThanks, P. I'm glad it's not just me.�h (Kelly)

�gPlease don�ft call me that. Address me properly or not at all.�h (Picorio)

�gAh you�fll get used to it in no time P! Come on, I should buy you a drink for all your help!�h (Kelly)

�gI refuse.�h (Picorio)

Kelly and Picorio seem to be getting along... I think. Well they haven't talked much until today so it's a miracle they
could work that well together under the circumstances.

�gKelly, stay here with Picorio and straighten things out with the guards. Ellie, let�fs go find the kids and the
Grandmaster.�h (Kira)

�gUnnecessary, I�fm guiding them over here with one of my golems. They�fll arrive soon.�h (Nano/Armory)

I see, I see, so Nano was keeping an eye on them. That�fs good. I was worried sick at first, but somehow felt
reassured during the [Unity]. I guess Ellie had confidence in both of them.

�gBy the way Ellie, how come you trust the Guildmaster so much? We only met him once.�h (Kira)

�gBecause that man really just wants what is best for others. He didn�ft have even a single rude thought about
Kira you know?�h (Ellie)

Well, I more or less guessed it. I guess we should clean up the blood on Ellie�fs clothes first. It might scare Lara
and Sophie if we show them something like�c a giant bloody corpse and a severed head that�fs been burned to a
crisp...

�gUrk! I don�ft want the girls to see that!�h (Kira)

I point at the horrible remains that used to be a dragon. There�fs no way that sort of stuff is suitable for kids! What
if they get nightmares!?

�gToo late.�h (Nano/Armory)

�g�gMOOOOOOMMMYYY!�h�h (Sophie and Lara)

My two darling little daughters are trotting at me with outstretched arms. I run a bit myself and go down on one knee
to hugh them both.

�gOhhhhh! OHHHH! You�fre safe! I�fm so glad you�fre alright!�h (Kira)

This is the first time I�fve been able to confirm that with my own eyes ever since this whole mess started!

�gAre you hurt!?�h (Lara)

�gMommy is all red�c�h (Sophie)

�gWe�fre perfectly fine, you�fre what�fs important here!�h (Kira)

�gYeah! Not my blood you know!�h (Ellie)

�gThen whooaaaaaat is thaaaaat!?�h (Lara)

Lara finally noticed the bloody heap of flesh and is pointing at it with wide eyes. Oops.

�gIs that the dragon?! Wow Mom! You really messed it up! That�fs so cool! I�fm gonna brag to all my friends
back home!�h (Lara)

�gI�fm so proud of you mommy! I want to be just like you when I grow up!�h (Sophie)

Huh. They�fre oddly impressed. I guess I underestimated them. Well, they�fre my kids so they�fre sure to lack
common sen- I mean they�fre sure to be adaptable! Just like a true adventurer!

�gThat�fs right, we beat down that mean lizard for trying to wreck the pretty city!�h (Kira)

�gSoo coool!�h (Lara)

�gIt even tried to bite me whole you know?!�h (Ellie)

�gWaah! Scary!�h (Sophie)

�gHow did you beat it mom?�h (Lara)

�gLighted a F.A.R.T.�h (Ellie)

�g�gEwwwwww!�h�h (Lara and Sophie)

�gEllie! Please don�ft say things that would be misunderstood!�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs not a misunderstanding though. I think it was a pretty amusing way to kill that thing.�h (Kelly)

�gYou stay out of this!�h (Kira)

�gThank mister Picorio for helping us out, kids.�h (Ellie)

�g�gThank you uncle Picorio!�h�h (Sophie and Lara)

�gAh�c Don�ft mind it. I was just returning a favor.�h (Picorio)

Wow, he actually smiled! I�fve only ever seen him with an indifferent face or scowling at something. That guy
might have a soft spot for kids.

�gExcuse. Me.�h (Grandmaster)

Ah, the Grandmaster was there too. It�fs strange I didn�ft notice him. Now that I see him standing he�fs over 3
meters tall isn�ft he?

�gSorry. To. Interrupt. But. Would. Everyone. Involved. Please. Follow. Me. Back. To. Headquarters?�h
(Grandmaster)

Geh, there�fs a lot of guards behind us. They seem to be on edge, this isn�ft good!

�gPlease. Be. At. Ease. Your. Friend. Has. Explained. The. Situation. So. Until. We. Can. Confirm. Everything. I.
Would. Appreciate. It. If. You. Cooperated. With. Me.�h (Grandmaster)

He points at one of Nano�fs floating eyes. I keep forgetting it can talk to people. Still, he has a point. Technically
that Rutland guy did mark us as criminals.

�gI understand. Is it okay if I bring the kids?�h (Kira)

I�fm not letting go of them ever again!

�gYes. That. Is. Fine. Now. Please. Follow. Me.

I. Will. Send. Some. People. To. Take. Care. Of. The. Dragon.�h (Grandmaster)

***

�gI. See. Even. Though. It. May. Have. Been. Your. Fault. That. The. Dragon. Escaped. Its. Bindings. It. Is. Not. A.
Problem. In. Particlar.�h (Grandmaster)

�gExcuse me, Grandmaster, I have a question I�fve been meaning to ask. A personal one.�h (Kira)

�gI. Am. Listening.�h (Grandmaster)

�gWhy do you talk like that?�h (Kira)

�gLike. What?�h (Grandmaster)

�gLike. That. It�fs rather vexing for me and inefficient for exchanging information.�h (Kira)

�gReally? Do. The. Rest. Of. You. Feel. This. Way?�h (Grandmaster)

�gI don�ft mind it.�h (Ellie)

�gNo comment.�h (Picorio)

�gI�fm with Red, your speech is way too long.�h (Kelly)

�gIt�fs a bit awkward listening to mister Kilroy... �g (Sophie)

�gIt feels like you�fre losing money with every spoken word�c�h (Lara)

...

There's a brief silence before the Grandmaster's face turns red. He's angry isn't he? Maybe I should have kept my
mouth shut?

�gOH COME ON! Really? You�fre all serious!? Twelve years and nobody even mentioned that it bothered them!
Some even said it was calming so I put up with it but what the hell is thiiiiis!? I�fve wasted so much time on simple
conversation that I want to hit myself! Should I hit myself!? I should just go hit myself right now!�h (Grandmaster)

No, I�fm sorry I said anything. I�fll take my words back so please stop with the sudden flood of nonsense okay?

�gYou know, when I first came here I was so nervous I could barely talk! I�fm a shy person, you know! It takes a
lot of determination to talk to strangers so it just comes out slow and awkward! But! But! People never said they
minded it! So I convinced myself it was for the best!? I can just talk normally now, right? It�fs fine if I talk
normally, right? They won�ft laugh at me? RIGHT?!�h (Grandmaster)

I�fm properly repenting over here so please stop this and tell me it�fs a joke!

�gI-I-I�fm sure it�fs fine, Grandmas-�h (Kira)

�gWhat do YOU know? You have no idea what I�fve been through! Ahhh! My life is a jooooke! That�fs it,
I�fm going to sleep. I�fm just going to sleep right now! GOOD! NIGHT!�h (Grandmaster)

*SLAM*

*SNOOOORE SNOOOOORE*

He actually went and did it. He fell asleep in the middle of his rant, sprawled out on his huge desk with a red face.
I�fm not sure what to do here.

*SNOOOORE SNOOOOORE*

Ellie walks over and pokes the Grandmaster a few times.

*SNOOOORE SNOOOOORE*

There's no response. Just like a corpse. She turns around.

"Well then." (Ellie)

Ellie walks over to the door and opens it slightly.

"Excuse me, miss secretary? Can we get some tea, please?" (Ellie)

"Just a sec, dearie!" (Secretary)

"Thank you!" (Ellie)

Ellie walks back to her chair and sits down.

Yeah, tea sounds good right now.

Chapter 78 - Getting your hopes up only to have them dashed is a special
sort of pain - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gSo what now?�h (Kelly)

*SNOOORE*

�gLet�fs casually enjoy our tea. If he doesn't wake up in 15 minutes Ellie will take care of it.�h (Kira)

I follow Kira�fs advice and sip the tea the secretary brought us.

Usually I don�ft like hot drinks, but this tea is delicious!

�gBah, tea. I need a refill for my hip flask...�h (Kelly)

�gUse your emergency flask.�h (Kira)

*SNOOORE*

�gIt�fs empty too. Downed it on the way back from the dragon shrine.�h (Kelly)

�gThen your emergency emergency flask.�h (Kira)

�gDrank that right before we fought the dragon.�h (Kelly)

*SNOOORE*

�gAnd the-�h (Kira)

�gDuring the fight.�h (Kelly)

So that�fs what that was!

I was wondering why Kelly got super depressed in the middle of the fight with the dragon.

She took a few hits, but Scrappy absorbed them magnificently.

As for me, he didn't even touch me.

That big lizard was tough, but he was slow.

I�fm so glad we practiced the throwing technique with Kelly.

It accelerates much faster than the [Flight] spell!

Well, this is a secret but I really wanted to be thrown by Scrappy.

It�fs soooo coool!

�gWow all eight flasks? This might be the first time I�fve-�h (Kira)
*YAAAWN*

�gAh. That. Was. A. Good. Nap.�h (Grandmaster)

Ohh!

The Grandmaster is back to normal!

I�fm so glad, this way of speaking is much more interesting!

�gHuh? Mister Kilroy your words are back?�h (Lara)

�gHmm? Did. They. Go. Some. Where?�h (Grandmaster)

�g... Grandmaster, what�fs the last thing you remember before your nap?�h (Kira)

�gI. Was. Explaining. We. Will. Not. Penalize. Your. Team. For. Releasing. The. Dragon.�h (Grandmaster)

Does he not remember?

What a curious thing, he was so angry, too.

Ah, it is it similar to how I can�ft remember what happened right before I fall asleep?

Must be that, surely.

�gI liked mister�fs smooth words better!�h (Sophie)

�gSmooth. Words? You mean like this?�h (Grandmaster)

�gYes! I think talking like that suits mister the best!�h (Sophie)

�gAh. Y-yeah!�h (Lara)

Whaaaaat?

But those slow sentences are pretty cool you know?

Well, it makes the girls happy so let�fs support it with a clear nod.

�gI see, then if it is alright with the rest, I will continue like this. Hmm, I don�ft see the [Green Sage] here.�h
(Grandmaster)

�gMister Picorio went to get some sleep.�h (Ellie)

�gI see, I can relate to taking a good nap!�h (Grandmaster)

It�fs a shame mister Picorio is missing out on this tea though.

He normally likes this sort of thing since it comes from herbs.

Speaking of herbs, mister Picorio�fs herbal thoughts were going around in circles when he left.
I guess fighting a dragon is exhausting for mages who aren�ft Kira.

�gThen, since this was dropped off earlier, I am handing it to you now.�h (Grandmaster)

The Grandmaster takes out something from his desk and places it in front of us.

It�fs a brass-colored kite shield.

There�fs an engraving of a crown with wings coming out of it.

�gThis is?�h (Kira)

�gYour Flight Badge. The MI (Ministry of Information) has decided you are trustworthy. I had some doubts that
you are too young to take on such a burden, but your actions today proved otherwise.�h (Grandmaster)

�gThen we will accept it gratefully. Thank you, Grandmaster!�h (Kira)

Kira reaches out and takes the shie- Flight Badge.

I wonder why they call it a badge, anyway?

Is it another conspiracy like the Pond Fruit?

�gKira, can I see?�h (Ellie)

�gSure, here you are.�h (Kira)

I take the Flight Badge from Kira.

The engraving is finely carved, it looks like it took a lot of work.

Flipping it over, I see a giant safety pin on the back side.

So it really is a badge, huh?

I guess it needs to be big since the flying monsters are big.

�gThen, we will take our leave.�h (Kira)

�gAh, two more things, Mrs Quasse.�h (Grandmaster)

�gYes?�h (Kira)

�gFirst, present your guild cards at the receptionist downstairs to be updated.�h (Grandmaster)

Ohhh!

�gWe�fre getting ranked up!?�h (Ellie)

I jump a little in excitement.

This is one of Kira�fs goals, so achieving it will make her happy.

And when Kira is happy it makes her smile so bright it burns itself into my eyes!
�gNot yet.�h (Grandmaster)

�gUgh!�h (Ellie)

That was cruel!

My hopes were dashed in an instant!

�c Huh?

�gYet?�h (Ellie)

�gRank A promotions are important events. There are many things to prepare and verify beforehand. Most
important of them is to have a proper trial for the Court Wizard.�h (Grandmaster)

�gI see.�h (Ellie)

Even after we caught him, the old fart still causes trouble.

Just how determined is he to mess with me?!

�gThe last issue is what do you wish to do with the remains of the Elder Dragon?�h (Grandmaster)

�gThe guild can buy it, right?�h (Kira)

�gWell, yes, but such a sum-�h (Grandmaster)

�g-is something the guild can most assuredly afford, yes?�h (Kira)

Ah no good.

Kira is in full on negotiations mode.

This will take a while.

***

�gHere are your cards back Ellie!�h (Clara)

�gThanks Clara.�h (Ellie)

I accept our Adventurer Cards back.

Both of us got a [Dragonbane] title, the rest in unchanged.

Kira is still �enegotiating�f upstairs.

The Grandmaster will probably be wrung out of every last coin before she�fs satisfied.

Our finances are still in a slight pinch after that wedding day incident, so Kira is serious.

The rest of us grew bored so we excused ourselves.

�gLook girls, titles!�h (Ellie)

I try to show off for the girls a little.

�gEhhh? No Rank-up? That�fs so unfair!�h (Lara)

�gBig sis, I�fm sure the titles are more amazing than rank�c�h (Sophie)

Hmm, I guess it�fs not much from their point of view.

It lacks the impact of an actual dragon corpse present.

�gAhh, lil�f Sophie�fs right you know? Ranks are meaningless!�h (Kelly)

Kelly�fs just come back from the restaurant area.

She went to get a drink in her favorite mug.

�gI mean�c Ellie�c Red was like, the same, right? Before and after *urp* getting Ranked up?�h (Kelly)

Looks like she�fs already tipsy

Well, this is her fifth drink already, so this much is expected.

�gThat�fs right. Kira�fs always been amazing.�h (Ellie)

�gYa see? Ranks don�ft count for nothing!�h (Kelly)

�gHey, watch your mouth you damn drunk!�h (Adventurer)

Kelly said that last part with a louder voice than usual and was overheard.

�gI only speak th�f truth. If you don�ft wanna listen then bugger off you, you, you, you gorilla!�h (Kelly)

Well she has a point.

That guy does look a little like a gorilla, especially the face.

�gBah, probably another weakling that can�ft get past Rank D!�h (Gorilla)

�gYeah right! I ain�ft even part of your litt- *urp* little �esystem.�f I�fm a mercenary, I�fm my own
woman!�h (Kelly)

�gHahahaha! A merc! What a joke. Why don�ft you go sell yourself somewhere away from here?�h (Gorilla)

�gBelieve me, mate, I�fd love to but I already got a contract with Ellie here.�h (Kelly)

Hey!

Don�ft drag me into this!

I just wanted to casually enjoy the show!

�gHuh? That girl? Wait, isn�ft she that same Ellie that took down the dragon this morning?!�h (Gorilla)
�gThat�fs right! You don- don�ft wanna mess with her! Or me!�h (Kelly)

�gSuch a disgrace! You�fre in the service of such a fine team and yet you drink so shamelessly! Know your
place!�h (Gorilla)

�gThat right? I know my place mate. Do you kno- *urp* know the place where I�fll put my fist if ya don�ft shut
it? Yer ruining the taste of me ale so go *urp* go away!�h (Kelly)

Well, I can already see where this is headed.

But it's been a while, so I'll let it happen.

Kelly needs to unwind a bit.

***

�gI�fm done. I got us a good price as expected!�h (Kira)

�gGood work Kira!�h (Ellie)

�gCan we go now? I�fm bored.�h (Lara)

�gOf course Lara, we�fre done he-�h (Kira)

She freezes mid-sentence.

I guess I should have told her right away.

�gWhy is there- KELLY!�h (Kira)

�gHa? What? Oh! Hey Red! How�fd it go?�h (Kelly)

Kelly finally noticed Kira.

�gNevermind that! Why do you keep doing these things!?�h (Kira)

�gAh? Well�c this gorilla was being noisy�c then there was a punch thrown�c and things sort of escalated from
there�c�h (Kelly)

Well, that is the gist of it, nothing really unusual there.

But that headlock of hers is a bit more vicious than normal.

�gEscalated did they? Please let that poor man go! His face is turning blue! I wish you�fd consider your position
as an employee!�h (Kira)

�gAhhh don�ft start with that! This guy here was saying the same thing! How I�fm not good enough and I
should take a hike and how I can�ft measure up to you guys�c �g (Kelly)

�gGHHHRRR!�h (Gorilla)

The gorilla was letting out some weird noises and foaming slightly at the mouth.
�gRelease him this instant!�h (Kira)

�gFeh, fine, if you insist.�h (Kelly)

She let go of the guy whose face was turning blue.

He immediately backs away glaring, but doesn�ft look like he�fs willing to continue.

�g *Cough cough* Thank you. That lowly mercenary really is-�h (Gorilla)

*SLAM*

�gOOF!�h (Gorilla)

Kira hits him right in the face with her staff, shutting him up and knocking him down.

�gHow dare you? I�fll have you know that woman is every bit as capable as we are! Next time you have
something to say come straight to me! I�fll be sure to properly explain things to you again!�h (Kira)

�gRed, you know you don�ft have to do this sort of thing.�h (Kelly)

�gYou be quiet! It�fs not for your sake it�fs for mine!�h (Kira)

Kira takes her position as team leader very seriously you know?

Implying her companions aren�ft needed is an insult to her as an adventurer.

Well, that and she wanted a little revenge for Kelly.

She is an important friend after all.

The gorilla glares back at her while he rubs his cheek.

Ah�c I can see where this is going too.

***

*Snap*

�gGYAAAAA!�h (Gorilla)

�gAnother wonderful display of self-defense, Ellie!�h (Clara)

Yup.

Kelly�fs drunk, Kira�fs beautiful, the girls are adorable and I�fve had to discipline a rude person while Clara
cheers me on.

This is exactly like Runetap at this point.

It�fs not a bad thing.

Let�fs focus on relaxing properly over the next week.

Today�fs been a long day, I feel like it�fs been forever since I slept.

[Unity] is as exhausting as always.

Therefore, I really wish those soldier-like people who just burst in through the door have nothing to do with us.

�gAttention! We�fve come to escort adventurer team [Black Flame] to the Royal Palace by order of the king!�h
(Soldier)

My wish was instantly denied.

Let�fs start seriously working on that spell that rejects reality when we get back home!

End of Act Five - Unity

Chapter 79 - Most people have one 'public' face and one 'private' face -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
Act six - Prepared for the future

> Ellie PoV <

A royal guard is escorting our group.

This is the hallway that leads to the throne room, apparently.

�gWe�fre going to meet the king! This is so cool! I wonder if mom will get knighted!�h (Lara)

�gMommy look! The paintings are so pretty!�h (Sophie)

�gThey are, aren�ft they?�h (Ellie)

They�fre definitely more pleasing than the stuff Nano thought up.

This hallway is full of them.

There are a few fancy-looking statues too.

�gNow Ellie, when we get to the king, let me do all the talking okay?�h (Kira)

�gOkay!�h (Ellie)

We reach the end of the hallway and stop at a set of heavy-looking double doors.

Looks like we�fll be entering shortly.

�gThe rest of you as well! Remember to be on your best behavior!�h (Kira)

�gYes ma�fam!�h (Lara)

�gMa�fam!�h (Sophie)

They both take a pose with serious faces.

It�fs a two-finger salute with the palm facing down.

Wait, isn�ft that the stance I take when I have to wake up Nano?

I wonder why he taught them that?

�gI�fm not in any shape to meet with no king! I�fm too sober!�h (Kelly)

�gYou just�c be quiet. And don�ft put the king in a headlock.�h (Kira)

�g... I�fll try.�h (Kelly)

Kelly shrugged her shoulders and rolled her eyes as if saying �eno promises�f.
*Knock knock*

Someone knocked quietly from the other side of the double doors

The guards either side of the door open it for us and we walk inside.

I�fm feeling a bit tense since I�fve never met an actual king before.

�gIntroducing Lady K-�h (Herald)

�gEnough about that, I know who they are! Come in, come in!�h (King)

A jolly-sounding gramps with expensive clothing and a golden gem-encrusted crown is waving us in.

He�fs got a black full beard with some white streaks in it, with matching hair and black eyes.

We were supposed to follow Kira's lead, but she hesitated when she saw that casual attitude.

�gI said come in! Don�ft be nervous! You�fre adventurers, something like this is nothing, right?!�h (King)

Kira snaps out of it at his continued invitations and starts walking rather stiffly.

I can tell all sorts of crazy ideas are running through her head.

But this king fellow doesn't seem like a bad guy.

We follow along the soft red carpet that�fs only in the middle of the hall.

There are columns and statues spaced out evenly on the left and right, next to the walls.

Guards stand at attention next to the columns, there�fs 12 of them in total.

The throne itself is on a raised podium with 4 steps to it.

Rather than sitting, the king stood up to greet us.

There are 2 more people next to the king, one on either side.

�gYour Majesty, this is highly irregular!�h (Strict-looking old man)

�gYour Majesty, what of your safety?�h (Burly-looking Knight)

I see, they must be his retainers.

One is fully armored with a cape and the other is wearing a long black robe.

�gHa! Safety? These people took down an Elder Dragon while you lot sat back and watched! Don't dare to lecture
me about safety! Besides, if they seriously wanted a go at me, neither of you would be much help.�h (King)

The king does have a point.

We've no reason to do that sort of thing though.

...

Let's hope it stays that way.

�gBesides, interesting things happen around them all the time! The report from Grimm was almost like a novel!�h
(King)

The Director person from the Ministry of Information?

I guess as a king he has a say in things like who gets a Flight Badge.

That reminds me, I still haven�ft thanked Lilly for the breakfast on the beach.

It was delicious!

Kira stops us right at the foot of the steps.

�gI say, the girl with the cat ears - Ellie right? Care to remove your mask?�h (King)

The king cuts off Kira just as she opened her mouth to speak.

It was a bit rude, but since it wasn't on purpose I won't be angry.

I pull down the mask that normally covers my lower face.

�gHah! Hahahahaha! So it really is like that! This is great!�h (King)

He seems awfully amused.

Is there something on my face?

�gHey! Someone go fetch Shalia and bring her here at once! She has to see these two!�h (King)

�gAt once, Your Majesty!�h (Royal Guard)

The king gives an order with a wide grin and one of the guards promptly leaves the room.

Ah I see, Shalia is the princess, this guy�fs daughter.

Unfortunately that's all the useful information I could get.

This is fun! This is so much fun! Just look at them both! Shalia is going to lose her mind! I can�ft wait! It�fs been
too damn boring lately so something like this is the greatest! (King)

He�fs way too excited inside his head.

Oh, right, we have the same face!

I almost forgot since I just stare at Kira�fs all day.

Is it really that unusual though?

�gI must say, I have always wanted to meet you Lady Quasse!�h (King)
Which one, though?

�gM-Me?�h (Kira)

Well, I guess he is looking in her direction rather than mine.

�gThat�fs right! Ever since a few years ago when you kept making a ruckus almost daily at the Magic Academy!
Seeing that old fossil of an Archmage lose sleep over your shenanigans was the best!�h (King)

An Archmage?

Must be like a principal or something.

Come to think of it, this place doesn't even have any public schools.

I wonder if that's okay.

�gIs that�c so?�h (Kira)

�gOf course! You know I had wanted to invite your little family here the instant you arrived, but these no good
retainers of mine wouldn�ft hear it! There had to be a blasted dragon attack for them to agree to it!�h (King)

�gYour Majesty, please! You�fre undermining the dignity of the crown!�h (Strict-looking retainer)

�gBah, dignity! You lot are just way too stiff! Nothing ever happens around here! I�fm almost glad that dragon
showed up!�h (King)

I�fve been getting this feeling for a while now, but maybe this king is just really bored?

�gNow! Let�fs have a nice feast and get to know one another!�h (Bored King)

�gYour Majesty, surely-�h (Kira)

�gI order you by Royal Decree! Come on, you wouldn�ft want to be hanged for treason, right?�h (Bored King)

�gUgh! Understood, Your Majesty.�h (Kira)

�gAnd enough with that �eYour Majesty�f stuff! I hear it day in and day out around here, just call me Fred!
That�fs also a Royal Decree!�h (Bored King)

Wow, are Royal Decrees really this easy to make?

No, he�fs just bluffing, right?

...

Okay, he's not bluffing.

I think I'm starting to understand the pain of his retainers.

We�fre escorted once again to a different room with a long dining table and entirely too many chairs.

It was already loaded with a bunch of dishes and plates.

***

�gSo was it really a thousand broken bones?�h (King Fred)

�gUhm...�h (Ellie)

{1,302 if you count only the major ones.}

�g1,302.�h (Ellie)

�gHey now! You actually counted them? Aren�ft you impressive!�h (King Fred)

�gI told you, didn't I? Both my Moms are amazing! I still think Scrappy is cooler though.�h (Lara)

�gScrappy? Is that the armored dwarf I heard about? The one that got stepped on by a dragon and took it like it was
nothing?�h (King Fred)

�gScrappy is Kelly�fs armor! It�fs really strong and it goes clack-clack and-�h (Lara)

�gAye! It�fs my own design! It�fs a golem made with a lot of care and expensive materials!�h (Kelly)

�gA golem? As armor?! How does that even work!?�h (King Fred)

�gWell, see here Freddie, golems are pretty strong, right?�h (Kelly)

Great, now Kelly is talking about her work.

She�fll be at it for hours unless someone stops her�c

At least it looks like we�fve avoided the headlock.

Looking around the table, you wouldn�ft think we�fre in the Royal Castle right now.

Kira is eating her soup calmly with a satisfied expression.

She relaxed herself pretty quickly once the feast started.

I guess she�fs relieved King Fred didn�ft have any weird demands or requests.

He�fs honestly just bored and glad to have some company.

Lara and Sophie are casually enjoying the meal.

They�fre treating the King like he�fs just a regular guy who stopped by for dinner.

I can�ft agree with them, even while smiling and laughing he has some dangerous thoughts.

Well, not for us specifically, but dangerous in general.

Especially when listening to Kelly�fs bragging.

I guess a king has to be on the lookout at all times to protect his people.
Still, I�fm impressed the kids could get used to this so quickly.

Kira is right, they would make great adventurers!

If they want to, of course.

Hmm?

Wait, what do the girls actually want to do when they get older?

*SLAM*

�gFather! What is going on!?�h (Shalia)

This person must be the princess.

It�fs a girl about Lara�fs age, with black hair and eyes like the king�fs.

Her hair is tied in long twin tails and adorned with a silver tiara.

She�fs wearing an elegant blue dress.

Her face looks like she�fll become really pretty when she grows up.

She�fs quite late isn�ft she?

I think the guards went to find her over 30 minutes ago.

�gOh Shalia! Finally! Come, introduce yourself to our guests! They�fre the heroes who defeated that dragon
earlier!�h (King Fred)

�gI see.�h (Shalia)

Her panicked faces instantly turns into a neutral mask.

She walks over to us calmly and greets us with a cute curtsy.

�gI am princess Shalia Ferseit. Please forgive my father�fs behavior.�h (Shalia)

How cold!

Now I understand the king's troubles a lot better!

I don't think I can be happy if Lara or Sophie had this sort of cold atmosphere all the time!

�gAhh come on, what sort of reaction is that?! Look! Same face! And they�fre married!�h (King Fred)

I honestly wish he wouldn�ft show us off like some freak show, though.

�gFather, please take your position seriously. Mother will be most displeased when she learns of this.�h (Shalia)

She says that with the same emotionless monotone as her greeting.

�gC-Come now Shalia�c There�fs no reason to be such a spoilsport�c I�fll apologize later so please don�ft
tell your mother about this, okay?!�h (King Fred)

The king�fs face is cramping up and he�fs getting more and more desperate.

I guess even kings have someone they cannot go against.

***

Eventually the king crumbled under his daughter�fs gaze and had to stop the feast.

That princess was terrifying in her own right.

We promised to visit again once the Court Wizard�fs trial is over.

Apparently the king had something actually serious he wanted to talk about at that time.

For now, all of us are taking a relaxing walk back to the house.

Well, me and Kira are.

Sophie is sitting on my shoulders while Lara is sitting on Kira�fs.

They were both tired, so we are giving them a lift.

Kelly on the other hand is doing something that�fs technically a walk, but doesn�ft look relaxing.

She had vigorously assaulted the ale and wine at the feast while she could.

So right now she�fs swaying mightily with every step.

I guess her experience with the Drowned Mariner didn�ft teach her a thing.

I hope she doesn�ft cause trouble on the street, we�fve had too many incidents to deal with today.

I'm glad she managed to drop Scrappy off on the way to the castle, but I wasn't so lucky.

We've been so busy that I haven�ft even had a chance to clean the blood off my armor!

�c

Wait, is that why all the guards were eyeing me like I was a suspicious person?

Nah, surely it�fs just my imagination.

I hope Kelly�fs cousin will let me borrow a bath.

Come to think of it, I never even learned his name.

He�fs always gone on some errand whenever we�fre at the house.

Well, once we�fre back there I�fll find a good moment to ask.

***
I called a family meeting in the sitting room.

It�fs the same room Kelly wrecked, so it�fs still a bit messy.

�gLara, Sophie, I have something serious to talk about.�h (Ellie)

�gHuh? Did Mom eat something bad?�h (Lara)

�gMaybe she hurt her head in the fight?�h (Sophie)

What's with that expression of utter disbelief!

I'm plenty serious normally, aren't I?

�gGirls, don�ft tease your mother!�h (Kira)

�g�gSorry Mommy.�h�h (Lara and Sophie)

Good, they apologized so I won�ft be mad.

Not that I can actually be mad at these two.

But that�fs a secret, otherwise discipline might suffer.

�gWhat do you two want to do when you grow up?�h (Ellie)

It�fs a big question.

I never had the option of choosing a future, but I want my daughters to be different.

Finding their own path is important.

�gI�c don�ft know. I'd be happy with anything that makes enough money so we�fll never grow hungry again.
Mom and Aunt Kelly are cool, but I want to avoid dangerous work like that�c�h (Lara)

Lara is more down to earth than I expected.

I was sure she would want to follow after Kelly and become a mercenary.

Maybe living with one made her realize it�fs not the dream job she wanted.

Still, it�fs no good to have a passionless job like that!

�gOh sweetie! I�fm so proud of you!�h (Kira)

Kira picks her up and rubs Lara�fs face against her own.

I wonder why she�fs so happy?

No, actually I can understand.

I don�ft think I could relax knowing Lara was going off to fight things, especially after the kidnapping!
We should think about some sort of solution so that never happens again.

�gC-Cut it out Mom! That hurts!�h (Lara)

�gAh sorry sweetie. Anyway, I'm glad you want a safe job, but let's find something that you'd like okay? We'll tour
some shops when we get back to Runetap and see if something catches your interest.�h (Kira)

�gReally? Isn't it a little early to think so deeply about this stuff?�h (Lara)

�gOf course not! It�fs never too early to consider your future career!�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs right! Preparations are important.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat about Sophie?�h (Kira)

�gI want to learn to cook and sew and be a perfect wife!�h (Sophie)

I see, she just wants to be happy with her special person.

Hmm?

Does she already have someone like that?

No, that can�ft be, right?

She�fs still 6, maybe she�fs just talking about it in general?

Let�fs ask to be sure!

�gDoes Sophie have someone she wants to marry already?�h (Ellie)

�gYes! I want to marry big sis Lara!�h (Sophie)

�g...�h (Kira and Ellie)

�gSophie! Don�ft say things that will cause misunderstandings!�h (Lara)

�gBut, big sis, you said we�fd be together always! Just like our mommies!�h (Sophie)

�gOh thank goodness... �g (Kira)

Kira is instantly relieved.

I almost forgot to breathe myself.

Looks like Sophie is just misunderstanding something.

�gSweetie, you don�ft have to be married to be together with Lara.�h (Kira)

�gYou don�ft? Then why did and mommy get married?�h (Sophie)

�gBecause we wanted to be a family. You girls are part of it too, right? You�fre already a family so there�fs no
point in getting married to your sister!�h (Kira)
Not to mention it�fs wrong on many levels.

�gOhhh! I see!�h (Sophie)

Normally Sophie�fs a bright girl, so we thought she was being serious.

I�fm glad that�fs all cleared up.

�gThen it�fs like I�fm already married with Big Sis! I�fm so glad!�h (Sophie)

Ah, this might be a tougher opponent than the dragon...

Just so you guys know, I'll be commissioning some character art!

D-don't misunderstand okay? It's entirely for my own benefit, I just thought I'd share some of it, that's all! It's not
like I'm doing it for you, b-baka!
Chapter 80 - Honest feedback is vital if you wish to improve a skill -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gHere you go Ellie! This is today�fs share!�h (Clara)

�gThanks Clara.�h (Ellie)

I take the heavy bag from her.

This is part of the bounty Kira negotiated for the dragon�fs corpse.

It�fs been three days, but they�fre only halfway through dismantling it.

I think Kira overdid it with negotiations this time though.

If I�fm not mistaken, this amount is more than half of what we had to pay to rebuild Runetap.

That fine had taken almost all of our savings to repay, you know?

So by the end of this we�fll have gotten four times more money than we earned from two months of constant work!

�gSay Clara, can the Guild really afford all this?�h (Ellie)

I�fm a bit worried that they�fd go out of business.

�gIt�fs perfectly fine! This is Ellie�fs reward for being the city�fs savior! Besides, I heard the crown was
buying up all the meat we can carve out of the dragon!�h (Clara)

Oh, so they�fre reselling the materials and we get a chunk of the profit!

But it�fs a bit strange that they�fre focusing on that rather than claws, scales or bones.

�gIsn�ft the meat rotten already?�h (Ellie)

�gOf course not! The dragon�fs body is still alive, you know? The heart's still beating and the limbs sometimes
twitch a bit, too!�h (Clara)

What�fs with that bottomless vitality!?

If I hadn�ft separated the head from the rest of it we might still be fighting it!

�gWell, thanks again Clara. I�fll be going now.�h (Ellie)

�gTake care, Ellie! Come visit me anytime! Literally. Any. Time.�h (Clara)

Even without reading her thoughts I understood that's not just some lip service.

She is prepared to see to my needs at the drop of a hat.

Clara is incredibly thoughtful and considerate.

More people should learn from her exemplary service.

I wave goodbye and head out of the guild, turning towards the market.

Kira and the kids went out shopping for ingredients earlier.

She says it�fs bad manners to simply freeload on Bork.

Even if he�fs Kelly�fs cousin and barely uses the house, Kira wants to show her gratitude.

A home cooked meal by Kira!

Nano�fs cooking is better, but eating Kira�fs dishes brings a different sort of enjoyment!

Come to think of it, is dragon meat tasty?

If the king�fs buying it, then it must be, right?

The dragon was truly pitiful, but in the end it was an enemy that tried to eat me, so it had to be put down.

It reminded me of Blinky, the first pet I ever had.

I think it happened a little after my escape from that old fart.

Being the first time without anyone watching my every move, I actually felt incredibly lonely.

Nano tried to comfort me, but without a body it wasn't very effective.

Then, while I was a stowaway on a cargo freighter, I found Blinky sleeping in a cage.

He looked kind of cute so I decided to take good care of him!

Then Blinky woke up and tried to bite me, so I broke his neck.

Who knew a Sephorian Mega-Raptor would object so much to being touched?

I mean, I was only 9 years old back then, so I certainly didn�ft.

Though our time together was an all-too-short 40 minutes, Blinky retains a special spot in my heart.

Especially the rump.

Even now I can remember that chewy texture and juicy flavor!

It was the first time I�fd eaten actual meat in my life, so I was moved to tears!

Therefore, let's buy some dragon meat tomorrow and have a feast!

***

�gYou know you really didn�ft have to do any of this�c�h (Bork)

�gNonsense! What sort of example am I setting for my kids if I don�ft pay back your kindness! Especially after
all the trouble we caused! Now dig in while I bring out the second course.�h (Kira)

�gBut-�h (Bork)

Kira, who had just served us dinner, disappears back into the kitchen to prepare more food.

She rarely ever cooks so I�fm treating this as a special occasion!

�gGive it up, cousin. When Red decides on something it happens sooner or later.�h (Kelly)

�gMom�fs cooking again!? Sophie, you were supposed to stop her!�h (Lara)

�gI�fm sorry Big Sis...�h (Sophie)

�gIt�fs not her fault, Lara. Red has been getting better at resisting Sophie�fs assault. Next time shoot for a
combination attack, just like we practiced!�h (Kelly)

�gGot it! We�fll prevent her from cooking if it�fs the last thing we do!�h (Lara)

�gHey cousin, are you sure this stuff is even edible? She said it was carrots and meat, so how come it�fs purple?
�h (Bork)

�gDon�ft worry cousin, I have a plan. I thought something like this might happen so I always carry a bottle of
Rotface Wine. Just make sure you black out properly and you�fll be fine in a few days.�h (Kelly)

How can they complain so brazenly?

Have they no shame?

I can�ft let this behavior slide.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gThis is food Kira prepared with love and care. Make sure you properly savor it or you will not be forgiven. Am I
clear?�h (Ellie)

The entire table looks at me like I�fve just sentenced them to death.

What�fs with this overreaction?

Don�ft get spoiled just because Nano�fs cooking skill is higher!

I�fll show them there�fs nothing to worry about.

I slice off a bit of the odd-looking dish and put it in my mouth with a fork.

*Nom nom*

Hmm, as expected the taste is pretty bland.

But like I said, the feelings behind it are more important!

So I shall receive them with a smile on my face.

*Gulp* *Nom nom*

Kira comes back from the kitchen as I'm quietly eating.

�gOh my, is only Ellie hungry? The rest of you are just staring.�h (Kira)

�gS-Somehow just watching Mommy eat is making me full!�h (Sophie)

�gI don�ft feel well, I think I had something strange for lunch...�h (Lara)

�gAh don�ft mind me, you know I always prefer a good drink before�c eating some of your, uh, cuisine...�h
(Kelly)

I guess my warning fell on deaf ears, this is disappointing.

Especially the girls, I need to be more strict or they will grow up to be spoiled brats!

�gI sai-�h (Ellie)

�gLady. Your cooking sucks.�h (Bork)

�gHuh?�h (Kira)

The world seems to stop for an instant.

Kira�fs beautiful smile is now broken and stiff!

Oooooooohm.

Oooooooohm.

Oooooooohm.

Fuuuuu.

Okay, I�fm calm.

I shouldn�ft get angry at him since he�fs kindly provided a place to stay for free, but this is something I cannot
allow!

�gHow can you say something so rude to Kira! You haven�ft even tasted it!�h (Ellie)

I point a fork at him accusingly.

�gNo, listen here, missy! Trusting my intuition is what made me a successful merchant, and right now it�fs
screaming at me that I will forever regret it if I put this into my mouth!�h (Bork)

He stands up and points a finger right back at me.

�gIf anything, you�fre the one I�fm more concerned with! How can you eat this stuff so calmly!? Just look at the
table cloth!�h (Bork)

Huh?
Actually he�fs not pointing at me, but in front of me.

The white tablecloth has some stains on it.

Ah, it�fs because I suddenly thrust my fork out at him.

Since I had a piece of meat(?) on it, some juices must have splashed on the table.

Okay that was my bad by why does that relate to-

*Sizzle sizzle*

The cloth is letting out a thin white smoke while where the drops of sauce landed.

*Sizzle sizzle*

I can hear a slightly out-of-place noise coming from it.

Judging from their shocked expressions, everyone else can also see and hear this.

�c

�gNow you�fve done it cousin�c�h (Kelly)

�gDid what?�h (Bork)

�gNano.�h (Ellie)

{Yes Ellie?}

�gDid you disable my sense of taste?.�h (Ellie)

{... yes.}

So that�fs why it tasted so bland.

�gWhat?!�h (Kira)

Now Kira�fs making a panicked face.

�gAnd you�fve been doing this every time Kira cooks?�h (Ellie)

{... yes.}

Kira puts a hand over her mouth as her eyes moisten up.

�g... there�fs more isn�ft there?�h (Ellie)

{Also your sense of smell.}

�gTurn them back on.�h (Ellie)

I need to know.
{I seriously-}

�gTurn. Them. On.�h (Ellie)

Even if it�fs unfathomably disgusting, I need to know this flavor!

{Okay. Don�ft say I didn�ft warn you.}

***

I can understand now why Nano chose to block my senses whenever Kira was cooking.

I understand it, but I don�ft approve of it.

I swore to accept everything Kira is.

That includes this last bite left on my plate.

I put a fork in it and bring it up to my mouth.

*Gulp*

I swallowed it almost immediately.

There, it�fs done, it�fs finished!

�gEllie?�h (Kira)

*PLOP*

Hello mister floor.

How are you today?

Did you have some of Kira's meat and carrot dinner, too?

�gELLIE!?�h (Kira)

Kira rushed over and holds my hand.

I struggle to lift my head and look into her eyes that are filling with tears.

�gKira�c your cooking�c sucks�c�h (Ellie)

It�fs a harsh truth, but one that needs to be said.

My throat is struggling desperately to make words come out.

It's taking every bit of my willpower to keep Kira's dinner inside my body.

�gI�fm�c I�fm so sorryyy! I thought it was bad! That�fs why�c that�fs why when we met I didn�ft�c But
Ellie insisted! And you ate it with a huge smile on your face! *Sniffle* All this time I just thought it was a difference
in preference but *Sniffle* to think I�c I�c UWAAAAAAAH!�h (Kira)
�gDon�ft cry�c it�fs okay�c I will eat it�c every time�c my duty�c

since�c

I�fm�c

the�c

wife�c�h (Ellie)

*THUD*

My head weakly drops back onto the ground.

I unwillingly close my eyes and let a weak smile on my face float on my face.

I have no regrets.

�gEllie!? No! Elliiiie! Come back to me!�h (Kira)

�gMom! Mooom! I�fm sorry! I should have said something the first time! I didn�ft want to hurt Mom�fs
feelings so I-�h (Lara)

�gMommy! Please don�ft die mommy!�h (Sophie)

�gI�fll go grab a medic! You guys look after her!�h (Bork)

�gCalm down everyone, she�fs fine, just exhausted. She fought an enemy considerably more terrifying than
anything she's faced before, but she won. So let her rest and she�fll recover. Physically at least�c�h
(Nano/Armory)

�gSo she's just being overly dramatic? What sort of response is that?�h (Bork)

�gThat�fs not it. It's real. Why do you think I suggested you get black-out drunk first?�h (Kelly)

�gThis is no laughing matter! Sophie, you said something about practicing cooking, right?�h (Kira)

�gAh! Y-yes, Nano�fs been showing me...�h (Sophie)

�gThen, Nano, I have a request. No, an order! Teach me to cook! Show me how to make a dish is tasty enough to
make Ellie weep in joy!�h (Kira)

�gAre you sure? This will be a long and arduous road, with many challenges. Turning your demonic ritual of a dish
into something even barely edible is a task that's going to be much more difficult than something paltry like bringing
down an Elder Dragon!�h (Nano/Armory)

�gI don�ft care! If it�fs for Ellie�fs happiness I will overcome anything!�h (Kira)

�gHuhuhuhu, that�fs some good spirit! Very well! Then we shall soon see if you are capable of changing your
fate with your own two hands!�h (Nano/Armory)

�gYou better bet your shiny metal ass I will!�h (Kira)

�gYou can do it Mom! I believe in you!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! We�fre with you all the way mommy!�h (Sophie)

"Don't worry girls, I will claim victory no matter the cost!" (Kira)

"YEEEAAAH!" (Sophie and Lara)

�gWow, these people get oddly enthusiastic over the most trivial thing, huh?�h (Bork)

�gCousin, do you honestly believe that weapon she called a dish was trivial?�h (Kelly)

�gNo, you have a point�c�h (Bork)

Why are they so noisy?

I'm trying to sleep over here!

Ah, the cold floor feels nice...

Chapter 81 - A secret's worth is measured by how many people it must
be kept from - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

After recovering a bit from that dinner, we had a long talk between Nano, Kira and me.

Nano doesn�ft lie, but he does hide some things.

This case was something rather harmless, but I realized we can�ft keep this up.

So in the end it was decided to tell Kira about everything that Nano keeps hidden under our tower in the Eagle
Forest.

When we get back there, of course.

There�fs too many ears and eyes around this city of Kotero.

Lilly, for example, has orders to keep an eye on Kira at all times.

Even during our talk she was watching us from a nearby building.

She has been around ever since we left Runetap, you know?

But she�fs having second thoughts about her mission.

Lilly believes it was a failure on her part that Lara and Sophie got kidnapped.

Even though there�fs nothing she could have done.

And even if there was, she�fd be violating her orders if she did anything but observe.

But that�fs a situation that never happened.

Since she was trailing Kira, there�fs no way she could�fve known the kids were in danger.

Yet she still agonizes over something like that.

She�fs a good person, but she�fs clearly not impartial to us.

When observing a target for an extended period of time, it�fs not uncommon to become attached.

However, that can and will compromise her mission.

While her abilities are suited to this sort of work, her personality isn�ft.

I should have some words with her before she gets any of us in trouble.

But, bottom line is we can�ft risk revealing any of this information to her.

The problem is the people she will have to report it to.

That Bored King especially will get some nasty ideas, I�fm sure.

So we formed a simple schedule to expedite our departure from this city.

If all goes well, we�fll be leaving as soon as the dragon dismantling is done in about 3 or 4 more days.

The first thing we�fll be doing tomorrow is look for a place that sells gryphons.

***

We follow the directions Bork gave us, looking for a peculiar shop in a rather suspicious alley.

Apparently, since people around here prefer wyverns, gryphon eggs are unpopular and hard to find.

What we are looking for is literally the only shop in the capital that sells them.

But we decided our family needs a guardian that can watch over the girls should the need arise.

Therefore, the more intelligent and loyal gryphons are clearly better than wyverns.

And we�fre buying eggs instead of fully-grown adults because it makes them easier to tame.

Otherwise you have to earn an adult gryphon�fs loyalty and respect before it will let you ride it.

According to a book we found in the Guild�fs library, gryphon chicks are really sensitive to mana.

In order for the eggs to hatch, they need to absorb a certain amount of mana.

The one that supplies this mana imprints themselves on the baby, and will be recognized as the parent after it�fs
hatched.

Since the egg shell absorbs mana on its own, anyone can hatch one if they keep skin contact with it.

The incubation time varies, but it takes between two and six weeks.

After that, it takes about two months before the gryphon matures enough to be ready to fly, and then two more until
it reaches full adulthood.

But if raised with care, it becomes a lifelong companion.

We brought the kids and Kelly along for this trip.

Ever since that kidnapping, we don�ft let the girls roam about without one of the adults keeping an eye on them.

That is, one of them that isn�ft Nano - his ability is limited without the probes he normally has flying around
Runetap.

Also, androids are defenseless against magic attacks.

Kelly and Kira can sense the mana charging while my [Telepathy] can pick out hostile intentions ahead of time.

Nano can do neither of these things.

Ah, that must be the shop in question.

There�fs a sign that reads �eStan�fs Strange Stash�f above an unassuming door with a dusty window.

We enter the shop, the door jingles a small bell when we enter.

There�fs a bunch of weird-looking objects in display cases all over the place.

The rat-man shopkeeper appears from below the counter.

�gWelcome to my shop, dear customers! My name is Stan, how may I help you today?�h (Stan)

My mistake, it�fs a human, I got confused for a second there.

The shifty dishonest eyes and unshaven face gave off a strange impression of a rodent.

Also the way he�fs rubbing his hands is especially suspicious.

�gGood day mister Stan, my name is Kiressara. We were told by Bork Darkhand that we could purchase a gryphon
egg here.�h (Kira)

�gOh my, now this is a rare treat! I assume Lady Kiressara already has possession of a Flight Badge, yes?�h
(Stan)

�gOf course, it�fs right here.�h (Kira)

Kira points to the big shield-like badge Kelly�fs carrying on her back.

�gVery good! And just call me Stan, please. The �emister�f part makes me feel old when a beautiful girl like
yours-�h (Stan)

�gExcuse me, mister Stan. We�fre busy so cut the small talk.�h (Ellie)

�gAugh! *Cough* Yes, of course, my apologies.�h (Stan)

These merchant people, always with the flood of compliments they don�ft mean.

�gThen please give me a moment while I go fetch the items in question. Feel free to look around!�h (Stan)

He disappears into a back room.

�gOkay girls, you can look around but don�ft break anything, okay?�h (Kira)

The girls are already pressing their faces against the glass display cases around the shop.

But the items themselves are a bit disappointing.

�gAww, I was hoping to see a lot of fun stuff, but these are all things you can find in Runetap�c�h (Lara)

�gWell, this is the capital. Folks around here live pretty uneventful lives so even this much is enough to satisfy
their curiosity.�h (Kelly)

�gNothing wrong with living peacefully, though.�h (Kira)

�gYeah, you really should give it a try sometimes Red.�h (Kelly)

�gWhat do you think we�fve been trying to do ever since we found the kids!?�h (Kira)

�gYou mean picking fights with anything that moves?�h (Kelly)

�gGuh!�h (Kira)

�gOr running off all the time on jobs, bulldozing everything along the way in a rush?�h (Kelly)

�gOkay, okay! I get it so stop it!�h (Kira)

�gBig Sis, look! They have a Scrappy doll!�h (Sophie)

Sophie points at a small red cloth doll on a high shelf.

It just looks like a dark-red person, it�fs rather plain.

�gSophie don�ft be silly! That dirty rag doesn�ft look like Scrappy at all!�h (Lara)

The two�fs conversation attracted Kira�fs attention.

�gHmm? Well to be fair I can kind of see the resemblance. I mean it�fs short, red and grumpy, isn�ft it?�h
(Kira)

�gCome on Red, don�ft be like that�c Oh this guy has a Mountain Sapphire! Good-sized one, too!�h (Kelly)

Kelly points to another glass display case on the wall, the sapphire in question is inside it.

It�fs a glowing deep-blue gemstone in a square cut, looks fancy!

Probably used for magic tools rather than jewelry though.

�gThank you for waiting! Here are the eggs in question.�h (Stan)

Stan returned from the back room holding two eggs wrapped in a cloth.

They look like chicken eggs, except as big as watermelons and with a stone-like shell.

One�fs yellow and the other�fs a dull gray.

�gWhich one would you like?�h (Stan)

�gHmm? Hey, isn�ft the left one from the Northern Mountains?�h (Kelly)

Kelly looks at the gray egg with interest.

�gGood eyes, Lady Dwarf! You are correct.�h (Kelly)

�gDoes that matter?�h (Kira)

�gSure it does. Gryphons come in several breeds, you see. Well, the northern ones are called Winter Gryphons, the
smartest, biggest and toughest of the lot, but hatching and raising them takes a longer time than usual.�h (Kelly)

Huh, this information wasn�ft in the book we found.

It�fs a good thing we brought Kelly along to help us with this.

Dwarves have a special interest in gryphons and Kelly�fs no exception.

She hasn�ft raised one since it�fs outside her budget, but she knows a lot about them.

�gAs for the yellow one, it�fs a common Falcon Gryphon. They�fre fast and quick witted. Good for getting
around.�h (Kelly)

�gVery good eyes indeed, Lady Dwarf. These are the only two eggs I have on hand.�h (Stan)

�gI see. In that case we will be taking them both.�h (Kira)

This is the other thing that was decided.

One gryphon will accompany us on trips, the other will watch over the girls.

�gBut, with only one Flight Badge-�h (Stan)

�gAh, that�fs not a problem! If it�fs about another Flight Badge, we can just kill another Elder Dragon! It�fs no
big deal, you see.�h (Kira)

Kira puts on a wide smile and waves her hand, implying fighting an Elder Dragon is a challenge on the level of
buying carrots at the market.

�gGuh! Elder Dragon? Another? D-don�ft tell me, Lady Kiressara is the infamous [Red Sage]?�h (Stan)

�gMy, did I forget to mention it? The thing is, King Fred had-�h (Kira)

Ah, there she goes, Kira is in full on bargaining mode.

With this pattern, we won�ft be able to leave until she�fs won a significant discount out of Stan.

Well, let�fs see if we can find something interesting in this shop in the meantime.

�gHey Mom, what�fs this thing?�h (Lara)

Lara calls out to me while hovering over a display case in the corner.

I peek over her shoulder at the item that caught her interested.

I see, I always thought there might be things like this around the world, but to think we�fd find one here!

This shop is as shady as it looks after all!

Time to deploy counter-intelligence!

�gIt�fs just a mundane wooden tool, there�fs no special function or anything.�h (Ellie)

�gEhhh? That�fs so boring! Everything in here is boring!�h (Lara)

�gBig Sis, you�fre being loud...�h (Sophie)

�gNo, I agree with Lara. Come on girls, let�fs go outside and play!�h (Ellie)

�gYaaay!�h (Lara and Sophie)

Good, crisis averted, I don�ft want them asking questions about that thing.

It�fs not like I can�ft answer them, I could be called an expert at using that sort of tool by now.

But these two are much too young to know about these things!

***

�gGood day Ellie! And�c Kelly?�h (Clara)

We�fre back the guild building.

Whenever I visit, Clara�fs queue seems to be awfully empty.

I�fm not sure why, could it be a form of bullying or harassment like before?

I�fll need to confirm this later.

�gWe got a message saying the Grandmaster wanted to see Kelly about something.�h (Ellie)

While we were out shopping someone had left a message at Bork�fs house for us.

Kira�fs negotiations took a while this time too, but she got both eggs at almost half price.

Kelly ended up buying the sapphire she wanted at a similarly cheap price while Stan was still recovering from
Kira�fs assault.

The rest of us just played outside with my [Telekinesis] until they were done inside.

But this message was a bit unusual - they requested for Kelly specifically.

Since it asked just for her, it�fs probably not an emergency.

So Kira and the girls stayed behind, they are earnestly tackling Nano�fs cooking training.

�gI see, then is Ellie here to pick up today�fs share of the Elder Dragon compensation?�h (Clara)

�gThat�fs right.�h (Ellie)

�gI thought so, I�fve already prepared it, so here you go!�h (Clara)

She takes out the usual bag heavy with coin and places it on the counter.

This is good, even heavily discounted those gryphon eggs cost a lot.

�gWe also found another one of Ellie�fs swords!�h (Clara)

This time she takes out one of my swords and places it next to the bag.

We had used many of them as improvised lightning rods.

It was an effective strategy for getting past the magic-resistant scales.

I should talk with Nano about making something that serves this exact purpose later.

�gThanks, Clara!�h (Ellie)

I gratefully receive the black blade and coin pouch from her.

11 out of 12 swords are accounted for with this.

While I pulled out most of them once the dragon stopped moving, there were three that got driven in quite deep.

So we left their recovery to the dismantling crew.

Making them is simple enough for Nano and his workshop, the materials are precious.

We have neither the machinery nor raw materials to synthesize more Tritanium, it�fs a very finite resource for us.

Kelly claims there�fs something called Adamantium that�fs similar in toughness and weight, but it�fs near
impossible to get in Ferseit.

�gAs for the Grandmaster, I will go check to see if he�fs available. One moment please!�h (Clara)

With a smile and a bow, Clara goes off to the second floor.

�gI hope it�fs not another invitation to join the bloody Guild again�c�h (Kelly)

�gAgain?�h (Ellie)

�gAye, that Grandmaster is pretty much begging me to join every chance he gets. I keep telling him I don�ft
wanna be bound by no guild, but he doesn�ft back down easily. He�fs a stubborn as stone that one. Probably
moreso than Red.�h (Kelly)

Was something like that going on?

Well, it doesn�ft matter to us since we get Kelly�fs help anyways.

�gThe Grandmaster will see you both, please go right ahead.�h (Clara)

�gGah! Blast it, girl, you don�ft have to sneak up on people like that!�h (Kelly)

Clara was back before I even realized!

How is she able to hide her presence to that degree?

No, wasn't I just caught off guard?

That must be it.

�gThanks, Clara. Let�fs go Kelly.�h (Ellie)

We head off to the Grandmaster�fs office on the second floor.

�gDamn that girl is creepy. I can�ft tell what she�fs thinking at all!�h (Kelly)

Now that Kelly mentions it, Clara�fs mind was completely blank so I didn�ft notice her approach.

Perhaps I�fm just conceited and ended up depending too much on [Telepathy] to sniff out enemies.

There's no countermeasures against it in this world, so it's been incredibly useful.

But I've never relied on it in the past, so I should refocus my efforts!

Over-dependency on one strategy will prove fatal at a critical juncture!

This time it�fs just Clara, but what if it was someone dangerous?

Come to think of it, Clara would make an amazing spy, I should introduce her to Lilly.

Might be a better career path than getting bullied at the guild.

We reach the Grandmaster�fs room and enter casually.

�gAh, good, come in and take a seat. I�fm afraid we found something�c troubling inside the Elder Dragon�fs
stomach.�h (Grandmaster)

He gestures at the brown boulder on his desk.

Wait, that�fs a stone head, isn�ft it?

Did the dragon eat some important statue?

It�fs about two times larger than a normal head, but the face is incredibly detailed.

I swear the eyes seem to be moving.

Ah, they actually moved�c they�fre staring directly at Kelly.

�g'Allo, Sistah of Steel. I been waiting fah yah. Dis here Grandmasta be telling me yah be one of dem Daahkhands,
seen?�h (Stone head)

It talked without moving its mouth.

The voice sounds�c lofty, like it has no worries in the world.

The dialect is also something I�fve never heard before, I�fm having some difficulty understanding it.

Kelly on the other hand seems to have gone completely pale in the face.

I�fm trying to pick out the head�fs thoughts, but there aren�ft any.

Or rather, it�fs like I�fm trying to read Nano�fs androids - it�fs impossible.

It may be possible if I put mana into my [Telepathy], but I�fd need to unify with Kira first.

�gBy my father�fs beard�c it can�ft be�c�h (Kelly)

�gAye, yah guess be right, child. De time has come.�h (Stone head)

�gKelly, you know this blockhead?�h (Ellie)

�gUh�c that�c�h (Kelly)

I point at the stone head while Kelly�fs eyes swim between me and the head.

This is strange, like Kelly�fs turned into someone completely different.

�gDo not blame de Sistah of Steel. She is under oath and cannot reveal my identity. But as one of de souls dat freed
me from dat dragon's belly, I shall introduce myself as tanks.�h (Stone head)

Kelly instantly relaxes a bit.

I guess there are things she can�ft tell us, just like Nano can�ft tell her.

�gDaughtah of de Stahs, my name be Umphrumphil. De Breddahs an�f Sistahs of Steel know me as Umph. I am
one of de titans.�h (Umph)

This chapter brought to you by Little Jacob.

Breddahs an�f Sistahs = Brothers and Sisters
Chapter 82 - Most elderly people struggle to keep up with technology -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gThis thing is a titan? For real? Like, the beings who created the world and gave the gift of mana to all living
things?�h (Kira)

They just went to pick up our reward and for Kelly to meet with the Grandmaster, so how did they come back to the
house with something this ridiculous? I had to send the girls up to their bedroom since this might be a bit much for
them.

�gDats right, Daughtah of de Stahs.�h (Umph)

Legends say every last titan had been buried under mountains and whatnot long ago, so why was this one eaten by a
dragon!? No, come to think of it, wasn�ft the dragon technically under a cliff? And how come only the head is left?
Those are questions for later! Let's start with what concerns the present.

�gKelly, what�fs your involvement in all of this?�h (Kira)

�gI can�ft say. As in I really cannot tell you. Or anyone outside of Ecebis.�h (Kelly)

I see, so it concerns the Dwarven Republic of Ecebis. State secrets and all that. That doesn�ft actually make me feel
relieved in the slightest!

�gBlame not the Sistah of Steel. All Daahkhands are sworn to keep dey mission a secret.�h (Umph)

�gAnd yet you seem oddly forthcoming with these secrets�c�h (Kira)

�gUnlike de Sistah of Steel, I am not bound by oath. And dis one owes dey freedom to you Daughtahs of de Stahs
and yah companions, so dis much is de least I can do.�h (Umph)

It seems this guy started blabbering the instant they pulled him out of the Elder Dragon�fs guts. The Grandmaster
had a talk and explained the situation. Upon hearing Kelly�fs name, he raised a fuss how it was vital to meet her.
And so the Guild sent a message, Kelly went to meet him, and now we�fre here.

�gSomething tells me that seal wasn�ft meant for the dragon, but for you. The dragon just happened to be there,
didn�ft he?�h (Kira)

I don�ft trust it. Not one bit. This smells of Ancient Evil all over again.

�gDe Daughtah of de Stahs has it wrong. De dragon swallowed my shell long before it was sealed away. Dis and
dat are completely unrelated.�h (Umph)

Right, of course it is. I'm pinching the bridge of my nose in frustration.

�gYou must understand this is very hard for me to accept. Titans are supposed to be larger than mountains and split
the ground with every step, right? How did something like that lose to a dragon?!�h (Kira)

�gI was taking a nap, I didn�ft wake until well after I was swallowed.�h (Umph)

*SLAP*
My palm instinctively reaches my face. Of all the stupid reasons he could come up with, that's what he gives me?
And why does he sound proud it happened that way? He suddenly reminded me of the Grandmaster. Could
Mountain Giants really be descendants of the titans like the rumors say? And why would that particular trait be
passed on?

�gTaking a nap he says... I refuse to believe a lazy bum like that is a titan!�h (Kira)

�gBelieve what you want, child! Even if I was awake it wouldn�ft matter. I would still not fight back. We titans
do not destroy, we create. It is in our nature to seek peace.�h (Umph)

�gBut you�fre supposed to be immortal, right?�h (Kira)

�gImmohtality does not beget invincibility. While our souls may persevere, our bodies are but shells of rock and
metal. They can be bested, but they can be rebuilt.�h (Umph)

Huh? If what he�fs saying is true, then souls without bodies�c aren�ft they just demons? No, demons possess
living things, but if this thing�fs words are true, then titans possess objects�c as if they were-

�gUmph is a golem?�h (Ellie)

�gNot quite, Daughtah of de Stahs. De one before you is indeed a soul within a stone, but dis is different from de
golems made with magic.�h (Umph)

�gThen why did you make just a head?�h (Ellie)

�gTis a twist of fate. De rest of my shell was already broken down by de dragon over a long time until just de head
remains.�h (Umph)

�gSo why don�ft you just make a new body?�h (Ellie)

�gI�fve no hands nor feet to make it with.�h (Umph)

He stated it like it�fs the most obvious thing in the world! No, he has a point but-

�gSurely a titan, as a progenitor of magic, can create one with just a head, right?�h (Kira)

�gTis not dat simple. A titan�fs shell must be made without any magic. It must be given form through sheer effort
and will, or it is unsuitable. Once inhabited, it comes alive.�h (Umph)

�gThen�c what about the legends that say titans had bodies as large as mountains?�h (Kira)

�gYou have a lot of free time on your hands when you�fre immortal�c�h (Umph)

They chiseled mountain-sized statues because they had some free time? No, that�fs fine, that�fs perfectly
reasonable. Makes sense. If you were a moron with nothing better to do.

�gBut as I am right now, tis impossible. Dis is why I must ask dis of the Daughtahs of de Stahs.�h (Umph)

He wants a new body�c I�fm not sure what to do here. I have a knack for unleashing dangerous things so I�fm
obviously not thrilled at this idea.

�gRed, please. This is something that�fs necessary to me. And to my people.�h (Kelly)
�g... what�fs your relation to the dwarves, Umph?�h (Kira)

�gDat, I cannot say.�h (Umph)

So he finally shuts up, huh?

�gKelly, the world won�ft end if we just make this guy a new body, right?�h (Kira)

�gProbably not. He�fs telling the truth you know? According to dwarven lore, the titans were all pacifists. It�fs
partly why their current state and place in the world was lost to the ages. They all probably got taken out like this
guy over here.�h (Kelly)

�gAnd it�fs the job of you Darkhands to find them?�h (Kira)

�gI cannot confirm or deny that.�h (Kelly)

Mercenary speak for �eright on the nose�f huh? Come to think of it, nearly every dwarf I�fve met is a Darkhand.
Other than Oliver back in Runetap, I believe his clan name is Rumblestone or something.

�gHmmm�c�h (Kira)

I know the Dwarven Republic of Ecebis is an isolationist state that doesn�ft trade or even communicate with the
rest of the world. They�fve all just buried themselves under the mountain ranges in the north, doing whatever they
please. As far as anybody knows, even other dwarves on the surface are forbidden from returning.

But this makes it seem like the Darkhand clan is full of spies looking for information. They are literally everywhere
if you stop and think about it. There�fs always been a cousin or uncle or some other relative of Kelly�fs at every
major city we go to, but never more than one or two people. Also didn�ft Kelly�fs uncle back in Hell complain
how it�fs her duty to have lots of kids? As in, expanding their spy network?

Maybe I�fm overthinking this, dwarves are just a bunch of violent alcoholics who get in fights for no reason, right?
No, come to think of it, hasn�ft Kelly somehow made a lot of drinking buddies through this method?

�c

The more I think about it, the more plausible it sounds, and Kelly won�ft answer anything about it since it would
be betraying her country. Well, it could just all be my wild imagination. I hope it's something that simple for once...

�gWhat happens if we refuse to make this body for Umph?�h (Kira)

�gI�fll make it myself. I�fm only asking for your help because I�fm short on time and Nano�fs good at
making things.�h (Kelly)

�gIf you�fre suddenly short on time�c you�fll be taking him somewhere, won�ft you?�h (Kira)

She looks at me with a difficult face and nods once. There's more, isn't there?

�gSomewhere that we can�ft come?�h (Kelly)

�g... Yes.�h (Kelly)

So she�fs taking him back to her home country. It�fs pretty far, at least two months away from Runetap by
carriage. Even longer than that from the Capital. That means we won�ft see her for a long time. If we even see her
again...
�gYou�fll come back to us once this is all over and done with, right?�h (Kira)

�gI can�ft promise that.�h (Kelly)

Even she doesn�ft know what�fll happen, but she seems determined to go no matter what. I need a second
opinion. I turn to Nano�fs golem who�fs been floating quietly all this time.

�gNano, what do you think?�h (Kira)

�gCan't say. This guy is clearly suspicious.�h (Nano/Armory)

�gNo more suspicious den de one pretending to be a titan.�h (Umph)

Ah, now that you mention it, Nano and Umph are kind of similar aren�ft they?

�gI never claimed to be one. I�fm not even a person, you know?�h (Nano/Armory)

�gDat does seem to be de case. Dere�fs no soul in dat shell, but yet is speaks. How curious!�h (Umph)

Ah that�fs right, this guy claimed to be able to see souls. That�fs why he calls me and Ellie like that. Something
like the �ecolor of your souls are different�f is what he said. Well considering Ellie really is from the stars and our
souls merged together to some degree, he�fs not wrong.

�eDaughters of the Stars�f huh? It�fs fancy and sound romantic, but it makes us sound like sisters so please stop
that.

Back to the topic at hand. Neither I nor Nano trust this blockhead. But I do trust Kelly. This is her wish and it's
clearly vital to her on some level. Even if it means that she won't be with us. In fact, this is where I need to be most
supportive and send her off with my blessing!

�gI�fve decided. I�fll help you, it�fs the least I can do. But Kelly, don�ft get too crazy without us, okay?
Though that�fs probably impossible knowing you dwarves are a bunch of incorrigible meat-heads.�h (Kira)

�gHey!�h (Kelly)

�gDe Daughtah of de Stahs is impressive to have perceived the true nature of the Breddahs an�f Sistahs of
Steel.�h (Umph)

�gYou don�ft have to back her up!�h (Kelly)

�gThen, what sort of material do you want for this body of yours?�h (Nano/Armory)

�gAnyting will do. As long as it has a definitive shape and has no traces of mana, the material does not matter.�h
(Umph)

�gWhy is the lack of mana important?�h (Nano/Armory)

�gA titan inhabits a shell by forcing their soul into it. Inhabiting a shell that has traces of another soul would cause
the shell to destroy itself.�h (Umph)

�gAnd the shape, why does it have to be something sculpted?�h (Nano/Armory)

�gDe Fake Titan asks a lot of questions�c When a titan inhabits a shell, it is reborn. One cannot change their
shape readily after being reborn.�h (Umph)

�gI see. Then how about-�h (Nano/Armory)

***

The sun�fs already desperately retreating back across the horizon. I want it to take me with it, I think I�fm about
to die of embarrassment!

�gWelcome one and all to tonight�fs very sudden, but also very special performance!�h (Announcer)

The announcer stands in the middle of the grand arena under the evening sky. His voice alone easily reaches
everyone in the arena. Surely there can't be that many people out there though, right?

�gIt�fs okay Kira. It�fll be fun! We wanted to show off anyway!�h (Ellie)

I mean yes, we were going to use the arena to get famous originally. Having the support and trust of the people is
necessary if you want to be Rank A. But we already got that with the dragon fight! Besides, now that it's come to
this, I'm not having only second thoughts, but third and fourth ones as well!

�gCome on! Time to show everyone just how brightly Kira shines!�h (Ellie)

Ah- she�fs grabbed my hand and is pulling me along!

�gNoooooo! I can�ft, it�fs impossible! Let go of meeee!�h (Kira)

�gTo think Kira actually has stage fright...�h (Nano/Armory)

�gI introduce you the saviors of the capital, the slayers of dragons, the one, the only, [Blaaack Flaaaaame]!�h
(Announcer)

I�fm dragged into the arena lit up by magic just as the announcer finishes his introduction.

�gHURRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!�h (Crowd)

Eeep! When did these people get here! We only asked if we could borrow the arena 2 hours ago! But it looks like
every one of the 20,000 seats is filled! What did that arena master do!?

�gIt�fs okay Kira, I�fm here! Lara and Sophie are watching too, so let�fs not disappoint them!�h (Ellie)

�gI�c I guess�c�h (Kira)

I somehow find my courage. If it�fs showing off to a bunch of strangers, I don�ft think I can do it. But if it�fs for
my kids�f sake I�fd gladly dance naked!

Okay, maybe not gladly, but I�fd still do it! Under the right circumstances. Probably.

> Lara PoV <

�gLook Big Sis! There they are!�h (Sophie)

�gHURRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!�h (Crowd)

Wow, this crowd is really intense! I�fm not sure what�fs going on though! I was just drawing some stuff in my
room and the next thing I know I�fm watching my moms getting ready for a performance from a front-row seat in
this huge arena!

There must be, like a million people here!

�gAunty Kelly, what�fs going on?�h (Lara)

�gNano and Red called it a �especial service�f to send me off. You know your moms do some weird stuff all the
time, is this any different?�h (Kelly)

�gI must admit I do not approve of dis decision of de Daughtahs of de Stahs and de Fake Titan�h (Blockhead)

Geh! I still can�ft get used to that stone head talking! I mean it being able to speak is no different from Nano, but
the way it talks is weird!

�gWait, send off? Are you going anywhere Aunty Kelly?�h (Lara)

�gThat�fs right, it�fs sudden but I have to take this blockhead somewhere right away.�h (Kelly)

As expected, it's that damn stone's fault! Why can't he just go himself! Ah, he has no arms or legs...

�gWill you come back Aunty Kelly?�h (Lara)

�gI will try, but it will take a long time.�h (Kelly)

�gWhy are you taking Aunty Kelly away, mister stone?�h (Sophie)

�gDis not be by choice, Sistah of de Sun. De Sistah of Steel must fulfil her duty.�h (Blockhead)

�gWhat�fs a sistah of de sun?�h (Sophie)

�gHe means you two. Humans. And �esister of steel�f refers to me, as a dwarf.�h (Kelly)

�gWow, this guy is unexpectedly pompous isn�ft he?�h (Lara)

�gDon�ft ask. I�fll be stuck with him for months�c�h (Kelly)

�gThank you for waiting, ladies and gentlemen! Since our preparations are complete, let us witness what sights our
heroes have in store for us!�h (Announcer)

The crowd shut up in an instant! What is this?! Is it a prank? A ritual?

Why are mom and mom going to kiss right now!? Is this what did they come out here for!?

�g�g --------- [Unity]�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

Ohh! They�fre doing that thing they do! I�fm not sure what it is, but it�fs pretty cool!

�g WHAT!? What sort of magic be dis? How can dis be possible!?�h (Blockhead)

�gMister stone, didn't you know-�h (Sophie)

�gOne thing Red taught me is that -�h (Kelly)

�gThe way Mom explained it was-�h (Lara)

�g�g�g-it�fs your loss if you mind it.�h�h�h (Lara, Sophie and Kelly)

�gDe merging of souls is supposed to be impossible!�h (Blockhead)

�g�g�gIt�fs your loss if you mind it.�h�h�h (Lara, Sophie and Kelly)

�gBut dat spell-�h (Blockhead)

�g�g�gIt�fs your loss if you mind it.�h�h�h (Lara, Sophie and Kelly)

�g...�h (Blockhead)

That�fs right, you just sit there quietly and let me enjoy watching my moms be awesome! I wouldn't miss this for
the world!
Chapter 83 - No good deed goes unpunished - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

My moms walk towards the center of the dirt arena. They stand about 10 or 15 meters apart. Ellie readies her sword
and Kira readies her staff. They�fre not going to fight, right? I mean Nano says they�fre thinking the same things
when they�fre like that, so a spar would be like hitting yourself.

�g�g ---- [Fissure]�h�h (Kirellie)

Ah, they struck their weapons into the ground at the same time! I love how everything�fs in sync when they�fre in
Kirellie mode! It�fs amazing!

*RRRRUMBLE*

The earth splits open and there�fs a giant hole between them! It�fs perfectly square! No idea how deep it goes,
though. I guess the ground under the arena is plain old dirt, huh? They take their weapons out of the ground and
point them at the hole.

�g�g ------- [High Solidify]�h�h (Kirellie)

The dirt instantly becomes rock! The brown ground stops crumbling and instantly becomes a gray stone! They�fve
just made a giant�c square well!? What�fs this about? That�fs just weird...

�g�gMister assistant, if you please!�h�h (Kirellie)

Now they point at some part of the arena, but there�fs nothing there?

*RRRRRUMBLE*

There�fs another rumbling noise, but it�fs different from earlier.

*SPLAASHHHHH*

Gaaah! Blue water suddenly bursts out of one edge of the arena! It�fs like a river, what is this? It�fs flowing into
the arena and down the gigantic hole! I still don�ft get what�fs going on, but that�fs a lot of water!

�gDat water is not created by magic?! Where did it come from?�h (Blockhead)

�gYeah, they use something called a pump to bring it up from the underground well. It�fs a rather recent
invention so you probably don�ft know of it. They use it to flood the arena for some special events.�h (Kelly)

�gHow amusing! De Sistah of Steel is familiar with dis pump?�h (Blockhead)

�gLater, Umph, they�fre just about done.�h (Kelly)

I wish Kelly and that blockhead on her lap would keep quiet! Ah, it seems they stopped the flow! The arena is still
muddy, but most of the water has gone down the hole! It filled up rather quickly, maybe it�fs not as deep as I
thought?

Next Ellie throws three things into the water. Metal rods? And wasn�ft one end glowing a bit? There�fs an odd
sound between hissing and cracking coming from the water. It�fs�c turning to ice? That�fs ice right? Why go
through all this trouble when they can just make ice with magic? I don�ft get it.

�gI see. Dat Fake Titan has some clever ideas as you said, child!�h (Blockhead)

�gYeah, leave it to Nano to make everything more complicated than it needs to be just to show off...�h (Kelly)

Huh, Nano? But he�fs not doing anything, just floating off to the side of the arena!

�g�g -------- [Quake]�h�h (Kirellie)

*RRUMBLE*

There�fs another loud rumble beneath the earth, and the stone seats we�fre on seem to shake slightly. They
won�ft collapse this place, right? I don�ft think they�fd let them off with just a fine this time�c

Ah! The huge block of ice is now slowly coming out of the hole! It�fs huge! It�fs a cube of ice that�fs 15 meters
on all sides! The rumbling and the ice stop at the same time. I see, I see, they pushed it out of the hole.

�g�gThank you for your patience, our preparations are now complete!�h�h (Kirellie)

They announce something strange to the crowd. This was all preparations? So when is the actual show going to
start? The crowd seem to be getting restless�c

�g�gNano! Swords!�h�h (Kirellie)

Now Nano�fs turn is! It fires three swords at their direction? One is going at Ellie, two more at Kira. Isn�ft this
really bad? I know Ellie can catch these but Kira- Nevermind, she got them. When did she even put her staff back
into its sling?

Both of them are standing with a sword in each hand, facing each other with the cube in the middle. They raise the
swords above their heads and take a strange stance with their arms crossed in front of their foreheads.

�g�g ------ [Thought Echo]�h�h (Kirellie)

A faint blue halo of light wraps their heads for an instant.

�g�g ----- [Slash]�h�h (Kirellie)

They swing their swords down as they finish chanting the spell! Four gigantic transparent blades fly out and collide
with the block of ice!

* CCRACRASH*

There�fs a loud noise as four chunks of the ice are sliced off! They cut that huge thing like it was butter!

�g�g ----- [Slash] ----- [Slash] ----- [Slash] ----- [Slash] ----- [Slash]�h�h (Kirellie)

They start running circles around the block of ice, slashing at it from different angles! Chunks of the crystal-like ice
fall off with every swing! Tiny pieces of it fly through the air and sparkle like gemstones under the magic lights!

�gSo dis be dat? De Force Magic dey kept talking about?�h (Blockhead)

�gYeah. They called it [Star Magic] at first, but it didn�ft use any mana so it felt like a joke of some sort. With
actual mana behind it though, the results are rather scary.�h (Kelly)
�gFascinating! Dat Fake Titan may turn into a real one at dis rate! Like dis dey can indeed keep dey part of the
bargain.�h (Blockhead)

�gAye, seems to be that we�fll stick with them for a few more days.�h (Kelly)

�gEh, then when are you leaving Aunty Kelly?�h (Lara)

I�fm torn between asking this crucial information and soaking in my moms�f form with my eyes. It�fs rude not
to look while speaking, but this is the best I can do right now!

�gIf those two can finish making that thing as promised, I�fll stick with you guys until we get back to the tower.
But I�fll be leaving soon after.�h (Kelly)

�gAh�c okay�c�h (Lara)

I�fm not really listening. I�fll ask again later. My moms are too amazing and taking in all of my focus! They�fre
moving completely in sync like they�fre dancing! The huge block of ice is taking shape! I can�ft tell what it is,
but they�fre definitely sculpting something!

�g�g ------- [Flight]�h�h (Kirellie)

Ohh now they�fre flying at high speeds around it! They start swinging the swords so fast, all I can see are flashes
of light!

*CLANG CLANG CLANG CLANG*

Clear metallic sounds ring out as they strike the ice from all angles! Bits of it are shaven off as it takes form! Talons!
Huge feathers made of ice! Wings! A sharp beak! Keen eyes!

Little by little, a giant eagle made of ice takes shape! It seems to be swooping down on its prey with wings held high
above its back! The clear ice that�fs revealed underneath is truly beautiful! I don't see even a single crack!

The two abruptly stop in front of the eagle! They�fre drenched in sweat and melted water! Now they embrace each
other aaaand kiss in front of all these people.

Haaaah.

So they ended up doing that thing after all, huh? It�fs super awkward to watch them do that, but it�fs the end of
Kirellie mode. Wait, how long has it been? The red sky is already pitch black! I was so mesmerized by their
movements I completely lost track of time!

The two of them turn to the crowd and take a deep bow while holding hands.

In the next instant it felt like the whole arena had exploded! What�fs with this indescribable racket! People
shouting and clapping with all their might! Well, we�fre no different though!

�gYEAH! YOU GO MOMS! YOU�fRE THE BEEESST!�h (Lara)

�gYAAAAY! HOORAAAAAAY!�h (Sophie)

�gWAY TO GO RED! YOU TOO ELLIE!�h (Kelly)

�gMARVELOUS! TRULY MARVELOUS!�h (Blockhead)

TRULY AN OUTRAGEOUS DISPLAY OF A COMPLETELY USELESS SKILL

KNOW THAT THE GREAT ZUBLOS HAS WITNESSED IT

Huh? Isn�ft that the cake shop owner from Runetap? I saw him around the city a few times so I knew he was in the
capital. I look around the crowd instinctively. It�fs pointless even though the guy stands out so much.

Uwaaah! What is thaaaat!?

�gEEEHEEELLIE! EEEHEEELLIE! EEEHEEELLIE! EEEHEEELLIE!�h (Blue Crowd)

There�fs an entire section of the crowd dressed in the same sort of blue on the other side of the stadium! I can
easily make out Zublos at the very front! They�fre all chanting Ellie�fs name and it seems to be spreading to the
rest of the crowd!

�gEEEHEEELLIE! EEEHEEELLIE!�h (Blue Crowd)

That�fs no faaair! Chant Kira�fs name too!

�gKIRE-SAAAH-RAH! KIRE-SAAAH-RAH! KIRE-SAAAH-RAH!�h (Red Crowd)

I take it back. I�fll apologize so forgive me, okay?

Kira also seems to have her own cheering section! They�fre much smaller, but their spirit won�ft lose out!
Seriously where did these people show up from!?

�gWell den, excuse me!�h (Blockhead)

�gHuh? No wait! WAIT!�h (Kelly)

Hmm? Something�fs going on with blockhead? I mean I can�ft tell, he never moved even once. Not even the
mouth while it talked. Why even bother having a mouth if-

...

Huh? Was that my imagination? It sounded like something cracking, but the crowd is being too loud and I can�ft
tell.

*Crack*

No, that sounded like cracking, surely. The crowd noticed and is getting quieter. Wait, isn�ft it coming from the ice
statue?

*CRRACK*

It moved. The eagle is slowly starting to move like it�fs alive! There was more magic? And why make it a golem!?
Wait, can ice golems even work? Aunt Kelly said only certain things can work as golem material, right?

�gAh�c he went and did it�c Red is gonna kill me�c�h (Kelly)

*CRACK*
�gWhat�fs going on Aunty Kelly?�h (Sophie)

�gThe guy on my knees went to get a new body for himself�c�h (Kelly)

*CRACK*

Is that it? So it�fs like a golem thing after all, huh? It�fs moving around even more now! Twisting its neck,
stepping off the little pedestal it was sculpted on and lightly shaking its wings!

*SCREEEEEEE*

It lets out a piercing cry towards the sky while unfurling its huge wings! It must be at least 15 meters in wingspan!
The crowd instantly goes deadpan silent!

The eagle beats its wings a few times! The ground is still muddy so there�fs no dust flying up, but I can feel the
wind all the way over here!

�gYou moron!�h (Kira)

*SLAM*

Kira hits it across the leg with her staff while screaming! Since it�fs quiet, her voice could be heard easily. The
crowd started murmuring immediately after.

Wait, did that blockhead seriously take over the statue!? Well, I guess Nano does things like that too with all those
strange golems, so it�fs not too weird that someone else can do something like that, right?

*SLAM*

She hit him again, they seem to be talking something over, but I can�ft make out their words since the people are
buzzing around me. Wait, since when do golems have voices to speak words with? Ah but Blockhead is like Nano,
so it�fs no wonder he can talk even though it�fs a golem.

Hmm, the eagle now turns around and leans it head down towards Kira. She energetically pats and strokes it. Wait,
it�fs made of ice, right? Shouldn�ft that be really cold? The crowd�fs buzzing is getting a bit louder now.

�gKelly.�h (Ellie)

�gGah!�h (Lara)

�gEep!�h (Sophie)

When did she appear next to us!? I didn�ft even notice!

�gHere.�h (Kelly)

Kelly hands her the big yellow shield she�fs been carrying around on her back. Ellie takes it and jumps off back
into the arena. She covers the distance to the living statue in a few seconds and goes under its chest. She attaches the
shield to the surface somehow while Kira is still petting it with a smile.

Both of them now back away from it as it starts beating its wings!

*FWOOT FWOOT FWOOT*

A few moments later it�fs already flying up and into the night sky! A few moments more and it disappears from
view! Ellie and Kira once more take a deep bow.

What followed as a repeat from a little while ago, with the clapping and the screaming and the chanting. Looks like
it will go on a while.

Hmm, suddenly a light shines on part of the crowd from above the stands. Isn�ft that the VIP box? Geh! That weird
king is there with the princess! He�fs standing with a hand raised! Does he want to say something? Probably,
seeing how the entire crowd shut up in an instant!

�gMy loyal subjects!�h (Weird King)

His voice is so clear! It�fs like he�fs standing right next to me! Is it magic? Must be magic! I mean he was pretty
loud at that banquet, but this is an entirely different level.

�gAh, I didn�ft really plan on speaking tonight, but after witnessing something so breath-taking, I find I cannot
keep silent! [Black Flame]! Truly a wonderful display of finesse and magic! This old man was deeply moved!�h
(Weird King)

Oooooh! Praise by the king! That�fs pretty amazing, isn�ft it!? Although his casual tone seems to ruin the mood a
little. The king then spreads his arms and turns to the crowd.

�gMany of you have come to know them only recently, but the truth is that defeating an Elder Dragon attacking the
Royal Capital is merely the last in a long line of achievements! These two women before you have routed multiple
crime rings and defeated innumerable dangerous monsters across the kingdom!�h (Weird King)

Um, isn�ft this becoming a full blown speech already? And I think he�fs exaggerating a bit, isn't he?

�gAnd yet, even after subduing hundreds of bandits, every single one was left alive! They have even taken time out
of their busy lives to raise and care for a couple of unfortunate orphans they found on their travels! Such deep
compassion and love of life! Are they not also exemplary followers of the teachings of Enuri?�h (Weird King)

He means us, right? Well we weren�ft strictly orphans, but we were definitely unfortunate and homeless. Also
what does the church have to do with this? No, I guess Kira is pretty serious about that stuff since Grandpa is a
priest.

�gTherefore, I would like to take this opportunity to make an announcement! Lady Kiressara mil Quasse! In light
of your exemplary service to the kingdom of Ferseit and your ongoing protection of the lives and well being of its
citizens I hereby officially appoint you to the position of Court Wizard!�h (Weird King)

The crowd exploded with cheers for the third time! That�fs amazing! Isn�ft the Court Wizard, like, the right hand
of the king!?

"Ah, he got her good didn't he..." (Kelly)

Ah! Kira is collapsed on her knees? She�fs covering her face with both palms and shaking her head left and right! I
guess she�fs so moved she doesn�ft know what to say!

I�fm so proud, I think my chest is going to burst! Way to go mom!

FYI, there's been some new stuff added to the APO section of the Runetap City Guard Handbook.
Chapter 84 - No bad deed should go unpunished either - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

We�fre walking to another meeting with the king. Apparently it�fs not a �eprivate affair�f like that banquet
after we fought the dragon. This time the entire Royal Court is going to be attending! That�fs what his message
said anyway.

I�fm surprised he managed to gather that lazy bunch of nobles so quickly. I mean he just made that joke of an
announcement last night.

Yeah, a joke. It has to be a joke, there�fs no way I�fm fit for a position like Court Wizard!

But the rumor mill around the capital is already in full swing! Random strangers in the street were kneeling, saluting
and congratulating me! Even the palace guards stood on attention! It�fs not even noon yet!

I hope they�fre just gathered to give me an official apology for the king�fs bad prank.

It was a prank, right? It�fs that carefree guy we�fre talking about, so it has to be a prank. Please tell me it�fs a
prank. I don�ft know what I�fm going to do if it�fs not a prank! I�fm not cut out for life in the Royal Palace!

The fake smiles and lies and backstabbing and politics and backroom deals and everything else I don�ft want to get
involved in! I just wanted to provide for my kids, give them a bright future and parents they can look up to! So how
did it come to something like this!?

No seriously, how did we get to this? Okay, let�fs briefly review the events so far. Let�fs start with the important
one - Ellie and I got married. Then Nano had to find some boxes that could potentially ruin the world. We found
Lara and Sophie along the way. Thus we became one big happy family and things calmed down for a bit. So far so
good!

But, due to us being adventurers, we were apart from the kids due to the traveling involved. We could either cut
down on the jobs we took, or we could try for a Flight Badge. When the opportunity presented itself, we decided
on the latter.

Thus we sent a request for one, came to the capital, and that Rutland guy attacked us. We retaliated, a dragon came
out, and out of the dragon a titan came out. Kelly has to do something important, so we built the titan a new body
with the help of the arena�fs mechanisms. The king saw that and shouted �eCourt Wizard!�f without considering
our position.

Okay, so past the dragon appearing, there�fs not much we could�fve done, right? Come to think of it, isn�ft this
all that Rutland guy�fs fault? Okay! Let�fs be sure to push all the blame onto him! If it wasn�ft for that old fart
I�fm sure we would�fve been back home where it�fs nice and peaceful and nobody is trying to kidnap my
daughters!

*Knock knock*

Ah, someone knocked on the other side of the double doors! Looks like it�fs time for us to enter the grand audience
chamber. The heavy doors swing open, we step inside and wait by the door. I see a group of people in official-
looking clothing lined up on the side of the chamber. There�fs 10 of them, probably various ministers and
retainers, so we can�ft afford to break etiquette here. Even if the king forgives us, those people will not.
�gIntroducing Lady Kiressara mil Quasse of Runetap, also known as the [Red Sage] and [Dragonbane]! Leader of
adventurer team [Black Flame]!�h (Herald)

Oh, they actually let the poor guy finish his line this time! I think I notice a small smile on the herald�fs face. He
seems oddly happy, considering he just has to stand and shout there all day. No, that noisy king probably cuts him
off all the time�c

�gAccompanied by her wife, Lady Ellie mil Quasse of Runetap, also known as the [Bonesetter] and
[Dragonbane]! Member of adventurer team [Black Flame]!�h (Herald)

Well, Ellie being here is a given. The message said the king wanted to see both of us, even though I should�fve
been alone by all rights. I�fm still not happy about that misleading title though.

�gFollowed by their daughters, Lady Lara mil Quasse and Lady Sophie mil Quasse, formerly of Pororoca,
presently of Runetap!�h (Herald)

Obviously the kids are with us! I�fm not letting them stay alone in this blasted city! Kelly�fs too busy keeping
that former blockhead and current birdbrain out of trouble! The plan was to wait until after the crowd had gone
home before he took over that ice statue! We barely managed to fool those people that it was all part of the act,
otherwise we could�fve caused a riot! It's a good thing she was still carrying our Flight Badge at the time so that it
could fly away unhindered.

Honestly, if we could get that much clean water and open space without magic elsewhere, I wouldn�ft have even
bothered with the arena. It was convenient and Ellie seemed oddly motivated to go so I went with it�c I don�ft
regret it that much though.

Since the Herald finished his introductions, we walk slowly across the audience chamber towards where we�fre
supposed to stand, at the foot of the throne. I just wish we had more notice beforehand, we didn't have any decent
dresses with us! We're here in our armor and casual clothes! These aren't fit for an audience with the entire royal
court! The king may not mind, but I sure do!

When we reach the royal throne we all go down on one knee. This time the entire royal family is in attendance. The
king is there with a goofy expression as expected. Princess Shalia and what I presume to be the queen and the crown
prince are sitting on the three, smaller thrones that were vacant during our last visit. All of them have black eyes and
hair as expected.

The queen has her hair tied up in a bun and is hiding her lower face with a fan. The crown prince is standing there
with a smug look while his arms are crossed. He seems to be in his late teens. His face looks good and might be
considered handsome by most, but he�fs not my type. After all, nobody can compete with Ellie�fs perfect face ~?!
I could stare at it for hours ~?! If I have a mirror I can stare at both our faces at once ~?!

Ack! The side-effects of last night�fs [Unity] haven�ft cleared up yet! Keep it together Kiressara! I may be
selfish, but I must not literally fall in love with me! Even though I already did, in a way.

�gSo. Everyone.�h (King Fred)

The king�fs brief words snapped me out of my thoughts.

�gThe red haired one�fs Kiressara. She�fll be in your care. Dismissed.�h (King Fred)

�c

*SLAP*
�gOw!�h (King Fred)

The queen just hit the king on the back of his head with her folded fan! She then unfolded it and hid her face again. I
only saw her face for a brief moment, but it was definitely an unpleasant scowl. Almost as if she was educating an
unruly pet.

�gPlease forgive my husband. Your Majesty, if you do not properly explain the circumstances, everyone involved
would be confused. You don�ft want another coup, right?�h (Queen)

�gEhhh? But that�fs-�h (King Fred)

*Glare*

�gUrk!�h (King Fred)

She cut off his childish complaint instantly with an icy cold glare. His face loses color for a moment before he
collects himself. He finally puts on a serious expression! Queen, good job!

�gAlthough it seemed sudden, your appointment as Court Wizard has been something I�fve been thinking about
long before the recent incident with the Elder Dragon.�h (King Fred)

He�fs actually planned this out? Come to think of it, if he was really as impulsive as he seems, then this country
would be done for. He turns to the ministers gathered there.

�gThe Ministry of Information has been keeping track of Lady Quasse ever since her graduation from the Magic
Academy, by order of the Crown. Her name was on a list of possible Court Wizard candidates. Through several
interviews and meetings, Director Grimm has determined that she possesses a noble spirit and keen mind that is sure
to be an asset to this country and its citizens.�h (King Fred)

Where did this high opinion of me come from? I�fm not that sort of great person! No, I shouldn�ft complain. I
should be thankful they didn�ft label me as some sort of criminal mastermind with my 500 (and counting) arrests.
Even if the vast majority of them were false charges, misunderstandings or were dealt immediately after paying a
fine, that�fs not a number that�fs easy to ignore!

�gAs most of you know, I�fve been looking for a chance to replace Rutland as Court Wizard for many years, but
no worthy candidates have stepped forward. With his attempted usurpation of the throne coming to light, it is now
even more vital that his position be filled. Therefore, I have taken the initiative to personally invite Lady Quasse to
take up the mantle of Court Wizard.�h (King Fred)

Having finished his explanation to the ministers, he turned towards me. Those old geezers have been maintaining
those neutral masks of theirs ever since we walked in, so it's hard to guess their thoughts. Only the prince and
princess allow some emotion to appear on their faces. The princess seems to be staring this way with rather shining
eyes, while the prince is looking down on us like we�fre vermin. The queen is mostly keeping a watchful eye so
that the king doesn�ft run wild again.

As for our group, Ellie is completely in my-pace mode while the girls are scared stiff by all these old men staring
our way.

�gNow then. Lady Quasse, do you have any questions? Ah, all of you have my permission to speak up at any time,
so don�ft be so reserved and let me hear your concerns!�h (King Fred)

He turned back to being casual. Well he did give us permission to speak and ask any questions. Problem is I have
too many of those! I don�ft know where to start! I�fm trying to find something to say, but the words won�ft
come out of my throat!
�gKing Fred, what does Kira have to actually do as a Court Wizard?�h (Ellie)

Ellie! Thank you! Actually that should�fve been an obvious question! I have no idea what that Rutland guy
actually did around here!

�gDunno.�h (King Fred)

HEEEY! Is this all for your amusement after all!?

�gYour Majesty Frederick Ferseit, if I may?�h (Blonde Minister)

Ah, one of the officials here spoke up! He�fs a youthful-looking man with straight blond hair.

�gThe position of Court Wizard is concerned with the defense of the capital and the royal family from any
monsters or other dangers of a magical nature. It is also their duty to assume command of the battle-mage battalions
during times of war. In short, it is a military positon that-�h (Blone Minister)

�g-is no longer relevant.�h (King Fred)

The king cut him off with a wave of his hand! Well, I wouldn�ft want to serve in the army or anything so lets hear
him out.

"B-But Your Majestry, Court Wizard Rutland has been an asset to this kingdom for many years! Is it alright to so
easily disregard his office after all this time?" (Blond Minister)

�gRutland may have been a war hero in our conflict with the City State Alliance to the east, but that was over 20
years ago. The shaky peace we established at that time has been gradually getting stronger, and I have every
intention to keep it that way. Such a war-mongering position is worthless in times like these." (King Fred)

�gPardon me, Your Majesty, but what became of mister Rutland?�h (Kira)

I hadn�ft heard about a trial or conviction yet, but the king talks about it as if it�fs a done deal.

�gOfficially he�fd resigned due to his inability to protect the capital from the dragon and has secluded himself
away. Unofficially, he was quietly tried and executed for treason two days ago.�h (King Fred)

�gI see�c�h (Kira)

He was an enemy and a traitor to the crown. I won't say it's unexpected or that I'm sad to hear he's gone. However, I
refuse to be happy about someone losing their life.

�gWhat?�h (Prince)

The prince who was busy staring down at me suddenly stood up from his chair.

�gYou executed old man Rutland?!�h (Prince)

He seems oddly hot-blooded, just like the king. He�fs shouting and is obviously enraged. Seems he looked up to
that guy a lot.

�gSon-�h (King Fred)

�gBased on what?! Some harlot�fs lies?! She was clearly gunning for his position! How can you let this
insufferable upstart influence you like that!?�h (Prince)

Huh? Ellie�fs ears twitched? Oh no! She�fs already stood up from her kneeling position and is approaching the
prince!

�gEllie! Stop!�h (Kira)

I was too slow to react and didn't hold her back in time!

�gAnd you! How dare you approach the royal throne without permission! I�fll personally see to it that both of you
conniving witches are exec-�h (Prince)

*Snap*

�gGYAAAAAAA!�h (Prince)

And there goes the arm he was going to thrust in her face.

�gYour Highness! Arrest that woman immediately!�h (Guard Officer)

My life is officially over.

*Snap*

�gGYAAAAAA!�h (Guard 1)

I wonder if that City State Alliance will take us in? I mean sure we attacked the royal family, but its�fa foreign
nation so it should be okay, yeah?

*Snap*

�gGYAAAAAA!�h (Guard 2)

Oh, I should ask that birdbrain Umph to give us a ride!

*Snap sna-snap*

�gGYAAAAAA!�h (Guards 3, 4 and 5)

�gMom, do something!�h (Lara)

�gI wonder if they�fll have a nice beach somewhere where I can cry all I want�c�h (Kira)

�gAhhh she�fs gone into her own world again!�h (Lara)

*Sna-snap*

�gGYAAAAAA!�h (Guards 6 and 7)

�gHah! HAH HAH HAH HAAA! Look at her go!�h (King Fred)

�gMommy, what�fs going on?!�h (Sophie)

�gSelf-defense.�h (Ellie)
*Snap*

�gGYAAAAAA!�h (Guard 8)

***

�gHAH HAH HAH HAH HAH! Oh man! Hoo boy! AH HAHA! Did you see the looks on those geezers�f faces!
Oh that was priceless! OH HO HO HO HO!�h (King Fred)

�gIf you knew that was going to happen, why did you invite Louis to this meeting anyway? Did you want to cause
a scene!? Honestly, it�fs like you�fre begging to sleep on the floor again!�h (Queen)

�gAHAH! Ah, fuuuu! Sorry dear, but that boy had it coming! Ahh, but the way those ministers scrambled for their
lives was a sight! Ohohoho, I�fd pay good money to see that again!�h (King Fred)

�gOkay, I admit that was slightly amusing, but these pranks of yours have to stop!�h (Queen)

When I finally came back to reality, the king was laughing heartily with tears in his eyes while his wife was scolding
him. All the guards and ministers are no longer in the room. I�fm still down on my knees where I was a little while
ago. Ellie is also kneeling next to me. The girls are sitting off to the side along with the princess.

�gSo that was Lady Ellie�fs bone-breaking technique! It powerful yet graceful, just as President Clara said!�h
(Princess Shalia)

Wait, since when did the princess become an Ellie fan? Is that why she seemed oddly excited throughout this whole
thing?

�gI know right? It looks like it hurts, but it�fs for their own good! Mom�fs really strict with rude people!�h
(Lara)

�gBut she�fs super kind and nice if you behave! She even lets us fly around if we�fve been especially good!�h
(Sophie)

�gWaah! I�fm envious! I want to try that!�h (Princess Shalia)

�gI�fm sure she will do it for you if you ask nicely!�h (Lara)

�gReally?�h (Princess Shalia)

In the end, the entire family is like this, aren�ft they? I guess the princess and the queen just hide it better. Still, it
sounds like that king planned this whole thing somehow.

�gEllie, what just happened?�h (Kira)

I turn to the only person who�fs actually calm enough to respond appropriately.

�gUmm, let's see. King Fred brought his son here, knowing he'd act out and be rude. And that I'd have to snap his
arm. It was to teach him the folly of being conceited and arrogant. Then the guards came. Then the medics took
everyone away.�h (Ellie)

So he really did set up this whole farce? Just what sort of-

�gAh is the Lady Court Wizard finally back to her senses?�h (King Fred)
I snapped.

�gYou crazy bastard! Who do you think you are putting me through all that! Do you have any idea how scared I
was for my family's sake!? Please consider my position as a wife and mother before you pull crazy stunts like this! If
you pull something like this again I will personally burn off all of your hair!�h (Kira)

�gGuh!�h (King Fred)

I scream my pent-up complaints at this inexcusable moron! I don�ft care anymore! He wants to be casual with us?
Well he's going to get it!

�gLady Quasse is right! Your actions and position are incredibly mismatched! Also there are better ways of
disciplining your son rather than having his arm broken by some hooligan! Do you want that boy to rebel against his
father?" (Queen)

�gErk!�h (King Fred)

�gNo offense, dear.�h (Queen)

�gNone taken.�h (Ellie)

�gYeah daddy! You really shouldn�ft trouble Lady Ellie�fs wife like that! If she starts hating me because of you,
I�fll never forgive you!�h (Princess Shalia)

�gWaah!�h (King Fred)

The three of us are just going to keep yelling at the king until we�fre satisfied. He won�ft change, but at least
he�fll be quiet for a while!
Chapter 85 - When packing your bags, always remember to bring your
toothbrush - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

When are those girls going to get back? They�fve been in that palace since morning and it�fs already dark out!

�gHey Nano, you�fre sure those girls are okay?�h (Kelly)

{For the hundredth time Kelly, they�fre fine. They should be back at the house any minute now.}

Honestly, if Nano didn�ft reassure me they were safe I might�fve just charged through that front gate and-

�c

Who am I kidding, I�fm too much of a coward to throw away my oath like that.

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Ah, that�fs good! It took a while, but I�fm glad I tracked down and bought a whole keg of this werewolf-grade
ale! Imported from the good old bar in Runetap! The bar I�fll probably never see again�c

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Honestly, I don�ft want to go there. Dwarven Republic of Ecebis. What a joke. But I have no choice in the matter.
No, I have a choice, I�fm just too much of a coward. If they found out I�fm not doing my duty, they�fd have to
hunt me down. The girls too. Can't put them through that.

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

*SLAM*

�gYeah! That�fs the stuff!�h (Kelly)

�c

I really should stop drinking by myself. I�fm just gonna get more depressed at this rate. But there isn't anyone in
this bloody town that I can have a good old fistfight with! Come on people! Aunty Kelly has some stress she
needs to work out!

Haaaah.

At least that troublesome titan finally calmed down. He was so thrilled to get a flying body that he wouldn�ft stop!
I had to tackle him to the ground with Scrappy before he would listen to reason! Well, at least now the 2-month trip
up north should only take about 8 or 9 days�c according to Nano.

That damn Nano, always a smarty-pants! Even though there are no pants! Or even legs!

They give that guy a flying body to shorten the trip, I spend a few days more with them. That was the 'deal' we
made. Not like it matters, the Calling isn�ft supposed to happen until we get close to Ecebis anyway. It's just a
matter of getting a move on before the rest of my clan catches wind and accuses us of treason. At least cousin Bork
is a reasonable sort, so he's not kicking up a fuss about it. I wish he would, then I might have a decent fight on my
hands�c

Hmm? I thought I heard the front door. It's probably Red's lot.

�gHey Kelly�c we�fre back�c barely... �g (Kira)

�gWoah Red! What happened to you? You look like you spent the whole day punching rocks!�h (Kelly)

She�fs so exhausted she can�ft even stand properly! I�fve never seen her this worn out!

�gAh�c politics. Ellie, go put the girls to bed, okay?�h (Kira)

�gSure, Kira. You worked hard so just sit there and relax.�h (Ellie)

Ellie carries the two already sleeping kiddos up the stairs. That air-ride of hers isn�ft something I can get used to.
Red plops herself down on the dining table next to me and leans back in her chair.

�gWell I happen to have the antidote to politics right here! Aren't you lucky?�h (Kelly)

I fill her a mug of this truly peerless brew from the keg on the table and pass it over. She takes a big swig, but it
catches her off-guard.

�g *Cough* Wow! Werewolf ale! Nice find, Kelly!�h (Kira)

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

�gHaah, that hit the spot! Just the one though! Promise me!�h (Kira)

�gSure, sure, like usual.�h (Kelly)

Ever since our night out back in Hell months back she hasn�ft even gotten close to drunk anymore. It�fs a crying
shame, she�fs way more fun when she�fs smashed! I bet she doesn�ft even remember she punched three
people in the face for no reason!

�gSo, what�fs the deal? You gonna be all court-y and wizard-y or what?�h (Kira)

�gNah. Turns out that Court Wizard thing isn�ft a big deal and had loads of people lined up for it. He just wanted
to get my attention for a brand new office. �eMinistry of Progress�f he called it.�h (Kira)

*GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG*

�gHuh? What�fs that about?�h (Kelly)

�gHe wants me to use magic to make new things! Apparently the �enew things�f he saw us using were super-
impressive to him. Never mind the fact it was you and Nano that made most of em. The [Impact Pellet] specifically.
I�fm not even sure how you make those, and that guy wants to buy em up!�h (Kira)

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

�gBut! But I tell him - no weapons! I�fll help with anything, but no weapons! I don�ft want that sort of blood on
my hands. And that creation of yours - it�fs a weapon. Scrappy too! Come to think of it, you only make weapons!
�h (Kira)

�gMilitary Engineer, remember? Besides, Scrappy�fs not necessarily a weapon. With a simplified version it could
be used for all sorts of heavy labor you know? Well, only a dwarf could muster the control necessary for that, but it's
doable.�h (Kelly)

�gSEE!? That�fs the sort thing he wants! But I can�ft give it to him! Only you and Nano can!�h (Kira)

*GLUG GLUG GLU-*

�gAAH? Empty already?! Come on, what gives!?�h (Kira)

Wow, she is pissed off, isn�ft she. I hadn�ft seen her this agitated since that High Dragon crashed her wedding. I
seriously hope she doesn�ft sink the royal castle into the ground in a fit of rage�c

�gBut you took the job anyway, didn�ft you?�h (Kelly)

Otherwise they�fd have no reason for all that back-and-forth.

�g... yeah. Although, I'm not convinced I�fm the right person for the job. Even if everyone else seems to think
so.�h (Kira)

I see. She didn�ft really want to get involved, but did anyway. There�fs only one reason for that.

�gIt was for Ellie�fs sake, wasn�ft it?�h (Kelly)

She nodded weakly with a faint smile. Knew it. These two are always like that. They blindly support each other and
sod the consequences!

�g... she wanted a new type of academy. One that teaches about everything - painting, music, cooking, advanced
math, gardening, alchemy - all sorts of things the Magic Academy and Military Academy don�ft really bother
with.�h (Kira)

�gIs there a point to that sort of place? Them nobles won�ft give a single damn about most of that stuff.�h
(Kelly)

�gThat�fs the thing. She wants it to be for commoners. Open for everyone. Funded by the �eMinistry of
Progress�f yet run by others. That last bit is probably Nano's idea though.�h (Kira)

She looks at me with moist eyes.

�gShe wants to give our daughters and other kids like them a chance. A choice. A way to find their own path in this
world. How could I say no to such a noble goal?�h (Kira)

I see, I thought just Red was the idealist here, but Ellie�fs got quite a bit of that in her too, doesn�ft she? No, I
guess Nano�fs like that too, somewhere deep down in that cold calculating facade is a being that selfishly clings to
its ideas and morals.

�gThose two are lucky to have such great parents, you know that?�h (Kelly)

�gYeah. We try, you know?�h (Kira)

Red' smile gets even wider as she stares at nothing in particular.

�gYou know, they went to play with the princess at about noon. For the entire day. They had so much fun that they
fell asleep on the way back. Seeing those satisfied faces of theirs really reminds me why I'm doing all this.�h (Kira)
�gPlaying with the princess? What, just like that?�h (Kelly)

�gYep. Just like that. Apparently the princess doesn�ft have any playmates her age, so they hit it off instantly. Did
you know she was already part of Ellie�fs fan club?�h (Kira)

�gWait what? Since when? She was awfully cold towards us when we met at that banquet.�h (Kelly)

�gSince that little show we put on last night�c Apparently she got curious about those people dressed in blue and
ended up speaking with Clara...�h (Kira)

�gWell�c you reap what you sow!�h (Kelly)

Seriously, that receptionist girl is terrifying in her own right. I just hope her intentions stay pure. Well, she won't be
getting the drop on Ellie regardless.

Red looks at me with a raised eyebrow.

�gOh? And whose fault do you think it was we had go through with that thing, exactly?�h (Kira)

�gThat... Right. Sorry.�h (Kelly)

�g... it�fs fine. I�fm glad we did it. I got to make demands of the king you know. Huhuhuhu, I got a good
deal�c�h (Kira)

Urk! She negotiated openly with the king? And that wicked laugh... Please tell me she didn�ft bleed the country
dry!

�gWhat�fs with that look? I just asked for a few extra things, you know? Couple of additional Flight Badges and a
few of those city-scale magic stones.�h (Kira)

Flight Badges are for those two gryphons they�fre gonna raise. The one currently worn by Umph is necessary for
us to safely travel to the north. As or the magic stones, that�fs a really great idea! That way they can have a barrier
like the capital�fs around their tower. Those stones aren�ft something that�fs easy to get.

�gI see. Good deal indeed. So you�fll be living in the capital then?�h (Kelly)

She was pretty apprehensive about that. Living away from her father in Runetap, not to mention all those little
friends Lara and Sophie made over there. Also living too far from that tower is bad, they really need to keep a close
eye on that stuff in the basement.

�gNo, not exactly. They still need a few months before they work out all the details and preparations for launching
this new �eMinistry of Progress�f so at least until then I can do what I want.�h (Kira)

�gAh, that�fll give you time to raise those gryphons. You know those beasts can make it from Runetap to the
Capital in about 10 hours one-way, right? That�fll make things easier for everyone.�h (Kelly)

�gYeah.�h (Kira)

�c

Well, this awkward silence is now a thing. Time to retreat tactfully out of it!

�gWell, I�fm pretty tired after chasing that titan around all day, so I�fll be going to bed. Night, Red.�h (Kelly)
I stand up from the dining table and make my way towards the stairs behind her.

�gKelly.�h (Kira)

She speaks up from her seat without looking at me. I stop mid-stride.

�gWe�fll probably be spending all day tomorrow finishing up on what we spoke about today. We�fll be leaving
for the tower the day after. You can pack up what you need from your workshop before you set off.�h (Kira)

�gSure. Thanks, Red.�h (Kelly)

I make my way up the stairs and towards my bed.

Two days, huh?

***

�gI must say, dis is a bit humiliating!�h (Umph)

�gAnd whose fault do you think it is that we have to resort to doing this?!�h (Ellie)

�g... Fair enuff.�h (Umph)

�gHnnng! Come on Ellie, just pull a little more on your side!�h (Kelly)

�gI�fm! Trying!�h (Ellie)

*Click*

�gThere! Done, good job!�h (Kelly)

We finally got the leather saddle strapped to Umph�fs back. It was tough, but it's on there tight! I don't think we
could do it without Scrappy and Ellie's combined strength.

I�fm glad that shop managed to finish this on time. It just looks like they sewed a few wyvern saddles together in a
rush, but the seam looks to be sturdy enough. Well, even if it falls off in mid air, the worst that's gonna happen is we
lose some luggage and get delayed. Those two wives can easily catch the lot of us if we fall off.

�gHuff, huff, this guy should go on a diet!�h (Ellie)

�gWhat�fs a diet?�h (Kelly)

�gThe enemy of all women!�h (Ellie)

I see. I don�ft get it. As per usual she says some strange things.

�gMmm, on second thought dis isn�ft dat bad!�h (Umph)

Umph moves around a bit now that it�fs properly strapped to his back with belts around his neck, chest and belly.
He flaps his wings a few times before settling down again.

�gYes, I can get used to dis! Is nice and warm!�h (Umph)

Even though he�fs made of ice. This guy makes even less sense than Ellie! Well, it�fs not really ice anymore, I
guess.

�gNano, are Kira and the girls here yet?�h (Kelly)

{Almost. You better get ready.}

�gYeah, I hear ya. Heads up, Umph, I�fm coming aboard!�h (Kelly)

I channel mana into the magic tools chant the keyword.

�g ------ [Fire Step]�h (Kelly)

With a small roar and a pillar of smoke, I launch myself and Scrappy, landing squarely on the titan�fs back.

*THUD*

�gOof! De Sistah of Steel�fs creation is heavy as expected!�h (Umph)

�gQuit complaining, you�fll be fine.�h (Kelly)

We already did a test flight yesterday. He can carry about two times Scrappy�fs weight before he starts having
trouble with it. Well, I had to do something while Kira and the rest were back at the castle! It�fs not like I was
bored or lonely or anything.

I mean, even the kids wanted to go back there and play some more with that princess. Something bout high-quality
dolls and being waited on hand and foot no doubt!

�gI still can�ft believe he�fs actually warm and fluffy! It feels like he's covered in real feathers! Titans are
amazing!�h (Ellie)

�gToo bad the lot of them are lazy bums that are too afraid to throw a punch.�h (Kelly)

�gI can�ft really deny dat...�h (Umph)

I go towards the rear of the saddle. There�fs two large seats in the front for passengers and a bunch of room
towards the rear for cargo. This guy�fs back is huge! I think there�fs more room than that weird carriage we were
pulling around while looking for those boxes!

I lie down on my face and exit Scrappy.

*Clack clack clack* *Tak tak tak tak tak tak*

It�fs a bit awkward crawling out of it, but it�fs definitely easier than it was with the Sixth. I strap it in nice and
tight with the numerous belts.

�gKelly! We�fre here!�h (Kira)

Red calls out to us from some distance away. Since a giant bird made of ice would scare the crap out of the people in
the capital, we decided to group up on this meadow outside town.

�gHey Red. Huh? This is all of the luggage?�h (Kelly)

�gYeah, this should be everything we brought with us. Why?�h (Kira)

�gWhat about Nano�fs golem? Or those magic stones?�h (Kelly)

�gNano�fs [Armory] is already strapping itself next to Scrappy you know?�h (Kira)

�gAh, so he is�c didn�ft even notice him with that silent floating.�h (Kelly)

�gDon�ft mind me. Ellie, help me out a bit, I need an extra arm.�h (Nano/Armory)

�gSure!�h (Ellie)

�gWow! This is that ice statue? It�fs so fluffy!�h (Lara)

�gR-Really? Ah it is! Even though it looks like glass!�h (Sophie)

Well, looks like the girls are already enjoying this. At least I can give them a good memory.

�gAs for the magic stones, they�fre a bit too large so we sent them ahead towards Runetap yesterday. We�fll
pick them up with Nano�fs golems at some point since they won�ft fit in the [Gateway].�h (Kira)

�gThat right? Well that makes things easier. Now then let�fs get you all loaded and strapped in and we�fll be
off!�h (Kelly)
Chapter 86 - Don't forget to bring some clean underwear, too! - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

{Okay, you�fre coming into range of the tower. Tell him to go slightly to the left and look down, it should be visible
from this high up.}

I try to look around for it, but it�fs futile. Umph�fs huge back is blocking most of the view on the ground. I do see
Runetap off in the distance though, so this should be the right area. Well, Nano�fs directions haven�ft been wrong
so far, but there�fs always a first time!

�gHey Umph! Go left and look down!�h (Kelly)

�gLeft is it? Ah, I see something. Is dat black spire our destination?�h (Umph)

�gYes!�h (Kelly)

I�fm glad he heard me. No, it�fs a damn miracle he heard me! Even though I was shouting my lungs out, the wind
was in my face and my mouth was covered by a scarf! Normally not even Red who sits next to me can hear me!
That�fs why I wanted to put reins on the titan, but he refused claiming it�fs not a problem. He was rather stubborn
about it, which was unusual since he's a pushover. I guess even lazy bums have their pride.

But what�fs with this guy? The speed he�fs putting out is nothing like the few test flights we had yesterday! Even
though Red, Ellie, Sophie and Lara all put on the leather caps, goggles and scarves to shield their heads from the
wind, I just had to insist I�fd be fine. Because I was fine! Yesterday, that is!

I mean us dwarves can take the cold a lot better than humans, but even then my nose became runny and my boogers
became icicles! We had to stop in mid-air while I put on the wind protection gear. I didn�ft even realize my face
had gone completely numb in less than 15 minutes! Still, thanks to that speed that put gryphons to shame we made it
here in about 7 hours.

Umph started lowering our altitude in a grand downward spiral while reducing our speed. The good old creepy black
tower and wall finally come into view. I see Nano�fs golems are milling about as usual, patrolling the wall, tending
to crops and other odd jobs like that.

I guess we�fre a bit earlier than expected. They haven�ft finished packing in those huge mirror-like squares from
the ground. Yet another weird thing courtesy of Nano. Supposedly they harvest the power of the sun to keep
everything running while Red�fs not there. I think Nano�fs full of it, but I keep that bit to myself.

�gNO! Not there, you moron! That�fs our garden! Land over there in that empty area! Are you actually a
birdbrain?�h (Kira)

�gCome now, dere�fs no need for dat sort of language.�h (Umph)

�gI disagree completely! Those carrots are Ellie�fs favorite! If you dare to trample them up, I�fll make sure you
never even walk again, let alone fly! Are we clear?!�h

�gYes, ma�fam.�h (Umph)

Wow, she actually put a titan under her heel! Well, that�fs not so difficult to do, really. Umph caves in with even
the slightest provocation. He really should stand up for himself more.
I�fm never going to understand this odd fixation with carrots Ellie has. Because of that, they�fre in almost every
meal Nano makes! I�fm honestly sick of them by now! This has nothing to do with the fact we made a giant
tortoise puke out a box of them with a weaponized fart. This and that are completely unrelated.

Umph lands on the empty grass plot inside the wall. We undo the straps around our waists and climb down from his
back. Nano�fs golems are already unpacking and carrying away all the luggage.

�gYes! Solid land! Oh how I�fve missed you, mister ground!�h (Lara)

Lara practically leaped at the ground and plopped herself face-down onto the soil with her limbs spread out. What is
she even doing?

�gEllie? What�fs going on?�h (Kira)

�gTurns out Lara is scared of heights.�h (Ellie)

�gI love the ground! I never want to leave it again!�h (Lara)

�gLara, stop rubbing your face into the ground! You�fre getting all muddy! Come on, that�fs enough theatrics!
Let�fs get you cleaned up!�h (Kira)

�gNoo! Don�ft separate me from my beloveeed!�h (Lara)

Red drags off the struggling Lara who�fs grasping and grass and roots. I think we might have traumatized her�c

�gAunty Kelly, can we go again?! The clouds looked so fluffy and pretty! I didn�ft even know you could reach
them! It was amazing! And pretty! Can we go?! Let's go now!�h (Sophie)

In contrast to her big sister, Sophie seems to have actually had fun. She's bouncing up and down while looking at
me with expectant eyes. I want to indulge her a bit, but Red will kill me if something happens without the safety net
known as Ellie.

�gSorry, kiddo. I have to take care of some things. You just keep working hard on hatching that gryphon egg and
take good care of it, I�fm sure it�fll take you flying when it grows up!�h (Kelly)

�gOkay! I�fll do my best!�h (Sophie)

She runs off inside the tower brimming with motivation. Well, one of those gryphons was supposed to be their
guardian anyway, so it�fs probably fine if one of them is imprinted on it, right?

�gKelly. I�fm going shopping. Want anything?�h (Ellie)

�gHmm? No I�fm good. I already prepared almost everything back in the capital. Oh! Actually can you get me a
few kegs from the Hairy Leg? The one I got recently is already empty. And make sure you give everyone at the bar
my regards.�h (Kelly)

�gGot it. Don�ft leave before I get back, okay?�h (Ellie)

�gI wouldn�ft dream of it.�h (Kelly)

�gThen, see you in a bit!�h (Ellie)

Ellie ran off in the direction of the [Gateway] to Runetap. With that, it�fs just me and Umph out here.
�gDis place�c did de Fake Titan create all dis?�h (Umph)

�gThe way Nano explained it, everything here fell from the stars along with Ellie. All Nano did was put those
things to use.�h (Kelly)

�gI see. Still, de Fake Titan has an army of Fake Golems in a fortress made of Fake Steel.�h (Umph)

�gWhy do you keep calling everything �eFake�f like that? Do you hate Nano that much?�h (Kelly)

�gOn de contrary! Dis Fake Titan is endlessly amusing! And my words may seem harsh, but dey are not untrue.�h
(Umph)

�gRight�c Well then, Nano, can you bring Scrappy into the workshop? I want to put the finish touches on the new
weapon.�h (Kelly)

{On it. I�fve done all the prep work like you asked. You can get started immediately.}

�gThanks Nano. Umph, I�fm going inside to wrap up one last project. Just�c stay put and don�ft wreck
anything okay? Otherwise Red�fs gonna get really mad at you.�h (Kelly)

�gEck! Understood!�h (Umph)

I walk inside the tower and head towards the basement. I take out the Mountain Sapphire from a pouch on my waist
and hold it up against the light coming from the ceiling.

Yeah, this will work. This will work nicely.

***

�gYou know you didn�ft have to spend all of yesterday down there...�h (Kira)

The morning sun shines on Red�fs dissatisfied face.I missed out on spending the afternoon and evening with these
guys, so she�fs a little upset. I�fll be departing soon with Umph so the whole lot�fs gathered here to send me off.

�gSorry Red. It was something I wanted to finish no matter what.�h (Kelly)

�gWell�c that�fs how you are. I can�ft really complain too much.�h (Kira)

�gBut you�fre still going to complain, huh?�h (Kelly)

�gOh you better believe it!�h (Kira)

�gWell you can�ft threaten me with a pay cut anymore, so your words don�ft have much weight, you know.�h
(Kelly)

�gTch. You got me there.�h (Kira)

{You�fre all set Kelly, everything�fs loaded.}

I look over the luggage on Umph�fs back and confirm we didn�ft forget anything. I got my tools, some clothes,
my lucky mug, Scrappy, preserved foods-

�g-Six fully charged Magic Stones?�h (Kelly)

�gEllie and I filled them up last night. We won�ft be around and I can�ft trust those dwarven mages just one bit,
so we�fre giving you some extra fuel for Scrappy.�h (Kira)

�gTechnically, I�fm a dwarven mage too, you know?�h (Kelly)

She crosses her arms gives me a stern glare.

�gTechnically, you haven�ft been very trustworthy as of late.�h (Kira)

Red�fs way too sharp for her own good. I can tell she�fs figured out exactly what the purpose of us Darkhands is -
to scour the continent for the titans and bring them back to Ecebis. I�fm just glad she doesn�ft know the reason
why we have to bring them back in the first place. Otherwise-

�gWe�fll miss you Aunty Kelly.�h (Sophie)

�gYeah�c It�fll be lonely around here with you...�h (Lara)

The two kiddos grab hold of both my arms with teary eyes. I crouch down a little give them both a hug with one arm
each.

�gI�fll miss you guys too. And don�ft you worry about me, I got Scrappy to watch my back. There�fs nothing
more reliable, right?�h (Kelly)

�gYeah...�h (Lara)

I let go of them and look back at Red. She�fs still glaring at me.

�gRemember - you swore to me that you�fd stay home. You and Ellie just focus on keeping this crazy family of
yours safe and happy! You hear me?!�h (Kelly)

Her expression softens and she droops her shoulders.

�gYeah, I know. I don�ft like it, but you�fve had that whole �ewhere I go you cannot follow�f attitude ever
since you brought back that birdbrain.�h (Kira)

That easy? I was sure she was going to protest more. I wanted her to protest at least a little, damn it! Well, she did
already promise so there�fs nothing left to be said. Even if she followed me, she wouldn�ft be allowed inside
Ecebis no matter what.

I climb onto Umph and start wrapping up my goodbyes.

�gGoodbye Kiressara. Thanks for everything.�h (Kelly)

�gUsing my actual name is only going to make me more worried! Haaah, goodbye Kelly. You stay safe out
there.�h (Kira)

�gYeah. Same to you, Ellie.�h (Kelly)

�gGoodbye Kelly. Take care. Ah, Frank, Joe and Mark all wished you good luck on your trip!�h (Ellie)

Those sentimental old fleabags! I�fd have loved to stop by the bar for a farewell party, but knowing that bunch
I�fd be stuck there for days!
�gGoodbye Sophie, Lara. You listen to your moms, alright?�h (Kelly)

�gGoodbye Aunty Kelly�c�h (Sophie)

�gMake sure you visit okay! Definitely visit!�h (Lara)

Don�ft be like that! I can�ft look you in the eye if you beg so intensely!

�g... come on Umph. Let�fs go.�h (Kelly)

�gI see, den we will be off. Until we meet again, Daughtahs of de Stahs!�h (Umph)

A few wing beats and we�fre off the ground. The four of them down there are waving while shouting goodbyes. I
wave back in silence. A few more beats and we�fre already pulling away from that creepy tower as it steadily
disappears behind us.

�gIs dis alright, Sistah of Steel?�h (Umph)

�gYeah�c this is fine. They�fre good people, so they�fll manage fine without me. Even the one who isn�ft a
person. Ah, that reminds me.�h

I reach up to my ear and grab hold of the ear cuff. I remember Nano using it to threaten me. �eDon�ft speak a
word of this or I�fll blow your head off with it�f or something like that. Well, unfortunately, I�fm not so easy to
bluff.

�gYou can�ft come either, Nano.�h (Kelly)

{What are you- Oh no! Kelly don�ft *KHHHRRR*}

�gHNNNG!�h (Kelly)

I rip off the ear cuff and toss it behind me in the wind. My ear�fs bleeding rather bad, but it should heal up just
fine. Honestly, who would believe that little-

*KAKABOOOOOOOM*

�c

That was probably thunder behind me, right? There's no clouds, but that hardly matters, right? Umph�fs ice-like
feathers becoming a bright orange for a few moments is just my imagination, right?

It�fs my loss if I mind it.

> Kira PoV <

Well, she�fs finally going. Umph�fs form is steadily becoming a speck in the horizon. Hmm? Why is there a ball
of flame in the-

*KAKOOOOOOM*

�c

�gNano?�h (Kira)
{She took it off.}

�gThe ear cuff? You mean it really exploded?! What is wrong with you?! Were you actually trying to kill her!?�h
(Kira)

{It was shaped so it wouldn�ft actually hurt her. Just some singed hair, maybe lose an ear at most.}

�g... ours are safe, right? They won't suddenly explode for no reason, right?�h (Kira)

{Of course! I was going to replace Kelly�fs with a normal one eventually, you know? I just�c forgot.}

�gYou- no, never mind.�h (Kira)

So she actually took it off. Part of me hoped she�fd forget about it and that we�fd still be able to confirm her
safety through that ear cuff.

�gMommy, what was that?�h (Sophie)

Sophie�fs tugging on my clothes with a worried face. That Nano! Don�ft scare my kids like that! Why does
everything have to explode whenever you�fre around, huh?

�gUhm, nothing to worry about sweetie! Just Nano saying goodbye in style.�h (Kira)

�gOhhh! Way to go, Nano! A loud goodbye suits Aunty Kelly a lot better than a gloomy one!�h (Lara)

�gHeh, that�fs true, isn�ft it? Things are going to be quiet without her around.�h (Kira)

We stare off into the horizon until we can�ft see Umph anymore.

�gCome on you three. It�fs time for Kira�fs cooking practice.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gUgh, I don�ft want to be a taste tester anymore...�h (Lara)

�gStay strong Big Sis! You can do it! I believe in you!�h (Sophie)

�gSay sis. How come you never have to be a taste tester?�h (Lara)

�g... because I�fm not strong and brave like Big Sis?�h (Sophie)

�gR-really? Well, it can't be helped! Alright, I'll show off my guts today as well!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! You're the best big sister ever!�h (Sophie)

Lara and Sophie head off towards the kitchen in high spirits. They sure got over that separation quickly, huh? Well,
it won't last that long anyway.

�gKira. We�fre still going after Kelly, right?�h (Ellie)

�gOh you better believe it!�h (Kira)

Chapter 87 - First-aid kits are also good to have on a trip. Accidents do
happen! - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

It�fs getting dark, daylight should be completely gone soon. We should stop for the night somewhere. Let�fs
see�c Oh, that�fs a good spot!

�gLand on that plateau on our right!�h (Kelly)

�gGot it.�h (Umph)

Umph went in for a landing as instructed. Even with taking taking breaks every four-to-five hours and sleeping at
night we�fre almost there. The normally two month trip should only take a few more days to complete. I think.
Navigating by just the sun and stars is a bit iffy, so I�fm not sure exactly how much ground we�fve covered.

Why is it that out of all those folks, the one I started to miss first was Nano? Well, not like you need precision. The
Ecebis Mountain Range is easy to find if you just go north. Then I just need to find the two highest peaks and I�fll
know the rest of the way from there.

Umph lands on the grassy plateau. I dismount him and stretch my legs and arms.

�gDat spot looks good to de Sistah of Steel?�h (Umph)

He uses his beak to point at a random patch of land with absolutely nothing on it. It looks exactly like the rest of the
plateau.

�g... It�fs all the same, isn�ft it?�h (Kelly)

I mean, there�fs nothing but grass around here. No trees or wildlife. No monsters either, but without firewood or
ways to procure food it�fs a truly inhospitable place. At least there�fs a cold wind at night! Isn�ft that nice!?
Because obviously I had to find a titan just as the season�fs turning to winter!

�gDat is not so. Location is very important when-�h (Umph)

�gI don�ft care! Just make the bloody house already!�h (Kelly)

�gVery well.�h (Umph)

Umph closes his eyes and stands perfectly still for several seconds. Soon enough, a low, soothing hum can be heard
around me. It seems to come from beneath the ground.

*Crack* *Rumble*

The earth slowly splits open as a small stone hut gently rises from it like it�fs sinking in reverse. As soon as the
doorway fully leaves the ground, the humming and rumbling fade away in unison. Umph who was like a statue - or
isn�ft he literally a statue? - until now opens his eyes and shakes his head, as if waking up.

�gAll done.�h (Umph)

�gYeah. Thanks again, Umph.�h (Kelly)

�gAny time, Sistah of Steel.�h (Umph)

�gSo how do you do that?�h (Kelly)

�gI just asked de stone in the ground for a favor.�h (Umph)

What, just like that? What about that outrageous flow of mana or the disembodied voice or-

�gI see.�h (Kelly)

That was close. I almost minded it and started asking questions. That's a bad idea.

This guy loves to make long-winded explanations that make no sense. I mean, the simple �edo you eat anything?
�f somehow turned into a hour-long story of how water is wet and why grass is green or something. I don�ft
know, I spaced out in the middle of it. A simple �eNo�f would�fve sufficed, you know?

I grab a water canteen, some wood, food and a sleeping bag from the luggage. This should last me through the night.
Even if this guy can keep going day and night, I can�ft. I tried to sleep in the air, but the constant shaking and
fierce winds made that impossible. And since I need to be sure I�fm in peak condition, this is the solution we came
up with.

�gI�fll be getting some rest. You know the drill.�h (Kelly)

�gLeave it to me, Sistah of Steel.�h (Umph)

At least he can make for a good lookout. He won�ft actually fight any intruding monsters, but as long as he wakes
me up in time I can take care of it. I sit down in the hut and get a fire going in the small fireplace. I eat the hard
bread and dried meat in silence.

�c

I miss that noisy dining table.

�gSistah of Steel!�h (Umph)

Umph suddenly yells from the outside, so I charge out of the hut. The sun�fs completely gone now. Khamis Jr. is
out so it's not quite pitch black out here.

"What's wrong?" (Kelly)

�gDe Calling. It�fs beginning.�h (Umph)

�gWhat? Already? Crap, we must�fve been closer than I thought! It's okay, I got this! Probably!�h (Kelly)

�gDen. I will be�c in.. your... ca�c re�c�h (Umph)

And there he goes. Not asleep, just dormant. I�fm glad I�fve taken to wearing Scrappy while flying. It doesn�ft
completely block the wind, but at least I don�ft need to waste time strapping and unstrapping it!

For now, let�fs get the light situation sorted. It�fs nearly pitch black out here and if the Calling comes, it�fll get
worse! Looking up at the sky, the twinkle of the stars and pale white light of Khamis Jr. are slowly fading away!
Exactly like the lore books described it. I put my fists together and chant a spell.

�g ---- [Light Orb]�h (Kelly)

A ball of light the size of my head appeared and floated in the air like a miniature sun. I send it to hover directly
over Umph�fs body. With this I can see clearly in a circle that�fs easily over 25 meters around him. This is going
to be my stronghold.

*Tak tak tak tak tak tak*

I bring out the maces and stand ready. The area is completely silent for now, but it won�ft be for long.

�gCome on Kelly�c Fuuuu. You can do this.�h (Kelly)

I try to calm myself down and focus my senses.

...

�c

There!

�gKuaaaa!�h (Figment)

A goblin-shaped shadow leaps out of the darkness and rushes me.

�gHEYAH!�h (Kelly)

*Slam*

My mace hits it dead on. It made a satisfying noise as the Figment�fs head is torn clean off its body. It�fs still not
going down though. Oh, whoops!

�gYAH! YAH! HEYA!�h (Kelly)

*Slam Slam Smash*

I hit it with a quick three-part combination and the small Figment disappears into a black mist. That's the way! I
forgot my enemy wasn't alive and attacked the vital spot by reflex. Since it�fs a lump of smog held together by
mana, you just have to hit it until it scatters. It�fs closer to a golem than a monster, really.

�gKakakakakakaka�h (Figments)

I hear numerous voices cackling in the surrounding darkness. Everything outside the range of my [Light Orb] has
turned absolutely pitch black by now. Umph�fs half-transparent body is lying motionlessly on the ground. Maybe
making it this large was a mistake? Still, it�fll be fine as long as I stop any encroachment on time.

Figments start appearing out of the darkness and step into the light. They�fre shaped like lower-ranked monsters -
goblins, orcs and trolls. They�fre all holding various weapons.

Bah, they're underestimating me! I can take this bunch with my eyes closed!

They charge at me from all sides. First come a group of a dozen or so Goblin Figments. They�fre fast so they
outrun their slower comrades. This time I attack them properly with body blows and they disappear in two, maybe
three hits.

Some of them slash at me with their swords. While those weapons may simply be condensed parts of their bodies,
they�fre still as strong as steel. Or rather, I should say they�fre only that strong.

Their clumsy attacks bounce harmlessly off Scrappy�fs exterior. They�fre too stupid to aim for vulnerable places
like the armpit or behind the knee. Well, Scrappy has those covered anyway. It means I can just rampage and wipe
them out to my heart�fs content! Making Scrappy with a heavy focus on defense really was for the best!

�gHaa-yah!�h (Kelly)

I crush the last of them between my maces and it collapses into black fog like the rest. The seven Orc Figments
come at me next. Big muscle-bound monsters in the vague shape of a human, with tusks protruding out of their jaws.
Truly a face even a mother would spit on!

These ones are tougher than those Goblin Figments! They take almost twice as many hits before going down
and their two-handed axes and swords hit much harder. They�fre still only at the level of steel and don�ft even put
a scratch on Scrappy, though!

I�fve only taken down three of them when I notice the five Troll Figments are approaching Umph! As expected,
they�fre wary of approaching the bright [Light Orb]! Right, let�fs test if this works! I break away from the Orc
Figments for a moment and point my mace at the floating ball! I may not be as good at this as Red, but-

�g -[Impact]�h (Kelly)

*BADUM*

The [Light Orb] bursts with a flash, bathing the whole area in a blinding white radiance for several seconds. This
time, I remembered to close my eyes! I could still see the intense light through my eyelids though!

*SSSSSHAAASHHAAA*

I hear a low hissing noise. Good, it looks like that was effective. Problem is now it�fs way too dark to see what
I�fm doing!

�g --- [Light Orb]�h (Kelly)

I summon another ball of light, but it�fs a rushed one so it�fs weaker than the last. The light is dimmer and
doesn�ft help as much against this oppressing darkness, but at least I can see! Only two Troll Figments and three
Orc Figments are left, but they�fre all stunned. Good!

I mop them up quickly. The Troll Figments were actually really weak! Well, they only copy the shape. It�fs not
like those things can regenerate rapidly like actual trolls can. Now there is only one problem.

�gGGRRRAAAARR!�h (Cyclops Figment)

Make that two. Right, this is a big one. Looks like a 5, maybe 6 meter tall Cyclops. The enormous pot belly and
stubby legs make it slow, and even though I can�ft make out an expression, it�fs undoubtedly an extremely dumb
one. It takes slow heavy steps towards me.

Taking down a Cyclops normally involves attacking the legs so it falls, preferably forward. After that you just focus
on its head until it stops moving. A Figment has no vital spots though, so showering this big thing with blows is
going to take a while. Normally.

I raise a hand at it and, while still gripping the mace, I point at it with my index finger. I refocus my control of the
golem to that fingertip - it opens slightly and with a very slight noise, shoots out an [Impact Pellet]. The big and
slow Figment couldn't dodge it even if it wanted to, so it smashes open against its body.
*Ting*

*PUH-KAAAAN*

With a loud sound that�fs almost like an explosion inside a cave, the Cyclops Figment explodes into a dark cloud
of smoke. Good, the test was a success! I really need to thank Red for teaching me the [Impact] spell! Using it like
this will make it really easy to bring down those big ones.

As usual she was right - this is a weapon, made for fighting these things. The theory was there, I�fm just glad it
actually worked! Technically, just this much would have made my pilgrimage a success! Even if a titan wasn't found
in my lifetime, Ecebis would preserve the knowledge for future generations.

The light of the stars and the moon is becoming visible, looks like the first part of the Calling is over. Now I can turn
my attention to the real problem - the black smoke.

I turn around and, as expected, it�fs seeping steadily into the unconscious Umph, slowly tainting that transparent
body of his with darkness, as if spilling ink into a lake. I quickly step out of Scrappy and walk towards Umph. After
taking off my work gloves, I steel myself and put both hands on his plumage!

The black miasma surrounding me starts rapidly seeping into my skin while the black ink-like substance inside the
titan is being pulled steadily into my hands!

�gHHRRNNG!�h (Kelly)

I let out a pained groan as pain like being showered with needles assaults me! I see tendrils of black encroach my
vision before I completely lose control.

�gRRRAAAAAGH!�h (Kelly)

***

I�fm panting heavily, drenched in sweat and completely unable to move. My arms and legs are covered in bruises
and everything hurts, but at least no bones are broken. Is that the morning sky? Damn, it really did last all night�c

�gIt is good to see de Sistah of Steel is well. You handled de first Calling pretty good!�h (Umph)

�gYou *Pant* call this *Pant* �epretty good�f ?�h (Kelly)

�gIndeed. De Sistah of Steel is still alive and of sound mind. All things considered, I think dat�fs pretty good.�h
(Umph)

Yeah. All things considered�c

�gWhat about *Pant* you? I sure did a number *Pant* on you.�h (Kelly)

I vaguely remember my rampage after absorbing what was left of the Figments. I recall furiously punching and
kicking the only living thing in the area - the titan. As a result, a wing seems to be broken, and parts of the plumage
seem to be�c bloody. The saddle is a bit worse for wear, too. I hope it holds out�c

�gDis much is nothing. Since no pieces were broken off, tis a simple task to mend it.�h (Umph)

�gThen why *Pant* haven�ft you?�h (Kelly)

�gIt is my way of sharing in your pain, Sistah of Steel. Misery loves company, as dey say.�h (Umph)

�gHah. Hahaha! Ow! It hurts to laugh!�h (Kelly)

I didn�ft break a rib, did I? That would suck. I have some potions, but nothing strong enough to heal a bone
fracture. I look over at where Scrappy is standing. I see some blood stains on it, I guess I punched it a few times too.
Let�fs make sure to hide it out of sight next time.

�c

There�fs going to be a next time, isn�ft there? If I have to go through this every night, it means I have to sleep
during the day. The time we can fly around in has been reduced by half.

�c

I think my body�fs recovered a bit. At least my breathing�fs back to normal.

�gHey Umph. Two questions.�h (Kelly)

�gYes? What is it, Sistah of Steel?�h (Umph)

�gCan we fly at night?�h (Kelly)

�gNo. De Calling will find me so long as I am close to de Dark One. And me losing control in mid-air is something
we want to avoid, yes?�h (Umph)

�gYeah.�h (Kelly)

Well, it was worth a shot, but I guess it won�ft be that easy. Next about that other thing he said.

�gWhat happens if chunks get�c broken off you?�h (Kelly)

�gAh! Well, de shell pieces dat get separated from my soul nucleus will lose de pseudo-life properties we titans
imbue dem with. It�fs an indirect consequence of-�h (Umph)

�gHey! Simple words! I don�ft have all day over here!�h (Kelly)

Please spare me! I tried listening to his explanations before and basically fell asleep! Actually, falling asleep sounds
good right now, but it's more important to know what I'm dealing with!

�g *Ahem* Dey will turn back into normal ice and I cannot regenerate dem.�h (Umph)

Exactly like a living statue, huh? Then as long as I get out of Scrappy before flipping out, I can avoid doing any
permanent damage to his body, right? I doubt I'll be able to literally rip off bits of him with my bare hands. At least
now that I�fve experienced the Calling first hand, I can prepare for it better.

�gI see�c Well, I�fm going to rest for a bit.�h (Kelly)

I close my eyes and drift off into sleep. I�fm tired, hurting and hungry. In that order.
Chapter 88 - Make sure you bring your passport or you'll suffer at the
border - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lieutenant Stonebeard PoV <

I hate my job. What sort of post is this? I�fm just a glorified doorman to a door that never opens! I glance at the big
heavy Gates of Solitude. A 10 meter wide, 20 meter tall cage. Well, technically it�fs a portcullis gate, but it never
opens. Even the odd criminal sentenced to exile just gets pushed through a small door on the side of it, near the wall.

*GLUG GLUG*

I�fm drinking on the job. Of course I am. This job sucks! It�fs no �evital position�f! So what if this is the only
way in or out of the country? There�fs no moron crazy enough to march an army down that 30-something
kilometer tunnel beyond the gate. We�fd be able to hold them back with just the 300-strong garrison no matter how
many they bring! The only thing we do is keep an eye on it and make sure no individuals try and get past it.

*GLUG GLUG*

Honestly, I don�ft get the need for this gate. Oh sure it�fs all big and sturdy with thick steel beams, but it�fs so
damn heavy that I�fm not sure if it�fs ever meant to be opened!

�g�eSup boss? Musing the futility of working as a gate guard again?�h (Sergeant)

One of the boys calls out to me from below. I look over the edge of the roof I�fm on and call back to him.

�gHey Ripley! Just a little. Come on up and have a pint with me! That�fs a, whatcha call it? An order!�h
(Lieutenant Stonebeard)

Technically I shouldn�ft be on the roof of the barracks, but at least there�fs a nice breeze here. Probably coming
from that blasted gate off in the distance.

�gNot until you pay me back for those bottles of whiskey!�h (Sergeant)

�gBah, you�fre no fun.�h (Lieutenant)

Now that he mentions it, the keg I brought with me is getting a little light. Drinking by myself doesn�ft cheer me
up in the slightest, I don�ft even know why I bother.

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Ah, that�fs right. Because it�fs still delicious! I glance over my shoulder into the distance. Beyond this city of
Rowel, in the far end of this hollowed-out mountain, I can see a beam of light shining down from above. The only
place that gets actual light. Well, it�fs not real sunlight though. Just some fancy old glowing thing. But at least we
can grow crops down as much as we want there.

Mostly hops. We have plenty of moss, mushrooms and monsters to hunt for food in the Depths, so them wise Senate
boys decided to make as much ale as possible!

�gA toast! To the wonderful lads in that there capital place!�h (Lieutenant)

I raise my mug at that beam of light! But before I can resume emptying it-
�gHey boss?! We got a thing at the gate! One of them balls again!�h (Private)

Huh? Balls? Again? Oh, right! One of them!

�gI�fll be down there in a bit!�h (Lieutenant)

�gOkay boss!�h (Private)

I get up off my arse and walk back inside the barracks and head into my office. I quickly grab my helmet and sword
and start going down the steps. Sword on the waist, helmet on the head. Not the other way around. Other way
around hurts. A lot.

Technically I should be wearing my full plate, but that stuff is hard to move around in. As long as I got my helmet
with the Lieutenant insignia on it, it�fll be fine! Nobody ever comes round to inspect us or anything, so we don�ft
bother. Even if they did, this bunch here are mostly for decoration, so nobody would care.

I approach the would-be-gate. The boys are already making a fuss. We get one of these every month or so and it�fs
the only bit of excitement we get, so obviously they�fre going to be noisy. But for all 10 of them to gather,
something must be up!

�gOy, lads! Break it up! Stand at attention will ya?�h (Lieutenant)

�gYou heard the boss! Officer on deck!�h (Sergeant)

�gWhat bloody deck are you on about? This ain�ft a ship you daft bastard!�h (Lieutenant)

�gSorry boss.�h (Sergeant)

�gAnd stop calling me that! We�fll be having visitors so call me Lieutenant properly!�h (Lieutenant)

�gOh come on boss! That�fs so long!�h (Private 2)

�gAh, that�fs right isn�ft it? Well, nevermind. Boss is fine. So where�fs the stone?�h (Lieutenant)

�gGot it right here, boss.�h (Sergeant)

Ripley hands me the aforementioned stone. It�fs a round brown rock with a black handprint on it. That�fs the
right signal alright. Problem is, this thing�fs a bit unnatural. It�fs perfectly round and completely smooth. I know
they�fre supposed to roll it down the long incline and it would eventually hit the gate and grab someone�fs
attention, letting us know well ahead of time they�fre on their way.

*AAAaaargh*

�c

*aaaAAAAaargh*

�gUhm, boss. You heard that right?�h (Private 3)

�gYou mean that distant screaming echo that�fs coming down from the tunnel? That�fs not just me?�h
(Lieutenant)

�gNo, boss, I heard it too.�h (Sergeant)

The other men also confirm as much with some murmuring and nodding.

*RRAAAAAaaaa*

�gOkay, no. That�fs not supposed to happen. Ripley! Go get the Major from the garrison over here!�h
(Lieutenant)

�gOn my way boss!�h (Sergeant)

It�fs highly unlikely, but I�fm still a bloody guard so I�fm not taking any bloody chances.

�gThe rest of you, go get fully armed! I have a bad feeling about this!�h (Lieutenant)

�gSir!�h (Guards)

I have to actually put on that damn armor now�c I just hope I�fm wrong and overthinking this.

***

�gMajor Darkhand!�h (Lieutenant)

I greet my superior officer with a two-finger salute, palm facing downwards. It�fs been so long since I�fve done
it, I almost forgot what it was! Major Brand Darkhand glares at me with a scowl. I don�ft like these Darkhands,
they�fre way too serious! He�fs probably found 40 different faults with my appearance by now.

�gAt ease, Lieutenant. What�fs the situation.�h (Major)

*EEAAAARGH*

�gThat�fs the situation, Major! We received the signal that one of your clan was requesting entrance into the
country and shortly after that screaming began.�h (Lieutenant)

�gShow me the signal stone.�h (Major)

�gSergeant! Bring it over!�h (Lieutenant)

Ripley brings over the perfect stone ball and hands it to the Major. He looks it over and his stern face slowly grows
pale.

�gLieutenant! You�fre sure this rolled in from the outside?�h (Major)

�gYes sir, Major! Is there a problem?�h (Lieutenant)

�gYeah there�fs a problem! There�fs no way a stone this perfect exists naturally. Even us Darkhands can�ft
make one this smooth. Also, the print is supposed to be from the right hand. Not the left.�h (Major)

�gSo, it�fs not one of your kin?�h (Lieutenant)

I thought that�fs what this arrangement was for? Whenever one of these stones rolls in, it means a Darkhand
wishes to enter the city because they find some sort of gift or information that would help those Senate boys deal
with the stuff in the Depths. They send word ahead of time so we get a welcoming party ready for them.

The last one actually allowed inside was an old guy from several months ago, bringing with him a recipe for Blast
Powder. The lads in the capital weaponized it into those boom-sticks. Personally, I prefer not to be near them.
They�fre way too dangerous, I say!

�gI want to say it is, but I can�ft. This stone is a forgery. Us Darkhands are bound by many oaths, and one of
them is to never reveal this sort of thing to outsiders. We'd also never make a mistake like this! The implications are
bad all over!�h

*UUUUAAGH*

�gAnd those screams are even worse! How long have they been going on?!�h (Major)

�gSince about 30 minutes ago, Major.�h (Lieutenant)

�gThey may be trying to lure us out. Or it may be something�c worse. Either way, have your guards man their
posts! You there! Sergeant! Go back to the garrison and tell the men to mobilize and meet us here!�h (Major)

He�fs actually bringing in the garrison! Isn�ft this situation pretty bad? Don�ft tell me we�fre actually going to
get invaded!

***

�gMajor! I have a report to make!�h (Lieutenant)

�gWhat is it Lieutenant?�h (Major)

�gThe screaming stopped.�h (Lieutenant)

He glances at the big clock on the wall in the office. My office. That he kicked me out of! Well, I have to watch over
the gate and make sure nothing goes wrong, but still!

�gAlmost four hours. And there�fs been no movement?�h (Major)

�gNone that we can see.�h (Lieutenant)

Well, we can�ft really see much of anything beyond the gate.

�gI understand. Back to your post, stay alert and keep me posted.�h (Major)

***

*Clank Clank Clank*

�gUh, boss...�h (Sergeant)

�gYeah! I hear it! Go get the Major!�h (Lieutenant)

�gOn it, boss!�h (Sergeant)

He runs off into the barracks to update the Major It�fs been a few hours since the screaming stopped, we�fve been
on edge ever since and now there�fs a steady metal-on-stone noise that�fs getting closer.

�gForm ranks! On your guard! Our visitors are here!�h (Lieutenant)

The 100 or so garrison boys quickly form a three-layered shield wall around the gate.
*Clank Clank Clank*

It sounds like footsteps. Armored boots dragging themselves across the stone floor. They also sound�c heavy. And
slow.

*Clank Clank Clank*

Everyone�fs peering through the holes in the giant steel grate.

*Clank Clank Clank*

An armored figure slowly steps out of the darkness. It�fs a deep crimson red and seems to be dragging something
behind it.

*Clank Clank*

As more and more light shines on it, we make out several details. First, it�fs about as high as a dwarf. It�fs also
much wider and bulkier than any dwarven warrior I�fve ever seen. The armor itself seems to be made out of
numerous plates that fit together like a puzzle, although it�fs scratched up and somewhat stained with blood.

*Clank Clank*

It�fs dragging a huge lump of something behind it. It�fs huge! It looks like a pile of crystals - it�fs faintly blue
and almost transparent. It seems to be some sort of giant creature. A bird maybe? It�fs dragged along like a sack of
potatoes, completely lifeless.

*Clank Clank*

The armored warrior stops a few meters from the gate. His shoulders seem to be going up and down, he�fs
obviously exhausted. Perhaps the screaming was from a battle with that beast he�fs dragging along? We don�ft
know, but it�fs clearly suspicious.

�gThis is Lieutenant Stonebeard of the Rowel City Border Guard! Identify yourself!�h (Lieutenant)

I call out to the suspicious person on the other side of the gate. All the soldiers on this side are perfectly still and
quiet.

�gCorporal. Kelly Darkhand. Hardvark Garrison. Third. Engineering Corps. Requesting permission. To enter.�h
(Kelly)

The voice is hoarse. Slow. Like he�fs taking a breath with every word. We have no way of confirming that
information, though.

�gLieutenant! What�fs the situation?�h (Major)

�gMajor! We have a visitor requesting to enter! Claims to be one Kelly Darkhand, engineer out of Hardvark.�h
(Lieutenant)

Hardvark is one of the bigger dwarven colonies in the Ferseit kingdom. It�fs almost completely full of Darkhands,
so it's not impossible. The Major stands next to me and greets our visitor.

�gMy name is Major Brand Darkhand of the Rowel City Garrison! On what grounds do you wish to enter?�h
(Lieutenant)
�gI found. A titan.�h (Kelly)

What!? Just like that? I look at the Major and notice his eyes go wide for just a moment, but he immediately goes
back to his trademark scowl.

�gAnd is that thing behind you the so-called titan?�h (Major)

I can understand his scepticism. The last time a titan was found was over 150 years ago, and they never made it even
close to the gate before succumbing to something named the Calling. If I remember right, it�fs a horrible curse that
sends people mad with rage, causing them to slowly destroy themselves and everything around them.

Supposedly it also gives them impossible strength, capable of punching through rocks with their bare hands! Only a
titan�fs body is tough enough to sustain that much abuse. That�fs why the ancient ways no more than one dwarf
may escort a titan at a time - they�fd just murder each other otherwise!

�gOh yeah. He�fs still. Out of it. From the Calling.�h (Kelly)

�gThen the screaming we heard was your Calling, huh?�h (Major)

�gProbably. I don�ft remember. Most of it.�h (Kelly)

�gI see. Well I hope you won�ft mind waiting right there for us to confirm a few things.�h (Major)

�gOh no. None of that. Listen big guy. Either you open. This gate. Right now. And take me. To where. I need to
go. Or else. I will knock it down. And get there. Through all of you!�h (Kelly)

The oddly distorted voice actually threatened us! With something so bizarre! There�fs no way that stuck-up Major
will accept that!

�gAnd why are you in such a hurry, huh?�h (Major)

�gThe lore. Was wrong. The Calling. Gets much. Much worse. The closer. We get! There is! No time!�h (Kelly)

And now he�fs done it. There�fs no way that�fs actually a Darkhand, right? That lot would never claim
something like centures-old lore being incorrect! Just how many lives were sacrificed to obtain that knowledge!?

�gIs that so!? Then you and that corpse can just rot out there until your so called Calling claims you! As if I�fd
believe this nonsensical act!�h (Major)

See? The major�fs furious! You just insulted his whole life!

�gI see. I see. It�fs like that. Well, this guy. Won�ft wake up. For a while. So! Let�fs! Play!�h (Kelly)

*Clank Clank CLANKCLANKCLANKCLANK*

He lets go of the creature he was dragging and charges the gate! Is he nuts?

�g ------ [Fire Step]�h (Kelly)

*FWOOSH*

Wah! He just flew! With a roar of fire coming from his feet he jumped several meters into the air-

*DONNNN*
- before slamming face-first into the steel gate! What else was going to happen? Is he an idiot?

*CRRRRUNCH* *GRRROAN*

Oh I see. He�fs ripping it out. He�fs ripping a vertical steel beam that�fs as thick as his torso out of the grating.
He�fs bending that thing almost like it�fs a wet rag! He�fs already leaped and grabbed onto the next beam before
I realized it!

�gAt arms! Take down the intruder! Do not let him pass!�h (Major)

Really!? That guy is breaking that notoriously sturdy gate with his bare hands, and you want us to stop him? Are
you insane?

*CCRRRUNCH* *SCRRREEEE*

The metal keeps moaning under the strain! He keeps breaking the grate like it�fs nothing! Is it me or is he cutting a
straight line from end-to-end?

No, that�fs exactly what he�fs doing!

�gCrossbows! Mages! Fire at will!�h (Major)

Following the Major�fs orders, 30 sharpshooters and 10 mages from the garrison launch their bolts and spells at the
invader. Most of them hit directly, but are ignored like a gentle breeze! He jumps down on the outside of the grate
and�c retreats?

�gHold fire!�h (Major)

Maybe the attacks were more effective than-

*Clank Clank CLANKCLANKCLANKCLANK*

Nevermind, he just needed a run up.

�gYYYEAAARRGH!�h (Kelly)

*DONNNNN*

With a roar he smashes the now cut-in-half grate with all he has! It groans and bends and�c tips over.

*DOGAANN*

The half-a-gate falls over with a loud noise. We now officially have a giant bloody hole in our useless bloody gate.

*Tak tak tak taktaktak*

A mace appears in each of the invader�fs hands with some strange noise. He takes a few steps forward and
assumes a stance.

�gAlright! You want some of this?! Come at me, bro!�h (Kelly)

Chapter 89 - Seeing all the sights usually involves having a guide -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

�gAlright! You want some of this?! Come at me, bro!�h (Kelly)

I�fve been looking forward to this! It�fs payback time! Don�ft think you can push me around like-

�gWait, THAT Kelly?�h (Major Brand Darkhand)

�c

�gWhat do you mean. THAT Kelly?! How many. Kelly Darkhands. Do you know?�h (Kelly)

�gFour.�h (Brand)

�gOnly one. Of them is. Your sister though!�h (Kelly)

�gProve it!�h (Brand)

I�fll prove it, alright! Just don�ft complain to me later. You literally asked for this!

�gWhen you were five. You started eating. Your own boogers. Because Luka told you. That would give you. A
bigger-�h (Kelly)

�gOkay! Okay! Stand down everyone!�h (Brand)

The soldiers look at each other in puzzlement. Well, I guess it was a bit sudden. This whole thing.

�gI said stand down!�h (Brand)

These guys finally put away their weapons. I�fll do the same, I guess. Brand points at me with a slightly suspicious
look.

�gFirst, let me see your face!�h (Brand)

Ahhh! It�fs this damn armor again! They probably thought I was a guy using a fake name! I mean, I know the
signal stone was the wrong hand, but that couldn�ft be helped!

...

Crap, the faceplate is stuck! That blow to the head I took earlier must have dented it bad.

�gI said, let me see-�h (Brand)

�gI heard. Hold on.�h (Kelly)

I bend down forward and open Scrappy�fs back. After the familiar series of clicks and clacks, I step out of
Scrappy.

Brand�fs eyes go wide in shock when he sees me.

�gHey big guy. Long time. No see.�h (Kelly)

�gMedic! Get the medics here! Now!�h (Brand)

�gGood call.�h (Kelly)

I collapse on the spot.

***

�g ------- [Greater Heal]�h (Medic)

�gGaaaah!�h (Kelly)

�gWaah!�h (Medic)

I scream myself awake. Again. I should stop doing that. I see an old dwarf with a medic uniform, probably just
finished my treatment. All the pain I had just a while ago is gone! The only reason I was even standing earlier was
that Scrappy was holding me up. Well, that and liberal applications of healing potions and restorative injections,
courtesy of Nano.

�gHow are you feeling?�h (Brand)

I look around the room. Looks like I�fm in an Infirmary.

�gI�fll live. Where�fs Umph?�h (Kelly)

�gUmph? Wait, that giant bird thing is Umphrumphil the Stoneshaper?!�h (Brand)

I nod. My brother signals to the medic to leave the room. Once he does, I resume our conversation.

�gHow long was I out?�h (Kelly)

�gFew minutes at most. What�fs going on, Kelly?�h (Brand)

I sit up and look my older brother in the eye.

�gThe Calling, Brand. It�fs bad. Really bad. Worse than the Loremaster said it would be. We have to go to the
Sunstone right away. I don�ft think I can survive another night.�h (Kelly)

It may be my first time inside this massive hollowed out mountain, but I noticed it instantly. It�fs a crystal that
shines as bright as day embedded into a sky made of stone. You�fd notice it from anywhere in this country.

�gThe Loremaster said that the Figments would get stronger and more numerous, and that the rage would be more
intense the closer a titan gets to Khamis. So what part of it was wrong?�h (Brand)

�gOh no, that stuff happened. Except it wasn�ft just Figments of Khamis that attacked me. Once we got close
enough to the mountain, Figments of Draglael also started appearing.�h (Kelly)

Brand�fs eyes go wide and his jaw drops. That�fs right. It�fs not just Khamis the Shadowspinner. Draglael the
Steelmother who we assumed to be simply dormant is also a source of power for the Calling.

�gAnd if we don�ft want to have a third titan having a nightmare under this mountain, we need to get him to the
Sunstone!�h (Kelly)

*SCREEEEEE*

As if on cue, Umph wakes up with a screech. The sharp noise seems to snap Brand out of his stupor.

�gSistah of Steel! Are you alright!?�h (Umph)

I hear him screaming from outside.

�gThat�fs you, right? Come on, let�fs get out there before things escalate!�h (Brand)

I try to get out of the bed, but my legs still aren�ft moving properly and I stumble over.

�gOops!�h (Brand)

He catches me and lends me his shoulder.

�gCome on, Lil�f K! I got you!�h (Brand)

�gWhatever you say, big guy!�h (Kelly)

I limp outside while supported by my brother. I almost forgot he gave me that stupid nickname. I�fve not seen him
in over 20 years so I�fll let it slide. We open the door to the outside to see the dwarven garrison troops surrounding
Umph.

�gCalm down, Breddahs of Steel! I am not your enemy!�h (Umph)

�gStand down! That there is a bonafide titan! You lot wouldn�ft even injure it!�h (Brand)

�gDe Sistah of Steel! It is good to see you in good health!�h (Umph)

�gIf you were that worried, how about you call me by name for once?�h (Kelly)

�gDat is something I cannot do. A titan does not-�h (Umph)

�gDon�ft! Answer! Nevermind. Brand, help me into Scrappy.�h (Kelly)

�gWhat�fs a Scrappy?�h (Brand)

�gMy armor, it�fs a golem. I can walk on my own once I'm inside.�h (Kelly)

�gWow, you still have that weird naming sense�c�h (Brand)

He brings me over to where I left Scrappy. I carefully climb in and reactivate the spell.

�g ---- [Golem Link]�h (Kelly)

Scrappy springs to life and closes up behind me. We quickly climb aboard Umph and strap ourselves in. He starts
beating his wings and we slowly gain altitude.

�gUmph. We have plenty of time so don�ft go too fast. I want to catch up with my brother.�h (Kelly)

�gIf de Sistah of Steel says so.�h (Umph)

It�fll be fine. This much distance we can probably cover in an hour if we just fly casually. The Ecebis Mountains
don�ft go on forever. Our destination is only about 80-90 kilometers from where we are.

At least there's plenty of room here. Umph couldn�ft spread his wings inside that needlessly long tunnel. We had to
walk the entire way and couldn�ft make it through the whole thing in time. The Figments of Khamis were
especially nasty in that total blackness.

�gSo. The Stoneshaper. Is inside a shell of ice. And is currently flying.�h (Brand)

�gIt�fs your loss if you mind it.�h (Kelly)

�gThat right?�h (Brand)

�gOh yeah. Trust me on that one... By the way, Brand?�h (Kelly)

�gHmm?�h (Brand)

�gI�fm kicking your ass later for not letting me through the gate.�h (Kelly)

�gUh huh. And can I kick your ass back fo breaking down that same gate?�h (Brand)

�gYou wouldn�ft trust your own sister!�h (Kelly)

�gOh, really? And at what point did the fully armored, blood-stained stranger who messed up the signal stone even
attempted to talk things over?�h (Brand)

�gThat�c uh�c Calling side-effect. Probably.�h (Kelly)

�gMhm?�h (Brand)

He raises an eyebrow at me. Yeah, excuses are pointless. It was my bad for being hotheaded. As Ellie would say -
let's apologize properly.

�gSorry for breaking your precious gate, big guy.�h (Kelly)

�gIt�fs okay. It probably wouldn�ft open after being shut for so long, so I�fm kind of glad you broke it. Still, I
never suspected you�fd mess up that signal stone. You were always better at that lore stuff than me.�h (Brand)

�gWell, I didn�ft really have much of a choice, did I?�h (Kelly)

I wave Scrappy�fs right hand at him.

�g... Sorry. I forgot since it moves so well with that armor on.�h (Brand)

�gIt�fs okay. I�fm over it.�h (Kelly)

Even though Nano pretends he isn�ft a person.

�gSo how did you lose that right arm of yours?�h (Brand)

�g...I couldn't be inside Scrappy when the rage hits, otherwise who knows how much damage I�fd do. So I step
out of it every night so that the uncontrollable punching and kicking don't actually demolish anything. The first and
second nights weren�ft that bad. But on the third, a hydra found me while the Calling's after-effects were in full
swing.�h (Kelly)

A hydra - a huge four headed snake that almost instantly heals from any injury. Even a severed head. I think the
Adventurer's Guild gave it Rank A-2. As in, it's twice as strong as a regular Rank A.

�gThe only hydra around these parts is the King Hydra that was reported to be roaming around the highlands in
recent years. Don't tell me it was that one!�h (Brand)

�gCould have been, I have no idea. By the time I snapped out of my rage, I had already beaten it to a pulp and had
ripped off about two dozen heads. At least, that�fs how many were strewn around me.�h (Kelly)

I vaguely remember it managing to bite my right arm clean off. My arm was gone almost all the way up to my
shoulder just like that. The shock and pain snapped me out of the constant flow of R???????I?????P????? ???????
A??????N??????D?? ????T?E??????A??????R??????? just long enough to apply some of Nano's medicine.
Otherwise I'd have died from blood loss.

�gIn any case, the result of that little kerfuffle was that I'm no longer able to count to ten.�h (Kelly)

�gYou seem�c oddly chipper about this.�h (Brand)

�gYeah well. I know someone who can probably fix it.�h (Kelly)

�gThere were people like that on the surface, huh?�h (Brand)

Nano isn�ft a person though. Heh. Or so he likes to say.

�gSpeaking of which, how�fd you get in here?�h (Kelly)

There�fs hardly any Darkhands born inside Ecebis. We have to bring in something of value to the country if we
wish to be admitted into it.

�gBrought a healing salve recipe that could be made using lichen and mushrooms growing in Ecebis. Elven stuff
out of the City State Alliance. It�fs slower than healing potions, but as effective as magic if you give it enough
time. That was�c fifteen years ago, I think?�h (Brand)

�gI see. That sounds like you. Them Senate geezers must�fve loved it.�h (Kelly)

�gSure they did. Still, it doesn�ft compare to bringing an actual titan. Circumstances aside, you must be proud for
making it into Ecebis after all this time!�h (Brand)

He gives a bright smile. Right, Brand is one of those people. The type that insist on coming here and
�eserving their country�f while abandoning the outside world.

�gWasn't by choice. I�fm not like you, big guy. I don't belong in here. My home is out there. With a pair of
terrifyingly crazy girls, their two adorable daughters and an invisible peeper with a penchant for explosions.�h
(Kelly)

Even if I live through all this, going back will be hard. Darkhands get in, they don�ft get out. That�fs the rule.
Nobody gets out. Wouldn�ft want the world to learn titans are still around and sleeping not-so-peacefully under a
mountain.

�gSounds like a fun bunch. Should�fve bro- no. Nevermind.�h (Brand)

�gYeah.�h (Kelly)
The lore is crystal clear. There was no way to bring them along. If I did, I would be putting them in danger. If my
possessed self knew they were nearby, I would definitely hunt them down. And if they tried to bear it in my stead,
they would never recover.

But, I cannot ignore my purpose, no matter how much I wish for it. It is something stronger than an instinct, like
someone else forcing their will on me. Not just me, but every member of my bloodline. When any of us focuses
their senses to the utmost, we start hearing a voice with no beginning and no end.

Through the Calling, nightmares will be created.

Through nightmares, the Shadowspinner will suffer.
Through suffering, the Calling will spread.
Through the Calling, the madness will be known.
Through madness, the titans will succumb.
Through the titans, chaos will take hold.
Through chaos, the Steelmother will rise.
Through the Steelmother, the titans will be saved.
Through the titans, light will be created.
Through light, darkness will know defeat.
Through darkness, vengeance will fester.
Through vengeance, the Steelmother will fall.
Through her fall, the madness will return.
Through the madness, the Darkhand will be chained.
Through the Darkhand, knowledge will be gathered.
Through knowledge, the titans will be protected.
Through the titans, the Steelmother will awaken.
Through the Steelmother, the world will know hope.
Through hope, nightmares will become dreams.
Through dreams, the Shadowspinner will know peace.
Through peace, the Calling will collapse.
Through the collapse, the Darkhand will attain freedom.
Through freedom, happiness will spread.
Through happiness, the Lightbinder will arrive.
Through the Lightbinder, love will take hold.
Through love, jealousy will settle.
Through jealousy, malice will lash out.
Through malice, the Calling will be reborn.

We are all part of some grand cycle. I wonder if the titans actually realize this sort of thing is going on? We literally
can't talk about it though. Since we are [Chained].

However, this thing only mentions three of the nine titans. I doubt the Stoneshaper, Windwalker, Woodcarver,
Waterbearer, Firebreather and Soulforger are just doing whatever they please this whole time! There might be
hundreds of these cycles for all I know!

Thus, for over 1200 years we have been compelled to wake the Steelmother. Out of the 9 recorded attempts, all have
failed. Each failure had cost the life of the Darkhand escort and forced the titan to abandon their physical form,
unable to re-emerge for centuries.

But, each failure also brought new knowledge and truths into light. This 10th attempt was no different. Knowing that
the Calling had control of the Steelmother�fs Figments�c it is dire news.
�gSo where did you find this guy anyway?�h (Brand)

Ah, that�fs right. There was an exception to that story.

�gInside a dragon.�h (Kelly)

Until recently, nothing was known about the third attempt, which was some 850-ish years ago. Other than it had
failed, of course.

�gUh-huh. Okay. Do I want to know the details?�h (Brand)

Turns out that even though titans do not need to sleep, some still choose do it.

�gDo you want a giant headache?�h (Kelly)

On the day before he was to depart for the Ecebis mountain range, a certain titan decided to take a nap.

�gNot really.�h (Brand)

He was then swallowed whole by a passing Elder Dragon for no discernible reason.

�gThen no, you don�ft.�h (Kelly)

I did a thing and something vaguely resembling a plot appeared. That was weird~
Chapter 90 - Be on the lookout for festivals when visiting abroad.
They're great fun! - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

I gaze up at Enuri�fs Sunstone. If I didn�ft know any better I�fd think the actual sun was glued to the roof of this
incomprehensibly huge cavern. The constant light is throwing my sleeping schedule off, though. If it wasn�ft for
all the clocks around here, I�fd have no idea it�fs already been two days since we got here.

I look around the only actual farm in Ecebis. It looked a lot tinier from far away, but now that I�fm actually here,
this place is huge! The sea of green spreads out in every direction for hundreds of meters. I don�ft understand why
most of it is hops, but I�fm not complaining! The local ale�fs pretty good, better than I was expecting.

I spot Umph staring blankly into the distance. He noticed my approach and turns to face me with grand, slow
movements.

�gGreetings Sistah of Steel. I see you have recovered.�h (Umph)

�gWhat�fs left of me, anyway. You seem to be doing fine too.�h (Kelly)

�gYes, I am once again of sound mind, Sistah of Steel. De remnant of de Shiny One is as strong as I remember.�h
(Umph)

He looks up at the fake sun. It�fs hard to tell what sort of face he�fs making since it�fs an eagle's head, but I get
the impression he�fs being nostalgic.

�gSo you�fve seen it before?�h (Kelly)

�gYes. It was me who made de shape, although it was de Shiny One who gave it de powah.�h (Umph)

I see, so it really is titan-made. Most of this world�fs bizarre scenery is like that. That famous backwards-flowing
waterfall to the east, for example. Come to think of it, maybe Runetap was made by a titan?

Wow, that stupid thought just made a whole lot of sense right now.

�gSo�c what happens now? You gonna wake up Draglael or what?�h (Kelly)

I point at the 50-meter tall metal statue that�fs several meters from Umph. That�fs supposedly Draglael�fs
dormant body. Although, if you ignore the color and the size and the whole actually-a-titan thing, it just looks like a
regular dwarven woman. The face is nothing special, and she�fs just casually standing there with a regular
everyday dress you�fd expect to see on a villager, not on a mighty immortal being.

�gYes. I will try. But I have no knowledge of what may happen if de Calling should interfere.�h (Umph)

�gInterfere? But we�fre under the Sunstone, right?! The Calling can�ft reach you here.�h (Kelly)

That was the whole point of bringing him here. Since the fake sunlight around us is just as strong as the real thing,
it�fs shielding him from the Calling. Well, it was an unconfirmed theory, but it worked out in the end.

�gIt is true dat de Figments of de Dark One cannot last under dis light. But de Figments of de Metal One are
different.�h (Umph)
�gOh. Right. Those things. They�fll pop out of the ground and start trying to stop you whenever you begin�c
whatever it is you�fre going to do?�h (Kelly)

�gIt is likely. De Calling will surely fight back.�h (Umph)

I drop my shoulders and let out a sigh. It never ends with these bloody titans! So that�fs why the message Brand
delivered said to come here fully armed. Well, truth be told, I�fm always wearing Scrappy lately. Somehow�c it
makes the missing arm easier to bear.

�gSo. How long will the wake up call take?�h (Kelly)

�gThree, maybe four days.�h (Umph)

�gGuh! You know I�fm not gonna be able to keep going that long! Just because you�fre a bloody titan doesn�ft
mean the rest of us-�h (Kelly)

�gCalm down Sistah of Steel. Dis is just a trial. I shall only test de strength of de Calling�fs grip. It will not last
more den an hour.�h (Umph)

�g... Alright. Let�fs get this over with.�h (Kelly)

*Tak tak tak tak taktaktak*

I bring out the maces once again. I wonder why I even bother folding them in these days�c Hmm? Why did I even
use this complicated method to store them inside my armor in the first place? Isn�ft it super impractical? I
remember doing this since Scrappy the Third, but why? That�fs odd, I�fm sure there was something-

*Hummmmmmmmm*

Huh? What�fs this low hum coming from the ground? Ack! This guy started without me! He�fs facing the
Steelmother statue and being perfectly still!

*RRRUMBLE*

The ground shakes a little. A figure slowly rises from the soil a few meters away. It�fs steadily coming out - a
Figment of Draglael. It�fs a metal full plate armor holding a shield and spear. You�fd almost think it was a
dwarven soldier, but there�fs nobody inside that shell! It�fs like fighting another Scrappy!

Wasting no time, I charge at it. This one seems to be made out of iron, so he�fs much lighter and softer compared
to my own armor!

*CLANK*

I ram into its shield at full sprint, knocking it over. Once these things fall on their backs, they take forever to get
back up. I proceed to pummel it with both maces. It takes two hits to every limb and five more to the torso before it
stops moving completely. Having finished with it, I look around.

�gUmph... Umph! Damn it wake up!�h (Kelly)

*SMACK*

I hit him across the talon so he gets my attention.

�gEck! What? What is it Sistah of- Oh.�h (Umph)

�gDon�ft �eoh�f me! Get me out of here you birdbrain!�h (Kelly)

�gRight! Hang on Sistah of Steel!�h (Umph)

He grabs me with his talons and immediately lifts off. We�fre out of reach of the literal army of armor down there.
Dozens of Figments keep appearing by the second! They completely surrounded us in an instant! There�fs
absolutely no way I can handle this on my own! I only faced 10 of these guys at most on the way here! I'm glad
they're slower than monsters, otherwise we wouldn't have been able to escape so easily!

Okay! I�fve calmed down a bit, so let�fs look over these guys. There�fs too many to count. Looks to be about a
few hundred. Most of them are made out of Copper or Bronze. A good number are made out of what looks like iron
or steel and several made out of Orichalcum or Adamantite. While stronger Figments of Khamis are simply bigger
monsters, the stronger Figments of Draglael are made out of tougher metals.

�gUmph! What do we do!? We can�ft just leave them there?�h (Kelly)

�gFigments are short-lived, Sistah of Steel. Dey will disappear before an hour passes.�h (Umph)

I see... I never had the luxury to wait around during their night raids.

�gBut dis number is unexpected.�h (Umph)

�gThat's an understatement. There has to be a way though...�h (Kelly)

Think Kelly! There has to be a way! Darkhands are good at knowledge-gathering, right? So let's use what I know!

First of all, trying to fight them all off on my own is pointless. Both the number and time span are bad. They'll
shatter Umph into tiny pieces without question. Maybe I could try and bring in one of the legions? But that rage-
inducing smoke will... Will not appear!

I see! How didn't I notice it before!? The source of that smog isn't the Calling! It's the Figments of Khamis! All the
Calling is doing is simply borrowing the afflicted titans' powers! Thinking about it now, the only thing these metal
ones left behind is a pile of dust!

�gI have an idea, Umph! Set me down at the edge of the fields, I�fll have to go appeal to the Senate.�h (Kelly)

Shouldn�ft take much persuading. All dwarves revere the Steelmother, so they should be willing to help. The thing
is that bringing a legion out here will leave an entrances to the Depths unguarded. If the monsters down there decide
they want to expand upward at the wrong time, it�fll turn into a tragedy. And those holes in the ground are too
large to fill with just dwarven stubbornness.

Oh!? But we happen to have a Stoneshaper right here, don�ft we? Just have to make sure it�fs daytime outside
before we attempt any hole-sealing. I�fm really not willing to go through another Calling. Especially not when so
many of my people are within running distance.

I really hope the clocks down here are correct.

***

It took two weeks and then some, but it�fs finally time. As planned, Umph sealed off the Depths with his titan
magic. Those buggers down there will eventually dig through, but it should buy us a month, maybe two.

Those geezers at the Senate were obviously elated. The spiders of the Depths are terrifying, but they�fre the only
real danger to this country. All dwarves are a dutiful kind, so there�fs hardly any crime. Criminals get exiled
immediately anyway. It�fs a harsh punishment and a huge deterrent to those who were born here.

So with the 8 entrances to the Depths sealed off for the time being, we suddenly ended up with 8 dwarven legions of
3,000 soldiers each with nothing to do. So we had them participate in our little Awakening.

About half of them, which is to say 12,000 troops, consist of heavy infantry clad in full-plate armor and protected by
greatshields. It�fs a fearsome sight. Watching them practice their shield wall formations gives off the image of a
steel curtain moving across the ground. Per my recommendation, they�fre armed with warhammers, maces, flails
and all sorts of other blunt weapons which excel at denting armor.

4,000 of the gathered legionnaires are engineers like myself. Although most have the ability to control golems, they
won�ft be fighting much. Their job is logistics. The battle will go on for days and our enemy will literally be
popping out from the ground. Therefore, the engineering corps will be using 10-meter tall stone golems to ferry the
injured and exhausted soldiers away from the battlefield, while bringing back those who have recovered enough to
rejoin the fight.

4,000 more are Marksmen, armed with crossbows. Although normal bolts are useless, I�fve brought a very
convenient thing with me - [Impact Pellets]. Admittedly, I only had 15 left when I arrived, but producing them is
simple and cheap. In reality, they�fre small Magic Stones imbued with an [Impact] spell.

That nifty little spell is something only the looney mages of Ferseit can come up with. It�fs actually fairly recent,
not even a decade old. Also, it�fs only effective on the mage�fs own lingering spells. As a result, its use hasn�ft
spread. It�fs a questionable method at best and it takes someone of Red�fs skill at mana manipulation to turn it
into a weapon. Seeing her use what I thought to be a junk-tier spell to decimate the undead back then was a flash of
inspiration.

I had her teach me the spell. It's easy to learn, but hard to master. That unfocused light burst I used during the
Callings is the best I�fm capable of. But you just need to be able to invoke the spell to put it into a Magic Stone.
And since the mana required to do it so tiny, you can use the smallest Magic Stones available, which are cheaper
than dirt.

Putting it into a Magic Stone was where it got really interesting. Doing that with a spell means it becomes 'neutral'
and can no longer be controlled. In this case, it also meant [Impact] would be made effective against any and all
forms of magic! Even ancient, dragon-sealing ones! It�fs a tiny little thing that�fs sure to change the world!

Now truthfully, making enough of those things to arm 4,000 people is ludicrous. Unless you happen to have 3,000
mages and 4,000 engineers willing to lend a hand. I had to steadily pass on the knowledge of [Impact] to them over
the course of many days, but it was worth it. In the end we were able to arm each Marksman with 50 [Impact
Pellet]-tipped crossbow bolts.

They already know not to aim it near allies. Various enchantments, golems and of course Scrappy could suffer if
they�fre careless. Their mission is to seek out the tougher Figments like Adamantite or Orichalcum and put them
down. It takes two or three hits to completely drain their mana, but they turn into dust without having to actually hit
them even once!

As for the 3,000 mages, they�fll be focusing on crowd control. Using Earth Magic to knock down the enemy. Fire
or Lightning is pretty much useless against these things, so they won�ft get a chance run wild. They�fre all
military though, they�fll do their job without complaints. Unlike mercenaries or adventurers that want to
incessantly show off.

And finally are 2,000 priests of Enuri serving as medics. Since the only source of their faith down here is the
Sunstone, we�fll be fighting on their holy ground. So they�fre super motivated. Also, I notice there�fs quite a
few women among the clergy. About a two-to-one split in favor of the males. There aren�ft any female clergy
members on the surface, though. Admittedly I�fve never left Ferseit. It might just be a cultural thing.

To help things along, those Senators even authorized that everyone be given two healing salves, while officers
receive an additional healing potion. Just having these on hand is a big boost to morale. Those salves are the same
stuff that Brand brought back from the City States Alliance, so they're prefect for recovering outside the field.

Speaking of Brand, he�fs apparently the overall commander-in-chief. I�fm told it�fs because our clan is known
for specializing in anything titan-related, and he happens to be the highest ranked (and only) Darkhand officer. So he
got the job shoved onto him. He�fll be overlooking the battlefield on a gryphon, using a magic tool to amplify the
power of his voice so it reaches the soldiers below.

Ah yes, gryphons! Every dwarf yearns to own one of those magnificent beasts! At least those on the surface, it�fs
impossible to find an egg down here. That particular gryphon is Brand�fs personal mount, he said he brought it
with him when he was admitted into the country. His is a Falcon Gryphon with brown plumage, one of the more
common breeds.

As for me�c since I'm the one who brought the titan to this place, I am literally the last line of defense. None of the
other dwarves can even come close to matching Scrappy, after all.

When asked for a spar recently, I obliged. I won. Several times. It escalated. At one point I was fighting 20 heavy
infantrymen at once! Good bunch of lads. Had a great time sharing stories over a pint or two. Or six. The ale here
may not be as strong as the werewolf-made stuff I brought, but the delicious taste does grow on you!

�gWell then, shall we get started?�h (Kelly)

�gLet�fs. Give the word whenever you�fre ready, Umph! Come on, Shull! Off we go!�h (Brand)

Brand took off on his gryphon. Wait, he named it Shull? Wasn�ft that the name of that chicken he thought of as a
pet? The one Mom eventually made into dinner?! And he says my naming sense is bad!

Ah, Umph is getting ready. He should be giving the signal any-

*SCREEEEEEEE*

Ow. My ears. I really should not have stood right next to him. Over 20,000 dwarves gathered here turn their eyes
towards the transparent eagle-like figure.

�gBreddahs and Sistahs of Steel!�h (Umph)

Ohhh, now that�fs a good voice he�fs putting out! It�fs even echoing slightly! Ow! My ears! I can�ft plug them
because Scrappy is in the way!

�gAll of you have gathered here to fight for de sake of my fellow titans! For dis, I am eternally grateful!�h
(Umph)

He spreads his wings wide as he utters that last sentence.

*THUMP THUMP THUMP*

*HUUAAAAAAH*

The gathered legionnaires take the cue and beat their weapons against their shields three times before raising their
voices in cheer! A true salute in dwarven fashion! I'm glad I made Umph practice! This sort of thing is important for
morale! Also it�fs seriously cool!
Wait, why is he looking down at me? It�fs not over yet!

�gGo on then! Finish it the bloody speech!�h (Kelly)

He lightly nods his head before facing the crowd again.

�gNow! I wasn�ft really listening to de second part of de speech! But I�fm pretty sure it involved de fighting and
de drinking...�h (Umph)

You what? What is this bloody birdbrain saying now!? That�fs going to have the opposite effect!

�gSo�c May you fight a lot and drink a lot! And den, uh, FIGHT SOME MORE!�h (Umph)

Why did that come out!? We�fre not all violently drunken meat-heads like Red says we are!

*THUMP THUMP THUMP*

*HUUAAAAAAAAAAH*

�c

Let it go, Kelly. You have things to do.

So my slacking off finally caught up with me. Now I have to actually do my job during work hours instead of
writing this fic :(
Chapter 91 - Most festivals end with fireworks. You'll regret it if you
miss them! - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> First Day - Harhal Darkhand PoV <

Now that was a rousing speech! As expected of a titan! Oh! Now he�fs standing face-to-face with the statue of
Draglael. Or is it, the actual Draglael? Ah, doesn�ft matter!

It�fs just a shame they had to flatten all the crops in the area. I understand though, those tall plants would only
limit our vision. Ahhh, but the Senate will probably have to ration the ale out until the next harvest�c Wait, now
isn�ft the time for that!

I tighten the grip on my warhammer. It�fs not a weapon I�fm used to, but I�fm grateful for it. Since every
Darkhand in Ecebis demanded to be included in this little scuffle, those Senate boys let us arm ourselves with
leftover weapons and armor reserved for the Legion.

Leftovers they called them! This thing is leagues beyond the old warhammer I used back in the day. It�fs well
balanced and the business end is plated with Adamantite! I�fm looking forward to crushing a few things. No,
make that many things!

*HUMMMMMMM*

*RRRUMBLE*

A low, steady hum comes out of the very ground, followed by the ground shaking and rumbling. This is the
Awakening ceremony they were talking about, huh?

*Clang clang*

Almost immediately I hear sounds of metal-on-metal. Looks like the fight�fs started nearby, but it�fs quiet where
I�fm standing.

�gCompany left! We have targets coming! Watch your footing and take ten-pillar formations!�h (Sergeant)

A sergeant person starts ordering the legion around. Like some sort of dance recital, they group up in a circular
formation - 6 shield bearers form a circle around two marksmen, one medic and one mage. There�fs at least 7 or 8
of these groups around me.

Well, most of us Darkhands aren�ft legionnaires so we don�ft know all those tactics and formations. Best we can
do is fill in the gaps between them and stay out of each other�fs way!

*RRRRRUMBBBLE*

The grounds shakes even more violently and I finally see my first Figment. It rises from beneath the earth's surface
as if walking out from under a lake! It�fs a dwarf-shaped suit of armor that moves on its own. Looks to be made of
bronze and is using a spear and shield.

�gHEEYAH!�h (Harhal)

I swing my shiny new warhammer sideways from the right. The Figment in front of me raises a shield and blocks it
with a heavy thud. Looks like I left a heavy dent in it, but it�fs not enough. It counter-attacks with a spear, but I
easily avoid it by sidestepping to the left with a spin. I use the momentum to swing the warhammer with additional
force, slamming it into the Figment�fs exposed shoulder.

There�fs a satisfying cracking sound as it crumples like paper and the arm completely falls off. Now that it�fs
disarmed, it has no choice but to swing its shield at me.

Heh, disarmed.

I block the shield using the hammer�fs haft. It�fs a heavy blow that knocks me back a few steps. Suddenly,
there�fs a sharp pain in the back of my left leg!

�gRRGH!�h (Harhal)

I let out a pained groan, then almost reflexively spin around on my uninjured leg, swinging the warhammer down
onto the ground! It hits a Figment that hasn�ft fully risen from the dirt! I instinctively aimed for the head, crushing
the helmet into its body and collapsing it into the torso. Looks like it slashed at my leg with its sword as it was
emerging from the ground - only the waist was sticking out of it the soil.

However, I look over my shoulder to see the first Fragment already coming in for another attack. I ignore the pain in
my leg and do a half-turn while swinging the warhammer sideways again. This time I catch it in the waist and it
folds over in two, crumbling to bits as it falls down. The second Figment is still trying to get itself out of the ground,
so I finish it off with another overhead swing. It also crumbles to nothing.

This is bad, we barely started and I�fm already injured and bleeding quite a bit. I should�fve put on the plate
armor like my son said. I take out an old healing potion and chug it. It tastes like disappointment with a hint of
strawberries. It's effective though, the pain is soothed and the gash in my leg is closing up. Another pair of Figments
appear nearby while I�fm still recovering.

Right, that�fs a good enough warm up! Let�fs have at those bastards!

> Second Day - Sergeant Emma Darkhand PoV <

�gCopperhead! Breakbolt! We got incoming on the right!�h (Emma)

�gOn it Sarge!�h (Copperhead)

Corporal Copperhead guides SG-114 to attack the incoming group of Figments. The 10-meter tall dwarf-shaped pile
of stone stomps in the middle of them, flattening 3 out of the 5. Lieutenant Breakbolt blocks the remaining two with
his great-shield and mace.

The golems are powerful, but clumsy. They�fre meant to tackle soft targets their own size rather than these small
metal things. Iron-class and tougher Figments can easily cause damage to the legs, either by hitting them or getting
stepped on.

Out of the 800 or so Soldier Golems (or SGs for short) we brought along, about a quarter are already out of
commission. And that's just from escort duty with minimal fighting! They wouldn't last long against these endless
numbersThe rest of the Engineering Corps are working desperately to get even a few of them up and running.

I return my focus to my own troubles. The TG-114 I�fm standing on seems to be almost full and there�fs 10 more
injured and tired dwarves out here that need to board it.

�gAbandon weapons and shields! We�fre over capacity!�h (Emma)

�gYes, Sergeant!�h (Legionnaires)

*CLANK CLANK CLANK*

The 50 or so passengers toss any disposable gear they had out of the golem. With the extra room and weight
allowance, we�fre just able enough to squeeze everyone into the 15-meter long tube-shaped Transport Golem. The
hollow shell is packed full of dwarves, threatening to overflow through the small windows on the sides.

�gAlrigh! Hang tight, this won�ft be comfortable! Come on TG-114, up you go!�h (Emma)

I command the golem to stand up. Six pairs of centipede-like legs lift its elongated body as it rises up a few meters
off the ground.

�gBreakbolt! Appreciate the assist!�h (Emma)

�gAnytime, Darkhand!�h (Breakbolt)

Breakbolt shouts back before plunging his squad against another group of Figments.

�gCopperhead, take point!�h (Emma)

�gGot it Sarge!�h (Copperhead)

The corporal brings SG-114 around and slowly breaks into a full sprint. He�fs strapped in place inside the
golem�fs head, allowing him to focus entirely on his [Golem Link]. TG-114 follows him immediately after.
We�fre headed back to the field hospital set up well away from the battlefield. It should take about 10 minutes to
get there.

SG-114 goes down the 'highway' of trampled ground that has formed through the battlefield. We pass by a dozen or
so other Engineering Corps units on our way out.

At some point those Figments started amassing further and further away from the battle, forming ranks and battle
lines of their own. In return, there seem to be less of them appearing in the middle of our formations.

I guess they learned that they�fre sitting ducks with half their bodies buried in the ground and have started to give
up on that �esurprise�f attack strategy. The fact that Figments can learn is worrying. Hmm, now that I think about
it, if they're truly endless then there's no reason for the 'surprise' attacks to slow down right? Could there be a limit to
how many can be made at once?

That could work in our favor, actually! I need to talk this over with the Major! It�fs almost time for his check-in at
the forward command base, so I should be able to catch him!

> Third Day - Krom Darkhand PoV <

I double check my quiver - 23 of those special arrows left. I�fll need to make a re-supply run soon.

�gKrom! That one�fs yours!�h (Harhal)

I turn my attention to where dad�fs pointing at with his warhammer. Yep, that dark-gray color and
weighty footsteps definitely belong to an Adamantite Figment. I nock two arrows onto my shortbow and let them
fly.

One gets blocked by its shield while the other lands near the Figment�fs feet. The glass-like arrowheads shatter,
causing the living suit of armor to shudder and shake. The shield disappears into dust, but the rest of it is still
standing. I fire a third arrow right into its forehead, making the whole Figment crumble.
�gNice shot m�fboy!�h (Harhal)

�gAye, he�fs a lot better than you are!�h (Dougan)

�gShut it Dougan! Even I�fd hit these things from that vantage point!�h (Harhal)

Ah there they go again. Dad and uncle Dougan never did get along. I guess since the area is safe for the moment
they can relax a little. Also this isn�ft a �evantage point�f it�fs a titan you know! That�fs disrespectful! Ah,
but I�fm standing on its feathery head, so maybe I�fm no better? Well he doesn�ft seem to mind, what with this
constant low hum and standing perfectly still.

Thing is, from up here I can see all angles those Figments can approach from. It lets the three of us cover for Kelly
while she�fs off resting. I can easily spot approaching groups of enemies and take out the tough ones. Then dad and
uncle can disable the rest.

Brand�fs new strategy is certainly amazing - knock them over and seal their movements, but don�ft finish them. It
seems there�fs a limit to how many of these things the Calling can bring out, so if we just do that then the number
of enemies that can fight gets reduced.

That�fs easier said than done though. It�fs a fine line between �ecrippled�f and �edust�f with these things.
Also they seem to disappear on their own after about an hour, but the overall number of active enemies on the field
was still cut down by half!

�gHarhal, Dougan, Krom! How�fs the situation!�h (Brand)

Brand swings by on his gryphon. Kelly is with him, holding a dinner-plate sized Magic Stone with her one arm.

�gWe�fre fine up here, Major. Your plan was super effective.�h (Krom)

�gNot mine, thank Emma from the Engineering Corps for the idea.�h (Brand)

The gryphon lands on the ground near the titan�fs feet. Kelly climbs off and silently moves to where she left her
armor. A rather impressive creation, to say the least. She said she got the idea from trying to make those soldier
golems the legions use into a smaller, tougher form. I certainly can�ft argue with the results.

�gHere, Kelly let me-�h (Dougan)

�gPiss off, Dougan! I can do it myself!�h (Kelly)

She brushes off Dougan and proceeds to change out her armor�fs Magic Stone. It�fs impressive she can do all
that with just the one arm, it looks like finicky work. She then climbs inside the thing and starts it up with a [Golem
Link]. The armor plates on the back unfold to seal her inside.

�gDougan, Harhal, I got the ground, so go make yourselves useful elsewhere! Krom! I�fm gonna need you to
keep an eye out for me for a while longer!�h (Kelly)

�gCan�ft go on for too long, only have 20 arrows left!�h (Krom)

�gOver here lad!�h (Brand)

Brand flies close by on his gryphon and drops a quiver of 100 special arrows for me. I gingerly catch them and wave
back at him.

�gThanks Major! Alright Kelly, I�fll be watching your back for as long as I�fm able!�h (Krom)
�gAppreciate it!�h (Kelly)

I�fm glad they made these specially for me. The rapid-fire shortbow is much more useful in this situation than
crossbows, but I�fm one of the few people down here that is any good at it. I used to be a huntsman before, so
it�fs a good thing we-

*UUUUOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO*

�gBrand!�h (Kelly)

�gI hear it!�h (Brand)

Brand flies up rapidly and activates the magic tool on his collar.

�gTo all legions! Situation is changing, details unknown! Be on your guard and prepare for ambush!�h (Brand)

> Kelly PoV <

Brand�fs warning goes out across the battlefield. The constant hum changed. It became deeper and louder, more
like a groan. I�fm not sure what�fs going on. Either Umph�fs wrapping things up or things are about to get
worse.

�gKelly! All the Figments are disappearing! Every last one of them!�h (Krom)

Krom shouts down at me from Umph�fs head. That�fs good. Right? Hah, no way. Something terrible�fs about to
happen, I just know it!

�gDo not let your guards down! The Awakening is still not over!�h (Brand)

Brand�fs orders echo across the now silent battlefield. There are still golems ferrying injured dwarves all over the
place, but the only thing heard is Umph�fs ritual noises.

*RRRRRUMBLE*

The ground shakes more violently than it has until now.

*CRRRRRRACK* *BANG*

What�fs that noise? It sounded like-

�gAttention! The ground is splitting open to the north of the Sunstone! It�fs forming what appears to be a new
entrance to the Depths! Third, Fourth and Fifth legions - form ranks and establish a perimeter around the titan! Sixth
Legion - prepare to move out and repel any invasion! All other legions - maintain current positions and await further
orders!�h (Brand)

Glad to see Brand is on point. Less than glad that my terrible hunch was equally on point.

�gKelly! Over there! You wanna see this!�h (Krom)

Krom�fs pointing to the other side of Umph. I run around him and feel the blood drain from my face.

In the distance, well beyond where the Sunstone is shining down, is a huge chasm that wasn't there a while ago.
What comes out of it isn�ft a horde of monsters as expected though. It�fs just one monster.
Just. One. Giant. Spider.

Eight long, slender legs pull up an ominous-looking spider�fs body from the hole. Just the body seems to almost
rival that Elder Dragon. With the legs factored in, it�fs a few times larger than that!

It slowly but surely emerges out of the Depths, but instead of heading for us or any cities, it turns away and starts
walking towards the cavern wall further to the north. Brand flies back to us on his gryphon while we�fre staring in
mute horror at that walking calamity.

�gKelly! What�fs going on!?�h (Brand)

�gNo idea, but this is no coincidence. It�fs trying to do something. I have no plans of letting it try though! Can
that gryphon carry Scrappy?�h (Kelly)

�gNot sure. Shull, try lifting her!�h (Brand)

�gKraaw.�h (Shull)

Shull replies with a squawk-like noise and grabs scrappy by the shoulders using his talons. Slowly but surely he�fs
gaining altitude.

�gKraaa! Kraa kraaa!�h (Shull)

�gOkay, he says he�fs got you! What now?�h (Brand)

�gBring me closer to that thing! I have to confirm something with my own eyes!�h (Kelly)

�gYou heard the lady, Shull! Off we go!�h (Brand)

We steadily gain speed and altitude. It�fs a really, really terrifying trip, but not nearly as bad as that thing in the
distance! That spider has started climbing up the side of the grand cavern's wall. It�fs actually able to do that?

Now that we�fre out of the sunlight sky, my eyes adjust to the darkness and I can make out its shape more clearly!
It's not a uniform color, seems oddly reflective and black tendrils peek out from its joints.

�gBrand! I think that�fs a super-sized Figment of Draglael!�h (Kelly)

�gYou sure? Those things don�ft appear in the shape of monsters!�h (Brand)

�gIt may be a combined Figment! Think about it! Shadows inside the hollow metal! Anything�fs possible with
this bloody Calling crap!�h (Kelly)

I can't be sure about it, but I'll be damned if I let it do as it pleases! It keeps climbing up and reached the ceiling.
Now it's headed... for us?

�gIt�fs headed toward the Sunstone, isn�ft it?�h (Brand)

Oh no�c if it destroys that Sunstone, we�fre majorly, totally, completely and royally screwed!

�gGet me close! Put me on top of it! Under it! Just-�h (Kelly)

�gI got it!�h (Brand)

�gKraaaa!�h (Shull)

Shull flies up and goes in the gap between the abdomen and the stone ceiling. He drops me down and I land on the
upside-down spider. The skin is definitely metallic. Looks to be a mix of all those things on the ground. It�fs
surprisingly stable, so I don�ft have any problems with my balance. I glance at Brand, looks like he�fs already
retreated.

I take a stance with my feet aligned with my shoulders. The spider�fs front is to my right, and its rear is to my left.

*Tak tak tak tak*

The chest plate opens, revealing a silver colored stick-shaped object. One end of it has that Mountain Sapphire
embedded into it. It�fs just long enough to allow me to grip it with both of Scrappy�fs hands, like a sword handle.
Which is exactly what I do. I start channeling mana into it.

�g -------------�h (Kelly)

I keep pouring in a whole Magic Stone�fs worth of mana! I�fm not holding back! Sod the consequences! At this
rate it�fs going to reach the Sunstone and everything will go to shit! But I won�ft let you do what you want, you
worthless sack of piss!

�g -------------�h (Kelly)

This weapon is the product of my knowledge, Nano�fs insight, Red�fs mana and Ellie�fs dreams! There�fs no
way it can fail in its duty! I�fm going to teach you what it means to stand against the combined might of [Black
Flame]!

�g -------------�h (Kelly)

Scrappy�fs hands glow with an awesome power!

�g -------------�h (Kelly)

This burning grip tells me to defeat you!

�g -------------�h (Kelly)

Take this! My love, my anger, and all of my sorrows!

�g [Star Sword]�h (Kelly)

An impossibly long blade made out of pure white light expands out of the handle in an instant! I swing it down
sideways in a full circle, painting the whole area in a flash of white! The heat from it is so intense that the
handle melts within seconds, fusing Scrappy�fs hands together and wrecking the weapon.

*SQUUEAAAAAAAAAAAAAEEEE*

A high pitched wail nearly deafens me! The surface of it the giant body I�fm standing on now has a single
unbroken line of molten metal across it. After being sliced cleanly in two, the newly-created left and right half of it
lose all strength and part ways.

Having run completely out of mana, Scrappy plummets through the newly opened gap underneath, falling helplessly
to the ground below.
With me inside it.
Chapter 92 - Every vacation gets way more fun when you bring friends
and family - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

�gKraaaaa!�h (Shull)

*Clang*

�gOoof!�h (Kelly)

Shull snatches me of the air with a violent jolt. Oh thank goodness! I completely forgot they were around and almost
resigned myself to getting splattered against the ground!

�gYou alright in there Kelly?�h (Brand)

�gArgh! It hurts like a cunt! But I�fll live!�h (Kelly)

The heat from over-charging the [Star Sword] is seeping into my right hand. To melt even Scrappy�fs
impregnable hide, just what kind of ridiculous thing did we make?

�gWhat of the spider? I can�ft see!�h (Kelly)

No part of Scrappy will move. Not even the helmet. I need to channel some of my own mana into it, but that�fll
take time. Right now I�fm stuck staring at the ground.

�gWell. You sliced it in half. It�fs still clinging to the ceiling though.�h (Brand)

�gOh�c is it still moving?�h (Kelly)

�gNot that I can see! Hang on we�fre coming in for a landing!�h (Brand)

The gryphon approach the ground and drops me with a bit of a thud, landing me on my face. Well, it's awkward but
as long as I can concentrate...

�g---------- [Create Metal Golem] ---- [Golem Link]�h (Kelly)

I regain control of Scrappy. My own mana reserves are pretty small compared to that Magic Stone, but it should be
enough for basic movement or emergency combat.

My hands are still fused together though, so that last thing won�ft happen. I stand up and look upwards. The two
halves of the spider are indeed still clinging to the ceiling. I can even see a red line of molten rock where the [Star
Sword] cut into the mountain itself.

�gI have to go check on the legions. I�fm leaving you here so don�ft do anything stupid!�h (Brand)

Brand spouts some scolding words and flies off to manage the army. I�fm more worried about the faint distant
groan that�fs still coming from Umph�fs direction. He�fs still not done, huh? I can clearly see him shining like a
diamond under the Sunstone.

*SHRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII*
Another loud sound comes from the remains of the spider�c Remains? Figments don�ft leave remains! It�fs still
alive! I stare upwards in horror.

The two halves are moving. The legs, which are currently dangling each piece from the ceiling like a tasteless
chandelier, are flexing and making the Figment�fs parts swing left and right. Looking at it from below, I see a still-
red outline where the metal shell was cut. And inside is a writhing black mass. Seems like it's healthier than I
thought.

So�c it�fs like that after all, huh? What is it with this trend of my worst fears coming to life? What�fs next? They
glue themselves back together and wreck the Sunsto-

�gNope. Nope. I did not just think that.�h (Kelly)

*SLAM*

�gThe two half-spiders colliding and fusing back together? Not actually happening!�h (Kelly)

That�fs right! It�fs one of those things, huh? The Calling was within me all along! I just had to defeat it by
conquering my fears, right? Yeah, that sounds like some stupid trial those worthless titans would think up!

*SHRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII*

�gAAAAAAAH! YOU HAVE GOT TO BE SHITTING MEEEEEE!�h (Kelly)

This is bad! This is the worst! What do I do? What do I DOOOOO!? If only that peeper or Red were here they�fd-

Wait, that�fs it! What is it Nano said about huge problems?

Deconstruct the huge problem into smaller problems! Fix those one by one and you�fll arrive at the solution!

Okay! Alright! First problem! That spider is repairing itself. No idea how long it will take, but it doesn�ft look like
it�fs instantaneous. Nothing I can do there! Moving on!

Second problem! It�fs too far up. This one is easy, Brand can bring me back up there!

Third problem! Scrappy is out of fuel. Unlike the Fifth, the Sixth generation is too heavy for me to fight under my
own mana. I can move around and walk, but that�fs it. I need a charged Mana Stone. I should have a few of those
stashed at that forward base!

Fourth problem! I have no idea where I am! Wait, I just need to get Brand to carry me anyway, right? Let�fs go
with that.

Okay, so Brand grabs me, brings me back to the base, I swap over Scrappy�fs mana source and then he can bring
me back up there! Shouldn�ft take too long!

Fifth problem! My hands are fused together with molten metal and I have no weapons I can use! Aaaah it�fs
hopeless! It�fs already fused itself back together! It�fs starting to walk towards the Sunstone again!

�gAll Legions! We are about to drop the enemy from the ceiling! Do not get crushed and get ready to retaliate!�h
(Brand)

Huh?

> Krom PoV <

�gYou sure about this, Major?!�h (Krom)

�gNot in the slightest! How many arrows do you have left?�h (Brand)

�gAll of them! 120 in all!�h (Krom)

The Figments of Draglael disappeared almost immediately after he restocked me, so I have plenty. I�fm not
convinced this plan will work though. I mean it�fs simple if you think about it:

1. Ride the gryphon up to the spider Figment

2. Hit its legs with the special arrows
3. Those relatively thin legs will disappear
4. The spider falls to the ground

Like that, the Sunstone is safe and the Legions can wear the spider down. Simple. Except that:

1. It�fs my first time riding a gryphon

2. I have no confidence I�fll actually hit anything
3. Those legs are actually as thick as towers
4. See 1 through 3

�gMajor! This isn�ft going to happen!�h (Krom)

�gWe have to try, damn it! If we lose that Sunstone we likely lose any chance of waking the Steelmother!�h
(Brand)

�g... Yeah.�h (Krom)

Ultimately I just have to focus on hitting the legs repeatedly. A moving target from a mounted position.

It�fs okay Krom. You got this. Just imagine you�fre shooting an unsuspecting animal in the forest! The fact this
animal happens to be a giant fucking spider is completely irrelevant!

I nock an arrow and concentrate on my aim.

> Kelly PoV <

�gBrand you glorious blastard!�h (Kelly)

I pump my fist into the air involuntarily! I decided to climb out of Scrappy for the moment. I�fm unable to use any
weapons inside it anyway. Right now I�fm just watching someone else do the heavy lifting for once!

That�fs brilliant! Somehow I completely forgot about Krom and his outstanding marksmanship. He likes to put
himself down, but that guy is really good with a bow! It looks like he�fs consistently nailing that thing with
[Impact Pellet] tipped-arrows!

It�fs only been a minute or two at most, and they�fve already severed three of its legs! Ohh there goes a fourth
one! Along with a painful scream that�fs somehow music to my ears! With that all four of the legs on the front half
of it are gone! Looks like the Figment is struggling to keep its grip and stopped completely!

With a sitting duck like that-

*SCCCRIIEIAIEAIIEAEAI*
Yep, there goes a fifth leg! It�fs dangling pathetically from the mountain�fs underside!

*SQUEEEEEEE*

And then it peels off the ceiling completely, flailing and screaming pointlessly as it falls.

*DOGOOOOON*

With a crash and a cloud of dust it falls down to the ground! Way to go Krom! I am buying that guy all the ale he
can drink for a lifetime!

�gAll Legions! Form a perimeter around the titan! Do not leave the sunlight! There are still-UGEH!�h (Brand)

NOOO! Brand! A giant black tentacle just swatted Shull out of the sky! It appeared out of the dust cloud with no
chance of dodging it! I can�ft see them! Where are they!? That fucking spider!

�g-is this ACK! Ah! The Major is down! *Cough cough* We need a medic! We crashed on the north-east of the
*Guh* of the titan! *Cough*�h (Krom)

Krom�fs unsteady voice echoes through the battlefield! Looks like they're alive! At least Krom is...

*SHRIIIIIIIIIII*

The spider which had barely made it halfway to the Sunstone is coming out of the dust cloud. It�fs�c completely
regenerated. And going back towards the wall.

I climb back into Scrappy and-

�c

�c

�gThere�fs nothing left�c�h (Kelly)

We. Are. Fucked. We are 100%, assuredly, completely and unequivocally F! U! C! K! FUCKED!

That gryphon was the only hope we had. That Figment is so high up that regular spells will never reach it. I can't do
a [Catapult] by myself, either...

�gMaybe Umph can finish in time? No, he said three-to-four days. It�fs still the first half of the third day�c�h
(Kelly)

There really is nothing left. I can�ft even run because I�fm [Chained]! I�fm screaming at my body to abandon
everything, but it won�ft budge! I have no way out!

Maybe�c it�fs just how it�fs meant to be.

�gHah. Hahahahaha! It�fs all worthless! Every last bit of it!�h (Kelly)

I let out a dry laugh at this ridiculous world! I�fm stuck down here in the dark, doing a job I never wanted, away
from the people I really care about. Well, I can�ft run, but I can still give up, right? Not like I can possibly do
anything at this point!
I climb out of Scrappy and take my lucky hip flask out of the inner compartment. I sit down on Scrappy's shoulders
and open the container. I have front row seats to the fall of Ecebis. If that doesn't deserve a drink, I don't know what
does!

�gFirst up! To the strictest, greediest and meanest boss lady in the land!�h (Kelly)

I raise the container to make a toast to the people who got me this far. There's a lot of them, so this is going to take a
while.

�gTo Kiressara! May you split this bloody mountain in two when you finally come looking for me!�h (Kelly)

*GLUG GLUG GLU-*

{�gGreat idea, Kelly!�h}

*-PFFFUUUU*

�gHack! Hack! Koff! What? Huh?�h (Kelly)

�c

I look around and strain my ears, but there�fs only silence around. I thought I heard Red�fs voice just now! I even
spit out the whiskey in my mouth! Ahhhh what a waste! Okay, let's be more careful.

Right! Moving on. I close my eyes and focus on the next person.

*Crack*

�gTo the fastest, strongest and- *RRRUMBLE* - shakiest? No no no, that�fs not right.�h (Kelly)

Stupid spider should at least stop rampaging when I'm being all dramatic over here!

�gThe fastest, strongest and cheeriest psycho-�h (Kelly)

*CRRRACK*

�gOh for the love of booze what in�c the�c �g (Kelly)

I open my eyes while protesting to nobody in particular. That�fs when I saw the sky. The actual sky. A gigantic
gash was spreading across the mountain above me, splitting it open like an egg. Blue sky with a few fluffy clouds
could be seen through it.

Actual sunlight shined down onto the Dwarven Republic of Ecebis.

{Good work Kelly! We�fll take it from here!}

�gNano? You�c what in the-�h (Kelly)

{Come now, Kelly. I put so much effort into making Scrappy alongside you. Did you honestly think I�fd leave it
unattended?}

I stare blankly at Scrappy's head between my legs. Now that I think about it, the voice is coming from inside the
helmet, isn't it?
�gYou�c hid something? You�fve been listening�c the entire time?�h (Kelly)

{Oh yes. Watching, too, actually. We only arrived yesterday, but you seemed to have everything under control.}

�g...�h (Kelly)

{Until just now, that is. We were really troubled on how to get inside. That idea of yours really saved us!
Hahahaha!}

�g...�h (Kelly)

{Oh right. Two special people wanted to say something to you.}

{�gHey Aunty Kelly!�h} (Sophie)

{�gWe came to pick you up since you were running late!�h} (Lara)

�g...�h (Kelly)

That�fs when I noticed a giant shadow interrupt the first real sunlight this place has ever seen. I look up with a
movement so stiff, it felt like my neck was creaking.

It takes a long time to gather the mana and then activate the spell so it�fs useless in an emergency. (Kira)

Couple of extra Flight Badges and a few of those city-scale magic stones. (Kira)

Technically, you haven�ft been very trustworthy as of late. (Kira)

Red�fs words flash across my mind. I see. She had been planning this for a while. And she kept her promise of
staying home.

Right now, descending through the formerly sealed mountain of Ecebis was a flying slab of rock, with a scrap-
metal-looking wall around the edges and an all too familiar tower sticking out of the middle. It was steadily
approaching the stupefied Figment.

And standing on top of that tower were two of the craziest people to ever grace this world.

�g�g----- [High Beam]�h�h (Kirellie)

Having cut off the spider�fs only route to the Sunstone, they then proceeded to cut off all of its legs. It fell down on
the ground and into the natural sunlight.

�g�g--------------------- [Grand Solar Flare]�h�h (Kirellie)

An enormous pillar of bright yellow light struck down the spider, turning into a smouldering pile of screeching
noise. As if all that took place a little while ago was some sick joke.

I don�ft have enough alcohol on hand to deal with this. I�fm still going to try though!

*GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG GLUG*

�gHaaah. Yep. Not enough. Hey Nano?�h (Kelly)

{Yes, Kelly?}
�gThanks.�h (Kelly)

{You�fre very welcome.}

Shout out to this post for a jolly good guess!

Chapter 93 - Observe and respect foreign customs, but do not imitate
them carelessly - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kelly PoV <

Wow, that spider Figment does not know when to give up!

*SHRIIIIIIIIIIEEEEE*

It lets out yet more of those pathetic cries as its legs are sliced clean off by several giant transparent blades.

Since the actual sun�fs position has moved on, it�fs not possible to aim a [Solar Flare] at the right angle
anymore. So defeating the Figment is taking longer. Not much longer though. Red and Ellie simply keep throwing
that [Slash] spell at it until it becomes spider salad, then they sprinkle it with Fire Magic for good measure. All
that�fs left is a giant pile of ash.

The two of them are standing in sunlight, so they�fre completely safe from that accursed black smoke. I think
they�fre actually having a picnic in between these fights.

No, perhaps 'fights' is the wrong word. One-sided trampling? It�fs a bit long, but it fits. In the end the Figment is
big, but it's not nearly as strong as the Elder Dragon. Our main problem was reaching it. Just like the Elder Dragon.

�gSo, that�fs your boss, huh?�h (Brand)

�gYep.�h (Kelly)

�gScary lady.�h (Brand)

�gYep.�h (Kelly)

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

We both chug the ale in our mugs. It's not like there's anything we can do right now, anyway. We�fre in the field
hospital at the forward command base, recovering. We�fre not expected to be out in the field any time soon. Not
like there�fs a need. Instead we�fre just enjoying the trampling that�fs taking place several hundred meters
away.

It's a repeat for me though. A spider Figment popped out of that the same hole as the first, made its way over to
where Ellie and Red are flying their tower, then got completely obliterated in a matter of seconds. About 40-50
minutes later, another one pops out and it repeats like that.

�gThose two gonna hold out? They won�ft run out of mana, right?�h (Brand)

�gDunno. Nano?�h (Kelly)

I turn towards Nano�fs butler golem. It dropped in to check on me once I got here with Scrappy and has been
keeping me company. Speaking of which, Scrappy is currently all alone in the corner. I�fve been working it hard
these last few days so it needs a lot of repairs done.

�gThey said they can keep going for a few days at this rate.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gThere you have it, big guy. They got this.�h (Kelly)
�gSo. You going to tell me what happened with the giant gash in the mountain?�h (Brand)

Brand woke up just a while ago. His first reaction to seeing the blue sky and fluffy clouds for the first time in many
years was to grab a pint and enjoy the view. The big guy always had a good head on his shoulders, even if it was a
little thick. He more or less figured out what happened while he was out.

Well, except for the completely incomprehensible state of the ceiling.

�gRed said she didn�ft know how to get in here. So she split it open.�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Brand)

�gTechnically it was Kelly�fs idea.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gOh no! Don�ft you pin this on me! I had nothing to do with that!�h (Kelly)

�g *Cough* So. Uh. Who�fs this?�h (Brand)

Next he points to Nano�fs golem. It�fs standing there casually in a traditional black butler�fs uniform and white
gloves. The smooth white scalp and featureless face looks more like a weird mask or a bucket rather than an actual
head.

�gThat�fs Nano. We worked together on all the gear and weapons I use. Nano�fs not a person though, that�fs
just a golem under its control.�h (Kelly)

�gA pleasure, Brand.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gAh. Yeah.�h (Brand)

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Following Brand's lead, I join him in drinking some more. He keeps glancing over at the flying black tower that Red
and Ellie are fighting from. He�fs not asking any questions about it. I�fm really thankful for that, though. I really
have no idea where to even begin with explaining that.

�g... What about Krom and Shull?�h (Brand)

I heard about how the medics found Brand, Krom and Shull after the Figment attacked them. The gryphon had
apparently taken the brunt of it and was in a sorry state. Krom and Brand were thrown off his back during their fall.
Krom was mostly alright, just a sprained leg, but Brand had it bad. So bad that he hadn�ft woken up even after the
healing magic did its thing.

�gThey�fll be fine. Krom didn�ft even get knocked out, you know?�h (Kelly)

�gAnd Shull?�h (Brand)

�gGryphons are still technically monsters, you know? Even if healing magic isn�ft effective, they have that
tenacious vitality thing going on for them. He'll be fine.�h (Kelly)

�gI see. I'm glad.�h (Brand)

He�fs a little relieved. Just a little though. Man in his position can�ft be concerned with individual lives too much.
Even though we�fve had low casualties these last few days�c we�fve still had them. About 1,500 dwarves in
total. A few of our clan didn�ft make it, either.

�gHow long was I out?�h (Brand)

�gA little over four hours. Incidentally, that just now was the fifth time the spider Figment came back.�h (Kelly)

It keeps appearing out of that huge hole it opened the first time and trying to get past Red. I thought the Calling was
capable of learning, but there�fs no way it can comprehend those two. Even I'm still struggling on that one.

�gAnd the legions?�h (Brand)

�gThey�fve had time to rest so they�fre in top shape. Captain Strongarm�fs got it covered.�h (Kelly)

Even if the Calling resumed its initial strategy of using thousands of living armors, we�fd just keep repeating what
we were doing before Red arrived.

�gI mean�c all this...�h (Brand)

He waves in the general direction of the huge crack in the mountain.

�gUhm�c Captain Strongarm�fs got it covered, right?�h (Kelly)

�gHeh. I doubt it. That old sod�fs probably ripping out what little hair he had left.�h (Brand)

�gTell me about it. Seems to me he hates change on principle. I mean, he kept calling Scrappy a farce until I
knocked him around a bit.�h (Kelly)

�gIs that why he suddenly appeared with a few less teeth?�h (Brand)

�gNobody insults my work.�h (Kelly)

�gI�fll keep that in mind. You know, it�fs not just those two, right? You�fre pretty terrifying yourself.�h
(Brand)

�gOh come on! In what way?!�h (Kelly)

�gIn the way that you literally dragged a real live titan up to the Gates of Solitude and then ripped a giant hole right
through that millennia-old enchanted steel because you were pissed off.�h (Brand)

�gUrk! *Cough* I guess that did happen�c�h (Kelly)

�gOh! And how about the way you cackle maniacally when you fight? Or how you sliced a castle-sized spider in
half? Or the way you could-�h (Brand)

�gOkay! I get it! You can stop now!�h (Kelly)

Crap. I just realized it, but I�fve been doing some rather absurd things for a while, huh?

*GLUG GLUG*

�gFuuu. Well I�fm going to get a refill.�h (Kelly)

I turn around and walk inside the field hospital. Well, it�fs just a tent with makeshift bedding strewn about the
place. Most of the injured legionnaires recovered and went back into the field during the unexpected break.
As for me, I have important kegs to worry about!

�gHey Kelly! Come back out here! Your titan friend�fs glowing!�h (Brand)

Huh? That�fs new. I peek my head outside and look towards the 50-meter steel statue in the distance. Right at its
feet I can barely make out Umph, and he is indeed shining.

Come to think of it, I don�ft hear the distant hum-turned-groan that was in the background until just now.

***

�gIt is good to see you are well, Daughtahs of de Stahs. And de Breddahs and Sistahs of Steel, too.�h (Umph)

Umph�fs shining had died down by the time me and Brand made it here. We met up with Red and Ellie along the
way. It seems that spider Figment isn�ft coming back for the moment.

�gSo? What happens now?�h (Captain Strongarm)

Ah right, the second in command is here too. That is, right next to Umph. Pretty much the entire dwarven force is
looking this way from around us, though.

�gDe ritual was a success. I have succeeded in waking up my compatriot.�h (Umph)

�gHear that you lot! The bloody titan did it!�h (Brand)

Brand�fs magic-enhanced voice sounded out through the field.

*THUMP THUMP THUMP*

*HUUOOOOOOOO*

They responded with the same cheer that started this.

�gWow, they really-�h (Kira)

�gNot the time, Red!�h (Kelly)

�g... sorry.�h (Kira)

She was about to go on another tirade about dwarven behavior, so I had to shush her. It�fs a bit rude, but I really
cannot deal with her �eI told you so�f attitude right now!

�gSo why isn�ft the big steel lady moving?�h (Ellie)

�c

�gUmph? Please tell me you didn�ft mess up.�h (Kelly)

�gI did not mess up. Thanks to all of you, I have completed my purpose in coming here.�h (Umph)

�gBut that purpose isn�ft waking up the statue, is it?�h (Kira)

Red's eyes narrowed at Umph's words. I agree, the way he said it is pretty suspicious.
�gI will. In time. But dere is an order to things.�h (Umph)

�gSo then�c who did the titan wake up?�h (Brand)

�gDo not fret. He shall arrive soon. Ah, I think that�fs him coming in now!�h (Umph)

Just as he said that, the air next to him seemed to�c bend.

*ZU ZU ZU ZU ZU ZU ZU*

A black ball formed in mid-air. It started growing steadily with a dense black cloud forming almost instantly around
it.

�gUmph�c what is that?�h (Kelly)

Wasn�ft the Sunstone able to repulse Figments of Khamis?

�gDe Dark One.�h (Umph)

Ah I see. It�fs not a Figment. It's the actual titan. That makes sense. S-Somehow.

�gI knew it! I told you so! I told you it reeked of ancient evil!�h (Kira)

�gRed! Not! Now!�h (Kelly)

�gEveryone back up! To arms! Something�fs incoming!�h (Brand)

We all back away from the mass of darkness and form a circle. I didn�ft bring Scrappy since he�fs still badly
damaged! I can�ft do anything since I�fm unarmed, but I can at least give it mean looks!

Heh, unarmed.

The mass grows steadily until it becomes a few meters in diameter. Two white horizontal slits appear on its surface.
Those are... eyes, right? They expand into triangles and blink a few times. Those are definitely eyes. Three
ertical white stripes then went appeared right above the eyes. Almost like a headband.

�gHello, Dark One.�h (Umph)

What? How is he so casual!? Ah, he brought it here, didn�ft he?

�gUmphrumphil?�h (Dark One)

It spoke in a low, deep voice that seemed to roll in from the horizon and carry on into eternity. After looking at
Umph, it spun around, setting its gaze on all the gathered dwarves. Just staring into that dark abyss is giving me a
headache!

When it saw the still metal statue, the white slits became full circles. It then swung around to face Umph again.

�gTovarisch! Chevo blyat!?�h (Dark One)

Huh? What�fs with that weird way of speaking? Or rather, what are those nonsensical words?
�gI have found de way, Dark One. With de help of de Daughtahs of de Stahs.�h (Umph)

It turns to stare at Ellie and Red.

�gPiiiiizdec! Jebem ti-�h (Dark One)

�gDe Daughtahs of de Stahs do not know your tongue, Dark One.�h (Umph)

�gCyka blyat�c I no very good London.�h (Dark One)

It rolled its eyes and finally spoke some words I understood. Not many though. Okay, I guess it�fs bad at speaking
our language? But then it�fs talking fine with Umph? What gives? No, I know better than to actually ask him that.

�gWait, so, this is Khamis, right? As in the titan, Khamis? The one said to have made the moons? That Khamis?
�h (Kira)

�gDat is correct, Daughtah of de Stahs.�h (Umph)

�gAnd you just spent the last three days waking him up�c why?�h (Kira)

�gTo end de Calling.�h (Umph)

�gBut what about Draglael?!�h (Brand)

�gCalm down, Breddah of Steel. De Metal One has slept for millennia. A few minutes more will do no harm.�h
(Umph)

�gI guess... Stil, this is unnerving.�h (Brand)

�gTitans are all pacifist, right? I mean he won�ft suddenly lash out at us for killing its pets, right?�h (Kira)

�gA mne pohui!�h (Khamis)

�gDe Dark One says he does not mind. Dey are but empty vessels with no souls, after all.�h (Umph)

I mean I guess? I wouldn�ft care if someone attacked my vomit after a heavy night of drinking. It�fs that sort of
thing, right?

�gSo Dark One. Do you wish to join me-�h (Umph)

�gNAHUI POSHEL, DEBIL!�h (Khamis)

Woah. I'm not sure what the question was, but that did not sound like an amicable agreement!

�gDen what do you plan to do?�h (Umph)

�gCheeki breeki! Shashlik! Vodka! Pelmen! Aiiii pizdec!�h (Khamis)

The eyes seemed to turn upwards while the rest of him was swaying side to side a little. I guess he's excited about...
those things.

�gI see. I wish you de best and may our paths cross again.�h (Umph)
�gIDI NAHUI!�h (Khamis)

Its eyes made a clear frown at Umph. Maybe they don't get along? The oppressive mass of darkness then
disappeared completely with a small pop.

�gUmph. What just happened?�h (Kelly)

�gDe Dark One said he will be busy for de near future. Rest assured Sistah of Steel. De Calling will not return.�h
(Umph)

Yeah... somehow I think it will though. Eventually, that is.

�gIs that okay? We just let an ancient evil run free, right?�h (Kira)

�gTitans aren�ft evil, though. They just�c are.�h (Kelly)

�gSeemed pretty evil to me.�h (Kira)

�gI agree with Kira. That guy was clearly suspicious!�h (Ellie)

�gDespite de looks and de voice, de Dark One is a really nice guy, you know?�h (Umph)

�gI get it! He�fs like the Olboun of the titans!�h (Kira)

�gOhhhhh!�h (Ellie and Kelly)

Red's thinking speed is as impressive as ever! She caught on instantly!

�gOkay! That�fs all very good! But can you wake up the bloody Steelmother already!?�h (Brand)

Ah right. That was a thing we had to do originally,

�g... it�fs not going to take another 3-day long ritual, is it?�h (Kelly)

�gNo. Now dat de Dark One is awake, dis should take but a moment.�h (Umph)

The big blue bird spreads its wings and flies up to the steel statue. He lands on its shoulder, but the difference
in scale makes the towering Umph look like an oversized pet bird.

He lowers his head next to the statue�fs ear and inhales deeply.

�gWAKE UP, FATTY!�h (Umph)

He shouted. For the first time since we met, he actually shouted.

Ow. My ears.

In a single motion, Graglael�fs steel eyelids fly open, her calm, motherly face becomes twisted with anger and her
head snaps to the side to face the birdbrain on her shoulder.

�gYOU FOCKEN WOT MATE?!�h (Graglael)

Khamis was brought to you by Boris the Shashlik King. I wanted him to speak a made up language, but I was too
lazy to make up a language. So there.
Chapter 94 - Some people need a vacation to recover from their vacation
- Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

The first thing this dwarven-shaped titan did after waking up from a millennia-long slumber was swear. Well, at
least she didn�ft ask for a drink or a fight. So�c that�fs good? Yes, let�fs decide that�fs a good thing.

�gAh! Wait, this Umph?�h (Draglael)

�gYes, Metal One. Tis I.�h (Umph)

�gYeah, that pooftah-like way of talking is exactly Umph. Hmm? What�fs all this then? Why�fs there a bunch
of me good ol�f boys gathered round?�h (Draglael)

Now she finally noticed the thousands upon thousands of dwarves staring at her.

�gOi! What did you make them do!�h (Draglael)

She turns back to Umph with yet another sour face. I thought titans were pacifists, right? Umph�fs pretty docile,
that Khamis fellow just looked scary, but this woman looks like she�fs ready to throw a punch at the drop of a hat.

�gI was waking de Dark One up first.�h (Umph)

�gAnd de feckin�f Calling went into overdrive�c Why would- Wait, you actually did it didn�ft you!?�h
(Draglael)

�gOh yes. De Dark One is out and about already. De Breddahs and Sistahs of Steel were a great help.�h (Umph)

�gYou wot?! You actually got that lazy prat to crawl out of his cave?!�h (Draglael)

�gWell no, we just met with a projection.�h (Umph)

�gAh, right. But he�fs up and about? Well, that�fs good! I�fm just glad you didn�ft cock it up like you always
do!�h (Draglel)

She finally stopped chatting with the bird on her shoulder and looked at the rest of us.

�gAlright, you lot! Which one of you cunts broke my focken mountain!?�h (Draglael)

�c

Crap.

�gUhm. That would be me, ma�fam.�h (Kira)

I raise my hand timidly. Almost reflexively, actually�c Well it�fs for the best. She looks down at me with a
curious face.

�gOi! Would ya look at the knockers on this one! Huh? Ah, one of those people eh? Right, I see what�fs going
on.�h (Draglael)
�eThose�f people? Does she mean humans? The way she said it feels a bit weird, like she�fs insulting me! Her
gaze shifted onto Ellie.

�gThere�fs even two of ya! Well innit great! Oi Umph. You�fre fixing that mountain! Also that giant bloody
�eole over there! This whole mess is your fault to begin with!�h (Draglael)

�gI understand, Metal One. I shall make amends.�h (Umph)

Well�c at least she didn�ft plan to shove that all on me. I mean, yes, I did technically split the mountain in two,
but it was indeed Umph who said we should follow as soon as possible! The fact that I was planning on doing that
anyway is something this titan does not need to know. This and that are completely unrelated.

�gWe�fll be �eavin a little talk later, so stick around.�h (Draglael)

Draglael turned back to me and spoke in a surprisingly quiet, yet firm voice. There�fs hope for the dwarven race
yet! I was seriously worried at her initial outburst, but I guess titans really are a peaceful lot in the end.

Now she�fs looking over the sea of meat-headedness around us. We�fre finally going to see the dignity of-

�gListen up you right shits! I have three things to tell you!�h (Draglael)

Nevermind. Also. Ow. My ears.

�gFirst! You make me proud!�h (Draglael)

*THUMP THUMP THUMP*

*HUUOOOOOOOO*

I still can�ft get used to that weird cheer. Well, at least it�fs not one of those long ovations�c Oh! So that�fs
why they love doing that so much!

�gSecond! Now that I�fm up and about, there�fs gonna be some changes! You tossers still have a Senate, right?
�h (Draglael)

*THUMP THUMP THUMP*

*HUUOOOOOOOO*

Draglael facepalms with a sigh. I guess even she underestimated these people.

�g... I�fll be taking that as a yes. Okay, third and most important! Let�fs get pissed!�h (Draglael)

*THUMP THUMP THUMP*

*HUUOOOOOOOO*

I take it back. The dwarven people are doomed. Well, ultimately this turn of events is more or less what I expected.

***

The thousands of dwarves are still at it. It�fs been 9 hours and the sun�fs set already, yet they show no signs of
stopping their drunken rampaging. At least those Senate guys had sobered up enough to meet with Draglael. Since
the 50-meter titan obviously can�ft fit inside their assembly hall, they�fre having a little sit-down under the
Sunstone.

I have to say, seeing sunlight pour down on the left while one of the moons peeks through the ceiling to the right is a
really beautiful sight.

While those people are busy with dwarven matters, we�fve returned to our tower along with Kelly. I�fve made
her sit at our dining table. Ellie and the kids already went to bed in our sound-proof room. Which is good, because
Kelly�fs about to get the tongue-lashing of a lifetime!

�gSo. We�fve put it off for a while, but it�fs time for me to ask - have you actually gone insane!? Did you not
think to try and include us in this whole thing even once?!�h (Kira)

�gLook, Red! You should by now know it was risky! What if the Calling-�h (Kelly)

�gNo! None of that! If you had just calmly explained the situation instead of rushing off like an idiot, we
could�fve come up with something!�h (Kira)

�gOh yeah!? Like what?�h (Kelly)

�gOh I don�ft know. Like following you from above on a flying piece of land!? Or how about Ellie just
restraining you in mid-air during one of those rampages you had you to endure?!�h (Kira)

Those are just two simple and immediately effective things I came up with just now! If we had known the full
details there would be no need for her to suffer like that! I�fm sure Nano could�fve come up with dozens of
solutions in an instant!

�gBut the border wouldn�ft let-�h (Kelly)

�gYou broke their gate and they still let you in! I seriously doubt it would�fve been any different if we cam with
you! I let you go peacefully because you insisted! But how can I trust you if you�fre willing to abandon us like
that!?�h (Kira)

�g...�h (Kelly)

She�fs looking away with a difficult face, but still doesn�ft want to apologize! Does she have any idea just how
painful it was to watch what she was going through?! This clan and their blasted secrets almost got her killed!

�gWell!? What was the real reason you didn�ft include us and ran off?�h (Kira)

�g... I can�ft tell you.�h (Kelly)

�gOh! OH! You can�ft tell us! Why? Are we not worthy of the Darkhand clan�fs mighty secrets!?�h (Kira)

�gNo! I mean, not that! I mean I literally cannot tell you! The words will not leave my mouth! I wanted to! I
wanted to tell you everything! But it was physically impossible!�h (Kelly)

�gThat�fs it? What, because of an oath or something? Are you actually a moron? You lost an arm, Kelly! You
fought a hydra bare-handed! It�fs a miracle you�fre even alive! What if your stubbornness cost you your life?!�h
(Kira)

�gI would�fve lost a lot more if I let you follow me without knowing anything!�h (Kelly)

�gThen tell us so we can prepare! We�fre adventurers! This is literally what we do!�h (Kira)
�gI already told you. I can�ft!�h (Kelly)

�gBut WHY?�h (Kira)

�gBecause of the [Chains That Bind]! Ack!�h (Kelly)

She her only hand against her mouth as if trying to shut herself up. Her eyes widened like dinner plates.

What are these chains she blurted out? Another titan secret? A curse? Some sort of magic seal?

�gI�c I said it�c�h (Kelly)

Hmm? Well yes, she blurted out something she clearly didn�ft mean to, but just how deep did she bury it to be
shocked to this extent?

�g [Chains That Bind]. I can say it!? What?�h (Kelly)

Wait, just the mere fact she�fs able to speak about it is shocking? So it�fs a curse after all, huh? Now she�fs
gone completely silent and closed her eyes. What�fs going on?

�gWhat are-�h (Kira)

She raises her arm to interrupt me. I close my mouth reflexively.

�gRed! Please! I have to focus! I�fll listen to all you have to say later, but for now please just sit there quietly and
let me focus!�h (Kelly)

�c

She�fs certainly concentrating on something. She�fs sitting perfectly still, eyes closed, palm on her forehead.

I have no idea what�fs going on. Maybe I should�fve asked Ellie to be here too? No, extracting those answers by
force is meaningless. This is a question of trust. The lack of trust, to be precise.

�gI can�ft hear it. I can�ft hear that bloody voice anymore!�h (Kelly)

She looks at me with an oddly cheerful expression.

�gKelly�c what voice?�h (Kira)

�gHold on Red! I�fm thinking!�h (Kelly)

She gets up from her chair and starts pacing around the room.

�gDarkhand will be chained�c then we protect the titans which wake the Steelmother. She turns the nightmares
into dreams and then the Shadowspinner will know peace and the calling will Collapse, so the Darkhand will be
free.�h (Kelly)

She�fs mumbling something incomprehensible. Looks like she�fs actually using her head for things other than
headbutts! I�fm so shocked I can barely respond!

�gBut Shadowspinner woke up first�c wait he wasn�ft even supposed to wake up, right? Then�c that means!
The order! Red! The order is wrong! It�fs all wrong!�h (Kelly)
�gIs�c that bad?�h (Kira)

�gBad!? It�fs bloody marvelous!�h (Kelly)

Erk! Her face has a smile so wide, it looks like it�fs gonna break! I reflexively recoiled a bit!

�gHahahahaha! That bloody birdbrain actually went and did it! Oh wow! I underestimated him! HAH! Hahahaha!
I�fm free! I�fm actually bloody free! You can go shove it up your ass, Chains! YEEEAAAH!�h (Kelly)

Now she�fs�c cheering?

�gRed! I know I�fm not making a lot of sense and I have a lot to answer for! But just�c I�fm sorry okay! I do
trust you! Way more than any of those bloody titans, that�fs for sure! I�fll explain and apologize later, but right
now I have some serious celebrating to do!�h (Kelly)

She made a bunch of noise again and left in a hurry. Okay, I don�ft know what�fs going on, but it looks like some
major burden has been lifted off her shoulders. She apologized and promised to explain so I�fll let it go for now.

Well, she�fll be back sooner than she realizes though. This place is still in the air, and she can�ft use the [Flight]
spell to get down on her own.

***

I approach the so-called Steelmother and the tired Senators. Looks like they opted to go for an all-nighter and still
aren�ft finished. But Draglael clearly said she wanted to speak with me yesterday, so here I am! Kelly is still off
celebrating somewhere around here.

�gFirst of all. You have my thanks for helping me, my people and my fellow titans in attaining our freedom. While
you may think your part in this is small, trust me when I say it is something that would�fve been impossible
without your aid. This is not a debt we can never truly repay.�h (Draglael)

She bowed. A titan actually bowed to me! It was scary though! That giant body suddenly bending forward made me
think that a mountain was falling on me!

�gBut we�fre still going to try anyway! Your mate Nano said you�fll be needing a bunch of stuff, so we�fll
help out with that!�h (Draglael)

I stare blankly at her. Nano? Stuff? What?

�gWhat the Steelmother means to say is that since Khamis is now awake, we expect to see a rapid decline in
monster activity in the Depths beneath Ecebis. We�fll be able to rapidly expand our mining operations and expect
an overflow of ores and gems and will be sharing a part of our surplus.�h (Senator)

One of the dwarven senators who still seems to have his wits about him spoke up and clarified the situation a bit. I
understand now. We�fll be needing a bunch of raw material for the not-yet-official Ministry of Progress, so Nano
negotiated a deal of some sort on our behalf. That�fs all well and good, but how do they plan on bringing it all the
way to Ferseit?

�gI thought this country didn�ft allow open trading like that?�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs the thing, we�fre going to open up the borders. No reason for keeping it closed anymore since the
Calling�fs gone. We�fve also prepared a few trading and cooperation agreements we�fd like to make with that
goofy king of yours, so I�fll be asking you bring some of these guys with you on your way back.�h (Draglael)
Wow. Okay. I guess they must�fve had a good reason for closing it down in the first place. I just assumed it was
shut off because dwarves like secrets. Apparently. My gaze wandered onto the gash in the sky that�fs still there.

�gHmm? What about that hole in the mountain? I thought Umph was sealing it?�h (Kira)

�gChanged my mind. It�fs bloody marvelous to have a skylight, innit? I�fll still have that poofter reinforce and
mend the rocks though. Someone was a bit too rough when they split this mountain open and nearly collapsed the
whole thing.�h (Draglael)

�gErm. That�c Sorry�c�h (Kira)

I obviously did not consider this at all. Why is it that every time I get a chance to use [Solar Flare] I end up going
completely out of control!? I should seriously think about sealing my usage of that spell.

Well, the titan�fs giving me that sort of motherly smile I use whenever Lara or Sophie do naughty things. She�fs
not yelling or anything, but I still feel like I was scolded.

�gActually, Draglael. I have one more favor to ask. Can you fix Kelly�fs arm?�h (Kira)

Kelly had spouted some line that Nano would somehow do that, but apparently Nano doesn�ft have the right
materials and parts to actually do it.

�gAh? What? Did she break it already? I only gave it to her a little while ago!�h (Draglael)

�c

�gOi Kelly! Get your sorry face over here ya ungrateful cunt!�h (Draglael)

She screamed that into the crowd of passed-out dwarves. Those idiots kept partying until they collapsed. The few
that wake up get right back to drinking. I see one particularly violent drunk stand up and slowly but unsteadily
making her way here.

�gWhat�fd you want ya old- *urp* windbag? Can�ft you see I�fm tryin�f to *urp* celbr- celebr- celebrate!
No that�fs not it! I�fm trying to find my pint!�h (Kelly)

She raises an empty mug in some futile complaint. Then I realized she raised that mug with her right hand.

�gKelly!? You got a new arm! Is that�c Mithril?�h (Kira)

The shiny metal limb is white with a green tint, not unlike our Adventurer Cards. The surface is completely smooth,
but the shape seems to mirror her flesh and blood arm perfectly!

�gOh hey Red! Hold on! This old *urp* old hag seems to have a beef to pick with me!�h (Kelly)

She swings that new arm of hers in a threatening way. Okay, let�fs intervene before I cause a brawl between a
drunken Kelly and a 50-meter steel statue. It could go either way, but the surroundings won�ft survive the
encounter.

�gSorry, it was my mistake. Thanks for taking care of our Kelly!�h (Kira)

I show my gratitude to the Steelmother with a small bow.

�g Your Kelly is it? You know she's basically my great-great-great-... well, doesn't matter.�h (Draglael)
�gOh hey Red! When did you get here!? *Urp* Do ya mind magicking up some ale for me? I can�ft seem to feel
my legs�c�h (Kelly)

Kelly shoves her mug closer at me. What am I? A magical keg?

�gGuh! Kelly! Don't shove that filthy mug at me! And there�fs even more blood on it than before!�h (Kira)

Noticeably more! I can barely look at it! Why does she insist on keeping that horrible thing around!?

�gOh right I forgot to mention! That mug�fs one of the things I made way back when! I call it the Slug and Chug
Mug!�h (Draglael)

�c

�gIt took a lot of work to make it indestructible, but it was worth it! It's perfect for bashing someone�fs face in!
Amirite, Kelly?�h (Draglael)

Umph helped make a miniature sun. Draglael made a weaponized mug. I�fm going to err on the side of caution and
assume Umph�fs case is the exception. Let�fs be sure to avoid any and all titans in the future!

�gOh yeah! Best mug ever this! Makes the ale taste like, like, like, fifteen nails on a dead man's chest! Yo ho ho
and�c Huh? Hey Red! Didn�ft see you *urp* there! You really should stop spinning!�h (Kelly)

*PLOP*

And she�fs out cold. Wonderful.

We are leaving this country right now! I have my hands full just dealing with one dwarf, I can�ft deal with their
titan and their whole army if they wake up! My head would explode for sure!

Ellie and I were worried sick about Kelly so we couldn�ft even enjoy the trip over here, let�fs be sure to correct
that on the way back! We�fll cuddle and kiss and make love above the clouds! Huhuhuhu, I can�ft wai-

�c

The dwarven delegation is coming with us, aren�ft they?

�gDraglael.�h (Kira)

�gYeah?�h (Draglael)

�gI really hate you right now.�h (Kira)

End of Act Six - Prepared For the Future

Side Story - And now for something completely different - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

Inspector Lilly Alasandara was currently waiting for someone. An adventurer by the name of Kiressara mil Quasse.
This young woman had been in talks with King Frederick Ferseit for the second day in a row. As a member of the
Ministry of Information, Lilly understood full well that it�fs possible to know too much, so she wisely avoided that
conference room and waited patiently outside the castle.

Director Grimm, Lilly�fs direct superior, had changed her orders regarding this Person of Interest several times, but
ultimately they all said the same. Tail Kiressara and be on the lookout for any suspicious activity.

When Kiressara finally left the castle, it was almost midnight. The normally busy streets of the capital were now
almost deserted. Lilly jotted down the time of her departure from the castle and quietly tailed her target. She had
already noted down in her log that Kiressara�fs wife and daughters had already left the castle several hours earlier,
likely to prepare and rest up for the next day.

Lilly had learned that the Quasse family was planning on returning to their hometown of Runetap, likely using a
flying mount to greatly shorten travel time. This meant Kiressara was alone in the middle of the night and she would
be leaving the capital first thing in the morning. To Lilly, this looked like a good opportunity for Kiressara to engage
in any illegal activity - if she had the intention to do so.

And thus, the Inspector followed her orders. And her target.

In truth, Lilly was deeply curious about Kiressara. This woman had displayed uncanny agility and swordsmanship
during a very recent show at the capital�fs arena. A mage had shown movements that made every rogue, spy and
thief in the crowd burn with envy. Even though she ended up cheering, Lilly was no different. What training method
would allow someone so young to develop both their physical and magical abilities to such an extent!? The
inspector�fs instincts were screaming - �eI want to know! I want to know!�f

However, Lilly withheld herself from being unprofessional. She continued following her orders. And Kiressara.

Lilly witnessed Kiressara enter the Adventurer�fs Guild Headquarters. Due to the unpredictable schedules of
adventurers, it was not uncommon to see them stay open well into the night. The reason for this visit was likely to
collect the remainder of [Black Flame]�fs reward for defending this city of Kotero from an Elder Dragon several
days earlier. The total sum was so sizable, the Guild had to pay it out in installments! It was a hot rumor around the
capitol, so Lilly knew of it as well.

Not long after, Kiressara had left the Guild�fs HQ and started walking along the dark streets. Her every step made
a heavy coin purse strapped to her waist jingle enticingly. Lilly determined that rumor she recalled earlier must have
been correct. And apparently, someone else had reached that same conclusion. A pickpocket was tailing Kiressara.

This made Lilly conflicted. Her orders said not to reveal herself to her target, or it would compromise the
investigation. She had already failed this twice - once during the trip from the Capital and a second time during an
incident at a secluded grotto on a nearby beach. A third time would probably get her fired or worse - reassigned to a
desk job!

Besides, Kiressara was an accomplished mage and adventurer. Surely this simple pickpocket had picked the wrong
target! That�fs when Lilly realized Kiressara was not armed tonight - she was wearing casual clothes and was not
carrying any sort of mana focusing tool! But, surely this pickpocket was not planning on fighting her! He was just
going to steal her money. Just money. His hand reached up to deprive the hero of the city of her well deserved
reward.

That very thought caused Lilly�fs body to move on her own and landed a swift kick on the back of the pickpocket's
head, knicking him out.

�gOoof!�h (Pickpocket)

�gKyaa! What? Who? Huh? Lilly?�h (Kiressara)

�g...�h (Lilly)

When she realized what she�fd done, she broke out in a cold sweat.

�g*Cough* Pickpocket. He was�c trying to rob you�c�h (Lilly)

Crap crap crap crap crap crap! She�fs going to be mad. She�fs going to realize I�fve been following her and
yell at me! I�fm going to be reported! The Director will fire me for sure! (Lilly)

She had already compromised her investigation twice. Once on the way from Runetap and once more in a little
secluded grotto at the nearby beach. This time she would not get off with a light warning!

While Lilly was busy panicking inside her head, Kiressara responded with a wide smile.

�gOh my! How careless of me! Thank you very much, Miss Inspector!�h (Kiressara)

This was a completely unexpected development! Lilly was stunned for a few moments. Then, she started thinking
about how she can play this off. A chance meeting was an unlikely, but plausible scenario!

�gAlso, thank you for always watching over me!�h (Kiressara)

Lilly�fs fears and anxiety immediately disappeared. In reality, she was not worried about her job, but whether or
not she would be hated by the person in front of her. Then this person replied she had accepted her constant
spying with a smile.

Indeed, the same thing had happened with Ellie during their first meeting. Lilly felt ashamed for assuming Kiressara
was going to instantly hate her.

�gDon�ft mention it. Seriously.�h (Lilly)

Well, there was still the matter of Lilly�fs position being at risk.

�gAh�c I see�c But, since we�fre already talking, can you at least accompany me to my house.�h (Kiressara)

�gUhm, that is, I should-�h (Lilly)

�gI would be ever so grateful!�h (Kiressara)

�gSure, I don�ft mind.�h (Lilly)

Lilly�fs words leapt out of her mouth before her brain could stop them. A combination of several things made it
hard to refuse such a request. Lilly quickly decided to stop worrying about the small stuff and just went with the
flow.

The two walked through the night streets, talking pleasantly about inconsequential things. �eThis is nice�f thought
Lilly. The nature of her profession meant she had very few friends, and she was glad being able to spend some time
like this. As they passed by a park, however, Kiressara made a suggestion.

�gDo you mind if we take a break here? I�fm feeling quite tired from earlier.�h (Kiressara)

�gOf course, Kiressara.�h (Lilly)

The red-haired girl smiled a little every time Lilly said her name. At this point, Lilly could be called an expert on
Kiressara-ology. She knew very few people actually called her by her first name. Her close friends and family
referred to her as �eRed�f or �eMom�f or �eKira�f while acquaintances stuck to calling her by her titles or
simply as �eMrs Quasse.�f

The simple fact that someone bothered to properly say her name made her a little happy. Lilly understood this, but
not why so few people bothered to do so. To Lilly, the name �eKiressara�f rolled pleasantly off the tongue, a
good name indeed. Therefore, she was happy to oblige with something this simple.

The two sat down on a bench. Kiressara, who was mentally exhausted after attempting to match wits with King
Frederick Ferseit, decided to stretch. She threw her hands up and archer her back. However, her bountiful bosom
strained against her buttoned-up red shirt. Lilly watched the scene with a bit of awe, unable to believe the garment
was holding out.

*Ping*

And indeed it didn�ft. A button popped off the shirt in question and flew off into the night, never to be seen again.

�gPfft!�h (Lilly)

The sudden development made Lilly laugh. Realizing it was rude, she had tried and failed to stifle it.

�gDang it! That�fs the third time this week!�h (Kiressara)

Perhaps set off by this small event, Kiressara�fs mood suddenly worsened.

�gGrrrr! That damn king! Either he�fs acting a fool or he�fs being way too good at what he does! Either way he
annoys the everliving daylights out of me! But I can't say anything! He's the king after all! Arrrgh! Where�fs Ellie
when I need her!�h (Kiressara)

Obviously stressed out by the barrage of recent events, Kiressara let loose a flood of complaints. Eventually she
calmed down a little. But as she did, she glanced at Lilly�fs cat ears. Since both moons were out, their ever-so-
slight light made those pure-white triangles stand out prominently against the almost black background.

Lilly did not fail to notice this. She had also noticed several such glances during their walk earlier. It was obvious
Kiressara longed to scratch those ears as a form of stress relief - it was something she often did with Ellie.

This is where Lilly�fs complicated circumstances got the better of her.

She had selfishly decided that the recent incident in which Kiressara�fs daughters, Sophie and Lara, had been
kidnapped was entirely her fault. In reality, there was nothing she could have done to prevent this from happening.
Both Kiressara and Ellie understood this. Only Lilly was blaming herself, and thus felt guilt whenever she was
treated kindly in return for her �efailure.�f

Then there was the desire to help out a friend in need. Supporting and comforting those she cared about is natural,
right? Not to mention that, on some level, she was deeply curious just how good Kiressara�fs technique was.
And so, the mix of curiosity and guilt had led her to suggest something rather outrageous..

�gIf�c if you want. You can t-t-touch my ears.�h (Lilly)

Thinking about it logically, the reply should have been an awkward refusal. But people were not always logical.

�gUhm�c I don�ft know�c it�fs kind of... �g (Kiressara)

The red-haired woman did not refuse her outright. Kiressara glanced around them several times before finally
coming to a surprising decision.

�gIf�c if you�fre fine with it�c�h (Kiressara)

It was a suggestion Lilly had made half-jokingly. However, that also meant it was half-serious. Seeing Kiressara�fs
rather hopeful expression, Lilly had made her own resolve.

�gG-g-go right ahead.�h (Lilly)

Kiressara raised her right hand. She slowly but steadily raised it toward the cat-folk woman who was sitting on her
right side. She gently put it on her head and began by stroking the base of her ears, near her scalp.

*Scritch scritch*

Bolts of pleasure immediately ran through Lilly�fs mind. This was not simply because cat-folk ears were so
sensitive, they were more or less considered to be erogenous zones. The one doing the scratching simply knew
where to aim for. Next, Kiressara slowly moved her fingers up and down, trailing the outside of those fuzzy
appendages.

*Prrrrrr*

Lilly let out a low purr while leaning slightly on Kiressara.

�gNfufufufu. As I suspected, your white fur is soft ~?!�h (Kiressara)

Kiressara herself seemed to enjoy the feeling of Lilly�fs ears between her fingers. She kept stroking them up and
down, left and right. And then, in a fit of playfulness, she lightly pinched the tip of the left one.

�gAaahn!�h (Lilly)

Lilly unwillingly let out a moan. The constant sensations coming from the top of her head seemed to be melting
away her reason. The heavy blush on her face was clearly visible under the snow-white fur.

�gHee hee hee.�h (Kiressara)

Kiressara, taking that moan as a sign of approval, let out a joyous laugh with a wide smile.

�gHaaah, haaah.�h (Lilly)

Lilly on the other hand couldn�ft steady her breathing. She was unwittingly focusing on Kiressara�fs pink, soft
and succulent lips. At that moment, Lilly�fs body moved without her permission for the second time tonight.

*Smooch*

She suddenly leaned in and stole a kiss from those very lips she was admiring. A short peck that made a wet sound.
In the next instant, Lilly began to realize what she had done. Surely, something like this would make her, the
inspector, a criminal! She immediately began to pull away and apologize.

�gI�fm! SO SOR-MMMMMWWUH?�h (Lilly)

But against her expectations, she was not rejected. Kiressara, who still had her hand on Lilly�fs head, had pushed
their faces together and returned the tiny kiss with a deeper, more vigorous one.

*Scritch scritch*

And during all of this, her fingers didn�ft stop even once. Lilly�fs newfound reason was once again melting away
under this double assault.

�gMMMmmmmmmmmmmnh ~?!�h (Lilly)

She moaned deeply without breaking the kiss. Her ears and her lips were both screaming in joy at the wonderful
sensations they were experiencing.

�gNNnnnn ~?!�h (Lilly)

Unable and unwilling to suppress them any longer, she let her moans leak out freely. Spurred on by her sensual
voice, Kiressara upgraded her two-pronged attack into an assault on three fronts. She slipped her left hand under
Lilly�fs standard issue inspector�fs uniform and began softly massaging Lilly�fs modest breasts. She quickly
pinpointed and pinched her erect nipple!

�gAAAhnn ~?!�h

Lilly let out yet another, much louder, lustful voice. The sudden attack on her chest made her involuntarily break the
lip-lock with Kiressara. That voice, however, attracted attention. One might say, the worst type of attention!

�gKira! I can�ft believe this! You promised!�h (Ellie)

Ellie. The wife. The mother. The psychopath. Someone who would casually break a man�fs bones just for being
rude to her wife inside his own head! Lilly�fs head was so full of pleasure, she barely even recognize this Rank A
threat to her very existence!

�gYou promised we�fd share!�h (Ellie)

Those extremely unlikely words made her snap momentarily out of her reverie. Many thoughts assaulted her all at
once, so much so that she couldn�ft even respond. Unconcerned with what�fs going on inside her head, Kiressara
spoke with a rather husky voice.

�gI�fm sorry Ellie ~?! She�fs just too cute ~?! I couldn�ft help it ~?!�h (Kiressara)

Hearing those words, Lilly�fs mind finally came up with a response.

�gWAaaaaah!�h (Lilly)

It was a scream. A weak scream of disbelief that did not know how to accept this reality. And yet, Kiressara�fs
teasing did not abate even once. Both Lilly�fs ears and nipples were toyed with mercilessly.

�gHaaaahn ~?! Pwease! Shtoop dish! Itsh wrooong!�h (Lilly)

Even though part of her mind protested on principle, the vast majority of her was thoroughly enjoying this. Her eyes
glazed over and her speech became slurred. Any thoughts of resistance were melted away. Lilly�fs body had
completely surrendered itself to pleasure.

�gIt�fs okay. As long as I get my share!�h (Ellie)

Kiressara had swiftly repositioned herself to embrace Lilly from behind. She reached over Lilly�fs shoulders and
pulled up the disheveled uniform, revealing Lilly�fs breasts. Kiressara�fs hands quickly settled onto the soft
mounds, massaging them intently. Then she began play-biting and nibbling on those soft cat ears.

�gYaaaahn ~?!�h (Lilly)

Lilly�fs voice kept rising in volume, clearly announcing to her surroundings just how good she felt. Her blissed-out
mind did not even register that Ellie had removed her trousers and exposed her lower half to the cool night air.

What it did register, however, were two arms spreading her legs into an M-shape and a warm breath on her special
place.

Looking down in a half-panicked, half-dazed state, she could barely make out a head of blue hair before she felt the
sudden intrusion of something soft and slimy.

�gEEEEH!? AAAHN ~?!�h (Lilly)

Ellie�fs tongue, much like Kiressara�fs fingers, had received plenty of practice. It was well versed in the
delicacies of a woman�fs body. It slithered and twisted, savoring the flavor of every fold, causing Lilly to thrash
around in response.

�gAUH! HYEH! HEAHHHN ~?!�h (Lilly)

This strange, new sensation elicited sporadic moans and non-words out of Lilly�fs throat. Her hands settled on
Ellie�fs head, unconsciously grinding her face deeper into Lilly�fs crotch.

�gHuhuhu, Lilly is such a naughty girl, isn�ft she?�h (Kiressara)

Kiressara lightly pointed out this obvious fact by whispering softly into her ear. This caused Lilly's shame to boil
over and she tried to close her legs in response. She involuntarily wrapped them around Ellie�fs head and
shoulders, trapping the blue-haired vixen between her thighs.

�gNOOOOO ~?! I�fM NOOT! SUCH A PERSHON! ITSH NOT LIKE THAAAAAAAT ~?!!�h

More and more obscene sounds mixed in with her lewd voice to create a chorus of debauchery.

�gOh my! You say these things, but Lilly�fs body sure is honest ~?! You�fre a mess down there you know ~?!
�h (Kiressara)

With every last one of her weak points expertly targeted and supremely toyed with, these scandalous words made
Lilly�fs shame overflow.

�gMNNNH! SHTOOP ~?! MY HEAD ISH! AHHNN ~?! BECOMING SHTRAAANGE ~?!�h (Lilly)

She, a government official, was about to release her mounting desire in this public place while being attended to by
two beautiful, married women! That scandalous thought pushed her over the edge.

�gSHOMETHING ISH! COM- IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNGGGGG!�h (Lilly)

Bolts of pleasure ran through her spine, her back arched involuntarily and her tongue lolled out of her mouth. This
was the strongest climax Lilly had ever experienced.

�gAUGH HUAAAAAH AAAAAAAAAHHAAAAAHNN!�h (Lilly)

Her voice rolled across the night sky like an avalanche while her body shook and spasmed from the waves of
pleasure. Her limbs seized up, forcing Ellie to take her squirting love juices at point blank. After riding out her
orgasm for what seemed like hours, she weakly collapsed into Kiressara's embrace in a pitiful state.

�gHaaah, haaah, haaah�h (Lilly)

Her breath still ragged from that earth-shattering experience, she became dimly aware of the soft feeling on her back
and the two hard points pressing against it. Kiressara, who had freed her own cavernous cleavage, whispered in a
voice dripping with passion.

�gA slutty girl like you won't be satisfied with just once, right? Well then, let�fs continue with round two ~?!�h
(Kiressara)

Still basking in the afterglow, Lilly�fs vacant eyes thoughtlessly turned to Ellie. She gazed at that slender figure
while she quickly removed her stained clothes. Her fair skin and pink nipples seemed to glisten unnaturally under
the moonlight.

Now completely naked, Ellie smiled mischievously. She held up a certain thing as she resumed her previous
position. It had a very distinctive, almost mushroom-like shape. She lightly rubbed the tip of it against Lilly's lower
lips, covering it with her transparent fluids.

"Yahhnn! Noooo!" (Lilly)

Lilly weakly protested, but she was completely ignored. The special tool spread her wide as it was slowly pushed in.
Lilly gasped as waves of pleasure once again sent her body into overdrive, involuntarily clenching at the foreign
object inside her. It kept invading deeper and deeper, until it hit something. That's when it was plunged forward all
at once, robbing Lilly of her-

�gGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!�h (Lilly)

Inspector Lilly Alasandara screamed as she bolted upright. Her eyes darted rapidly around the room.

�gHaah, haah, haah, haah.�h (Lilly)

Her breathing still ragged from that intense experience, it took her a few moments to recognize this room. It was the
inn room she paid for. In Runetap.

�gNOOOOOO! Why does it have to be thaaat!?�h (Lilly)

Finally realizing the truth of the matter, she grabbed her head and thrashed around. The extremely vivid memories of
that dream were unlikely to ever fade away. It was partly her own fault for being almost too good at her job.
Though, technically, that job didn't include her spying on that, making it entirely her own fault.

Just then, Lilly felt an unfortunate sensation. One that filled her with dread. She timidly lifted her covers and looked
down at herself.

Her sheets had a very damp spot.

�gAAARGH! It can�ft believe it happened again! I am never going back to that place! Ever!�h (Lilly)

However, despite her current protests, this would be neither the first nor the last time she would enter the infamous
Vestiges of the Empire with the express purpose of ordering a Forbidden Flavor chocolate souffle. To go, of course.
Chapter 95 - Always bounce your ideas off others, a second opinion can
be invaluable - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Author's note: Allow me to explain a few things about the previous side-story chapter.

First - it was a one-time thing. I feel that, while enjoyable, this sort of content doesn't really add anything to a story,
so I will not be adding any more explicit smut in this fic.

Second - it actually took a lot of effort to get that just right. I had to rewrite it several times before I was happy with
it. I could've put out 2-3 more chapters if I didn't spend so much time on that, but wanted to challenge myself.

Third - I'm glad you people enjoyed it. Despite what I just said, I do feel like writing some more about our girls and
their sexcapades.

Therefore, I'm considering starting a kind of a spin-off/supplementary series called Binary Soul: After Dark
(tentative name) where I will post the hot & heavy scenes that happen off-screen, so to speak. I haven't decided if I
will actually do it yet because, like I said, it does take time to write those.

Act seven - The Price of Progress

> Kira PoV <

{Sorry to interrupt, but it looks like the dwarven delegation is just about ready with their preparations.}

Took them long enough. They�fve been gathering a lot of cargo ever since I agreed to bring them along on our
little flying homestead. Well, it�fs not flying right now though. Otherwise it would be really annoying to carry
everything with magic.

�gHow much luggage are they planning to bring along?�h (Kira)

{60 containers in total.}

�gThat seems like a lot of luggage for only three dwarves. Don�ft tell me all of it is ale!�h (Kira)

{Not all of it. The senators said they wanted to show off their country�fs products to King Fred so they can smooth
along negotiations, so they�fre bringing a lot of samples.}

�gThere�fs nothing dangerous in there, right?�h (Kira)

Call me paranoid, but I�fm a bit wary about bringing more unidentified boxes that could potentially explode into
my home. And these meat-heads are bound to have things like that.

{Good question. I�fll ask them to prepare a manifest. We�fre in no rush just yet, though.}

�gWhat do you mean no rush?!�h (Kira)

I want to get out of here right away! That titan of theirs may be reasonable, but a gathering of dwarves this big is bad
for me. I just can�ft deal with their type. At least Kelly tries to behave properly and only gets really drunk in places
where it�fs okay to be drunk. Like bars. Not a house with impressionable children around!

�gKira. Cuddle time is important.�h (Ellie)

As if to prove her point, Ellie snuggles up closer and gives me a kiss on neck. My worries instantly disappeared
somewhere as I focus my entire being on that ticklish sensation!

�gHehehe. That�fs right! As if anything�fs more important than my Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

I adjust my position on the bed so I can properly embrace her, then plant a long kiss on her lips.

�gMmmmmmmnnnnn�c�h (Kira)

Haaaah, much better! On second thought, I�fm actually glad those people are taking their sweet time. Thanks to
that, Ellie and I finally had the chance to thoroughly enjoy ourselves. And each other. We haven�ft had much
opportunity this past month and it�fs been a really stressful one, too!

Even on the way over here I was preoccupied with Kelly�fs condition so I couldn�ft relax. And then we over-used
[Unity] yesterday and were completely exhausted! Not to mention the crushing loneliness of the separation was
amplified! I barely held it together in front of that titan before we could take advantage of this opportunity!

And did we ever! We�fve been doing it almost constantly for over four hours now! I still haven�ft had enough
though, though!

Ellie�fs face flushes again as I begin stroking her lovely body. Naked cuddles really are the best cuddles! We stare
into each other�fs eyes, confirming our desires.

�gK-Kira�c�h (Ellie)

�gPlease spoil me lots more ~?!�h (Kira)

�gOkay! I�fll keep going until Kira is completely satisfied!�h (Ellie)

She understands my needs completely! Ellie really is too perfect for me ~?!

***

I walk out of the tower with Ellie in tow and walk over to the gate in the wall. Well, it�fs really just a section of the
wall that has been moved out of the way. We didn�ft really need a gate out in the middle of the forest, so Nano
opened a gap for this occasion.

The ground beyond the gate is on the same level as our own. We had to get Umph�fs assistance in landing it. He
made a bowl-shaped crater in the rocky ground so that we can set it down nicely. Otherwise it might tip over or the
enchanted ground could crumble under the tower�fs weight.

All things considered, it�fs a surprisingly good fit, I think I underestimated that guy!

Nano already as a plan to reshape and reinforce the flying ground at the base of the tower, making it better-suited for
landing on flat surfaces. We do intend to use this as a mobile base in the future, so at least this much is necessary.
Just need to be careful about the weight - there�fs only so much the enchanted ground can withstand. I�fll have to
re-confirm the details on the way back.

I approach the trio of dwarves who will be traveling with us. First is Brand - Kelly's older brother. He's mostly here
on my personal request. We will borrow his expertise in raising gryphons. We haven't even hatched the eggs since
we didn't have the opportunity to prepare for them.

Also, since he and Kelly have experience with both Ferseit and Ecebis cultures, they'll be acting as mediators and
smoothing between King Fred and the other delegates.

Speaking of which, the second one here is Senator Goldrim. He's an older dwarf with graying hair and beard. I'm
told he's well versed in domestic affairs and is quite skilled in several trades like blacksmithing, engineering and
alchemy.

Third is Senator Rimgold (no relation). He looks as old as Goldrim, but he's considerably thicker in the arms. He'll
be tagging along as a military and logistics consultant. While Brand may be a Major, he's ultimately a field
commander and strategist - neither of which will be particularly useful.

�gGood day Major, Senators.�h (Kira)

I greet them in a rather official manner almost instinctively. Knowing how dwarves think, it's probably unnecessary.

�gGood to see you, Kiressara.�h (Brand)

Oh wow, he actually said it! I'm a bit flattered!

�gGreetings Mrs Quasse. It is good to see your complexion has improved.�h (Goldrim)

�gIndeed, you seem to be positively glowing when compared to when we saw you this morning.�h (Rimgold)

Ah, I�fve been beaming a smile without realizing it! Well, Ellie did comfort me with extra zeal well into the late
afternoon, so I guess that much is expected.

�gYou seem to be doing much better yourselves.�h (Kira)

They did spend literally all night planning their country�fs reforms. Well, planning isn�ft the right word.

Apparently they�fve already had a number of laws prepared for opening the country�fs borders, so last night was
mostly just a review session. These two will be the representatives to the Kingdom of Ferseit and are particularly
eager to see the outside world. We�fre giving them a lift since they did take good care of Kelly in our absence.
Speaking of which...

�gIs the manifest I requested ready?�h (Kira)

�gMajor, if you would.�h (Goldrim)

Brand stepped forward and handed me a document. I accept it with my left hand and look it over while confirming
the details with the senators.

�gThank you.�h (Kira)

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Two (2) crates of Steel ingots.
Two (2) crates of Mithril ingots.
Two (2) crates of Titansteel ingots.
Two (2) crates of Copper ingots.
Two (2) crates of Bronze ingots.
Two (2) crates of Adamantium ingots.
Two (2) crates of Orichalcum ingots.
Two (2) crates of Gold ingots.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
�gWhy so much metal?�h (Kira)

�gKelly Darkhand explained that the metals she saw here were of a higher standard than those on the surface, so
you see.�h (Rimgold)

Admittedly, I don�ft know barely anything about metallurgy and the exact amounts aren�ft written down, but it
seems like a lot. Also, I�fve never even heard of Titansteel before. I can make a guess where it came from, though.

�gHalf of it is for the King to have his own people verify the quality and purity. We plan on exporting the metals
and maybe using our refining methods as bargaining chips.�h (Goldrim)

�gWhat about the other half?�h (Kira)

�gA gift to your friend Nano.�h (Goldrim)

�gEven the gold?�h (Kira)

�gYes, we offered coin but this Nano insisted on ingots. Something about using it for experiments.�h (Goldrim)

I see. Nano does like to experiment with materials. Nano�fs especially interested since some of these don�ft exist
in Ellie�fs old world. I turn my attention back to the next section of the list.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
One (1) crate of Legion-standard plate armor (dwarf-sized).
One (1) crate of Legion-standard plate armor (human-sized).
One (1) crate of Legion-standard greatshields.
One (1) crate of Legion-standard swords.
One (1) crate of Legion-standard warhammers.
One (1) crate of Legion-standard maces.
One (1) crate of Legion-standard staves.
One (1) crate of Legion-standard spears.
One (1) crate of Legion-standard axes.
One (1) crate of Legion-standard crossbows and crossbow bolts.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Arms and armor used by the country�fs soldiers, huh?

I look at the pile of crates stacked nearby. Those containing the arms and armor are marked the insignia of the
dwarven legions - an overlapping sword and shield, surrounded by a circle. They�fre all rather small, looks like
they�fre focusing on variety rather than volume with these. Well, those are fine to bring along as samples.

The next item, however, is not.

�gOne crate of Legion-standard legionnaires? Are you insane? You�fre planning to pack actual legionnaires in a
crate?!�h (Kira)

�gWe are planning nothing of the sort. The packing�fs already done, see?�h (Rimgold)

He points at the rather large wooden crate, also stamped with the Legion insignia. It�fs about the size of Nano�fs
boxes from half a year ago, only a bit wider. It�fs also shaking slightly.

�gIt�fs more efficient if they spend the trip like that.�h (Rimgold)

�gYou people realize this trip will take around 9 days, right?�h (Kira)
The three dwarves stare at me in shock.

�gBut�c Kelly said we�fd be there in a day, two at most!�h (Brand)

�gWas she drunk when she said that?�h (Kira)

�gYes, but�c I thought�c Oh�c Whoops.�h (Brand)

�gWhy are they even in a crate to begin with!? Get those poor souls out of there!�h (Kira)

�gNow that she mentions it, what was the point of boxing them up like that in the first place?�h (Goldrim)

Goldrim stares inquisitively at his colleague. I'm giving him a highly questioning look myself.

�g *Cough* Uhm, Major, would you mind letting the legionnaires out of the box?�h (Rimgold)

�gHuh? But it took so much effort to stuff the boys-�h (Brand)

�gNow!�h (Rimgold)

�gYes, senator!�h (Brand)

Brand runs off in a panic and opens the crate. About a dozen fully-armed dwarves stumble out of it. What sort of
moron literally packs an army to go!? No, actually, I have that sort of moron right in front of me, so let�fs ask him
directly!

�gWhat were you thinking!? Those are living beings! You can�ft just stuff them in a box like that!�h (Kira)

�gI apologize, Mrs Quasse. It seemed like a good idea at the time...�h (Rimgold)

�gBut why do you even need those people?�h (Kira)

We guaranteed their safety under the authority of King Frederick Ferseit, so they shouldn�ft need guards while
visiting the capital.

�gWe wanted to show off- I mean, demonstrate our shield wall formations.�h (Rimgold)

He clearly said �eshow off�f just now.

�gDenied. They can take the land route.�h (Kira)

�gBut Mrs Quasse, surely you must-�h (Rimgold)

�gAh! Excuse me there senator! The thing is- *whisper whisper whisper*�h (Brand)

Brand came back suddenly and stopped Rimgold�fs protests by pulling him away from us. They kept whispering
about something while throwing sideways glances to my right. I turn my head out of curiosity, but nothing's there
other than Ellie. She�fs hugging my right arm while staring dreamily at me. She�fs a bit clingier than normal, but
other than that she�fs the same as ever, right?

Come to think of it, isn�ft it about time for her heat to flare up again? That intense session earlier probably started
it early�c Well at least her heat these days isn�ft as intense as that first one. It also only lasts a for a few
days. Honestly, seeing her being extra affectionate like this is good in its own way! I smile back at her while looking
forward to tonight!

�gI understand how you feel Mrs Quasse. We will be sending them over the lang route.�h (Rimgold)

Rimgold�fs words snap me out of my thoughts. I�fll just have to continue my Ellie appreciation later.

�gI don�ft see much point in wasting their time with the regular route when-�h (Goldrim)

�gActually, it will be good training for them since we plan to have the Legions patrol the area around Ecebis to
make it safe for travelers and merchants.�h (Brand)

�gBut still, that seems like a waste�c�h (Goldrim)

�gI�fll explain later, Goldrim. Just trust me on this one.�h (Rimgold)

�gAlright, if you insist. You understand the military better than I do, anyway.�h (Goldrim)

That�fs good, looks like we can leisurely enjoy my trip back. For the most part, anyway. I turn my attention back
to the list.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Three (3) crates of Legion-standard metal tools.
Three (3) crates of Legion-standard healing salves.
Fifteen (15) barrels of Ecebis Ale.
Three (3) crates of Magic Stones.
Three (3) crates of Blast Powder.
One (1) chest of precious gemstones.
One (1) chest of magical gemstones.
One (1) chest of jewel-encrusted golden accessories.
One (1) chest of decorative swords.
One (1) chest of commemorative Ecebis mugs.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

That last one is a bit�c I mean I guess that and the barrels of ale are a given. The rest look more like gifts. Although
there is one thing that I don�ft recognize.

�gSo�c what�fs Blast Powder?�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs something one of the Darkhands brought into the country. The actual manufacturing process is a state
secret, but it�fs an interesting material that�fs a combination of-�h (Goldrim)

�gDoes it explode?�h (Kira)

�gWell yes, that is its main function.�h (Goldrim)

I knew it.
Chapter 96 - People who are full of themselves rarely realize that fact -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gSo we will NOT be bringing the Blast Powder onto MY flying tower. Do I make myself clear?�h (Kira)

�gHiiiiiiii! Yes!�h (Goldrim)

�gGood.�h (Kira)

It wasted 20 minutes of my life arguing about it with this guy! He kept insisting it was safe and wouldn�ft explode
on its own. The last time I trusted a dwarf who said that, I almost got skewered by my own magic ice because the
thing that wouldn't explode did in fact explode!

Ultimately though, it doesn�ft matter what the truth is! My house - my rules! I don�ft know why this guy refused
to accept it! Honestly, if Ellie didn�ft pin him to the ground and hold with a knife to his throat we�fd still be
arguing about this! Oh, right.

�gYou can let go of him now.�h (Kira)

�gOkay Kira!�h (Ellie)

Ellie cheerfully lets go of the old dwarf�fs limbs, and bounces back to my side, once more embracing my arm.
It�fs a bit regretful she�fs wearing her armor, there�fs no pleasantly soft and warm feeling like when we�fre
naked�c

Oops. Goldrim is in a fetal position on the ground, hugging his knees and muttering something while gently shaking.
I think we might have traumatized him. His ego took a really big hit when Ellie shaved off half of his long beard
with one swing of her sword.

�gThat�fs why I tried to warn you...�h (Brand)

�gHang in there, Goldrim! Stay with me!�h (Rimgold)

Brand and Rimgold are comforting him, he really is rather pitiful right now. That�fs why I normally hate using
force like this. I almost feel bad for Goldrim. Almost, though. I�fve had it with these stubborn dwarves!

Alright! Let�fs depart immediately so I can get back to cuddling with my wifey ~?!

�gNano, bring the remaining 56 crates, chests and barrels up to our storeroom. Should be enough room in there.
After that we�fll be leaving.�h (Kira)

{On it.}

�gHow�fs Kelly?�h (Kira)

{Still sleeping.}

Well it�fs to be expected. She�fs been fighting for days on 3-4 hours of sleep. I�fm amazed she had the strength
to keep celebrating as long as she did.
�gKiressara, what�fs that noise?�h (Brand)

�gHmm? What noise?�h (Kira)

�gThat scraping, almost grinding noise. Don�ft you hear it? It almost sounds like- Watch out! Spiders incoming!
�h (Brand)

He draws his sword and moves to stand between me and- Oh, whoops! I forgot to mention those!

�gRelax! Those are Nano�fs golems! They�fre here to do the heavy lifting! They're completely harmless.�h
(Kira)

They started swarming out of the �egate�f just now. Brand was surprised because he hadn't seen them yet. I can't
blame him, I had a similar reaction the first time I saw them, too. Right now, though, I'm so used to them and the
noise they make that I didn�ft realize what he was talking about sooner.

�gTh-that so?�h (Brand)

�gSure. Look, they�fre just picking up the boxes and bringing them inside, right?�h (Kira)

�gHow extraordinary! Such a dexterous six-legged walk and coordination between them! Mrs Quasse-�h
(Rimgold)

�gNo, you may not use Nano as a weapon.�h (Ellie)

Ellie shoots him down with an icy cold stare. What's with this sudden weapon talk? Ah, she said the King was
thinking about weaponizing things all the time, too. Maybe it�fs a common thing for people in charge?

�gAck! But I was only trying to suggest-�h (Rimgold)

�gNo. You were about to lie to Kira.�h (Ellie)

�gApologize! Apologize right now if you value your health!�h (Brand)

Oh, I see! Kelly probably warned Brand about Ellie's tendencies and now he�fs passing it along to his superiors.

�gI understand. I apologize for trying to say such-�h (Rimgold)

�gYou�fre not being very sincere.�h (Ellie)

Ellie�fs voice is almost literally dripping with blood by now. Looks like he was still planning on doing something.

�gShall I educate your bones on matters of honesty!?�h (Ellie)

She takes a few steps forward and meaningfully cracks her knuckles.

Rimgold realizes he�fs not fooling anyone and his face becomes as white as his beard. He drops on all fours and
grovels in front of Ellie who was still approaching him.

�gPlease! No! I won�ft lie again! I swear on my honor as a Senator of Ecebis! I swear, so please don�ft hurt me!
�h (Rimgold)

He�fs literally banging his head on the ground while begging for forgiveness. Looks like he may actually be
serious this time.
�gThat�fs better. Make sure you don�ft break that vow. Or I will break you.�h (Ellie)

Even I�fm a bit scared at how good her acting is. Yes, acting. Ellie isn�ft actually that vicious, but such acting is
important when dealing with people who don�ft know any better. It's really effective since she's normally rather
quiet.

�gYes! I understand! I�fm sorry! Thank you! I�fm sorry!�h (Rimgold)

I said it�fs acting, okay? There�fs no way my sweet, caring Ellie is a psychopath like everyone says, you know?
They were all just fooled by her masterful acting, that�fs all there is to it! Poor Ellie sure is misunderstood! And I
thought it�fs impossible to be too good at something, but that acting of hers really is something else!

�gNano, why is Kira nodding all on her own with a cramped smile?�h (Ellie)

{Don�ft worry about it, she�fs just reinforcing her denial about something.}

Hmm? Denial? What�fs that? Is it tasty?

�gAlright! Enough of that! Everyone get inside! We�fre leaving soon!�h (Kira)

�gUmm, I have to notify the Steelmother we�fre leaving. She said she wanted to see you off, but...�h (Brand)

�gOh for the love of- Just go already!�h (Kira)

�gYes ma�fam!�h (Brand)

He saluted me and ran off like his life depended on it.

We may have overdone it a little.

***

Draglael looks down at me from her huge height. We�fre still in the same spot where the crates and two senators
were. All of those are already inside.

�gSo, you really are just leaving like that? Good. Go break someone else�fs mountain.�h (Draglael)

�gYou said you liked the skylight!�h (Kira)

�gSure. Didn�ft appreciate someone looney bird breaking it without my permission though. Now then, off you
go!�h (Draglael)

Brand said she wanted to see us off. Turns out she wanted to see us leave with her own eyes, just to be sure. Can�ft
say I fault her. Wouldn�ft want to wake up and spot a giant crack in my roof either.

Either way, she ended up bringing the entire Senate with her. Not sure why these people are here. Speaking of those
legionnaires, the lot of them are still binge-drinking.

�gWhere�fs Umph?�h (Kira)

�gAh? That guy�fs still running some errands for me. You wanna see him?�h (Draglael)

�gYes. I do need to speak with him. It�fs really important.�h (Kira)

I should�fve done this sooner, but somehow didn�ft find the right moment to bring the topic up.

�gRight. I�fll call him over.�h (Draglael)

She inhales deeply. I plug my ears in response. Ellie, Brand and the dwarven senators follow my example.

�gYO UMPH! CRAZY LADY WANTS A WORD!�h (Draglael)

Draglael shouted with a voice so loud, it felt like it was rattling my very bones. Plugging my ears made no
difference.

Ow.

I�fve been thinking about this, but what is it with titans and yelling? Surely there are better ways of talking with
each other than shouting all the time!

Umph glides in from somewhere after a short while. He lands in front of us and bows his head slightly.

�gGreetings Daughtah of de Stahs. It is a shame to see you leave so early.�h (Umph)

�gWe�fre going to be very busy soon so we can�ft waste time here. I do have something important to talk to you
about, though.�h (Kira)

�gI believe I know what you are going to ask for.�h (Umph)

That�fs good! This will make thing faster.

�gI am sorry, but I cannot accompany you any further.�h (Umph)

�g... What?�h (Kira)

I let out a stupid voice since I couldn�ft comprehend what he said.

�gI have a lot of things I wish to do. I am sorry, but I cannot repay my debt to you right now. Should Fate allow it,
let us meet once again!�h (Umph)

Debt? Fate? I think that�fs a bit...

�gYou know-�h (Kira)

�gPlease do not try to persuade me. I have steeled my heart and my soul, but I am afraid dis companionship is at an
end, Daughtahs of de Stahs.�h (Umph)

He gives off what seems to be a solemn vibe. So he�fs already prepared himself for a tear-filled separation? Too
bad, because I have other plans!

�gUmph. One thing. I want to ask just one thing.�h (Kira)

�gDen ask. I shall answer if it is within my power!�h (Umph)

He nods his head with a grand movement. Well, at least I have his attention. Time to make my case!
�gWhat in the name of fried bacon are you talking about?�h (Kira)

�g... Huh?�h (Umph)

�gWho cares about you and your so-called companionship? You�fve been nothing but trouble since the day you
arrived! We almost lost Kelly because of you and your silly little rituals! Do you know how much work I have
waiting for me back at the Capital!?�h (Kira)

"Wha- But... I thought..." (Umph)

As I thought, he has no idea just how many headaches he�fs cost me. No, how many he�fs continuing to cost me!
Yet he just sits there with a stupid look on his face! I think. It�fs an eagle head after all, so reading faces is a bit
tricky. But knowing this moron that�fs definitely the kind of eagle face he�fs making!

�gWell? Something to say?�h (KIra)

�g�c S-Sorry?�h (Umph)

�gDamn right you�fre sorry! Now give me back my Flight Badge you freeloading birdbrain!�h (Kira)

I point to the yellow shield-like badge on his chest. If I let this guy fly around with that, it could cause wars! Getting
fired would be the least of my worries!

�gDis? Uh? I�fm- How do you take it off?�h (Umph)

He nudges it a few times with his beak, unable to figure it out. Well, thankfully I have a very handy assistant with
me.

�gEllie, if you would.�h (Kira)

�gSure. Stand still a minute Umph.�h (Ellie)

Ellie walks over and grabs the Flight Badge. Good, looks like she�fs about ready to remove it.

�gSay when!�h (Ellie)

�gWhat do you mean �ewhen-�f GGGGGGAAAAAAAAAAAAH!�h (Umph)

Ellie pulled on it with a sharp motion. It was pinned to his plumage, so a few ice-like feathers got plucked out.
Looks like it stung quite a bit, he's rolling around on the ground. She turns to face me and triumphantly raises her
prize over her head.

�gGot it, Kira!�h (Ellie)

�gGood work, Ellie. Bring it inside and put it with the rest, would you?�h (Kira)

Ellie walks towards the tower behind me with a glint in her eye. I think she was looking forward to doing that.

�gNow! As for you!�h (Kira)

�gGah! Kuh!�h (Umph)

He�fs still rolling around on the ground. I hope it hurts. Although this can�ft even begin to compare to the pain he
put Kelly through while he just sat there and slept!
�gListen to me when I�fm talking to you, moron!�h (Kira)

�gGah! Yes! I�fm listening Daught-�h (Umph)

�gI said listen!�h (Kira)

�g... !�h (Umph)

Good, I finally have his attention. I point my staff at him and light a small magical flame at its tip. Just to make sure
my point gets across.

�gYou will stay away from me, my family, my friends, and my home! If I even catch so much as a glimmer of you
back in Ferseit, I will melt you until you become a puddle and then boil that puddle until it becomes nothing.�h
(Kira)

�gUh, ma�fam. You realize his body is basically flesh and blood instead of ice, yes?�h (Brand)

�gI am well aware of that, Major.�h (Kira)

I answered Brand's question without averting my gaze from Umph. It�fs really convenient he�fs actually
immortal. That means no matter what I hit him with he won�ft die, so I�fll be sure to really let him have it if I
need to.

�g... Yes ma�fam.�h (Brand)

�gAs I was saying. The only reason I�fm not doing that right now, is because you were nice enough to make a
landing spot for us. I gave you that body, and I will take it away if we ever meet again. This is not a threat. This is a
promise.�h (Kira)

I don�ft even wait for his response. I just turn around and start walking back in silence. Brand follows after me
immediately.

�gWhat�c just happened?�h (Umph)

�gYou got dumped, mate.�h (Draglael)

I graciously ignore whatever�fs going on behind me and step into the tower. We have a long flight ahead of us.
Chapter 97 - No matter how rare something is, it's worthless unless it's
put to use - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gUuugh. Hey, Red!�h (Kelly)

Kelly walks down to the first floor while groaning and calls out to me from the dining room. I step out of the kitchen
to greet her.

�gOh, finally up, Kelly? I was starting to wonder if you�fll ever wake up.�h (Kira)

She looks absolutely terrible. That drinking spree of hers was a bit too much as expected.

�gPlease tell me you have-�h (Kelly)

�gIn there.�h (Kira)

I point to one of the cabinets on the wall. She groggily walks over to it and looks inside. She takes a small vial of
clear liquid that looks like water, but smells like old cabbage and drinks it in one go. Her complexion almost
instantly gets better.

As usual, Picorio�fs elixirs are effective, although they cost quite a bit. I questioned the need for hangover
medicine at first, but it seems that man knows his clients.

�gThanks for that. How long was I out?�h (Kelly)

�gPretty much all day. It�fs almost dinner time.�h (Kira)

�gI see. Dinner sounds good about-�h (Kelly)

�gHmm? What�fs wrong Kelly?�h (Kira)

She's staring at me with fearful eyes. Did she just remember something unpleasant?

�gRed�c why were you in the kitchen wearing an apron?�h (Kelly)

�gWhy I�fm cooking of course!�h (Kira)

Her expression becomes downright desperate. I should probably explain.

�gRelax, I�fm just practicing. Nano�fs preparing the actual meal, so don�ft worry about it.�h (Kira)

�gOh thank the Steelmother. Don�ft scare me like that!�h (Kelly)

�gI understand your feelings, but�c openly saying things like that still hurts�c�h (Kira)

�gSorry, Red.�h (Kelly)

I�fm not going to pretend my cooking is any good. I�fve been practicing every chance I get, but there hasn�ft
been much progress. I�fm doing the same things Nano is, yet it tastes and looks completely different. And while
other people tell me it tastes horrible, it�fs just tastes �eokay�f at worst to me!
�gAunty Kelly! Hey Big Sis, she�fs up! She�fs up!�h (Sophie)

�gAuntyyyy! I�fm so glad you�fre okaaay!�h (Lara)

�gOooof!�h (Kelly)

The girls barge into the room from outside and pretty much tackle-hug Kelly. Thanks to Kelly�fs alcohol-induced
coma they haven�ft had a chance to properly welcome her back yet. She gives them a double bearhug in response.

�gHey you two! I missed you so much!�h (Kelly)

�gWe missed you loads too, Aunty!�h (Lara)

�g... does it hurt?�h (Sophie)

Sophie who was hugged by the mithril arm gives it a worried poke.

�gNope. It feels just like my old arm. Only shinier, I guess?�h (Kelly)

�gLet me touch it too! Waah! It�fs hard, but it�fs still warm! Mom said it was made of metal, but how come
it�fs like this?�h (Lara)

�gNo idea. It looks cool though, right?�h (Kelly)

Kelly starts showing off for the girls. She really is rather cheery about everything, all things considered. Probably
related to those chains she mentioned yesterday. I�fll be sure to have a proper sit-down with her at some point - she
still owes me that explanation.

�gAlright everyone, dinner�fs about to be served so take your seats.�h (Nano/Butler)

Nano�fs butler golem calls out to us from the kitchen and we move to the dining table. Another butler golem has
already prepared all the plates. I keep telling Nano I can do at least that much, but it seems I�fm not even trusted
with the plates when it comes to food these days�c.

�gHmm? Aren�ft there a lot of plates on the table?�h (Kelly)

�gThose are for our visitors. The dwarven delegation to Ferseit.�h (Kira)

�gDelegation? Ferseit? What?�h (Kelly)

Oh right. She was asleep for most of today. I bet she hasn�ft even realized we�fve already left Ecebis a while
ago�c

***

�gOhhhhhh!�h (Everyone)

*Clap clap clap clap*

I was just finishing my morning training with Ellie when the dwarves and the kids started applauding. When did
they even get here!?

�gThat was spectacular!�h (Goldrim)

�gI know, right? When our moms move together like that it�fs really great!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! They�fre so graceful and pretty!�h (Sophie)

�gAnd you say they do this every day? What would the point of this training be?�h (Rimgold)

�gThose two just do weird stuff all the time. Don't let it bother you.�h (Kelly)

�gStill, it's my first time seeing movements like that. They definitely seem closer to dancing than training.�h
(Brand)

Maybe to you! It�fs actually quite difficult to make those movements properly! My chest especially is a problem! It
keeps throwing me off balance even though it�fs bound as tight as I can bind it right now! Ellie said overcoming it
would only make me stronger in the end so I just have to tough it out.

�gKira is getting better every day! Soon you�fll conquer this and move onto the sword forms!�h (Ellie)

�gIs that really okay, though? I don�ft know anything about swordfighting.�h (Kira)

�gThe sword is there just as a tool and an anchor. The movements are what�fs important.�h (Ellie)

�gHmm, I guess that�fs true.�h (Kira)

I don�ft really get it, but Nano says as long as I can concentrate on controlling my body rather than my magic,
it�fll make it easier to use Ellie�fs magic during [Unity]. I haven�ft noticed any improvement myself, but if Ellie
says I'm getting better then it�fs not just empty praise. She's quite strict as an instructor.

Since she�fs the wife.

�gAnyway, you girls head inside and eat your breakfast. Ellie go with them and make sure they don�ft try to wash
the dishes again.�h (Kira)

They tried that yesterday night. Said they wanted to help while we were busy talking about this and that with the
delegates. I appreciate the thought, but we now have three plates less. Quality porcelain isn�ft cheap- I mean, what
am I going to do if they hurt themselves!?

I watch the three of them head off into the tower. I sit down on the ground and catch my breath. These exercises are
exhausting as ever.

�gKwaaaaa!�h (Shull)

�gAh right. Excuse me, I think it�fs time to change Shull�fs bandages.�h (Brand)

Brand walks off to attend to his gryphon. We brought it along because Brand said it would chase after him anyway
if he left it behind, and with those wounds it has it really would be a terrible idea. I�fm honestly amazed it survived
after taking that huge hit from the spider thing. Just how durable are gryphons, I wonder?

�gSay Red. How does this rock stay in the air, anyway?�h (Kelly)

�gI�fm also curious about that, if you don�ft mind my asking.�h (Goldrim)

Oh good. It seems Goldrim has recovered from Ellie's acting. Looks like he�fs back on his feet after a drink and a
good night�fs sleep.
�gWe have a special sphere-shaped Magic Stone buried at the base of the tower. It�fs about 3 meters in diameter
and releases the [Flight] spell into the surrounding ground.�h (Kira)

�gAnd how do you control it?�h (Goldrim)

�gWith a magic tool. It�fs like a desk with two rods sticking out of it. Grabbing hold of these rods and channeling
mana into them lets you control the spell.�h (Kira)

�gHuh? But neither you nor Ellie are steering it right now?�h (Kelly)

�gWell yeah, once it has a direction the spell just keeps going. I do have to take control for landing and taking off
though.�h (Kira)

A smooth landing would be extremely difficult without guidance from Nano, though. I can�ft see where I�fm
going, after all. I�fll have to ask Olboun how Runetap does it every year.

�gFascinating. Does all of Ferseit utilize this mode of transportation?�h (Goldrim)

�gNo, not quite. Not everyone can get permission to use these Magic Stones. Usually only the lord of a city is
allowed access to them. And even then they�fll probably choose to use a city-wide Barrier in case they get
attacked.�h (Kira)

�gI see. That does sound more practical. What of the mana requirement? I imagine it�fs rather hefty.�h
(Goldrim)

�gNormally it accumulates residual mana over time, but Ellie and I charge our Magic Stone directly through a hole
in the basement. As long as we do that regularly, it can fly indefinitely. It can even keep going for about 5-6 days in
case we�fre not here.�h (Kira)

�gIs it really that efficient? I was under the impression the [Flight] spell had a hefty mana cost.�h (Rimgold)

�gYeah, you said Runetap could only float once a year and only for a day, so what gives?�h (Kelly)

�gWait, that Runetap? That huge city you were telling us about? It can fly!? And more importantly, you�fre
telling me this woman is using magic of that magnitude so casually?!�h (Rimgold)

�gNow, now, calm down Rimgold. If you think about it calmly, the scale is completely different.�h (Goldrim)

�gAh, yes. You�fre right. My apologies.�h (Rimgold)

I may have misjudged Goldrim. He seems to have a good head on his shoulders.

Well, Runetap�fs situation was a huge mistake anyway. The instructor we hired from the Magic Academy
explained that the flying enchantment on Runetap's ground was actually of rather poor quality. They arranged them
under the walls assuming those were [Barrier] stones, but for [Flight] magic they need to be evenly spread out.

If it was done right, Runetap would also be able to float for 5-6 days like our base can.

***

�gGoldrim, Rimgold, Brand. I wish to express my gratitude to the people of Ecebis.�h (Kira)

I came to the guest house Nano built for them in the yard for this express purpose. The three of them shared difficult
expressions.

�gI�fm afraid I don�ft follow, Madam.�h (Goldrim)

�gThe Titansteel we received from Ecebis had proved instrumental in accomplishing one of my wife�fs dreams.
Since this made her incredibly happy, it also made me happy. Therefore, I am here to say my thanks.�h (Kira)

That Titansteel is a truly unique material. It completely disrupts any and all mana flows if there is enough of it.
Spells dissipate harmlessly the instant they come in contact with it. While direct-hit type spells like [Firebolt] and
[Thunder] can damage it somewhat, most spells simply disappear harmlessly.

�gThis is rather unusual for you, ma�fam.�h (Brand)

�gCome now, Brand. I�fm not some ingrate! Truthfully, I also have to thank Senator Goldrim personally. Your
discussion with Nano on the basics of Alchemy led to an epiphany that solved a dire problem for our household.�h
(Kira)

I had forgotten that one of the basics of Alchemy was that you needed to pour your mana into the mix at certain
stages of the potion brewing process. How accurate you are with this step is a direct measure of how good of an
alchemist you are.

�gI see. I don't fully understand, but I am glad to have been of service.�h (Goldrim)

�gI will be sure to relay your thanks back to the rest of the Senate when we return to Ecebis.�h (Rimgold)

�gStill, to actually use Titansteel so readily, as expected of you, ma'am!�h (Brand)

�gDo the dwarves not use Titansteel much?�h (Kira)

�gOnly in rare cases, it is quite the uncommon metal, after all.�h (Goldrim)

�gSince it�fs called Titansteel I thought it was something the Steelmother provided for the dwarves. Was I
wrong?�h (Kira)

�gI see, the name is a bit confusing when you put it like that. You see Madam, Ecebis means �eTitan Summit�f
in our ancient language. This metal was named for the mountain.�h (Goldrim)

"Is that so. Still, it should be more common now that you have ready access to those Depths, right?" (Kira)

�gI sincerely doubt that, Madam. The real problem is that Titansteel deposits are extremely small, about the size of
a fist. Since they are so hard to find, it is unlikely we will ever have too much of it.�h (Goldrim)

�gIt�fs true, even the two small crates of it we brought along amount to about a quarter of all we have been able
to collect over hundreds of years.�h (Rimgold)

�gS-So it�fs actually a super-rare material?�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs right. To put it plainly, my country values those two crates more than all the rest of the items we
brought combined. We were planning to present it as a luxury good of the highest class.�h (Goldrim)

Cold sweat forms in my palms and back. I had no idea!

�gBy the way ma�fam, mind if I ask what you used it for? I�fm quite curious now.�h (Brand)
�gI think we all are, Major!�h (Rimgold)

�gWell. It�fs, uhh, rather personal�c�h (Kira)

Nano and I figured out why my cooking was terrible - I had been unconsciously pouring mana into the food while
preparing it. Thus, what came out was not a meal, but a failed potion. Even after realizing this, I wasn't able to
completely cut off the flow.

That's where the Titansteel came in handy. With the interfering mana flow gone, my cooking became so good that
Ellie and the kids were moved to tears. Seeing that made me feel completely satisfied as a housewife!

But even then, I really can't bring myself to tell these guys that we used their ridiculously precious Titansteel to
make a pot.
Chapter 98 - Be careful with your sugar intake - it's dangerous beyond
mere calories - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

{Kira, we should be close enough to Runetap now.}

I stop practicing the [Null Gravity] spell for the moment. There hasn�ft been much progress anyway. Gravity
Magic is difficult as always.

�gFuuuu. Thanks, Nano. Ellie, I�fll meet you outside.�h (Kira)

{�gOkay, I�fll tell the kids to get ready.�h} (Ellie)

{�gRed, we�fre not going directly to the Capital?�h} (Kelly)

�gOh hey Kelly! Finally decided to trust Nano with an ear cuff?�h (Kira)

{�gYeah. Hopefully this one won�ft explode.�h} (Kelly)

That�fs rich, coming from this person! Still, I can definitely sympathize.

{�gSo why the detour?�h} (Kelly)

�gIt�fs not that big of a detour. We just have a few errands to run.�h (Kira)

Like restocking on fresh meat. Lara�fs been giving me sad faces ever since we ran out. I think I�fll splurge a bit
and get some quality pork ribs to make it up to her.

{�gThen I�fm going to drop by the bar along with the delegates.�h} (Kelly)

�gYou sure that�fs wise? Those people are bound to start another bar fight.�h (Kira)

Not to mention it's barely past noon, although that doesn't seem to matter for those hardcore drunks.

{�gThat�fs exactly why I�fm bringing them!�h} (Kelly)

�g... Nevermind. Just make sure you�fre ready to leave by sunset.�h (Kira)

{�gYou got it, boss lady.�h} (Kelly)

I leave my research room and start heading down the staircase. Putting it on the top floor is a bit annoying, but I
can�ft deny there�fs a certain appeal to it. As if saying �ereach these heights if you can!�f to my apprentices!
Well, not like I have any of those. Not yet, anyway.

The return trip took just about 7 days, as expected. We move a lot slower than that birdbrain so I thought it would
take much longer at first. But since we don�ft have to take any breaks the average pace is similar to Umph and
Kelly's. Although, she says that if it wasn�ft for her and the Calling delaying him, Umph could�fve reached
Ecebis in two, maybe three days. That�fs a bit scary!

I�fm fine with our rather slow speed though. Unlike our flight from Kotero to Runetap, the wind here is like a
harsh breeze at most. It flipped up the kids�f dresses a few times, but other than that it was perfectly tolerable.
Well, first things first, I should probably go to the Control Room and stop this thing in the air. Wouldn�ft want it
floating off into the distance while we�fre away.

***

�gAlright, remember what I said - back by sunset! Otherwise I�fll send Ellie to find you!�h (Kira)

�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Dwarves)

�gBrand, can you stop saluting me? It�fs awkward. I�fm not even part of your military.�h (Kira)

�gMilitary or not, it�fs a sign of my respect, ma�fam.�h (Brand)

�g... Fine. Do what you want.�h (Kira)

�gAlso, ma�fam, how do are we going to get into the city? Shull still hasn�ft recovered enough to fly so�c�h
(Brand)

�gThat�fs why we�fre here, Brand. I just have to fix this.�h (Kira)

I�fm currently standing next to where the [Gateway] should be.

�gThat pile of rocks?�h (Brand)

�gYeah, I�fve been meaning to ask, what happened to that thing?�h (Kelly)

�gIt became like that once we moved out of range of Runetap. It�fs okay though, should be able to reactivate
it.�h (Kira)

I put my hand on the stone pedestal next to the pile of rocks and flow my mana into it. There�fs a response from
the rocks, they glow green and start floating in the air, spinning around and slowly reforming the stone archway.

�gThat�fs so cool!�h (Lara)

�gWhile it is indeed a spectacle, I fail to see how this could help.�h (Goldrim)

�gYou�fll find out soon enough, your senatorialness. Just let Red do her thing.�h (Kelly)

Okay, the stone archway is reconstructed. Looks like it found its friend already, so I won't have to reconfigure it. I
keep pumping mana into it to charge it up. Once there's enough, I speak the passphrase.

�gDragons are really scared of apples.�h (Kira)

I might have to change that passphrase. It�fs a bit embarrassing saying it in front of others.

*OWOOOOONNN*

The [Gateway] properly links up, showing a view of the inside of our (slightly dusty) house in Runetap.

�gAll set. Let�fs go, everyone inside. Just like passing through a doorway.�h (Kira)

I wave at the dubious dwarves. They give me a few questioning looks, but since Ellie and the kids already went
through, they follow them quietly. Then it�fs Kelly and finally myself.
The portal collapses behind me with a low noise. The delegation is a bit stupefied, but seems to understand more or
less what just happened. I�fll probably need to answer yet more questions later, but it doesn�ft matter too much.

�gKira, won�ft Old Boisterous Uncle get mad if we just bring these guys in like this?�h (Ellie)

�gUgh! I completely forgot! This is illegal entry isn�ft it!? Haaaah, sorry you three, we�fre going to take a small
detour to the South Gate first.�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs okay Red, I�fll take them. You go have fun with your family.�h (Kelly)

�g... Thanks Kelly.�h (Kira)

�gCome on you lot, time to meet the Guard Captain.�h (Kelly)

�gWhat�fs this about, Lady Darkhand?�h (Rimgold)

�gAh, it�fs a common practice in this kingdom. They record every new face that goes in and out of major cities.
That way if you, say, punch the king in the groin, they can track you down and-�h (Kelly)

Kelly ushers them through the front door and into the city. I�fm glad I won�ft have to deal with those three today,
although that explanation was going in a weird direction.

Still, I almost forgot how handy she is to keep around. Having a gopher take care of troublesome errands is the best!
Oh, crap! I haven�ft re-established my contract with her!

Hmm? Now that I think about it, she never actually terminated it in the first place. Huh. She never slacks off when it
comes to contracts. Looks like she really was planning to come back to us, despite those so-called [Chains That
Bind].

***

�gOhhhh! If it isn�ft the Quasse family! Welcome back to our humble shop!�h (Waitress)

The usual high-tension waitress greets us as we enter the �eVestiges of the Empire.�f I�fm surprised she
remembered us. We only came here only four or five times. Although, I guess we made a bit of a scene each time...

Ellie especially seems to have much stronger reactions to the pastries here than the rest of us. When she tried the
Chocolate Apocalypse, she actually wept at the perceived chocolate-covered fate of the world. I mean I was
depressed when I ate it myself, but not to that extent!

�gGood day. Can we get a table for four?�h (Kira)

�gCertainly! Right this way!�h (Waitress)

We follow her and get seated rather quickly.

�gWould you like the regular menu or the spoilery one?�h (Waitress)

�gNeither, just four orders of Pleasingly Peachy Pancakes, please. With some caramel syrup on mine.�h (Kira)

We have places to be so we�fre not ordering anything wild today. All those pancakes will do is put a goofy smile
on your face for about 10-15 minutes. They�fre quite delicious, too!
�gOne hot choco please!�h (Sophie)

�gSame here!�h (Lara)

�gAnd some honey on my pancakes.�h (Ellie)

�gOkay! Will that be all?�h (Waitress)

�gAlso, if possible I would like to speak with your boss. I have a business proposal for him.�h (Kira)

The waitress�fs upturned eyes and wide smile instantly disappear like they were an illusion. She glares at me with
a doubtful look.

�gBut you�fre already married, right?�h (Waitress)

�gI said business proposal! Business!�h (Kira)

�gOh! Of course! Excuse me for the misunderstanding! I�fll ask him on your behalf!�h (Waitress)

She runs off with a rather embarrassed face. What�fs with that selective hearing? I�fd appreciate it if there were
no bad rumors born from this.

The waitress comes back after about ten minutes, with our order. Four plates of pancakes and two cups of chocolate.
After she�fs done serving everyone, she turns to me.

�gMrs. Quasse, the boss says he�fll have some time in about half an hour. Is it okay to wait a while after your
meal?�h (Waitress)

�gYes, that�fs fine. Thank you.�h (Kira)

That�fs pretty accommodating considering I didn�ft make an appointment. It�fs a bit rude of me, but I have to
hear his opinion before we head back to the capital.

�gAlright! Please enjoy yourselves in the meantime!�h (Waitress)

The waitress smiles pleasantly once again before bouncing off to wait on other tables. Well, I focus my attention to
the plate in front of me. The small stack of pancakes is simply oozing with caramel goodness! Mmmm yeah, I�fm
really looking forward to these!

�gWoah! What�fs with these pancakes! They�fre way tastier than I remember! Kira! They�fre great! You
should hurry up and eat them right now! See, like this! *Homnomnomnomnom*�h (Ellie)

Wah! What�fs going on!? She devoured all four honey-glazed pancakes in a flash! She�fs had these before, but
she was just slightly giddy afterwards!

Wait�c that honey on her plate is a bit strange in color, isn�ft it? The color is a deeper orange than normal,
bordering on red... Ack! Don�ft tell me they brought her Hyper-bee Honey!

�gNnnnnn, girlscomeoneatupyourpancakesalreadywehavestufftodoletsgoletsgoletsgooooooo!�h (Ellie)

She�fs shaking furiously in her seat and speaking at high speeds! That�fs definitely Hyper-bee Honey! I need to
get her out of here before she breaks something!

�gEllie, maybe you should step out for a run?�h (Kira)

�gGoodideaKirathatsgoodthatsgoodthatsgoodrunningforabitsoundsverygoodberightback! HHHNnnnn! HYAAAA!
�h (Ellie)

*Crash*

She literally leaped out of her seat with a quadruple backflip and flew straight into the wall. She fell to the ground,
stood upright like a pin and bolted outside.

�g...�h (Everyone)

Yep, we did it again. The entire shop, customers and waitresses alike, stare in our direction with dumbfounded
expressions. One gentleman even stopped his fork midway to his mouth. The only sound heard is gentle weeping
from the girl eating her strawberry shortcake. Well, at least Ellie didn�ft break anything this time, so let�fs call
that progress.

I share a few knowing looks with Lara and Sophie and we nod to each other in understanding.

*Munch munch munch*

�gMmmm! Today�fs pancakes are especially good!�h (Kira)

�gI know! They�fre even better with the hot choco!�h (Lara)

�gReally? I�fve never tried the combination before.�h (Kira)

�gYou should!�h (Lara)

�gHere Mommy, try it with some of mine!�h (Sophie)

Sophie holds up her cup with an open smile. She�fs so cute when she�fs like this! I gratefully accept the cup from
her tiny hands.

�gOh, then don�ft mind if I do, sweetie!�h (Kira)

I sip a bit of the dark liquid after taking another bite. The peaches, chocolate and caramel give an unparalleled
sweetness that won�ft lose to Sophie�fs smile! I�fll have to keep this combination in mind for next time!

Well, this and the thing the three of us are pretending never happened.

***

The waitress guides me to the back of the cake shop and leads me to a door with a sign roughly nailed to it. It has
�eMANAGER�f written on it. She knocks twice.

WHO DARES DISTURB THE GREAT AND POWERFUL ZUBLOS?

�gHey boss! Mrs Quasse is here to see you!�h (Waitress)

SO THAT PITIFUL WORM HAS FINALLY ARRIVED TO KNEEL BEFORE ME? VERY
WELL!

�gHe says he�fll see you now.�h (Waitress)

I thank the waitress and enter the office. She closes the door behind me. Zublos is sitting behind a large desk. A
really large desk. How did it even fit through the door? Well, doesn�ft matter.

�gThank you for meeting with me on such short notice, Zublos.�h (Kira)

YOUR GRATITUDE IS MEANINGLESS, MORTAL! SPEAK YOUR TRIFLING REQUEST SO

THAT I MAY CRUSH IT UNDER MY HEEL

I see, he�fs rather busy. I should try to make this short.

�gI�fm going to open a new Academy in the near future. One whose purpose is to show children many different
walks of life so that they may choose their future and adequately prepare for it.�h (Kira)

AND HOW DOES THIS FOOLHARDY PLOY MATTER TO ONE AS TERRIBLE AS

ZUBLOS?

�gI wish to hire you to teach a course regarding business practices and work ethic. This course will last three weeks
and will be held twice a year.�h (Kira)

He raises an eyebrow meaningfully. Or menacingly. It�fs hard to tell with that ancient evil-y face of his. Although,
as Kelly said, the cute chef hat does ruin the image somewhat. Either way, it seems to have piqued his interest.

�gOf course, you will be paid for your time. As an added boon, there may be those willing to become apprentice
chefs under your guidance once the course is over. I�fm sure a savvy man such as yourself knows the importance
of young talent. We will sort out the details later, but I need to know if you're willing.�h (Kira)

YOUR MEAGER OFFERING OF INSIGNIFICANT YOUNGLINGS AND WORTHLESS COIN

DOES NOT PLEASE ME, MORTAL!

He waves his hand with a rather unpleasant scowl on his face.

SHOULD YOU WISH TO PARTAKE IN MY FORMIDABLE AND FORBIDDEN

KNOWLEDGE, THEN YOU MUST SWEAR ALLEGIANCE TO ME AND FAITHFULLY
SPREAD THE SEED OF MY EVIL TO YOUR COUNTRYMEN

�gI�fm sorry. You lost me on that one.�h (Kira)

His face becomes twisted with rage. Either that or it�fs apologetic. Like I said, it could go either way with this guy.

MINION!

Zublos shouts at the door behind me. It almost instantly opened and that same waitress is standing in the doorway.
Wait, was she there the entire time? She looks at me and starts explaining with a smile.

�gThe boss wants a permit to open a branch shop in the Capital. He was denied when we last visited due to his so-
called �edubious background�f so he�fs been troubled over it for a while.�h (Waitress)

Ohhh! Right, I see. That does make sense. Runetap is far more accepting of people like him than the Capital, after
all. I mean it�fs not like I don�ft understand the prejudice. Honestly, he looks like he�fd eat my
kids whole. However, I�fve not heard of him doing a single bad thing. Well, other than being too loud, although
that might be an asset rather than a demerit when you�fre teaching a class.
I turn my head back to Zublos who seems to have calmed down a bit. That or he�fs smelling something bad.

�gI see. Then if I can secure this permit on your behalf, will you be willing to teach at my Academy?�h (Kira)

THIS OFFERING PLEASES ZUBLOS

Well, that�fs a definite yes. It should be possible if I can get Lilly to investigate and vouch for him.

�gVery good! I will see what I can do about it and get back to you. Thank you for your time.�h (Kira)

TIME IS ONE THING THE MIGHTY ZUBLOS HAS PLENTY OF, UNLIKE YOU AND YOUR
PITIFUL EXISTENCE

I bow slightly and leave the office along with the waitress.

�gThank you very much for that. I was quite troubled with his way of speaking.�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs okay. The boss is really sweet once you get past that!�h (Waitress)

�gSpeaking of which, I don�ft think we�fve been properly introduced. I�fm Kiressara mil Quasse.�h (Kira)

�gAh! That�fs right isn�ft it? I�fm Lara Alamein!�h (Lara A)

�gWow! Same as my daughter! How about that?!�h (Kira)

Meeting someone with the same name is a ridiculously good omen! I mean it happens so rarely that you'd need a lot
of luck just to witness it!

�gI know, right? I overheard by chance before and it made me seriously excited!�h (Lara A)

So that�fs why she�fs so insistent on being our waitress whenever we come here!

�gShe�fs a really cute kid, by the way.�h (Lara A)

�gThank you! You know, you should go introduce yourself to her before we leave.�h (Kira)

�gIs that okay? I don�ft want to overstep my bounds�c�h (Lara A)

�gIt�fs fine, it�fs fine. I�fm sure it�fll make her happy.�h (Kira)

And when my daughter�fs happy, I�fm happy. It�fs simple, really!

Hmm? Wait, Alamein? That's somehow familiar. Where have I seen that name before? Oh! Ohhhh!

�gCan I ask something a bit personal, Lara?�h (Kira)

�gSure!�h (Lara A)

�gDo you like almonds?�h (Kira)

She blinks at me with a blank expression, processing what I just said. Then she shows me the same embarrassed face
she had earlier and instantly goes red up to her ears.
"W-wait! That's not- I mean- I don't-" (Lara A)

She gets really flustered and starts waving her hands around. I see, I hit the nail on the head, huh? Too bad it seems
to be unrequited. I gently put a hand on her shoulder and smile reassuringly.

�gDon�ft worry, I won�ft say a thing. I hope your feelings get through to him. I�fll be rooting for you!�h
(Kira)

�gTh-thanks. It means a lot.�h (Lara A)

She can�ft even look me in the eye, she�fs surprisingly bashful about this stuff, huh?

The Almond Alamein is the first cake in the menu, I guessed right that it had some significance to this Lara. But
still, getting him to name a cake after her was way too subtle a hint. I don't want to be a busybody, but she should be
more like Ellie and properly state her feelings for Zublos!
Intermission - A copy of the Vestiges of the Empire Menu, Spoilers
version - Binary Soul | Royal Road
DISCLAIMER: All secondary effects listed here are temporary. The Vestiges of the
Empire is not to be held responsible for any action or inaction caused while under
the influence of its products.

Alamond Alamein
Dark chocolate cake decorated graciously with Round Almonds nuts
You will unintentionally say �enuts�f at the end of every sentence nuts

Babushka
Sweet dumplings made with potato-based batter and Power Plum filling
You will have an incessant urge to threaten people with a rolling pin

Banana Throne
Layered cake made with bananas, cream, chocolate and Bell Walnuts
You will hear a constant ringing that isn�ft there

Chef�fs Pick
Ask your waitress for today�fs special
WARNING: May or may not involve a live sacrifice to the great and mighty Zublos

Chocolate Apocalypse
Chocolate fudge cake with a hint of Demon Sugar
You will experience a world made out of chocolate

Drowned Mariner
Caramel-glazed cake with fermented Pond Fruit filling
You will feel like you�fre sinking in a sea of booze

Emergency Exit
Coffee cake made with Blue Cinnamon
Even the simplest problem will seem like a world-ending crisis

Forbidden Flavor
Chocolate souffle with Dreamberry filling
Your deepest desires will be given form

Fury of a Thousand Suns

Crepes with Rageberry filling
You will lash out against this unreasonable world
WARNING: Customer must be shackled prior to ingesting

Honeyed Happiness
Six cupcakes glazed with Hyper-bee Honey
You will know boundless and unbridled joy

King�fs Quest
Sweetroll with crushed Box Peanuts
You will only see large squares
Pleasantly Peachy Pancakes
A stack of four pancakes made with crushed Pure Peach
You will feel all is right with the world

Random Rhapsody
Layered spongecake with a rainbow jam filling
Not even the chef knows what will happen with this one

Red Rabbit
Crimson Valley style carrot cake
You won�ft be able to stop bouncing

Soulforger�fs Gaze
Bran muffins with Coo-coo-coconut cream filling
You will discover a new you

Stranger Danger
Six doughnuts with Paranoid Pepper jam
You will be more perceptive of other people�fs hostile intentions

Strawberry of Despair
Srawberry and cream shortcake made with Ghostflour
So tasty you will be truly saddened when it�fs all gone
WARNING: Limited to two per customer per day due to safety concerns

The Hidden Truth

Cheesecake made with milk from an All Knowing Ox
You will realize where you lost your house keys that one time

Time-Trader
Caramel souffle made out of Quick Quacker eggs
The world around you will seem to slow down and speed up at random

Visceral Vanilla
Moist cake that uses Violent Vanilla as the main ingredient
You will violently and voraciously vivisect this vestige of vanilla, violating volition and vanishing virtuosity,
leaving you vexed, yet vivified

World�fs End
Perception Pineapple based upside-down cake
Your view of the world will be flipped

Zublos the Almighty

Homemade biscuit cake, made according to a secret recipe straight from the Pit of Crushing Loneliness
You will better appreciate what you have

You people went and made me spell it out. I ninja-edited the last line in the previous chapter since I was apparently
being too elusive. Go re-read it if you're still confused!
Chapter 99 - The apple doesn't fall far from the tree - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
The apple doesn't fall far from the tree is a silly metaphor that you really shouldn't put too much thought into

> Brand Darkhand PoV <

The Guard Captain in front of us stamps the three documents and passes them to us.

�gAll set, there ya go.�h (Guard Captain)

------------------------------------------------------------------
Background confirmation form BG-K

Name: Brand Darkhand

Race: Dwarf
Sex: M
Age: 33
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Green
Special features: None
Birthplace: Hardvark
Father: Not writing that
Mother: Gilda Darkhand
Siblings: Entirely too many
Spouse: None
Known affiliations: Kelly Darkhand, Adventurer Team Black Flame
Previous offenses: None
Character evaluation: Quietly judgemental type. Likes giving people the stink eye
Inspector: Guard Captain Olboun, Runetap
------------------------------------------------------------------

�gIs this some sort of sick joke!?�h (Rimgold)

I must admit I�fm with Senator Rimgold on this one. His and Goldrim�fs entry forms are similarly filled out with
nonsense. This so-called Guard Captain's conduct and attitude are both highly suspect.

Now admittedly, I�fve never spent much time in Ferseit. I made for the City State Alliance when I was old enough
to leave Hardvark. But this is supposed to be a vital part of law enforcement, right?

It�fs just shameful is what it is. This as an official document! Our first recorded visit into this country and I�fm
being called �ejudgemental�f just like that!? And what does he mean my eyes stink?! I�fm a little annoyed by
this bandit-wannabe's one-sided evaluation!

�gStamp�fs all anyone really looks at. If yer all done, then kindly get out of my office.�h (Guard Captain)

How rude! Is he simply mad at us because Rimgold repeatedly questioned his qualifications and casual attitude?
You can�ft let personal grudges like that influence your work! I want to reprimand him myself, but I can�ft speak
out of turn here.

�gKnow your place, human! Do you have any idea who you�fre speaking to?�h (Rimgold)
Senator Rimgold is understandably outraged at this attitude. He�fs basically a noble, there�fs no way he�fd stand
for this treatment! I mean yes, Kiressara and Ellie may have threatened both of the senators a bit severely, but they
had reasons to do so! They�fre our country�fs benefactors and these two did not treat them with the proper respect
at that time, so they were the ones at fault.

�gYes, yes, mister Rimjob, was it? I'm quite busy lately, so I�fm gonna ask ya to leave me to finish my paperwork
before someone gets hur!.�h (Guard Captain)

But this armored baldy is a different story! He deliberately insulted the senator�fs name and is waving us off like
we�fre nosy flies!

�gLet it go, your senatorialness. If we cause them any problems then Red will seriously get mad.�h (Kelly)

�gKelly�fs right, ya know? If she didn�ft vouch for the three of ya on behalf of the Madam, I would�fve kicked
ya out of the city for yer clearly hostile behavior. If ya really are a foreign diplomatic party, then ya should act the
part! Ya have no business here and are just passin�f through anyway, right?�h (Guard Captain)

Guh! Despite his bandit-like atmosphere, this guy still said something reasonable. We can�ft cause an incident
here!

�gMajor! Do something about this rude man!�h (Rimgold)

Did the senator completely ignore what was just said? I�fm at a loss for words! Regardless of who was in the
wrong, this is something we need to back down from! The problem is I can�ft really oppose what he says since
he�fs my superior in several ways!

�gRimgold, you heard the man. If we push this, then it will come back to haunt Mrs Quasse! Do you really want to
get on that woman�fs bad side!?�h (Goldrim)

�gBah! Like I care about some broken bones! My pride and honor won�ft allow me to just sit back and let this
ruffian insult me so casually!�h (Rimgold)

�gRimgold. Forget broken bones or pride, the whole of Ecebis is liable to get buried under the ground. You know
Red wrecked a significant part of this city just because a High Dragon happened by on her wedding day?!�h
(Kelly)

�gGeh! Is-is-is that true?�h (Rimgold)

�gIt is. We only recently finished rebuildin�f everythin�f. The High Dragon along with around 40,000
people�fs homes were all wiped out with just one of her spells.�h (Guard Captain)

The Guard Captain confirms this catastrophe with a casual tone without lifting his head from the papers he�fs
working on. The senator stares at him in disbelief for a few moments before he turns sour once again.

�gAnd you just let someone like that walk away?�h (Rimgold)

�gCourse not! I gave her a firm scoldin�f and we asked her to pay fer the majority of the reconstruction costs.
Well, the High Dragon scared off all the people so nobody was actually hurt. Not to mention she did technically
eradicate a menace to the city. In light of all that as well as her�c previous accomplishments�c the Baron decided
it was punishment enough.�h (Guard Captain)

I think I understand what the Guard Captain is saying. Or rather, what he can't say. �eWe couldn�ft restrain her by
force even if we were ordered to�f are the unspoken words I�fm getting from him. I can completely understand it,
having witnessed that fearsome magic firsthand. I sympathize with this fellow soldier. There are some battles where
the only way to win is to avoid fighting.

Hmm? Fellow soldier? What? This guy? No, he does exude a certain aura. Veteran legionaries give off a similar
feeling to this man. Especially the way his eyes constantly keep track of everything around him. He�fs ready to
respond immediately should we try to pull something. I won�ft fault him for that, though. It�fs a habit I have as
well.

�gCome to think of it, that was her 500th arrest, huh? It�fs been a bit lonely lately without her gettin�f into
trouble four-to-five times a week.�h (Guard Captain)

Five hundred!? Both senators are staring with mouths agape! Even Goldrim who was mostly quiet this whole time
cannot believe his ears!

�gWell she has a wife and kids now. No respectable adult can keep running wild under those circumstances.�h
(Kelly)

�gThat�fs true, isn�ft it? I guess even ol�f Crackhead ended up settling down properly, huh? As expected of
Runetap, truly anything can happ-.�h (Guard Captain)

*CRASH DING THUD*

�gGet down!�h (Brand)

I reflexively push the two senators to the floor! What�fs going on? Something just broke the glass window! Are we
under attack by monsters? I heard it was a common occurrence in this city, but why now!?

�gI apologize! I had a momentary relapse since I was being nostalgic! I swear to be more careful! Please forgive
me!�h (Guard Captain)

The Guard Captain bolted upright and began apologizing to someone. His eyes are swimming and I see sweat
beading up on his forehead. I quickly scan the room, but I don�ft see anyone else. I spotted several small changes
though.

First I noticed that, rather predictably, the glass window to my right had shattered. Next, the shield mounted on the
wall to my left is slightly crooked with a dent I�fm sure wasn�ft there a while ago. And finally, immediately
above and behind the Guard Captain�fs head in front of me, was a small black knife embedded in the wall. Now
that I�fm taking a closer look at it, the wooden paneling is full of small, oddly uniform slits.

As for the black knife itself, it�fs instantly recognizable. I only saw it just recently, after all.

�gAh, you went and did it now. Don�ft worry, she forgave you.�h (Kelly)

Kelly touched her new ear cuff while replying to the now relaxed Guard Captain. She didn�ft even flinch at the
sudden development. What was it she kept saying before? �eIt�fs your loss if you mind it�f huh? I see, this is
how she became capable enough to survive through that enhanced Calling.

Judging from what the Steelmother told us, if Umph hadn�ft planned on going off-script then it shouldn�ft have
been that bad. Every time I see Kelly�fs artificial arm my anger towards that guy flares up a bit. I understand why
he did what he did, but as a big brother it�fs not something I can easily forgive.

Well, the concerned person herself seems alright with this outcome, so it�fs not my place to complain. Although I
really want to complain straight to his face with a sword.

�gRimgold. Major. I think it�fs best if we take our leave.�h (Goldrim)

�gYes�c Let�fs do that�c�h (Rimgold)

The two senators unsteadily pick themselves up off the ground after a long moment of silence and start making for
the exit. Kelly follows them out while waving back to the Guard Captain who was already returning to his
paperwork.

�gBye Olboun, thanks for today! Sorry about all this.�h (Kelly)

She points in the general direction of that shattered window.

�gAny time Kelly! Also, sorry about what?�h (Guard Captain)

He lets out another casual reply. It�fs almost as if he�fs refusing to believe that window was broken in the first
place. Such strength of spirit, I have underestimated this man! Quite formidable indeed. I can learn a lot from him.

�gIt was a pleasure and honor to make your acquaintance, Guard Captain Olboun.�h (Brand)

I give him the traditional two-finger Legion salute. I didn't have much of a chance to speak until now. Olboun smiles
back at me and mirrors the gesture.

�gLikewise, Major Darkhand. You take care of yourself out there.�h (Olboun)

I should come back some time and ask for a spar. I�fm sure he can show me plenty of tricks you don�ft see in the
Depths.

***

�gThis is the place, huh?�h (Brand)

There�fs a signpost with what looks to be a wolf hanging above the door. The large window in front has been
boarded up crudely and there�fs sounds of a fight already underway inside. If I had to put it in a few words - the
very definition of a seedy bar.

�gYep. Welcome to The Hairy Leg. Now, three things you should keep in mind before we walk in. First, everyone
inside has a lot of pent up aggression they need to vent. Second, they�fre great lads deep down, so a black eye is
the worst they�fll do to you. Third, they heal bloody fast, so we can go all out right from the start!�h (Kelly)

The two senators look at each other and nod back to Kelly. There�fs not a dwarf in Ecebis that doesn�ft enjoy
unwinding with a good pint and a straight punch.

�gHuh? It went quiet all of a sudden.�h (Brand)

The muffled sounds of yells and impacts died off while were standing outside.

�gYeah that�fs strange. Usually it keeps going on all day on Thursdays. Still, it�fs a good chance to barge in!�h
(Kelly)

�gWhat�fs Thursday have to do with anything?�h (Goldrim)

Ignoring the senator's question, Kelly opens the door with a huge grin on her face.

�gHey Frank! I�fm back! You would not believe the�c uh oh.�h (Kelly)
Her grin vanished and she went white as a sheet! I peek over her shoulder and instantly understand why.

There are about a dozen werewolves. Taller, furrier and more muscular than humans, notoriously tough and
ferocious. All of them were sprawled out on the ground. Their faces are bruised and their rag-like clothes are stained
with blood. The only figure standing in the whole bar was someone I loathed to meet again.

Wearing a plain house-wife like dress, ginger braided hair, piercing green eyes, arms as thick as logs and an air
about her that denies the existence of the word �edisobedience.�f She looks exactly like I remember her - an older
version of the current Kelly. Noticing our presence, she lifted a blood stained mug as if to welcome us to her
domain.

�gOH! There ya are, ya little shit! I�fve been lookin�f all over fer ya!�h (Gilda)

�gWell if it isn�ft the old hag! Still haven�ft kicked the bucket, yet?�h (Kelly)

*SMASH*

�gOOF!�h (Kelly)

Kelly�fs venomous comment was greeted by a mug throw to the face. It knocked her flat on her back while
bouncing off her forehead, flying back into Mother�fs hands. That masterful technique is a Secret Art of the
Hardvark Style of Drunken Fisticuffs.

�gThat any way to talk to yer mother you ingrate!? I�fm the one that gave ya life!�h (Gilda)

�gSo what!? You think you can just take it back anytime you please?�h (Kelly)

�gDamn right I can! And is this any way to- Hang on a bloody minute! Brand? BRAND!? What in blazes are you
doing out here!? Did you get your sorry ass exiled?�h (Gilda)

Unlike my sister, I know better than to oppose Mother. If we had her down in those Depths, she�fd probably have
all the monsters scrubbing the floors clean within a week!

�gHello Mother. No, actually I�fm here as part of an official delegation from Ecebis to the Kingdom of Ferseit.
The two people behind me are Senators Goldrim and Rimgold.�h (Brand)

She stares at the two senators, instantly finding at least 8 faults with them. You can tell by how many time she blinks
her eyes in contempt. It seems they read the mood for once and decided to stay out of this family affair.

�gSay what!? They opened up the bloody country? So this incompetent daughter o�f mine really went and did
something outrageous, didn�ft she?�h (Gilda)

�gUuugh�c Not me, that bloody titan I found went and broke the Chains! You felt it too, right?�h (Kelly)

�gDang right I felt it! It�fs bloody marvelous! Now I can finally move out of that shithole and get a proper house!
Now then Kelly. Care to explain why and how you lost that arm of yours!? Didn�ft I tell you to take better care of
yourself?!�h (Gilda)

�gBut the Chains-�h (Kelly)

�gNo excuses, Kelly! I spent all those years correctin�f yer completely reckless behavior and this is the sort of
shit you come back with?!�h (Gilda)

�g *Ptui* Don�ft pretend like you care, you old windbag! All you ever did was bitch and moan at the lot of us!
�h (Kelly)

�gOh! Oh ho ho ho! Feeling like challenging yer mother again now that yer some sorta hero?�h (Gilda)

�gHero? Who me? Nah I�fm just a mercenary who got bailed out by her boss.�h (Kelly)

�gYer a WHAT!? Ya said you was an engineer or something!�h (Gilda)

�gSo? What�fs wrong with being a mercenary?! You think I�fll just blindly follow everything you say? Don�ft
think I won�ft slap you silly, you damned bat!�h (Kelly)

�gCome on then, ya little shit! Let�fs see if you got what it takes! Mugs out!�h (Gilda)

Looks like she accepted Kelly�fs challenge. This obviously isn't the first time it's been issued, either.

Kelly finally picks herself up from the ground. She takes a minute to bring out her hip flask and empty it while
swallowing noisily. She then put that away and unfastens the titan-made mug she keeps latched to her belt at all
times. It�fs almost as blood-stained as Mother�fs, although the stains on the latter are very much still wet.

�gOh, I�fve been looking forward to this!�h (Kelly)

She cracks her neck and knuckles while assuming her stance. Each of them breaks out into a viciously toothy grin
and charge at each other, starting a fight in broad daylight. Fists and mugs make contact with heads and shoulders.
They�fre really laying into each other! Dull sounds echo through the street.

The few people passing by this out-of-the-way alley either keep walking and minding their own business, or stare
knowingly at the street fight. Well, most folk probably won�ft be able to tell, but this right here is a duel between
seasoned martial artists with their prides on the line. It�fs quite the serious affair, although still entertaining to
watch if you have an eye for these things. The two senators are already hooked on the fight.

�gOh! Good hit! That left-right-left-headbutt combo was quite something!�h (Goldrim)

�gThe younger one�fs not losing though! The kidney shot counter and elbow to the face follow up was clearly
superior!�h (Rimgold)

�gBah, your eyes must�fve gone bad! Tell ya what, I got 4 pints on the mother!�h (Goldrim)

�gYou�fre on, Goldrim!�h (Rimgold)

�gYou want in on this, Major?�h (Goldrim)

�gSorry, senator. No matter who I bet on, I�fll lose in the end.�h (Brand)

We�fre talking about my mother and my sister. I can�ft pick sides unless I want one of them to hate me for
supporting the other.

�gSo this is where she went!�h (Brown Werewolf)

One of the werewolves poked his head out from the bar. Looks like they do indeed heal fast. He turns around and
starts yelling towards the inside.

�gHey Frank! Joseph! Get out here! Kelly�fs back and she�fs beating the snot out of that lady!�h (Brown
Werewolf)
Two more of them come out of the bar and join the small crowd that�fs forming.

�gWhat�fs this now? Oh she�fs really laying into her with those knees to the stomach!�h (Silver Werewolf)

�gYeah, but that newcomer easily broke out of Kelly�fs headlock! Even I can�ft do that!�h (Burly Black
Werewolf)

�gThat�fs her mother, apparently!�h (Random Spectator)

�gNo wonder their fists felt so similar!�h (Silver Werewolf)

�gHey you! Yeah, you there with the stink-eye!�h (Brown Werewolf)

The brown one calls out to me while pointing at me with a glint in his eye! I see how it is!

�gWhat did you just call me, fleabag!? Say that again and I�fll teach you just what stinks around here!�h (Brand)

�gBig words coming from a little shrimp!�h (Brown Werewolf)

�gBig words coming from a giant wimp!�h (Brand)

�gWant a piece of me, do ya?!�h (Brown Werewolf)

�gBring it, ya furry- Urph!�h (Brand)

He leaps forward and hits me with a solid left hook right in the gabber! Good timing! Old Brand has some issues he
needs to work through!

To celebrate the 100th chapter of the main story, I've submitted the first part of Binary Soul: Lip Service. Make sure
you catch it once it gets approved!
Chapter 100 - Every parent is different, but some are more different
than others - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gHey, grandpa, we�fre here to visit!�h (Lara)

�gGrandpa!�h (Sophie)

The two rush at dad the instant they see him. I wish they�fd behave better while we�fre inside the church, but we
haven't visited in a while so I�fll let it slide.

�gOhoo! If it isn�ft the two cutest girls in the whole world!�h (Ernest)

In a voice totally unbefitting his position, he kneels down and picks them both up in an exaggerated swoop. He hugs
them tight with one arm each and then stands up to spin them around a few times. I don�ft think he even noticed
Ellie and I were here yet...

�gUm, e-excuse me, Bishop Quasse? About the, uh, matter of the Archbishop�fs visit�c�h (Clergyman)

The person he was speaking with just moments ago was completely forgotten. I really wish dad wouldn�ft ignore
his duties so blatantly. Well yes, I�fm the one that visited him while he was on the job, but if I knew he was
actually busy I would have come later. The church is usually pretty idle in the afternoon.

�gLater! I have urgent business to attend to! Come on girls! Let�fs go see what I have for you in my office today!
�h (Ernest)

And just like that he pretty much ran away at full speed while carrying my daughters. The clergyman was left
standing there with a blank expression.

�gI�fm sorry for the disturbance. It seemed to be something important.�h (Kira)

The elderly clergyman looks back at me and his already cramped smile twitches slightly.

�gDo not mind me. I will return later. *Cough* May Enuri light your path.�h (Clergyman)

�gAnd yours as well.�h (Kira)

He walks away while muttering something about �ecrazy kids.�f I hope he doesn�ft mean mine, otherwise I
won�ft forgive him! Ah right, speaking of those girls, they�fd better not be stuffing themselves! I slightly readjust
Ellie's position on my back and head off to dad�fs office. I just hope he doesn't give them more sweets again.

�gDad! I knew it! Put those away you two!�h (Kira)

My worries were realized, both of them were sitting on his knees with an open jar next to them and half-eaten
cookies in their hands.

Nano warned me that giving them too many sweet things would be bad in several ways, so I have to be strict here!
Especially since we only left the cake shop less than an hour ago!

�gNow, now, Kiressara. I reserve my right as a grandparent to spoil them all I want! Huh? What�fs with Ellie? Is
she okay?�h (Ernest)
�gUghh. Hello.�h (Ellie)

Ellie groaned from her position on my back.

�gShe can barely walk so I had to give her a piggyback ride on the way here.�h (Kira)

I move over to a sofa and gently lay her down. I take a seat while putting her head on my lap. She has a headache, so
I can't scratch her ears. Instead I'll just lightly stroke her head to soothe it a bit.

�gHmm, warm�c�h (Ellie)

She puts on a relax face. Good, looks like it's working.

�gShould I call one of the healers?�h (Ernest)

�gIt�fs not that serious, she�fs mostly just exhausted. She ate some Hyper-bee Honey earlier so she�fs just
going through a sugar crash.�h (Kira)

Hearing that, dad looks at me with a stern expression.

�gThat girl, is she properly doing her job?�h (Ernest)

�gYes, dad, we�fre completely lovey-dovey.�h (Kira)

�gThat's right. Lovey-dovey.�h (Ellie)

�gUgh...�h (Lara)

�gHehe.�h (Sophie)

�gI wish you would stop nagging her about that every single time we visit.�h (Kira)

�gDenied! It�fs a step-father�fs duty to be nosy! You would be too if it was your daughter who got married to
someone she just met!�h (Ernest)

Here we go again. I wish someone would derail this pointless argument of his before he disturbs Ellie�fs rest.

�gGrandpa, what�fs an archer bishop?�h (Sophie)

�gA what?�h (Ernest)

Sophie, good job! Her sudden question catches him completely by surprise! Also, the image of dad shooting a bow
somehow pops into my head. It�fs not very flattering�c

�gSis means archbishop.�h (Lara)

�gOh. Simply put, that�fs my boss.�h (Ernest)

�gYou won�ft get in trouble for ignoring that guy from earlier, right?�h (Lara)

�gWhy would I?�h (Ernest)

�gWasn�ft it something important?�h (Lara)

�gBah! Nonsense! As if something could be more important than my family!�h (Ernest)

�gIf it was Mommy she�fd get angry with you, grandpa...�h (Sophie)

�gI already am! Dad, how could you just blow that poor man off like that! Do you know how awkward that was?
�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs fine, it�fs fine. That guy is just a busybody. That visit isn�ft until after the year turns anyway.�h
(Ernest)

Now that he mentions it, the new year is almost upon us huh? I�fll make a mental note to start my preparations for
it later.

�g... Is that Archbishop still mad at you?�h (Kira)

�gProbably. He can�ft do anything but grumble about it though. Besides, even if I was going to be
excommunicated I wouldn't regret a single thing!�h (Ernest)

�gDad�c�h (Kira)

That Archbishop from the Capital has been on his case ever since he married us. I�fd feel terrible if he lost his
position because of that.

�gNothing�fs more important than family, after all.�h (Ernest)

He gives me a warm smile while tousling Lara and Sophie�fs hair. Those two just nibble on their cookies without a
care.

�gBesides, it�fs not just you two anymore. I�fve married over twenty other couples like you since that day.�h
(Ernest)

�gReally? I thought I was the only one crazy enough to do something like that...�h (Kira)

�gHey now! I won�ft forgive anyone who claims my daughter is crazy! Even if it�fs you!�h (Ernest)

�gI like it when my moms go crazy though! Funny things happen every time when that happens!�h (Lara)

�gLara, please don�ft make it sound like that happens all the time�c�h (Kira)

I look imploringly at Sophie, silently asking for some support. She's a sharp kid, so she notices and puts on the
brightest smile she has. Here it comes! Sophie�fs wonderful words of-

�gIt�fs okay Mommy! We know you don�ft do it on purpose!�h (Sophie)

-complete acceptance.

�c

That�fs all well and good, but I wanted her to deny it!

�gGirls, don�ft tease your mother like that.�h (Ellie)

Ellie chimes in from my lap. I look down at her slightly livelier eyes and a grin naturally floats across my face.
�gFeeling better Ellie?�h (Kira)

�gA little. Still tired.�h (Ellie)

Well, it�fs not surprising. Nano said she ran all the way to the south gate and back to the shop in under 5 minutes.
That sort of distance should normally be a 40 minute walk, you know!

�gFufufu, should I carry you on my back again?�h (Kira)

Since today is mostly a family outing, she�fs actually wearing a casual outfit for once. So when I was giving her a
piggyback ride earlier, I was acutely aware of the soft mounds pressing against me. It was quite arou- I mean,
motivating.

�gYou don�ft mind?�h (Ellie)

I gently stroke her hair again. This sort of slightly insecure Ellie is cute too!

�gHow could I? Taking care of my lovely Ellie is one of my duties, you know ~?!�h (Kira)

Since I�fm the wife.

�gKiressara. I�fm proud of you.�h (Ernest)

�gHmm? What�fs this all of a sudden?�h (Kira)

�gWatching you two, I just realized I haven�ft actually said that.�h (Ernest)

�g...�h (Kira)

�gYou know... you two didn�ft have to get married to be together.�h (Ernest)

�gAs if I can accept that! Just knowing I'm married to Ellie fills me with joy. Exchanging those vows is one of the
happiest memories I have. Honestly, I love her so much I want to marry her several times over.�h (Kira)

Ellie blushes a bit when she hears that and her lips curl up slightly. Come to think of it, it�fs far too long since
I�fve clearly stated my feelings like that.

�gUh-huh. And these two bundles of joy? You would�fve taken them in regardless of my nosy prodding, right?
�h (Ernest)

He pats our daughters�f heads again. They stop munching on their cookies for a second and look up questioningly
at him. Looks like they're ignoring this conversation for the most part.

�gObviously. Come to think of it, your meddling at that time was completely unnecessary wasn�ft it?�h (Kira)

In the end both the �econditions�f he gave us were things we were going to do anyway.

�gWhat about that mercenary you were worried about? You crossed half the continent to get her back, right?�h
(Ernest)

�gWell yeah. It�fs natural to help out a friend in need, isn�ft it?�h (Kira)

Okay, it may have been a little more complicated, but that�fs ultimately what happened.
�gThat sort of thing is exactly why I�fm proud of you! Do you have any idea how worried I was for you ever
since you came back from the Magic Academy? You suddenly had this unapproachable air around you, this
overbearing sense of loneliness! Honestly, if I knew that was going to happen I never would�fve let you go there!
�h (Ernest)

Really? Was it that bad? I never even realized considering people kept harassing me all the time. That gradually
stopped ever since Ellie showed up, though.

�gAnd yet here you are, with a family of your own! I may be a bit harsh towards Ellie, but that�fs just my duty as
a father-in-law. Did you even realize you stopped addressing me with that stiff �eFather�f and are calling me
�edad�f like you used to before you left for that place?�h (Ernest)

No. No I did not. Actually, I started calling him that because I wanted to act more mature, right? Huh? Now that I
think about it, it doesn't make a lot of sense...

Dad nudges Lara and Sophie off his knees, gets up from his chair, walks over to me and puts a hand on my shoulder
with a gentle smile.

�gWelcome back, sweetie.�h (Ernest)

What? What�fs this suddenly nostalgic feeling? Why are my tears welling up? Did I go somewhere? No, there�fs
something I obviously have to say here, right?

�gI�fm ho-�h (Kira)

*SLAM*

�gHey! Red�fs dad! I need- Oh.�h (Kelly)

She barged in with a loud voice and froze mid-stride when she saw me.

�gKelly!?�h (Kira)

Her face is swollen, bruised and covered in blood. Her left arm isn�ft much better and is clutching her side, while
her metallic right arm has an odd dent in it. She�fs a total wreck! I expected some minor scrapes from that bar, but
this is much much worse than that!

�gExcuse us everyone, they told us to speak with the Bishop about hiring a healer. Kelly here has some broken
ribs, you see.�h (Brand)

Brand poked his head inside while I�fm still dumbfounded. His face also has a few bruises, but they�fre pretty
standard for a Thursday at that bar.

�gAh�c Right. I better go fetch one. I�fll be back shortly.�h (Ernest)

Dad walks towards the door with a difficult face. Doesn�ft seem to be an emergency, but the moment is thoroughly
ruined. I gently get up from under Ellie and motion the suspicious duo to follow me out of the room. I see Goldrim
and Rimgold nearby, carrying a keg under each arm.

Once we�fre out of earshot of the girls, I ask the big question.

�gWhat happened to her, Brand?�h (Kira)

I get the feeling Kelly will try to dodge the issue if I question her directly, so I ask the brother. He�fs been straight
with me so far.

�gKelly met our mother at the bar. Then the two of them then had several bouts of Drunken Fisticuffs. When that
was over, we got some ale for the road and now we�fre here.�h (Brand)

Okay�c Not what I was expecting. But that�fs fine. These things can happen. That's right, it�fs none of my
business. It doesn�ft concern me. It doesn�ft bother me. It bothers me. It bothers me a lot, actually!

�gYou had a fistfight with your own mother!?�h (Kira)

�gIt's a dwarf thing.�h (Kelly)

�gBrand?�h (Kira)

�gIt was quite the spectacle, to be honest! She was like an incarnation of stubborn tenacity and unbridled violence!
Not to mention those vicious blows! She didn�ft pull a single punch, despite beating her own flesh and blood into
an unrecognizable pulp! Rimgold was thoroughly impressed!�h (Brand)

I grow more and more mortified with each word! Is that poor old woman even alive?!

�gI don't agree with him though. In my opinion, Kelly was the more impressive one for being able to trade blows
with such a monster!�h (Brand)

I cover my face with both palms. I lost. I lost so hard that I don't think I have enough hands for this one.

The idea someone would fight their own mother like that got me pointlessly riled up. I almost forgot a punch to the
face is how these people says �ehello.�f It was the same with that uncle of hers back in Hell. So me getting
worked up over this was entirely my own fault.

�gNever mind. Just tell me one thing. Did you win?�h (Kira)

Kelly gives me a thumbs up. Her face is too messed up to tell, but I think that's a smile under there. I'm glad. She's
my friend and my employee, so of course I want her to win! The only problem is I'm not quite sure if this outcome is
a good thing or a bad thing.

�gAlthough, as a result, she now wants to come with us to the capital.�h (Kelly)

Yep, it�fs bad.

�gDenied. That sort of woman is not setting foot in my house. If she doesn�ft like it, she can hire a carriage.�h
(Kira)

�g Yes!�h (Kelly)

She... threw a fist into the air with an exaggerated motion?

�gFor a moment there I was worried you'd start spouting something about family and drag her along! I'm so glad
you had my back on this, Red!�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Kira)

Okay. Not the response I was expecting. Maybe they don�ft actually get along?
�gWe�fre leaving tonight, right? Hey Brand, let�fs just tell her to wait for us by the gate tomorrow morning.�h
(Kelly)

�gShe won�ft be happy about that, you know.�h (Brand)

�gAs if that old bat is even capable of happiness!�h (Kelly)

�gThat�fs a good point. But boundless fury and unreasonable grudges are things she IS capable of.�h (Brand)

�gSo what? I just need to grind her face into the ground again if she gets too cocky!�h (Kelly)

Okay, they definitely don�ft get along.

Chapter 101 - Trust, but verify - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> King Frederick Ferseit PoV <

That�fs a five, right? Yeah, that�fs five there. Definitely five. That makes this a three, then a four, then another
five. Hmm, then that would be two, right? No, could also be a one. Over here it�fs the same, and over there it�fs a
four or a seven. Damn, I need at least one more seven!

*SLAM*

�gYour Majesty!�h (Percy)

Percy barges into my study completely uninvited, looking all blonde, armored and captain-of-the-royal-guard-y.
Normally I�fd welcome the distraction, but the thing in my hands needs my undivided attention!

�gWhat is it Percy? I�fm rather busy.�h (Fred)

�gThere�fs an urgent situation that demands your attention! The lookouts spotted an unidentified shadow over the
clouds! It may be a surprise attack!�h (Percy)

Oh, now this seems rather promising! The last time Percy said something like that I got to see an Elder Dragon get
knocked out of the sky!

�gReally now? I must see to this at once!�h (Fred)

I stand up and leave the paper on my desk behind. My concentration�fs gone anyway, so I�fll finish it later. I head
out of the door and walk down the hallway, Percy following close behind.

�gWhere�fs this shadow coming from?�h (Fred)

�gDirectly from above, sire!�h (Percy)

Okay. That�fs new. The Capital�fs surrounded by the Mirelian ocean on three sides, so if anything�fs coming at
us, it�fs usually from the North. I turn towards a different corridor, heading for the closest balcony. This is
something I have to see with my own eyes!

�gWhat�fs the state of the city�fs defenses?�h (Fred)

�gThe barrier isn�ft back at full strength yet, sire. We can still bring it up if you will it.�h (Percy)

�gLet us make sure this is an enemy first, shall we?�h (Fred)

�gYes, Your Majesty!�h (Percy)

The barrier, huh? That overgrown lizard really did a number on it. Or so I�fm told, anyway. The wand-twirlers
claim he depleted almost all of the stored magic in the attack, so it would take a long while to recharge completely.
That spell was supposed to hold out for close to a month under siege. I doubt the Elder Dragon was actually that
powerful, though.

Experience tells me there�fs something unethical going on, like stalling for time so they get paid more to recharge
it. They probably thought nobody would notice since we haven�ft had to actually use that thing in over a decade,
but this slacking of theirs just might cost us dearly!
I�fll leave those for later, I�fve just reached the balcony in question. Hmm?

�gShalia?�h (Fred)

Seems she was having tea while reading something. Hearing me call out to her, she turns around with a
pleasant smile that disappears the instant that she notices Percy.

�gGood day, Your Majesty, Ser Percival. Do you require something of me?�h (Shalia)

So stiff! I wish this daughter of mine could just be herself. She�fs taking this princess thing too seriously! She
should just elope with some dashing rogue so I can pretend to hunt them down while they live in peace. After she
becomes of age, of course.

�gNot right now, Shalia!�h (Fred)

Almost forgot this is still an emergency! It's a bit rude of me but she'll understand. My eyes look up at the partly
cloudy sky, but I can't quite see anything out of place.

�gYour Majesty, there!�h (Percy)

Shalia and I both look towards where old Percy is pointing at. Hmm? Oh, I see it! Well, it�fs more of a grain than a
shadow at this distance, but there�fs something there to be sure! It�fs coming down at us from quite far up.

�gAny response from the Flight Badge detector?�h (Fred)

�gI�fm told that thing is out of range, sire.�h (Percy)

�gThen go and wait for it to get into range! Come back and report to me the instant you know something! Also, I
give you permission to activate the Barrier on my behalf, should you judge it necessary!�h (Fred)

Can�ft be too careful. Excitement or not, I do have a responsibility to my people.

�gAt once, sire!�h (Percy)

Percy bolts down the hallway. It�fs fine to leave that matter to him, it was his timely judgement that prevented
damage from that blasted dragon in the first place. I close the door to the balcony so we can be away from prying
eyes. Now Shalia can speak freely.

�gSo what�fs this all about, daddy?�h (Shalia)

�gLookouts spotted something flying towards the city. Most likely that thing.�h (Fred)

�gThat thing? I can barely see it!�h (Shalia)

I really question why Raela raised her this way. It�fs pretty sad to see a young girl chained down by these social
constraints. Kids should be more spoiled, damn it!

We stare at the grain-sized shadow as it draws closer. I can't make out any details, but there�fs no wings and it
seems to be moving rather slowly. It takes several minutes before it gets low enough for me to tell what it actually
is.

�c
It�fs a flying chunk of rock? I think I see something on top of it�c a tower? It�fs rather foreboding. The city's
defensive barrier isn't up yet so that probably-

*SLAM*

�gYour Majesty!�h (Percy)

Percy really needs to stop barging through doors It was endearing at first, but doing it all the time is getting to be
annoying.

�gWe just confirmed the presence of three Flight Badges! All of them were issued recently to Lady Kiressara mil
Quasse!�h (Percy)

�gHah. Haa haa haa haa haaa!�h (Fred)

That woman! As expected she�fs amusing! When we were discussing the plans for the future, she was adamant
about refusing to leave her home behind, yet still wanted to work in the Capital! I had no idea this is what she
meant!

�gNow there's something you don't see every day!�h (Fred)

�gYour Majesty, what should we do? It doesn�ft seem to be attacking us, but it�fs clearly suspicious!�h (Percy)

�gNonsense! Mrs Quasse is our honored guest! Have those wand-twirlers stand down! If we make an enemy of that
woman she�fs liable to sink this puny city into the ocean!�h (Fred)

Percy�fs normally stoic face seems to be gripped with despair. Ah�c he went and took my joke seriously.

�gAt once, Your Majesty!�h (Percy)

He bolts away as if his life depended on it. Was this because I let him read the MI�fs threat assessment on her?

I mean, if he actually spoke to the girl he�fd realize there�fs no way she�fd allow herself to hurt innocent people
like that. Someone powerful enough to break a mountain, yet choosing the path of humility.

As expected, amusing!

***

�gWait, she actually did break a mountain?�h (Fred)

�gOh yeah! In less than a minute, too!�h (Kelly)

�gWhat possible reason would there be for something like that!?�h (Fred)

�gShe couldn�ft find the door.�h (Kelly)

�gHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!�h (Fred)

�gKelly! Please don�ft say misleading things like that!�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs exactly what happened, though.�h (Ellie)

I knew it! Throwing another impromptu banquet for this group really was the best! This story of theirs is quite
excellent! Shalia was also delighted to see her playmates and they ran off together somewhere.

�gThere was a giant metal spider! It was an emergency, okay!?�h (Kira)

�gGiant spider!? How terrifying!�h (Queen Raela Ferseit)

Wow, they even got a reaction out of my wife!

�gDidn�ft stand a chance, though. It got squashed completely.�h (Kelly)

�gSo then you succeeded in waking up that titan of yours?�h (Fred)

�gOh yeah! She�fs pretty great, you know? She gave me a new arm, see?�h (Kelly)

She rolled up the sleeve on her right arm, revealing the gleaming skin beneath.

�gIs that�c Mithril?!�h (Fred)

�gGood eyes, Freddy! Yeah, making metal move as if it�fs alive is what the Steelmother does best! Well, that and
boss people around. She said this was a special service since I fought well for her sake.�h (Kelly)

Amazing! I�fve not been privy to titan artifacts before, but this is beyond words! However, I should give her a
stern warning.

�gKelly. I advise you not to show that off too much.�h (Fred)

�gHow come?�h (Kelly)

�gIf people found out there�fs a way to recover lost limbs, they�fd flock to Ecebis in droves.�h (Fred)

�gAh�c you got a point there. I�fll keep it in mind. �h (Kelly)

Good. That sort of thing is dangerous, misguided rumors would spread like wildfire. I don�ft need my subjects
suddenly crowding that place�fs gates. Ecebis is a complete unknown, so I need to be wary until we can establish
formal treaties. Speaking of which!

�gWould�ft want to trouble those guys after they just opened the border.�h (Kelly)

�g... So they really opened up the gate that had been sealed tight for over a thousand years?�h (Fred)

�gTechnically I'm the one who broke it, though...�h (Kelly)

�gWhat Kelly means to say is that Your Majesty is correct. That�fs actually the most important part of our visit -
we brought along a dwarven delegation from Ecebis. They�fre waiting patiently to be granted an audience with
Your Majesty.�h (Kira)

�gWhat, just like that?�h (Fred)

This is highly suspicious, to say the least. Although not entirely unwelcome if it were true.

�gTheir Steelmother told them to do it, so they did. They mentioned something about how they had been prepared
for this eventuality. Something Your Majesty may have had a hand in.�h (Kira)

Ah, that could be it. I did send ambassadors every few years to see if they would speak to us, but we were curtly
denied every time.

�gAnd what does this delegation consist of?�h (Fred)

�gTwo senators and an officer from their army. They�fve brought with them quite a bit of weaponry, materials
and gifts since they intended to forge good relations and trade agreements between Ferseit and Ecebis.�h (Kira)

Senators, huh? Hearing her say that is a good sign. Very few people outside that rock know how that peculiar
regent-less country governs itself. The only reason I know is that MI spent quite a lot of time interrogating various
so-called �eexiled�f dwarves about it. It seems to work for them, though.

�gHmm�c I see�c�h (Fred)

Truthfully, a king is mostly needed as a symbol rather than a governing body. I mean, barely have to do anything
myself - I just state my intentions for the country and the ministers do all of the work. It sounded like this
Steelmother is fulfilling more or less the same role over there.

�gStill, I hope you understand this is something I find extremely difficult to believe. Are these would-be senators
willing to submit to one of MI�fs interrogations?�h (Fred)

An interrogator�fs lie-revealing magic tools are infamous for how accurate they are. Just knowing those exist is
enough for most people to come clean.

Raela gives me a difficult look. She understands what I�fm implying, but Mrs Quasse seems unfazed.

�gThey should have brought official documents and letters of introduction with them. Is that not enough?�h
(Kira)

�gEven if they did bring them, I wouldn�ft be able to recognize any of the seals.�h (Fred)

�gI understand. In that case I�fll make sure they accept the interrogation with no complaints.�h (Kira)

�gWill it really be that easy to convince them?�h (Fred)

The actual interrogation process is harmless, but it�fs highly insulting. Asking someone to submit to that sort of
thing is the same as saying you have absolutely no trust in them. Well, that�fs exactly the case, though. I don�ft
trust anyone other than my wife and daughter. And my son, to a lesser degree. He somehow came to idolize that fool
Rutland, I need to be wary of that boy for the time being.

�gThey don�ft have a choice. I made them promise me they would do everything I tell them while in the
capital.�h (Kira)

�gReally now? And what makes you sure they�fd keep such a promise?�h (Fred)

Senators are basically temporary nobles, which doesn�ft strike me as being particularly trustworthy.

�gMy wife knows about it. And they know she knows about it. Ellie�fs been... tempering their honesty over the
last ten days, you see.�h (Kira)

�gHmm?�h (Ellie)

Her wife stopped stuffing herself with meat and looked around with slightly full cheeks. I guess she was engrossed
in the wonderful taste of dragon steak and wasn�ft paying attention. She can be quite adorable considering how
merciless she is to her enemies. That reminds me-
�gActually, I wanted to thank Lady Ellie about introducing me to those mental exercises!�h (Fred)

�gDear, do you mean those papers you�fve been obsessing over lately?�h (Raela)

�gYes, those! It looks simple at first, but it�fs quite challenging and stimulating.�h (Fred)

�gSo young Ellie here came up with something like that? How remarkable!�h (Raela)

Back during our two-day long discussion, I selfishly mentioned I wanted something to pass the time quietly. Then,
several hours later, Lady Ellie handed me a stack of paper and introduced me to this wonderful new game! As
expected of the (future) Ministry of Progress!

Well, I call it a �emental exercise�f so Raela would stop getting mad at me for wasting my time on pointless
things. Even though that�fs exactly what I�fm doing.

�gNot really. *Munch munch* Nano taught me. *Munch munch* I just enjoy doing them.�h (Ellie)

I see, slight misunderstanding on my part. It�fs still quite impressive. This Nano person sounds like a learned
scholar, I hope to meet them soon!

�gOh, and I�fve actually solved almost all of them, so could I trouble you for more of those Sudoku puzzles?�h
(Fred)

It took a while for it to get approved, but here it is - Binary Soul: Lip Service. Hope you fellas enjoy reading that as
much as I enjoyed writing it!
Today's chapter brought to you by an infuriating sudoku puzzle that I wasted 90 minutes on before I rage quit. Damn
7s, man!
Chapter 102 - Everybody gets at least a little nervous when applying for
a new job - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gOh! Good day Kiressara. All by yourself?�h (Bork)

Bork meets me at the gate. I had one of the servants call for him, since I didn�ft want to be rude. Unlike a certain
dwarf-shaped battering ram.

�gGood day Bork. Yes, just me today.�h (Kira)

Ellie and the girls are having a nice walk around the capital. Kelly on the other hand is off getting drunk somewhere
before noon. Again.

�gLet me guess, here to speak with the senators?�h (Bork)

He sounds really annoyed. Maybe they�fre not behaving themselves like I told them?

�gThey didn�ft do something outrageous, right?�h (Kira)

�gThey want to turn my house into an embassy! They won't shut up about it! But I�fm not gonna let them! This
arrangement was supposed to be temporary, right?�h (Bork)

�gThose two�c Don�ft worry, I�fll do something about it.�h (Kira)

�gAppreciate it. Now then, let�fs not stand around out here, come inside.�h (Bork)

He invites me into his home. Admittedly standing around at the front gate was getting a bit awkward. He walks
towards across the mansion grounds and I follow him.

�gI just want to say thanks again for putting up with my selfishness.�h (Kira)

We sort of pushed the dwarven delegation onto him. They can�ft easily come and go from our flying tower, and we
can�ft make a good enough landing spot around here. I mean we can, but then we�fd either have giant hole in the
middle of the capital or have one just outside the pearly white walls.

The king was fine with it, but the queen gave me an icy cold stare when the topic came up.

�gWell, I can hardly deny the people who helped break the Chains from me and my kin. Maybe now I can finally
flourish as a merchant instead of wasting my gold on collecting worthless rumors.�h (Bork)

That�fs right isn�ft it? Those [Chains That Bind] compelled them to collect information for the sake of waking
that titan. I was honestly appalled when Kelly mentioned them at first, but it was actually closer to a responsibility
they couldn�ft run away from rather than outright slavery.

�gBrand doesn�ft seem to mind one way or another, though?�h (Kira)

�gAye, there�fs a lot in our clan who are like that. Think it�fs their sacred duty or purpose in life. That dutiful
guy is definitely one of them.�h (Bork)

�gHow�fs his gryphon doing?�h (Kira)

�gSeems healthy enough. He started flying around earlier this morning.�h (Bork)

�gI would�fve waited longer with unloading all those crates if I knew that was going to happen�c�h (Kira)

Ellie and I had to pretty much fly them all down by ourselves. I�fm not suited for manual labor like that! Even with
magic, heavy things are heavy! Nano tried to explain how come they still felt heavy even though I used [Null
Gravity] on them, but it didn�ft make any sense at all!

�gYou should know it was no coincidence. He probably realized you would put him to work the minute he got
better, so he faked it until you were done.�h (Bork)

�gWHAT!? That lazy- Wait, are they really that smart?�h (Kira)

�gFor sure. They may not be able to speak, but they can understand our words. A few of my business partners use
them as couriers, so I know a good deal about them.�h (Bork)

�gI see, I underestimated it. This was a good lesson.�h (Kira)

In that case, raising them might just be as easy as Brand said. Well, the Falcon Gryphon egg we gave to the kids is
going to hatch soon, so we�fll experience it firsthand in no time at all. Seems if both of them supply mana by
simultaneously touching the egg, both will be imprinted on the gryphon. Ellie and I are doing the same with the
Winter Gryphon egg.

Bork guides me to the living room and then leaves. Seems he doesn�ft want to get roped into anything.

�gOh! Good to see you Madam! Anything I can help you with?�h (Goldrim)

Right, I should start by telling them about the interrogation thing. They don't have much of a choice in the matter
anyway.

�gA few things. First of all, about our dinner with the king yesterday-�h (Kira)

***

�gAlright, Mrs Quasse. We will agree to your conditions.�h (Rimgold)

�gWe�fd be crazy not to. The worst thing that happens is we wasted the Major�fs time.�h (Goldrim)

Finally! I slump back into the sofa and close my eyes.

That was a long discussion. It took some doing to convince them the [Dowsing] spell can be used to find Titansteel
in the ground. Normally it�fs used to find underground water for wells, but since Titansteel repels the mana wave,
you can pinpoint it quite easily. I already tested it by burying that pot of ours, so the method should work for the ore
back in Ecebis.

Those Legion guys have loads of mages, golems and engineers, so digging through loads of solid rock is no big deal.
Actually finding the stuff is the hard part. Like this, their supply of Titansteel should increase. Hopefully it will
increase enough for them to get a surplus. Then I can then buy that off them with a supply contract.

Since I�fm sending them this idea, along with an instructor from the Magic Academy to teach them the spell, I
expect to get a good price on that contract! Also, that instructor owes me a big favor for that �eMissing Robe
Incident�f so he should do a proper job.
�gI must say, I�fm still quite curious why exactly you need so much of this metal.�h (Goldrim)

�g... It�fs not about making Titansteel ladles, right?�h (Rimgold)

�gHeh. Or Titansteel kitchen knives, perhaps?�h (Goldrim)

�gHaha! My guess is a legendary Titansteel tea set!�h (Rimgold)

The two share a few dry chuckles at my expense. They�fre still sore about using their precious super-metal to make
a cooking pot. I�fm not melting it down though! My Ellie�fs happiness is way more precious than some lump of
fancy iron!

�gI�fm not at liberty to say the reason. State secret.�h (Kira)

I threw one of Goldrim�fs favorite lines at them. They glance at each other and back to me several times.

�gVery well. Major, prepare your mount, you�fre leaving tomorrow!�h (Rimgold)

�gYes, Senator!�h (Brand)

�gThank you, Rimgold. I expect good news.�h (Kira)

Thankfully, Brand agreed to transport the instructor and the method using Shull�fs wings. That way I can get a
report on whether a Titansteel supply contract is possible before the 13th month rolls around in 7 weeks. It�fs
important since I need to know whether to request extra funding on behalf of the (future) Ministry of Progress so we
can afford that contract.

I mean, I could go myself, but I have other duties I really shouldn�ft ignore right now. The King already agreed to
many of my selfish demands so I can�ft make any more of them.

�gTruthfully, I�fm looking forward to seeing whatever your creation is in action.�h (Goldrim)

�gSo am I, Senator. So am I.�h (Kira)

I flash them a tired smile. The small-scale prototype looks promising. As usual, Nano�fs precision with all those
moving parts is breathtaking. The problem is that we need unreasonable amounts of Titansteel if we want to mass-
produce it.

But if everything works out, we�fre looking at a very bright future indeed!

{�gKira, are you done at Bork�fs place?�h} (Ellie)

�gYes, mostly.�h (Kira)

�gMrs Quasse?�h (Rimgold)

Ah, I keep forgetting I look like I�fm talking to myself when we speak with the ear-cuffs.

{�gI�fm on my way over, you should leave that house and head South! I�fll meet you on the way!�h} (Ellie)

�gSomething urgent came up, I�fll be going now!�h (Kira)

I excuse myself from the room and head off towards Ellie. Once I�fm out of earshot, I resume my conversation.
�gWhat�fs going on over there, Ellie?�h (Kira)

{�gThat yellow bird lady started acting all weird when she saw me walking by!�h} (Ellie)

�gYellow bird lady? You mean that [Yellow Sage]?�h (Kira)

Well, they did confirm that the Court Wizard was using something called a Band of Domination to enslave her
somehow, so she�fs not really at fault. In the end they released her without too much trouble. I slightly vouched for
her as well - it's partly our fault that guy got the magic ring in the first place.

{�gYes, her! She won�ft leave us alone and is begging to see you!�h} (Ellie)

�gWhat, me? Why me?�h (Kira)

{�gSomething about responsibility, since you�fre the leader!�h} (Ellie)

This is bad, did she come back for some misguided revenge?

�gAlright, I�fm on my way due South. Actually, how come you didn�ft just chase her off?�h (Kira)

{�gI tried! I broke her arm when she tried to grab my collar, but she just healed it with magic and kept following
me! Even running across the rooftops is no use! She�fs way too creepy!�h} (Ellie)

Erk! Someone who�fs immune to Ellie�fs vio- I mean, acting! Such a fearsome opponent! It's strange though,
Ellie should be able to overpower her if push came to shove...

{�gAh I see you! Look up and to your left!�h} (Ellie)

I do as she says and notice her leap from a building. She�fs holding onto Sophie and Lara in her arms!

�gYaaaay!�h (Sophie)

�gHey Mooom!�h (Lara)

�c At least they�fre having fun, I guess.

�gWAAAAIT! PLEEEASE WAAAIT!�h (Yellow Sage)

A low-flying yellow-feathered avian woman is chasing her while screaming. That�fs her alright. She�fs using the
same dull-looking leather armor and metal wand she had back then.

�gKiraaa! Save mee!�h (Ellie)

Ellie lands nearby and quickly hides behind me. No, I�fm sure she can overpower that bird even completely bare
handed, so why do I have to be a shield?

�gAh! Found youuu!�h (Yellow Sage)

She dives low to street level and starts flying centimeters from the ground! The startled bystanders part before her so
she doesn�ft crash into her, but she�fs definitely headed right towards me!

�g --- [Barrier]�h (Kira)

I manage to bring up a small barrier around us just before she-

*SLAM*

�gUfuuu!�h (Yellow Sage)

-slams face first into it like a wall.

�gOww! Heee, heee, huuu�c�h (Yellow Sage)

She�fs rolling around on the ground while clutching her face and making strange noises. What�fs going on!? I
look over my shoulder at Ellie, but she just shakes her head repeatedly.

�gMistress! I finally found you!�h (Yellow Sage)

Ugeh! She jumped up and is hugging my semi-transparent barrier! She�fs�c rubbing her face against it with a
wide open smile. Okay, I agree with Ellie, she�fs creepy!

�gW-wait, what did you just call me?�h (Kira)

�gAh! How rude of me!�h (Yellow Sage)

Suddenly this bird-lady bolts upright, takes a few steps back and kneels down on the ground while sitting on her
ankles. Okay, it doesn�ft seem to be hostility. Whatever IT is.

�gForgive me, Mistress. This unworthy one is known as Ariel Noko, the [Yellow Sage]. I who owe a life debt to
you hereby pledge myself into your service!�h (Ariel)

She bends forward all the way like she�fs praying. Even her wings are lowered all the way so they touch the
ground!

�g...�h (Kira)

I got slightly mesmerized by that melodic voice of hers. I�fm behind a [Barrier] so it�fs not like her magic is
affecting me. Is that her normal voice? It�fs quite-

�gWait wait wait!�h (Kira)

I wave my hand in a panic! I just realized, but this is pretty much a proposal, isn�ft it?!

�gI�fm married you know! Very happily I might add!�h (Kira)

�gMistress misunderstands! This one does not dare to presume she may stand by Mistress�f side! This one merely
wishes to serve under Mistress�f boots!�h (Ariel)

She speaks hurriedly without lifting her gaze. Okay. A pledge of�c loyalty, I guess? But why? What was it she
called it?

�g... What did you mean by life debt?�h (Kira)

�gMistress did not only defeat the one who had enslaved me, she also spared my life thrice. Once through her
gentle touch. Once more through her instruction. A final time through her compassion.�h (Ariel)

Okay. She remembers that fight, apparently. I guess she really was conscious on some level at the time.
�gA servant is a bit�c I don�ft really feel comfortable lording over people.�h (Kira)

�gWhat are you saying, Mom!? You love bossing people around!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! You look really lively when you order Kelly around!�h (Sophie)

�gIt�fs true! Kira shines ever brighter when she�fs being strict! She�fs a natural born leader!�h (Ellie)

�gYou three be quiet!�h (Kira)

I raised my voice a bit out of frustration! What sort of conspiracy is this!? These peanut gallery remarks aren�ft
helping!

�gAs expected, Mistress�f wonderful voice is full of force and authority! This one would be honored, no
privileged, if she could serve with her entire being!�h (Ariel)

Ack! I actually proved their point!

�gWill you lift your head already! People are staring!�h (Kira)

�gAs the Mistress commands!�h (Ariel)

And she bolts upright again. Haaah. Well, at least she�fs not burying her face in the dirt anymore. We�fre getting
nowhere like this, though. She�fs an adventurer, right? So let�fs handle this like fellow adventurers!

�gOkay, instead of servant, how about you apply to officially become part of our adventurer team - [Black
Flame]?�h (Kira)

It�fs hardly the first time. There have been dozens of applicants, it�fs just that all of them got rejected due to lack
of ability or lack of humility. The vast majority failed the Ellie Test almost immediately.

�gWould that put this one firmly beneath her Mistress�f command?�h (Ariel)

�gUmm�c that�fs not entirely wrong�c�h (Kira)

�gThen this one wishes to join Mistress�f team as a lowly underling!�h (Ariel)

�c

Come on, Kiressara! You decided to go through with this! Let�fs just find a good reason to reject her so she
won�ft come back! Though preferably, not in the middle of the road.

�gAlright then. Follow us to our base and we can properly do the interview.�h (Kira)

�gAs the Mistress commands.�h (Ariel)

�gStop that! A simple �eyes�f will do!�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

I�fm already regretting this.

Hmm, I'm not convinced with Ariel's speech pattern. Something tells me it's going to get annoying...
Chapter 103 - Birds of a feather flock together - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Kira PoV <

We each take a seat in the living room. I�fm on the sofa, Ellie is to my right and Kelly is to my left. I�fve asked
the kids to stay out of here for a while. Seeing how Ariel is bowing on one knee while looking at the floor, I have a
feeling something very stupid is about to take place.

�gNow then, Ariel-�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress!?�h (Ariel)

�gPlease don�ft interrupt me like that.�h (Kira)

�gMy deepest apologies, Mistress! This one will engrave your words onto her heart!�h (Ariel)

I massage my temples in exasperation.

�gWhat in blazes have ya gone and done this time, Red?�h (Kelly)

�gShe said something about a life debt and pledging herself to my service�c�h (Kira)

�gWell, you�fve gone and done it now. You know these guys are all prideful and honor-bound, right? They�fre
way worse than someone like Brand. She�fs going to follow after you whether you like it or not.�h (Kelly)

�gYes, I got that impression. For now let�fs just focus on getting this over with.�h (Kira)

Kelly rolls her eyes and leans back in the sofa. Well, that sort of attitude is why I normally exclude her from these
interviews, but she�fs much more familiar with Ariel�fs people than I am. She seemed rather prejudiced against
them, now that I think about it�c I�fll deal with that later if need be.

I turn back to Ariel and clear my throat.

�gAlright, for starters, show me your Adventurer�fs Card.�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

She reaches into her clothes and hands me her card. Hey. That�fs a Rank A card, isn�ft it? That golden border
around the edges of the card means it�fs a Rank A card, doesn�ft it!? I nervously take it from her.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Ariel Noko
Titles: Beacon of Enuri, Yellow Sage
Team: None
Position: Support
Rank: A
Perk: Free Pass
Status: Active
--------------------------------------------------------------

Yep! Rank A! What�fs going on!? Is this real? It�fs turning red in my hands, so it's definitely real!
Okay, calm down Kiressara! You can�ft show weakness here! Break down the problem into smaller problems and
deal with those! First, that unknown title!

�gWhat is the meaning of this [Beacon of Enuri] title?�h (Kira)

�gThis one is a sister in the Church of Enuri in addition to being an adventurer. The Church and the Guild have
both recognized this one as a missionary of Enuri.�h (Ariel)

She�fs from the church, huh? Ellie did say she healed herself with magic, right?! This�c isn�ft this a good
chance? If we had her around then we wouldn�ft need to rely on Nano�fs limited reserves of medicine or those
awful-tasting potions! Also if she made it to Rank A, then she should have considerable skill!

�gOkay, what about you being the [Yellow Sage]? I didn�ft hear about you until rather recently.�h (Kira)

Rumors and gossip about famous adventurers spread quickly, so it�fs odd that we didn�ft catch wind of her
sooner.

�gThis one has been the [Yellow Sage] for several years, but this one was active within the City State Alliance
until recently.�h (Ariel)

I see. If she�fs from outside the country, then that makes sense. The Adventurer�fs Guild may be an organization
without borders, but that doesn�ft mean information flows freely.

�gSo then, why did you choose a Free Pass?�h (Kira)

This Perk of hers is pretty unusual though, isn�ft it? I mean, it�fs a special privilege awarded to Rank A
adventurers by the guild. There�fs about a dozen of these to choose from and the guild will do its best to
accommodate. It�fs one of the main incentives to break through the wall of Rank B.

�gIt may be called the City States Allience, but each of the 15 cities thinks itself independent. This one wished to
travel and spread the Light of Enuri, therefore a Free Pass was most convenient.�h (Ariel)

I see. If you think of each city as a nation, then you would have to go through many border checks. Having a Free
Pass means they just wave you through checkpoints and the guild will bear full responsibility for any consequences.
Although, this only applies to places that actually recognize the Adventurer�fs Guild as a trustworthy organization

�gAre you really not part of a team?�h (Kira)

�gThis one�fs former team, [The Quartet] was disbanded on order of the Court Wizard.�h (Ariel)

�gH-how long ago did that happenl?�h (Kira)

�gJust under six months, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

As I thought. That�fs around the time we retrieved that Band of Domination from the Monster Hole. If I knew what
it was, then that whole mess with the Court Wizard and the Elder Dragon could�fve been avoided! Either way, I
don't need this fact coming back to bite me later, so let�fs get this one out of the way!

�gYou do know it was basically my fault the Court Wizard got his hands on that ring and put you in that situation,
right?�h (Kira)

�gMistress is too kind. Mistress is not at fault for the actions of that lowly piece of trash that would presume itself
to be above her!�h (Ariel)
�gShe has a point. That old fart would have still done something bad, regardless of what we did.�h (Ellie)

�gReally, Ellie? You don�ft have any problems with this girl?�h (Kira)

�gShe is sincere in her wish to serve Kira with all her might. It�fs not something bad, right?�h (Ellie)

�gBut she creeped you out, didn�ft she?�h (Kira)

�gHer head was full of weird things. Not bad, just strange. But it seemed to calm down when she met you.�h
(Ellie)

It seems she passed the Ellie Test. That was unexpected! I was counting on Ellie rejecting her so that I wouldn�ft
have to accept this!

�gIt is true. This one was searching for Mistress for so long that this one became desperate when she recognized
Mistress's chosen one from the rumors. That desperation vanished when this one was able to pledge her life properly
to her one and only Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�g... Shouldn�ft you be trying to reconnect with your old comrades instead?�h (Kira)

�gThose people are scum! They did not even question this one�fs abnormal behavior, unlike Mistress who
discerned the truth with but a glance! The worthless trash that abandoned me are not worthy of even licking the dirt
beneath Mistress�fs feet!�h (Ariel)

�gUgh!�h (Kira)

I recoiled slightly at those venomous words! Seems she�fs holding a sizable grudge!

�gOkay Red. What did you do?�h (Kelly)

�gWhat did I do?�h (Kira)

�gThese bird-folk may be honor bound, but they're way too full of themselves. This one, on the other
hand, practically worships you! It�fs way too extreme!�h (Kelly)

�gUm�c okay? But it�fs a life debt thing, so isn�ft this normal?�h (Kira)

�gKira, listen to me. A life debt is a sentence to these arrogant bastards! Their honor and pride demand they serve
faithfully until they pay it back, but that doesn�ft mean they have to like it! Most avians look down on other
species, so a life debt to someone from another race is considered a mark of great shame! They will turn on those
they serve the instant they feel it�fs been repaid!�h (Kelly)

�gHoh ho! Is that so?�h (Kira)

I instantly become suspicious. Ellie�fs mind-reading may be reliable, but it isn�ft flawless. She said so herself.
Let's probe her with some questions, that way the truth will be revealed. Ariel still won�ft look me in the eye and is
staring steadfastly at the floor, so I need to put some pressure on her.

I get up from my seat and stand in front of her with arms crossed while staring down at the back of her head. As if
sensing my gaze, she seems to tremble slightly. Is she hiding something after all? I have to be firm here!

�gPlanning to betray me, are you?�h (Kira)

�gThis one would not dare! This one would rather slit her own throat than betray her Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gThen tell me this - how do you actually feel about me?�h (Kira)

�gMistress is this one�fs only reason for being! Mistress�fs words are laws that this one will happily and
faithfully adhere to no matter the cost!�h (Ariel)

�gSee!? That sort of groveling behavior towards us �eground-monkeys�f is unheard of!�h (Kelly)

�gReally now? And how does Ariel feel about Kelly?�h (Kira)

�gIs she the one who wears the invincible armament known as Scrappy?�h (Ariel)

�eInvincible armament�f huh? I throw a side glance at Kelly, but she averts her eyes. Looks like she�fs been
bragging a bit too much.

�gYes, that�fs her.�h (Kira)

�gSomeone who is able to stand on the same level as Mistress is without question above this one in the pecking
order.�h (Ariel)

�gPecking order? Really?�h (Kira)

�gIt's a custom of this one�fs culture, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

�gNever mind. Then what about Ellie and my daughters?�h (Kira)

�gAs the Mistress�fs chosen one and precious offspring, they are irreplacable existences that this incompetent one
must strive to protect at any and all cost!�h (Ariel)

I glance back at Ellie, exchanging a few knowing looks. Seems she isn�ft lying so far. I still can�ft say I trust her
though.

�gNano, thoughts?�h (Kira)

{She seems sincere enough to me and she sounds like she could be an asset. In short, no objections.}

�gEllie?�h (Kira)

�gNo objections.�h (Ellie)

To be honest, at this point other than her behavior I have no real objections either.

�gKelly?�h (Kira)

�gI don�ft know. I don�ft like these guys on principle, but her way of thinking is clearly different. Which is a
good thing, mind you. The life debt thing sounds like an excuse, though. Did you ask her the real reason why
she�fs pledging herself like this?�h (Kelly)

�gGood question! Answer it!�h (Kira)

�gWhen Mistress faced this one in battle, Mistress grabbed this unworthy one's head and thoroughly incapacitated
this one with a masterful display of magic! That forceful spell resounded right to this one�fs very core! It was the
first time this one had been so thoroughly and completely shown her rightful place - right at her Mistress�fs feet!
Hnnnn!�h (Ariel)

When I disabled her with a short-range [Shock] spell? It may be painful, but surely not that big a deal, right?

�gAnd when this one was then forced to assume an eye level unbefitting of this one�fs station, she was
immediately dragged through the dirt, bound and abandoned! A just and deserving punishment for her crime!
Haaah, haah!" (Ariel)

Wait, she means when Kelly knocked her out from mid-flight and I shackled her with Earth magic? That's just
natural when subduing a criminal, isn�ft it?

�gAnd then, after months of fruitless and desperate searching for her Mistress, this one dared to approach her
without permission and was once again- Hnng! - punished!�h (Ariel)

�gYou ran face-first into my spell all on your own!�h (Kira)

Her breathing is getting even more ragged. I can't see her face but her skin is tinting ever so slightly red. Is she�c
getting excited from that? Ack! Ellie is hiding behind the couch now! So this is what she meant by weird thoughts!

�gNo good. This girl is no good! She�fs completely not right in the head!�h (Kira)

�gHahnnn! This is so! This one deserves to be punished! Please Mistress! Thoroughly grind this lowly servant
under Mistress�fs magnificent heel!�h (Ariel)

She drops on all fours and starts groveling at my feet again!

�gEugh! No! Stay away from me! Don�ft come near me, you perverted freak!�h (Kira)

�gHnnnn! Please! Mistress! This one deserves to be punished!�h (Ariel)

�gYour application is denied! Completely and absolutely DEEEENIED!�h (Kira)

�gHaauuuu! To show a glimmer of hope before crushing it completely! As expected of this one�fs Mistress!�h
(Ariel)

�gGAAH! Ellie! Kelly! Help me out here!�h (Kira)

�gKira�fs fault.�h (Ellie)

�gEllie�fs right. Whether you wanted to or not, you�fre clearly the one who broke her..�h (Kelly)

No, I have a feeling she was already like this when we found her!

{Kira, it would be dangerous to reject her like this. She�fs unstable. She�fs liable to hurt herself.}

�gSo you�fre saying we should take her in despite how rotten her head is?!�h (Kira)

�gGuh! Mistreesss!�h (Ariel)

�gI said don�ft touch me!�h

*STOMP*

�gAAAARGH!�h (Ariel)
She grabbed my ankle and I freaked out! I stomped on her hand! This isn�ft good! This is definitely not good!

�gYes! Punish this one for she has been disrespectful towards her Mistress!�h (Ariel)

Yep! It was definitely not good!

�gBe quiet! I order you to sit there and be quiet!�h (Kira)

�gHnn! Haah. Y-yes, Mistress�c�h (Ariel)

She resumes that same kneeling position she had before. I should have just done that from the start! Except that now
she�fs openly fidgeting and her breathing is getting rougher!

�gNo way! I cannot accept a deviant like this into this household! What if she has some weird influence on Sophie
and Lara?�h (Kira)

It was a good thing to have them wait outside. I don�ft want them to see something like this!

�gRed, sorry to burst your bubble, but when�fs the last time you looked around?�h (Kelly)

�g... What?�h (Kira)

�gI�fm a one armed violent alcoholic. Ellie�fs a psychopath from another world. Nano�fs an invisible peeper
with a penchant for explosions. You�fre a woman-shaped walking cataclysm.�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Kira)

�gAnd while this bird-brain gets excited when you �epunish�f her, she�fs still a missionary of the church!
Objectively speaking, she�fs probably the most respectable adult around here! Sweet Steelmother I�fm defending
a perverted canary! I need a drink... I need ALL the drinks!�h (Kelly)

She storms off out of the room and towards the kitchen. The silence in the room (apart from the heavy panting next
to me) is rather deafening.

�gHaah. I knew I was going to regret this. Nano, cuff her and introduce yourself. No explosions this time.�h
(Kira)

{You got it, boss lady.}

�gKira?�h (Ellie)

�gAll three of you made very good points. So�c she�fs my responsibility. Once she�fs cuffed she won�ft
bother you that much, right?�h (Kira)

Ellie still refuses to turn off her mind-reading, but at least with the ear cuff she won�ft have to listen to... that.

�g... Thanks, Kira.�h (Ellie)

�gMistress! Does that mean that this one is-�h (Ariel)

�g-is going to stay exactly where she is and keep quiet!�h (Kira)

�gHaah! As the Mistress, haah, commands! Huuhn!�h (Ariel)

Nope! I can�ft deal with this after all! I storm off towards the kitchen!

�gHey Kelly! Pour one for me too!�h (Kira)

Today�fs chapter brought to you by the letter M.

Chapter 104 - Oddly enough some parents are prouder than their kids
on graduation day - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

Me and Kira sit down in the dining room.

�gGood morning Mistress.�h (Ariel)

Ariel was already waiting for us.

She�fs wearing some sort of maid outfit.

It looks a bit like the classy long maid dress the Baron�fs maids wore.

It�fs dark-blue and has a frilly white apron in front.

Except the back is completely exposed and there are no sleeves.

I'm guessing it's because of the wings on her back and feathers along her outer arms.

Her leather armor had a similar design.

�gGood morning, Ariel.�h (Kira)

�gIs it time for punishment?�h (Ariel)

�gWhy is that the first- *Ahem* No, it�fs breakfast time actually, can you go get some for both of us?�h (Kira)

�gAt once, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

Kira, good job!

She�fs been getting better at not minding that peculiar behavior.

It�fs been only three days, but we've already got a good handle on how to cope with Ariel�fs weirdness.

Well, Kelly is a bit weird too, in my opinion.

But Kelly is easy to deal with, we just have to stock up on booze and any problems solve themselves.

Right now Ariel�fs living in that guest house we had for the dwarves.

It�fs more like a bungalow, though.

Well, it was thrown together in a rush, but it seems comfy enough inside.

For some reason Ariel imagined we would make her sleep outside in the dirt.

No, to be more precise, she hoped that would be the case.

For being a bird lady, she sure obsesses a lot over dirt.
Maybe she misses it because she�fs in the sky a lot?

�gThis one has returned bearing breakfast for Mistress and her lover.�h (Ariel)

Ariel returns with a plate of eggs on toast and another filled with bacon!

Come here you wonderful strips of porcine goodness!

*Munch munch munch*

�gUhm. Ariel. What�fs up with these eggs?�h (Kira)

�gThis one made them herself, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

That�fs so good!

It�fs not every day we get to eat pork bacon!

�gWhat do you made them? Don�ft tell me- Urk! You didn�ft�c lay these, did you?�h (Kira)

�gOh no, Mistress! This one merely fried them!�h (Ariel)

*Munch munch*

Wild boar bacon is good, but it can�ft compare to proper pork!

�gOh thank goodness�c But why are they blue?�h (Kira)

Hmm?

Oh, these eggs have blue yolk!

I didn�ft notice because mister bacon had entered the room!

�gThese are fresh Hippogryph eggs this one bought yesterday. They are a high quality ingredient that aids in the
circulation of mana.�h (Ariel)

�gHippogryph eggs!? Those are ten times more expensive than regular ones! Don�ft waste money on something
that doesn�ft matter!�h (Kira)

�gThis one begs forgiveness, Mistress! This one did not consider Mistress�fs wishes!�h (Ariel)

She�fs back to that groveling position again.

�gI�fll be adding this blunder to your punishment later! Make sure you reflect properly, got it?!�h (Kira)

�gYes! This one shall engrave Mistress-�h (Ariel)

�gJust shut up and go wake up the girls! And remember to keep your rotten bird-brain in check!�h (Kira)

This is one of the tricks Kira learned about Ariel�fs condition.

If you reprimand her harshly, she will be more docile for a while.
�gHnn! Yes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

And there she goes up the steps.

�gHonestly, that girl. Sometimes I think she does these things on purpose.�h (Kira)

She reaches over and starts eating them anyway.

Kira seems to actually like these Hippogryph eggs.

But like she said, they�fre way too expensive.

I�fm not sure how our finances are doing, but it�fs been awhile since we did any paying work.

Actually, that�fs a fair point.

�gKira, let�fs do a commission later when we visit the guild.�h (Ellie)

�gOh! Right! Today�fs the day! I almost forgot since I let that stupid bird get to me!�h (Kira)

*Nom nom nom*

She gets some strange spurt of motivation and starts eating her eggs on toast really quickly.

Well, I�fm already finished with the bacon, so let�fs fill up on watching Kira eating her food!

�gGood morning Mom and Mom!�h (Lara)

Lara and Sophie arrive from upstairs.

We exchange greetings and they start eating breakfast.

Ariel quietly stands in the corner and waits to be called over.

This is one of the rules Kira gave her.

Absolutely, under no circumstances, should she ever misbehave in front of the kids.

Unfortunately it seems like it�fs impossible for her to keep that up all of the time.

Kira tried ordering her to do that, but Ariel started fidgeting and being restless after about four hours.

Two hours after that, she started heavily panting.

After a total of eight hours, she fell to the ground and made strange noises while grasping at Kira�fs feet.

Kira had to stomp on her hand and kick her in the face before she settled down.

But somehow it felt like Kira was the one that took the most damage in that encounter.

So the current arrangement is the tentative solution.

Ariel�fs like a PLR-45 Sidearm.

If you don�ft vent the plasma capacitors regularly, it�fs likely to melt from the heat build-up.

Almost exactly like that, actually.

Honestly, I think she acts strange only when Kira is around.

She desperately wants to be punished, you see.

But not to the degree where she will do bad things on purpose.

Gah!

I accidentally recalled what was coursing through her head that time!

That was scary!

People regularly have rude thoughts in their heads, I�fm used to those.

But this was the first time I�fve heard someone with this overactive an imagination!

Her obsession with Kira is impossible to put into words!

It might even be on the same level as mine!

I�fm not jealous though.

It�fs a different sort of obsession.

I want to be the target of Kira�fs love and affection.

Ariel wants to be the target of Kira�fs contempt and disgust.

And heels, for some reason.

Therefore, there is nothing to be jealous about!

There is no overlap, you see.

Although I feel sorry for Ariel.

Kira is too kind to truly be disgusted with someone.

At most she feels uncomfortable.

Maybe I can help out somehow?

Hmmm�c

***

�gGood day, Ellie! And Mrs Quasse. So good to see you again!�h (Clara)

�gGood day, Clara.�h (Ellie)

�gGood day Clara! Are our cards ready yet?�h (Kira)

�gThey are! Grandmaster Kilroy said he would like to give them to you personally! Right this way, please!�h
(Clara)

Clara leads us up the stairs to the Grandmaster�fs office.

Ariel was there too since her card had to be updated as well.

Although her presence was somehow completely ignored by Clara.

But then again, Ariel seems to ignore everything that isn�ft directly related to Kira.

So�c they have a mutual understanding to ignore each other.

This is also a form of getting along with others, yes?

We reach the slightly nostalgic Grandmaster�fs office.

*Knock knock*

Clara knocks twice on the door then pokes her head inside.

�gGrandmaster, I�fm here with Ellie (and some extras) to receive her Rank A promotion!�h (Clara)

�gVery good. Come inside everyone.�h (Grandmaster)

We all file inside the room.

�gGood to see you everyone. I�fm sorry it may not be as grand an event as you were hoping, but at least it will be
over with quickly.�h (Grandmaster)

The Grandmaster stands up from behind his desk and heads towards Clara.

Oh that�fs right, Clara is also here for some reason.

Ah, she�fs carrying the shiny new Adventurer's Cards for us!

The Grandmaster gratefully accepts the small ornamental box from her.

Hmm?

Oh, I see, she�fs also looking forward to the actual ceremony.

I don�ft believe it�fs as huge an event as she thinks it is.

�gFor exemplary service in the face of adversity, the Adventurer�fs Guild officially recognizes Kiressara mil
Quasse and Ellie mil Quasse as Rank A adventurers. Congratulations.�h (Grandmaster)

*Clap clap clap*

Clara and Ariel give us a small round of applause.

Again, is this really that big a deal?

No, bad Ellie!

Kira looks so happy she might break out into tears!

This is a big deal for Kira, therefore it should be a big deal for me!

�gHere are your cards. May you continue to make the guild proud.�h (Grandmaster)

He opens the fancy box and presents it to us.

Two shiny new Adventurer�fs cards are inside.

They�fre the same base white with the same creepy identity verification function.

However, the golden edge that looks like a tiny frame makes it stand out.

Kira takes them out with a trembling hand.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Kiressara mil Quasse
Titles: Red Sage, Magic Pioneer, Dragonbane
Team: Black Flame
Position: Support
Rank: A
Perk: Researcher
Status: Active
--------------------------------------------------------------

She holds her new card with one hand and covers her lower face with the other.

Yep, she�fs moved to tears.

It was very bad of me to belittle this important event for her.

This was one of her dreams, but I got cocky and forgot myself!

I�fll make sure to properly apologize later.

The Perk she chose in advance was Researcher.

It lets Kira go to the Magic Academy or the Military Academy and borrow their instructors or facilities at any time.

Free of charge, of course.

It�fs an important thing for our future jobs.

I take a look at my own card.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Ellie mil Quasse
Titles: Silent Shadow, Bonesetter, Dragonbane
Team: Black Flame
Position: Scout
Rank: A
Perk: Enforcer
Status: Active
--------------------------------------------------------------

Mine was a tougher choice.

Initially I was going to pick Seeker of Knowledge.

That would give me unlimited access to the guild�fs information network.

Including normally confidential stuff, like personal details about adventurers.

I thought it would be useful for Kira�fs future job.

But she kindly said I should think about myself.

It was okay to be selfish since it�fs my reward for making it this far.

In the end I picked Enforcer.

I can now act on behalf of the local law enforcement!

Well, this is mostly so I won�ft get in trouble for breaking rude people.

Less time spent explaining myself means more time spent with Kira!

�gThank you so much! You have no idea how much this means to me!�h (Kira)

As for Kira, it seems she�fs recovered a bit.

She was also really happy when we got the message our Rank A promotions were a sure thing.

But actually receiving it is still on a different level, huh?

�gYou are very welcome Mrs Quasse.�h (Grandmaster)

�gCongratulations, Mistr-.�h (Ariel)

�gSpeak only when spoken to, birdface.�h (Kira)

�gHnn! Haaah!�h (Ariel)

Kira interrupted Ariel without even looking backwards or breaking her wide smile.

She�fs completely gotten used to dealing with her by now.

Me?

I�fm too busy focusing on Kira to care about Ariel.

�gCongratulations, Ellie!�h (Clara)

Ah right!

�gHere, Clara. You wanted to make a copy, right?�h (Ellie)

I hand her the new card so she can make a tracing of it right away.

�gIs�c is that really okay!?�h (Clara)

It�fs something minor she wanted.

It takes even less effort than an autograph on my part.

�gGo right ahead. But hurry, please.�h (Ellie)

�gYes! At once! Move it, extra!�h (Clara)

She shoves Ariel out of the way and runs out of the room.

�gWhat a rude little worm. She doesn�ft seem to realize her position.�h (Ariel)

That�fs odd.

I thought Ariel would be happy at the rough treatment.

Instead she has a face like she�fs smelling something bad while openly belittling Clara.

Seems like if it�fs not me or Kira it doesn�ft count as �epunishment.�f

�gAriel. Do not be rude towards Clara. She has helped us a lot in the past.�h (Ellie)

�gAH! Forgive-�h (Ariel)

�gKeep it down back there, you oversized turkey! You�fre ruining my concentration!�h (Kira)

All Kira�fs concentrating on is the feeling of the card in her hands, though.

�gNNnnnnng!�h (Ariel)

As for Ariel, she�fll probably listen to what I said.

She�fs been treating me more or less like I�fm Kira ever since she saw we have the same face.

Well, we�fre basically the same person, so it�fs not wrong.

After realizing this, I suggested we split the duty of managing her condition.

Kira was a bit apprehensive at the idea, but she accepted it.

She will handle the verbal punishment and I will handle the physical.

I know quite a lot about choke holds and torture techniques, you see.

Only using mild ones though, going overboard is no good.

In the end, Ariel is happy because she gets her punishment while me and Kira get to relieve some stress.

Also, Ariel gets to practice her healing magic, so there�fs no loss.

Well, watching her laugh gleefully during her punishment is a bit creepy.

But it�fs something I�fm willing to endure.

It�fs my duty to share in Kira�fs burdens.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gAh, that�fs right. Miss Noko, I have your card as well.�h (Grandmaster)

�gThank you.�h (Ariel)

The Grandmaster hands Ariel her card back too.

Well, hers is the same except for the team name on it.

With this she�fs officially a part of [Black Flame].

Our business done, we head back down to the first floor.

Clara comes out of the back room with my card.

Seems she�fs already done copying it.

�gThank you, Ellie! *Sniffle* You have no idea what *Sniffle* this means to me!�h (Clara)

�gIt was nothing.�h (Ellie)

I take it back from her quivering fingers and put it away.

Hmm, I think I get it now.

Rank A really didn�ft matter to me.

But it�fs somehow important to those around me.

Seeing how happy it made Clara and Kira made me a little happy as well.

I�fm sure the kids will also be overjoyed.

Therefore, I�fve decided to be proud of being Rank A!

�gNow then! Let�fs go see if there�fs any good Monster Hole requests we can clean up and rake it in!�h (Kira)

Ohhh!

Kira�fs in �esuper motivated to earn money�f mode!

I�fm rather looking forward to it myself!

It�fs been so long since we went out on something simple like a subjugation request.

No dragons, no conspiracies, no titans and no camping out in the woods where we can�ft make love!

Just us, some monsters, and a lot of blood!

End of Act Seven - The Price of Progress

Well how about that? A quiet act where there was no life-threatening or world-shattering event.
Or WAS THERE?!?!?! Hint: No, there wasn't.
Side Story - Actions speak louder than words - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> ??? PoV <

�gHey there big guy, back again?�h (Bartender)

I nod to the bartender�fs greeting. I only visited briefly about three days ago, yet she still remembers me. I�fm a
bit happy, but it�fs probably better if she forgot me. That�fs probably impossible though.

�gLet me guess, pour out the ale and keep it coming?�h (Bartender)

I nod again. I�fm glad she�fs understanding. It�fs awkward not to speak, but it�fs even more awkward when I
do speak. I sit down and lean my heavy greatsword against the bar. Well, it�fs probably a greatsword to most
people, for me it�fs closer to a longsword.

�gHere ya go, just wave me down when you need a refill!�h (Bartender)

She hands me the mug and I gratefully accept it with another nod. It�fs surprising how much you can get done in
this city with just head movements. They must be used to the silent types around here. I�fm really lucky I came to
this place. No, it would be more accurate to say I'm lucky I found this place when I came here.

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Runetap, huh? I�fm surprised. This was not what I was expected in the slightest. It�fs a good thing though. Good
people, although most of them aren�ft playing with a full deck of cards. I guess I fit right in then, huh? I raise
another silent toast to the idiots who built this place!

*GLUG GLUG GLUG*

Ah, it�fs already gone! I wave down the bartender and she gladly refills it without saying anything. At least she�fs
not judgmental that I�fm chain drinking in the afternoon.

***

�gWelcome back, big guy. Had another good hunt?�h (Bartender)

I nod to the bartender girl as I enter her bar again. She�fs talking about my adventurer work. I don�ft really need
to be doing it though. Like, I really don�ft. If I wanted money I just need to go hunt down some of the treasure the
old me left lying around all over this place. I hunt down the monsters around here as more of a community service
thing, even though nobody really asked me to do it. Also, it keeps me busy.

�gYou�fve been coming here for a full week now, you must really like it here!�h (Bartender)

I nod to her again. She�fs a good person, her cheerful disposition always lifts my spirits. Way more than the actual
spirits. She has a cute freckled face and shoulder-length pale blond hair she keeps tied up in a bun. I wonder why
she�fs not married yet?

�gYou�fre staring again, you know?�h (Bartender)

Ah! Whoops. I got lost in thought. I lower my head and wave my hand in apology.

�gThat�fs okay. At least you don't make rude comments!�h (Bartender)

Right, that�fs why. Probably didn�ft meet anyone decent in this city. This place just doesn�ft really attract
decent sorts. I nod my head again in response.

�gYou know, I heard about you from the City Guard.�h (Bartender)

Oh there we go. I guess I�fll have to find a new place to-

�gNo need to be so flustered. They just said you had a loud voice. Is that why you keep your words to yourself?�h
(Bartender)

I nod again after a brief pause. Right, the City Guard. Weird bunch, but they seem to cope with this location pretty
well. I�fm surprised they were completely prepared for someone like me, but I�fm grateful. Without their help,
I�fd probably still be rampaging through the countryside.

The bartender girl leans forward puts her elbows on the bar opposite me. She looks up at me with a cheerful
expression as always.

�gYou know, not all adventurers are considerate like you are. Look, the bar�fs pretty empty right now, so how
about stop worrying about your voice and give me your name? I�fm quite curious.�h (Bartender)

I glance around, there really aren�ft any people around. Just the two guys in the corner, minding their own
business.

�gCome on, don�ft be such a stranger! Tell you what, if you give me your name, I�fll give you mine!�h
(Bartender)

I drop my shoulders slightly. I can�ft deny such an honest request. Truth is, I do want to tell her my name. I want to
tell her who I am, where I come from, what I�fve been through. What actually comes out of my mouth is-

TREMBLE IN FEAR, MORTAL FOOL! FOR YOU STAND BEFORE THE GREAT AND
MIGHTY ZUBLOS!

�gPfft! Hahaha! What was that!? AH hahahaha! Don�ft tell me you seriously, haha, talk like that?! Hahahhahaha!
�h (Bartender)

Okay. She's not angry at me. That's a start.

> Lara A PoV <

I�fm laughing so much I�fm in tears! He caught me completely by surprise! I had no idea this is how he really
talks! I mean he sure fits the �eAncient Evil�f part on the outside, but that over-the-top self-introduction is too
much!

�gHahah! Hah. Fuuuu. Sorry, that was rude of me! Haaah, I needed a good laugh. Thanks for that! Zublos huh?
Good to finally meet you! I�fm Lara! Lara Alamein!�h (Lara A)

Oh man that cheered me up! For a moment I forgot all about my problems!

�gYou know, I really want to thank you. Your patronage helps me out a lot.�h (Lara A)

He orders a lot, pays his tab regularly and doesn�ft stir up any trouble that results in property damage. Pretty much
the ideal customer! Problem is he�fs more or less the only such customer.
Zublos nods in response. Looks like my gratitude was accepted. However, this won�ft do!

�gOh come now, don�ft be like that! It�fs a bar, it�fs supposed to be a little loud!�h (Lara A)

DO NOT PRESUME TO ORDER ZUBLOS AROUND, PETULANT WORM!

�g *Snigger* Sorry! I just can�ft get enough of those ridiculous lines!�h (Lara A)

They�fre so over the top, it�fs brilliant! Most Ancient Evil things that pop out around here just get sealed,
banished or annihilated! I�fm glad this one actually tried to reform!

Zublos seemed to brighten up at my incessant giggling! That�fs odd to say the least! Normally he should be ticked
off for me making fun of his little act! I wonder why he keeps talking like that, though?

�gSay, could it be that�c you hate speaking normally?�h (Lara A)

THE GREAT AND MIGHTY ZUBLOS WILL SPEAK AS HE PLEASES!

He says that, but he�fs hanging his head down in shame. Oh! It reminds me of that one drunk who had a purple
spot on his neck and kept swearing incessantly when I tried to wake him up! Maybe it's that sort of thing?

�gSo it�fs like a curse?�h (Lara A)

Zublos looks back at me. He scratches his head while looking around, then shrugs his shoulders and nods. �eClose
enough.�f

�gThat�fs horrible! Why didn�ft you go visit the Church of Khamis to get it lifted?�h (Lara A)

He puts his arms on the counter and rolls up his sleeves to show me some ornate bracers. Hmm? Aren�ft those
[Shackles of Eternal Damnation]? I almost didn�ft recognize it without the chains! If I remember right, the red
ones seal magic completely. So that�fs why he carries that huge sword around even though he wears a fancy
crimson robe!

�gI don�ft really understand, but I won�ft pry. I�fm sure you have your reasons!�h (Lara A)

It�fs not a good idea to thoughtlessly dig into another�fs past. Especially in this city. It goes triple for someone
like Zublos. He nods gratefully in response. And resumes drinking his ale.

Come to think of it, he�fs the only regular I have these days so I might as well tell him.

�gActually, I�fm going to close this miserly bar down next month.�h (Lara A)

He blinks at me a few times, looks around the mostly empty place and points at himself questioningly.

�gIt�fs not your fault. This is a city full of better places than mine, there�fs no way I can compete with them. I
only kept the place going to honor my father�fs memory, but sentiment won�ft fill my belly.�h (Lara A)

It�fs a bit backwards to have the customer listen to the bartender�fs worries. I guess with this I�fm officially
disqualified as a bar owner, huh? Ah, now Zublos is hanging his head in disappointment. I should have expected this
much.

�gOh come on, don�ft be like that. I�fm sure you�fll find somewhere else to pretend you can get drunk.�h
(Lara A)

ZUBLOS HAS NO NEED OF DISAPPOINTING BEVERAGES! ZUBLOS DEMANDS THE

OBEDIENCE OF THOSE AROUND HIM!

�gPfft!�h (Lara A)

Damn he got me! And just like that the solemn moment we had going disappeared through the window! Hmm? Why
is he pointing at me?

�gAh, you�fre only here because of me?�h (Lara A)

He crosses his arms and nods! I blush a bit since I�fm flattered he would say something like that. It does make
sense if you think about it. He definitely didn�ft stick around for the riveting conversation or the delicious alcohol.
Since neither of those things can be found here.

PITIFUL MORTAL! REJOICE FOR I HAVE DECIDED TO GRANT YOU THE GLORIOUS
HONOR OF SERVING UNDER ZUBLOS!

�c Huh?

***

*KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK*

Hmm? Someone�fs at the door? It�fs already past closing time so I should go send them away. I stop sweeping up
the place and shout towards the back room.

�gDon�ft worry boss, I got it!�h (Lara A)

YOU SERVE ME WELL, SLAVE!

Came the immediate reply. I�fm glad he�fs no longer shy about that way of speaking, although the people he
hired found it a bit awkward at being called SLAVE all the time. It only lasts until they realize he actually means to
say �evalued employee.�f

I open the door slightly and peek my face through the crack.

�gI�fm sorry, but the Vestiges of-�h (Lara A)

�gLara! I�fm sorry for disturbing you so late, but I need a big favor! Is your boss here?!�h (Clara)

�gOh! Hey Clara, come in! He�fs around back!�h (Lara A)

�gThanks. Actually you should come too, I might need your help.�h (Clara)

�gSure!�h (Lara A)

I close and lock the door, then guide her to the back. I�fm supposed to be just a waitress, but since I�fm the one
who understands the boss the most I end up being an interpreter a lot of the time. Like earlier this afternoon with that
delightful group of four! Those two little girls were particularly adorable!

At first I was apprehensive about Zublos�fs cake shop idea - using alchemical reagents in regular cooking sounded
dangerous! But turns out that he�fs really good at it! The amazing taste and novelty of his creations attracted so
many customers that we became almost an overnight success! It�fs hard to believe this place was that same seedy
bar from a few weeks ago!

We reach the office in the back and I poke my head inside. Seems the boss is doing some paperwork, but he pauses
to glance up at me.

�gIt was Clara, she needs a favor! It seems urgent!�h (Lara A)

THE RUTHLESS AND TERRIBLE ZUBLOS WILL HEAR OUT THIS PATHETIC WRETCH
AND HER FEEBLE REQUEST

Heh, that was a good one. Clara basically storms into his office after hearing that colorful �eshow her in.�f

�gZublos! I need your help! Me and several of my friends need to leave for the Capital immediately, but there�fs
no available adventurers to hire as escorts on such short notice! Please, I�fll make sure you�fre well compensated,
so be our escort!�h (Clara)

Wow, she really does seem desperate. It may be a two-week round trip, but it shouldn�ft be a problem. We do owe
Clara a lot for her help. Zublos may have had the money to buy and start his own business, but the web of laws and
regulations was a nightmare! Clara patiently guided us through the process so it went much much smoother than it
would have otherwise. I guess her position as a guild receptionist in the �eCity of Paperwork�f isn�ft just for
show!

IN LIGHT OF YOUR MEAGER ASSISTANCE TO THE CAUSE OF ZUBLOS, I SHALL

PERSONALLY SEE TO THIS MEANINGLESS TASK!

�gThank you! Thank you so much! Although, are you sure the shop will be okay?�h (Clara)

Zublos looks at me and tilts his head. I guess I should be the one explain properly, huh?

�gIt�fs fine, Clara! The waitresses and assistant chefs can handle the day-to-day. They�fll be fine if we leave for
a few weeks! The boss treats his workers really well, so each of us is doing our best every day!�h (Lara A)

It goes double for me though. It may not be exactly what my father wanted, but I�fm still honoring his wish. �eA
place where people can forget about their troubles for a day�f is what he wanted to leave behind. I�fd say Zublos
is doing a much better job at it than I was, though�c

�gAlso, the boss wanted to visit the capital anyway to take care of a few things, so it�fs actually a good
opportunity!�h (Lara A)

�gI see, I see! That makes me feel a lot better for springing this on you... How much time do you need to get ready?
�h (Clara)

I glance back at the boss. He�fs already equipping himself with the luxurious robe and heavy greatsword he keeps
in the corner. I turn around to face Clara and let her know.

�gSeems he�fs all set to go immediately!�h (Lara A)

The boss taps me gently on the shoulder. I look up at him and he tilts his head towards the door.

�gWait, I�fm coming too?�h (Lara A)

He nods.

***

Well, it was a bit sudden, but it makes sense. Those stuck up people of the capital have no way they�fll understand
what Zublos is really trying to say. In the end we�fre escorting a stagecoach with about 5 or so girls crammed
inside. I'm one of them, though.

�gAlright everyone! We�fll stop here for few hours!�h (Coachman)

The coachman shouts at us from outside the stagecoach. Clara pokes her head through the window and shouts back
at him

�gYou�fre sure we can�ft keep going?! It�fs still daylight!�h (Clara)

�gHorses need rest, young lady. The fact we actually left in the evening has thrown their sleep cycle out of whack.
Don�ft worry, we�fre still ahead of schedule as promised.�h (Coachman)

�g... Sorry. Thanks for your hard work.�h (Clara)

I glare a bit at Clara as she takes her seat again. I don�ft care how much of a fan you are, but pushing people
around so you can be several hours ahead of time is beyond selfish! That girl�fs devotion to her idol is downright
creepy! I should have asked about the reason for this �eemergency�f a lot sooner!

Well, we�fre already 2 days into the trip so it�fs pointless to turn back now. At least the road is fairly new and
flat so the ride is rather comfortable.

The carriage stops by the side of the road and we file out, stretching our limbs. I go to where Zublos is. Since he
keeps pace with the horses on foot, he must be tired.

�gGood job today as well, boss. You have a good nap, okay?�h (Lara A)

He nods and quietly climbs inside the now empty carriage. His stamina may be formidable, but it�fs not
bottomless. Even if he claims he can keep going for a week without rest, I won�ft let him! With his personality
he�fd collapse from overwork in no time!

I huddle around with the rest of the passengers as they start a campfire and prepare lunch. Eventually the small talk
turns to their idol, an adventurer named Ellie. They all seem to really enjoy talking about her, but I just keep out of
it.

�gI wonder how she maintains that healthy hair of hers? It�fs always shiny and glossy whenever I see it!�h
(Fangirl 1)

�gDon�ft you know? She regularly buys shampoo from that [Green Sage]!�h (Fangirl 2)

�gReally? Maybe I should give it a try, too.�h (Fangirl 1)

�gYou�fll have a good opportunity, he�fs going to arrive the day after we do along with the rest of the club.�h
(Clara)

�gThat�fs great! I wonder if he some of her hair dye as well�c�h (Fangirl 1)

�gEllie�fs hair is naturally blue though. There�fs no way hair dye is that luscious in color!�h (Fangirl 3)
Hmm? Blue hair? Wasn�ft that the-

*GRRRRR*

I hear a low growl. Judging from the faces of the other girls, it�fs not just me! I turn towards the treeline and see a
whole pack of gigantic wolves emerge! There must be dozens! One leaps right at me with an open jaw!

�gNOO! HEEE-�h (Lara A)

*SMASH*

*YELP!*

�g-EELP... me?�h (Lara A)

I closed my eyes and screamed in a panic! But a weird noise was heard! I open my eyes and instead of a wolf, I find
a massive wall of red.

YOU PUNY MONGRELS DARE TO CHALLENGE ZUBLOS?! KNOW THAT YOUR

ANNIHILATION IS ASSURED!

...

DIE, WEAKLINGS!

...

When I come back to my senses, the wolves are already dead or fleeing. Looking around, the other girls already
retreated to the carriage. The door was ripped clean off its hinges! What? Wasn't he sleeping?! When did he get all
the way over here?

IS MY MINION SO PATHETIC AS TO BE BESTED BY THAT WORTHLESS TRASH?

Zublos is now standing next to me, looking down at my barely standing self.

�gI�fm�c fine�c you! You aren�ft! You�fre bleeding!�h (Lara A)

How horrible! He has a huge gash on his forearm! His robe is torn and getting damp around the wound! He just
glances at it and shrugs his shoulders!

SUCH A MEAGER SCRATCH COULD BARELY BE CONSIDERED A WOUND!

�gBut- That is- That was- *Sniffle* I WAS SO SCAARED! WAAAAA!�h (Lara A)

I hug him across his stomach and bury my crying face in his robe! It was a wolf! It was huge! IT HAD TEETH
AND WANTED TO EAT MEEEE! THIS IS WHY I NEVER WANTED TO LEAVE THE CITYYY!

*Pomf*

Hm? What�fs with this huge thing on my head? Somehow�c I feel... reassured. Safe. Like I�fm inside the
world�fs castle wall. I open my damp eyes and look up. I see, he's slightly tussling my hair with his enormous
hand.
I FIND YOUR LACK OF FAITH DISTURBING, MINION! THE GREAT AND POWERFUL
ZUBLOS DOES NOT SUFFER ANY MISGUIDED FOOLS WHO COVET HIS BELONGINGS!

�gHeh! *Sniffle* Thank you.�h (Lara A)

He says some good things. Hmm? What did he call me since a while ago?

...

I don�ft quite understand why, and I know it�fs crazy but�c somehow being promoted from SLAVE to
MINION made me feel really happy!

This side story was partially inspired by Krieg.

Chapter 105 - Those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
Act Eight - The Grand Tournament

> Ellie PoV <

�gI think that went rather well, all things considered!�h (Kira)

Kira said so pleasantly while staring at the large number of corpses in front of us.

�gThat�fs one way of putting it, Red. I almost felt bad for these Spider-Bears.�h (Kelly)

They�fre called Spider-Bears because they�fre brown bears with eight long legs.

None of them swung on webs though, which was disappointing.

I suppose it would be impossible since they�fre about two times larger than your average bear.

�gYou say that, but you really ran wild back there.�h (Ellie)

She was particularly vicious today, she has no right to say that sort of thing.

I think she was just over-excited to have Scrappy back in working order.

�gThis one agrees with the Mistress. Milady Darkhand did not hold back at all.�h (Ariel)

�gOnly when spoken to, pigeon-fart!�h (Kira)

�gHnnnng!�h (Ariel)

�gI really wish she�fd stop calling me that, though. It�fs too long!�h (Kelly)

�gAriel, make sure you call her Kelly in the future. This is an order.�h (Kira)

�gHahn! Yes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gThere, done.�h (Kira)

�gThat was easy.�h (Kelly)

�gYeah�c if only that worked for me�c�h (Kira)

Ariel likes to call me and Kira as �eMistress.�f

I don�ft particularly mind since she doesn�ft mean anything bad.

Even so, Kira seems to dislike it.

She tried to order Ariel to call her something else.

Ariel tried many things, but somehow none were pleasing to Kira.
She tried Milady, My Liege, Princess, Queen, Empress, Dame and a few others.

I think they�fre all fitting for Kira in their own way.

Especially Overlord, it has an excellent sort of appeal to it.

Unfortunately they were all rejected.

And Ariel seriously does not want to call Kira by her name.

Says such a thing is something she is unworthy of.

Well, she can�ft refuse it if we order it, but something tells me we should avoid that.

It might create a feedback loop and make her explode.

Just like a poorly maintained PLR-45 Sidearm.

�gBy the way, are Ariel and Nano getting along okay?�h (Kira)

{No problems. It seems she�fs thinking that I�fm her superior as a senior servant or something along those lines.}

�gIs this one�fs assumption not correct, Master Nano?�h (Ariel)

{No, no, you�fre technically right. I�fm just here to support Ellie and Kira after all.}

�gSo in the end she�fs at the very bottom in this little flying perch we have going, huh?�h (Kelly)

�gThat is more or less what she wants, though�c�h (Kira)

{Ah, the girls want to come out and greet you all.}

�gNo! Keep them inside! I�fm going to go keep them company, you three sort these out, we�fre almost back the
capital!�h (Kira)

�gOkay Kira!�h (Ellie)

�gYes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gSure, let me just get out of Scrappy.�h (Kelly)

Kira heads inside the tower while the three of us start dismantling the pile of corpses.

Truthfully, Kira gets squeamish when it comes to this type of thing.

Beheading that Elder Dragon made her lose her appetite for a few days.

I�fm used to carving flesh and blood gushing out so it�fs no big deal for me.

Kelly and Ariel, on the other hand, are experienced at dismantling monsters for parts.

We brought 40 of the Spider-Bear carcasses onto our flying front lawn.

That�fs as many as four tens!

And that�fs terrible!

If Sophie or Lara were to see them, that is.

There were about 90 corpses in total, but we only brought along those in decent condition.

Since their bits and pieces are expensive materials when properly taken apart.

The fur in particular is really soft!

I wonder if Nano can make some stuffed toys for the girls with it?

The meat, I�fm not so sure about - it looks stringy and tough to chew.

The really precious materials are in the head.

Eyes, teeth and brains are in high demand as alchemical ingredients.

Monster materials like this are the real reward for subjugating a Monster Hole!

Ah, this time it was an actual hole in the ground, which meant Ariel couldn�ft fly around.

But she did show off the offensive power of her enchanted voice.

Apparently, it's a special trait common along her people.

It seems she can even choose her targets when using that sort of magic.

Even though the sound is traveling in all directions.

The result was that we were unharmed while several Spider-Bears had their heads exploded after several seconds!

It seems that her magic voice echoed inside the cave and was amplified!

As expected, her Rank A wasn�ft just for show!

Kira had to scold her thoroughly for that display, however.

You can�ft collect the valuable things if the heads are turned to paste, you see.

Just like how you can�ft salvage electronics from security bots melted by a PLR-45 Sidearm.

Huh.

�gNano, do we have any PLR-45 Sidearms lying around?�h (Ellie)

I started feeling a bit nostalgic since that was the first gun I ever got.

{You know, I was thinking the same thing earlier. Unfortunately no, we don�ft.}

Shame, I think it would really suit someone like Ariel.

{We do have fifty PLR-76 Rifles, though! I should be able to jury-rig one together!}

�gGood! Let�fs do that!�h (Ellie)

{You got it! I�fll let you know how it turns out!}

Rifles are no good, they�fre too big, especially the PLR-70 series.

Those were made for species with superior muscle mass that could withstand the recoil.

Or those who have undergone strength-enhancing gene therapy.

Mine is the agility-enhancing type, so I can�ft use them either.

Even though Nano boosts my strength, it's not quite enough.

�gEllie, what sort of drink is this Pee Ale Arr? Is it tasty?�h (Kelly)

�gIt�fs a weapon, not a drink.�h (Ellie)

�gBah, how come you didn�ft bring any alcohol from that fancy world of yours!?�h (Kelly)

Technically it�fs parallel universe, but it�fs a weird concept for the people here, so we just call it a 'world.'

{We did, though the bottles were all smashed up in the cra-, I mean, landing.}

�gShame.�h (Kelly)

***

�gGood day Ellie!�h (Clara)

�gGood day Clara. I�fm here to report our successful subjugation of the Spider-Bear Monster Hole.�h (Ellie)

�gAlready!? This is the fourth Rank A commission this week!�h (Clara)

�gI�fm part of an excellent team.�h (Ellie)

Also, our flying home is really convenient.

It lets us travel in comfort to and from our destination!

It�fs much faster than walking and we can carry almost all the spoils back on it!

But most important of all - our daughters are both safe and nearby!

This is a way better use of the Flight Badge than what we originally planned!

�gAnd are those things behind you the proof of subjugation?�h (Clara)

She points to the trolley behind me.

It�fs loaded with various jars.

�gThat�fs right. Where should I drop them off?�h (Ellie)

�gJust leave them there, I�fll call someone to take care of it. One moment, please.�h (Clara)

She goes off to the back room somewhere.

Hmm, while I�fm here I might as well check on the request board.

It�fs near the counter anyway, so I�fm within earshot if she needs me.

Let�fs see�c

That guy�fs still looking for a swordsmanship tutor for his son.

Northern mountain range pathfinding expedition, that�fs a bit odd.

Oh, it�fs posted on behalf of Goldrim, must be related to the dwarven country.

Well, we more or less stopped interacting with those two.

Since they were accepted into the Royal Palace as guests of honor, we don�ft have much to do with them anymore.

There�fs no other monster hole subjugation requests, huh?

Well, it�fs not like those things pop up all the time around the capital.

Would be different in Runetap, though.

�eExplore the mysterious underwater cave at the bottom of the Mirelian Ocean�f seems interesting.

�gNano, we don�ft have any underwater exploration gear, right?�h (Ellie)

{That�fs a fair point, it might be useful in the future. I�fll check with the others if there�fs some magic tool
already available for that sort of thing.}

�gYeah! Good idea!�h (Ellie)

Kira, Ariel and Kelly have the combined magical knowledge of three excellent adventurers!

Sorry, two adventurers and one mercenary.

Kelly still refuses to register with the guild, but it�fs not that big a deal anyway.

According to Ariel, there are some City States to the east that outright hate the guild.

Having someone like Kelly along would be useful in case we end up going there.

Oh, right, the underwater exploration request!

It�fs Rank B so the reward isn�ft terrible, but the request seems rather sketchy.

As in, rather than an actual map or directions, there�fs a rough sketch of the area that needs to be investigated.

A sketch of the ocean doesn�ft really provide a lot of information...

Ah, Clara�fs back with another clerk.

�gEllie, this is Powell. He will be taking care of the verification.�h (Clara)

�gGood day, Mrs Quasse.�h (Powell)

�gGood day.�h (Ellie)

�gAre these the Spider-Bear components?�h (Powell)

Powell looks to be a young man around 20 years old.

I don�ft think we�fve met before.

�gThat�fs right. Forty sets in total. Please confirm them.�h (Ellie)

�gForty you say! Dismantling this many must have been a grizzly scene!�h (Powell)

�gUgh�c�h (Clara)

Oh, I see how it is.

�gThat�fs right. My partner actually finds that sort of work really un bearable.�h (Ellie)

�gMy apologies, I didn�ft mean to pry. It must be something quite em bearrasing for an adventurer to admit.�h
(Powell)

�gGrrrr�c�h (Clara)

�gIt�fs okay. I don�ft mind working with my bear hands, so I take care of it in her stead.�h (Ellie)

�gThat must be quite fortunate for her. Now, could you bear with me while I ask you some questions?�h (Powell)

�gUuuugh!�h (Clara)

�gThe usual ones for the record, yes? I�fve already pre beared for them, so go ahead.�h (Ellie)

�gThen, can you pawsibly tell me how many you dispatched in total�h (Powell)

�gThere were close to 90 of them inside the den, a bearantly.�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs a bit less than expected, but very well. Were there any a bearations you noticed?�h (Powell)

�gNothing major. The only thing that stands out is that the den seems much deeper than we thought. It was hard
keeping our bearings in there.�h (Ellie)

�g Beary good, Mrs Quasse. That will be all. I will return shortly with the compensation.�h (Powell)

�gI understand. I will wait patiently fur your return.�h (Ellie)

He drags the trolley off into the back with a satisfied smile on his face.

I�fm making one too, it�fs rare to find a worthy op punent in this country!
Hmm?

Clara seems to have retreated back to her counter in the middle of that exchange.

Well, her part in the conversation was more or less over with the introduction.

Now then, back to the request board.

�eEscort our caravan to the-�f

�gAck! It�fs you!�h (Cat-folk Adventurer)

�gHmm?�h (Ellie)

There�fs a group of five men standing at the entrance to the guild.

Three humans, one dwarf and one cat-folk.

The one in front, the cat-man, is pointing at me with an angry face.

I think I�fve seen him before, but I can�ft quite put my finger on it.

I�fve met several cat-folk adventurers before.

Well, more like �eeducated�f rather than �emet.�f

But black fur like his is rather common, so I have trouble recognizing him.

It�fs really hard for me to tell them apart by their face.

It may be a bit racist, but they all sort of look the same to me.

�gWho�fs this, boss?�h (Human Swordsman)

�gThis is her! One of those people that cost me that big score half a year ago!�h (Cat-folk Adventurer)

Half a year ago?

Oh, he turned to face his comrade, so I can see his profile!

�gIf it isn�ft Flatface!? Fancy meeting you here!�h (Ellie)

I forgot his real name though.

I think it started with a G?

�gGuh! I told you to stop calling me that!�h (Flatface)

�gBut it fits so well�c�h (Ellie)

�gOh no you don�ft! I�fm onto you! I�fm not falling for your cheap provocations!�h (Flatface)

I�fm not trying to provoke him though.

Not this time anyway.

�gIt was my bad. I�fm sorry for being rude just now.�h (Ellie)

Clara, who�fs watching at us from behind the counter, seems rather disappointed.

I do want to show off a bit since a fan is watching, but antagonizing him without good reason is pointless.

�gSo what�fs a lowly Rank B like yourself doing here?�h (Flatface)

Rank A is important to Kira so she would definitely correct him here.

But since she�fs not here, I will do it in her stead.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gWe�fre Rank A now though.�h (Ellie)

�gHah! As if a coward like yourself could ever be-�h (Flatface)

I hold up my Adventurer�fs Card so they can clearly see it.

He shuts up immediately when he sees the gold border.

I guess this sort of situation is why they look different from regular cards, huh?

�gOh! A new Rank A? Congratulations, girlie!�h (Dwarf Adventurer)

�gAnd you chose Enforcer, huh? That�fs rather noble of you to help out the guards like that!�h (Human
Swordsman)

�gDragonbane? Don�ft tell me you�fre part of the rumored team that took down that Elder Dragon!�h (Human
Mage)

�gEllie of [Black Flame]?! My sister�fs a big fan! Could you give me your autograph for her?�h (Human
Shieldbearer)

�gSure, I don�ft mind! Clara?�h (Ellie)

�gOf course, Ellie! Here you go!�h (Clara)

I put away my card and accept the paper and pen from Clara.

She always seems prepared for impromptu autographs sessions like this.

Well, usually it�fs for one of Clara's friends, though.

�gAh, her name�fs Firea!�h (Human Shieldbearer)

�eTo Firea - All the best and be more mindful of your big brother. �f

I write that out, add my signature and hand it to him.

�gAh! Thank you very much!�h (Human Shieldbearer)

That second bit is something he was too embarrassed to request, but I added it anyway.

Flatface is just staring at this happening, still unable to think properly.

Maybe he broke?

�gMrs Quasse, I have your compensation ready.�h (Powell)

Ah, that clerk is back with a sizable coin purse.

I gratefully accept it from him and tie it to my belt.

�gHey Powell! Where�fs that Spider-Bear subjugation request?�h (Human Mage)

�gAh, that one was completed just recently.�h (Powell)

�gBut it was right here yesterday!�h (Human Mage)

�gYes, the team that completed it did so in one day.�h (Powell)

I see, he can�ft really say it was us since that would be giving away personal information.

�gLook, you know I�fm a Seeker of Knowledge, so just tell me who did it! I�fm curious to know how they made
that trip so quickly!�h (Human Mage)

Oh right, these guys were Rank A and also have their own Perks.

Well, it�fs fine, it�fs not that big a deal anyway.

�gVery well, if you insist. It was actually Mrs Quasse and her team.�h (Powell)

They stare at me in surprise, so I nod back to them.

This seems to snap Flatface out of his stupor.

He seems to have decided I stole his request somehow.

Misdirected anger much?

He should be more like his teammates.

�gWow, as expected huh?�h (Human Shieldbearer)

�gWell, they do have that flying fortress that�fs looming over the city, it�fs not that big a surprise.�h (Dwarf
Adventurer)

�gThere�fs gaps like this even within the same Rank, huh?�h (Human Swordsman)

{�gEllie, we're done at the castle, so come meet up with us!"} (Kira)

�gExcuse me, but I have to run. Bye Clara.�h (Ellie)

�gBye Ellie!�h (Clara)

As I start to leave, I walk past the 5-man team, but Flatface has a silly idea.

He has decided to steal the coin purse off me in some misguided revenge plan.

So I effortlessly grab his hand that has a small blade in it, just before it cuts the string connecting the purse to my
belt.

�gYou, you just tried to rob me, right?�h (Ellie)

I glare at him while he struggles in vain to free his hand.

�gGuh!�h (Flatface)

�gBoss?�h (Human Swordsman)

I was going to ignore him at first, but this is something Kira and me worked to obtain.

�gYou should already know I�fm an Enforcer, right?�h (Ellie)

He wanted to take what belongs to Kira.

�gUhm! Uhh!�h (Flatface)

�gThen whatever happens next�c is what you deserve, right?�h (Ellie)

�gPlease don�ft break my arm.�h (Flatface)

�gOkay.�h (Ellie)

�gR-really?�h (Flatface)

*SNAP*

�gGYAAAAA!�h (Flatface)

I broke his leg instead.

�gBrilliant Enforcing, Ellie!�h (Clara)

Huhuhu, picking this perk was a good choice!

Chapter 106 - Kids think of pets as their friends. Adults think of pets as
their kids - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I caught up with Kira, Ariel and the kids in a small park.

�gHi Mom!�h (Lara)

�gMommy!�h (Sophie)

�gHey Ellie ~?! Did everything work out at the guild?�h (Kira)

�gI got our reward with absolutely no problems.�h (Ellie)

Flatface wasted a bit of my time, but it was no big deal.

Since his comrades pleaded for his case saying he�fs a hopeless idiot, I let him off without too much of an issue.

I already educated his rebellious limb, so I had no problems with that.

They're a good team, those guys.

Oh, there was one other thing that happened!

�gThey actually gave us a 10% bonus in the amount for our hard work lately.�h (Ellie)

It seems the Grandmaster was grateful to us for quickly cleaning up all those high-ranking requests.

He isn�ft allowed to openly show favoritism, so this much is the most he can do.

�gHow wonderful! I should do this sort of harvest more often!�h (Kira)

Harvest, huh?

Well, it�fs not entirely wrong.

None of the requests were particularly difficult, we just fought monsters who move on instinct after all.

Ariel�fs healing magic didn�ft get a chance to shine.

Although her magic bombardment from the air is quite effective.

It was refreshing to have the flying combatant on our side for once.

Speaking of Ariel, she�fs silently behaving herself since the kids are around.

I suspect children have some sort of calming effect on her.

Almost everyone in the Church of Enuri has a soft spot for kids, you see.

�gDid you two have fun at the palace?�h (Ellie)

�gNot really�c we had to sit through that long presentation.�h (Lara)

�gYeah. Shalia was bored too, but we didn�ft get to play much.�h (Sophie)

�gThat princess isn�ft bullying you, right?�h (Ellie)

�gNo, nothing like that. She�fs a bit weird, but she treats us like any of the other kids in Runetap.�h (Lara)

�gIt was strange! She didn�ft even know how to play Goblins!�h (Sophie)

�gOh, that�fs right! What sort of kid doesn�ft know how to play Goblins! It really shocked us!�h (Lara)

Admittedly, I also had no idea what that game was when I saw it the first time.

It just seemed like they were running around the park aimlessly.

Nano said it�fs the same as something called �eTag�f but I didn�ft know that one either.

�gYou�fre being careful when running around, right?�h (Ellie)

�gYes, Mom(my)...�h (Lara and Sophie)

What�fs with that dispirited response?

It�fs only the 86th time I�fve warned them!

We�fre not even into three digits, you know!

Ah, but today was tough for them so I�fll let it slide.

I turn back to Kira who�fs just smiling pleasantly at us.

�gSo�c Kira�c how did it go?�h (Ellie)

It�fs the big question!

She was presenting the first (sort-of) invention of the (future) Ministry of Progress - a hand-operated printing press!

�gUmm, it was not exactly as planned. The demonstration worked okay and they were impressed with the speed
and convenience, but they questioned the need to have a lot of books.�h (Kira)

�gI see�c�h (Ellie)

That�fs a let down.

It�fs the first thing Nano decided to introduce to this world.

Thing is, paper is really cheap and easy to find.

It�fs not manufactured, but grown by the elves.

They maintain special tree farms that produce paper-like leaves.

Ink is also relatively cheap and easy to find since they mix by using common ingredients like Night Berry juice and
charcoal.

So people have the ability and materials to write all they want!

The thing is, there are not many books.

Since all of them have to be written by hand.

�gNano insisted that was its primary function, but I agree with those ministers. Do we really need books that
badly?�h (Kira)

{Of course. If we want to properly educate children, then having lots of books is a given, right?}

�gThat wasn�ft a big problem in the Magic Academy though. We seldom used books during class, and even when
we did the instructor would just read it out to us while we took notes. I mean, I spent a lot of time in the library
studying up on magical theory, but that was just me. Yes... only me...�h (Kira)

So that�fs how it was.

Kira�fs making her I-remembered-something-I-didn�ft-want-to face.

I should comfort her later.

�gAlso, what we�fre trying to do is go for variety right? So we need a wide range of materials rather than many
copies of a single book.�h (Kira)

{You may be right, but that could change in the future.}

Come to think of it, this world doesn�ft have any real need of a printing press right now.

There isn�ft anything like a holy text that needs to be spread to the ends of the world.

Storytelling is done mainly by bards and minstrels in the form of song.

History is recorded, but only those looking to join the military care about it.

And pursuit of scientific knowledge as a whole is practically nonexistent.

The study of magic, on the other hand, is something that relies on practice, feeling and mental images.

Things you can�ft really put into a book.

Hmm?

Why not?

�gWell, in the end they still liked Nano�fs idea of a �enewspaper�f, so they will produce a number of them.�h
(Kira)

Now that, on the other hand, is something this world sorely lacks!

An efficient way to let the whole country know of important events!

Having news spread by word of mouth is unreliable and slow.

To have this backup suggestion ready just in case, Nano is well prepared as expected!

Then if the need for printed books arises later, they�fll at least have the tools to make them!

�gSo, that back there was a good thing?�h (Lara)

�gThose old people seemed happy with Mommy�fs fancy desk, right?�h (Sophie)

�gThat�fs right, sweetie! The king and his ministers really liked our first official proposal! Like this we�fll have
more credibility when we get serious next year!�h (Kira)

Well, it sounds like it was for the wrong reasons, but a win�fs a win, right?

�gI see! Then congrats Mom!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! I�fm so proud of you Mommy! But, is credidibility tasty?�h (Sophie)

�gCredibility means they�fll trust us more, Sophie.�h (Ellie)

�gOhh! So it�fs not something tasty�c�h (Sophie)

She must be hungry, judging from that disappointed face.

Let�fs stop by a food stall on the way back, there�fs plenty of time until dinner anyway.

�gI�fll have to show that printing press to Baron Luron, too. The Runetap City Guard will love it! They use so
many documents that something like this is sure to save them a lot of time!�h (Kira)

Kira makes a suggestion I can�ft really support.

On the surface, she�fs got the right idea.

They use many different forms, all of them made by hand.

Often the guardsman in question will prepare a new form themselves on the spot.

Also, every new recruit is required to transcribe each of their handbook�fs three volumes for themselves.

But doing it that way helps them memorize the contents easier.

Plus, volume three seems to be mostly filled with form templates anyway.

Then there�fs the thing about the assistant librarian position.

Those people literally just copy forms from dawn til dusk.

It�fs a harsh punishment for recruits who haven�ft learned their forms yet.

It�fs partly why so many of the guards are diligent.

Mind-numbing and repetitive work like that is something everybody hates, after all.
However, these are things Kira wouldn�ft know since she refuses to read everybody�fs thoughts like I do.

While most thoughts get ignored as background noise, I do notice some patterns that show up here and there.

Therefore, I should stop her before she ruins a good system!

�gKira, I don�ft think they�fll be that happy. Paperwork is how they cope with their jobs. Think about
Olboun�fs face when he�fs working on his forms.�h (Ellie)

Kira blinks a few times, probably recalling our interactions with Olboun.

He complains on the surface, but he�fs actually glad to be doing something simple like drawing forms by hand.

Otherwise he has to deal with things like hunting mimics, fighting giant zombie rats in the sewer, subduing the
violent confrontations that happen daily or defending the city from monster invasion.

�gCompared to the things those people deal with on a regular basis, paperwork is like a tiny vacation. We have no
right to take it from them.�h (Ellie)

�gThat�c is a good point.�h (Kira)

***

�gHumm hmm hmm ~?�h (Kira)

Kira is peacefully chopping ingredients in the kitchen while humming some tune.

She�fs preparing another beef and carrot casserole for dinner!

It�fs a celebration for today�fs success with the printing press!

I�fm just watching the magic happen.

�gHehe, Ellie being here makes me want to try harder!�h (Kira)

{Don�ft try too hard. We wouldn�ft want your mana to infect the ingredients.}

That�fs right, not that kind of magic.

That kind of magic tastes bad!

I�fm talking about culinary magic!

�gDon�ft be like that. I�fm using a Titansteel knife you know�c�h (Kira)

{I�fm sure you�fll find a way. You always find a way.}

�gNano, you know I�fll eat anything Kira makes so don�ft be so hard on her.�h (Ellie)

{No, that�fs exactly why I�fm being hard on her!}

Ah, now the moment is ruined!

Kira has stopped humming and her hands lost their vigor!

Bad Nano!

�gMom! Mom! Come quick!�h (Lara)

�gWhat�fs wrong, Lara!?�h (Kira)

Lara bursts into the kitchen in a rush.

�gIt�fs hatching! It�fs hatching!�h (Lara)

�gOh! It�fs finally here! Show me!�h (Kira)

She stops what she�fs doing and runs out with Lara.

I stealthily turn off the stove and follow them.

Fire hazards are bad, okay?

�gNano, call Kelly and Ariel! They should see this too!�h (Ellie)

{Already did!}

We go up the stairs and into the girls�f bedroom.

Sophie�fs sitting on the bed while holding the gryphon egg in her lap.

The egg itself seems slightly bigger than Sophie in this situation�c

�gAh!�h (Sophie)

She let out a little voice as the egg shook!

*Crack*

�gPiiii!�h (Gryphon Chick)

Part of the rock-like shell broke off and a tiny chirp came out of it!

*Crack*

The hard egg is slowly being broken apart from the inside!

Fight!

You can do it, little one!

�gPiiii!�h (Gryphon Chick)

With a triumphant cry, the egg shell was shattered in pieces!

Inside was a creature that was roughly as big as Sophie.

A short, sharp looking yellow beak and keen brown eyes!

Leathery bird-like front feet, already equipped with tiny talons ready for grabbing things!

Soft looking-paws on the hind feet!

A long tail with a bushy end!

Light brown plumage on its front half!

Soft, golden fuzz on its rear half!

And finally, extremely ruffled wings from its sides!

The basic shape is more or less a miniature Shull.

But while Shull could be described as �emajestic�f or �eproud,�f there�fs only one word that comes to mind
when looking this one.

�gIt�fs so fluffy!�h (Sophie)

Yep, that.

�gWow it�fs so cute! Look at the little guy!�h (Lara)

Or maybe that.

�gPiiiii! Piii!�h (Gryphon Chick)

The newly hatched gryphon let out small cries of joy as Sophie and Lara started hugging and petting it.

�gOh my! I had no idea it would be this adorable! Hi there little guy!�h (Kira)

Kira extended a hand as if to pet it!

�gPiiyaa!�h (Gryphon Chick)

However, she was denied!

The gryphon got startled and moved away from her, standing behind Sophie and Lara.

How rude!

Ah, that�fs right!

It knows Sophie and Lara by instinct, but Kira is a complete stranger.

�gUuuu�c I was rejected�c�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs no good! You shouldn�ft be mean to Mommy like that!�h (Sophie)

It�fs barely been born and it was already scolded!

Poor guy is making round sad eyes at Sophie!

�gOi! Did I miss it?�h (Kelly)

Kelly barges into the room.

Her work overalls are covered in soot and there�fs a weird stain on her cheek.

She must have been down in Nano�fs workshop.

�gArgh! I wanted to see the hatching!�h (Kelly)

�gSo where is Lara and Sophie�fs new servant?�h (Ariel)

Ariel pokes her head through the door with some interest.

Her expression softens when she sees the new baby poking out from behind Sophie�fs back.

It seems she really is weak towards children and, by extension, baby gryphons.

Pretty much the entire room is busy fawning over this ball of fuzz.

I also want to scratch its neck like Lara is doing right now.

However, the others seem to be forgetting something.

*Clap*

I slap my hands together to get their attention.

�gLet�fs keep in mind what Brand said about crowding it!�h (Ellie)

We shouldn�ft confuse the baby and leave it to get better acquainted with its �eparents�f.

In this case, that would be Sophie and Lara.

�gOut! Out! There�fs going to be plenty of time to introduce ourselves later!�h (Ellie)

�gBut but!�h (Kira)

�g... She has a point!�h (Kelly)

�gYes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

Honestly, all these people getting too carried away!

It�fs okay though, I�fll be the responsible one for the sake of this new addition to our family.

Since I�fm the mom.

I gently nudge everyone out of the room to give the newborn some space.

Once they�fve all been cleared out, I turn towards the two from the doorway.

�gGirls, make sure you give it a name and properly introduce yourselves! We�fll visit later!�h (Ellie)
That was another thing Brand said - it�fs important for it to recognize names ASAP.

�gThen! Then! Fluffles! Hi Fluffles! I�fm Sophie!�h (Sophie)

�gAh no! Sis we should name it something cool like Razorbeak or Powerclaw or maybe-�h (Lara)

�gBut it�fs so fluffy! How can it be anything other than Fluffles?�h (Sophie)

�gPiiii!�h (Fluffles)

�gSee? He likes it!�h (Sophie)

�gPiii pii piiii!�h (Fluffles)

It�fs jumping up and down excitedly.

�gAw man�c Well, it is pretty cute�c Hey Fluffles, I�fm Lara!�h (Lara)

�gPiii!�h (Fluffles)

�gOh and that�fs Ellie! She�fs one of our moms so make sure you�fre not mean, okay?�h (Lara)

Ack!

In the end I also got carried away and forgot I was supposed to leave the room!

Fluffles looks in my direction, then stands properly facing me.

He lowers his head, tilting his torso forward while lifting one of its front feet slightly.

It�fs an unquestionable curtsy.

�gPiyo!�h (Fluffles)

I nod my head approvingly.

�gGood to meet you too, Fluffles.�h (Ellie)

�gPiyo!�h (Fluffles)

He also nods his head slightly and goes back to a neutral stance.

Such a good-mannered child, he�fll do well in this house!

Chapter 107 - A midnight emergency doesn't always mean wetting the
bed - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

Hmm!

A strange noise woke me up!

I stand up on top of the bed in a low stance and scan the room!

It�fs dark, but my eyes see just fine!

�gHmm... Wha-? Ellie?�h (Kira)

Kira is rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

Looks like my sudden movement woke her up.

�gI heard a-�h (Ellie)

*CRACK*

�g...�h (Ellie and Kira)

There�fs the noise again!

It�fs the gryphon egg between us!

The larger one that looks like a rock!

Skin contact is important when hatching it, so me and Kira have been sleeping while holding it between us!

It�fs a bit sad I got to feel less of Kira�fs warmth these last two weeks, but it�fs about to pay off!

�gWait, it�fs hatching already!?�h (Kira)

It shakes a bit as if in response!

�gLights on!�h (Kira)

The dark room was lit up in an instant.

{Kelly said this so-called Winter Gryphon would take twice as long to hatch, right?}

�gYeah, so did Brand!�h (Kira)

Ah, there was something like that.

We started hatching both eggs at the same time.

But the one we gave to Lara and Sophie hatched just a few hours ago!
Admittedly it took a bit longer than the expected two weeks, but the gryphon came out okay.

Therefore, this one is coming out way too early!

�gKira, what do we do!?�h (Ellie)

�gI don�ft know! Nano! Wake Kelly up and get her up here!�h (Kira)

{Okay!}

However, it doesn�ft seem like Kelly will have that opportunity.

*CRACK*

�gPiiiiiii!�h (Gryphon Chick)

Before we could do anything about it, a small feathery head poked itself through the shell.

Well, there�fs nothing we could�fve really done, to be honest.

The feathery head that poked out looks quite similar to Fluffles.

The beak is narrower and black in color, while the plumage is white with some dark spots.

Also, its eyes shine a bright blue.

I get the feeling they�fre literally glowing, actually.

The premature hatching got me really on edge!

But it looks like it was safely born!

*SLAM*

�gWhat�fs goin- ACK!�h (Kelly)

Kelly burst through the door and immediately covered her eyes with a weird shout.

It looks like Nano woke her up and told her to come up here, but what�fs with that reaction?

�gPut some clothes on!�h (Kelly)

Oh right, we�fre still laying around naked on the bed!

�gKelly! Look! Our egg hatched early!�h (Kira)

Kira called out her amazement while I was busy wrapping the bedsheet around us.

Kelly risks a peek through her fingers.

�gHuh? Wait, what!? That can happen?�h (Kelly)

�gWhy are you asking us!? Aren�ft you supposed to be the gryphon expert around here?�h (Kira)
�gI don�ft know! I�fve never even heard of something like this�c�h (Kelly)

Kelly walked closer to the gryphon, looking at it curiously.

�gPiyachoo!�h (Gryphon Chick)

*FWOOSH*

It sneezed.

Only instead of spit and snot, what came out was a plume of blue flame that vanished instantly with a puff of smoke.

�g...�h (Everyone)

Even the gryphon is startled!

�gHaaaaa-huu!�h (Gryphon Chick)

*FWOOSH*

It took a deep breath and exhaled a tiny fireball that flew for about half a meter before it went out.

The newborn gryphon looked at Kira and me, then it nodded towards nobody in particular before slowly retreating
back inside its shell.

Wait, isn�ft this Kira's bad habit!?

�gNooo! Come back! Rejecting reality like this is bad!�h (Ellie)

I grab the shell and peek inside, but all I�fm greeted with is a feather-covered back that does not wish to be
disturbed.

�g...�h (Kira)

�gI think�c it fell asleep.�h (Ellie)

The little chest inside is slowly expanding and contracting while soft breathing noises come out.

�gHuh. Well, that happened. See you two in the morning.�h (Kelly)

Kelly turns around and starts taking stiff steps away from us.

For some reason it feels like creaking noises are coming from her.

She walks into our bathroom...

Does she want to sleep in there?

Ah, she's back out!

�g *Ahem* Wrong door. I�fll be going now...�h (Kelly)

This time, she successfully navigates her way out of our bedroom.
�gKnow what? I think these two have the right idea. Good night Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

�gAh! Yeah, good night Kira!�h (Ellie)

We share our second good night kiss for the evening and go back into bed just like before.

With the quietly snoring egg still between us.

***

�gHey Red. I see those two are getting along.�h (Kelly)

�gOh hey Kelly. Finally crawled out of your little hole-in-the-ground-in-the-sky?�h (Kira)

�gFetch boy!�h (Ellie)

I toss the stick so it flies over him.

His vision focuses, tracks it, and he leaps!

*Snap*

�gWoah! What was that?�h (Kelly)

�gEllie�fs playing with the newest addition to our little household.�h (Kira)

He brings it back to me and hands it back, puffing his chest out with pride!

�gGood boy! That was a great catch as usual!�h (Ellie)

I take it from his beak and pat his feathers as a reward.

�gPiyororororo!�h (Puff)

Huhuhu, what a delightful purr-like noise!

I can honestly relate to that feeling of happiness!

�gNo, I mean, what exactly are they doing?!�h (Kelly)

�gPlaying fetch. I know it�fs a game normally for dogs, but Puff seems to really enjoy it.�h (Kira)

Okay, let�fs do it again!

�gGo on, Puff, one more time!�h (Ellie)

He bounds off towards his spot.

�gI was worried he would never come out of that shell, you know? It wasn�ft until we gave him his name that he
got enough confidence to show his face. So seeing him energetic like this really makes me glad.�h (Kira)

�gWait, you named him Puff?�h (Kelly)

�gGo on boy, fetch!�h (Ellie)

I throw the stick as hard as I could.

It was still caught magnificently!

Puff�fs reflexes and motor skills are already really good!

You wouldn�ft think he�fs only a day old!

It won�ft be a few months until his wings are strong enough to fly, but his jumping power is already formidable!

�gYeah, Puff the Magic Gryphon. Nano�fs idea. It has a good ring to it, don�ft you agree?�h (Kira)

�gNo, nevermind that! Ellie what in blazes are you two doing!?�h (Kelly)

�gOh, hey Kelly! We�fre playing, can�ft you see?�h (Ellie)

�gNo, I can�ft see it. Like, at all!�h (Kelly)

I accept the stick from Puff and continue petting him as his reward.

�gGood boy, Puff!�h (Ellie)

�gAh, she�fs not listening�c�h (Kelly)

�gIt�fs your loss-�h (Kira)

�g-if I mind it. Right, sorry.�h (Kelly)

***

I really wanted to take Puff along with us, but the crowds would probably scare and confuse him like Kira frightened
Fluffles.

So until they get their confidence, we can�ft bring them to crowded places like the Minstry of Information.

In the end we decided to leave the gryphons and the kids behind so they can get to know each other.

Hopefully Puff doesn�ft show off too much in front of Fluffles.

They�fre basically brothers, it won�ft be good if one of them gets too jealous!

Especially since Fluffles is technically the older one!

Being shown up by Puff�fs flame breath is bound to hurt his pride!

*Knock knock*

Kira knocks on a certain door inside the Ministry of Information.

Technically, only Kira needed to come here.

But since Kira�fs here, I�fm naturally following!

�gMrs Quasse! Th-th-this is a surprise! Wait, what is she doing there?!�h (Lilly)

And since we�fre both here, Ariel followed us like it�fs natural.

�gOh, Inspector Alasandara! This one is humbled to be remembered.�h (Ariel)

Wow, she actually bowed down to Lilly!

Usually she thinks herself above everyone who isn�ft related to Kira!

No, I suppose Lilly was the one who arrested her back then, so maybe she admitted to be beneath her?

There�fs no middle ground with Ariel.

Either you�fre beneath her and get sneered at, or you�fre above her and she wants to grovel at your feet.

�gLong story short, she�fs the newest addition to our team. She�fs our responsibility since it seems we, uh,
�ebroke�f her�c�h (Kira)

�gAh! You must mean that. She�fs still doing it?�h (Lilly)

�gThis one does not understand what Inspector Alasandara is referring to.�h (Ariel)

�gIf you mean whether she�fs still an incorrigible pervert and hopeless masochist whose sole redeeming feature is
being a potion that walks-�h (Kira)

�gHahn! Hnnng!�h (Ariel)

�g-then the answer is yes.�h (Kira)

�gI�c see�c Ah! The other Mrs Quasse is here with you! My apologies for not n-noticing earlier!�h (Lilly)

I�fm a bit hurt.

I wasn�ft even hiding myself by accident this time!

But she seems to be troubled by something, so I won�ft hold it against her!

�gGood day, Lilly! Have you been well?�h (Ellie)

�gYes, m-mostly. So what can I help you with, Mrs Quasse?�h (Lilly)

�gMay we come in? There�fs something important I wish to discuss.�h (Kira)

�gOf course! Er, my office is a bit cramped so�c�h (Lilly)

She stands to the side and the three of us file inside.

She wasn�ft kidding when she said cramped.

There�fs barely anywhere to sit down!

Well, standing meetings are not a bad thing.

�gThank you. Forgive us for dropping in like this. There�fs something a bit personal I wish to talk about.�h
(Kira)

�gAny time, Mrs Quasse.�h (Lilly)

�gThank you. I�fll get straight to the point. You know of the Vestments of the Empire, right?�h (Kira)

�gVes- Uhm. Y-yes, I�fve, uh, h-h-heard of it!�h (Lilly)

That was a strange reaction, I wonder if something happened during a visit?

Huh, something about the Forbidden Flavor cake, is it?

�gThe truth is, the head chef there, a Mister Zublos, wants to open a branch store here in the capital, but was denied
due to his background.�h (Kira)

�gAh! Yes, I know of him. It�fs t-true someone of his, um, social standing would not be permitted to open shop
around here.�h (Lilly)

She�fs relieved we didn�ft find something out, huh?

Oh I see, it was her report that denied Zublos�fs request.

Anyone else would have reached the same conclusion.

Zublos is a suspiciously unsealed Ancient Evil being after all.

As usual, she probably feels bad about doing her job.

So that behavior earlier really wasn't about the cake, it makes sense.

I mean, the waitress told me something about having strange dreams after eating it.

However, my dream that night was the usual make-love-to-Kira-with-all-my-might dream.

I have one of those almost every night.

In short - it was a dud.

Well, actually there were two Kiras that night, so it did get a little weird...

�gI�fm here to ask if you know a way to overturn the background check.�h (Kira)

This is the main reason Kira came here.

She's determined to hire Zublos as a teacher.

I�fm a bit wary of that guy since I can�ft read his head, though.

It�fs not that he�fs blocking my mind-reading, it�fs more accurate to say he�fs not thinking anything at all!

Like reading a blank page, there�fs just nothing going on in there!

How does that guy even function!?

Still, it�fs hard to fault him when his entire staff supports him wholeheartedly.

�gI understand. Unfortunately, background checks are impossible to overturn. He can�ft change his origins, after
all. However, there�fs a loophole - if he were to become a Rank A adventurer, then he�fs entitled to buy a plot of
land in the Capital regardless of social standing.�h (Lilly)

Oh right, that was a right Rank A adventurers had!

Very few people actually take advantage of it though.

Both the tax and land in this city are expensive, but that shop owner can probably afford them.

�gEasier said than done! I don�ft think a busy man like that has the sort of time to go around adventuring.�h
(Kira)

�gHe�fs already a Rank C adventurer, you know?�h (Lilly)

�gReally? I had no idea. Still, it would take years to reach Rank B and even then it�fll take longer before he�fs
trusted enough to earn a promotion past that! It�fs not like an Elder Dragon will pop out conveniently like it did for
us!�h (Kira)

I don�ft think those words are quite right, Kira�c

It was very far from being convenient.

�gNo, but the Grand Martial Arts Tournament is right around the corner. It�fs not very well known, but winning it
and being named Champion is enough of an achievement to boost one from Rank B to Rank A.�h (Lilly)

�gReally?! I had no idea! Why don�ft more people do that?�h (Kira)

�gSince getting promoted that way is basically a shortcut, the only perk available to people who get promoted like
that is Cash Out. It�fs not like the guild can trust someone who came down from the mountains and won a few
fights, you see.�h (Lilly)

That�fs right, the guild doesn�ft offer all perks to everyone.

Can�ft trust a foreigner with Seeker of Knowledge, for example.

Cash Out, on the other hand, is just a straight one-time payoff from the guild.

It�fs pretty dull.

I mean if you want money, you can just do more jobs!

Admittedly, it�fs still a sizable sum that made Kira waver mightily when deciding her Perk.

�gI see, it makes sense. It�fs a bit of a longshot, but it�fs possible. Thank you so much for your help, Lilly!�h
(Kira)

�gAnytime, Mrs Quasse.�h (Lilly)

�gCome now, I told you to call me Kiressara! You�fre one of the few people willing to do that, you know!�h
(Kira)

�gHuh? Huh? Umm, if it�fs okay with you, K-Kiressara.�h (Lilly)

Oh, what�fs this now?

Lilly�fs getting embarrassed again.

�c

�gEllie, what�fs wrong? You seem awfully serious all of a sudden?�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs nothing. Let�fs go Kira. Now.�h (Ellie)

�gEh, but- Uhm!�h (Kira)

I grab her hand and drag her out.

We have to get as far away from Lilly as we can, immediately!

�gSorry about this Lilly! Bye, and thanks!�h (Kira)

We leave the small office as I keep dragging her towards the exit to the building.

�gWhat was that about Ellie!? You were awfully rude!�h (Kira)

�gNo, I wasn�ft.�h (Ellie)

I was being thoughtful.

My anger rose like an erupting volcano!

The only reason I�fm keeping it together is that she�fs a friend who just happened to have a strange thought!

It better remain as just a strange thought!

Otherwise I will tear those things right off her head!

T?H????E?????? ???O?????N???LY??? ?E??A?R???S???? ??KIR???A???? ?I??S????? ???????A?

L??L?O??W????E???????D??????? ?T???O????? ?????T???O??U????C??????H????? ???????
A???????R??????E???? ???????M??I???????N?????E??!???????
Chapter 108 - It's all fun and games until someone loses it - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gVery well, Mrs Quasse. I will take that into account.�h (King Fred)

�gThank you, Your Majesty. Then, we shall take our leave.�h (Kira)

�gUntil we meet again, Mrs Quasse!�h (Grandmaster)

Looks like it�fs finally over!

We start walking out of the audience chamber.

�gNow then Kilroy, tell me about this underwater cave thing!�h (King Fred)

The king and the Grandmaster start talking about that cave that�fs supposedly full of pearls.

Well, our part in this meeting is over, so that�fs none of our business!

Fred wanted to hear Kira�fs input on what to do with for the first issue of the Wyvernews bi-monthly newspaper.

They�fre going to distribute several thousand copies to all major cities using wyvern express mail starting next
year.

That�fs where the name came from, you see.

It�fs a trial run, so the first issue is a small booklet of only 12 pages.

The first two pages will be an article describing the new Ministry of Progress and the king�fs hopes for the future.

The next four pages are going to be about other major events that have happened in the last few months.

The Elder Dragon attack and that old fart�fs failed coup are part of that.

Pages 7 through 10 will belong to the Adventurer�fs Guild.

That section is mostly going to be focused on information useful for adventurers, as well as articles about promising
newcomers.

It�fs because Kira convinced them to become a sponsor.

'If the Crown has more money, then our department will also have more money' was the reason she did it.

The Grandmaster liked the idea, so he brought the proposal to some guild meeting and it was accepted.

The Guild and the Crown may be completely different organizations, but they get along pretty well.

Ultimately all three major sections of this first issue will involve Kira and me in some way.

Kira demanded they keep our names out of it as much as possible, though.
She doesn�ft want fame to interfere with her family life, so she was really insistent.

There may have been some musings about the probability of the ocean swallowing up the royal castle in a giant
wave.

Or how it was natural for Adventurer�fs Guild buildings to disappear into the ground for no discernible reason.

Well, they both understood her wishes, so it all ended well.

Me?

I was there because the last two pages were meant for entertainment.

In other words - 16 Sudoku puzzles and a brief introduction to the game.

The king seems sure it would catch on among the general populace.

I think he just wants an excuse to get more puzzles out of me.

Well, Nano�fs the one who made them, I just had to hand them over.

As we exit the audience chamber, we see Lara waiting for us.

Wait, what!?

�gHey Mom and Mom! You took a while!�h (Lara)

They were supposed to be having fun with Shalia!

�gLara! Why are you out here by yourself! Did that airhead not listen to me!?�h (Kira)

And Ariel was supposed to keep an eye on them!

�gHuh? But the king said we could do what we wanted here as long as we didn�ft disturb the old guys�c�h
(Lara)

No, you two are not being escorted so that you won�ft cause trouble!

You�fre being escorted because we want you to be safe!

I mean yes, the royal family is here so the place is very well guarded, but their personal safety is not something we
can trust anybody else with!

Kira kneels down and grabs her shoulder with a worried face!

�gLara, we�fll talk about that later! Where�fs your sister?�h (Kira)

Ack, she�fs not here at all!

I should have noticed earlier, I�fm a failure as a parent!

They�fre always together, so I assumed she was nearby!

�gShe�fs having tea in Shalia�fs room with her and miss Ariel.�h (Lara)

She pointed to somewhere deeper in the castle.

�gThen why are you out here standing in the hallway like this!?�h (Kira)

�gI was waiting for you to finish�c was it bad?�h (Lara)

�gYes! I mean�c only because you were by yourself! Next time bring your sister and Ariel along, got it? I worry
sick whenever you run around unsupervised like that!�h (Kira)

�gWha!? But you let us do it all the time in Runetap!�h (Lara)

Well, that�fs mostly because Nano�fs drones silently keep an eye on them.

Plus his butler android is always nearby.

It�fs not stalking okay, he�fs just making sure nobody suspicious attacks them again!

But he can�ft do that inside this massive castle!

Right, time to put the proverbial foot down!

�gLara mil Quasse!�h (Ellie)

�gUh oh�c full name�c�h (Lara)

�gPlease understand it�fs for your own safety, okay? We don�ft want any more bad people to come and take you
away from us ever again.�h (Ellie)

Lara�fs eyes widen in shock and then she hangs her head.

�g... Yes. I understand. I�fm sorry Mom.�h (Lara)

We share a brief three-way hug.

She�fs a good kid, but she gets carried away sometimes.

While I don�ft want the memories of that incident to haunt her, she shouldn�ft forget it happened.

�gSo why were you waiting for us in the first place?�h (Kira)

�gUhm�c Can Shalia come over to our house to play?�h (Lara)

***

I�fm escorting the three girls back to our house.

Kira and Ariel already went ahead.

Kira wanted to give Ariel a rather extreme scolding for losing sight of Lara.

Ariel was looking forward to it though...

I don�ft think we can trust her with the girls anymore.

But Kelly is way too busy with Nano�fs project so she wasn�ft available.

Fluffles or Puff would be excellent bodyguards once they get older though.

Gryphons are tough, smart and have sharp instincts.

�gThank you for agreeing to my selfish request.�h (Shalia)

The princess smiles at me for bringing her along.

Apparently she really wanted to see our flying house.

We got permission from the Queen first, of course.

The king can�ft really be trusted when it comes to his daughter.

He spoils her way too much and instantly gives her what she wants without question!

�gIt�fs okay. Since you�fre my daughter�fs friend.�h (Ellie)

�gReally? We thought it wasn�ft allowed to have guests�c�h (Sophie)

�gYeah Mom! You never invite people over!�h (Lara)

�gNobody�fs really asked to visit before. I wonder why that is, though...�h (Ellie)

�gMaybe cause our house is hard to get to?�h (Lara)

Ah, that�fs true.

It�fs either flying or behind a password-protected [Gateway].

�gYeah, even we can�ft leave whenever we want.�h (Sophie)

Well, that�fs mostly on purpose though�c

Maybe we�fre stifling the girls too much?

I should have a talk with Kira later, see if we can�ft come up with something.

�gSpeaking of which, how are we going to get up there?�h (Shalia)

�gHmm? By flying of course.�h (Ellie)

�gF-Flying?�h (Shalia)

�gYou�fll see Shalia! It�fs really fun!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! Mommy�fs air rides are the best!�h (Sophie)

Speaking of which, we should be close enough.

�gUhm�c I think I f-forgot my, uh, woah! WAH!�h (Shalia)

�gWee!�h (Lara)

�gYaaay!�h (Sophie)

I gently picked up the three with my Telekinesis.

Huh?
[ ]
Hey Mister Author! You dropped these: (?�‹� �‹�j?
AN: Hmm? Oh crap! Uhm! Just leave them! I use those things completely at random anyway!
Really? Is that okay? Your readers are pretty understanding, so it�fs okay, right?
AN: Lines, Ellie! Do your lines!
Right! Sorry. Ahem.

I gently picked up the three with my Telekinesis.

Shalia is surprised since it�fs her first time experiencing it.

She�fll get used to it soon enough.

I take out my sword and start pouring mana into it.

�g ------- [Flight]�h (Ellie)

I start slowly, but surely ascending, carrying the three of them along.

There�fs no need to rush.

�gMommy, why did you use magic?�h (Sophie)

�gWaaah! We�fre flyiiing!�h (Shalia)

�gWhat do you mean?�h (Ellie)

�gCan�ft you give yourself an air-ride?�h (Sophie)

Hmm, it�fs difficult to explain�c

The brain acts as a linchpin, so using my own Telekinesis field to move myself around would cause-

Oh, I know!

�gYou know how this thing is like an invisible set of arms, right?�h (Ellie)

�gYes?�h (Sophie)

�gPlease put me down! And don�ft drop me!�h (Shalia)

�gWhich is it you want, Shalia?�h (Lara)

�gWell, can you pull yourself up with your own arm?�h (Ellie)
�gNeither! I mean both! Aaaah!�h (Shalia)

�gNo... Ohh! I see! Still, I wish I could do what you do�c�h (Sophie)

I keep quiet since I don�ft know how to respond.

I mean, the chance isn�ft zero, but it�fs extremely unlikely.

Plus, I don�ft want my daughter to suffer through nanite bonding.

It feels like someone�fs ripping out all of your nerves at once!

�c

I remembered something bad.

Must be running low on love and smiles, I should recharge with Kira soon!

�gWoah! It�fs way bigger up close!�h (Shalia)

Oh!

Her highness the princess seems to have snapped out of her panic!

That�fs good, maybe she won�ft flail about as much next time.

I land inside the black wall and let the three of them down.

�gThanks for the lift, Mom.�h (Sophie)

�gThat was a good experience�c I think�c�h (Shalia)

�gPiyaaa!�h (Fluffles)

�gOh hey Fluffles! Look we brought Shalia over!�h (Lara)

�gUwaah!�h (Shalia)

She hides behind me, scared of the approach mass of feathers and fur.

This princess really is too sheltered, isn�ft she?

�gIt�fs okay Shalia! This is our pet gryphon! He�fs real nice!�h (Lara)

�gYeah, go say hi, Fluffles!�h (Sophie)

�gPikyo.�h (Fluffles)

He greets her with a curt, but perfect curtsy.

Come to think of it, he got noticeably bigger in just a week.

Puff is growing up splendidly as well.

I can�ft really tell if Lara or Sophie have grown much in height, though...

�g... You�fre sure it�fs safe?�h (Shalia)

�gIt�fs fine! Look! Hup!�h (Sophie)

Sophie climbs up on his back like she�fs riding him.

Well, she really just wants to hug his feathery neck from behind.

He affectionately rubs her head his with his own.

�gHe�fs sooo soooofft!�h (Sophie)

�gUhm�c Hello Mister Fluffles.�h (Shalia)

Oh, she's greeting him properly!

�gPyo.�h (Fluffles)

�gThat�fs the spirit! You should meet Puff too! He�fs just as soft!�h (Lara)

�gPuff? What? There�fs another one?!�h (Shalia)

�gYeah! Puff was hatched by our moms! He does some really neat tricks!�h (Lara)

�gFluffles is cuter though.�h (Sophie)

The four of them are getting along perfectly from what I can tell.

Now then, I should go find-

{Attention everyone! Brand�fs coming back! He�fs about 2 kilometers out and headed this way.}

What, already?

It�fs only been 18 days, he�fs a bit early.

{However... Umph is with him.}

Uh oh.

�g WHAT!?�h (Kira)

*SLAM*

�gAs if dealing with one worthless bird-brain wasn�ft enough! I�fll smash him to bits!�h (Kira)

She came out of the tower with a huff.

Shalia is staring at her in mute shock while Lara and Sophie are petting Fluffles.

Kira is wearing the same face she had when that High Dragon showed up!
This is bad!

The Capital will definitely not recover from this!

{They say they�fre bringing in a lot of Titansteel. Apparently your idea was a huge success, so they sent you a gift.}

Kira freezes mid-stride, at the very good news, hesitating as to what to do!

An opening!

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

She turns toward me as I jump at her with arms held out.

*Pomf*

With a flawless motion, she receives the flying hug with both arms and spins me around in a full circle.

*Mmmmmwah*

There we go, much better!

�gWell hello to you too, Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

�gKira. I�fm critically low on love and smiles.�h (Ellie)

�gOh my ~?! We better do something about that right away ~?!�h (Kira)

In an instant she�fs already sitting cross legged on the grass with my head in her lap.

*Scritch scritch*

�gNyaaa�c. Nyaaa�c�h (Ellie)

�gHuhuhuhu!�h (Kira)

Kira�fs touch heals me faster than any potion!

I have no idea why I had so much stress built up, but it�fs all flowing away now!

�gWow�c I think I understand why their kids behave like they do�c�h (Shalia)

�gHmm?�h (Lara)

�gHuh?�h (Sophie)

�gPeyo?�h (Fluffles)

�gNo, never mind. So where�fs Puff? I want to meet him too!�h (Shalia)

The four of them go off towards the other end of the yard looking for Puff.

*Scritch scritch*
�gNyaaa�c Nyaaa�c Nyaaa�c Nyaaa�c�h (Ellie)

Hmm?

I spot Umph silently drop off Brand and a huge crate out of the corner of my eye.

Hopefully this lasts until-

*THUD*

�gJust a sec, Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

Uh oh.

The crate made a sound.

She stands up and swings her staff around!

Distraction mission failure!

�g ------ [High Thunder]�h (Kira)

*KRAKAKOOM*

�gGYAHHH!�h (Umph)

Umph takes it like a champ and just flies off at top speed!

Smart decision!

I thought he wanted to call Kira�fs bluff for a second!

{Good work, Ellie. We avoided the worst case scenario!}

I silently nod in acknowledgement.

�gI�fm not done with you! Come back here you stupid, worthless waste of space!�h (Kira)

Kira�fs waving her staff in anger at Umph�fs retreating form.

�gYou called, Mistress!?�h (Ariel)

�gGAAAH! --- [Thunder]�h (Kira)

*KRAKOOM*

�gHaburabura!�h (Ariel)

*Plop*

Ariel collapses with a thin layer of smoke rising from her head.

She�fll be alright though, if that blissed out face she�fs making is any indication.
�gHuff, huff, huff�c Fuuu�c Now where were we?�h (Kira)

�gLove and smiles.�h (Ellie)

�gOh, that�fs right ~?!�h (Kira)

*Scritch scritch*

�gNyaaa�c.�h (Ellie)

That�fs better.

My heart�fs reservoir isn�ft going to fill by itself, you know!

Psst! Binary Soul: Lip Service got updated!

Chapter 109 - Don't wait for a calendar to tell you when you should
enjoy life - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gSo, how did it go?�h (Kira)

He holds up his adventurer card so that we can see it.

--------------------------------------------------------------
NAME: ZUBLOS
TITLES:
TEAM: BLACK FLAME
POSITION: VANGUARD
RANK: B
STATUS: DISCIPLE (ELLIE MIL QUASSE)
--------------------------------------------------------------

How come even his card is loud?

�gWell, it looks like you�fve successfully registered. You still have just about a month to earn that Rank B, so
you better get busy!�h (Kira)

Zublos nods and heads off to check the request board.

Even in the Runetap Adventurer�fs Guild that guy sticks out like a sore thumb.

�gThanks so much for doing this sort of thing for the boss.�h (Lara A)

The waitress is here to translate from Zublos-ian as usual.

�gHmm? It�fs purely a business transaction, though.�h (Kira)

That�fs right, this whole thing is part of a deal between Kira and Zublos.

He�fd never make it all the way to Rank B in time for that big tournament on his own.

But since we�fre taking him on as a disciple, we can help him rise through the ranks faster.

In return for that, he has to pay half of the money he earns through commissions to Kira.

Obviously we can�ft catapult him straight to Rank A, the guild would never allow an obvious loophole like that.

�gNo, that�fs exactly what I mean. You made a fair deal with him instead of trying to exploit his desperate
situation! Most of our ingredient suppliers constantly try to rip him off, I�fm really glad you�fre not like that after
all!�h (Lara A)

After all?

Did she honestly expect Kira to be a money-grubbing scro-

No, let�fs stop that train of thought right there.

I don�ft think I�fd enjoy seeing where it led to...

�gWell, I do sympathize with him a bit. I�fve also suffered from raw deals in the past.�h (Kira)

�gI can�ft say I completely trust that guy, though.�h (Ellie)

�gEllie!�h (Kira)

�gNo, it�fs okay. Thank you for being honest. And also for offering your name despite how you feel.�h (Lara A)

The waitress shows her gratitude by bowing slightly in my direction.

�gI don�ft mind, so it�fs okay.�h (Ellie)

Truthfully, I demanded it be my name.

Otherwise it would be the team leader�fs name.

More of a tradition rather than a law.

However, I hate the thought of having Kira�fs name tied to someone else!

I don�ft care if it�fs some temporary arrangement!

What�fs mine is mine!

�gStill, you should stop by the shop sometime! I�fll get you a few dishes on the house! Did you know the boss
came up with something called Mild Macaroons recently?�h (Lara A)

�gHmm?�h (Ellie)

�gThey don�ft have any special ingredients with quirky side-effects, they�fre simply little bundles of
deliciousness! He made them especially for people who just wanted a tasty snack, you see!�h (Lara A)

Wow, she gets really fired up whenever it comes to that guy.

It�fs not like I can�ft relate to her feelings of a maiden in love, but combined with her normal cheerfulness it�fs
almost a bit too much!

BEHOLD MORTAL! ZUBLOS HEREBY DECLARES THE LIVES OF THESE FILTHY

VERMIN FORFEIT!

Zublos had ripped off one of the fliers and is showing it to the guild clerk.

Several people in the guild turn their heads towards him in amazement when they hear that voice.

Must be newbies.

�gGoblin King subjugation commission is it? Understood, Mister Zublos.�h (Clerk)

Honestly, it feels a bit weird when the clerk isn�ft Clara.

But we came here just this morning so she hasn�ft had time to change locations yet.

Since Brand already delivered the reply from Ecebis, we really had no more reason to stick around the capital.

Not for the next few weeks anyway.

�gAlright, good luck on your hunt, Zublos. Drop by our house if you need something.�h (Kira)

Zublos nods his head and starts walking through the door, high-class robe and ominous looking greatsword in tow.

�gBoss! Wait up!�h (Lara A)

Lara chases after him in a rush.

�gNow then Ellie, should we find a job too?�h (Kira)

�gHopefully something that doesn�ft involve mucus this time...�h (Ellie)

Those giant toads we fought several days ago were absolutely disgusting!

Thankfully we had Picorio�fs ointments on hand.

Otherwise the smell would probably still cling to my armor.

Kira walks over to the request board and looks it over.

�gHmm, then how about that pack of feral Iron Golems? They don�ft have any bodily fluids at all.�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs fine, I guess�c�h (Ellie)

�gWhat is it Ellie? You�fre normally more spirited about adventurer jobs.�h (Kira)

�gIron Golems and I have bad compatibility.�h (Ellie)

We�fve fought them before, I have trouble damaging them thoroughly enough to disperse the mana holding them
together.

There doesn�ft seem to be anything else particularly worthwhile though.

Adventurers get really busy around this time of year to prepare for the next season.

So it�fs natural that any decent jobs get taken almost immediately.

Well, we�fre not much different.

We�fve taken on work almost every single day ever since we came back from Ecebis.

Not to mention all those meetings with the king, his ministers or the Grandmaster of the guild.

Then there�fs taking care of the new additions to our little household.

Even that Kelly who spent three days straight locked in her workshop recently called us workaholics.
Actually, surely we already have plenty of capital for a long time.

We should sit back and enjoy life while we still can!

�gKira, can we not work and just stay at home? I think we�fve earned a vacation for all our hard work lately...�h
(Ellie)

�g... You have a point. I still wonder if it�fll be okay in case that whole Ministry of Progress business flops and
we end up owing a lot of money we can�ft-�h (Kira)

�gKira. It�fll be okay. Everything�fs going more or less as planned. Even the news Brand brought us was
amazing.�h (Ellie)

Turns out Titansteel wasn�ft that rare, they were just unlucky.

The mage Kira sent them found an enormous deposit some 200 meters down from where that steel titan was
sleeping.

Since that�fs the only place to grow crops in the entire country, nobody dared to excavate under or around it.

So they never realized what they were standing on.

And now that both the nation and the mountain are exposed to the outside, they can outsource their ale production.

Meaning they can dig up as much Titansteel as they want.

�gOkay. Know what? You�fre right. I�fm not going to argue. Truth is I�fve been feeling really worn out lately
as well.�h (Kira)

�gI know.�h (Ellie)

I can pretty much see the fatigue on her face even now.

�gIt�fs settled then! Let�fs just finish our Autumn preparations and spend the rest of the year cuddling in
peace.�h (Kira)

�gYeah!�h (Ellie)

> Narrator POV <

And thus, on the first day of the twelfth month of the year 1437 SSSC, the majority of adventurer team [Black
Flame] went on a long, well-deserved break. The only exception was Zublos, who would continue to work hard
towards his ambition of owning a Vestiges of the Empire cake shop in every major city in Ferseit and beyond.

But before any of that could happen, Ellie and Kira went on a long shopping spree. Preserved foods, warm clothing,
several magic tools, dozens of Magic Stones and a few other supplies - just in case. The harsh Autumn season was
slowly yet steadily approaching. The way the seasons and weather worked in this world was something that
endlessly bothered Nano. It was much too different from every single planet in the artificial intelligence�fs
databanks.

To begin with, it was a pleasant surprise that the way time was measured was so similar to that of Old Terra, a
system that was used as a baseline for the Galactic Standard Time System once humanity spread across the cosmos.
A minute had 60 seconds, an hour had 60 minutes, a day had 24 hours and a week had 7 days. This so far had been
familiar and easy to grasp.
That, however, was where the familiarity ended. The seconds of this world were longer. A day was actually closer to
28 Galactic Standard Hours rather than 24. This caused quite a bit of trouble until Nano found out how to calibrate
its internal system clock. A rather underwhelming use of the highly advanced and highly illegal self-evolution
capability it possessed.

As for Ellie, it was the first time she was ever on the surface of a planet, so something like a day-night cycle was
completely foreign to her. That did not matter to her in the slightest, however. She just slept when Kira slept, ate
when Kira ate, and appreciated her in all the moments in-between.

Following the longer seconds, the next surprise came in how the year worked. It was 350 days long, separated into
exactly 50 weeks, which in turn formed 12 four-week months and a 13th half-month. What was special about this
wasn�ft the number of days in the year, but rather what the year signified.

A year on this world did not represent a revolution of the planet around its sun. Indeed, according to Nano�fs
calculations based on measuring the positions of the stars, a traditional year would take approximately 563 days and
22 hours. No, what signified a year on this world would be the completely inexplicable and absurd (from Nano�fs
point of view) seasons.

Ellie and Nano had arrived at the beginning of the third month of a Summer year - pleasantly warm weather with the
odd chilly evening and occasional rainy days. Since the planet did not appear to have its axis on a tilt, it was not a
surprise the climate would be this stable. Even extreme weather like typhoons, hail or tornadoes simply didn�ft
happen.

At least, not until the 12th month ended.

Starting at noon on the first day of the 13th month and lasting until noon of the first day of the next year, the world
would experience a two-week Autumn. It was a dark, depressing time where thick clouds would form and block out
the sun almost constantly. They would bring all sorts of nonsensical weather - upwards-falling rain, ice-cube shaped
hail, triangular tornadoes, gusts that were felt through stone walls and thick clouds of steam that rolled in like fog, to
name a few.

The capital city of Kotero had even suffered a tsunami of oddly red and sweet-tasting water 14 years ago. There was
a rumor that King Frederick Ferseit was laughing like a madman as he watched the impossibly tall wall of crimson
liquid approach from the horizon. The city survived unscathed thanks to its defensive barrier, but the surrounding
farmlands were devastated and the soil had become infertile. It took hundreds of Elven mages several months of
work to repair the damage using their Life Magic.

This situation looked as if Mother Nature kept holding it in for twelve months only to boil over and go completely
mental for the remaining two weeks.

That was not the only side-effect of the Autumn season, however. During those turbulent two weeks, mana would
not recover and monsters would go into hibernation. This meant, like it or not, adventurers simply had no work
during this time. Not that they would dare leave their homes in the first place. Long-distance travel in these
conditions was a fool�fs errand.

The common practice for getting through the 13th month was simple. First you stock up on food, water and other
necessities. Then you go home, bundle up, have a pint and wait for this whole wacky weather thing to blow over.

Then, at exactly noon on the first day of the next year, Autumn would disappear like a bad dream and the world
would enter a Winter year. For the next 12 months, the world would have cold weather with the occasional snowfall.
Some days would be warmer or chillier than others, but overall it was important to bundle up when going outside.
Then, at the 13th month of a Winter year, Spring would come. Pretty much identical to Autumn, only the days
would be getting gradually warmer rather than colder, and a Summer year would begin once more.
And how exactly would such strange phenomenon happen? Titans, that�fs how. It is said that they were the ones
who made the world. But Nano surmised whoever made the sun did a very poor job of it. It didn�ft seem like it
would explode, but it was definitely defective.

Kira had explained that, during a Winter year, the normally yellow Enuri would become blue and its warmth would
noticeably weaken. The drop in temperature made sense to her since ice was usually blue or white. As for the
completely absurd notion that a star would change its color every 350 days like clockwork, she simply didn�ft have
any reason to question it.

Kira wouldn�ft know this, but a blue star would actually be many times hotter than a yellow one. Indeed, if a
genuine blue star suddenly replaced the current one, this planet would be reduced to ashes within seconds.

Ultimately, in order to protect its logic circuit, Nano had decided very early on it was best just to assume magic was
responsible for everything that didn�ft make sense and to avoid analyzing anomalies too deeply until there was
more information.

�eIt�fs your loss if you mind it�f was a serious matter for an AI like Nano. They�fre notoriously bad with
paradoxes.

As for Ellie, she was simply looking forward to playing in the snow with her family.

SSSC stands for Since Somebody Started Counting.

Chapter 110 - New Year's Resolutions are usually closer to New Year's
Self-delusions - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gGood morning Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

*Mmmmnnnnwah*

�gFufufu, how�fs the first kiss of the new year?�h (Kira)

I snuggle up even closer against Kira.

�gEspecially delicious!�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm glad ~?!�h (Kira)

That�fs right, today is officially the first day of the new year.

It finally sounds like it�fs calmed down outside.

The last two weeks were pretty intense.

Just like Kira said all sorts of crazy weather happened.

The worst part was the hail that started falling on day four, it rattled incessantly against the tower for three full days.

Our yard was filled to the brim with ice cubes!

Then the sun showed up for about half an hour.

It painted the slowly melting ice in a dazzling green, it was really beautiful!

Ah that�fs right, apparently the sun changes color gradually.

Kira neglected to mention that part when we first talked about it.

Since we saw it in the middle of the season, it was a bright green.

I�fve never seen a green sun before, it was quite mysterious!

However, Nano was not as impressed.

The all-important preparations were not in place, you see.

So in the end, Nano had to be rebooted.

Other than that, we spent a peaceful two weeks holed up inside the tower.

Ariel had to share a room with Kelly, though.

That little bungalow guest house outside was too exposed for the extreme weather.

And finally, the all important day is here!

New year?

Season change?

Ministry of Progress?

Those are unimportant details!

�gHappy birthday, Kira!�h (Ellie)

That�fs right, today�fs the day we celebrate the birth of the greatest and most wonderful person in the universe!

�gThank you so much Ellie ~?! It means so much to me that I can share it with you ~?!�h (Kira)

Well, she wasn�ft actually born on this day.

Probably.

She has no idea what her actual birth date is since she was adopted at a very young age.

The orphanage had no idea either.

Therefore, Esteemed Father chose to celebrate it on the first day of the first month.

Seemed to be related to some religious thing.

As for me, I was in a different situation.

Nano knows my actual birth date, but it�fs meaningless in this world.

So me and Kira decided we would celebrate my own birthday on the day I was reborn.

The second day of the third month - the day we met.

�gNow then, I wonder what sort of present you�fll give me ~?!�h (Kira)

Kira is playing coy.

She knows full well what her present is.

I slide under the covers so I can give it to her!

�gHnnn�c Mmmm�c A very slippery present, is it? Haahn!�h (Kira)

It�fs my complete, undivided attention!

We�fre going to spend most of today with just the two of us!

Just like the day after we shared our first time!

We already warned everyone in the house not to disturb us until the evening.

That�fs when we�fll have a big birthday party to celebrate with everyone else.

But until then, we will thoroughly enjoy some quiet time together.

�gHyaahaahn!�h (Kira)

Well, figuratively quiet ~?!

***

�gHappy birthday Kiressara!�h (Everyone)

*Clap clap clap clap*

We were greeted with a chorus of congratulations and cheering when we entered the room.

Kira is blushing fiercely at the sincere welcome as we walk over to our seats.

We lost track of time so she�fs a bit late to our her own birthday party.

We�fre holding it at our official residence in Runetap.

The invitations were sent out well in advance.

The preceding Autumn season puts everything in gridlock, so planning ahead is important!

Kira takes the seat of honor at the head of the long table and our guests line up in front of her.

In Ferseit, it�fs traditional to present their gifts and well-wishes before the party goes into full swing.

Mine is obviously first.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gOnce again, Happy birthday Kira. Thank you for being born.�h (Ellie)

I hold out my present to her.

It�fs not wrapped though.

Apparently it�fs in poor taste to actually giftwrap things.

�gEllie? But I thought�c�h (Kira)

�gThis and that are completely different.�h (Ellie)

Earlier, she gave back as much as she received, so I don�ft feel like it was enough.

Besides, it�fs something I really wanted to give her.

She curiously accepts my second present.

�gOh, it�fs heavier than it looks. What is it?�h (Kira)

�gThis, is a PLR-45 Sidearm. This weapon was one of my earliest and most reliable allies!�h (Ellie)

Nano managed to recreate it almost perfectly using parts from a few PLR-76 Rifles!

The dull blue polymer surface is comfortable to the touch while the sleek contours give it a certain charm.

The comfortable grip and hefty weight fill you with confidence!

I really should have thought of this sooner!

Well, the cartridges we have on hand are limited, but it�fs extremely reliable in a pinch!

It�fs obviously not loaded right now though.

Gun safety is important.

�gI�fll show you how it works later!�h (Ellie)

�gOkay! I�fm looking forward to it! Thank you, Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

She gives me a small hug and gently puts it away behind her.

Satisfied with the result, I take my own seat right next to her.

Next is Esteemed Father.

�gAh, would you look at all these people! And to think just last year it was only the two of us!�h (Ernest)

�gDad�c�h (Kira)

�gEnough about that! Here you go, sweetie!�h (Ernest)

He hands her a round golden brooch with an intricate design.

I�fm guessing it�fs something religious again.

�gThanks, dad.�h (Kira)

She gratefully accepts it and pins it on her clothes with a smile.

Yup, it looks good.

Esteemed Father makes way for the next two adorable gift-givers.

�gHere Mom! This is from the two of us!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! We made it ourselves!�h (Sophie)

It�fs a simplistic wooden cart with a strange shape.

Closer to a small box with wheels, really.

However, a disproportionately large wooden horse is pulling it and five wooden pegs stick out of it like passengers.

The one at the very front is painted a pale orange.

The two behind it are placed right next to each other, with one painted blue while the other is red.

And behind those are two noticeably shorter pegs painted brown.

It looks like our little traveling party back when Sophie and Lara first entered our lives.

�gOhhhh! How precious!�h (Kira)

Kira lets out a small squeal of delight.

�gThank you, girls! I love it!�h (Kira)

She bends over and gives them a quick hug while kissing each of their foreheads.

�gHehehe! Great success!�h (Lara)

�gMommy that tickles!�h (Sophie)

Giggling happily, they move back to their seats.

The mini-cart is also put away gently while Kelly steps up.

�gHere ya go, Red! This is something me and Nano made!�h (Kelly)

She holds up a tiny, ornate, silver-colored box.

It�fs a size that fits perfectly in one palm.

The slight green tint probably means it�fs made of Mithril.

�gOh, this looks pretty! What is it?�h (Kira)

�gPour a bit of your mana into it!�h (Kelly)

�g... It won�ft explode, right?�h (Kira)

�gIt won�ft explode. I stake my life and my mug on that promise.�h (Kelly)

Kira shoots her a distrusting look before focusing back to the little box.

{It�fs a music box. An innocent little creation courtesy of mine and Ellie�fs old world. With a magic touch of
Kelly�fs inspiration, of course.}

�gThat last bit doesn�ft really put me at ease�c Alright. Just this once!�h (Kira)

*Click*

The little box opens on its own.

*Ting, ting tong, tin-tin-tong-tong-ting. Ting. Ting. Ting-tong.*

Refreshing, quiet chimes are heard while a tiny drum spins around inside.

*Click*

And then closes itself back up.

�gWow!�h (Kira)

Looks like Kira is amazed.

This is my first time seeing something like this as well!

�gIt actually didn�ft explode! Thank you so much Kelly! You too Nano!�h (Kira)

Kelly nods with a self-satisfied face and gives way to the next person.

Ah, I see.

All she really wanted from Kelly and Nano was [A Thing That Did Not Blow Up].

{Ellie. Don�ft forget to teach Kira about regularly cleaning and maintaining that PLR-45.}

�c

Oops.

I�fm really glad Nano can broadcast to individual earpieces right now.

�gRight.�h (Ellie)

I whisper gently under my breath.

�gHmm? Did you say something Ellie?�h (Kira)

Kira tilts her head slightly at my out-of place word.

�gNano was just reminding me about something minor.�h (Ellie)

She narrows her eyes at me.

Nothing escapes her notice as usual!

�gEllie�c is there something you-�h (Kira)

�gMistress!�h (Ariel)

Ariel came to my rescue!

�gPlease accept this one�fs humble offering. This one sincerely wishes Mistress would use this in good health!
�h (Ariel)

The impact of her sudden appearance and questionable present seems to have derailed Kira�fs thought process!
Thank goodness!

�g... Thanks. Off you go now. Far away from me.�h (Kira)

Kira gingerly hides away the leather whip while shooing Ariel away with a disgusted look.

Ariel gives a small smile before stepping to the side.

The less said about that, the better.

Olboun is next.

Apparently when he heard Kira was having a big party, he insisted he be invited.

He�fs just a bit lonely since he only got to arrest Kira once during the 12th month.

A merchant had sold us some not-so-well-preserved meat.

When Kira demanded a refund, he refused, things got a bit violent and his stall mysteriously caught fire.

The smell of burning rotten meat then wafted from it and caused quite a big disturbance.

I wasn�ft able to �eEnforcer�f the situation...

�gHere ya go! A special present from everyone back at the south gate! To our favorite customer, happy birthday!
�h (Olboun)

He hands her a small dagger in a fancy-looking leather sheath.

The wooden handle is beautifully engraved with floral patterns and a single red gem is embedded in the guard.

�gYer gonna be a big shot in the capital soon, right? Every big shot needs a fancy letter opener!�h (Olboun)

Kira curiously unsheathes it and reveals the sleek blade.

�gWow. It�fs beautiful, thank you very much, Olboun!�h (Kira)

�gHope it serves you well!�h (Olboun)

�gYes�c sure�c�h (Kira)

Kira�fs face is cramping up slightly as Olboun leaves with a wide grin.

Theoretically speaking, it can be used to open letters.

Although it looks sharp enough to cut open a whole lot of other things just as easily.

Kira carefully sheathes the Letterminator 4000 (tentative name) and puts it away with the rest of the gifts.

And last but not least, mister Picorio.

�gHappy birthday, Mrs Quasse. I wish you good health and fortune. Here, a token of our continued friendship.�h
(Picorio)
He hands over a 30-centimeter tall wooden statue.

It�fs a figure of Kira and me casually standing side by side while linking hands.

This has a lot of details and looks to be molded with magic rather than carved.

Not to mention the expertly painted and vivid colors.

Very lifelike!

Kira�fs slightly cramped expression immediately softens.

�gThank you Picorio. It�fs quite lovely.�h (Kira)

�gMy pleasure, Mrs Quasse.�h (Picorio)

He bows slightly and goes back to his seat.

Since the gifting phase is over, Kira stands up and addresses everyone present.

�gThank you all for coming here. Your continued support, friendship and love really makes me look forward to
each day with a smile. Now then, let�fs properly get this party started!�h (Kira)

Nano�fs butler-like androids start serving food and drink to everyone.

�gAlright! Now that the boring stuff is over, let�fs get pissed!�h (Kelly)

�gI won�ft lose this time!�h (Olboun)

�gHah! In your dreams, baldie!�h (Kelly)

Looks like Olboun and Kelly immediately start drinking.

The kids are happily chatting with Picorio about pleasant smelling flowers that grow during the Winter year.

Ariel is�c looking longingly at that whip.

I�fm really glad I can�ft hear her thoughts right now.

As for Kira, she�fs just sitting there, eating her vegetable stir-fry and enjoying the noisy atmosphere.

She really must have wished for a lively birthday like this.

Oddly enough, it feels like something�fs not quite right.

Something out of place, I can�ft quite put my finger on it�c

Oh!

That�fs it!

How careless of me!

�gKira, can I see that Lettermin- I mean, letter opener real quick?�h (Ellie)

�gSure, here you go!�h (Kira)

I take Olboun�fs gift from her and unsheathe the beautiful blade.

Yep, this will do nicely!

*SLICE*

I suddenly jumped and slashed at my own seat while doing a front somersault.

The whole party grinds to halt and stares at me.

�gSCREEEEeeeeee�c�h (High-pitched voice)

It writhes slightly while letting out a fading screech.

�gMust have snuck in during the Autumn.�h (Ellie)

They all nod understandingly and resolutely stab their own chairs with their dinnerware.

Good, looks like this was the only one.

Those sentient chairs are a nuisance.

Chapter 111 - Failure is but the first step on the road to success - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gYou�fre sure you�fre ready for this?�h (Ellie)

�gKwaa!�h (Puff)

I�fm a bit sad he doesn�ft let out that adorable chirp-like voice anymore.

Well, he�fs much bigger than he was two months ago.

Right after he was hatched, he would barely go up to my waist when standing normally.

Now our eye levels almost match!

So the voice changing was to be expected as some point.

�gDo your best Fluffles!�h (Sophie)

�gYeah don�ft lose to your bro!�h (Lara)

�gKwuu!�h (Fluffles)

Fluffles is more or less the same, though.

However, I�fve noticed a distinct difference between the two after they've matured a bit.

Puff is starting to give off a slightly more intimidating air, a presence that demands your respect.

Whereas Fluffles leaves behind an impression like a reliable companion who always has your back.

But the problem is they keep growing quite fast.

When they�fre fully grown they�fll tower over regular people and won�ft fit through doors anymore.

Nano wants to build them a sort of overlook on the side of the tower.

A bird-house for gryphons basically, only with doors connecting it to the inside so people can enter too.

But they need to learn to fly first, which is precisely why we�fre here!

�gAlright you two! Wings out!�h (Ellie)

They both spread their wings and give them a few slow, stretching movements.

Compared to the rest of them, their wings have grown the most.

The difference is so drastic, they�fre likely not used to them yet.

Like other monsters, they were in hibernation until yesterday, so they have two weeks worth of growth on them.
Oddly enough, they didn�ft eat a single thing during this time yet kept growing at the same rate.

But on the other hand they ate loads before and after the hibernation, so it seems to have been alright.

�gDo they feel stiff or in pain or something?�h (Ellie)

They both shake their heads.

Seems like their wings have no abnormalities.

Therefore, they should be strong enough to attempt flight!

In theory, anyway.

That�fs why I�fm keeping an eye on them, I can catch them with Telekinesis should something happen.

Let's double check to be sure!

�gThen flap those wings! Flap them with all your might!�h (Ellie)

I give them a bit of encouragement!

*FWOOOH FWOOOH FWOOOH*

Hmm, hmm, hmm.

Those are some reassuring sounds and formidable winds form around them.

It reminds me a lot of how Brand�fs gryphon, Shull, would take off.

However, what happens next is crucial.

�gVery good! I�fm proud you�fve come this far! Now is the moment of truth!�h (Ellie)

The two steel themselves and turn around, facing the edge of the enchanted land and the boundless sky beyond.

We�fve stopped the tower in mid-air, just in case the motion interferes.

We still have a fair amount of distance to cover before we�fre back at the capital, so we should get this over with!

�gYou sure they�fre going to be okay, Mommy?�h (Sophie)

�gAren�ft we too high up?�h (Lara)

You can see the odd cloud beneath us.

This is the normal height we fly at though.

�gIt�fll be fine, sweetie. Trust in those two.�h (Kira)

�gAye, them�fs some mighty fine gryphons. Even Brand said so during his visit.�h (Kelly)

�gThis one is ready to assist Puff and Fluffles should Mistress require it. So please be at ease, children.�h (Ariel)
That�fs right, just like with baby birds, gryphons must learn to fly the hard way!

�gThen, I will be going first!�h (Ellie)

I take a run up and leap from the edge!

Puff and Fluffles follow me over the edge without hesitating.

Contorting and twisting my body, I control my descent so that I can watch over them from below.

Following my lead, the gryphons spread out their wings, catching the air and guiding their own falls.

�g ------- [Flight]�h (Ellie)

Invoking the spell, I gently pull up so that I�fm no longer freefalling.

I still can�ft control it too well at this sort of speed though!

Gravity Magic is hard without sharing a brain with Kira!

In the next moment, I spot two shadows in the sky above me!

They�fve successfully started gliding!

All that�fs left now is-

*FLAP FLAP FLAP*

-to turn the glide into full on flight!

�gKWAAAAA KWAAA!�h (Puff and Fluffles)

They let out cries of joy as they experience flight under their own power for the first time!

I can relate, the first time I managed to use flying magic successfully was unforgettable!

However, I�fm still moving around in an awkward spiral�c

Okay, let�fs stop in mid-air and enjoy the sight!

They keep gaining altitude and diving, doing long glides and otherwise exploring this new third dimension of
movement.

�gEllie!�h (Kira)

�gWow! Look at them go!�h (Sophie)

�gUuuu�c Mom I don�ft like this!�h (Lara)

Ah, Kira descends slowly from above while holding onto Lara and Sophie!

Just like an angel carrying smaller angels!

�gYou said you wanted to see, though?�h (Kira)

�gYes, but it�fs too high after all! I�fm sorry!�h (Lara)

�gCome here Sophie, it�fs okay.�h (Ellie)

I get closer to Kira and take the almost crying Lara in my arms.

�gDon�ft look down. Just focus on your fluffy friend in the sky, okay?�h (Ellie)

I carefully brush her hair out of her face and point up towards Fluffles.

�g...�h (Lara)

Sophie screws up her courage and follows the brown gryphon with her brown eyes.

As if sensing a chance to show off, Fluffles did a big backwards loop into a spiraling nosedive before gently leveling
out!

�gWoah!�h (Lara)

Sophie�fs worries were completely forgotten thanks to the majesty of a gryphon in flight.

Fluffles, good job!

�gIt would seem gryphons are natural flyers as expected. This one is jealous.�h (Ariel)

�gHmm? But miss Ariel can fly too, right?�h (Sophie)

Well yeah, obviously.

She�fs doing it right now!

�gThis one had to spend many years of practice to pull off stunts like that. Yet the gryphon children accomplished
such feats within minutes of finding their wings. It is�c a difficult thing to accept.�h (Ariel)

�gSay, where did Puff go?�h (Kira)

�gHmm? He�fs up there, he�fs trying to copy Fluffles.�h (Ellie)

I direct Kira�fs eyesight toward him.

He was just coming out of his loop and into the nosedive!

After gaining some speed, he spreads his wings and-

�gKRAAHA!�h (Puff)

-keeps falling with a yell of pain!

�gPufff!�h (Sophie and Lara)

�gKira! Here, hang onto Sophie!�h (Ellie)

�gI got her! Go!�h (Kira)

After spending a few moments to make sure she has a firm hold on Sophie, I dive after Puff!

Accelerating myself downwards, I catch up to him with plenty of time to spare!

This is why I insisted that we be high up before we started this lesson!

Using Telekinesis while keeping myself afloat with magic, I gently slow both our speeds.

�gKraa! Kraa! Kraa!�h (Puff)

He�fs making painful noises and his left wing doesn�ft seem to be moving properly.

�gAre you hurt boy? It�fs not broken is it?�h (Ellie)

I ask him while bringing us to a standstill in the air.

He looks at me with those blue eyes and shakes his head.

�gSprained?�h (Ellie)

This time it was a nod.

I see, he probably caught too much air in it earlier and got injured from the sudden strain.

�gIt�fs okay Kira. I got him, just a sprain.�h (Ellie)

{�gThank goodness it�fs not serious.�h} (Kira)

{�gWhat�fs going on down there? Is everyone alright?�h} (Kelly)

�gSmall injury, we�fre fine. We�fre coming back up.�h (Ellie)

I start raising both our altitudes.

�gKuh! Ariel come down here and give me a hand! Puff�fs heavier than he looks!�h (Ellie)

{�gAt once, Mistress!�h} (Ariel)

{�gAnd that�fs why I�fm standing right here. Firmly on the ground!�h}

{�gYou�fre above the clouds, Kelly.�h} (Kira)

{�gNope. It�fs more accurate to say the clouds are beneath me!�h} (Kelly)

{�gCould it be�c you�fre scared of heights?�h} (Kira)

{�g... A little.�h} (Kelly)

Really?

Even though she launches herself upwards with Scrappy all the time?
Well no, the difference in height is perhaps incomparable.

�gKuuu�c.�h (Puff)

Puff lets out a low cry while hanging his head, seems he�fs ashamed.

�gDo not run away from your failure! Learn from it instead!�h (Ellie)

I firmly scold him before he has a chance to get depressed.

�gToday you got cocky. Your conceit is what got you into this mess and I had to pull you out of it! But tomorrow I
may not be around to make things right! Remember this!�h (Ellie)

Good, seems the light of determination is back in his eyes.

Let�fs make sure Fluffles learns from this event as well!

Getting full of yourself is a sure way to self-destruction!

Well, Ariel is coming to make sure I don�ft drop him, so we should be safely back in the tower before long.

We do have a tournament to get to, after all!

Since our team is one of the competitors, there�fs no way we can afford to miss it!

***

�gGood day, ladies and gentlemen and thank you for joining us on the fourth day of the Grand Martial Arts
Tournament!�h (Announcer)

He�fs loud as usual.

�gHURAAHHH!�h (Crowd)

The crowd isn�ft losing out either.

The first three days were the preliminaries, they were pretty messy.

The arena organizers brought in twenty or so 10-by-10 square platforms to act as mini-arenas.

All the participants fought each other in a one-on-one best-of-three format with an official overlooking them.

Since there were 20 duels going on simultaneously, it was impossible to keep track of everything.

There were over 300 entries at first, but after three whole days of duels, they got reduced to 8 quarter-finalists.

Perhaps it�fs to be expected, but there were many people who were clearly out of their league.

This is supposed to be a gathering of the strongest in the country, you know?

So the ring-out rule helped weed out a lot of the fodder quickly.

Ah, calling them fodder is probably rude, but it�fs hard to describe them otherwise.
Some fights still lasted for up to 20 minutes, so the crowd still found something worthwhile to watch.

On the other hand, there were quite a few fights that were overwhelmingly one-sided and ended in seconds.

Pretty much all the quarter finalists had fights like that, but Zublos's fights stood out a bit.

A punch to the face and they would be blown out of bounds whether they blocked it or not.

The difference in strength, speed and weight was outrageous.

It makes sense that he was able to become a fully fledged Rank B in almost no time at all with a body like that!

Plus, it seems the organizers made sure to spread the promising fighters out so they can save the best for last.

The so-called 'seeded' contestants.

Ah, also those participants weren�ft allowed to use their regular equipment or any magic.

It�fs supposed to be a fight based on skill and strength, so it makes sense.

The arena provided standard-issue swords and armor for those wishing to participate.

Well, Zublos just wore his standard robe for some reason.

It�fs technically clothes and not armor, so it seems to be okay.

There are some familiar faces besides him among the quarter-finalists, though.

�gAllow me to introduce to you the fighters who have made it this far! Coming up first is last year�fs Champion
and Rank A adventurer! Please welcome Gaar Lieron!�h (Announcer)

Oh, right, Flatface had a name like that, huh?

He raises a greathammer and the crowd cheers in response.

So he�fs a returning champion, hm?

Whenever we met, he never got a good chance to show off.

I mean, that time Kelly pinned him down she had Scrappy�fs help so he never stood a chance.

And our last meeting I got close and got him in a hold before he could even respond

After watching some of his preliminaries, I have to admit he certainly has some skill.

Now he just needs to fix his head and he�fd be a splendid adventurer!

�gUp next, also a Rank A adventurer and user of the fabled Three-Sword Style! Put your hands together for the
fabled [Sword Master] - Roel Denka!�h (Announcer)

The crowd cheers once again for the next participant - a black-furred cat-folk adventurer like Flatface.

Unlike the muscle-bound Flatface, Roel is a lot leaner, relying more on speed than raw power.
He uses a short sword in each hand a third one with his tail.

I�fm jealous, my own tail is pretty dexterous but I don�ft think I can move it the way he can!

As for his title, [Sword Master] is apparently on the same level as a [Sage].

The guild officially recognizes him as the best swordsman in their ranks.

�gThird on our list is a mercenary! Ruthless and cunning, his skill with a spear cannot be denied! Give a round of
applause for the mysterious Rend!�h (Announcer)

A guy who wears a red cowl and scarf, completely covering his face and head steps forward.

The crowd�fs cheering is a bit more subdued, he�fs one of those �edark horse�f type people that appear out of
nowhere.

�gFourth! A special treat! Hailing from the previously closed and secretive land of Ecebis! He has come to show us
what it�fs like to face the iron wall of the Legion! Major Brand Darkhand!�h (Announcer)

Yep, Brand is here after all.

His eyes shone fiercely when he learned about this tournament last year.

There's probably some official political reason for his participation, but he clearly wanted to be here.

He walks forward receives a rather unique cheer from an armor-clad section of the crowd.

*THUMP THUMP THUMP*

�gHUUAAAAAAH!�h (Legionaires)

A Legion troop that was carrying the Blast Powder over the land route arrived a few days before Autumn rolled
around.

There�fs only 300 or so of them, but they�fre somehow the loudest.

�gIn stark contrast to our previous contestant, making a rare appearance is a mountain of a man! A mountain giant,
to be precise! Please join me in welcoming Jake Ondonar!�h (Announcer)

The over-three-meter tall slab of muscle bowed to the cheering crowd.

That one seems to be the same race as the Grandmaster, but they don�ft appear to be related.

He uses a gigantic staff as a bludgeoning weapon, he�fs actually quite nimble at handling it.

Well, the sheer size meant the out-of-bounds rule in the preliminaries made him unbeatable.

Like with Zublos, one blow settled all of his matches.

The finals don�ft have such a rule though, so we�fll get to see both of their real power!

Speaking of which.

�gOur next contestant is someone whose mere presence inspires fear in the hearts of others! Or so you would
think! A gentle giant whose nature belies his appearance, this adventurer wishes to say just one thing!�h
(Announcer)

ALL SHALL KNEEL BEFORE THE TERRIBLE MIGHT OF ZUBLOS

He shouted louder than usual, even the announcer seems to find it painful.

A small group of people led by that waitress is giving their all to cheer him on.

Looks like his entire staff turned up to support him and he�fs putting some actual spirit into his voice for once in
response.

Zublos seems awfully pleased with himself so maybe it�fs enough for him.

Well, either that or he remembered something unpleasant, his face is hard to read�c

�gOur audience would be wise not to underestimate this next contestant! His age may be showing, but his skill and
experience more than make up for it! Hailing from the Free City of Kikkolto to the East, the undisputed [Fist Saint]
- Lu Po!�h (Announcer)

A little old bald man with a white beard and mustache takes a respectful bow while the crowd cheers him on.

Even for a foreigner he�fs well known.

Apparently he�fs the owner of a huge Dojo over in the City States Alliance and has over 1000 disciples!

An actual old man martial artist!

All he needs is a pair of sunglasses and a turtle shell on his back and he�fd be perfect!

�gAnd now, the moment I�fm sure many of you were waiting for! An adventurer that needs no introduction! An
unstoppable force capable of taking down an Elder Dragon in mid flight! Please join me in welcoming back Ellie!
Mil! Quasse!�h (Announcer)

�gEEEHEEELIE! EEEHEEELIE! EEEHEEELIE!�h (Crowd)

Yes, I�fm competing, got a problem with that?

I hope I'm not rushing the story a bit too much. The last act felt like a bunch of filler so I wanted to get to the juicy
bits of this one a bit faster than normal...
Chapter 112 - Taking responsibility is never necessary. It's simply the
right thing to do - Binary Soul | Royal Road

Author's note:
The last few chapters I've been making quite a lot of mistakes. Both story and grammar wise. I apologize sincerely
for that. Thanks to everyone who pointed them out, I will strive to do better in the future!

> Ellie PoV <

I glared at Zublos while the crowd was cheering.

He noticed my accusing stare and hung his head in shame.

His so-called disciple period may be over, but he has much to answer for.

The agreement was that he do all his work solo, but we would still lend a hand should he require it.

Me and Kira decided that since he obviously had some ability it would be okay for him if it was simply fighting
monsters.

But then Zublos failed a job.

It was some escort mission for a merchant and his goods headed north out of Runetap.

Apparently the client worked for some big-time noble and paid for a Rank B escort commission.

Which Zublos took by himself.

He assumed it would be okay since he�fd done similar work before going through the Eagle Forest road we made.

But the degree in difficulty between Rank B and Rank C commissions isn�ft just the letter!

They got assaulted by a group of monsters and Zublos had to fend them off by himself.

However, no matter how fast or strong he is, he cannot be in two places at once.

While he did place priority on defending the merchant�fs life, the foodstuffs he was transporting were left exposed.

The cargo was destroyed and the commission ended in a failure.

This sort of thing is pretty much exactly what we warned him about.

It should be common sense that protecting two targets at once is impossible for one person.

Zublos promised that, should the need arise, he would ask for backup.

One could argue how it was the client or the guild at fault for accepting a single adventurer as a guard.

However, the responsibility ultimately lies with Kira and me.

First, we had to reimburse the client on behalf of the team.

Then, we got chewed out and received a warning from the guild�fs Branch Manager in Runetap.

And finally we got slapped with a hefty fine for letting a disciple take on a job above his station.

But the damage went beyond mere money or a lecture from an angry elf.

Zublos�fs lack of judgement betrayed our trust and ruined [Black Flame]�fs spotless record.

It was our team�fs first failed job, Kira was more upset than I though she would be!

To begin with, all this could have been avoided if he just agreed to Kira�fs proposal.

Initially she offered to buy the land on his behalf, but she would have to remain the owner.

In return, Zublos would pay rent and teach that course Kira wanted from him.

He refused saying he wanted to have full control over his stores, including the land they�fre built on.

And that's when we revealed the information concerning the Tournament and made that initial agreement.

We could point fingers and deflect responsibility all we want, but the undeniable fact was, knowingly or not, Zublos
broke his promise.

So we all sat down and had a heated back-and-forth discussion that somehow ended in the current situation.

Kira would stick to her word and allow Zublos to keep using our team�fs name to climb up to Rank B.

However, I would also compete in the tournament with the sole purpose of getting in his way.

If he managed to win, we would accept his apology and forgive him.

If he lost, either to me or somebody else, then he would need to try again next year or find another way.

Now, the tournament has a bunch of rules regarding the use of magic and equipment.

The main goal is to make sure nobody has an unfair advantage.

The secondary goal is to limit casualties.

If I seriously slashed at someone with my regular sword, I�fd probably cut through them like butter.

Its sharpness and weight are no joke.

Which is why I�fm almost grateful for the steel sword they gave me.

With a normal sword, a serious slash from me would still cause injuries, but would be far less fatal.

Then the medics would actually have time to react and heal the other person before the worst happens.

Since my goal is thoroughly educate that guy, it would be a shame if it ended too soon!
Not to mention all the rest of these people look really strong, so I think I can afford to cut loose like I do against
monsters.

Well, something tells me all of the quarterfinalists are monsters in their own right.

I just wish they�fd stop staring at me like that.

�gEEEHEELIE! EEEHEELIE! EEEHEELIE!�h (Crowd)

It�fs not my fault the crowd refuses to stop chanting, you know?

***

The way the lots were drawn, I wouldn�ft face Zublos until the finals.

Assuming we both make it that far.

Zublos aside, these people have spent many years honing their skills.

My own fighting style relies a lot on surprise attacks and misdirection.

Like with the Iron Golems, I have bad compatibility in a straight up fight.

Still, I�fve decided to seal my Telekinesis and Telepathy for the duration of the tournament.

While not technically against the rules, they�fre obviously against the spirit of the rules.

Normally I would use every dirty trick in the book to win, but this is honorable combat, not a desperate fight for
survival.

How can I properly educate my disciple about responsibility and honesty if I do things like abusing loopholes just to
win!?

I agreed to follow the rules, so even if I�fm knocked out, it would be because my own strength was lacking.

I still had overwhelming victories in the preliminaries though.

Seven out of my eight opponents surrendered after the first round.

I instantly got inside their guard and subdued them with CQC before they could do anything.

Seeing the huge gap, they all wisely gave up to spare themselves the pain.

The last guy was different though.

He was one of Brand�fs people - a legionnaire using tournament-provided plate armor, greatshield and one-handed
axe.

Those legionnaires are good!

He successfully warded off my first attack and kept parrying my sword swings!

Well, he had no room to strike back so I just kept attacking until he got pushed out of bounds.
In the end it was still a one-sided victory, huh?

�gMrs Quasse! Are your preparations ready?�h (Arena staff)

I double check the regulation gear I was provided with.

The light half-plate armor was firmly strapped to my chest and legs.

Not as good as my regular gear, but it still covers the vitals without limiting movement.

I�fve also replaced my grappling hooks with steel bracers.

My gloves were apparently within regulation though, which is good.

The Durasteel-reinforced knuckles means I can punch at plate armor without worrying!

The head and face are exposed, but a helmet would limit my field of vision.

And finally, a short sword to replace my Tritanium blade.

�gYes! I�fm all set!�h (Ellie)

�gGood, then follow me, your fight is about to start!�h (Arena staff)

I follow the staff member as he guides me from the dressing room to the arena floor.

We stop at the gates leading to the outside and he gives some sort of signal to the announcer.

�gAnd now for the first fight of the day - Roel Denka the [Sword Master] vs Ellie mil Quasse the [Dragonbane]!
�h (Announcer)

It seems my opponent is also ready, so we both walk out from opposite sides of the arena.

The crowd erupts in cheers while clearly looking forward to it.

Well, the whole point of this tournament is to reinvigorate the populace after the depressing 13th month, so this
much is expected.

I wave to the rest of my family watching over me from the VIP box.

I asked Nano to cut off all communication unless it�fs an emergency - I need to focus on my opponent.

Speaking of that guy, as expected he�fs focused more on speed than power.
O
Lightly armored much like myself and sporting a longsword in each hand while his tail is coiled firmly around a
rapier.

It may seem a bit silly, but his stance has no blind spots and that tail stabs at you from irregular angles like a
scorpion.

We keep walking under the cheering crowd until we stand right in front of each other.

An arena official acting as a referee walks up and starts explaining.

�gTo begin with - no killing blows. If your opponent dies for any reason, you will be disqualified and possibly
arrested." (Referee)

This is a gathering of the nation�fs strongest fighters, so it�fs not like any of us would die that easily.

But if that were to happen, the world would surely lose a talented individual.

�hYour aim is to incapacitate your opponent or force them to surrender. You may use the whole arena. If the fight
lasts more than 30 minutes, you will enter sudden death and the victor will be decided by the next blow. Other than
magic, anything else goes. Do you both understand?�h (Referee)

�gYes.�h (Ellie)

�gUnderstood.�h (Roel)

�gVery well. Go to your positions and assume your stances.�h (Referee)

We nod walk back to the marked spots in the sandy ground, some 20 meters apart.

Roel brandishes his weapons and assumes a stance standing sideways, with his left shoulder forward.

All three of his swords point intently at me.

As for me, my shortsword is still sheathed behind my waist.

Holding it right now would only get in my way, you see.

I go down on all fours, tilting my body forward while raising my butt slightly.

�gIt would appear both fighters are ready! Roel has assumed an intimidating stance while Ellie is taking an odd
crouching position on all fours!�h (Announcer)

Play-by-play, huh?

Come to think of it, the announcer is much louder than normal.

Normally he just shouts, but it seems this time he�fs going to use a voice-amplification magic tool.

�gAnd now for the moment you�fve all been waiting for! Contestants!�h (Announcer)

I re-focus my attention and coil my legs and elbows like a spring.

�gLet the match�c Begin!�h (Announcer)

I launch myself forward at once!

Those weapons of his are no use if I manage to slip inside his guard and pin him down.

But this distance needs to disappear immediately.

Looks like he�fs seen through my intentions, he lowers his stance and prepares to meet my charge head on!

{Ellie! Kira collapsed! She�fs not waking up!}

�gMove!�h (Ellie)

�gGuh!�h (Roel)

I shove him to the side with Telekinesis and keep running towards the stands!

�gEllie has blown Roel back and is�c running away? She�fs clambering onto the wall and into the VIP
seats...�h (Announcer)

I see our family - they�fre all gathered around her!

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

�gMom! She won�ft wake up!�h (Lara)

My heart sinks at the sight.

Kira�fs lying motionless on the ground.

Ariel is standing besides her, trying to heal her!

�g------- [Greater Heal]�h (Ariel)

A faint light envelops Kira, but disappears almost instantly.

�gIt didn�ft work?�h (Ariel)

�gHow can it not work!?�h (Ellie)

Ariel�fs healing magic easily trumps anything else I�fve ever seen!

�gThis one does not know, Mistress! Something is making the spell disappear before it can do anything!�h (Ariel)

I take off my gloves and grab Kira�fs wrist.

She�fs ice cold, but I can feel a pulse.

�gEllie, here!�h (Kelly)

Kelly hands me one of Nano�fs stimpacks.

That�fs right, if magic doesn�ft work, then surely science will!

I take the metal syringe from her and administer it into Kira�fs shoulder.

�gIs Mom going to be okay!?�h (Lara)

�gKelly take the kids away from here!�h (Ellie)

�g... Alright. Come on girls, give them some space.�h (Kelly)

�gContestant Ellie has been disqualified for abandoning the fight! A rather unexpected turn of events!�h
(Announcer)
I wish that guy would shut up!

�gHnn...�h (Kira)

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

She opened her eyes!

They swim around aimlessly, as if she doesn�ft know where she is!

I grab her shoulders and try to get her attention!

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

�g... Ellie�c�h (Kira)

She weakly extends a hand and strokes my cheek.

�c

It�fs still cold.

�gHey beautiful. Fancy seeing you here�c�h (Kira)

Why, Kira?

�gThank you... For being here�c For finding me�c I love you�c�h (Kira)

Why do you sound so far away?

She�fs smiling weakly while her voice gets quieter.

�gKira? Kira don�ft leave me!�h (Ellie)

Her eyes close and she goes limp.

I shake her gently, but there�fs no response.

Just like a cor-

�gKIIIRAAA!�h (Ellie)

I hug her with all my might.

She�fs barely breathing.

{Ellie. You need to remain calm. Think! What would Kira do!?}

Nano�fs right!

This is no time to space out!

Okay Ellie, time to prove that Rank A isn�ft just for show!
Stimpacks will mend any non-permanent injury almost instantly.

If it were poisons or toxins, they would either be broken down safely or nothing would happen!

Such a thing like a stimpack having a temporary effect doesn�ft happen!

On the other hand, Ariel�fs spell failed.

The soft light that�fs supposed to envelop the body for several seconds instead disappeared instantly.

Therefore, it�fs probably better to focus on probable magical causes.

�gAriel, is it a curse?�h (Ellie)

�gNo, Mistress. This one did not feel any foul mana from Mistress Kiressara�fs body. Actually, this one did not
feel any mana from her.�h (Ariel)

No mana?

From the nearly bottomless reserves that Kira has?

I put my hand on Kira�fs forehead and try to feel it for myself.

Just like Ariel says, it�fs not there.

If anything, I feel a slight sensation as if something is trying to suck my mana through my skin...

What if�c I inject my own mana into Kira?

Normally another person�fs mana would just flow over you, but we�fre basically the same person.

It�fs why only we can use something like [Unity].

I grab her cheeks and start pouring mana into Kira�fs head like when we�fre trying to cast that very same spell.

...

Like pouring water in the desert it just disappears somewhere.

It�fs okay, I just have to drown out the desert!

�c

�c

�c

�gGASP!�h (Kira)

It worked!

Her conciousness is hazy, but it�fs there!

Let�fs take this opportunity to get her to the med bay right away!
***

�gKira�c�h (Ellie)

I gently stroke her face while she smiles weakly from her bed.

�gI�fm�c sorry�c for... worrying you... Ellie�c�h (Kira)

�gDon�ft be. We�fll get you better. Nano will find a way.�h (Ellie)

�g... I know�c Nano�c always finds... a way.�h (Kira)

Nano took a bunch of samples from her to analyze about an hour ago.

It�fs impossible to test for everything, so I had him check for something specific first.

Results should be ready soon.

{I have some news.}

See?

A miniature or invisible monster that feeds off mana was my first guess, so I asked Nano to check for that first

Those slimes that roam the fields to the far east are monsters that eat mana to survive, so it was definitely possible.

�gSo it�fs some sort of parasite after all?�h (Ellie)

{Well, that is definitely one way of putting it.}

�g... What do you mean?�h (Ellie)

Act Eight - The Grand Tournament: CANCELLED

New Act Eight - Lineage

{She�fs pregnant.}
Chapter 113 - There's a paper-thin difference between a happy and
unhappy accident - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

{She�fs pregnant.}

�c

I look down at Kira.

Her breathing is getting even more unsteady.

�gNano�c you�fre sure?�h (Ellie)

{Absolutely sure.}

�gKira�c�h (Ellie)

Tears are now streaming down her cheeks.

�gEllie�c I�c We finally�c *Sob* Finally�c *Huck*�h (Kira)

�gI know.�h (Ellie)

I lean in and give her a hug so she can cry all she wants into my shoulder.

This is probably indescribable for her.

She hides it well, but I knew she always regretted not being able to have a child with me.

Nano knew of a way, but we didn�ft have the medical equipment on hand.

But even if we did, my gene therapy had progressed too much for that to even help.

I had a 4% DNA divergence when I came to this world.

That�fs already at a level where it�fs questionable if I was even human anymore.

After Nano advanced my mutation, it spiked to a 9% divergence.

There was no more room for doubt - even with that equipment, I couldn�ft have a child with a human.

Half-breeds are scientifically impossible, you see.

So nothing from our world would ever help us.

Even in this world full of magic, such a spell didn�ft exist.

�gHwaa, huuuu.�h (Kira)

She�fs weeping quietly, too weak to even let her emotions flow properly.
�gNano, when did she�c�h (Ellie)

{Best guess, during the first day of the year.}

�gWhat makes you say that?�h (Ellie)

{She definitely wasn�ft pregnant when the 13th month began, and you used the spell on that day only. It�fs been
two weeks since then so the timing fits.}

�gYou seem awfully calm about this.�h (Ellie)

{Well, I assumed there was a chance considering all the other strange happenings during those two weeks. Also,
this was the whole point of that spell in the first place.}

That�fs right.

If a spell to help us conceive didn�ft exist, we would make one.

A spell which had the ultimate purpose of creating a reality where Kira could bear my child.

That was [Unity].

If we could link our bodies, link our minds, surely something would happen!

Magic is always about vague feelings and force of will, so there was a chance, right?

Such vague hopes were crushed though, it was a failure.

We made love many times under the effect of that spell, but to no avail.

Even if the act itself was more pleasurable, the desired effect was not there.

Eventually we gave up on that idea.

�gBut�c why did it work this time?�h (Ellie)

{Titans?}

�gTitans.�h (Ellie)

�g *Sniffle* Titans�c�h (Kira)

We both nod in understanding.

Those guys are pretty much top-tier in incomprehensibility.

People call us absurd, and while we�fre clearly abnormal, we can�ft hold a candle to those guys.

�gKelly.�h (Ellie)

{�gEllie? Is Red going to be okay?�h} (Kelly)

�gFor now. Go get a ride from Puff and tell the King we�fre taking an unspecified leave of absence due to health
reasons.�h (Ellie)

We�fre technically government workers now, so a little common courtesy is all they�fre getting.

{�g... That bad, huh? Okay, but I expect you tell all of us what�fs going on later.�h} (Kelly)

�gWe will, as soon as we know for sure.�h (Ellie)

There are too many questions here, questions that demand answers.

And luckily, we just happen to know a few weirdos that can give us those answers!

�gAriel, you know how to fly this tower, right?�h (Ellie)

{�gYes, Mistress!�h} (Ariel)

�gGo stock up on supplies for a two week trip. We�fll be departing for Ecebis as soon as possible.�h (Ellie)

{�gUnderstood, Mistress!�h} (Ariel)

We�fre going to get to the bottom of this, but we must be prudent.

Winter is upon us, foraging for food on the way is risky.

***

�gSo. Why are you all here?�h (Ellie)

When Kelly and Ariel returned, they brought some people with them.

I really should be at Kira�fs side in our room, not down here in the living room!

So let�fs wrap this up ASAP!

�gPersonal commission from the king himself, Mrs Quasse.�h (Roel)

The cat-folk adventurer bows grandly while he explains.

�gHis Majesty is deeply concerned about a member of the royal court. My task to assist in any way I can with her
recovery.�h (Roel)

It�fs reassuring to have some back up, but let�fs make sure there are no conflicting interests.

�gWhat about the Tournament?�h (Ellie)

�gIt has been postponed for the foreseeable future.�h (Roel)

�gYou�fre not mad I ran out like that?�h (Ellie)

�gNot in the slightest. I am a man of honor. How can I accept a win by default brought on by your loved one
falling ill? That referee needs to get his head checked!�h (Roel)

Hmm�c I see.
He made a huge deal of my disqualification and resigned from the tournament in protest.

�gUnderstood. As�c acting leader of [Black Flame], I will be counting on you.�h (Ellie)

It wasn�ft completely for our sake though.

His goal was to hone his skills in combat and find a disciple who can inherit his techniques, not make a quick profit.

Seems he had his eye on Flatface, but was disappointed at his shameless attitude.

It�fs not just Roel though, two other competitors also quit the tournament.

One of them was Brand, who was worried more for Kira�fs safety rather than anything else.

He chewed out the referee before making a dramatic exit on Shull�fs back while shouting he wasn�ft coming
back.

The king, who was obviously present at the event, then spouted a bunch of excuses and forced them to postpone it
indefinitely.

Half of the contestants dropped out or refused to fight, so he probably thought it would be too boring like that
anyway.

When Kelly told him we were leaving later in the day, he appeared to show genuine concern.

So that�fs why Brand is coming with us and why Roel is here.

The third, and unquestionably loudest, competitor to leave immediately is the one I�fm most curious about.

Let�fs make sure of his motives.

�gI�fm warning you - if your yelling disturbs Kira then I will personally make sure you never talk again.�h
(Ellie)

Zublos nods at my words.

�gSo, what are you doing here?�h (Ellie)

�g *Cough* The boss and me were deeply worried about Kiressara�fs health, so we dropped by to check up on
her.�h (Lara A)

Oh right, the waitress was there as an interpreter.

Her presence is really small considering the other two visitors in the room.

�gWait, dropped by?�h (Ellie)

We�fre flying some 60 meters up in the air, people don�ft just �edrop by!�f

�gThe boss jumped up here! With me in his arms!�h (Lara A)

Right, I keep forgetting this idiot has way too much muscle.

�gYour avian companion said you were preparing for a journey to get help, so we�fre here to ask if we can offer
our support in any way.�h (Lara A)

�g...�h (Ellie)

�gDon�ft misunderstand this, okay? The boss is desperate to make amends for his mistake. That�fs all there is to
it!�h (Lara A)

No, none of us are going to be making the sort of mistake you�fre thinking about.

Only you�fre weird enough to fall for a guy like that.

{Ellie, we should take them along. He�fs one of them Ancient Evil types, right? Even if his words are weird he
might have information regarding Kira�fs condition.}

Good point.

�gVery well. I will be counting on all of you.�h (Ellie)

I will be sure to work all of them hard!

It is my duty.

Since I�fm the (temporary) leader.

Since I�fm the wife.

Since I�fm the mother.

Since I�fm the father.

At least, I hope I�fm the father.

Even if my jealousy flares up, that�fs mostly to satisfy my own ego.

I trust Kira unconditionally, there�fs no way she�fd cheat on me.

But those shady titans are a different matter altogether.

If one of them tried to hijack Kira�fs womb, I don�ft know how much stabbing I�fll need to do before I will
calm myself down.

Well, they won�ft die from something like that so I�fll be sure not to hold back should that time come.

***

I stare at the unconscious Kira from a nearby chair.

It�fs been two days, but she�fs still unable to walk or stay awake for very long.

For now we�fve only told the rest of them that she�fs very weak and we�fre going to get help.

I�fm not sure if I want to say anything else for the moment.

Whatever�fs inside her clearly isn�ft human.

Nano says it�fs growing at a rate nearly three times faster than a human being.

If it was just that, then we�fd still love it no matter what.

But the real problem is it�fs sucking up all her mana.

I don�ft know how it relates to her physical condition, but there�fs no doubt they�fre linked.

I can only supplement her with enough of my own mana so that she doesn�ft get any worse.

But that�fs just a stopgap measure.

She�fs not getting better either.

Spending months like this is out of the question, but we still have no idea what to do about it.

Zublos didn�ft have any knowledge about what�fs going on with Kira, either.

This sort of situation is completely new to him too.

However, it seems he may be able to alleviate her suffering.

He gave us a list of special ingredients, saying he can make food that aids in mana recovery.

Kira claimed that sort of thing was just an urban legend to hike up the price of hippogryph eggs.

I�fve noticed it too - this world doesn�ft have any methods to aid in mana recovery other than rest.

But if it�fs that guy�fs cooking, then anything can happen.

He may not be the best adventurer, but his skills as a chef are without question.

We�fll drop by a few towns on the way there and see if we can get any of those.

***

I return to Kira�fs bedside where I belong.

She notices me approach and turns her head to greet me.

�gHey beautiful�c�h (Kira)

�gHey Kira.�h (Ellie)

She�fs smiling with some actual vigor now.

I sit next to the bed and gently put my hand in hers.

Kira�fs condition got better ever since we started feeding her Zublos�fs recipes.

That Mana Meringue Pie is particularly effective.

It seems there�fs a secret to preparing the hippogryph eggs so that their effects will show.
She�fs no longer drifting in and out of consciousness and her skin doesn�ft feel as cold anymore.

But all this amounts to is nursing.

She�fs still too weak to walk and even talking seems to wear her out.

�gWe�fll�c make it there�c right?�h (Kira)

We were prepared to abandon the tower halfway to our destination and proceed on foot.

The Magic Stone that kept it afloat would run out of fuel eventually.

Kelly and Ariel tried to fill it, but with me and Kira unable to spare any mana, it was a losing battle.

�gOf course. You just focus on yourself, I�fll take care of everything.�h (Ellie)

Thankfully since we bought up a lot of those ingredients, we all got to eat some of Zublos�fs mana-boosting
dishes.

That guy is proving to be useful in the wrong way entirely, but I�fm not going to complain.

We should arrive in Ecebis tomorrow

***

�g-and since you�fre the only reasonable titan we know, we came to you.�h (Nano/Butler)

Kira�fs in a wheelchair, and I�fm attending to her every need, so Nano volunteered to do the explanations.

�gI see�c You two really went and did something outrageous again.�h (Draglael)

Draglael looks at me and Kira.

At least I don�ft need to stare up at her to make eye contact anymore.

Seems she had the dwarves make her a new statue that�fs basically their own size.

Being 50-meters tall in a society full of shorties is probably inconvenient.

That particular statue was left in a proud pose outside the hall.

We demanded to meet in private, so we�fre currently borrowing part of the senate building.

�gOkay, so to answer the first question you lot have - no, it�fs not a titan�fs child.�h (Draglael)

�gHow can you be so sure?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gCreating life is not something any single titan can do, you know? To begin with, the lesser ones like me and
Umph are completely powerless by ourselves.�h (Draglael)

�gLesser ones?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gAye, out of the nine of us, there�fs three Greater ones and six Lesser ones. You met one of the greats yourself -
that old recluse Khamis.�h (Draglael)

Come to think of it, he was on a level completely different from Umph or Draglael.

He appeared as an intangible mass of smoke and darkness, not a walking statue.

�gAnd you�fd need all three of the big guys to cooperate to create life from nothing. You�fd notice those three if
they ever gathered, trust me on that.�h (Draglael)

I can�ft say I really trust her, I�fll have to confirm this with Kelly later just to be sure.

�gSee, it takes three of them, because there are three major parts to every living being - the vessel, the soul and the
mana that binds them together.�h (Draglael)

I blink a few times at this revelation.

�gBut�c mana is used in magic�c and it runs out�c�h (Ellie)

�gAye, but that�fs the surplus. The overflow. The vessel will not allow the soul to overstep its bounds no matter
what, so just flinging fire around won�ft get you killed.�h (Draglael)

That�c explains a lot actually.

Kira�fs body is in perfect health, yet she is still too weak to stand on her own feet.

�gSo if Kira�fs mana keeps getting drained away�c�h (Ellie)

�gShe might die. Even if she lives through it, I can�ft say if she�fll fully recover.�h (Draglael)

�g...�h (Ellie)

�gBut why is any of this happening in the first place?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gThe reason for that is�c that child is incomplete.�h (Draglael)

�gPlease�c our child�c�h (Kira)

No good, she�fs getting agitated.

�gShh�c Easy Kira. Don�ft push yourself.�h (Ellie)

I stroke her cheek and whisper to her softly.

�gEllie...�h (Kira)

�gI got this.�h (Ellie)

She visibly calms down.

Let�fs see where this titan was headed with that thought first.

�gYou two accomplished a feat of creation that rivals a titan. Right now, inside that red-haired lady is a vessel
made by borrowing the sun�fs power during the unstable 13th month. That�fs Enuri�fs job usually, you know!
�h (Draglael)
So�c the sun can be used as a way of creating living things?

It makes sense, in a way.

Priests are said to borrow the power of the sun to mend flesh after all.

Nano claimed several dozen times it�fs not a regular star to begin with.

I guess it�fs more accurate to think of it like a gigantic magic tool rather than a mass of burning gasses, huh?

�gWhat about the other two parts?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gAnd that, my dear buckethead, is the crux of the issue. What you got there is a third of a person. The lonely
vessel is desperately trying to fill the void in its existence.�h (Draglael)

�gHow what do we do? How can I save them both!?�h (Ellie)

�gYou need to find a soul and stuff it in there! Simple, right?�h (Draglael)

�gOh yeah! Simple! Let me just go grab some glue and- DO YOU THINK THIS IS A FUCKING JOKE!?�h
(Ellie)

�gWoah! Calm down there missy!�h (Draglael)

Ah, my old self showed for a brief moment there.

I should be calm right now, outbursts like that aren�ft helping anyone.

But infuriating things are infuriating.

�gSheesh, just wanted to brighten this gloomy mood a little.�h (Draglael)

I�fll just stab the titan lady later.

It looks like steel, but it�fs closer to flesh, so I�fm expecting good results.

�gSeriously though, that�fs what needs to happen. That gopnik Khamis is still lurking around, so he�fs available
to do the mana binding. However, we need Skittles for the soul.�h (Draglael)

Okay, maybe I should just stab her now.

�g... Skittles?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gAye, Skittles the Soulforger. The last of the big three. If we�fre lucky, she�fll be her friendly self. If we�fre
unlucky, she�fll be her violent self.�h (Draglael)

I see, it�fs another titan.

It was my mistake, stabbing will be postponed as planned.

�gViolent? I thought titans were pacifists.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gMost of us, although it�fs more of a choice than a law. The thing about Skittles is she refuses to abandon her
flesh-and-blood shell. She�fs completely bat-poop crazy like that.�h (Draglael)

�gThen how do we get her help?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gLike I said, depends on which of her selves is in control right now. If it�fs the friendly one, we�fre all set. If
not, we�fd better be prepared for a fight.�h (Draglael)

�gYou�fve been saying �ewe�f for a while now.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gCourse! I�fm coming with! You need another titan to guide you if you want to find her, and I�fm sure
you�fd much rather have me do it rather than either of the other two, right?�h (Draglael)

�gYes.�h (Kira)

�gDefinitely.�h (Ellie)

�gWithout a doubt.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gRight, well. With that flying thing of yours, it should take about 3-4 more days to get to Skittles�fs place from
here.�h (Draglael)

�gAnd where would that place be?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gThe frozen part of the continent further north, beyond the Ecebis Mountain range.�h (Draglael)

�gUnderstood. Let�fs leave immediately.�h (Ellie)

�gYou girls go back to the tower, I want to stock up on warmer clothes. That cold is bound to be much worse than
the Winter we experienced so far.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gThanks, Nano. Come on Kira. Let�fs go save our child!�h (Ellie)

She smiles faintly.

�gAye, aye, sir.�h (Kira)

> Narrator PoV <

As Ellie wheeled Kira out of the audience chamber, Draglael and Nano quietly watched them leave. Once they were
out of earshot, Draglael spoke to the android avatar next to her.

�gYou didn�ft suggest cutting it out of her.�h (Draglael)

It was the straightforward, obvious and quick solution.

�gNeither did you.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gAs if any self-respecting parent would suggest something like that!�h (Draglael)

Indeed, the Steelmother thought of all dwarves as her family. Although every titan was technically a parent, it was
only her that took this much direct involvement in the lives of her kin.

�gI can relate.�h (Nano/Butler)

Draglael�fs steel eyelids fluttered several times in surprise.

�gYou�c have kin?�h (Draglael)

�gDoes a blue-haired surrogate daughter count as kin?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gNo. It doesn�ft.�h (Draglael)

�gToo bad. It should.�h (Nano/Butler)

Draglael thought about those words. The android�fs voice module delivered them in a perfectly calm monotone,
but they seemed to resonate deep within her. Four simple words tugged at something within Draglael.

Too bad. It should.

She had to acknowledge this existence before her. Their interactions were short, but she had gleaned much about its
true nature.

A mind that could accept and question something in the same breath. A being that could rival magic without using
magic. A living paradox that was not alive.

�gBefore you go, I wonder if you�fll listen to an old soul�fs prattle for a while.�h (Draglael)

�gI can spare some time.�h (Nano/Butler)

It was a simple matter for Nano. It just needed to send another butler-type android to do the shopping. That level of
multitasking was child�fs play for an AI.

�gThen let�fs start with a question. Where do you think titans come from?�h (Draglael)
Chapter 114 - There are some things you can say, and some you can't -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

�gGirls, your moms are calling you upstairs to their room. They have something important to tell you.�h
(Nano/Butler)

That�fs not a good sign. I�fd say that�fs actually very bad. They wouldn�ft let us see Mom ever since she
fainted. If she got better there�fd be hugs and laughs all around as usual. But Nano�fs words don�ft sound like
there would be a lot of that!

Ack! Get it together Lara! You have to set a good example for your sister!

�gGot it. Come on Sophie.�h (Lara)

�g...�h (Sophie)

I grab her by the hand and lead her out of our room. Seeing that invincible and outrageous person suddenly get sick
must have reminded her of our first house. Of our first mom.

Sophie�fs shut herself completely inside herself, same as back then. It wasn�ft until we were far away from that
place that she would start opening up to the world. And it wasn�ft until we were taken in by our current moms that
she was finally able to laugh and smile like a flower in full bloom. My little sister is simply the cutest when she�fs
happy, I sorely miss that side of her now.

I reach the room that�fs normally off-limits. Our moms�f bedroom. I open the door and walk inside, almost
dragging Sophie behind me.

Mom�fs too weak to get out of bed, just like Nano said... Ellie is there too, watching over her.

�gHey girls�c�h (Kira)

Wow, was that supposed to be a whisper?

�gHi Mom.�h (Lara)

�gMOOOOMMMYYYY!�h (Sophie)

She broke away from my hand and ran up to the bed! Hey it�fs a sick person so something like climbing up onto
the bed is not permitted okay!?

�gOh�c sweetie�c�h (Kira)

She gives her a big old hug�c but Mom can barely stand up to receive it properly.

�g *Sniffle* Please don�ft leave us Mommy!�h (Sophie)

Yep, it was that after all. Those painful memories... I had to put up a strong front back then as well.

�gShhh�c I�fm not�c going anywhere�c�h (Kira)

She slowly wraps her hands around Sophie and strokes her back.

�gLara, don�ft just stand there. Come greet your mother properly.�h (Ellie)

�gRight�c Can�c Can I get a hug, too?�h (Lara)

If Sophie can be comforted, then I should be able to join in, right?

�gOf course�c�h (Kira)

I walk closer to the bed. Sophie�fs curled up with her head on Mom�fs chest, crying softly.

�gThere, there�c Let it all out�c Mommy�fs right here�c�h (Kira)

I climb up onto it and lie down next to Mom. I never understood why this bed was so big, but I�fm glad it is.

�gLara�c I missed you so much�c �g(Kira)

I lean over and hug her across the shoulders. I�fm trying to be careful, you shouldn�ft burden a sick person too
much, right?

�gCome on�c what was that�c don�ft hold back�c�h (Kira)

An arm wraps around me and pulls me in closer. She kisses my forehead and then Sophie�fs. Yep, that�fs her
alright. Even when sick she doesn�ft hold back.

�gYou�fll get better, right?�h (Lara)

I give her a serious look, because it�fs obviously a serious matter. She smiles slightly and gently closes her eyes.

�gOf course�c Ellie promised�c She�fd make it all�c better�c�h (Kira)

Wow, how can she be so at peace considering-

�gOkay!�h (Sophie)

Urk!

�gCome on big sis! This is no time to mope around! Mommy, can I get you anything? Water? Some food? More
hugs?�h (Sophie)

No, Sophie, that complete recovery of yours is too sudden!

�gHugs�c sound good�c�h (Kira)

�gYaay! Snuggles!�h (Sophie)

*PLOMP*

�gGah!�h (Lara)

She basically threw herself on top of me and Mom! I look up in a panic, but what I see isn�ft the pained expression
I was expecting! What greets me is that self-satisfied smirk she makes when she�fs ripping someone off!
�gHeee�c Heee�c there we go�c�h (Kira)

Why do I feel like we got pranked? Wasn�ft she really sick? No, this is that mother of mine we�fre talking
about. Something like faking a sickness so she teaches us some 'valuable' lesson isn�ft unthinkable!

�c

�gYou�fre not lying just to make us feel better, right?�h (Lara)

�gBig sis! Shame on you! Ellie promised she�fd make Mommy get better you know!�h (Sophie)

�gNo no no! Grown ups like Mom lie all the time to kids like us, Sophie!�h (Lara)

�gOh yeah? Prove it!�h (Sophie)

�gLike when Mom-! Uhm�c No, that was my own fault for misunderstanding�c But�c Huh?�h (Lara)

Come to think of it, they never outright lied to us. I mean they don�ft tell us stuff sometimes, but that�fs normal
right? I also have some things I can�ft tell our moms. That�fs why I tell Kelly or miss Ariel!

�gSee!? You can�ft admit you were wrong so you�fre just getting lost in her own head again!�h (Sophie)

�gHoooh. Big words coming from a little sister that barely said a word while staring at the floor for two weeks!�h
(Lara)

�gThis and that are completely unrelated.�h (Sophie)

Ah, she�fs hopeless. She�fs flawlessly picked up Mom�fs self-delusional habit!

...

�gMom, you�fll get better, right? I need to hear it for myself!�h (Lara)

�gI promise�c Sweetie�c�h (Kira)

�gSee!? When both of them promise then there�fs nothing to worry about!�h (Sophie)

�gYeah...�h (Lara)

I would like to call that baseless confidence, but nothing stands in the way of our moms when they get serious.

�gGirls. Things might get dangerous in a few days, so I need you two to keep out of sight and listen carefully to
Nano, got it?�h (Ellie)

�gYes!�h (Sophie)

�gLeave it to me!�h (Lara)

She said something like that when they first met the big statue lady. It was a bit scary at first with all the shaking and
screeching, but Nano and Kelly were nearby so it wasn�ft that bad. Does this mean something equally outrageous
is going to happen soon!? I wonder if they�fll split open the sky this time!

�gGood. Now run along. We still have to speak with the others.�h (Ellie)
�gAwww�c but snuggles�c�h (Sophie)

�gNow, young lady!�h (Ellie)

She climbs down from the bed with a disappointed look. There�fs no need to be that devastated you know!

�gYou too, Lara!�h (Ellie)

Ok, I take it back. I got cocky so please don�ft separate me from-

�gWaaah! Okay! Okay! I�fm off! Put me down!�h (Lara)

I was grabbed and dangled upside-down! This is child abuse, isn�ft it!?

She puts me down on the ground and nudges me away from the bed!

�gSorry, but it�fs important. Please don�ft be mad, okay? You can visit again later.�h (Ellie)

�gI�fll hold you to that!�h (Lara)

We leave the room and close the door behind us. Somehow I ended up getting mad, I have no idea what just
happened!

�gHumm ~�ô humm ~? humm ~�ô�h (Sophie)

Well, Sophie�fs skipping along the corridor while humming, so at least she�fs back to her cheerful self. She really
is adorable when she�fs like this!

Come to think of it, wasn�ft Mom�fs belly a bit bloated?

> Ellie PoV <

�gYou�fre sure you don�ft want to tell them?�h (Ellie)

�gYes�c Too soon�c�h (Kira)

Kira rubs her belly while putting on a troubled face.

Since we�fre not sure how or when we�fll convince that titan to help us, she doesn�ft want them to find out yet.

Well, I agree with not burdening those two with the truth.

I�fm still a bit worried how they�fll react to the news.

Hopefully they won�ft be thinking things like we�fll throw them away or neglect them.

No, I suppose we�fve been neglecting them a lot recently.

�gI hope�c it�fs born�c safely�c�h (Kira)

�gMe too.�h (Ellie)

Draglael has given her word several times that it is indeed the product of mine and Kira�fs love.
Nano can�ft confirm such a thing since genetics played no part in this.

So I�fll just choose to believe in that fellow mother.

Nano seems to trust her, but I have trouble doing so.

I can�ft read titan minds at all.

There�fs no brain to read in that hunk of steel, it�fs not surprising.

Hmm, does that mean there�fs no brain in Zublos�fs head, either?

No, I�fm sure there is, but that sort of thing is not what I should be focusing on.

�gNano. Get Kelly and Ariel in here. They should know.�h (Ellie)

{Sure, I�fll send them up.}

Unlike Sophie and Lara, those two are completely capable of understanding the gravity of the situation.

They�fll also be working with me to resolve it, so it�fs good that they find out the stakes.

We already told Zublos since we had to ask for his advice.

Bringing that guy along proved unexpectedly good in a weird way.

As for Roel, he�fs perfectly content being thought of as a sword, he doesn�ft need any motivation to do his job.

I just wish he�fd stop pestering me for sparring matches.

I�fm very bad at holding back, you see.

No, perhaps I should agree and break a few of his bones so he�fd leave me alone?

Ariel�fs here so she can fix him right up!

Though that might be dangerous since he�fs taken a fancy to me.

I really don�ft want to deal with another Ariel...

Ah, but he�fd probably demand I use my sword in a serious fight.

That�fs something that will not end well.

My swordplay really isn�ft as beautiful as he seems to thinks it is.

It�fs an assassin�fs blade, it�fs meant for robbing life, not protecting it.

*Knock knock*

�gCome in.�h (Ellie)

�gThis one has answered your summons, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

�gWhere�fs Kelly?�h (Ellie)

�gThis one believes Kelly is currently getting ready for something.�h (Ariel)

Hmm?

But we�fre just going to have a little chat, right?

Oh, there she is!

�g�eKay! I�fm compl- *hic* completely ready for ya! Lay it on me!�h (Kelly)

She stumbles into the room while reeking of alcohol.

What is she even doing at a time like this?!

�gWhy are you drunk, Kelly?�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm just�c just just�c getting a head start. You four are about to spout something unbelievable at *hic* at
me, right? This time I�fm prebeered! I mean�c prepe- p�c I got wasted in advance!�h (Kelly)

�gUgh�c�h (Kira)

Kira�fs so disgusted she goes out of her way to roll her eyes.

I�fm not sure if that�fs something worthy of wasting her energy on...

�gMistress? Are you in pain?�h (Ariel)

�gShe�fs fine. Well, she�fs probably getting a headache, but it�fs unrelated to her condition.�h (Ellie)

�gAnd�c if this unworthy one may be so bold as to ask, what is Mistress�fs condition?�h (Ariel)

I squeeze Kira�fs hand while a smile floats to her face.

That�fs right Kira, ignore the stumbling dwarf that�fs about to throw up and focus entirely on the positive.

A healthy mind begets a healthy body!

No, wait that�fs backwards, isn�ft it!?

Aaaargh this is no time for that sort of thing!

This is the first time I�fm saying it out loud, so I need to do it properly!

�gKira�fs pregnant with my child.�h (Ellie)

�g... Nope. Nope. Nope nope nope nope nope NOOOPE NOOOPE NOOOPE NOOOPE!�h (Kelly)

Kelly runs out of the room.

I guess she wasn�ft as prepared as she thought.

�gAh! This one is overjoyed! Now this one can also pledge herself to Mistress�fs rightful heir!�h (Ariel)
And Ariel is focusing on some strange thing as usual.

�gThis�c This must be a miracle of Enuri! This one-�h (Ariel)

�gAriel!�h (Ellie)

�gY-yes, Mistress!?�h (Ariel)

�gSome random incompetent titan had absolutely nothing to do with this. This child is entirely the fruit of mine
and Kira�fs efforts. If you spread such a lie around you will not be forgiven! Do I make myself clear!?�h (Ellie)

�gHng! Yes! Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gGood, now listen up. The problem is the child is not well and it�fs affecting Kira. That�fs why we�fre going
after this titan. We need to secure her co-operation to save them both. Now go prove your head isn�ft just for
decoration and make sure Kelly understands that!�h (Ellie)

�gAt once, Mistress! Also, if this one may be so bold�c Congratulations Mistress Kiressara, Mistress Ellie.�h
(Ariel)

�gThank you�c�h (Kira)

Judging from how her expression becomes even more peaceful, this must have been what Kira wanted to hear.

Ariel says some nice things when she wants to.

Maybe Nano�fs behavioral therapy is finally showing some results?

�gThis one has received Mistress�fs word of thanks! This one is unworthy! Surely this sin calls for punishment,
yes?�h (Ariel)

Okay, maybe not.

Chapter 115 - Take care of your pets and they'll take care of you -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I�fve gathered everyone in the conference room.

Well, it�fs really just the living room with a large table in the middle, but that�fs not important.

It�fs time to give them an actual briefing.

�gOur mission is to find a titan.�h (Ellie)

�gIf you need to find a titan you should have said so earlier! I can lead you to the one called Dorr. My team and I
met him during our travels.�h (Roel)

�gReally now? You met an actual titan just like that!? You know we had to take down a bloody dragon before-�h
(Kelly)

�gKelly! Not important. I appreciate the input Roel, but we need a specific one, know as the Soulforger.�h (Ellie)

�gThe Soulforger?! Wasn�ft that the one that was... you know�c�h (Brand)

�gCompletely bat-poop crazy? Yes, that one.�h (Draglael)

�gAh, excuse me Mrs Quasse, but who is this shiny know-it-all lady?�h (Roel)

�gThat�fs Draglael, the Steelmother. Also a titan. She�fs here to help us find the one we are looking for.�h
(Ellie)

�gHuh? But�c can those beings really be that small? The one we met was at a colossal treant!�h (Roel)

�gI used to be larger, you know!? A 50-meter tall mass of steel and awesome!�h (Draglael)

�gThen, how did you obtain that form?�h (Roel)

�gThe miracle of dieting!�h (Draglael)

�gDraglael, do you want to get stabbed in the face again?�h (Ellie)

She kept trying to crack those stupid jokes, I warned her multiple times to take this seriously.

After thirty knife wounds to the face she said she would stop trying to be funny.

I guess since she healed herself almost instantly, the lesson didn�ft sink in.

Maybe I should have went for the full course of 100 stabs after all?

�gFine! Fine, I get it. Sheesh.�h (Draglael)

�gHonestly�c And you call yourself a mother with that attitude�c�h (Ellie)
�gBetter than you, Mrs Stabby McPsycho.�h (Draglael)

*SHLUP*

�gAAAARGH!�h (Draglael)

�gWhat did I just say?�h (Ellie)

�gWHY!? WHY IS IT ALWAYS MY FACE!?�h (Draglael)

She�fs trying to pull the Letterminator out of her left eye socket.

I have to thank Olboun for that later, it really is a good weapon.

�gMrs Quasse! What are you doing to that poor woman!?�h (Roel)

�gDiscipline. Don�ft worry, she�fs fine. There isn�ft even any blood, see?�h (Ellie)

�gB-But she�fs a woman, right?! How can you cold-heartedly attack her just for that?!�h (Roel)

�gMistress�fs words of wisdom are never wrong. The filthy vermin deserved what it got for ignoring them.�h
(Ariel)

�g... What?�h (Roel)

�gTrust me, it�fs your loss if you mind it.�h (Kelly)

�gI don�ft�c quite�c follow�c�h (Roel)

�gShe�fs saying don�ft let the small stuff bother you. You�fll live longer.�h (Brand)

�gHere, have a Calming Cookie and relax yourself!�h (Lara A)

�gTh-thanks�c�h ( Roel)

Why is Zublos raising his hand like that?

Oh, he must want to ask a question!

�gWhat is it Zublos?�h (Ellie)

Now he�fs making some weird hand gestures to Lara who�fs sitting beside him.

Probably related to his promise to keep quiet for Kira�fs sake.

At least someone here has decent manners!

�gHe�fs asking how finding this titan relates to Kiressara�fs... condition.�h (Lara A)

Lara is being careful not to spill the beans on Kira�fs pregnancy.

Well, we had to tell Zublos to get his opinion on the matter.

And since it was a complicated topic, Lara had to be present so we could understand him better.
She was super excited for Kira when she found out, but at the same time she had several scandalous
misunderstandings.

That sort of thinking is why we want to be careful.

I want to avoid starting any weird rumors that might hurt Kira or our family.

�gLong story short, we need that titan�fs power to make Kira better.�h (Ellie)

�gOkay�c but will that titan just willingly cooperate like that with total strangers?�h (Roel)

�gDraglael?�h (Ellie)

Looks like she�fs fully recovered already, as expected.

�gHaah, that stung like a cunt! Honestly why don�ft you-�h (Draglael)

�gAnswer the question or else you get the knife again.�h (Ellie)

�gOkay, okay! Damned psycho... Right. The problem with Skittles is she�fs the only one of us that inhabits a
flesh and blood shell. A titan�fs vast power trapped in a fragile vessel like that does weird things to your mind,
see?�h (Draglael)

Why is Zublos nodding with a face like he�fs being sympathetic?

Well, either that or he�fs smelling something bad.

�gAs a result of being completely fooked in the head, she has several personalities inside her. If we catch the
friendly one, she�fll help out for sure.�h (Draglael)

�g... Why do I get the impression that�fs not going to happen?�h (Kelly)

�gIt�fs unlikely, yes. She has loads of different sides of her and only one of those will be willing to help us right
away.�h (Draglael)

�gThen, what are the other ones?�h (Brand)

�gThere�fs ten of them in total.�h (Draglael)

Wow, that many!?

As expected of titans, even their mental illnesses are on a different level!

�gHer original personality - the white one - is the only reasonable one. That�fs the one we want. If we get angry
red or feral brown she�fs likely to attack us on sight.�h (Draglael)

�gTitans can get violent?�h (Kelly)

�gShe�fs completely bonkers, remember?�h (Draglael)

�gRight, right. Stupid question. What�fs with the colors though?�h (Kelly)

�gAh right, it�fs the color of her hair. It changes whenever a new personality takes over. Trust me, that slag is
extremely easy to read once you meet her.�h (Draglael)

Okay, I take it back.

The name Skittles is perfect for her.

But if things escalate to the point of a fight breaking out, will she still be willing to help us?

�gWhat do we do if we don�ft get the white one?�h (Ellie)

�gDepends on the personality. For example, if it�fs one of the violent ones then you have to pound some sense
into her until that part of her retreats and a new one takes its place. Also, it�fs a bit of a tall order, but if you can
completely decimate her body, her original personality will resurface for sure.�h (Draglael)

Okay, that�fs a bit of a tall order.

If Draglael and Umph are anything to go by, titans are super sturdy.

That Elder Dragon�fs regeneration was good, but those two completely overshadow it.

�gIsn�ft that basically telling us to kill her!?�h (Roel)

�gTitans are immortal. As long as we make a new shell for her, she�fll be just fine. Besides, I�fm sure she�fll
run off to get a new flesh and blood one from that chrome dome the instant she gets a chance.�h (Draglael)

�gIf we�fre going to fight her, we need to know what she can throw at us.�h (Ellie)

�gWell, the red one is a mass of rage while the brown one is a ball of instincts. Red mostly tries to punch you into
soup while the brown one will ensnare you in thread and weaken you with poison.�h (Draglael)

�gThread and poison!? Why does she sound like a spider?�h (Brand)

�gBecause she is. Her shell is a spider body with a woman�fs upper torso sticking out of the front side of it. The
first and last of the Arachne. Progenitor of all spider monsters on this world.�h (Draglael)

�gThen�c those things in the Depths�c�h (Brand)

�gThat�fs right. Those are her kin. Her�c vengeance.�h (Draglael)

Brand and Kelly�fs expressions get dark all of a sudden.

The majority of monsters inhabiting the depths under Ecebis were giant spiders, right?

That titan seems to have filled it to the brim with monsters for some reason...

Those senators said the threat in the Depths reduced drastically when Khamis and Draglael woke up, but that
doesn�ft make sense.

Come to think of it, that thing that we fought during the ceremony with Umph was also in the shape of a spider.

It seemed really determined to stop the whole thing from happening.

Seems Skittles has a grudge against Umph and/or Draglael and wanted to keep them dormant.
But since that�fs no longer possible, she lost her reason to send spider monsters at them?

On the other hand, it�fs also possible that Skittles is the origin of that Calling thing that gave Kelly so much
trouble.

She�fs obviously connected to it in some way.

If you think about it, the Calling is just an extra-potent curse targeted at titans.

Curses, souls and madness are right up her alley, right?

It�fs all connected in some way, but I�fm missing part of the picture.

If it was Kira, she�fd probably have seen right through this...

But ultimately, none of that is important right now.

Knowing the truth won�ft change what we need to do to save Kira and our baby.

If I remember right, Kelly said titans aren�ft inherently evil, they just are.

Discerning their motives is like trying to guess what the wind is doing.

But if that one really is as insane as Draglael says, I think we can safely file her away under the Ancient Evil
category.

Thankfully we have our own Ancient Evil with us this time.

He�fll be really useful as long as he just follows his instructions.

Same with Roel, and pretty much everyone else when I think about it.

I pity the person who has to give the orders around here.

�c

Oh wait, that�fs me!

***

�gYo. I�fve been meaning to talk about that gryphon of yours. He seems a bit odd.�h (Draglael)

Draglael approaches me in the yard after the meeting.

She said we�fd reach that crazy lady�fs position in a few hours, so I�fm in the middle of preparations.

�gHmm? You mean Puff?�h (Ellie)

�gKyak?�h (Puff)

The saddle we got for him from the capital had gotten too small before we realized it.

He�fs still growing and it�fs been a while since he wore it.
I�fm making sure the adjustments Nano made to the straps fit comfortably and snugly around his body.

Preparations are important.

�gPuff. You named him Puff. Why would you name him something ridiculous like that?�h (Draglael)

�gShow her, Puff.�h (Ellie)

�gHuuuu-KUHAAAAAA-�h (Puff)

*FWOOOOSH*

He draws a line in the air with a dragon-like breath of blue flame.

You can really feel the heat from it, especially in contrast to the cold air!

Thankfully the weather so close to the polar ice cap is dry.

Getting heavy snow onto the flying tower might cause us to go over weight capacity, you see.

�g-AAAAH! Kah. Koff.�h (Puff)

Ah, he choked a bit on the leftover smoke!

Well, the breath is magical in nature rather than chemical, so he should be fine.

�gGood boy! That was perfect!�h (Ellie)

I pat his neck several times as a reward.

�gKuuuuu.�h (Puff)

He�fs looking awfully proud of himself, as well he should be!

Both the amount and his control over it grow day by day!

�gWho�fs mommy�fs awesome harbinger of destruction? Yes you are! Yes, you, are!�h (Ellie)

I praise him as I keep petting and scratching his head.

He especially likes this one spot under his beak.

Ah, I probably shouldn�ft, he might get cocky again.

But I�fm super proud of him, so I can�ft help myself!

I don�ft know if there�fs anything cooler than a fire breathing gryphon!

No, wait!

What if Scrappy rides on his back while he breathes flames!?!

Just imagining it is intense enough to make me almost faint from excitement!!

�gOkay. That just happened.�h (Draglael)

Oh right, she was still here.

�gSo, what did you want?�h (Ellie)

�gThat gryphon�fs a bit�c where did you even find this guy?�h (Draglael)

�gHuh? He hatched out of the egg we bought. Where else?�h (Ellie)

�gOkay... and what did you do with this egg?" (Draglael)

�gWhat we were supposed it. We gave it plenty of mana every day and eventually Puff came out of it. He hatched
just like Fluffles did.�h (Ellie)

�g... You gave it mana? As in, you poured mana into it on purpose?�h (Draglael)

�gOf course.�h (Ellie)

That�fs how you normally incubate a gryphon egg, right?

�gWhat were you thinking!? Gryphon eggs absorb all the mana they need on their own! Without any of your
meddling!�h (Draglael)

Hmm?

�gWas there something like that?�h (Ellie)

�gYes. Yes there was! That�fs how gryphons normally get born!�h (Draglael)

Come to think of it, Lara and Sophie can�ft do mana manipulation and still hatched a healthy baby gryphon.

�gSo?�h (Ellie)

I still don�ft see what the big deal is.

�gSo something like forcefully filling it with mana is�c It�fs a miracle you didn�ft boil that egg!�h (Draglael)

Ah, I see, we unknowingly did something bad...

Still, what�fs done is done.

Besides, I still don�ft see any reason to be so flustered.

�gHe�fs growing up just fine, isn�ft he?�h (Ellie)

Better than fine, actually.

It took me a while to notice, but Puff is much stronger and faster than Fluffles.

His reflexes are top notch as well.

When we played fetch he caught the stick I threw every single time!
Fluffles, on the other hand, couldn�ft even see it!

I used the same level of strength I do when throwing knives, you know!

Sophie and Lara had to console Fluffles for the rest of the day since he was upstaged by his younger brother.

�gJust fine she says�c Do you have any idea what this creature you�fve created is!?�h (Draglael)

�gOf course. He�fs Puff the Magic Gryphon.�h (Ellie)

�gKwaa.�h (Puff)

�gFine! Do what you want! Don�ft come crying to me when you�fre all bowing down to your magical gryphon
overlords in a few hundred years!�h (Draglael)

She walks away in a huff while complaining about something incomprehensible.

Hmm?

Puff�fs looking her way with a weird glint in his eye.

Damn, I think she gave him some weird ideas.

Let�fs talk some sense into him and nip this one in the bud.

�gPuff, no taking over and enslaving the free world, got it?�h (Ellie)

�gKwak! Keeee!�h (Puff)

�gI mean it. I�fll get very mad at you if you do something pointless like that.�h (Ellie)

�gKuuuu�c�h (Puff)

Some mother she�fs turning out to be, her bad influence almost rubbed off on Puff.

He�fs still only a few months old, so he�fs quite impressionable you know!

I have to set the record straight here.

�gIt�fs far more effective to control the world from the shadows through a combination of debt, blackmail and
bribery while masquerading as a benevolent person to the general public.�h (Ellie)

Honestly, these people don�ft know the first thing about clandestine operations.

�gKooooh! Kwaa.�h (Puff)

�gGood boy. Now don�ft move, I still have a few straps to buckle up!�h (Ellie)

Some trivia - initially I was going to make Puff a two-headed gryphon. But then I couldn't make a satisfactory pun
or reference out of his name, so I went with the fire-breathing one.
Chapter 116 - Violence is always an answer, but it's almost never the
right one - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

�gAll done, Kira. That should last you for a while.�h (Ellie)

Ellie had finished sharing a significant portion of her mana with Kira.

�gThanks�c beautiful�c Now go�c save our baby�c save your wifey�c�h (Kira)

�gOf course! As if I�fd let anything take either of you from me!�h (Ellie)

�gHeee�c heee�c Ellie has�c become�c quite selfish�c�h (Kira)

�gI learned from the best.�h (Ellie)

Ellie leaned in and shared a light kiss with her bedridden wife. She then got up and dutifully left to fulfill her
mission. Nobody knew how long it would take. It could be an hour or it could be days. It all depended on the luck of
the draw, so she needed to ration her remaining mana for Kira�fs sake.

And the first draw was no good. Draglael had led them to Skittles�fs position - a super-sized Monster Hole.

Hundreds of skeletons, Frost Wolves, Ice Trolls and spider-shaped Figments made of ice. Four types of enemies
were gathered in one massive horde which surrounded the entrance to an icy cave. More were undoubtedly inside.
What made things particularly troublesome, however, were the 21 Northern Rocs flying around the place.

Normally all these disparate monsters would be at each other�fs throats. Ice Trolls normally didn�ft even get
along with others of their species, let alone undead, wolves or the golem-like Figments! The fact all these monsters
getting along was unquestionable evidence something was manipulating them.

It seemed the first personality they would encounter was Paranoid Yellow - a scaredy-cat that hides herself away and
enthralls a large number of monsters to defend herself from some imagined enemy. Well, in this case the enemy was
very real. If those guards were defeated and then someone touched the titan�fs body directly, the personality would
get so scared it would retreat deep into the titan�fs shattered mind, allowing another one to surface.

So this first encounter was going to take a while, but it was also straightforward - wipe out the enemy and capture
the target. Then they would have to deal with the next personality, and then the next, until they reached Original
White.

As Ellie marched herself off towards the battlefield, she yet again recalled a certain vow. A vow she exchanged with
her wife-to-be many months ago. A vow said without words, yet louder than a hundred thunderstorms.

Until my life runs out.

Until my bones turn to dust.

Until the last ember of my soul fades away.

Nothing will take her away from me.

***
The Northern Rocs fancied themselves kings of this frozen wasteland. These giant snow-colored birds of prey had 6
meter long bodies and a wingspan almost twice that. Combined with talons powerful enough to pierce steel plate
armor, they were the unquestionable top of the food chain.

The ones gathered here weren�ft actually influenced by the currently yellow titan�fs presence - that only affected
lesser monsters like the ones on the ground. The reason they made nests in this area was that the Ice Trolls and Frost
Wolves that gathered here made for easy prey. They were plentiful and filling, even if not particularly tasty.

Today as well, the flock of over twenty Rocs were spending their time idly, enjoying the easy life. They had grown
totally complacent. This went double for the leader - the Alpha. It did not even consider that something terrifying
could be directly above them. Like, for example, a 2 and a half meter tall humanoid figure falling towards it at high
speed.

*CRUNCH*

�gKREAOK!�h (Alpha Northern Roc)

Zublos landed boots-first onto the back of the biggest Roc in the area, which also happened to be the one flying the
highest. The bone-shattering impact seemed to echo in the surroundings. It was a testament to the Alpha�fs
prowess that it did not immediately start plummeting into the ground.

KNEEL BEFORE ZUBLOS

That happened moments later, when Zublos swung a gigantic sword as tall as he was like a golf club. It made a deep
wound on the Alpha�fs back, severing its spine and reaping its life. The powerful wings stopped flapping as the
feathery carcass lost momentum and succumbed to gravity.

�gYou heard the man!�h (Kelly)

*CRUNCH*

Before the rest of the flock could react, a second almost identical sound resounded through the air. This was the
noise of an intoxicated dwarf-shaped battering ram slamming into a Northern Roc at high speed. Unlike
Zublos, Scrappy�fs much heavier frame made an impact that killed its victim on the spot.

�gHaaah. I don�ft know what I expected.�h (Ellie)

Ellie sighed in exasperation as she watched her two comrades falling like rocks along with their now-dead quarry.

�gI think my little sister isn�ft drinking from a full mug, if you know what I�fm saying.�h (Brand)

�gWill they be alright?�h (Roel)

Ellie, Brand and Roel were currently riding on Puff, Shull and Fluffles, respectively. They were planning on
ambushing the Rocs from above. A plan that was now void thanks to a certain pair of meat-heads. Ellie finally
understood why Kira disliked dwarves on principle.

�gKelly can slow her descent and the loudmouth has that idiocy-powered body. They�fll be just fine.�h (Ellie)

Until a few moments ago, Zublos was being carried by the shoulders in Puff�fs grip, while Kelly was hoisted
similarly by Shull. Ellie had gotten the idea from Kelly�fs actions during the Calling incident in Ecebis and was
planning a simultaneous attack that would take out six flying targets in an instant.
Unfortunately, Zublos had a very weak grasp on the concept of �eambush�f and wrestled free from Puff�fs
talons too early. Kelly, who was already quite drunk from her �epreparations�f said it seemed like a good idea and
followed suit.

�gWhat are your orders, Mistress?�h (Ariel)

Ariel was naturally there as well. Her multi-functional magical support and all-terrain mobility made her an
extremely reliable ally in any situation.

�gBrand and I will keep the Rocs busy. Fluffles will drop Roel off on the ground and then return to base! Ariel,
support us as you see fit while maintaining that song of yours.�h (Ellie)

It was slightly different from the original plan, but the ambush had already been revealed. Wasting time here would
be detrimental.

�gLet�fs go! Puff!�h (Ellie)

�gKwaa!�h (Puff)

Puff went into a nosedive, followed by Shull and Fluffles. As the three gryphons and their riders approached the
enemy, Ariel started one of her magical songs.

�gAaaha haa haaaaah! Ha haaAAAA ha-ha-hahaaah!�h (Ariel) AN: Cue the music?

Her voice carried itself clearly through the cold air. It was the [Song of Courage] that temporary boosted the
strength and agility of those she recognized as allies.

By the time that song reached Kelly and Zublos, they were already on the ground with the flood of monsters was
trying to overwhelm them. They never stood a chance.

The monsters, that is.

Kelly had hit the ground hard, but luckily the Roc�fs body cushioned her fall while her armor absorbed the shock.
She was instantly surrounded on all sides with no way out. Not that she needed one.

�gHeeya! Taaaake that! Aaaand this! Ha-yah!�h (Kelly)

Scrappy�fs arms kept moving ceaselessly while its feet were firmly planted on the icy ground for stability. There
were so many enemies around her, that even blind swings hit something. And with every hit, a monster got
annihilated. Skeletons and Figments got pummeled into fragments while Ice Trolls became bags of crushed bones
and Frost Wolves became piles of mush.

�gOi, cuntface! Come back here so I can end you! YOU AND ALL YOUR BLOODY MATES! DEERRYAA!
�h (Kelly)

Obviously her taunts would have no effect on the enthralled monsters. However, she was in the middle of a rampage
fueled by alcohol and adrenaline. She was too busy enjoying herself to mind details like that.

�gThat all you got? My mother hits harder than you!�h (Kelly)

Needless to say, none of the attacks she took made so much as a scratch on Scrappy�fs impregnable shell. Kelly
had become literally knee-deep in monster bits at this point.
OUT OF MY WAY, VERMIN!

While Kelly was doing her best impression of an Immovable Object, Zubols was doing his own impression an
Unstoppable Force. He had hit the ground running and never stopped since. He charged ever onward, his trademark
heavy robe fluttering around him, turning him into a red blur. Wherever he appeared, a punch, kick or a swing of his
massive sword would leave little behind.

ZUBLOS SHALL GRIND YOU INTO DUST

Today, he was completely a man of his word. His body suffered numerous wounds as he rushed blindly forward.
The Figments of Skittles were a particular nuisance. These frozen spiders would shoot out icicles rather than webs.
The shards of ice would rain down like arrows, digging deep into Zublos�fs flesh.

DIE, INSECT

*CRUNCH*

It did not even slow him down as he trampled over them. Covered in wounds, bleeding profusely, leaving a bloody
trail in the snow-covered ground as he ran madly through a sea of enemies. It was hard to tell which side was the
monster anymore.

PUNY WEAKLINGS! FEEL THE WRATH OF ZUBLOS!

The truth of the matter is, his robe was a top-tier magical artifact. It greatly enhanced his body�fs already
formidable regeneration. It even came with a self-cleaning and self-repair function. Truly a garment worthy of
someone who once bore the title of Dark King.

�gWell, those guys are already busy. I guess I�fd better earn my keep. Appreciate the ride, Fluffles!�h (Roel)

�gKwaa~�h (Fluffles)

Fluffles gave a dismissive voice. He did not care for Roel at all. He was only here because Ellie, who was like a
grandparent to him, had made this request. After Roel dismounted him, Fluffles was instantly retreated to Lara and
Sophie�fs side as instructed. It was a precaution just in case one of these Rocs (or something else) got any funny
ideas.

Roel leaped boldly into the middle of the fray and immediately got to work. He dashed forward with a sword in each
hand, decapitating two trolls in an instant. His rapier-wielding tail struck like a scorpion stinger, stabbing a third troll
through its heart.

He then noticed the golem-like Figments were shooting ice shards upward, likely attacking his comrades overhead.

�gCan�ft have that! Hut hut hut heyaa!�h (Roel)

He decided to make those his primary target. Utilizing a cat-folk warrior�fs natural agility, he deftly slipped
through the barrage of incoming attacks unscathed, moving through the violent crowd as if he was dancing. His
highly trained reflexes and spacial awareness made it seem like attacks were missing him all on their own as he
began smashing the spider-like targets apart.

Every movement of his covered his enemy in wounds. Tendons, hearts and joints were targeted with pinpoint
accuracy as he made his way through the sea of monsters. This was the true essence of his Formless Flowing
Sword - an unceasing barrage of consecutive strikes that drowned his opponents in a sea of stab wounds. A graceful
yet gruesome onslaught.
�g ------- [High Wind Blade]�h (Ariel)

Ariel had moved to support the ground team, sending out invisible vacuum blades to cut apart the defenseless
monsters. While a [Sage] was proficient in every major school of magic, they each had their own preference.
Ariel�fs was wind magic, a rather obvious choice when dealing with a group of soft targets like the wolves and
trolls she just sliced neatly in half.

�g ---- [High Fireball]�h (Ariel)

This time she threw a [Fireball] at a group of Figments that were attempting to shoot her down with their
projectiles. It impacted into a group of eight of them, instantly enveloping the lumps of moving ice in flames and
melting them down to nothing.

Roel marvelled at how she managed to cast spells and maintain her [Song of Courage] at the same time. She
perfectly timed the gaps in the song with the spell chants that laid waste to the enemy. The odd combination
of beautiful tones and magical carnage was a captivating sight that almost stole his breath away. It was a display of
magical prowess that made Ellie acknowledge Ariel�fs skill as a mage - someone worthy of sharing the same
title as Kira. This was one of the highest forms of praise that girl would ever give.

As for the reason Ariel was down here focusing on offense - she simply had nothing better to do than help mop up
the fodder on the ground. Scrappy was indestructible, Zublos regenerated by himself and Roel simply didn�ft get
hit. As per usual, her healing magic did not get a chance to shine. And while she could also assist with the air battle,
it seemed that side would easily be the first to finish.

�gLook out below!�h (Brand)

*KASPLAT*

Roel briskly rolled to the side, barely avoiding the bloodied carcass of a Northern Roc that landed next to him with
an unpleasant sound. Brand and Shull were both veteran fighters and this was their third kill of the day. They both
had a lot of experience fighting Rocs from Brand�fs pre-Legion days. The only concern on their minds was
whether they�fd be able to bring all of that tender meat back home.

�gOn our left!�h (Brand)

�gKuwaa!�h (Shull)

Reacting to Brand�fs warning, Shull suddenly surged forward as a massive beak zoomed behind him. Rocs were
bigger, tougher and could fly faster than gryphons. However, they were completely outclassed in the agility and
brain power departments. Shull immediately gave chase to the Roc he just dodged. Just as it was about to swing
around for another charge, he caught up to it and tackled the larger opponent from the side.

�gKWAAARG!�h (Shull)

�gKEEAAAAAAAAA!�h (Northern Roc)

Two sets of talons and two sets of claws dug into the Roc�fs right flank. The giant bird-like monster shook its body
in an attempt to throw Shull off, but the gryphon clung close to him like a leech. The two of them started falling
towards the ground while struggling, neither able to flap their wings as needed.

�gGood work, partner! HIIYA!�h (Brand)

Confirming that Shull was firmly gripping onto the Roc, Brand thrust a spear into it with all his strength. It drove
deep into the flesh, causing yells of pain to come out of his helpless prey. Once he was sure he made a good wound,
he withdrew it and struck again, repeating the attack a few more times. Shull also assisted by pecking away fiercely
with his steel-tipped beak.

�gNext!�h (Brand)

�gKwa!�h (Shull)

Shull detached himself from the now heavily wounded Roc and sought out the next target. The one they just left
would either collapse from blood loss or retreat to recover. Regardless of its choice, it was already a win for Shull
and Brand. In rare cases it would find the strength to challenge them again, but all that meant was that it would die
for sure. Glancing behind him to see it crash magnificently into a cliff made of ice, Brand concluded he had killed
his fourth Roc today, along with the two he already forced to retreat.

Two of the 21 Rocs were taken out by Kelly and Zublos. Six more were downed by Brand and Shull. One was sliced
cleanly in half by Ariel. That means there were 12 more unaccounted for. Looking around him, however, he only
spotted three more still in the air. Brand hated to admit it, but Ellie and Puff made a much scarier combination than
he and Shull could ever be.

While Puff lacked the experience to cling onto bigger enemies like Shull did, it simply wasn�ft necessary. He
would fly next to the cold-adapted birds and introduce them to the miracle of fire. At least three of the Northern
Rocs were felled by his flames alone while two more were forced to dive into the snow to put out the flames.

They then met a red blur that screamed something about WHO DARES CHALLENGE THE MIGHTY
ZUBLOS while it cut the still flaming bird into ribbons. All that was left in the blur�fs wake was a jumbo-sized
serving of grilled Roc Salad. Truly a dish made by a masterful chef!

Last, but by no means least was Ellie. This girl blew an Elder Dragon out of the sky. Something like Rocs stood no
chance against her. Some would argue she didn�ft even need a gryphon.

She stood up on Puff�fs back like he was a flying carpet and took aim at a passing Roc.

*Fwump* *Stab* *Vrrrr*

With practiced ease, she latched onto the flying target�fs neck with her grapple hook and reeled herself in.

*SHWING*

Using her momentum to add force behind her sword strike she cleaved right through flesh and bone. The Roc in
question was nearly beheaded as she zoomed past it. In the mean time, Puff flew under her and effortlessly caught
her on his back. Gingerly strapping herself in place, Ellie spoke to her eye in the sky.

�gNano, status report.�h (Ellie)

{Two more Rocs left. No, make that one, Brand has the other. They�fre still busy on the ground, but about 80% of
the horde has been wiped out.}

Noticing the final Roc beating a hasty retreat, Ellie decided it would not be allowed to live. Loose ends like that
always come back to bite you in the ass. However, Rocs could fly faster than most gryphons. While Puff was clearly
able to catch up, it would take too much time. So Ellie idly reached down to her left hip and unholstered the second
birthday gift she gave her wife - the PLR-45 Sidearm. It already claimed the lives of two unfortunate birds, so one
more would not make much of a difference.
�gPuff, firing stance.�h (Ellie)

�gKwaa!�h (Puff)

Puff went into a glide to avoid shaking his body and disturbing Ellie while she lined up the shot. She clicked a
button on the side of the firearm with her thumb.

*Zuuu zuuu zu zuzuzuzurrrrrr*

It made a spooling noise as it super-charged the next shot over several seconds. Noting the 'Fully-charged'
indicator, Ellie kept her target in her sights and gently squeezed the trigger.

*PACHEWW*

The sidearm kicked back fiercely as it discharged a pale blue plasma bolt at a speed approaching Mach-4. It
accurately struck the Roc-turned-chicken right in the exhaust port, melting a hole all the way through its body and
exiting through its head.

*Beepbeepbeepbeepbeep*

A warning noise came out as a small red light flashed just above the handle of the plasma gun, signifying its heat
sink had been filled to capacity. Ellie pulled back the barrel of the side arm with her free hand, which revealed the
normally hidden heat vents. Steam blasted out of the six oval-shaped holes while the cold outside air rapidly cooled
the insides.

Giving the PLR-45 Sidearm a few good spins on her finger, Ellie holstered it back in its place as the half-melted
Northern Roc made impact with the ground.

�gIt looks like�c his goose is cooked.�h (Ellie)

{Five out of ten.}

�gKraa...�h (Puff)

�gTch.�h (Ellie)

I went and wrote a side story as an experiment. But the tone turned out much darker than I was expecting. I don't
want to post it as an actual chapter, but it would be a shame if it just rotted away in my archive.

So I'll just leave it here for those interested in having a good cry.
Spoiler : Show
Chapter 117 - Going insane is not a solution to life's problems - it is an
escape - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�g170.�h (Kelly)

ZUBLOS HAS SLAUGHTERED MILLIONS

�gYou what, mate?�h (Kelly)

�gI think he means he got more than you.�h (Roel)

�gOh ho hoh! Okay then! Nano, how many did each of us get?�h (Kelly)

�gDo you honestly think I have nothing better to do than tally up your kills?�h (Nano/Armory)

�gYes.�h (Kelly)

�gYep.�h (Brand)

�gMaster Nano is unparalleled in parallel focus and has surely accomplished such a trivial task!�h (Ariel)

�g... Zublos got 232, Kelly got 164 and Roel got 178.�h (Nano/Armory)

�gAaargh! I�fm in last plaaace!�h (Kelly)

�gAlso, you tried to cheat.�h (Roel)

�gNo such thing! It�fs just hard, uh, to tell with those trolls that get can back up despite having a crushed
skull�c�h (Kelly)

�gPretty sure it was just your seeing double that threw the count off.�h (Brand)

�gStill, Zublos won as expected. That unstoppable charge is well suited to fighting large groups like that.�h
(Roel)

NONE MAY STAND BEFORE THE TERRIBLE MIGHT OF ZUBLOS

�gWill you three shut up already!?�h (Ellie)

They�fve been going on about this scoring thing for a while now, it�fs really starting to annoy me.

I want Kira to get better soon so I don�ft have to deal with this!

Ah, but this is the sort of thing she deals with all the time, huh?

Hmmm�c

Okay, I�fll just think of it like sharing the burden of leadership with her!

This much is to be expected.

Since I�fm the wife.

�gIncidentally, Ellie got 56, Brand - 29 and Ariel - 52.�h (Nano/Armory)

Yes, I managed to beat Ariel!

No, I mean, who cares about that sort of thing!?

�gThis one has firmly been shown where she belongs! This one is in awe of her Mistress�fs prowess!�h (Ariel)

I�fm not happy over such a trivial thing, okay!?

�gEllie, you seem awfully happ-�h (Kelly)

�gShut it! We still have a titan to find!�h (Ellie)

...

�gEllie! I think I see it!�h (Roel)

Oh please let it be so!

We�fve only been in this cave for a few minutes, but I already want to go home!

�gWhere?�h (Ellie)

I miss Kira!

I should be by her side, not down here in this icy cave!

�gThere, something moving around!�h (Roel)

Roel points to a side passage.

�gPrepare for battle! Ariel, light it up!�h (Ellie)

�gYes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

Ariel guides her floating light orb into the tunnel in question, and I can hear slight scraping noises coming from it.

There�fs definitely something moving around in there.

We approach cautiously while I focus on my sight and hearing.

�gUuuuu�c�h (Tiny Voice)

�gThere!�h (Ellie)

I spot a blonde head of hair trying to hide behind a rock!

�gKyaaa! NOOOO!�h (Yellow Skittle)

Ah, she skittered away with a scream!

�gAfter her!�h (Ellie)

We give chase, but she almost immediately runs into a dead end.

It�fs not a particularly deep cave.

We surround her to cut off her escape route and close in from all sides.

�gG-g-go away! P-p-p-please?�h (Yellow Skittle)

I finally get a good look at her since she�fs curling up into a small ball on the floor.

She�fs trying to hide her head, so I can�ft make out her face.

However, I can see multiple pairs of completely red eyes peeking out between her fingers.

Her upper body is the shape of a little girl with long blonde hair and frail-looking arms.

It�fs connected to a bulbous spider�fs abdomen at the hips.

Eight smooth-looking slender legs poke out from under her.

Her abdomen and legs are a bright yellow color, it matches her hair perfectly.

Her skin, on the other hand, is really pale - almost whiter than the snow outside.

Also, she�fs quite tall, probably taller than Zublos if she were to stand up properly.

The upper body in particular looks like it belongs to someone who�fs over two meters in height, despite looking
like a young kid.

I almost mistook it for an effeminate young boy since the chest was completely flat.

But a certain place that�fs on full display immediately clears up all doubts regarding her gender.

�gW-w-why is she nude?�h (Roel)

This is going to be really awkward, huh?

�gTitans normally don�ft wear clothes. I expected this much, to be honest.�h (Brand)

�gDraglael wore clothes though?�h (Roel)

�gThose clothes are part of her steel shell so technically-�h (Brand)

�gNOO! Don�ft stare at me like thaaat! LEAVE ME ALONE ALREADYY!�h (Yellow Skittle)

Even her screaming voice sounds young, maybe around Lara�fs age?

It almost makes me feel bad, like we�fre doing bullying her.

Almost.
�gLet�fs get this over with.�h (Ellie)

I walk towards the quivering titan and put a hand on her bare shoulder.

�gNOOO-�h (Yellow Skittle)

Her scream stops abruptly and she collapses while convulsing.

Now her skin is crawling and her body is making strange noises.

*SNAP*

Okay, she can shape-shift.

Draglael did not mention that part.

Come to think of it, she didn�ft mention her abdomen would be the same color as her hair, either.

Thanks for the comprehensive intel, Draglael!

I�fll stab her later as punishment.

*SNAP*

The spider-girl�fs body is rapidly changing before my eyes.

Spines start growing out of her back, shoulders and elbows.

*CRACK*

Fingers extend into sharp claws and legs become longer, pointier.

*RRRRIP*

Two additional arms sprout from behind her shoulders and brown chitin starts growing from her skin.

Oh, that�fs bad.

The brown is spreading to her abdomen and hair like ink on paper!

�gFeral Brown! Outside, get outside now!�h (Ellie)

If we fight in this tight space she�fll ensnare us in no time flat!

Our group starts running for the exit, but it looks like Ariel might fall behind.

�gZublos, grab Ariel and carry her outside!�h (Ellie)

INSOLENT WHELP!

Despite his words, he still obediently grabs her and throws her onto his shoulder like a rolled up carpet.

�gThis one is not some, mmmm, piece of luggage you can, hnnng, manhandle as you wish! Yaahn!�h (Ariel)
Now that the perverted bird no longer slowing us down we can pick up the pace!

�gShashashasha!�h (Brown Skittle)

The weird sound behind us probably means her transformation is complete!

I can hear the sound of many pairs of legs following us!

Seems she�fs as aggressive as expected!

�gExit up ahead!�h (Roel)

�gSpread out once we make it outside! Ariel and Armory are to fly upwards and out of her range ASAP!�h (Ellie)

I remind them of the formation we agreed on as we make our way into the light!

Once we�fre all outside, we all take our positions around the cave entrance as the skittering footsteps draw closer
to us.

�gSKREEEEEEE!�h (Brown Skittle)

The Feral Brown titan bursts into the weak sunlight with a high-pitched roar!

The frightened kid from before is completely gone.

In her place is a monstrous creature that�fs more spider than human.

Even her mouth was replaced by spider-like jaws!

�gShaaa!�h (Brown Skittle)

She extends her four arms and webbing flies out, forming a net in an instant!

�gGah!�h (Brand)

�gH-How careless!�h (Roel)

Brand and Roel got caught and wrapped up in an instant!

�gAriel, burn it!�h (Ellie)

�g-- [Firebolt]�h (Ariel)

The semi-solid ball of flame hits Brand squarely in the back, but it doesn�ft hurt him since it landed on his heavy
armor.

The spider thread, on the other hand, catches fire and burns up in an instant like a flash fuse.

Roel and Brand suffered some singed eyebrows, but they�fre unharmed.

Good, if it�fs only at that level we can defeat the spider webs!

�gHeeya!�h (Kelly)
�gSKraaa!�h (Brown Skittle)

Kelly rammed straight into its side while it was busy with the nets, knocking it off balance!

I�fll take this opportunity to land a few attacks of my own!

Gripping the PLR-45 Sidearm, I switch it to semi-automatic mode and take aim!

*Pachew pachew pachew*

�gSKRAEAAEG!�h (Brown Skittle)

She takes three bolts of plasma to the face and recoils with a scream.

Judging from how the upper half of her face is partially melted, she won�ft be able to see for a while!

�gNow! While she�fs distracted!�h (Ellie)

We take this chance to surround her on five sides.

We�fve already planned ahead in accordance with Draglael�fs rather dubious intel.

Let�fs see if it works before we move onto Plan B!

SUFFER THE WRATH OF ZUBLOS

Zublos cuts her abdomen open with a gigantic swing of his needlessly huge sword.

�gSHHRIIIEEE!!�h (Brown Skittle)

She turns around reflexively only to have Roel slice through two of her hind legs.

"SHEERAA!" (Brown Skittle)

�gRRRAH!�h (Brand)

Brand follows up immediately by choppingoff a leg on the other side with his one-handed axe.

"KRASHAASAAA!" (Brown Skittle)

Looks like it�fs my turn!

*SHLUP*

I leap in and stab my sword through her back using my right arm while holding onto my pistol with the left one.

�gKEH! KEHOK!�h (Brown Skittle)

Good, seems like she has lungs right where I thought she would!

She�fs thrashing around trying to shake me off, but I hold on tight and put the PLR-45 Sidearm to the back of her
head!
*Pachew pachew pachew pachew*

�gKEHRAA!�h (Brown Skittle)

She manages to swing one of her claw-tipped hands at me, so I jump off her back to dodge it.

I left my blade is lodged in her lung, but it seems to have been was a wasted effort.

It's slowly being pushed out as her wound starts to regenerate.

Her face has completely recovered and a leg has grown back!

�gNano! Sword!�h (Ellie)

The Armory launches a replacement blade at me and I catch it with my Telekinesis.

I see Zublos and Kelly are already attacking from the sides, while Roel is preparing for a follow-up assault from
behind.

Yes, this is the way!

Keep hurting it from all sides without letting it counter-attack!

It may be big and fast, but it�fs too dumb to realize it�fs being toyed with.

We don�ft have to kill it, just keep hurting it until the Feral Brown disappears!

* **

�g ----- [High Thunder]�h (Ariel)

*Krakoooom*

The lightning bolt accurately hits the sword that�fs sticking out of the top of her skull!

�gSKREEEEAAAAAAaaaa�c�h (Brown Skittle)

It screams loudly and collapses with thin trails of smoke coming out of its upper body.

It finally stopped moving after an hour-long slugfest!

Just like with the Elder Dragon, this lightning rod combination is extremely effective!

�gHold!�h (Ellie)

We warily rebuild our encirclement of the slightly-twitching titan�fs body.

Regenerating monsters are a pain to fight, but this one was on a whole different level.

Cuts and burns would heal themselves in seconds, just like with Draglael.

Not to mention that seemingly limitless stamina!

Still, it looks like we succeeded.

The brown one is too stupid to do something like play dead.

�gStand down.�h (Ellie)

�gHaah, haah, I don�ft think, haah, I could have, haah, kept going, haah.�h (Roel)

�gHuff, huff, huff, blasted, huff, spider!�h (Kelly)

Most of us are exhausted, only Zublos appears to be perfectly fine.

I don�ft think we can kill it for good without something like a tactical nuke.

Unfortunately, Kira�fs WMD-like magic isn�ft available and Ariel can�ft bring out that much mana at once.

I have the mana capacity, but without [Unity] I can�ft control big spells like that at all.

Not to mention my mana is Kira�fs lifeline!

Wasting it on some crazy spider lady is unforgivable!

On the other hand, I used up all my cartridges for the PLR-45 Sidearm.

Even a fully charged shot took about 20 seconds to close up without a trace, but it was a good way to keep her off-
balance.

We can�ft manufacture ammo for it, but we have about 400 cartridges in stock.

That much should last us for quite a while.

*Crack*

However, we don�ft exactly have time to relax just yet!

The titan�fs body is starting to convulse and shake violently!

�gOn your guard! Next one is coming!�h (Ellie)

If we see Raging Red, we have to run away immediately.

We�fre in no condition to fight it, not to mention Draglael says it�fs much stronger than Feral Brown.

I�fd say pulling Red would be just about the worst case scenario.

*CRRACK* *SNAP*

The extra arms disappear and her chitin peels off to reveal slightly tanned skin.

The various spines fall off and slightly curly hair rapidly grows out of her scalp, stopping at about shoulder-length.

The hair and abdomen slowly turn into a bright orange.

�gStand down!�h (Ellie)

�gOh thank the Steelmother! Haah, haah. I thought I was going to pass out!�h (Brand)

�gAriel, can you make it back to the tower?�h (Ellie)

�gFuuu, fuuu. This one is uncertain Mistress. Fuuu. This one�fs mana is nearly depleted.�h (Ariel)

Ariel had to work hard with her [Antidote] spell since the brown one kept spitting toxins at us.

We do have stimpacks that could handle that, but they�fre for emergencies.

Nano only has 20 of them left, so we need to be careful with our usage.

Maybe I should ask Picorio about a way to replicate them through alchemy.

I wonder if directly injecting healing potion into the bloodstream will be effective?

Questions for later.

�gNano, send the gryphons to pick us up.�h (Ellie)

We�fll catch our death of cold if we stand around while drenched in sweat like this, so we�fre retreating.

The orange one is a docile personality, meaning we don�ft have to worry about her attacking us.

Draglael claims it takes months for Skittles to switch colors on her own.

That�fs why we have to go through all this trouble in the first place.

Titans might be fine with waiting for decades, but Kira might not survive that long!

�gHeya!�h (Orange Skittle)

Gah!

She�fs already up and waving a hand in our direction!

Her face had settled into one with slightly puffed out cheeks and freckles.

The four pairs of eyes are still a bright solid red with no pupils though.

If she had regular eyes, she might be a bit cute, but she�fs just plain creepy like this.

Also it�fs unrelated, but her chest has grown from completely flat to about my size�c

�gThanks for earlier! You guys really whooped that mean brownie good! It was really fun watching her get put in
her place for once!�h (Orange Skittle)

She�fs way too hyper!

�gUm�c you�fre�c welcome?�h (Ellie)

Her words flow at such a high speed that I barely understood what she said after �ethanks�f!
It�fs like an even more intense version of that waitress, it�fs a bit terrifying!

�gRight! Let�fs go play! Right now! Let�fs go! Let�fs goo! I know the perfect game, too! It�fs a great game
where we pass this ball of thread around!�h (Orange Skittle)

�gSorry. We really need to go and rest, we�fll be back tomorrow, okay?�h (Ellie)

Her over-excited smile instantly drops into a frown.

�g... Promise?�h (Orange Skittle)

�gYes, I promise.�h (Ellie)

And the frown is gone like it never even existed, even her face is hyper.

�gYaaay! Playing with others for a change is going to be so much fun! Way more fun than playing with my other
self! You know Brown keeps bullying me when we�fre asleep? What�fs up with that!?�h (Orange Skittle)

Okay she�fs hyper, but at least she�fs friendly.

Unfortunately, I don�ft think we can have her heal Kira and our baby.

Draglael claimed only the Original White personality can make full use of her titan�fs power, and I�fm inclined to
believe that.

If the brown or yellow one had that sort of ability, there�fs just no way we would be able to win.

�gEasy there. Maybe you should chill out a little?�h (Ellie)

�gHah! Hahahaha! Chill, I get it! Hahahaha! Fuuuu. Good one! You�fre pretty funny miss! Ah, right! I�fm
Skittles! Pleased to meet ya!�h (Orange Skittle)

No, I actually was serious and not trying to make a pun for once!

But, introducing ourselves seems like a good idea.

It appears that the different Skittles share memories to some extent so it�fs probably a good thing!

�gGood to meet you Skittles. I�fm Ellie. This is Brand, Zublos, Roel, Kelly-�h (Ellie)

I point out to the rest of our little expedition and they give a little nod as I call them out.

�gKYAAA! There it is! What is that!? That red thing that moves around like clack-a clack-a and then a thing
comes out of the hand?! And then there�fs a FWOOSH and it flies and CRUNCH it lands!�h (Orange Skittle)

Right, come to think of it, the orange one is supposed to relentlessly seek excitement like a little kid.

�gOh! I see you have a good eye, miss Skittles! This wonderful hunk of dwarven ingenuity before you is known as
Scrappy!�h (Kelly)

If we make her have so much fun that she has to �ego home and rest�f it will let another personality take over.

�gWoah! Scrappy, huh!? It�fs super cool, isn�ft it!? Can I get one!? Hey, hey, hey can I get one too?!�h
(Orange Skittle)
Scrappy might be unexpectedly useful here, but not right now.

Hypothermia aside, we also have to be in top physical condition should a violent one pop out again.

�gSorry, we need to rest first. We�fll play with you when we come back later, okay?�h (Ellie)

�gOkay! Be sure to keep your promise! You�fll keep your promise, right? If you don�ft then I�fll get mad and
my big red sis will come out to punish you!�h (Orange Skittle)

Ah, that�fs right!

The really dangerous Red one will come out on its own if she gets really angry with us!

It won�ft rest until she or us is pummeled to dust!

That�fs why we shouldn�ft do anything rash like attacking her unprovoked!

�gKwaa!�h (Puff)

Oh good, the gryphons are here.

We asked them to go back and rest before entering the cave since they worked hard for our sake earlier.

Even Fluffles had to tackle a random Northern Roc that flew in from somewhere.

It seems he picked up some pointers by watching Shull.

I�fll have to praise him for the hard work.

�gOhh! What are those!? Are those gryphons?! I�fve not seen them for myself! And the white one looks super
tough! And that armored one looks way cool! But the last one looks super fluffy! Can I pet them!? Can I?!�h
(Orange Skittle)

She�fs bouncing up and down excitedly, I can almost see sparkles in her eyes.

If she likes gryphons that much, then tomorrow might be easier than I expected!

Trivia time! When it came to naming this titan, I wanted to go with something clearly spider-like. 'Skittering Spider'
came to mind, then it became Skittles since it sounded cute. As a result, I scrapped her original creepy encounter and
morbid personality so that we can all taste the rainbow!
Not a chapter - Side Story plot contest! - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Just like the title says! Give me an interesting/funny idea for a side story and I'll arbitrarily pick one (or more) to
write about!
To enter, simply fill out your copy of the [ Non-Essential Plot Submission Form, Serial number BS-404] and
leave it here!
All fields are mandatory.

Submitter:

Title:

Characters involved:

Plot synopsis:

I never asked for this:

Chapter 118 - There is always some madness in love. But there is also
always some reason in madness. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Skittles PoV <

She better come back! She promised! It would be good if she came back! Those people looked like a lot of fun!
Especially that Scrappy thing! Shouldn't be that long until tomorrow, right!?

There's no tomorrow on the polar ice cap, dummy! The sun always lights up the sky! You got duped!

But! But They promised! They wouldn't lie to me like that, right!?

T-t-t-hey might! They were clearly suspicious! They killed all my pets and tried to hurt me!

Good. We deserve much worse for all the things we've done. So much sorrow, so much despair...

Zzzzzzzz...

Wow blue, you're such a downer. You need to liven up and live a little!

SKREEEEEEEE!

I'm with her! They're clearly suspicious! What was that blue stuff!? I've never seen anything like it!

Yeah! I hope they lied to you and ran away! I don't wanna see them ever again!

NUH-UH! They didn't lie! That cat-lady was telling the truth! I TRUSTED HER AND SHE PROMISED!

MAYBE I SHOULD JUST COME OUT AND PUNCH THEM INTO SOUP AFTER ALL, HUH!?

KEEP IT DOWN! I'm trying to sleep over here. Sheesh. Lousy loudmouths and their... *Grumble Grumble*
Zzzzzzz...

Ah, she has a point. We'll be in trouble if the boss wakes up. She's going to want to be in charge.

Yeah! It's my turn after orange's! I can't wait, they killed a lot of those Rocs that were buzzing around so they must
have grilled them, right?! Or is it soup... could it be Roc Pot Pie!? I can't wait to see what they brought with them!

Shasha? SKREEAAHOK! Sashashktktktk.

Haah... no, brown, I don't. Why would I digest my food BEFORE I eat it? It ruins half the fun!

It doesn't matter. We don't even need to eat anyway.

Is eating fun? Green always goes on and on about eating things, but is it really that fun!?

No, it's not 'fun' you dimwit! It's the absolute greatest thing in existence!

If it's not fun, then I don't care! I want to see more of Scrappy!

SHRUKUR! SHAA HAA HAA HAA!

Red! She's doing it again!

Zzzzzzzz...

I'M NOT GOING TO PUNCH MYSELF! WE'VE BEEN OVER THIS! LET ME OUT SO I CAN PUNCH THOSE
GUYS INSTEAD!

No! They're super nice! You know they stopped stabbing brownie the instant she had enough, right? They didn't try
to cut her open like those other mean people!

We deserved that too. That poor village... Red left nothing standing... We should just hide away deep underground
and weep for those poor souls...

THEY TRIED TO STAB THE BOSS! WE CAN'T BE HAVING ANY OF THAT AND YOU KNOW IT!

I'm with Red. Those troglodytes brought this onto themselves. They'd realize the folly of their actions if they had
any actual intelligence.

UWOOOH! I think that's them! Look! Look! It's a giant flying thing! Look at it go! Did the mortals make something
like this!? I want one!

Hoh-ho! Someone actually went and did it! Ground enchanted with the [Flight] spell! I wonder if they used a
traditional Magic Stone or a new-type one! Dibs on going after green!

WE AGREED IT WOULD BE MY TURN AFTER THAT GLUTTON! IF I DON'T GET TO PUNCH

SOMETHING SOON I MIGHT JUST GO INSANE!

Too late for shah.

GRRR! I SWEAR WHEN I GET OUT OF HERE I'M PUNCHING A MAGE, A KID, A CAKE AND ONE OF
OUR KIN! IN THAT ORDER!

Zzzzzzzz...

You know full well there's no point to any of that squabbling. The chains make that clear...

If only the [Chains That Bind] existed back then... Maybe then the boss wouldn't be like this...

Huh? Chains? What's that? Is it tasty!?

"We're back, Skittles." (Ellie)

WAAH! She's baack! NOOO! *SLAM*

... How did she slam a door in here?

"Welcome back Ellie! I'm happy to see you again! Did you bring the gryphons?! What about Scrappy!?" (Orange
Skittle)

I wonder if gryphons taste good... They have three so it's okay if I eat one, right?! Or maybe half...

Eating is pointless though.

"We've prepared something very special for you. Look, they're coming in now!" (Ellie)
Ohh! She's pointing upwards! Look! Look! It's the white one! The tough looking white one! The thing called
Scrappy is on its back! They did a loop and a spin and a nose dive and-

"KUWEAAAAA!" (Puff)

Look at him spread his wiiings! It's so cooool!

Wait, what's that weird stick of metal he's holding?

"I present you to the invincible combination of Scrappy and Puff the Magic Gryphon!" (Ellie)

"---- [Star Sword]" (Kelly)

*SHWOOM*

"Huuu-KUHAAAH!" (Puff)

*FWOOOOSH*

WAAAAAHAHAAA! THERE'S A MAGIC GLOWING SWORD OF LIGHT AND A PLUME OF BRILLIANT

BLUE FLAME AND ITS SPREADING ITS WINGS AND SQUUUUEEEEEEEee-

*THUD*

*THUD*

...

Zzzzzzzz...

Welp. We're officially out cold.

It would be best if we never woke up.

I agree. Waking up would be pointless.

Shah? Shiahaaah? Sktktktk.

No... I don't know why that Ellie girl fainted too.

*Crrreak* Are they gone? NOOO! THEY GOT ORANGE! SAVE MEEE! *SLAM*

Anyway! My turn.

What's all the commotion in here?!

Oh crap.

Why is there someone collapsed in the snow?! Red! Did you hurt another poor soul for no reason?

NO, BOSS! I HAVEN'T EVEN HAD A TURN YET! BROWN TRIED TO THOUGH! SHE TRIED TO EAT HER
AND HER FRIENDS!
SHAH!? Shakakaka!

What did I say, brown!? You were only supposed to hunt monsters!

Skreeea! Krriiikkik!

No, yellow gets scared of her own shadow, she can't be trusted with that sort of decision! Red's the one that deals
with people trying to hurt us, remember?

Sheeshaaa...

Okay that's it! You're grounded! No more getting out for the next 500 years!

Shaak!

Purple, what's been going on around here?

Hey boss... Um... That girl and her friends came here, broke all of yellow's pets and tried to approach her. Then
brown came out so they had to defend themselves. Then orange came out, they went to rest, came back with some
incomprehensible magic gryphon armor and sword thing and orange fainted from over-excitement. So here we are.

Then why is that girl on the ground too?

No idea.

"Wah! No good... that was dangerous." (Ellie)

Ah she's back up. Oh, what's this!? Oh! Oh ho ho ho! Well how about that! If it isn't another one of those
people from beyond the stars!

Zzzzzzzz...

Really?! I wonder if this one brought some exotic dishes like the last one!

Nope. No chance, green. I'm taking over, boss's orders. I want to talk to this girl.

Aww! But boss!

"Hmm? Hey, Skittles are you okay!? Kelly, how long was I out?" (Ellie)

"About a minute. It hasn't moved since we made our grand entrance." (Kelly)

"Kweaa." (Puff)

Okay, tell you what, I'll ask for some delicious treats while I'm out there so she'll get them ready for you in advance.
Deal?

Deal!

Then, excuse me.

*SNAP*

Hooh... that was close. I got so excited I think I saw a white light...
Shush! Boss is here! She's taking charge!

*CRACK*

Oops! Sorry boss...

Zzzzzzzz...

Ah there we go! It feels good to move around after so long.

"Ahem. Allow me to apologize on behalf of brown. She was naughty so she was grounded." (Skittles)

Yes! Serves her right! I told her you know!?

Orange...

... Sorry.

"Y-you're the original one, right? The white one that can create s-souls?" (Ellie)

"Oh? It seems like you've heard of me." (Skittles)

"Yes! That is, another titan told me about you!" (Ellie)

No wonder she was so well informed. Normally people don't know how to react to orange or yellow.

Zzzzzzzz...

Okay that snoring is getting annoying... ah but I don't want to disturb her... okay, I'll put up with it.

"Ah, this is Kelly and Puff." (Ellie)

"Heya." (Kelly)

"Kaaw!" (Puff)

"A pleasure to meet you all. Now then, what is it you need of me?" (Skittles)

She came all the way out here, probably risked a lot doing it. She seems like a good kid so it must be something
important.

"My... my wife needs your help." (Ellie)

"... I'm sorry, your wife?" (Skittles)

"Yes. We're married. Almost a year, actually." (Ellie)

Okay. That's a bit crazy. Yes, yes, I know, you can stop giggling behind my back.

Sorry boss.

"And what could be wrong with your wife that you need a titan's help? It's not some simple illness, is it?" (Skittles)
"Uhm. That is... we... she's pregnant with my child." (Ellie)

*THUD* *THUD* *THUD*

OH WOW! A THREE HIT COMBO!

"Oh! My apologies. I thought you were a woman." (Skittles)

That was close! It was bad of me to judge that sort of thing based on his appearance. The heavy coat hides his frame
and I can't see his face behind that mask. Even if the hair and voice are effeminate, there's no reason to-

"I AM a woman." (Ellie)

"... Excuse me?" (Skittles)

"I said I'm a woman. So is my wife." (Ellie)

"And you had a kid. With each other." (Skittles)

"Yes." (Ellie)

"She didn't..." (Skittles)

"No." (Ellie)

"You're sure?" (Skittles)

"Oh for- Are you going to help Kira or not!? Both the child and her are suffering right now!" (Ellie)

"Sorry, it's just... hard to believe... Why do you need my help, exactly?" (Skittles)

"The child doesn't have a soul!" (Ellie)

How can that be!? The souls of the parents should be able to produce a third one all on their own! Then Khamis's
mana is supposed to immediately bind it to the vessel! If it really doesn't have a soul... Okay, this seems to
be incredibly complicated, so let's just check it the quick and easy way.

"Tell you what. If you let me see your memories for the details, I might be able to help you." (Skittles)

"... You can do that sort of thing?" (Ellie)

"Of course. I can peer into the memories etched on your soul to discern the truth of things." (Skittles)

Well, it's not as accurate as real memories since it's heavily influenced by the person's emotions at the time, but it
should prove to be enough.

Zzzzzzzz...

"It won't hurt or anything, right?" (Ellie)

"No. I am merely looking." (Skittles)

"And you won't do something weird while you're in my head, right?" (Ellie)
"Tampering with a soul already linked to a vessel is against my policy. Besides, if I really wanted to hurt you I
would just let the Red me take over." (Skittles)

She puts a hand on her chin and thinks things through. If she knows about me, there's no way she doesn't know how
dangerous Red can be once she gets out.

YEAH! LET ME AT THEM! I'LL TEACH THEM TO MESS WITH ME!

Zzzzzz...

They didn't actually mess with you though.

GEH! YOU HAVE A POINT...

"Alright." (Ellie)

"You sure about this, Ellie?" (Kelly)

"No. But we don't have much of a choice. What do I need to do?" (Ellie)

"Oh! Came to a decision did we? It's okay, just stand still for a moment." (Skittles)

I walk up to her and gently put a hand on her head.

"I'm warning you. Hands off the ears. Touch them and you lose an arm." (Ellie)

BOOOSSS! THEM'S FIGHTING WORDS!

Quiet you! She has a point! Khamis's lot get itchy down there if you scratch them up there. Sounds like it's the same
for this girl.

"I understand. I will respect your wishes. Now then, I will begin." (Skittles)

Peer into it. Find the essence....

...

Kuh, these foreign souls are always tougher than they look. I can't force it or I might rip it out. The binding is also
pretty weird, but it's stronger than usual so it's not a bad thing.

"Okay. Now, I want you to think about your wife. Walk me through the moments you shared together, up to now."
(Skittles)

I need to understand absolutely everything about these two. If they truly did conceive a child, I have to know even
the smallest detail if I am to be of any help.

"..." (Ellie)

Okay! There we go. Uhuh. She landed here. Then... she jumped heads? Ah, soul resonance. It's a miracle they
survived. Oh, wow she proposed without knowing! And this Kira girl accepted! How romantic! Then they spent
their days leisurely... oh thief attack! Ah, but that worked out. This girl really treasures her wife, huh?

Oh, this is a big one.... Oh my. Oh my! Oh wow you can DO that!? I had no idea! Wait, just from her- OH MY!
Okay... that was intense... and they keep going... then Urk! So much pain! Gah, that surprised me... Then a beautiful
wedding...

Adopted two unfortunate children! How noble of them. I knew she was a good kid! Hmm? Oh! They successfully
recreated the soul resonance they experienced on that first day! To bring such a phenomenon out at will, not to
mention control it! These two truly are exceptional!

I should introduce purple to them later!

That should be good enough for now. I don't want to read through more of her past than I need to. This [Unity] of
theirs is undoubtedly the culprit, but that alone doesn't seem to have been enough.

"Okay, Ellie. Fuuu. Now, do you know when it was that she got pregnant?" (Skittles)

"Yes. It was the first day of the year." (Ellie)

Even if it was during Enuri's shift, then it shouldn't cause something like pregnancy. There's something else. Is she
not telling me or did it escape her notice?

"I want you to focus on that day, haah. Think deeply about every single detail, every, haah, sensation." (Skittles)

Huh... Why am I out of breath for no reason? Must not be used to having my body back quite yet.

"Okay..." (Ellie)

...

UHH BOSS! I THINK YOU'RE DOING THAT THING AGAIN!

Oh no! Not another one! Now I'll never get my turn!

Doesn't matter how many she brings out though.

> Ellie POV <

"Kuh... KUHAAAAHA!" (Skittles)

*THUD*

Okay, that just happened.

"Ellie? What did you do?" (Kelly)

"Nothing? She just recoiled and collapsed on her own..." (Ellie)

"Maybe you scared off the white one with some weird thought?" (Kelly)

There was nothing weird about that day, though...

*SNAP*

"Yep, she's changing again." (Kelly)

"Let's see what comes out! Puff, get ready to depart at a moment's notice." (Ellie)
"Kwak!" (Puff)

*SNAP*

Her chest is expanding... it's actually becoming the biggest one yet...

The pale white skin is changing color and the long straight hair is becoming... reddish?

"That's red, isn't it?! Ellie we gotta go!" (Kelly)

"No, wait... it's something else..." (Ellie)

It's not the deep blood-like red that Draglael warned us about, but this color wasn't in the briefing!

Actually that body shape seems a bit...

...

Please no.

"Aaaah! That's better..." (Skittles)

I want to run, but my feet won't move!

"... K-kelly?" (Ellie)

"Nuh uh. No way. This is all on you. Come on, Puff, we should give them some space..." (Kelly)

"Kwaaaa!" (Puff)

"Nooo come back here! Don't leave me with her!" (Ellie)

{Sorry, Ellie. I'm with her. No matter how I look at it, it's clearly your responsibility.}

Et tu, Nano?!

{I think it's obvious what needs to happen. I'll bring you your tools.}

"But, but!" (Ellie)

{I'll explain it to her on your behalf, so don't worry.}

"... Ask for permission, too, okay?" (Ellie)

{Of course.}

I hope Nano can make sense of this, because I certainly can't.

Right now, the Skittles in front of me is in some ways much worse than the dreaded Raging Red.

"Fufufufu, hello there Ellie ~?!" (Pink Skittle)

If you ignore the pink hair and spider eyes, the face and body are an exact replica of Kira's.
"Want to come give Skittles a biiig kiiiss ~??!" (Pink Skittle)

*SHLICK SHLICK*

And her hands are focusing on a very particular part of it.

Chapter 119 - Having the high ground, moral or otherwise, is a definitive
advantage - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gI�fm sorry, I can�ft do this after all!�h (Ellie)

It�fs absurd!

How could I ever do something like that with someone who isn�ft Kira!?

I�fd be a complete failure as her wife!

�gAww, sweetie ~?! Don�ft worry about it, I completely understand!�h (Pink Skittle)

No, no you don�ft, fake Kira.

*SHLICK SHLICK*

You�fre still doing THAT down below, so your words are clearly unconvincing.

�gIf you truly understand, then bring out the Original White so she can heal my wife!�h (Ellie)

�gSorry, but no can do! It�fs my turn with the body so I�fm not giving it back until I�fm satisfied ~?!�h (Pink
Skittle)

Yep, she completely doesn�ft understand.

Just like her hair, her head is equally filled with nothing but pink.

She obviously wants me to mate with her, but I don�ft �emate.�f

I make love.

For me, it's a sacred act filled with all of my feelings and passion for my wife!

And this floozy is not my wife!

�gCome now, you can at least give me a hug, yes? Just. Like. THIS!�h (Pink Skittle)

*GLOMP*

Geh!

I was embraced since my body still refuses to listen to me properly!

She completely wrapped me up in the valley of her cleavage!

The proportions are perfectly the same, but the larger overall size means those are much bigger as well!

�c
I see, this is why I was paralyzed with indecision.

My body had completely recognized her as being Kira.

The chest, the skin, the chest, the hips, the chest, the belly button, the chest, the waist, the chest, the collar bone and
the chest.

It was all the same sublime perfection as my most beloved.

A form I had not dared to embrace for two weeks out of worry.

�gHhnng!�h (Ellie)

Even if my mind recognized this one as a farce and a sick joke, the rest of me did not think so!

I can�ft muster up any strength to wrestle free from this warm embrace�c

�gFufufu, there we go ~?! This is nice ~?! Doesn�ft it make you want to completely give in ~??�h (Pink Skittle)

My body is clearly saying it wants to do it.

My reason is telling me this is a necessary sacrifice.

My heart on the other hand, is screaming louder than both of those that this is wrong!

�gNo! Let me go! Don�ft besmirch my wife�fs figure like this!�h (Ellie)

�gNo can do ~?! I�fm quite selfish you know ~?!�h (Pink Skittle)

Why does that part have to be the same, too!?

But no matter how much she tries, this imitation is nothing like my Kira!

Even if she is selfish, she will put those feelings aside for my sake!

Not to mention, she faithfully remembers every promise I made!

And she thoroughly knows I will adhere to my promises, no matter what!

Something this fake is about to find out!

*Scritch*

*SLICE*

�gGYAAAHAAAAHAA!�h (Pink Skittle)

Good, I managed to summon up enough strength to move my arm!

Hers, on the other hand, is flying through the air.

I did warn her that would happen if she dared to touch my ears.

�gAAH! ARRGH! RAAAAAAAAAARGH!�h (Skittles)

Well, that was obviously going to happen.

Unlike the other transformations, this one was almost instantaneous.

That perfect body expanded into an impossibly muscular frame that looked more at home on an orc than a human.

The pink hair fell out and short, spiky hair replaced it.

The beautiful face warped into a wide and ugly one that rivaled Zublos�fs in how bad it looked.

Her eight legs and abdomen bulged with power, becoming almost twice as thick.

And the pink parts of her body turned into a blood-like red, completing the transformation.

No, it�fs more accurate to say that the Raging Red one exploded outwards from the former pink.

�gSKITTLES SMASH!�h (Red Skittle)

She swung a massive arm downwards at me, so I dodged to the side with all haste!

*CRASH*

The ground shook and a small crater was formed on the spot!

Draglael wasn�ft kidding when she said �epunch into soup,�f I don�ft think even Scrappy can take that sort of
impact!

She turned around and leapt at me!

�gRAARGH!�h (Red Skittle)

*SMASH*

Still, as I suspected, Draglael�fs intel was incomplete - a worrying trend that had appeared.

Yes, she�fs strong, but she�fs also way too slow!

�gSTOP RUNNING AND FACE ME, COWARD!�h (Red Skittle)

The brown one had speed and mobility, not to mention it spat toxins and threw spider webs.

But all this one does is charge relentlessly at me and try to punch me in a reckless manner!

*SHOOOOM*

The disproportionately giant fist hurls through the air like a meteor!

Such a blow would unquestionably take my head clean off if it connected!

But it�fs such a straightforwardly telegraphed punch, that air is all it will ever hit!

Such an attack would never hit me!

*SHOOOOM*

She�fs so easy to read that I can dodge her before her fist is even swung!

�gI SAID FIGHT ME!�h (Red Skittle)

*SMASH*

She missed me with another downward swing, causing the ground to tremble and shockwaves to spread through the
snow!

*SHWING*

I swung my blade at her neck as I leaped into the air, but it barely made a scratch!

Her muscles are too thick - it's like a form of natural armor!

*SHOOOOM*

However, no matter how tough in the end it is still flesh.

*Zuzuzuzurrrrrr*

There�fs no way it would stop a plasma bolt that can melt through 40-mm thick Durasteel plating!

�gI WON�fT FORGIVE YOU FOR WHAT YOU DID!�h (Red Skittle)

�gThat�fs my line you miserable cunt!�h (Ellie)

*PACHEWW*

�gGHAA! KEH! KEHHOK!�h (Red Skittle)

The fully-charged plasma bolt left a fist-sized hole through her torso, making her recoil and cough up blood!

�gKEH! YOU�fLL PAY FOR- WHA? HEY WHAT GIVES!�h (Red Skittle)

I took the opportunity while she was stunned from that shot to lift her up with Telekinesis.

She�fs big and heavy, but only to the point where I�fll have a slight headache later.

�gYOU! THIS IS YOUR DOING IS IT!? LET ME DOWN SO I CAN PUNCH YOU!�h (Red Skittle)

Her type is obvious - she rushes blindly forward while believing her endurance, power and stamina will carry her
through everything.

Just like a certain former Ancient Evil that�fs too loud for his own good.

�gRRAGH! I�fLL SMASH YOU! INTO PULP! NO, INTO DUST! RRARGH!�h (Red Skittle)

She can thrash around all she likes, but she lacks any way of attacking from a distance.

It�fs like keeping a small child at arm�fs length while she pathetically swings her tiny fists at you.
Even though she�fs almost two times taller than me.

�gWHY IS THIS HAPPENING!?�h (Red Skittle)

�gBecause you made me angry.�h (Ellie)

�gOH! I MADE YOU ANGRY, DID I? YOU SLICED MY YOUNGEST SISTER�fS ARM OFF!�h (Red
Skittle)

�gSo? She�fs a titan. It won�ft kill her.�h (Ellie)

�gSHE STILL FEELS PAIN YOU INSOLENT LITTLE TWERP!�h (Red Skittle)

�gAnd what about the pain she caused me, huh?�h (Ellie)

�gSHE JUST SCRATCHED YOUR EARS!�h (Red Skittle)

�gShe impersonated my wife! She tried to seduce me! I had to hurt Kira�fs flawless body because of her!�h
(Ellie)

�gYOU DID NOT HAVE TO HURT ANYONE! NOW ALL SHE WILL REMEMBER OF THIS
EXPERIENCE IS PAIN!�h (Red Skittle)

�gYou think having an arm sliced off can compare to the feeling of my heart almost ripping in half!? Alright. Let
me show you then! Let me show you exactly how much she hurt me!�h (Ellie)

�gFINE! GIVE ME YOUR WORST! I�fLL TAKE IT AND GIVE IT BACK A HUNDREDFOLD! AS IF THAT
LITTLE TOY OF YOURS COULD DO MUCH ANYWAY!�h (Red Skittle)

Calling this extremely reliable plasma pistol a �etoy�f ...

�gNo, you�fre right. The weight of your sin is too much for this little guy to bear!�h (Ellie)

I holster it and cross my arms in front of my chest.

�gSIN!? BIG WORDS COMING FROM A TINY COWARD!�h (Red Skittle)

Is she an idiot?

�gAll�fs fair in love and war.�h (Ellie)

�g... HUH?�h (Red Skittle)

No, she�fs definitely an idiot.

�gNano, Plan B.�h (Ellie)

{Alright. Give me a moment to set up.}

Earlier the tower wasn�ft in position since we had to keep the girls out of harm�fs way.

Northern Rocs taking chunks out of the enchanted soil might cause it to lose power and crash into the ground, you
know!
But with the sky clear, there is no longer anything stopping us from having it directly overhead.

{Ready. How should we treat our dear customer?}

�gLet�fs give her that soup she seems to love so much.�h (Ellie)

That monstrous regeneration of hers probably won�ft let that happen, but I can still dream, right?

�gOpen fire.�h (Ellie)

{Aye, aye!}

�gHAAAH!? FIRE? IS THAT THE BEST YOU CAN-�h (Red Skittle)

*SPLAT*

�gKHAAK!�h (Red Skittle)

A blue bolt of plasma from above drills right through her shoulder with an unpleasant sound.

Skin, muscle, bone - all of it was melted into an indescribable goop.

�g*SPLAT* GUH! *SPLAT* GUAH! *SPLAT* AARGH! *SPLAT* RAAH!�h (Red Skittle)

She lets out scream as shot after shot as Nano starts preparing the titan soup for our dear customer.

*SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT*

�gAAAAARRGHAAA!�h (Red Skittle)

My PLR-45 Sidearm was built by sacrificing parts and materials from three PLR-76 Plasma Rifles.

*SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT*

�gGUHA! STO- AAARGH!�h (Red Skittle)

Five of those were currently sniping the helplessly suspended titan from our mobile base.

The PLR-70 series weapons are too heavy and have too much recoil to be usable by humans.

If a regular person were to fire one, shattered bones would be the least of their worries.

*SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT*

�gI WILL- AARGH! NOT- KAAAAHAAAAA!�h (Red Skittle)

Although some of the tougher alien species could wield them without problems, that was not their intended purpose.

They were made with the goal of having them equipped on military droids, power armor frames or as stationary
turrets.

We lack all of those things, but what we do have is about twenty heavily customizable all-purpose androids.

*SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT*

When Nano first tried it, the shock from the recoil wrecked the android's internal components and servomotors.

Even though they�fre much more durable than people, it still wasn�ft enough.

That is, until they were refitted and reinforced using a lightweight Mithril-based alloy.

The recipe for it is a byproduct of Nano and Kelly�fs hard work over the last two months.

Who knew a metal that was mainly used for making magic tools was so good at shock absorption?

Truly, the materials in this world are full of surprises.

*SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT*

Hmm?

She hasn�ft been screaming or moving for a while now.

It seems our dear customer has given up and has lost consciousness.

�gCease fire.�h (Ellie)

*SPLAT*

A final parting shot hits her in the jaw, decimating what was left of her face.

Each of those rifle shots rivals a charged bolt from the PLR-45 Sidearm in firepower, only with a substantially
higher rate of fire.

So what�fs left of the titan after a sustained barrage of five of them is�c not a pretty sight.

All the limbs on the right side were severed and most of the chest and abdomen are perforated clean through.

There�fs barely anything left of the skull, but as expected it�fs still alive and regenerating.

I release my Telekinesis on the half-melted titan and it lands in on the ground with a wet thud.

The next one that pops up better be the Original White.

Or else I�fll make it wish it could die!

�c

Huh?

My head suddenly feels lighter, clearer.

It�fs almost as if the fluids oozing out of the almost-corpse are washing away my anger.

Come to think of it, this is supposed to be a titan with some sort of dominion over souls, right?

�gNano, did I seem weird just now?�h (Ellie)

{You were perhaps a little more vocal than normal, but nothing out of the ordinary. Why do you ask?}

�gI think just being in her presence seems to have some sort of effect on my mental state.�h (Ellie)

{I don't follow.}

�gWhen I approached the yellow one yesterday, I felt a sense of dread or apprehension. Like I was doing
something really wrong by putting a hand on her shoulder.�h (Ellie)

{You didn�ft hesitate even one bit, though.}

�gOf course not! Such a vague feeling would never stop me. But then, when the brown one showed up, I
instinctively felt like it would be coming after us. During the fight itself, I would somehow know when a dangerous
attack was coming at me, even from a blind spot.�h (Ellie)

Thinking back at it now, it was a slight difference, but a difference nonetheless.

{Hmm. Interesting. Is that the reason you got so over-excited when the orange one was there? I mean, you outright
fainted, but you weren�ft in any danger so I didn�ft mention anything until now.}

�gYes. Of course. That�fs exactly what happened!�h (Ellie)

I don�ft want to admit that I probably would�fve fainted anyway.

The Beam-Saber-wielding-Scrappy-and-fire-breathing-wings-spread-Puff combination was entirely too awesome!

Just remembering it makes me want to jump up and down out of pure joy!

Ah, but this isn�ft the time for that!

�gAnd then later, my body got unreasonably turned on with the pink one. And until a few moments ago I was
absolutely furious with the red one. Even though I had no reason to be.�h (Ellie)

It�fs not accurate to think of them as different sides to the same being.

They�fre completely different people who share the same body, after all.

I had already decided on this aspect of the titan last night.

Looking at it that way, the red one was completely justified in her actions.

I hurt what she called her �eyoungest sister�f and she came out to protect her.

Yet I unreasonably lashed out at her for something she didn�ft do.

{What about the white one?}

�gHmm, perhaps I trusted her a little too easily. She had a calming atmosphere around her, like a reliable existence
that looks after people.�h (Ellie)

Almost exactly like Kira is when she�fs doting on our daughters, actually.

�gI�fll have to be sure not to let my guard around her. Nano, I�fm counting on you to stop me if it gets too
bad.�h (Ellie)
{Understood. You can count on me!}

Nano can easily rob me of my muscle control if I get influenced into doing something unforgivable.

***

�gI apologize completely for my actions earlier. While I may have not been myself, I still feel responsible for
coming onto your wife like that. It is inexcusable and her retaliation was justified. Please forgive me, Kiressara.�h
(White Skittle)

She bowed deeply to the point where her forehead touched the floor.

The white one returned after the red one had healed and promised she would immediately see to Kira�fs needs.

So I agreed to bring her before Kira.

Nano�fs armed escort is in the room though, just in case.

Her weird titan ability has no sway over something that has no soul, after all.

�gIf you want... to be forgiven�c then please�c save my baby�c�h (Kira)

�gKira�c�h (Ellie)

�gI understand. Then, may I begin the ritual immediately?�h (White Skittle)

�gYou won�ft�c do anything�c weird�c right?�h (Kira)

�gPlease believe me, I have no desire to sully the beautiful relationship you two share anymore than I already have.
I will merely rectify the defect in your souls.�h (White Skittle)

�gDefect? What defect?!�h (Ellie)

�gIt is something common with foreign souls - they are unaccustomed to this world so they have trouble following
its laws. It is very rare for off-worlders to leave offspring or be able to use magic. Both of you are quite exceptional
in this regard.�h (White Skittle)

�gWait�c what do you mean�c both of us?�h (Kira)

�gHmm? You�fre both outsiders, aren�ft you?�h (White Skittle)

Umph said something like that too, didn�ft he?

�gIf it�fs about the color of our souls, it�fs because of the [Unity] spell we both use.�h (Ellie)

�gAh�c I see�c It seems there was a huge misunderstanding.�h (White Skittle)

She holds out her two hands with palms up.

�gLet�fs say this is what a soul from this world looks like to my eyes.�h (White Skittle)

Some white thread shoots from her fingers and she gingerly rolls it into a small pure white ball with her left hand.
�gThis, is what I see when I look at the two of you.�h (White Skittle)

*FWOOSH*

A roaring red flame erupts from her right hand like a miniature pyre.

�gTo claim one has turned into the other with a single spell-�h (White Skittle)

She threw the thread ball into the fire, where it disappeared into a puff of smoke.

�g- is a ludicrous suggestion. The soul would be ripped apart without question. Even I cannot reshape it to this
extent.�h (White Skittle)

She closes her hand, putting out the flame on her palm.

�gBelieve me when I say this - neither of you were born on this world.�h (White Skittle)
Chapter 120 - Anything can be called a ritual as long as there's enough
hand waving involved - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gSo what...? Can you�c fix our child�c or not?�h (Kira)

�gSeriously! Every minute is precious, isn�ft it?�h (Ellie)

She really should stop wasting our time with this pointless trivia!

�gUhm. You don�ft seem overly concerned about this �ebeing an otherworlder�f thing...�h (Skittles)

�gIt�fs�c your loss�c if you�c mind it�c�h (Kira)

�g... Okay?�h (Skittles)

�gWhat Kira means to say is, we have more important things to worry about right now!�h (Ellie)

�gRight�c I was just�c shouldn�ft you be more surprised? I mean�c Nevermind.�h (Skittles)

Was she looking forward to our reactions or something?

So what if Kira is from another world?

Everything and everyone we care about is right here.

Something like being born elsewhere doesn�ft make a blind bit of difference!

�gHurry up and do your job! This time without freaking out, okay!?�h (Ellie)

�gThen, I will now proceed with the ritual. Please stand perfectly still.�h (Skittles)

Skittles walks closer to me who�fs standing and Kira who�fs laying in our bed while clutching her bulging belly.

�gCome on out Khamis. I know you�fre here.�h (Skittles)

�gAhh pizdec�c�h (Khamis)

A familiar voice comes out from beneath Kira.

Slowly but surely, a small ball of near-black smoke comes out from under the bed.

It floated up in the air and stood between Skittles and us.

It has two pure-white triangles for eyes and a triple white stripe around its forehead like a bandana.

The size is much smaller though - this one is about the size of an apple.

�g... How long has he been there?!�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm guessing Draglael called him at some point. He hates being out in the open like this so he probably hid
where it was dark.�h (Skittles)

�gPrivet cyki, kak dela? Vnutri vas teper urodets?�h (Khamis)

Okay, that weird language is definitely Khamis.

�gDon�ft talk that way to them!�h (Skittles)

�gPochemu nyet? Cyki vseravno menya ne ponimayut!�h (Khamis)

�gDo you want me to bring Gray out again?�h (Skittles)

�gPoshla nahui! Ne vipuskai etu ebanytyu!�h (Khamis)

His arrogant tone of voice suddenly became much more panicked, like he�fs afraid.

Gray, huh?

Yet another personality I wasn�ft warned about.

Judging from Khamis�fs tone of voice, we should make sure we avoid meeting that one.

�gNow then. Ellie, please move Kiressara to the middle of the room and lie down next to her.�h (Skittles)

I gently lift Kira in my arms while she gives me a dreamy smile.

She looks really happy... maybe I should carry her around like this more often...

I move to where the titan instructed us to go and set her down on the hardwood floor.

I lie down right by her side.

�gCloser, shoulder-to-shoulder. That�fs it, now hold onto her hand.�h (Skittles)

I do as she says, feeling Kira grip my hand with all her strength.

There isn�ft much of that strength left�c

�gGood. Now try not to move around too much.�h (Skittles)

*SNAP*

Huh?

Is her body is morphing again?

*SNAP*

Please don�ft tell me she�fs trading places before she even started!

*CRACK*

No, wait, her color isn�ft changing, but the number of limbs sure is.

*SPLIT*

Numerous arms grow spring out in quick succession from her back, her sides, and her shoulders.

Altogether there are�c twelve pairs of them!

I see four clawed carapace-covered arms clearly belong to the brown one.
Then the red one�fs ridiculously muscular arms stand out like a sore thumb

The rest are all human in appearance, but far from identical.

I spot Kira�fs perfect arms among them, too.

It was expected, but I�fm still glad to see it had healed properly.

Skittles moves around and sits herself down next to our heads.

That is really close to my face now.

I really wish she would put some clothes on already!

She bends forward, the twelve pairs of arms fanning out above us.

�gHum hum hum hummmm... Haaahahaaa haa hummmm...�h (Skittles)

I start to hear a solemn tune, it sounds like Skittles is humming.

However, it seems to come from all around me rather than from the spider-lady looming overhead.

�gHaa-haaahaaaah! Haaaahah ahaaah!�h (Strange Voice)

Another feminine voice came out of nowhere, its vocalizations matching perfectly with the humming.

A second, a third, a fourth voice join in soon after.

I can�ft tell how many there are, but it�fs basically a chorus now!

A darkness draws in around us, blocking out our view of the ceiling like a curtain.

Dozens of small red eyes open up, peering at us from above.

At this point I only see eyes, blackness and multiple arms waving and weaving in the air above us.

The limbs in question start glowing slightly, becoming bright and transparent.

The movements become more complex, the hologram-like arms phasing through each other with no difficulty.

I�fd like to freak out right now, but I cannot move.

My voice won�ft come out and my head and face are completely unresponsive.

Arms, legs, neck - the rest of my body is also refusing to obey me.

I lose the feeling of the hard floor against my back and my sight fades to blackness.

The only sensation I feel is the gentle chorus�c

It�fs no longer around me, but within me�c.

An undeniable feeling of comfort washes over me�c

Then, I started hearing a second set of voices singing a slow, somber song...

Beyond the touch of Enuri

You were born to another sky.
Through twists of fate, you passed the gate.
From somewhere deep, yet somewhere high.

Freed from your chains - the avatar

Of your own future, your own star.
Our paths have crossed, with you souls lost.
Thy forms misshapen and bizarre.

Now hear my voice, a guiding light!

Join together, by rule of White!
Fulfill thy word to forge a third!
Undo the wrong and make it right!

The song ends and the humming dies out gradually as the world returns.

No,that�fs not quite right, it�fs more like I�fve returned to the world.

I open my eyes and see the same room I was lying in, yet it looks different.

The colors are more colorful.

{-ie! Ellie can you hear me!?}

�gNano?�h (Ellie)

{Oh thank goodness! Your pulse stopped for a few seconds there! How are you feeling?!}

�gI�fm fine.�h (Ellie)

The sounds are somehow crisper.

The hard surface pressing against my back, the warm hand holding onto mine, the sensation of my own clothes on
my skin.

It is all the same, yet different�c clearer.

It�fs like a transparent film was removed from my whole body�c

Somehow I understand, I did not simply return�c not exactly.

I was welcomed back with open arms.

�gEllie�c�h (Kira)

I turn my head to the side and behold Kira�fs smile.

�gBeautiful�c�h (Ellie)

It�fs even more dazzling than I remember.

I think I�fve fallen for her yet again.

�gYes�c you are�c�h (Kira)

�gWell, they�fre already flirting so I take it you succeeded.�h (Nano/Gunner)

�gThat is correct. Their souls are now in complete harmony with the heartbeat of this world.�h (Skittles)
�gWell that was a sentence that made absolutely no sense. I�fll have to take your word on it.�h (Nano/Gunner)

I gently rub Kira�fs thumb with my own.

�gHow are you feeling Kira?�h (Ellie)

�g... At peace�c Like I�fve�c come home�c�h (Kira)

�gIs your body still weak?�h (Ellie)

Her smile falls away to reveal a small frown.

�gYes�c�h (Kira)

I look questioningly at Skittles.

�gWe�fre not done yet. We will now proceed with the second stage. Normally this part happens on its own, but
this is a rather special case. That�fs why Khamis and I are here to assist.�h (Skittles)

�gBlyat ne mogu poverit�f ya sogalasilsa pomoch cykam...�h (Khamis)

�gOh quiet you. It�fs not like you have anything better to do.�h (Skittles)

�gDa blyat est! Ya dolgen zanovo izobresti vodku!�h (Khamis)

�gBut why? You don�ft even need to drink!�h (Skittles)

�gA tvoey zelenoi obzhiratsa ne nado.�h (Khamis)

�gThis and that are completely-�h (Skittles)

�g*Ahem* Kira and our baby are still not healthy, right?�h (Ellie)

I get it that it�fs a reunion and all, but don�ft forget why we�fre all here in the first place, okay?

�gRight, sorry. This part is actually much simpler. Khamis, go prepare the vessel.�h (Skittles)

�gDa, vseravno.�h (Khamis)

Khamis turns from a semi-solid black mass into a cloud of dark smoke.

�gHaaaaah!�h (Kira)

He invades Kira�fs body through the nostrils!?

If he�fs going to �eprepare the vessel�f I think he went in through the wrong end!

That�fs not how anatomy works!

Ah, but if he actually entered from down there then I would never forgive him!

�gHum hum hum hummmm ha-hum-ha-hum...�h (Skittles)

Skittles starts humming again, this time a more lively, upbeat tune.

The two dozen arms become transparent again and she slowly reaches down to where we are.

Six hands hover over my torso and two more over my face.
I see a strange substance slowly spread from her fingertips.

It�fs like the see-through limbs are weird bottles being filled with a bubbling violet liquid.

Is that�c a part of my soul?

Should I really be awake for this!?

No, her actions earlier already proved she knew what she was doing, so let�fs observe quietly.

Once all eight arms above me are filled to just above the wrists, she moves them closer to Kira.

It looks like Skittles did the same thing on Kira�fs side.

The main difference that is Kira�fs Soul Juice (tentative name) is a darker, richer shade of purple.

I guess our souls were not completely identical after all, huh?

That is�c it makes sense, but I still feel a bit sad about it.

Skittles claps the eight pairs of hands together.

She�fs emptying half of the collected samples of Soul Juice into the other half of arms.

Sixteen portions become eight, then four, then two, then finally one.

The final arm is filled almost all the way up to her shoulder.

I think it�fs White�fs original right arm, based on where it�fs connected to her body.

Her humming intensifies and the cocktail of Soul Juices gradually shrinks as it becomes darker.

Is she compressing it!?

When it�fs shrunk down until just the palm and fingers that are filled, she touches Kira�fs belly with five purple-
tinged fingertips.

Whatever is inside seems to drain away into Kira, though it�fs not leaving any stains on her night gown.

I don�ft know why I expected there to be a stain�c

Skittles stands perfectly still like that for several seconds while still humming.

�gKEH! KOFF KOFF! PTUI! KOFF!�h (Kira)

Kira has a rather harsh coughing fit, throwing out small clouds of smoke with every breath.

The humming stops when the coughing dies down.

Khamis reforms himself, throws both Kira and me a quick look and turns back to Skittles.

�gVse blyat, poidy pomous. Khamis, outski!�h (Khamis)

He spouts off something at Skittles and then instantly dissipates into thin air.

�gKhamis said it was a success. The child�fs new soul was successfully forged and bound to its vessel.�h
(Skittles)
�gReally!? Kira! How are you feeling?�h (Ellie)

�gDisgusted�c that guy�c smelled horrible�c�h (Kira)

�gHey! She�fs supposed to get better! Why is she still out of breath!?�h (Ellie)

�gGive her time. She�fll be good as new after a full night�fs rest.�h (Skittles)

�gOh! Yes, of course. Sorry.�h (Ellie)

I got pointlessly agitated, it makes sense if I stop and think about it.

She�fs suffered from a debilitating condition for weeks, so something like instantaneous recovery is impossible.

�gThen�c our child�c will live?�h (Kira)

�gYes. You have my personal guarantee that it will be born strong and healthy.�h (Skittles)

�gKiraaa!�h (Ellie)

I throw myself on top of her and hug her tightly!

�gEllie�c we did it�c *Sniffle* Finally�c *Sniffle*�h (Kira)

My Kira�c our child�c I�fm so glad that my tears flow down my face like a torrent...

I�fve been trying desperately to stay strong, to not let myself be controlled by fear and uncertainty.

But now that it�fs over, all those bottled up worries are flowing freely from my eyes.

It feels good to let it all out.

After a while, we�fve both calmed down.

Skittles is still sitting there, her extra arms disappeared at some point.

�gThank you. *Sniffle* For helping them both.�h (Ellie)

�gIt is simply my duty as a titan. Think nothing of it. In truth, I should be the one thanking you, Ellie.�h (Skittles)

�gReally? I don�ft think I did anything to help you, though.�h (Ellie)

Pretty sure all I did was hurt her.

Crap!

Don�ft tell me I�fve managed to create another Ariel!

�gThanks to you, I was able to create a new daughter of my own.�h (Skittles)

�g... Huh?�h (Ellie)

�gEllie?�h (Kira)

She�fs looking at me with a confused face.

I�fm the one who�fs most confused here!

�gNo! No no no no no no! I did no such thing! I completely rejected that pink imitation with all of my might!�h
(Ellie)

�gAh, I may have misspoken. It is different than the, um, process you two are familiar with.�h (Skittles)

Don�ft say things that will cause misunderstandings so casually!

�gExplain yourself properly... Or else!�h (Ellie)

My stabbing arm�fs practically twitching at this point!

�gBy peering into your memories, I was able to experience love and passion unlike anything else I�fve seen
before. The sheer intensity of those feelings echoed within me, flooding my being with an emotion I did not
possess.�h (Skittles)

�gYou mean�c you took a part of me to create the pink one?�h (Ellie)

�gNot quite. It is just a reflection, a splinter of myself that mirrors a specific concept.�h (Skittles)

�gDidn�ft that just make you crazier?�h (Ellie)

�gI am perfectly sane, thank you very much.�h (Skittles)

No, that�fs exactly what a crazy person would say!

�gThere are like 8 people living inside your head! If you�fre not crazy, then what�fs up with that!?�h (Ellie)

�gActually, this is a good opportunity. Would you two be willing to listen to the tale of an old soul?�h (Skittles)

I blink a few times in surprise.

Looking towards Kira, she gives me a small nod.

Seems she wants to know.

�g... Okay. We�fre listening.�h (Ellie)

Skittles puts on a blank expression and holds out her arms.

The black curtain from before seems to envelop us, but I�fm still very much awake.

�gYou see, like yourselves, I too am not a native to this world. I came here from another plane, a mere wisp that
was barely conscious of itself.�h (Skittles)

She waves her hands and a small, transparent orb appeared out of nothing.

�gI wandered aimlessly, no goal, no purpose, no thought. Then by chance�c I met a little girl. A small thing lost
in the woods. Hungry, thirsty, bleeding and afraid. Sensing this unfortunate soul, something called out to me to
protect her. To save her. I gave into what she yearned for. And thus, I became Compassion.�h (Skittles)

The orb shone with a bright white light.

�gI reached out to her and she accepted me, embraced me. That is when I understood her inner self. She was not
afraid of dying. She was afraid of being alone, of being forgotten in those dark woods. So I stayed by her side,
keeping her company in her final moments. Before long, she had abandoned her physical form, and I had taken her
soul and her worries within myself. This is how Compassion found Fear.�h (Skittles)

A second, yellow light appeared and slowly started orbiting around the white one.
�gThis new sensation was strange for both of us. It overwhelmed us, drove us to desperation. We sought shelter
and forcefully entered the closest vessel we could find. A tiny spider, minding its own business, living life as its
nature dictated. Sensing the intruder within itself, this tiny soul lashed out in a blind fit for survival. Eventually it
gave up and became a part of us. And it was thus that Compassion found Instinct.�h (Skittles)

A third, pale brown light now joined the yellow one in circling the center one.

�gNow bound to a physical body, I had needs. Thirst and hunger now needed to be satiated. I ate and grew
peacefully. Then, a lizard happened upon me. It pounced at us meaning to feast on us, but it would not succeed. Fear
avoided it while Instinct ensnared it in thread. But the lizard was not afraid, for we had no means of harming it. It
kept thinking of eating us, of how we would taste. Not for survival, but for pleasure. This desire resonated with my
newfound Instinct. And it was thus, that Gluttony sprang forth from us.�h (Skittles)

A green orb joined the small atom-like formation.

�gLeaving the would-be-predator behind, Gluttony led me to eat and eat as I grew and grew. Before I knew it, I
had become larger than men. But I was still a spider. To them, I was a threat, a hateful existence that needed to be
purged. I was hunted, hurt and wounded. Instinct fought back, but the hunters returned each time, filled with anger
and rage over their fallen comrades. During such a time is when Wrath bubbled over.�h (Skittles)

A larger red light appeared.

�gWrath was overwhelmingly powerful. It decimated the hunters and their village. It was at that point we realized
we had grown far beyond a simple spider and did not actually need to eat, sleep or drink. But all that led to was an
feeling of loss. A realization we had no purpose and no goal. An existence without meaning. And thus, amidst the
silent ruins of that village, Apathy settled in. Apathy and its complete unwillingness to act sprang forth Sloth. And
Sloth decided to hide us away in a deep, dark cave so it could sleep in peace.�h (Skittles)

A gray and then a cyan light flowed in one after the other, joining the others.

�gWith every fragment, every new soul that joined or sprouted, Compassion retreated further and further away
from the surface, while the brown spider�fs form gradually become what you see before you. But, down in that
cave, is where I would meet an old mage. He did not fear or resent us, nor did he want to eat us. He wanted to study
us. To observe, learn and understand. Sloth, Fear and Wrath agreed to allow this mage to do as he pleased, provided
he did not hurt us. We observed and studied him in return, and our mirrored intentions gave rise to Curiosity.�h
(Skittles)

A purple orb floated in from nowhere, joining the rest.

�gCuriosity led to understanding, through understanding came knowledge, through knowledge we learned words,
through words we could now communicate. The mage, grateful to us for allowing him to sate his own desire for
knowledge, offered to take us in. Curiosity, Instinct and Gluttony agreed, and thus we followed the mage to his
home. There we found a group of strange beings, outsiders just like us. Some small, some large. But all were glad to
be there, glad to have each other. We spent our days alongside them, their combined happiness and love eventually
giving birth to Joy. And with Joy, Compassion was finally able to resurface.�h (Skittles)

Orange was the new addition.

�gBut alas, it would not last. The concept of a lifespan had long become foreign to me. I inevitably saw the old
mage pass away. His companions would also eventually succumb to the flow of time. As they all mourned each
other, so did Sorrow join them in their grief.�h

A deep blue light emerged from within the white one.

�gAnd thus I was left alone once more. But I was not lonely. For by now there existed ten disparate souls within
the same vessel. Sometimes bickering, sometimes laughing, but always in harmony. We supported and
complemented each other. All this had occurred for the sake of bringing comfort to a scared girl in the middle of the
forest.�h (Skittles)

Skittles smiled broadly at us as a pink light emerged from chest.

�gAnd thanks to the two of you, Passion was born. Another addition to our strange little household, helping to keep
us all in balance. For this body before you is more than mere flesh, it is a stronghold. A wall that staves away that
which would see us all chained. A beacon that wards off the corruption that would drive us into Nightmare. A force
that fights back against that which claws at the edge of our sanity.�h (Skittles)

She claps her hands, causing the small light show to disperse.

�gFor you see�c Titans are not born. They are not made nor do they pop out of thin air. Titans are beings who rise
up. Beings who cast off and transcend their former selves. All in order to protect what is precious to us. To
safeguard this little corner of reality we call home from what you know as the Calling. This is our purpose and our
duty. Regardless of your reasons, your actions in assisting Umphrumphil, Draglael, Khamis and myself will likely
end up saving more lives than you will ever know. For this, we are all truly and eternally grateful.�h (Skittles)

She relaxes her hands and the blackness gives way to the bedroom we never left.

�gI�fm�c Wow�c�g (Kira)

�g...�h (Ellie)

I share an amazed look with Kira, letting all that sink in.

�gEllie�c do you realize�c what this means?�h (Kira)

�gI do. It seems I was naive�c I did not consider this possibility in the slightest.�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu, then where did you think titans came from?�h (Skittles)

�gNo�c that�fs not�c what we�fre�c talking about�c�h (Kira)

�gHuh?�h (Skittles)

The titans we've met so far are a narcoleptic bird, the original dwarf, an antisocial puff of smoke and an absolutely
deranged spider.

�gTo think you idiots actually had an important job like that!�h (Ellie)

�gWe�fre�c doomed�c�g (Kira)

�gWhat?! Hey, come on! That�fs not fair!�h (Skittles)

�gNano! Start working out a way to repair that Jump Drive! We need to be able to run the instant they screw this
up!�h (Ellie)

{Way ahead of you Ellie.}

As long as we have that, then we have a way of avoiding the fallout of their inevitable incompetence.

Preparations are important, after all.

Chapter 121 - A lack of knowledge often leads to good people making
bad decisions - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

*Knock knock*

I stop doodling on the piece of paper and look up from my bed at the door. We just woke up a while ago, but it
should still be too early for breakfast.

�gYes?�h (Lara)

�gGirls do you have a minute?�h (Ellie)

This is rare. Usually our moms have Nano or Ariel come get us whenever it�fs time for supper or something like
that. Maybe it has something to do with that creepy spider lady that was here yesterday.

�gYeah, come right in, Mom.�h (Lara)

The door opens, and standing in the doorway is-

�gSurprise! Guess who�fs all better!�h (Kira)

�gM-mom? MOM!�h (Lara)

She�fs back! She�fs standing all on her own and showing us a bright smile that could melt the sun! I�fll even
forgive that �eTa-da!�f pose she�fs doing for no good reason!

�gYou�fre okay! I�fm so glad you�fre okay! We were really worried!�h (Lara)

I run up and hug her across the stomach, while she hugs me back! Haah, I feel so relieved�c

�gBig sis was the only one worried though. Mommy promised she�fd get better, so I was sure it would work out!
�h (Sophie)

That Sophie�c why is she trying to act so tough? Even though she said all that stuff a few days ago she still
couldn�ft sleep peacefully out of worry. Big sister knows it all!

�gIs that so? Then I guess you don�ft want a hug to feel better, huh? Too bad�c�h (Kira)

�g... Okay, I was a little worried�c Kyah!�h (Sophie)

�gWah!�h (Lara)

Mom swoops in and scoops her up while hanging onto me with one arm! I know she got better, but is it okay to
move around so much!? She could barely speak properly yesterday!

�gMMWAH! MMWAH!�h (Kira)

She plants a big wet kiss on my and Sophie�fs foreheads! Not that I hate it, but that one was a bit gross�c

�gI�fm sorry for worrying you two! It�fs okay though, your mom�fs back and she�fs better than ever!�h
(Kira)

�gUhm, Mom? What�fs wrong with your tummy?�h (Lara)

Now that I�fm properly hugging her, I can plainly tell it�fs bulging out. I wasn�ft sure before because of the
covers and the blankets, but it�fs really obvious when she�fs walking around.

�gHuhuhu, truth is, we have a little surprise for you!�h (Kira)

She let�fs go of us and steps back a little. She cradles the bump in her belly while our other mom hugs her from
behind and puts her hands on top of Kira�fs.

Wait, I�fve seen that sort of thing before, right? Where was it�c I think it was just before-

�gYou�fre going to have a little brother or sister soon!�h (Kira)

-before Sophie was born�c

�gReally? Yay!�h (Sophie)

Sophie gleefully celebrates with arms raised.

�gHuh? No wait, isn�ft that weird? I thought babies were born from the pure love between a man and a woman,
right?�h (Lara)

�gYour mother and I love each other very much, you know.�h (Ellie)

�gAh, right!�h (Lara)

Of course, it makes total sense now that I think about it! In fact, it�fs odd this didn�ft happen sooner considering
how close these two are!

�gSo when is it getting here!?�h (Sophie)

�gUhm�c about two months from now? Yeah, two months!�h (Kira)

�gOh! Isn�ft that close to Big Sis�fs birthday?!�h (Sophie)

�gThat�fs right! Ah, I hope we don�ft get the same birthday�c�h (Lara)

�gYeah, that would be no fun.�h (Sophie)

�gWhy not?�h (Ellie)

�gThere�fd be less birthday parties! Less parties means less cake!�h (Sophie)

No, that�fs not what I meant at all! I was going to complain about how it�fs supposed to be my special day. The
first one since we became a familiy! I want to celebrate it properly! But when Sophie was born, I didn't see our first
mom for several days! If that happens then my own birthday will be ruined!

�gSophie, just how selfish can you get?!�h (Kira)

�gHehehehe! Just kidding!�h (Sophie)

Plus, they might try to get out of buying me a present, saying our new sibling was their gift! Can�ft have that!

No, hold on... This is a good chance isn't it!?

�gSay Mom, shouldn�ft we have a feast to celebrate your recovery?�h (Lara)

I know Zublos, Kelly and Nano have been hoarding some special goodies for a while! I especially can�ft wait to
eat some more of that giant bird meat they brought back! It�fs super juicy and really good!
�gExcellent idea, Lara!�h (Ellie)

�gOhh!�h (Kira)

Ellie suddenly grabs Kira and holds her in front with both arms! This is the so-called princess carry, right?! Come to
think of it, I haven�ft seen Shalia get carried like that at all�c

�gCome now, Kira! Let�fs be off to tell the others!�h (Ellie)

�gOh my�c Well then, I�fll be in your very capable hands ~?!�h (Kira)

Ugh�c Somehow I feel like I want to throw up�c

*SLAM*

And off they go, completely lost in their own world again. They won�ft go nuts and get double-pregnant, right? Is
that a thing that can happen?! No, Ellie is also a girl so she might get pregnant too!

Ack! Those two never hold back in anything! At this rate the house will be filled with babies! I mean�c I don�ft
know if that�fs a good or bad thing, but it�fs definitely going to get super crowded!

�gBy the way Big Sis�c When are we going to tell them?�h (Sophie)

�gAh! I completely forgot! Well�c maybe we should wait until we get back to the capital.�h (Lara)

No need to ruin the good mood we have going for no reason�c

�g... Think they�fll be mad?�h (Lara)

�gOur Mommies never get mad, though. Not at me, anyway!�h (Sophie)

�gWell yeah, but that�fs because you�fre a good girl.�h (Lara)

I on the other hand keep getting lectured over tiny things...

�gEhehehe�c�h (Sophie)

She�fs weak to direct praise as usual. Watching her giggle gleefully from just a few words, I can still hardly
believe this day would come.

Oh!

�gLet�fs go tell Fluffles and Puff! I�fm sure they�fll be happy!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! Great idea big sis!�h (Sophie)

I take her hand and we leave the room, heading towards the grand staircase and up to the fourth floor. This used to
have just Mom�fs magic study room, but Nano put a roost for the gryphons up here too! It appeared overnight after
they were finally able to fly, it was amazing!

I open the newly installed door and enter the gryphon�fs room. It�fs a bit colder in here, but Fluffles and Puff
don�ft seem to mind. Well, we call it a room, but it�fs really just a large covered balcony with a huge door that
they can fly in and out of easily. Apparently they�fll get even bigger than this, so they won�ft fit through the front
door pretty soon.

I see Fluffles is laying down on his bed to the right, while Puff seems to be out somewhere. Maybe it�fs closer to a
nest since it�fs made of straw?
�gFluuufffleees!�h (Sophie)

*Pomf*

Sophie immediately leaps at Fluffles and lands face-first into his side, trying her best to give him a hug.

�gKwa? Kraaa! Kraa!�h (Fluffles)

�gHeee heee heee�c SOOO FLUFFEH!�h (Sophie)

She�fs always like this, as if trying to burrow under his feathers. Yes, he�fs soft and warm, but he�fs a proud
beast! Not some blanket!

�gHey Fluffles! You sleep well?�h (Lara)

�gKwa.�h (Fluffles)

He nods with a chirp and bends his head down over to me. I stroke the soft feathers on his forehead and just under
his beak. Fluffles seems to break out into a pleased smile, even though he has a beak. Uncle Brand was right,
you just somehow know how they feel!

�gWhere�fs Puff?�h (Lara)

I turn towards the box on the wall and ask. Well, even if we can understand his feelings, answering questions like
that is impossible for them.

�gHe went outside just now to greet your mother. Seems he realized Kira got better and couldn�ft help
himself.�h (Nano/Speaker)

�gKuaa?�h (Fluffles)

Fluffles stood up in an instant at the sudden news.

�gYeah! She�fs all better! Better than ever she said!�h (Lara)

�gKwaa! Kuak kuak kuak kuak!�h (Fluffles)

He gave off a series of pleased-sounding noises and jumped up and down a few times. Even when he�fs still big
like this he acts like a little kid! Well, technically he�fs not even a year old yet, so it�fs fine right?

�gUu�c Big Sis and Nano are mean! I wanted to tell him that!�h (Sophie)

Hmm? Come to think of it didn�ft Sophie�fs voice come from somewhere up high?

�gAck! Sophie, get down from there! You know you�fre not supposed to be up there without a saddle!�h (Lara)

She�fs climbed onto his back the instant my eyes were turned!

�gIt�fs fine! We�fre not going to fly around this time! Ah, that�fs right Fluffles! Our moms are gonna have a
brand new baby! Isn�ft that neat!?�h (Sophie)

�gKACK!�h (Fluffles)

�gHuh? What�fs wrong Fluffles? You froze up all of a sudden�c�h (Lara)

�gUm, big sis? His back seems to have gotten a bit damp for some reason�c�h (Sophie)

�gMaybe he ate something weird for breakfast? Come on Sophie, get down from there already!�h (Lara)
�gAww�c Okay�c�h (Sophie)

*SLAM*

Just as my little sister finally got off Fluffles�fs back, the huge double doors to the outside opened with a cold gust
of air! Puff walked in from the small landing platform beyond the door, but�c

Why is he walking backwards? How did he even open the door like that?!

As soon as he walks in, he closes it using those talons of his. He turns around to look at me, then Sophie, then
Fluffles.

�gKw-kweee�c�h (Puff)

That weak cry seems to snap Fluffles out of�c whatever he was doing. He slowly turns his head to face Puff and
lets out a similarly weak voice.

�gKwaa�c�h (Fluffles)

The two nod several times, then walk over to their beds and lie down.

�gAww! They�fre still sleepy!�h (Sophie)

Sophie gently pats Fluffles who really seems to have drifted into sleep. Somehow I don�ft think that�fs exactly
what�fs going on, but they�fd let us know if they felt sick so it�fs fine, right?

�gLet�fs quietly leave so we don�ft disturb them.�h (Lara)

She nods to my whisper and we sneakily leave the room. They worked hard to bring that big spider lady up last
night, apparently she�fs really heavy. Fluffles was grumbling about it for almost 15 minutes! Mom still won�ft let
me meet her though.

*Clack*

We gently close the door behind us and start going down the steps.

�gWah! Sophie we forgot to get dressed!�h (Lara)

I just realized it, but we�fre still in our pajamas! No wonder the tower feels colder than normal!

�gOh no! Let�fs quickly get back before we get scolded!�h (Sophie)

Getting lectured is one thing, but catching a cold just after Mom finally got better would be terrible! We rush back
into our room and start getting dressed.

�gStill, to think we�fll have a little sister, I can�ft wait! I just know it�fll be a super cute baby!�h (Lara)

�gBig sis�c�h (Sophie)

Why is she pouting like that? Oh, I get it! She makes the same face whenever I pet Fluffles or Puff for too long! She
gets in a bad mood whenever I don�ft pay enough attention to her. It�fs probably because she we could only rely
on each other for a long time.

�gDon�ft you worry, Sophie! Your big sister will always think of you as the cutest girl in the world!�h (Lara)

Her pout melts into a small smile and she gets a bit embarrassed. As expected, she�fs weak to praise.

�gR-Really?�h (Sophie)
�gYup, yup! No doubt about it!�h (Lara)

�gYay! Thanks big sis!�h (Sophie)

She hugs me around the chest and I pat her head to reassure her.

I�fm not just saying these things, either. The way her face lights up at even the smallest things these days is
completely adorable! Especially those puffy cheeks! I want to pinch them, but she gets mad when I do that...

�gHmm? But big sis, you know it�fs going to be a new sister?�h (Sophie)

She looks up at me with a curious expression.

�gKids always look like their parents, right? Like how Shalia is almost exactly like her mom. Therefore, because
both of our moms are girls, the baby must also be a girl!�h (Lara)

�gWow! Big sis is so smart! Could it be you were a genius all along!?�h (Sophie)

�gIs that so? It�fs possible that I was actually a genius, huh?�h (Lara)

�gBut sis, where do babies even come from?�h (Sophie)

�gWell, I�fm not really sure. Whenever I asked an adult they kept saying we�fll find out when we�fre older. I
just know the mom and dad, or in this case the mom and mom, love each other a lot and then the mom�fs belly
slowly gets bigger and then a baby appears.�h (Lara)

It�fs a bit vague�c but nobody will tell me the details! Well, I�fll find out eventually, so no need to rush.
Besides, it�fs my loss if I mind it. And I don�ft like to lose!

�gWow! Big sis might really is a genius!�h (Sophie)

�gI see, I see! I guess I was a genius all along!�h (Lara)

�gThen, big sis! When we get older can we have a baby too!?�h (Sophie)

�gHuh? Where did that come from?!�h (Lara)

�gWell, Mommy seemed really happy just now! Won�ft big sis be happy like that too!?�h (Sophie)

�gHmm�c�h (Lara)

Well, I do love my sister quite a lot. And we�fre already family. Having more family means more good times,
right? I don�ft think I�fve ever seen either of our moms smile like that before, so it must be really great to have a
baby.

Also, it�fs impossible to deny those eyes filled with expectation! Therefore, there�fs only one answer!

�gSounds good! Then in preparation, let�fs do our best looking after our new sister! That way when we have our
own baby we�fll be the perfect moms!�h (Lara)

�gAh that�fs right! Just like Mommy says, preparations are important! Big sis is really reliable after all!�h
(Sophie)

�gHeh heh heh! That�fs right! You just let your big sister handle everything!�h (Lara)
Chapter 122 - Conspiracy theorists seem to forget the simple fact that
correlation does not imply causation - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

I spot White Skittles approaching me while we�fre in the middle of preparing for my �eGot Well Party.�f Lara
really had a great idea for this one! We decided to have a huge feast of various Roc-based dishes since the others
had hunted so many of them.

Brand, Nano and Zublos will be cooperating on the cooking so I have high expectations! The smell of the barbecue
currently sizzling in the kitchen is absolutely divine! Roel, Kelly and Ellie are dismantling the giant birds out here in
the yard to get even more meat ready for the three in the kitchen!

As for me, I�fm here to supervise them.

I could be helping actively, but I really should not move around too much. I need to be mindful of my delicate
state you know! Also, I�fm still not fully recovered from being bound to my bed for so long! It�fs not like I�fm
avoiding it because I�fm squeamish, okay? So what if just the wet sounds of knives striking flesh are enough to
make me want to throw up?

This and that are completely unrelated!

�gExcuse me. May I speak to you for a minute? I have a personal request.�h (Skittles)

�gWhat is it?�h (Kira)

�gI understood from Nano you were headed south towards the Mirelian ocean. I was wondering if you would give
me a lift.�h (Skittles)

Okay, this is a surprise, not to mention a bit suspicious.

�gBut you�fre a titan. You don�ft need food or sleep and can probably get there faster by yourself, right?�h
(Kira)

�gWell, that�fs true, but... �h (Skittles)

Skittles looks at me apprehensively and starts mumbling slightly. Make that extremely suspicious.

�gDon�ft make excuses! If you want something, then you should clearly say what it is!�h (Kira)

�g... Okay. Truthfully, while I do intend to get to the ocean eventually, what I- What all of us want is to travel with
you and your companions for a while longer.�h (Skittles)

�gWhat if you suddenly turn brown or red and go berzerk for no reason?! It�fs way too dangerous!�h (Kira)

�gI assure you that they did not �ego berzerk for no reason.�f Red only acts violent in self defense. You would
also go all out if someone else hurt your family in front of your very eyes, right?�h (Skittles)

�gOkay, you have a point. What about the brown one?�h (Kira)

From what I understood it was completely feral. Can you even reason with such a being?

�gShe doesn�ft usually attack people. It�fs just that she sensed your wife was, in her own words,
SKREEKTKT.�h (Skittles)
I facepalm lightly while rubbing my forehead.

�gTry repeating that for those of us that don�ft speak Spider.�h (Kira)

I�fm not even going to ask how she made those sounds with a human mouth and tongue.

�gAh, right, sorry. Uhm, �eSuper Mega Ultra Double-Dangerous�f would be the meaning.�h (Skittles)

�gHow rude! I would appreciate it if you didn�ft talk about my dear Ellie like that!�h (Kira)

�gBrown�fs words, not mine. Although judging from how she effortlessly crushed Red, I�fm inclined to believe
it.�h (Skittles)

�gTechnically that was-�h (Kira)

�gYes, she crushed you! No, you didn�ft! You never stood a single chance from the start!�h (Skittles)

She started yelling and gesturing at someone to the right of her.

�gThat�fs your own damn fault! You kept egging her on even while the rest of us were telling you to cut it out!
�h (Skittles)

Of course, there�fs nobody actually there.

�gAnd how did all that work out for you, huh? You got completely destroyed, utterly decimated and totally
wrecked! It was so one-sided it was pitiful!�h (Skittles)

I noticed the wet sounds from behind me have stopped, so I glance over my shoulder. Ellie, Kelly and Roel are
staring at her, their confusion obvious on their faces. Turning my attention back forward, I cross my arms and raise
an eyebrow inquisitively at Skittles who keeps arguing with herself.

�gNow listen here- That�fs it, you�fre grounded! No more getting out unless- Huh!? What do you mean out
loud?!�h (Skittles)

Skittles suddenly remembers I�fm still here and turns back to me with a blank look on her face.

�gOh�c�h (Skittles)

She then immediately averts her gaze and starts twiddling her thumbs.

�gW-well�c Uhh�c Th-that�fs basically how things are. She won�ft trouble you for a while.�h (Skittles)

�gSo do you want to get off my property willingly or be thrown off it by force?�h (Kira)

�gI hope it�fs by force.�h (Ellie)

Ellie walked up to my side and backed me up no questions asked. She�fs become so assertive lately that I might
have fallen in love for her for the 5th time ~?! I wonder if it�fs okay to get double-married after all ~?!?

�gI apologize profusely for my outburst. Please let me plead my case.�h (Skittles)

Ack! Almost forgot this nutjob was still there! Though seeing her sincerely bow down in apology like that totally
makes me feel like I�fm the bad guy...

�gI�fm sorry as well, it was not fair to you.�h (Kira)

I realize she�fs not as crazy as she appears. More importantly she saved me and my unborn child when it would
have been easier to ignore us. I shouldn�ft repay her kindness with scorn.
�gPlease follow me inside. I�fd be glad to hear you out. The rest of you get back to work!�h (Kira)

***

I sit down in the living room. Skittles slightly shifts her body to squeeze through the door and sits down on the
carpet opposite me.

�gThank you for being so accomodating.�h (Skittles)

�gDon�ft worry about it. This is the least I could do. Now, what�fs this all really about?�h (Kira)

�gIt is rather simple, really. The brief time we have spent together reminded me of a happier time. Of a group of
oddballs gathered around a kind mage that taught us all the meaning of Joy.�h (Skittles)

She must mean that old man and his comrades from her story. Well�c as much as I hate to admit it, we are surely
very much alike.

�gWe wish to relive those cheerful times, even a little, and were hoping to accompany you for as long as you
would allow us. What I wish for is nothing more than your companionship.�h (Skittles)

I briefly consider her proposal. Despite mine and Ellie�fs reservations, she�fs still one of the �eGreater�f titans,
right? Let�fs think of it as a rare chance!

�gAll right, I understand. You can accompany us under three conditions. First, you have to wear clothes at all
times.�h (Kira)

Seriously, the always-naked thing is getting on my nerves. It�fs not good to have a pervert like that with the kids
walking around!

�gI understand. One moment, please.�h (Skittles)

She puts her fingertips together, then pulls them apart. Five glistening white threads stretch out between her hands.
She then moves them back together and starts moving her fingers wrists and hands at high speeds.

{Kira, you sure this is okay?}

Nano speaks into my ear while Skittles is doing her thing.

�gIt should be. She isn�ft exactly untrustworthy. Besides, I plan to exploit her for all she has.�h (Kira)

I turn my head, cover my mouth and answer back in a gentle whisper.

{Oh! As expected of you! Okay, I�fll leave you to it!}

Fufufu. People won�ft realize they were ripped off if they�fre left smiling and satisfied at the end of a deal!

�gWill this suffice?�h (Skittles)

Seems the titan finished what she was doing while I was distracted. I look back at her and almost can�ft believe my
eyes! She�fs already made a sleeveless pure-white gown out of her thread! It fits superbly around her human-
shaped upper body!

�gOh wow! Can I touch the fabric?!�h (Kira)

She nods and I reach out and lightly pinch the cloth between my fingers. It�fs not just the looks! This smooth
sensation easily trumps high-quality silk! And without a single seam anywhere! It�fs really well made!
�gHow come you didn�ft wear one of these until now?�h (Kira)

�gWell�c it�fs been a while since I needed clothes.�h (Skittles)

I guess a titan living in this frozen wasteland doesn�ft really need any clothing. It�fs not as if she�fll catch a cold
or anything. Not to mention this colthing probably would not survive those violent transformations of hers. I let go
of the fabric and lean back in my seat.

�gI see. Then from now on, I�fll be counting on you to not prance around naked anymore. This goes for the rest
of you in there! Which leads me to the second condition - you still want to let the different parts of you resurface and
do their thing, right?�h (Kira)

�gYes�c It is not right to keep them locked in as if they were prisoners. Well, except Red and Brown. They are
being punished, but since nobody got hurt I may lighten their sentences. If that�fs okay with you.�h (Skittles)

�gI understand completely. I will forgive them as long as they repent properly.�h (Kira)

The White one clearly thinks of the others as her daughters. Punishments are fine, but I would never think of
depriving them of their freedom. Especially as a fellow mother.

�gThank you, you truly are too kind.�h (Skittles)

�gThink nothing of it. In any case, I will try to accommodate any demands your other selves may have.�h (Kira)

That outburst earlier makes it clear - Skittles can talk to and share information with her dormant personalities. Since
we have a way to communicate, compromises will be made possible. Even those two battle maniacs can be
useful if we can point them in a direction where only monsters will get hurt. That way they let out their pent-up
aggression and the area becomes safe. A simple win-win!

�gIn return, I ask that you assist us with some of our projects and help around the house a bit. This is the second
condition. I will not tolerate freeloaders!�h (Kira)

She�fs a titan with eleven different people inside her. Surely their combined experience and different viewpoints
will be a big help to Nano and his ideas going forward. Not to mention I want some of those silky dresses for myself
and Ellie!

�gLending you some of my power in exchange for satisfying our selfishness, hmm? It seems like a fair trade.
However, I hope you realize there are things we are not capable of and/or are unwilling to do.�h (Skittles)

�gIt�fs the same for us, I will deny any outrageous requests immediately, so please be moderate. That goes double
for the pink one! I don�ft care how badly she wants it, she�fs not laying a hand on Ellie! Or me, for that matter!
�h (Kira)

I almost had a heart attack when I heard about it from Nano! Having to give my consent to something like that was
horrible! And then she tried to seduce my sweet innocent Ellie even though she was refused! The sheer nerve of that
harlot!

�gAh, about that. Pink wishes to apologize to and thank Ellie for refuting her. She says she lost control to her new
body and would have deeply regretted it if that situation went any further. She also vows to seek her, uh
�erelease�f elsewhere.�h (Skittles)

So�c she went into heat!? Well, if she really did appear based on Ellie�fs memory then that�fs entirely possible.
Ellie is really intense whenever she�fs performing her nightly duties. She doesn�ft hold back in the slightest ~?!
Not that I�fm complaining ~?!

�gAlright, I�fll forgive her as long as she doesn�ft copy my body.�h (Kira)
I mean, if she can freely change her face and body then there�fs no reason to use those, right?!

�gShe says you have a deal.�h (Skittles)

That�fs good. The idea of someone who looks like me sleeping around is�c uncomfortable to say the least. And if
Ellie finds out something like that was going on, there won�ft be anything left of Skittles! Even if it�fs by proxy,
my gallant Ellie will not forgive anyone for daring to lay a finger on her dear wifey ~?!

�gIt seems all of us are in agreement. The other parts of me will cooperate fully in the future whenever they wish to
come outside and play.�h (Skittles)

Good. It�fs fine as long as they understand. I just hope their definition of �eplay�f doesn�ft end up breaking a
mountain in half...

�gThen the last condition - I need to know why you want to head for the ocean.�h (Kira)

She�fs been in this place for who knows how long and now she suddenly decided to travel clear across the
continent. There must be a good reason for this, but I want to avoid any nasty titan-related surprises, if at all
possible. Even if Skittles means well, it doesn�ft mean we won�ft get dragged into something dangerous because
of her.

�gIt is not an urgent matter. We simply wish to visit the resting place of our former comrades and pay our respects.
Call it a pilgrimage of sorts.�h (Skittles)

�gYou know where this place is?�h (Kira)

�gYes. Although we travelled a lot together we eventually settled down and built a small village on a cliff
overlooking the ocean. As long as I make it to the shore, I will find my way there.�h (Skittles)

�gReally now? Honestly, I�fm a bit surprised. No offense, but the rest of your fellow titans have
been extremely�c forgetful.�h (Kira)

To the point where even calling them �eunreliable�f would be an understatement. Draglael didn�ft mention a lot
of things regarding Skittles on the way here. When Ellie confronted her about it, her only response was �eI
forgot.�f Umph also seemed quite scatterbrained during the brief time he accompanied Kelly. And Khamis, well, I
don�ft even understand that thing so it�fs best not to worry about it.

�gThey are, but through no fault of their own. Without a living vessel that is flesh and blood, the memories etched
on the soul will slowly erode, becoming incomplete. Given enough time, they might completely disappear. It is also
why I am so adamant about retaining my original body. Forgetting even a single thing about the only place I have
ever called home is something unforgivable.�h (Skittles)

I see. So it was like that. I guess Ellie and I really have been too hard on those guys. I�fll have to apologize to
them. Just a little though.

�gAlright. Since you�fve promised to keep yourself decent and cooperate fully with me and Nano, I have no
qualms about keeping you company.�h (Kira)

�gAll of us look forward to working with you.�h (Skittles)

We shake hands briefly to signify our mutual understanding. Peaceful resolutions really are the best after all!

�gDo you mind if I ask one last thing?�h (Kira)

�gCertainly.�h (Skittles)

�g... What was he like? This person that left such a deep impression on all of you?�h (Kira)
She broke out into a nostalgic smile and gently closed her eyes.

�gA cheeky geezer who would incessantly ask the most bizzarre questions. Things like �eHow come air is there
but we can�ft see it?�f or �eCan Green really eat rocks?�f Even though he was loud and unpredictable, he was
still a splendid scholar. You know he was the one who invented the practice of enchanting the earth through those
giant Magic Stones?�h (Skittles)

�gReally?! Isn�ft that quite amazing?�h (Kira)

�gIndeed. And it all stemmed from a prank he used on Yellow. He made the ground under her flare up in a bright
light so he could spook her. Heh. Red almost flattened his face that day.�h (Skittles)

Well, the reason for it may have been silly, but many magical practices trace their origins to equally stupid thoughts.

�gIn that case I should pay my respects as well. It is the least I can do. My family has benefited greatly from his
research.�h (Kira)

�gI noticed. Though I doubt even that man would ever think to float his own fortress like this. However, he would
definitely give it a try, given the chance. Purple is particularly thrilled to see you carrying on his legacy in an
fittingly outrageous way. Even back then she was his best disciple, you know?�h (Skittles)

�gCome to think of it, what was his name?�h (Kira)

The identity of the one who invented city-scale magic is unknown, so this is bound to be very valuable information.
It�fs probably some unknown scholar, right?

�gHis name was Kotero Ferseit.�h (Skittles)

No way. No. Fucking. Way.

�gTHE Kotero Ferseit?! Founder and First Magus of the ancient Order of the Eye?!�h (Kira)

�gHmm? Now that you mention it there was such a group of people, huh?�h (Skittles)

�gGroup of people!? That Order is the sole reason magical knowledge is so widespread in the Kingdom and
beyond!�h (Kira)

The prestigious Magic Academy traces its origins back to that very same Order! It�fs an organization that still
carries out their will to further the study of magic!

�gHmm? Which Kingdom would that be? He hated politics so I didn�ft think he had any ties with a specific
nation.�h (Skittles)

She�fs staring at me with an tilted head! Wow, she really didn�ft know? Just how long did she mope around this
place all by herself!?

�gTell you what. Not only do I know where his crypt is, I can even introduce you to his descendants. That�fs sure
to make you happy, right?�h (Kira)

�gOh! His bloodline lives on!? This is a pleasant surprise!�h (Skittles)

�eLives on�f is putting it mildly. It was Kotero Ferseit�fs grandson that would become the founder of the
Kingdom of Ferseit. That unbroken line of kings that has endured for over 800 years. The settlement from her
memories should be the capital the Founding King named after his late grandfather.

�gThen, I will take you up on your offer! We would very much like to meet that old Crackhead�fs descendants!
�h (Skittles)
�gCr-crackhead?�h (Kira)

�gYes, that was his nickname among us friends. He would always go overboard with his magic. The wooden
staves he used would sometimes explode from all the mana he put into them. Orange would tease him relentlessly
over it.�h (Skittles)

...

Okay Kiressara, deep breaths. Carefully analyze the situation. First, let�fs make a brief list of how similar I am to
the person from her stories.

? Brilliant Human mage

? Surrounded by a rag-tag group of odd-balls
? Regularly explodes staves due to mana overload
? Earned the nickname Crackhead
? Hated politics
? Did outrageous things for objectively silly reasons
? Met Skittles and became the impetus for the birth of a new �edaughter.�f

This has to be a joke, right?! Just a series coincidences, yes!? Wait, let�fs ask Skittles! She knows all about souls
and whatnot so she should be able to tell, right?

�gSkittles, can you tell me if I�fm related to Kotero Ferseit in any way?�h (Kira)

Please don�ft tell me the ancient Founder King is my ancestor and that my unborn child is part of the
royal bloodline! We�fre not some upstart contenders to the throne, okay?! I don�ft need any of that sort of
attention!

�gHuh? What makes you say that?�h (Skittles)

�gWell, according to what you told me we seem, uh, quite similar...�h (Kira)

�gOh dear me, no! I don�ft know what sort of conclusion you came to, but the two of you are completely
different! I mean you�fre not even from the same world to begin with!�h (Skittles)

SAFE!

I completely forgot all about that! I�fm so glad I�fm from another world! I don�ft think I could bear to be related
to that old boisterous uncle of a King!

End of Act Eight - Lineage

The main story will take a slightly extended break over the weekend since I want to write up several of the excellent
side-story ideas you guys gave me. Maybe not all of them will be canon, but it should be good times regardless!
So consider this your last chance to leave a post I mean, comment!
Side Story - A day in the life of me, myself and I - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Skittles PoV <

Wow, they weren't kidding when they called it a feast! Look at that spread! I wasn't aware you could prepare
Northern Roc in so many ways! Is it okay, is it really okay!?

They already said it's okay. I told them to prepare a lot of food especially for you. So go ahead and enjoy yourself!

Alright, thanks boss! Then, I'll be taking charge!

Zzzzz...

Now there's an idea! I'm a bit tired so I'll be going back to sleep. Purple, wake me up if they need me for something,
okay?

You can count on me, boss!

*SNAP CRACK*

"Ugh, no matter how many times I see that, it's always creepy." (Kelly)

"Why does she insist on doing this in full view of anyone?" (Brand)

"I think... I just lost my appetite..." (Lara)

"Wait, wasn't she supposed to be a spider? Why is she forming green scales on her arms and sides?" (Roel)

"Ah, she said the green one came from a lizard. Maybe that's why?" (Ellie)

Waah! They're all staring at us! Green you dummy you should have hidden first!

Skraktakakaka.

Nuh-uh! It's way more fun to see their reactions! Like when Red used her emergency transformation yesterday! It
was really cool! Ellie's eyes almost popped out of her head!

It was an exercise in futility though.

*Sniffle* I am glad we didn't hurt anyone this time. *Sniffle* They even promised to take us back to that kind old
man's resting spot. *Sniffle* I'm so happy I could cry! Waaaa haahaa!

Red still got completely defeated though. I wonder what all those blue lights were about, they were way too
effective against her. Even though her skin repels pretty much all magic...

I DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT!

Zzzzzzz...

*SPLIT SNAP*

But you were so brave! You went up against an opponent you could never hope to defeat! All for my sake!

I SAID I DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT!

Come now, don't be shy! Watching your gallant figure and well toned body... Mmmmmm...

WHAT?

I wonder if the boss will let us both share the body for a while. I'd love to... get to know you better ~?!

*SNAP*

... WHAT?!
Ugh! Pink, are you... coming onto Red? What is wrong with you!? Sweet Enuri! I don't think I have the words for
how repugnantly wrong that is!

Mmmmfufufu... I know, it's so kinky! Just thinking about it is getting me all hot and bothered ~?!

YOU KNOW I CAN ONLY PUNCH THINGS TO DEATH, RIGHT?

I'm sure we can work something out...

AND I THOUGHT GRAY WAS BAD! THIS ONE IS ABSOLUTELY FUCKING INSANE!

Mating with yourself has no meaning, though.

Okay. I vote we let the creepy pink lady out after Green is done so that she calms the fuck down.

AGREED!

Zzzzz....

"Ahh, there we go! What'ssss up you guys! I'm Green! Pleassssed to meet you!" (Green Skittle)

"Okay. The part-spider part-woman is also part-snake. I'll be going this way now. Towards the alcohol." (Kelly)

"Yeah, pour some for me too." (Brand)

"Don't let me stop you! I'm jusssst going to assssault the buffet!" (Green Skittle)

*CHOMP GLOMP MUNCH MUNCH OM NOM NOM*

"Wow! Look at her go!" (Lara)

"But Big Sis, didn't you lose your appetite?" (Sophie)

"I thought so, but all of a sudden I feel really hungry!" (Lara)

�gThis filthy pig has absolutely no manners! How dare she disrupt Mistress�fs beautifully arranged dishes!�h
(Ariel)

"That entire table is just for her, girls. Your portions are over there. Come along now, let's leave her alone and go eat
in peace." (Ellie)

"Yeah! Hmm? Mister Roel, you coming?" (Lara A)

"Sorry... I just... the way she eats is almost like a warrior. Not a single wasted movement in her arms or jaws..."
(Roel)

Hahahaha! The master swordsman just seriously praised Green�fs pigging out! Aaahhahahaha!
"Okay! Have fun with the creepy spider lady! Come on boss! I can't wait to try that Roc Pot Pie you made!" (Lara
A)

"ROC POT PIE!? WHERE!?" (Green Skittle)

ZUBLOS HAS NO TIME FOR VERMIN WHO ARE BARELY FIT TO GROVEL AT HIS FEET!

THEM'S FIGHTING WORDS!

WAAAH! That guy not only looks scary, but his voice is super loud! D-d-d-don't let him near us, okay!?

He can't help it though. And Red, didn't you promise to behave yourself? Do you want to be grounded for real?

... NO.

"He means over there, on the left!" (Lara A)

"OH! Come to mama you delicioussss little-" (Green Skittle)

*CHOMP GULP MUNCH*

You could have taken them out of the tin first, you know.

Trying to speak to her when she's like this is completely pointless.

Can't talk, pie now!

See?

Okay, Gray! You made your point that it's pointless!

Good.

Zzzzz...

Huhuhuhu... would you just look at that! I definitely want a go at him after Green's done!

Shrakatatakat. Skrreeeek! Shrakaka! Shashahsa.

I hope not. *Sniffle* Only grief will follow if that happens.

You never know unless you try, right?

***

"Haah... that wasssss delicoussss...." (Green Skittle)

"Wow, she really finished them all. Meat and bones from a total of three Northern Rocs... So this is the power of a
titan?" (Roel)

I don't know of he's seriously admiring us or making fun of us.

He's definitely praising her! He seemed a bit stiff at first, but mister swordscat is an unexpectedly fun person, huh!?

It's been too long since I've eaten that well... Then, I'll be taking a nap. Later guys!

Oh! Does that mean it's my turn?!

Haah, yes. As much as I would like to discuss magical theory with Kiressara, I won't be able to focus if you keep
nagging me in the background. Now go do... whatever it is you have to do.

J-j-just remember! Don't use K-k-kiressara's body this time! If you do her w-wife is going to rip us apart again!

Fufufu! Understood, big sis! Then here I go once again!

*SNAP SPLIT CRACK*

I wish she'd stop calling me that.

Tratatatata! Shkrkrtktkt.

She's not wrong, you two are the technically the eldest here besides the boss.

Trying to establishing a heirarchy at this stage is useless.

Zzzzz...

I'm a bit sad I'm not the youngest anymore, though...

I wonder if they'll let me play with those two cute girls later. They look like they know a lot of fun things to do
around here! I missed having other people around to play with!

Yes... This is a good, caring family... We should not allow anything bad to happen to them...

Okay, I'm in control! Let's saunter over to the group of people peacefully enjoying themselves and be a little...
naughty!

"Huhuhu! I've come baaaack ~?!" (Pink Skittle)

"Ack! Well... at least she isn't Kira..." (Ellie)

"But... that appearance..." (Kira)

"Wah! Why does she look like me!?" (Lara A)

I think something very mean is about to happen.

Sha.

"Well you see my sweet, I'm still... inexperienced... so I can only copy what I see." (Pink Skittle)

"But why ME?!" (Lara A)

"Because you're cute! And I promised not to interfere with the, mmmm, couple over there. So how about it, want to
play with this, haahn, generous version of yourself?" (Pink Skittle)

"Don't thrust that monstrous chest at me! And stop fondling yourself in public like that, it's creepy! Get away!" (Lara
A)

"Aww... A pitty. Very well, I won't bother you. I think I might bother mister big tall and muscular over there though
~?!" (Pink Skittle)

Haah, so she really is doing that after all. I wonder if those two will be mad at us for messing with their friends like
that.

It's just a pointless fling. I don't see a problem here.

I'M TELLING YOU! THAT ONE IS COMPLETELY BONKERS!

Zzzzzz�c

�gWait what?! No. No way! Don�ft you dare do something like that! It�fs unforgivable!�h (Lara A)

�gOh? I was under the impression he�fs available, yes? So as long as he agrees, there�fs nothing wrong with the
two of us having some fun ~?!�h (Pink Skittle)

�gThere�fs definitely plenty wrong with that! Someth- Something like that is-! I will never accept it!�h (Lara A)

�gBut aren�ft you just co-workers? What he does in his free time has no impact on your, right?�h (Pink Skittle)

�gYes it does! What you want to do with my face has plenty of impact on me!�h (Lara A)

�gI see, my bad. Then how about I mix it up a bit like�c this?�h (Pink Skittle)

�gGuh! Well�c it�fs certainly not my face anymore�c But!�h (Lara A)

�gBut what? Stand aside so I can, mmmmmm, get busy ~?!�h (Pink Skittle)

�gNo! I refuse to let you near him!�h (Lara A)

�gMy dear, you don�ft have any reason to stand in my way. What you are doing right now is
misguided selfishness.�h (Pink Skittle)

�gI have plenty of reasons! I will absolutely not let you near the boss! He�fs way too kind to stoop down to your
level!�h (Lara A)

�gSuch vague feelings will not dissuade me you know ~?!�h (Pink Skittle)

�gThey are not vague!�h (Lara A)

�gThen tell me, why is it you keep getting in my way?�h (Pink Skittle)

�gBECAUSE I LOVE HIM!�h (Lara A)

�g...�h (Literally everyone there)

FROZEN PICKLES! Haruym munya munya... Zzzzzz�c

�gFufufufu. You finally said it loud and clear! Very well, I will back off.�h (Pink Skittle)

�g... Ah!�h (Lara A)

Now look what she did! That girl is too terrified to look at the scary guy! I mean, I am too, but that�fs besides the
point!

Poor girl.

That guy, why is he walking towards her like that!

�gAhh! Th-that is�c I didn�ft�c she was�c�h (Lara A)

Now he�fs putting his arms around her�c He�fs not going to strangle her is he!?

�gB-b-boss? What are you doing?�h (Lara A)

ZUBLOS ALWAYS REWARDS HIS LOYAL SERVANTS!

�gWhat�c?!�h (Lara A)

I FIND YOUR LACK OF FAITH DISTURBING, SERVANT! THE GREAT AND POWERFUL
ZUBLOS DOES NOT SUFFER ANY MISGUIDED FOOLS WHO COVET HIS BELONGINGS!

�gAh�c Hah�c Haha! You said the same thing back then too, didn�ft you? Wait, is that what you really meant
to say!? WAAH!�h (Lara A)

He�fs picked her up! Where is he taking her? Is he going to eat her!? He�fs going to devour that poor girl, isn�ft
he?!

Well, maybe not tonight, but there�fs definitely going to be some devouring going on in their future ~?! Though I
feel it is a different kind than the one big sis is thinking about ~?!

I... see...

COME, SERVANT! ZUBLOS HAS MANY DEMANDS OF YOU!

�gWhatever you say, boss! Or... do you mind if I called you h-h... honey?�h (Lara A)

ZUBLOS SHALL PERMIT THIS

�gHee hee hee�c�h (Lara A)

Wow, look at him carry her off!

This was unexpected. I am glad she will not be sad.

That relationship is meaningless though.

Is it fun to get carried like that?! She�fs waving her dangling feet in excitement!

Fufufu, it is ~?! The princess carry is really the best ~?! I personally recommend it ~?!

Zzzzz�c.

Pink, did you know this would happen from the start?

Of course! I didn�ft need titan eyes to see those two already cared for each other. All they needed was a little push
~?!

I must say, this was unexpected. You actually helped them, huh? I may have misjudged you, newbie!

Wait, where are you going all of a sudden!?

�gExcuse me, mister handsome swordsman?�h (Pink Skittles)

�gHuh? Ah, m-me?�h (Roel)

�gYes, the one who was sneaking glances at my chest ~?! How would you like to accompany me so I can,
Mmmmm, show you the rest ~??�h (Skittles)

�gI, uhm�c *Cough* Well, that is�c�h (Roel)

�gI promise you will not regret it ~?!�h (Pink Skittles)

�gThen I will, uh, graciously accept Milady Skittles�fs offer.�h (Roel)

�gAhhnn ~?! What a proper gentleman! Come right this way ~?!�h (Pink Skittles)

I�fm sure he has a lot of stamina, I can�ft wait to try him out! Ah, please don�ft be jealous, okay, Red?

I HAVE NO REASON TO BE ANYTHING OF THE SORT!

Fufufu, you trust me that much do you? I�fm so glad ~?! In that case make sure you don�ft miss a single thing - it
will be good reference for you in the future ~?!

I take it back. You�fre completely rotten to the core.

Side Story - The journey of a thousand miles may begin with a single
step, but nobody said it had to be done alone - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Dorri Flintsprocket PoV <

I stare intently at the cliff wall. The exposed gold vein glistens teasingly in the sunlight, taunting me. Mocking me.
What a cunt.

�gYou sure it will work this time?�h (Dorri)

�gI have no doubts whatsoever that we shall succeed!�h (Enuri)

�gBut we already failed twice�c�h (Dorri)

�gSo? Dis one simply may takes more den one try. There is no rush.�h (Umph)

Not for you maybe, but I�fm at the end of my rope here! These titan blokes are way too carefree! Ah, technically
speaking I�fm trying to become one of them now, so I should probably stop belittling them inside my head.

�gFear not! For I am here!�h (Enuri)

�gYes, yes, so you keep saying, mate.�h (Dorri)

I gaze up at the direction the voice is coming from. I don�ft know why though. I can�ft even see him. I get it that
he�fs this �eLightbinder�f and all, but that doesn�ft mean he gets to be invisible all the time! I can only tell
where he is by the sound of his voice, it�fs incredibly awkward! Not to mention that endless optimism of his is
really starting to really rustle my Jimmies!

�gAaaargh I need a pint! Or fifteen!�h (Dorri)

�gShort One, if dis is really dat much of a bother, perhaps you should be making this tribute all on your own,
hmm?�h (Umph)

Gah! As if I need that blockhead to get smart with me! But still, he has a point. I can�ft actually do it on my own.
That�fs why I had to ask the both of them for this favor in the first place!

�gSorry mate. I appreciate the help, I really do. I just don�ft like failing like that.�h (Dorri)

�gWorry not. Not a single one of us has succeeded in their first attempt at a Tribute to Gaia, but it is an important
step towards fully understanding what it means to be a titan.�h (Enuri)

�gIs that right? Even you had problems?�h (Dorri)

�gYes, of course! Well, technically speaking the sun still turned out a little bit wonky in the end.�h (Enuri)

�gRight�c�h (Dorri)

I get why he made it that way, the intention there is clear. Rather than suffer the randomness of Mana Storms, you
store that excess energy and release it all at once at set intervals. If you knew a Mana Storm was coming you could
prepare for the freaky weather and ride it out, rather than be caught off guard by a sudden Tri-Tornado.

The wonkiness he�fs talking about is how the sun seems to go through two phases around here. It�fs not all bad,
though. Keeps things interesting.

�gHow come you can�ft have another go at that, though?�h (Dorri)

�gHonestly, even making it this good was more or less dumb luck.�h (Enuri)

�gDat�fs putting it mildly, Shiny One. De Dark One claimed your first attempt at it failed miserably and simply
turned de sun purple. He was rolling around laughing de entire time while telling me dat.�h (Umph)

�gHaaaah, that brother of mine still has the worst personality...�h (Enuri)

�gThe Dark One?! Hold on a sec, there! I know Umph talks funny, but that sounds more than a little bit ominous!
�h (Dorri)

�gHe is simply referring to Khamis the Shadowspinner. He�fs a titan like us, though he completely hates my guts.
Do not worry, though. He is a professional and will fulfill his part for your second Trial of Creation later on, even if
he grumbles about it.�h (Enuri)

Right, the three trials. I don�ft get why, but apparently you don�ft get to go full titan without passing them.
Something about becoming one with the world�fs heartbeat? I really shouldn�ft have asked Umph to explain! I
fell asleep during the latter half of that! Well, it should be fine as long as I just roll with it.

Not to mention a necessary step if I am to see my dream come true. My soul may be ready to advance to the next
stage, but the rest of me - which is to say my �evessel�f - is falling apart. I�fve managed to make it last for
several hundred years, but it�fs reaching its limit.

�gSay, what was your Tribute to Gaia, Umph?�h (Dorri)

�gDis northern continent.�h (Umph)

�gYou focken what mate?!�h (Dorri)

�gAh, it�fs not as impressive as you might think. He just cooperated with Nora the Waterbearer to raise the ocean
floor a little bit. It�fs big in scale, but not nearly as creative as what you want to do.�h (Enuri)

�gUh-huh. And this Nora made all the oceans for her first trial?�h (Dorri)

�gNo, that�fs not it. She was born in those waters so there�fs no way she made them, you know? Anyway, her
Tribute to Gaia is on the ocean floor somewhere between the three continents. It�fs too dark for my liking so I
never went to see it.�h (Enuri)

So just like the surface is too bright for Khamis, the depths are too dark for Enuri? Seems to be a matter of
preference though. Honestly, I don�ft like the sound of this Khamis. Judging from the way he�fs spoken of he�fs
a bit of a prick. But if my plans are to succeed I think we�fll have to become neighbours at some point.

�gOkay, I think I�fve recovered enough for another try.�h (Dorri)

�gVery well. Then let us begin.�h (Enuri)

Umph walks back over and sits down behind me with a thud that shook the ground. He may be just a 4 meter tall
stone statue that�fs vaguely human-shaped, but he�fs still impossibly heavy. I think his butt left a small crater just
now...

�gReady.�h (Umph)

�gAfter you, Dorri.�h (Enuri)

�gOkay, here I go! Hrng!�h (Dorri)

I stand back up with a groan. Just moving my body around is making my bones creak, I really don�ft have much
time left in me. For now, I place my hands on the gold vein in front of me.
�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

As soon as I start forcing my mana into it, I hear a low groan-like voice coming from the very depths of the earth
while a dome of pure-white light forms around me. Enuri and Umph are already in position to support me, huh?

�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

I could really use that pint right about now.

�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

Ack, I�fm getting distracted! Focus on the image, Dorri! You can do this!

�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

It is alive. A living thing that has been my people�fs ally since time immemorial. I know all about it. It�fs literally
in my blood!

�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

Remember the smell. The weight. The color. The touch. The taste.

�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

What I have here is its ancestor. Therefore, all I need to do is imagine it giving birth. Forcing it to advance to the
next step!

�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

This time, it will succeed. I will not lose it again! Not when it�fs within reach! I simply need to stretch my hand out
and grasp it!

�g------------------------�h (Dorri)

Come forth! From across worlds, I summon you!

�g[Grand Transmutation]�h (Dorri)

*RRRUMBLE*

The ground starts shaking vigorously! A blinding light shines from within the gold-covered crack in the
mountainside in front of me, forcing me to shut my eyes! The light is so intense it passes through my eyelids,
making my vision red instead of dark!

�gHaah, haah, haah.�h (Dorri)

Once the light, the rumbling and the earthen groan all settle down, all that�fs left is the sound of my belabored
breathing. It�fs exactly like the last two times. I think it failed. No good, I don�ft think I can muster another try
today.

Hmm? What�fs this�c warm sensation on my fingers? I open my eyes and warily stare at the gold vein. My vision
becomes blurry almost immediately.

�gHyuck! *Sniffle* Hak!�h (Dorri)

The tears came out on their own. I tenderly stroke the former gold vein. This brilliant luster and nostalgic sensation
on my skin overwhelm me.
�gHello old friend. *Sniffle* I�fve missed you so.�h (Dorri)

�gSo�c this is the thing you were trying to create?�h (Enuri)

�gYes. *Sniffle* The lifeblood of the dwarves from my former world. Huaaaaah-aah-aah! I�fm so glad to see you
my old friend!�h (Dorri)

When I was first dragged here, I was filled with hope! A new world! A fresh start! An unreasonable amount of mana
to play around with! Until I learned that none of the metals so near and dear to my heart existed in this world!

�gWaahaa haa haa! How do you like me know ya bloody bastards! Showed you cunts a thing or two, didn�ft I!?
�h (Dorri)

I raise a triumphant roar to the skies! �eCan�ft be done�f they said! �eSuch a spell doesn�ft exist�f they told
me! Well who�fs laughing now!? I just created the world�fs first Mithril vein! Take that ya bloody wankers!

I turn my head around to question the living pile of stone on the ground!

�gOy Umph, did it work!?�h (Dorri)

�gIndeed. I felt it resonate with de other gold deposits deep in de ground. With some luck, it should have covered
de entire continent.�h (Umph)

�gYes! YES! Haa haa haa!.�h (Dorri)

Making a single deposit is pointless! That�fs why I needed Umph and Enuri�fs help! Enuri�fs the best at making
living things and Umph�fs quite impressive at large-scale handling of rock and soil. So while not quite the same
thing, these two helped spread the living metal known as White Gold as far as they could! I�fm a bit disappointed it
was limited to just this continent, but I�fll take it!

What next? It�fs older brother Orichalcum? Or maybe the ultimate in toughness that is Adamantite?!

Ack! My vision went dark! Did I pass out from excitement? What�fs going on!?

Gaia has accepted thy Tribute. (Voice)

�c

Huh? Ah, hello? Hello? Is this thing on? Can you hear me over there? (Voice)

�c Y-yes?

Oh! Good! For a moment there I was afraid I didn�ft get through! It happens sometimes. (Voice)

Uhm�c okay?! Just to double check, you�fre really there, right? I�fm not simply going senile in my old age, am
I?

Yes, I�fm quite real, thank you. Anyway as I was saying, your application to become a Lesser Titan has been
accepted and is pending review. The mere fact you can now understand me is a sign your soul has taken a step
forward. You are now capable of completing the second interv- I mean, the second Trial. (Voice)

Th-thanks, I guess.

You�fre very welcome. But this Mithril stuff, huh? Very good, I am thoroughly impressed! I have high hopes for
you so do not disappoint! (Voice)

I�fll�c do my best?
That�fs the spirit! Now then, off you go! You wanna finish this up before you kick the bucket for real, right? (Voice)

Yes, that�fs true, but... that second one...

Ah don�ft worry about it! Ever since Skittles showed up the second trial is a breeze for you Lesser Titan
applicants! She�fs taking a really long nap right now, but Enuri will wake her up when you get there, so there are
no further problems. (Voice)

Wait, there are ranks within the titans? And how come I�fm becoming a Lesser one!?

You got help. You showed ability, but you cheated by getting assistance from two of them. One of them is even part
of the Big Three! (Voice)

So�c these Big Three are?

Greater Titans. They passed the Trials completely on their own, so they are trusted with more power in return.
They�fre all quite exceptional. That Skittles especially! She completed them without realizing she was doing them!
Okay, maybe accepting that weird body of hers as the Tribute to Gaia was bending the rules a bit, but it truly is a
work of art! Besides, I really wanted her as the Soulforger. (Voice)

Right. And who are you supposed to be?!

The Voice of the World. (Voice)

And what sort of person are you, mister Voice of the World.

Oh, but I�fm not actually a person. (Voice)

You sure sound like one, though.

What you �ehear�f is actually your inner self trying to interpret my will. Because that is what I am - the
manifested will of this little corner of reality we call home. (Voice)

Uh-huh. You sure you aren�ft some deranged wizard trying to pull a fast one on me? Because I know quite a few
guys like that.

I�fm not. My existence closer to a defense mechanism. There�fs barely a �eme�f in the first place, so something
like deceiving people is beyond my abilities. (Voice)

Okay, let�fs say I believe you. Then what is your goal, exactly?!

My purpose is to find and raise titans like yourselves as vanguards against the entity known as the Calling. It is your
duty to prevent it from dragging us all to our doom. (Voice)

What?! I had no idea! I just wanted to selfishly recreate the people and metals from my memories, you know! Such
a thing like defending the world is a little above my pay grade!

Ah, but those acts in and by themselves strengthen the world. As long as you and your kin remain, it will help to
stave off the Calling. (Voice)

�c Is that okay!? Simply sticking around is enough?! Hey, is this world really going to be okay with just this
much!?

It will be. You will understand as you finish your other trials and complete your transformation. It�fs pointless to
think about that sort of stuff at this point. Believe me when I say this, Draglael the Steelmother. (Voice)

It�fs your loss if you mind it.

Side Story - Law Enforcement is the one industry that should definitely
not allow bad apples - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Private L. Jenkins PoV <

�gHow do you like your first month in the City Guard, Jenkins?�h (Hart)

�gCould be better. I think the Sergeant has it out for me.�h (Jenkins)

�gNah, I think he�fs actually taken a liking to you. It only took you about 40 laps to get him to stop calling you
Jerkins. I was chasing 200 by the time he stopped calling me Fart�c �g (Hart)

�gCut the chatter back there!�h (Squad Leader)

�gSir! Yes sir!�h (Hart, Jenkins)

That was bad of us. We�fre currently on patrol around the city with our 8-man squad, so idle chatter is
unprofessional. If the Sergeant catches wind of this, it�fll be 20 more laps around the training grounds!

Honestly though, I�fm actually really glad for doing all those laps. These patrol routes are loooong! Maybe
Hart�fs right and he wasn�ft just being mean-spirited? It�fs a bit hard to believe that, though. The Sergeant is
seriously scary! During sword practice I can�ft even hope to touch his shadow, let alone get a good strike on him!
Admittedly I�fve never had to use a sword before coming to Runetap, but that�fs besides the point.

I was technically a guard for 3 years back in my hometown of Nebrahoma. It was a quiet little place. No bandit
raids, no goblin attacks, not even wolves that might bother the livestock. If was so peaceful and serene that it made
me want to stab myself. I spent those 3 years standing at the gate without having to draw my sword even once! So I
moved to the most exciting place I had heard of! They say anything can happen in this city, but so far it�fs been
nothing but boring patrols...

Becoming a guard may not be the smartest thing to do, but I�fm not a smart man myself. I still want to help people,
though. It was either this or become an adventurer, but for those with nothing but the clothes on their back it was an
obvious choice! I get housing, I get training and I get arms and armor! I may not be smart, but I have pride in my
wits you know!

�gHold!�h (Squad Leader)

We stop on the Corporal�fs sudden command. I raise my awareness, but I don�ft see anything. It�fs just an old
run-down alley. Not even the road is paved. This is the third time Squad Leader has done this today. I wonder if
he�fs just testing us?

*RUMBLE*

�gI-8! Back to back! Form pairs and mind your heels!�h (Squad Leader)

Huh!? I-8? Was that the skeletons? No that was I-5�c or was it I-6?

�gJenkins!�h (Hart)

�gOof!�h (Jenkins)

Hart slams into my back with his own! Right! This is no time to zone out, I unsheathe the blade from my waist and
ready my shield.

�gHiss!�h (Moleman)
Gyah! Something came out of the dirt! About the size of a dwarf, covered in black fur, with a protruding snout and
three clawed arms attached to just under its neck! Looking around there�fs a whole bunch of them popping up all at
once!

Molemen! I-8 was a Moleman invasion!

�gYah!�h (Hart)

*SLICE*

�gHraaahk!�h (Moleman

I hear Hart taking on one of them behind me! Damn! Not even a week out of basic training and already a fight! Of
all the luck! No, pull yourself together Jenkins! This sort of excitement is literally what you wanted!

�gEeyah! Hyah!�h (Jenkins)

I start swinging my sword at the mole-like monster in front of me! I takes four swings, but I manage to kill it before
it completely emerges from the ground! Another two come up out of the dirt next to it almost immediately!

�gStand your ground! Reinforcements should be on their way!�h (Squad Leader)

That�fs right, we can�ft let these things run amok! If they spread out through the surface it�fll be bad! Who
knows what sort of damage they�fll do! For now I�fll just have to keep cutting!

***

I was naive. I thought that first I-8 was an isolated case. In the two months I�fve been a guard here I�fve already
been through three separate I-series incidents! First I-8, then an I-1 and just last week was an I-13! Just when I think
things finally settled down, we get these damn things to deal with!

*THUD*

�gHissss!�h (Mimic)

I firmly stabbed through the mimic pretending to be a cookie jar with the dagger I was issued. Telling the mimics
and regular objects apart was difficult at first, but it gets easy once you realize they can�ft stand perfectly still.
They need to breathe, after all. I withdraw my dagger from the now shriveled-up cookie jar and take another hard
look around.

*THUD*

�gHissss�c.�h (Mimic)

This time it was a cutting board. Are you an idiot? You were literally asking to get stabbed like that! You must be an
idiot!

Mimics can become anything so it�fs annoying to hunt them down. Can�ft leave them alone either or they�fll
completely devour everything in the pantry! We�fll have to survive on crackers and water for days on end if we
don�ft thoroughly clean up this G-10!

*THUD*

�c

Okay, that one�fs just a regular block of firewood. Could�fve sworn it moved just then.. A-hah!
*THUD*

�gSKREEEEEeeeee...�h (Mimic?)

Huh? That was weird.

�gHey Hart! This one made a strange noise!�h (Jenkins)

I call out to my partner who�fs busy handling his own side.

�gWhat was it!?�h (Hart)

�gA small end table!�h (Jenkins)

�gThe noise, Jenkins!�h (Hart)

�gIt screeched at me when I stabbed it!�h (Jenkins)

�gThen it�fs not a mimic! Probably a piece of sentient furniture!�h (Hart)

Now that he mentions it, the thing I stabbed isn�ft shriveling up or bleeding. I think I remember something about
that in the handbook...

�gI-17, right?!�h (Jenkins)

�gBetter check the other chairs and tables around here before you blurt that out! If you make a wrong call then
you�fll end up with more assistant librarian duty!�h (Hart)

�gGood point!�h (Jenkins)

That was close! You need at least 10 hostiles for it to qualify for an I-series incident! If a commanding officer heard
me, I�fd get punished for it! I fucking hate assistant librarian duty!

I made a spelling mistake on one of my W-1 forms recently so I had to spend the next week down there! I do not
want to go back to that dismal place! I�fm glad the Guard Captain was lenient since it was a minor mistake and my
first offense!

Right, back to the task at hand!

*THUD*

�gHissssssssss! Hik! Hik hiss!�h (Mimic)

�gWoah there!�h (Jenkins)

I unsheathe my longsword and take a stance with a double-handed grip. Dagger won�ft be enough for this one!

�gHyup!�h (Jenkins)

�gHISSSHARAARAAaaraa�c�h (Mimic)

*CRASH SMASH*

Various pots, jars and plates fall to the ground and raise a racket!

�gJenkins?! You okay!?�h (Hart)

�gYeah, fine! This time it was an entire shelf!�h (Jenkins)

Damned crafty bastard. Most of them are idiots, but it�fs these clever older ones that you gotta be careful about!
The chest-high shelf impersonator wriggled weakly as it quickly bled to death from being sliced neatly in two.

Mimics die easy once you spot them, but I think I prefer the sentient furniture from earlier. The screech was a bit
scary, but at least that end table didn�ft thrash around while spraying yellow blood everywhere. Gross.

***

�gHold!�h (Squad Leader)

Oh great. What is it this time? More undead rats coming out of the sewer?! I�fd like at least one patrol to end
without me having to fight something!

�gShields up! Squad, forward!�h (Squad Leader)

All eight of us form a small shield wall and proceed down the wide street with caution. There seems to be a panic
and it�fs spreading to the people around us. This is bad. I hear people panicking. Runetap citizens are panicking.

This is seriously bad!

�gAh crap�c S-3! Get the citizens to shelter! Go go go!�h (Squad Leader)

A UFO!? Great! That�fs just great! Of course it would happen! It was in the handbook after all! I look around us
and see a giant flaming thing coming right towards the city from the northern skies! Huh? No, wait a second!

�gSir! Sir!�h (Jenkins)

�gWhat is it Jenkins!?�h (Squad Leader)

�gIt won�ft hit us sir! It�fs going to pass overhead!�h (Jenkins)

I point at the thing that�fs falling down. I mean, if you look at it carefully it sort of looks like it�fs going up!
Means it�fll pass above us, right?!

�gOh! Brilliant observation! Perhaps you should be promoted to Captain!�h (Squad Leader)

�gR-Rea-�h (Jenkins)

�gCaptain Obvious that is! Look closer, maggot! Parts of it are falling off! Those bits will definitely hit the city!
�h (Squad Leader)

�gYes sir! Sorry sir!�h (Jenkins)

Damn�c it�fs going to be more laps for me later�c Huh? What�fs that light coming from nearby?!

Woah! A gigantic barrier formed nearby! It�fs huge! Not even the City Guard battle-mages could make one that
big! I can just see the top of it over the buildings, it looks like it safely deflected three flaming pieces that fell off
from the UFO! That was amazing! Ah, they still caused quite a bit of damage to the surrounding buildings though,
judging from those sounds and dust clouds.

Huh? Why is the Squad Leader making an annoyed face? This is a good thing, right?

�gGreat. She�fs in town.�h (Squad Leader)

I hear him mumbling about something as he stares at the disappearing barrier.

I SAID! LEAVE! ME! ALOOOOONE! (Unheard voice)

Wah! Something�fs in my head! Judging from the faces of my squad mates, they �eheard�f it to too! And now
there�fs a secondary panic coming from where that super-sized barrier was!

�gSquad regroup and follow me! Quickly!�h (Squad Leader)

We follow orders and start running through the streets towards the disturbance. Along the way I can barely hear the
Squad Leader mumbling to himself again.

�gDoesn�ft look like it�fll be a K-18�c�h (Squad Leader)

***

�gIt�fs not my fault! Honest!�h (Pickpocket)

�gRiiiight, so that merchant�fs purse jumped into your hand all on its own, did it?�h (Jenkins)

�gSure did! One of them, whatchamacallits! Mimics! Yeah!�h (Pickpocket)

�gUh-huh. �eCept mimics aren�ft actually full of gold.�h (Jenkins)

�gWell, uh, that is-�h (Pickpocket)

�gLongarm! Go drag this guy off to lockup. Show him his room, polite-like.�h (Jenkins)

�gYes, sir!�h (Longarm)

Longarm grabs the pickpocket and drags him off towards the keep. You�fd never guess he was a dwarf guardsman.
We don�ft usually let them in since the height difference interferes with making shield formations. Especially if we
have to turtle-up. Luckily for him, he�fs way taller than your average dwarf. He�fd almost pass for an extra-wide
human if it wasn�ft for the massive beard, disproportionately large arms and crippling alcoholism.

�gThe rest of you take a short break while Longarm is transporting the suspect.�h (Jenkins)

�gSir, yes sir!�h (Squad)

After nearly a year in Runetap, I finally got my own command. I heard the Sergeant really did take a liking to me
back then and fought for my promotion. I should thank him properly and buy him a drink when we�fre both off
duty the next time. As long as it�fs not that werewolf place. Last time I went there an angry dwarven lady punched
my lights out...

Actually, I should be getting ready for Autumn. It should be here in a few more weeks. Thankfully they don�ft
expect us to patrol during the 13th month. Even Runetap�fs City Guard isn�ft that committed.

�gI said! Get off! My lawn!�h (Bones)

�gWaah! Bones is coming! Run awaaay! Hahahaha!�h (Small boy)

�gBones is gonna get youuu!�h (Smaller boy)

Ah, old Bones and those kids are at it again. The �eLich King�f that tried to �einvade�f with his �eArmy of
the Damned�f from the north. Well that �earmy�f was really just three skeletal horses and a zombie boar.
Almost called in an I-10 by mistake that day. Turns out he�fs just an old necromancer�fs skeleton that retained his
memory. He wasn�ft worth wasting a pair of [Shackles of Eternal Damnation] and not much of a threat. Plus he
seemed reasonable, so we just let him off with a warning. Skeletons are fine, but zombies smell like you wouldn�ft
believe!

After we let him go, he decided sell some ancient artifacts he had on him and retire quietly. Probably made a sizable
sum considering the nice house he bought. He keeps himself covered in a dark brown robe so that his bones don�ft
show, but it still clings to his ribs whenever he moves so it�fs a wasted effort.

�gExcuse me, mister. How come you�fre always yelling at them?�h (Little girl)

Hmm? This is odd, one of the brats actually stuck around this time. Usually they just hang around his property to
annoy him then run away when he comes out screaming.

�gHuh!? What�fs it to you!? Just get away from me!�h (Bones)

�gBut you look lonely, mister.�h (Little girl)

�gLonely!? Me!? As if!�h (Bones)

�gI know you�fre actually a little bit happy whenever the others come to play though�c�h (Little girl)

�gTh-there�fs no such thing!�h (Bones)

�gIt�fs not okay to be lonely, mister! You shouldn�ft lose to whatever�fs making you sad!�h (Little girl)

�gBah humbug! Easy for you to say! You�fre still alive! Damn brats! This is why the lot of you are-�h (Bones)

The girl completely ignores his bad attitude and reaches into the little tote bag she�fs carrying around.

�gHere, have a cookie!�h (Little girl)

Bones stops mid-rant with his jaw hanging wide open, staring at the cookie the little girl is holding out. She�fs
smiling brilliantly with her whole face while holding it with both of her tiny hands.

�gGrandpa gave it to me, but you look like you need a snack more than I do!�h (Little girl)

Bones regains his composure after a few seconds and turns his head away with a 'Harrumpf!'

�gNo thanks! Don�ft want it! Not hungry!�h (Bones)

�gHuh? But it�fs really yummy! You should try it!�h (Little girl)

�g... Eating is pointless you know? Taste, touch, smell... All of it is gone... It�fs not a problem a single cookie can
solve.�h (Bones)

�gMommy says it�fs all over if you give up! She says that when there�fs a big problem, make it into smaller
problems and deal with those!�h (Little girl)

�g...�h (Bones)

�gSo! Please accept the cookie and cheer up, okay mister?! I�fm sure it will work out!�h (Little girl)

Wow, old Bones just reaches over and quietly grasps the cookie! That little brown-haired girl only looks to be about
six or seven years old, but she says some good things, huh?

�gThank you.�h (Bones)

�gYou�fre very welcome, mister!�h (Little girl)

�g... Zain Looa Wong.�h (Bones)

�gHmm? What�fs that?�h (Little girl)

�gMy name. Zain Looa Wong.�h (Zain)

�gI�fm Sophie! Good to meet you mister Zain!�h (Sophie)

Zain, huh? He never gave us his name so I had no idea. We just selfishly called him Bones since that�fs all he has.

�gSophie! There you are! Come on, let�fs go before we get in trouble for being late again!�h (Older Girl)

A slightly older equally brown-haired girl showed up.

�gOkay Big Sis! Bye mister Zain! I�fll come by to play some more later, okay?�h (Sophie)

�g�c�h (Zain)

The two girls run off down the street, going somewhere. Zain stares at them and then shifts his non-
existent face back to the cookie in his bony fingers.

�gBlasted brats. Think they know me? Bunch of hooligans. Trampling my precious lawn�c�h (Zain)

He keeps complaining under his breath as he walks back into his house and staring down at the cookie. It�fs
strange though. Even though he�fs got nothing but a bleached skull, I still get the distinct impression he�fs
smiling right now.
Chapter 123 - The burden of pregnancy can be heavier on the mind than
it is on the body - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Act Nine - Trinity

> Kira PoV <

It�fs been a week since Skittles helped us, but I still feel a bit off. Ever since that day I�fve been more in tune with
my senses than ever before! That includes my sensitivity to the flow of mana. And that sensitivity is telling me that
my mana is still being drained away, only at a much slower pace. Skittles kept saying there�fs nothing to worry
about and while she may be a titan, she�fs not all-knowing.

�gSo, how am I?�h (Kira)

So I asked for a second opinion - Nano�fs! Someone who clearly knows way more about pregnancy and the human
body than some deranged spider lady! I mean Nano is literally living inside Ellie, so that much is expected, right?!
Okay, maybe �eliving�f is the wrong word to use here.

{Well, I have some good news and some bad news.}

�gBad news!?�h (Kira)

I almost stand up from my bed in a panic, but-

�gIt�fs okay Kira. I�fm sure it�fs something we can handle.�h (Ellie)

-a soothing voice and gentle embrace from beside me instantly calm me down. I am so glad she�fs here for me.
It�fs a good thing we�fre in our bedroom again, that sort of outburst isn�ft something I want to show people.

�gOkay. Give me the bad news?�h (Kira)

{It�fs a bit too hard to explain. To begin with, it seems that the child is still growing at an accelerated rate, yet
you�fre showing very few signs of pregnancy.}

�gWhat? Then what do you call this?!�h (Kira)

I point at my bulging belly for emphasis. It�fs gotten quite noticeable lately!

{Not what I meant. A woman�fs body goes through many changes as the pregnancy progresses, yet yours has
shown pretty much none of those!}

�gLike what?�h (Kira)

{Like morning sickness. That should be one of the first signs of being pregnant, yet in your case the first symptom
you showed was when you collapsed in broad daylight!}

�gWell�c maybe it was because of the whole�c no-soul situation?�h (Kira)

{If it was just that, I might agree. However, there are many more symptoms you aren�ft showing. Like how your
breasts should be getting larger and more sensitive.}

�g... And how do you know they aren�ft?�h (Kira)

{I, uh, have my sources.}

�gEllie!�h (Kira)

Is that why she�fs been fondling them so much recently?!

�gHmm?�h (Ellie)

�gDon�ft talk to other people about that sort of thing! It�fs really embarrassing!�h (Kira)

�gNano isn�ft a person, though?�h (Ellie)

�g... Oh. OH! No, you�fre right. Sorry about that, Nano.�h (Kira)

{It�fs okay. It was simply necessary to ask.}

�gNano, I don�ft think you told us what part of that is the bad news yet.�h (Ellie)

{Right. What I was trying to say is I have no idea what�fs going on with Kira or her baby. It�fs completely outside
my knowledge. So while I am certain Kira isn�ft just imagining this mana draining sensation, I can�ft say for sure
what could be causing it.}

�gSo�c you�fre saying�c�h (Kira)

{In short, the bad news is we�fre going to have to improvise.}

�c

�gAnd the good news?�h (Kira)

{I�fve gotten pretty damn good at improvising lately.}

�gNano will find a way. If not, he will find a way to find the way!�h (Ellie)

�gAlright. So I assume you already have an idea. What is it?�h (Kira)

I have to admit, Nano�fs pretty good at piecing things together. We already dropped Draglael off at Ecebis, but we
can still run his idea by Skittles, see what she thinks. I�fm really glad she decided to stick around at least until the
baby is born. We may need to rely on her yet again.

{Now, as I was saying, your body isn�ft doing a lot of things it should be. One of those is demanding more food. I
think that may be a hint at what�fs really going on.}

�gBut I�fm eating everything you gave me, right? Was it not enough?�h (Kira)

Ever since I was bedridden Nano had been preparing my meals separately. While not literally �eeating for two,�f
my portions did seem to be slightly larger than normal.

{No, it was enough. I dare say it may even be a bit too much.}

�gThen�c that�fs fine, isn�ft it?�h (Kira)

{It would be. If it were a human baby. I didn�ft realize it at the time since there were no complications, but this
baby is developing three times faster than normal! Shouldn�ft it demand three times the nutrition? Turns out it
doesn�ft. That does not make sense. And whenever something doesn�ft make sense to me, it involves magic.}

�gWhat are you getting at?�h (Kira)

{Think about it - Puff got an overdose of your mana while he was an egg and grew rapidly as a result. Not to
mention the whole fire-breathing thing. And this child absorbed much more mana than that so far. Even if it was
trying to 'fill the void' of being created without a soul, that amount of mana is not something that simply disappeared
into nothingness. What I�fm getting at, is that it�fs possible it developed a taste for it.}

�gSo you�fre telling me... my child is trying to eat my mana?�h (Kira)

{Rather than trying to, I�fd say it�fs already eating it.}

�gThat... can�ft happen. Something like �eeating�f mana is impossible! Even I will admit to that!�h (Kira)

{You told us there are slimes to the east that-}

�gMY CHILD IS NOT A MONSTER!�h (Kira)

I scream at the top of my lungs, ready to fly into a rage! But Ellie�fs there to comfort me immediately�c She
strokes my cheek while whispering gently into my ear.

�gIt�fs okay, Kira. You know Nano isn�ft just being mean.�h (Ellie)

She�fs right. I know she is. But I still can�ft accept it that easily.

�g... I�fm sorry, Ellie. I�fm just scared. It�fs been nagging at me for a while. I�fm trying not to mind it, but
Nano and Skittles both call our child things like �eabnormal�f or �eclearly not human.�f�h (Kira)

Such gloomy thoughts are unlike me, so I tried to ignore them. But�c that�fs little more than running away from
the truth. The more I think about it, the more I hug my belly, tryint to shelter it.

�gI�fm worried, Ellie. I�fm worried the world will shun our baby. That it won�ft accept it�c What if people
one-sidedly decide it�fs a monster and come after it? After US?!�h (Kira)

�gI see. Kira is desperate to protect our child from harm.�h (Ellie)

�g... Yes.�h (Kira)

�gBut Kira, tell me. Do you know anyone who would do such a thing? Any one person that would dare get in the
way of our happiness?�h (Ellie)

�gWell�c no�c Not specifically�c But people talk. Rumors run out of control.�h (Kira)

�gSo? Since when did anyone in this house ever pay attention to those?�h (Ellie)

�gBut what about the people in the street! The masses as a whole!?�h (Kira)

�gThey�fre unrelated.�h (Ellie)

�gThey are not! What if an angry mob suddenly barges into our home!? Or an assassin! Or we lure in some weird
monster! Or maybe the whole country decides we�fre a threat!?�h (Kira)

�gKira. You�fre selfishly overthinking things again.�h (Ellie)

�g... I am?�h (Kira)

�gEven if all those things come at us, do you think I would ever allow anyone to hurt my family?�h (Ellie)

�gNo�c But then you�fll-�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs not just me, you know. Nano, Kelly and Ariel will support us and our children no matter what happens. I
know you may not fully trust the King or those titans, but please believe in the people around you. Even if the whole
world becomes our enemy, I will find a way to protect our happiness.�h (Ellie)
She wraps her arms around my shoulders and pulls me in afor a light, wet kiss. Then, with our foreheads touching,
she stares deeply into my eyes and flashes me a smile that seems to washe away all my worries.

�gSince I�fm the wife.�h (Ellie)

I feel my face heating up. I�fm pretty sure I�fm blushing right now. Ellie is not playing fair! Since when did she
become this reliable?! There�fs no way I can compete with that! She�fs just way too perfect!

�gThanks, beautiful. I needed that.�h (Kira)

�gAny time, Kira. Besides, you forgot something very important.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat�fs that?�h (Kira)

�gDon�ft we already know a place that will accept our child with no questions asked?�h (Ellie)

�gAh!�h (Kira)

That�fs right! We do know of one!

A bizarre place that can�ft stop attracting trouble!

A noisy town where an Ancient Evil runs a cake shop!

A city that got pooped on by a passing dragon for no discernable reason!

An odd community that is more concerned with running out of booze than being invaded.

...

�gUhm, Ellie? That�fs a bit...�h (Kira)

�gYes, I realized it the moment I said it.�h (Ellie)

�gLet�fs just call that Plan B for the moment.�h (Kira)

�gAgreed.�h (Ellie)

Living there is fine, but it�fs not a good place for raising children. I�fm worried it�fs already been a bad
influence on Sophie and Lara. Their common sense has been getting a bit weird lately.

Yes. On second thought let�fs not go to Runetap. It is a silly place.

Chapter 124 - If it happened two times, it will happen a third - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gThere you go�c just like that�c�h (Ellie)

�gO-okay�c What next?�h (Kira)

�gPut one finger there�c and the other one there�c�h (Ellie)

She gently yet firmly guides my fingers around the side and into the opening.

�gYou�fre too stiff, Kira. You need to loosen up a little.�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm�c I�fm not so sure about this�c It won�ft hurt, right?�h (Kira)

I�fve never done this before so I�fm really nervous!

�gIt won�ft. In fact, when you do it right, it feels really good.�h (Ellie)

She reassuringly puts a hand on my shoulder and whispers into my ear. My tense body eases up just a little.

�gPerfect. Now remember what I showed you last night. Gently now...�h (Ellie)

I follow the sound of her voice as I slowly flex my finger. And then-

*Pachew*

-the thing in my hands suddenly kicks back with a flash of light and a weird noise!

*Splatt*

The bright blue something that flew out of the end hit the wooden dummy I was pointing it at! It burned a
smoldering hole halfway through it!

�gWell done, Kira! You hit it on the first try! I expected nothing less!�h (Ellie)

Ellie practically jumps for joy next to me.

�gSo? So? How was it?�h (Ellie)

�gIt felt�c pleasant. That jolt it sent through me was oddly satisfying!�h (Kira)

It was a weird sensation. The slight shock seemed to travel up my arms, through my shoulders, into my torso and
down to my feet. I was expecting it to rattle my bones like an explosion. But what I felt was actually much less
violent. Almost like a solid pat on the back.

�gWant to try a few more shots?!�h (Ellie)

�gI don�ft know. I feel a bit odd training to use a weapon.�h (Kira)

�gKira, it�fs a mistake to think of it as a weapon. It�fs a tool. Whether you use or misuse it is all up to you! Just
like magic!�h (Ellie)

�gOh! I see!�h (Kira)

Thinking of it that way makes me feel a lot more comfortable. It�fs not something that exists solely to hurt people,
is it? It�fs only a weapon if I use it like one. Just like my magic!

Hmm? Wait a second�c Doesn�ft that mean my magic is potentially the most terrifying weapon of all? Surely
that�fs just my imagination, right? Oh well, it�fs my loss if I think too deeply about it.

�gNow, take your stance and fire off a few more!�h (Ellie)

�gOkay!�h (Kira)

I resume the stance Ellie showed me earlier and firmly hold out my birthday gift with both hands. I lign it up just
like earlier and squeeze the trigger!

*Pachew*

I put another thumb-sized hole into the wooden dummy! This is great! Let�fs try chaining a few of those together!

*Pachew pachew*

Every time it kicks it seems to fill me with confidence!

*Pachew pachew*

At first I had no idea why Ellie insisted on using the full name every time, but I think I�fm starting to understand!

*Pachew pachew*

The PLR-45 Sidearm. I see now! Omitting any part of that designation would be disrespectful to its maker!

*Pachew pachew*

*Beepbeepbeepbeepbeep*

�gAh! Ellie?!�h (Kira)

�gRelax Kira. It�fs just telling you it needs to cool off. The safety measure we talked about, remember?�h (Ellie)

�gAh! Right! So�c I just grab here and pull back on the top, right?�h (Kira)

�gYes, that�fs right, just make sure there�fs nothing blocking the sides at the front first.�h (Ellie)

�gOkay�c Here I go!�h (Kira)

I tighten my grip the top bit and pull back. Something gives way after I put in a bit of strength into my fingers and
the top part slides halfway towards me, exposing a trio of oval-shaped holes on either side of the front.

*PTSUUUUUUUuuuu*

Steam blasts out of the holes while the beeping noise fades away. Once both the steam and the little red light have
stopped, I let go of the top and it slides back into place with a satisfying click!

�gThat�fs the way, Kira! You�fre really good at this!�h (Ellie)

Wow, she�fs way more excited than I am! She looks to be having more fun than me, and I�fm the one using it!
Ah, I�fm actually having fun with this, aren�ft I?

�gI just had a wonderful teacher ~?! Thank you so much for the wonderful gift, Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)
It was a really good choice after all. Whether I actually use it in the field is irrelevant - just idly taking shots at
dummies with it is super fun!

�gHehehe!�h (Ellie)

Of course, it can never compare to the biggest gift of all. The one Ellie�fs been giving me every single day since I
met her - that wonderful carefree smile!

�gHow�fs it going out here, Red?�h (Kelly)

Kelly greets us as she exits the tower. Judging from the various fresh stains on her leather work clothes, she must
have just came out of the basement.

�gHey Kelly.�h (Kira)

�gAh Kira! Put the safety on!�h (Ellie)

�gOh, right!�h (Kira)

I push against a tiny lever on the side with my fingertip. It slides forward and makes a tiny click. This is to make
sure it doesn�ft accidentally go off while I�fm holding it. Whoever made this thing really knew their stuff!

�gDone!�h (Kira)

�gGreat job! Next I�fll show you how to properly clean and maintain it!�h (Ellie)

�gYou two seem to be enjoying yourselves. Must be going well.�h (Kelly)

�gYeah! Kira�fs amazing! She�fs way better at it than you are!�h (Ellie)

�gEllie! That�fs rude!�h (Kira)

�gNah, it�fs fine. I can�ft grip that thing properly while I�fm wearing scrappy, so it�fs not useful to me
anyway.�h (Kelly)

�gAlso! Also! Kira is a really great shot! Look!�h (Ellie)

Kelly�fs eyesight follows Ellie�fs finger, coming to rest on the smoldering wooden dummy.

�gWow, she hit it quite a few times, didn�ft she? Huh? Wait, aren�ft the holes on that oddly concentrated?�h
(Kelly)

�gWhat do you mean?�h (Kira)

�gWell�c What were you aiming at, exactly?�h (Kelly)

�gA weak point. Human-shaped monsters usually have a lot of the same weak spots that regular people have, right?
�h (Kira)

Also, it�fs a lot easier to aim than magic. You just point and pull back on the trigger! It even has sights to help you
aim and it doesn�ft fall off or veer to the side if you lose focus! Compared to something like controlling a [Quake]
or directing a [Firebolt], this just feels like cheating!

�gYeah. That much makes sense. But what I want to know is why that weak spot in particular!?�h (Kelly)

�gIt�fs a good choice for disabling a person without endangering their life, right Ellie?�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs theoretically right, although it�fs still dangerous. This thing does horrible things to flesh. I would
suggest you completely avoid using this unless you want to kill something.�h (Ellie)

�gYou make a good point. I really don�ft think I want to point this thing at other people...�h (Kira)

I heard about what happened to poor Skittles when she was subjected to a sustained barrage from this guy�fs
bigger brothers. I almost lost my lunch that day. That purple one is really detailed with her descriptions, isn�ft she?

�gI figured you would say something like that, Red. I get what you mean, I really do. It�fs just that, even though
it�fs only a wooden dummy, I don�ft think any decent person would aim solely for the crotch like you did�c�h
(Kelly)

�gNever mind the details, how�fs your end coming along?�h (Kira)

�gHm? Ah, right. I�fm a bit stuck right now. I broke one of the connector bits since I messed up while assembling
the prototype. It was the last one I had, but it shouldn�ft be a problem once we get back to the capital tomorrow.
The first crop is just about ready.�h (Kelly)

I�fve seen a few of those parts Nano needs and some of them look really delicate. I wonder if they�fll be alright
with all that shaking? Well, Nano�fs got it figured out, so my random prodding won�ft help anyone.

�gI see. I appreciate all the hard work. Thanks, Kelly.�h (Kira)

�gYeah. And I look forward to my next paycheck.�h (Kelly)

�ePleasure working with you too�f huh? I wish she�fd drop the mercenary speak already. Still, I�fm seriously
glad she�fs spearheading this.

The goal right now is to make it possible for people to manufacture and assemble that thing without Nano�fs help,
so some trial and error is to be expected. Once Kelly is able to do it completely by herself then we�fll be ready to
show it off in front of the King.

Wouldn�ft want him to think we were being completely idle all this time.

***

�g-and we should be able to present the assembled device in a week or so.�h (Kira)

�gSo you weren�ft being completely idle all this time?!�h (King Fred)

I knew it! It was a good idea to pay him a visit the instant we were back in the capital.

�gI�fm just kidding. Lighten up a bit! So, are you healthy enough to assume your post?�h (King Fred)

�gI am for the moment, Your Majesty. Ellie and Nano will have to serve as my proxies for a while, though.�h
(Kira)

Thanks to Nano I can technically do my job without leaving our house, but it�fs important to show up in person
whenever possible.

�gWell, you�fre more of a decision-maker rather than a laborer, so that much should suffice.�h (King Fred)

�gPlease don�ft make it sound like others will be doing all the actual work.�h (Kira)

�gOh? Am I wrong in thinking that?�h (King Fred)

�gNo. I just don�ft like it when you point it out.�h (Kira)

�gHah! Hahaha!�h (King Fred)

Well, that was the agreement. As director of the Ministry of Progress my job will mostly be, as one might expect,
directing others. Coordinating effort, deciding on what project to tackle next, keeping the king informed of how
things are going, securing a supply of raw materials and talent - that sort of thing.

Nano and Kelly will be doing most of the prototyping while a small army of laborers and workers will be handling
the transition into mass production or implementation once we�fve gotten that far with an idea. Ellie�fs job is to
sit right by my side and keep being perfect.

It�fs a super important position you know!

�gFuuuu. I missed having you around, Mrs Quasse! Now, since you seem to have more or less have your illness
under control, care to tell me exactly what it was? Your sudden collapse and equally sudden departure left us all
quite worried.�h (King Fred)

�gWell, Your Majesty, that is�c a bit difficult to explain. It�fs a complicated situation.�h (Kira)

I idly stroke my protruding belly over the white gown Skittles made for me. The fabric feels really nice against my
skin. Ellie�fs wearing one too, although I think white isn�ft really her color. I should ask Skittles if she can dye
these in some way.

�gComplicated? In what way? Did you get pregnant or something?�h (King Fred)

�gOh my! Your Majesty�fs insight is truly formidable!�h (Kira)

�g... Huh?�h (King Fred)

�gIt�fs true! I was blessed with Ellie�fs child during the last day of Autumn!�h (Kira)

�gWhat?!�h (King Fred)

�gThere were some complications, which led to that unfortunate incident at the arena. However, both me and my
child are doing just fine after a quick visit to some titan friends of mine!�h (Kira)

�gAh. Titans, huh?�h (King Fred)

�gThat�fs right! As luck would have it, one of them was actually a friend of your ancestor, the First Magus of the
Order of the Eye - Kotero Ferseit!�h (Kira)

�gIs that a fact?�h (King Fred)

�gOh yes! She�fs very eager to meet with her comrade�fs descendant, so she came with us!�h (Kira)

�gDid she now? And where is this friend of yours?�h (King Fred)

�gShe�fs waiting back at our tower right now! Her appearance would probably disturb your retainers, so we�fre
having her wait there until we can arrange a proper meeting!�h (Kira)

�gUh huh. Right. Mrs Quasse, mind if I ask you a question?�h (King Fred)

�gNot at all, Your Majesty.�h (Kira)

Ellie, who was standing quietly by my side, suddenly leaped out in front of me and assumed a defensive posture!

�gHuh?�h (Kira)
�gDo you take me for a complete fool!?�h (King Fred)

�gEep!�h (Kira)

The King got mad! He got super mad! I can almost see veins bulging on his forehead!

�gI tolerate a lot of things, Mrs Quasse. Especially when it comes to you! But, that�fs under the assumption you
are being upfront about your activities!�h (King Fred)

Scary! Angry King is scary! His voice is so forceful that it feels like it�fs physically pressing down on me!

�gWhy is it that you had to tell me outrageous stories like these!? Even if you were having an affair-�h (King
Fred)

�gKira! Was! Not! Lying!�h (Ellie)

Ack! Ellie isn�ft losing out in volume!

�gAnd how do you know that?! How can you so easily believe all that?! Are you sure she�fs not fooling you as
well!?�h (King Fred)

�gAbsolutely! I trust Kira without question!�h (Ellie)

�gWell, I�fm not as delusional as you seem to be! I demand proof!�h (King Fred)

�gOkay! You asked for it! Nano, do it!�h (Ellie)

{Aye, aye!}

Wait�c What do you mean �eAye, aye?�f Didn�ft you say the same thing just before you subdued Red
Skittles?! Is this why Nano insisted we stop directly over the castle!? You�fre not seriously going to attack the king
with those weapons are you!?

*CRASH*

�gUwah!�h (Kira)

�gGah!�h (King Fred)

Something just burst through the glass window and landed between Ellie and the king! Something big, purple and
multi-legged!

�gSKREEEEK! Oops! I mean - Greetings, Your Majesty! The Second Magus of the Order of the Eye is here to pay
her respects to the First.�h (Purple Skittle)

Purple Skittles regains her footing before making an elegant bow with her upper body. Her lower spider half sat
gently on the ground. The white robe-like clothing she�fs wearing clings to her slender body, while long purple
hair falls out from under her pointy white hat, hanging down to her waist.

There�fs an odd moment of silence while the king stares slack-jawed at this intruder. I�fm no different though!
What is going on here?!

�g... It can�ft be�c�h (King Fred)

*SLAM*

The double doors we came from open and a whole bunch of armed guards start pouring in! The blonde knight-
looking person in the front seems to be in charge!

�gMy liege! Fan out men! Protect His Majesty from that monster!�h (Blonde Knight)

This is bad. This is seriously bad! What is that looney spider even thinking!? She�fs just sitting there perfectly still!

�gStand down, Percy!�h (King Fred)

�gYour Majesty?! Surely you-�h (Percy)

�gSer Percival! Your King ordered you to stand down! Don�ft you dare put so much as a scratch on anyone or
anything in this room!�h (King Fred)

Wah! The loud part of him came out again! I still can�ft believe there�fs an actual authoritative presence
underneath all that casual attitude!

�gY-yes! At once, sire! You heard the King, men! Stand down!�h (Percy)

At his orders, the soldiers warily put down their weapons! That was close! If Red came out in the middle of the
castle it wouldn�ft end with a simple apology!

�gGood. Leave us.�h (King Fred)

�gBut-�h (Percy)

�gNow! All of you!�h (King Fred)

�g...As you command, sire.�h (Percy)

The blonde knight swiftly orders his men to retreat and departs from the scene. It�fs just me, Ellie, the king and a
still bowing purple Skittles between us.

�gI�c I�fm going to have to lie down for a while. Excuse me.�h (King Fred)

The king actually stood up from his throne! He walked shakily to one of the cushioned sofas on the side of the room
and lies down. He�fs gonecompletely limp.

Seeing that the king has apparently checked out for a while, Skittles gets up, walks over and pokes him a few times.

There's no response. Just like a corpse. She turns around and gives us a shrug of her shoulders.

"Well, then." (Ellie)

Taking it as a sign, Ellie walks over to the servant entrance and opens it slightly.

"Excuse me, miss? Can we get some tea, please?" (Ellie)

"Just a sec, dearie!" (Servant)

"Thank you!" (Ellie)

Ellie walks back next to me and hugs my arm with a satisfied smile.

Yeah, tea sounds good right now.

Chapter 125 - Conversations are a lot like minefields, except you won't
lose a leg for a misstep in the former - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gMrs Quasse. Lady Ellie. I wish to apologize for my earlier outburst.�h (King Fred)

The first thing the king did after waking up was bow his head to us. While I appreciate the sincerity, I get the distinct
impression there�fs more to this than a simple misunderstanding.

�gMay I ask what this is really about, Your Majesty?�h (Kira)

He throws a look at each of us. Ellie�fs gazing lovingly at me while hugging my arm, so she doesn�ft even notice.
Skittles on the other hand is just standing there, smiling at nothing in particular. I guess she�fs happy her old
friend�fs descendant is doing well.

Having decided something, the King quietly sits on his throne and gives us a serious look.

�gThere are legends passed down among my family. Tales that speak of an eccentric half-spider half-woman. One
that is hailed as co-founder and Second Magus of the Order of the Eye. A great person who performed many deeds
in service to the Founding King and the people of this land. It is said that without her assistance, this Kingdom
would likely never exist.�h (King Fred)

�gHmm? I never did anything like help establish a country though.�h (Purple Skittle)

The King blinks a few times at Skittles.

�gWhat about the liberation of the northern plains? Were you not the one who single-handedly defeated the threat
of the Stone Giants?�h (King Fred)

"Uhh..." (Purple Skittle)

Since Skittles is obviously lost in thought, I think I�fll ask a question.

�gExcuse me, but what are Stone Giants? I don�ft believe I�fve ever heard of those.�h (Kira)

I do know of the peaceful 4 meter tall Mountain Giants like Grandmaster Kilroy, the lazy 8 meter tall Hill Giants in
the plains to the west and the rumored 10 meter tall Sand Giants on the southern continent.

�gAccording to the stories they were taller than most towers and had skin made of stone. They kept attacking and
wrecking frontier villages and towns until the Second Magus cleared them all out.�h (King Fred)

�gOh! Now I remember! One of those things stepped on White completely on purpose so Red seriously flipped her
shit. She took down hundreds of them and ended up wiping them out completely before she was able to calm
down.�h (Purple Skittle)

Eep! Okay, I think I�fm starting to understand why Draglael was so scared of her! I shudder to think what
would�fve happened to Ellie if that Red one actually landed a hit on her!

�gI�fm sorry, but who are these White and Red?�h (King Fred)

�gMy sisters.�h (Purple Skittle)

Well, that�fs not wrong.

�gSo it wasn�ft you that culled those walking disasters?�h (King Fred)

�gIt was, and yet it wasn�ft. We all share the same body and take turns coming out to play, you see. All part of us
being a titan, you see! The boss - I mean, White just happened to be out for a stroll and Red came out for some
payback since those guys attacked her!�h (Purple Skittle)

�gA stroll... So it was a coincidence? But then, what about the miracle of Ser Ludwig?�h (King Fred)

The miracle of Ser Ludwig? Wasn�ft that the legendary knight who was afflicted with a deadly curse? If the stories
are true, he was healed by a kind sage and lived on to accomplish many heroic deeds, even made an order of knights
that served the Kingdom faithfull for centuries. His stories are quite popular among bards.

�gNo idea who that is.�h (Purple Skittle)

�gUhm, a one-eyed, black-haired knight who wielded a red-tinged greatsword. He was supposedly saved by your
act of kindness.�h (King Fred)

So, the kind sage from that story is Skittles?!

�gOh that guy?! I think I remember him. He was quite rude and constantly stumbled around the village in
a horribly drunken state. My Orange sister wanted to pull a prank on him so she threw together this disgusting drink
and offered it to him. He ended up puking for three days straight and quit drinking completely.�h (Purple Skittle)

The deadly curse was alcoholism. Haah. I don�ft know what I expected honestly. The King is equally struggling to
find words for this revelation.

�gT-then what about the construction of the first White Wall around Kotero?�h (King Fred)

�gBrown went overboard making a nest.�h (Purple Skittle)

�gThe unification of the human tribes?�h (King Fred)

�gThose weird people that kept one-sidedly pledging themselves to my service? They were annoying so I just sent
them to Teacher.�h (Purple Skittle)

�gThe taming of the Eagle Forest?�h (King Fred)

�gOne of Green�fs overeating sprees.�h (Purple Skittle)

�gSo�c most of those acts were just�c coincidences?!�h (King Fred)

�gSeems like it. We had no idea someone was trying to make a Kingdom here until Kiressara informed us.�h
(Purple Skittle)

�gI see�c Coincidences. Heh. Our Kingdom was founded on top of a series of whims. Hehe. Heh heh hee! HAH
HAH HAHAHAHA!�h (King Fred)

He�fs laughing maniacally now. His smile is so wide it makes his face look broken.

�gHAH HAH HAA! Aaah. This is great! No wonder those stories barely made any sense! To think it was like that!
They didn�ft even mention something like you being immortal, you know!�h (King Fred)

�gAll titans are immortal though?�h (Purple Skittles)

�gThat wasn�ft mentioned either! No wonder I couldn�ft just swallow that story earlier! I said some outrageous
things, didn�ft I? Ack, I almost forgot!�h (King Fred)
Aaah�c He got up just to bow down to us again.

�gMrs Quasse. I once again apologize for the things I said. I had mistakenly assumed you had somehow found out
about the royal family�fs untold history and were somehow trying to take advantage of it. It is my hope you will
forgive me for suggesting you were unfaithful.�h (King Fred)

�g...�h (Kira)

�gSince you apologized properly, we�fll forgive you. Right, Kira?�h (Ellie)

�gAh. Yes! Of course!�h (Kira)

Thank goodness Ellie is here! I was struck speechless by how rapidly this guy changes his mood! You really can�ft
underestimate him after all!

�gThank you. So this matter of your pregnancy - I assume you were being completely serious about it, yes?�h
(King Fred)

�g... That�fs right.�h (Kira)

�gI see, it was like that. Congratulations you two! I hope your child grows up to do great things. In fact, I�fm
counting on it!�h (King Fred)

�gThanks, Fred!�h (Ellie)

�gVery good! Now if you�fll excuse me, I would like to have some words with the Second Magus.�h (King
Fred)

He puts on his usual goofy expression and sits back on his throne.

�g... That�fs it?�h (Kira)

�gHm?�h (King Fred)

�gNo questions or doubts or anything?�h (Kira)

�gAbout what?�h (King Fred)

�gAbout my condition?�h (Kira)

He�fs still a king you know! I think he�fs entitled to suspecting people, even if a little!

�gMrs Quasse, I just witnessed a living legend crash through a window and strike a pose. I also found out this
Kingdom was basically founded by accident. I�fm sure you have some outlandish and unbelievable explanation for
your circumstances, but I will hear it some other time. I already lost once today, I don�ft plan on losing a second
time.�h (King Fred)

***

This plaza in front of the Adventurer�fs Guild HQ building is as busy as ever.

�gHow�fd it go at the castle?�h (Kelly)

Kelly greets Ellie and me as we approach the meeting spot. She�fs here with Roel and Brand. Ariel is taking the
kids on a short walk around town.

�gThere was some yelling and a small uproar, but it ended rather well.�h (Kira)
�gSo we won�ft be toppling the Kingdom?�h (Kelly)

�gNo. Not today anyway.�h (Ellie)

�gDamn. I was hoping to have Stompy make his debut. Watching Skittles fling herself off the tower earlier really
got me fired up!�h (Kelly)

...

Let�fs just graciously forget that part of the conversation ever happened.

�gSkittles will be visiting the royal crypt to pay her respects to the First Magus so she won�ft be back for a while.
Ah, Roel! Here, the King wanted me to give you this.�h (Kira)

I hand him a small slip of paper with the royal seal on it. That be the proof that he successfull completed the escort
job from the King. I�fm a little jealous, the compensation for that ought to be really good.

�gMuch obliged, Mrs Quasse. I guess with this, my duty is fulfilled.�h (Roel)

�gGood! Now that this little incident is over, I�fm gonna go check on my men and the senators. I left in a bit of a
huff, so hopefully they won�ft be too mad at me.�h (Brand)

�gIt was good to have you along Major. Give my best to Shull too, our own gryphons learned quite a bit from
him.�h (Kira)

�gThink nothing of it. If anything we should be thanking you - it�fs been too long since we were in a good old-
fashioned dogfight. Besides, we got plenty of Roc Jerky! That stuff tastes great when paired with a good pint!�h
(Brand)

�gNow we�fre talking! Come on big guy! Let�fs go get pissed! We�fve been dry for too long!�h (Kelly)

�gI like the way you think, Kelly! Let's go get tha cousin of yours and turn it into a proper part!�h (Brand)

�gBrand, you�fre a bloody genius!�h (Kelly)

And there they go, off to make trouble at the nearest pub. I won�ft complain though. We ended up running out of
ale on the way back, so both of them ended up being a little on edge for the last three days. Especially Kelly.

�gI must thank you as well, Mrs Quasse. It was good to experience a good, old fashioned adventure after all this
time!�h (Roel)

Roel spoke up after the two noisy dwarves made their exit.

�gIt had everything! Making unlikely allies. Traveling to uncharted and inhospitable lands. Fighting against
hundreds of monsters. Meeting ancient enigmatic beings. An unlikely couple finding love. Rescuing a damsel in
distress. We even had a grand feast to celebrate!�h (Roel)

He closed his eyes and put a hand on his chin as he recounted what had happened. A satisfied grin appears on his
face. He�fs leaving a lot out of it, but I guess those things did happen. I don�ft particularly mind how he chose to
remember the whole thing. That is, if it wasn�ft for one very important detail.

�gI�fm no damsel though. I�fm very happily married.�h (Kira)

I can forgive him glossing over other things, but that is the one thing I will not allow to be omitted!

�gBut you were in distress and you no longer are. I think that�fs the important bit.�h (Roel)
Some part of me feels ticked off at his attitude, but let�fs not ruin the mood with petty remarks.

�gThe only complaint I have is not witnessing the infamous [Red Sage] in action for myself, but that is just me
being selfish. I�fm just glad my last job turned out to be this memorable.�h (Roel)

�gLast job?�h (Kira)

�gYes. I�fve been thinking about retiring for a while now, actually. It�fs high time I settled down and found
some disciples so I can pass on my techniques and teachings. You humans probably can�ft tell, but I�fm already
in my 40s.�h (Roel)

Wow! He�fs right, I had no idea! Can�ft see wrinkles under all that fur after all! Even then, it�fs hard to believe
with how he moves around. He�fs awfully spry for an old man. As expected of a seasoned adventurer, huh?

�gSo will you be looking to become an instructor at the Military Academy?�h (Kira)

�gNo. That place exists for the sole purpose of raising officers, knights and soldiers who will serve His Majesty.
While it�fs a noble pursuit, it�fs too different from my path of the sword. I was actually planning on opening my
own dojo after showing off at the tournament.�h (Roel)

Well, it�fs not surprising. Many adventurers aim to stop running around fighting monsters once they have enough
money and connections to start their own business. Roel must have plenty of both after being an active Rank A for
so long.

That reminds me, I should do a few commissions myself. Wouldn�ft want to get suspended for inactivity, after all.

�gI am also looking forward to facing Ellie. Our first bout was interrupted before we could even cross swords.�h
(Roel)

�gHmm? What? Oh right, the tournament! That thing is still going on?�h (Ellie)

Ellie, who was thoroughly preoccupied in gazing at my profile while gently rubbing my belly, stammered out a
response.

�gI went to speak with the organizers along with Brand and Zublos while you were visiting the King. Since all
participants are now able to compete, they will be restarting the finals at the beginning of the third month. The
judges have also overturned Ellie�fs unjustified disqualification after learning the circumstances.�h (Roel)

�gSorry, but I don�ft think I will be taking part in that tournament though.�h (Ellie)

�gThat is�c unexpected. May I ask why?�h (Roel)

�gThere are more important things in my life than some petty squabble.�h (Ellie)

He looks questioningly at me. I guess it�fs impossible to discern the meaning behind those words for an outsider.

�gHer reason for joining the tournament in the first place was to teach Zublos a lesson about responsibility. It
would seem she no longer thinks it�fs necessary.�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs right.�h (Ellie)

�gI see. That is disappointing.�h (Roel)

�gWere you looking forward to fighting her that much?�h (Kira)

�gOf course. The soul of a warrior still burns within me. Retired or not, I will seek out worthy opponents so long as
my body will allow.�h (Roel)
Wow, this guy is unexpectedly a romantic, huh? At least he doesn�ft seem to be a complete meat-head like a
certain gaggle of drunken shorties. I do sympathize with him on this.

�gI see. To be honest, I also was looking forward to watching Ellie fight. I never have a chance to simply relax and
watch her whenever we�fre on the job, after all.�h (Kira)

Ellie looks at me curiously. I can almost see the question marks floating above her head.

�gHer graceful and flowing movements, her stern, focused expression, the burning will in her eyes - I never have
the chance to properly enjoy any of these.�h (Kira)

Now her face shifts to one of embarrassment.

�gIt truly is regrettable. However, no matter how much I wish to see that, I will not ask my beloved to take any
action against her will. Even though I was looking forward to soaking in her gallant and, mmmm, beautiful form.
Not to mention the way her skin glistens with sweat whenever she puts in her... utmost effort.�h (Kira)

Her ears perk up a little more with every syllable. Now fot he finishing blow!

�gJust thinking about it gets me a little, haaah, excited ~?!�h (Kira)

�gNevermind! Forget what I said! I�fll participate! I�fll definitely give my all!�h (Ellie)

�gOh�c kay�c Whatever your reason, it is good to see you are motivated. I look forward to facing you in the
arena!�h (Roel)

�gRight back at you!�h (Ellie)

Roel seems satisfied with this outcome, although Ellie�fs fired up for a completely different reason, given how
she�fs blushing fiercely and almost panting. Looks like I managed to ignite her passionate side ~?! I�fm looking
forward to that evening already ~?!

�gCome to think of it, where�fs Zublos? Wasn�ft he with you?�h (Ellie)

�gHe carried off that �eservant�f of his somewhere after we visited the arena. Call it a hunch, but I don�ft think
they will be back any time soon.�h (Roel)

Oh, right. He�fs been clinging to Lara A. ever since that floozy gave them a push. Honestly, I�fm happy for them,
though I can�ft say I approve of those forceful methods. I promised myself I wouldn�ft interfere so I might as
well stick to doing that. I guess I�fm still a bit nosy though. Speaking of being nosy...

�gWhat about you and the pink Skittles?�h (Kira)

�gWhatever do you mean?�h (Roel)

�gNo�c lingering attachments?�h (Kira)

�gPlease, Mrs Quasse. It was a strictly professional matter. That pink one is way too unpredictable if left to her
own devices. And since nobody else was particularly willing, I took one for the team, as it were.�h (Roel)

I seem to recall it wasn�ft just once, but he has a point.

�gThat was very generous of you.�h (Kira)

�gThink nothing of it. Besides, it�fs not like I hated it. Despite her attitude she was surprisingly innocent. Forgive
me for saying this out loud, but she�fs completely unaccustomed to the touch of a man.�h (Roel)
Ah�c Come to think of it, she was based on Ellie�fs memory so there�fs no way she�fd know much about that
sort of thing, huh? Though something tells me she�fd be unbeatable if her partner was another woman.

�gWell, if that is all, then I shall go collect my compensation from the guild. I will see you both at the
Tournament.�h (Roel)

We exchange our goodbyes and he strides off in the direction of the guild building.

�gEllie.�h (Kira)

�gYes?�h (Ellie)

�gWhen you kick that guy�fs ass, make sure you break a few bones on my behalf.�h (Kira)

�gOkay!�h (Ellie)

I still have not forgiven him for that damsel in distress comment.
Chapter 126 - It's amazing how the mere presence of snow can have such
a big effect on people - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

�gHummm hmmm, hum-ha-ha-haummm. Hah-haaammm haah aaaah.�h (Ariel)

Haah�c Ariel�fs quiet singing is relaxing as usual. Just listening to it is making me drift off to sleep�c

�gHatcho!�h (Sophie)

�gAck!�h (Lara)

Sophie�fs cute sneeze suddenly snapped me out of it! Ah, that was close! Sleeping outside on a bench like this is
no-good during winter! Especially when there�fs snow falling! Admittedly it�fs not a lot of snow, but you can
never trust that white stuff!

�gSophie? Are you feeling well?�h (Ariel)

�gI�fm fine, Ariel. The snow just tickled my nose.�h (Sophie)

�gAre you sure?! You used to give me that excuse all the time before!�h (Lara)

�gI�fm serious!�h (Sophie)

�gHmm�c�h (Lara)

I stare at her with a dubious expression. She�fs not averting my gaze and her eyes seem lively. I guess it�fs not
just her bad habit from before. Well, we actually have warm clothes and a roof over our heads this time...

�eYou�fre actually sick aren�ft you!? Tell me these things sooner! Come on let�fs go find a priest! Hopefully
he doesn�ft charge us too much�c�f (Past Lara)

�eI�fm sorry big sis�c Hatcho! I�fm sorry for being a burden�c�f (Past Sophie)

�c

I remembered something unpleasant again.

�gOkay. Good. But! Promise to tell us right away if you feel sick, okay?!�h (Lara)

�gYeah�c�h (Sophie)

Ah, her expression darkened. I think she remembered it as well.

The winter year we spent on the street was especially harsh on us. Almost all the money we scraped together had to
be given to the priests to heal us because we got sick a lot. Sometimes they�fd take pity on us and let us spend the
night in a warm room or give us a hot meal, but none of them cared enough to actually help us beyond that.
Orphanages were always full, not to mention they�fd end up wanting to send us back anyway. To that house that
was colder than any winter night.

It�fs like we were a hinderance no matter where we went�c

No good! I lightly slap my cheeks with both hands to snap myself out of it! It�fs not like that anymore, Lara! You
have a real family this time! You�fre the big sister so you can�ft set such a lame example! Come on~! Focus~! Go
to your happy place~!

I imagine being together with Sophie and both our moms while sailing on a boat made of bacon across a sea of
gravy! Wait, that last part turned a bit weird! How does bacon float in the first place!? Can you have bacon strips
that big? No, wouldn�ft the sea of gravy be super weird in and of itself?! I wonder if such a place actually exists...

�gBig sis. You�fre making that face again.�h (Sophie)

�gHuh? What face?�h (Lara)

�gThe face you make when you�fre thinking about meat�c�h (Sophie)

�g*Slurp* Was it that obvious?�h (Lara)

She nods.

�gIt�fs not a bad thing though! You looked really happy!�h (Sophie)

�gAre you hungry, Lara?�h (Ariel)

�g... A little. Are Mom and Mom still busy with the King?�h (Lara)

�gMaster Nano? �c It seems they will be a while longer. Then shall we resume our walk and get some meat
skewers?�h (Ariel)

�gYeah!�h (Lara)

�gCan I get some sweets, Ariel?�h (Sophie)

�gOf course Sophie. Anything you want.�h (Ariel)

She smiles so sweetly at us that I think I feel my teeth ache! Ariel may be a bit weird, but she�fs really kind after
all!

We get up from the bench we were resting on and start walking down the busy street. The capital sure is something
else. Even with the snow falling there�fs quite a lot of people running around. Hopefully it doesn�ft pile up
though, it gets really hard to walk otherwise.

�gMiss Ariel, aren�ft you cold like that?�h (Sophie)

�gWhatever do you mean, Sophie?�h (Ariel)

�gWell�c your back is naked�c�h (Sophie)

There�fs not much Ariel can do about that though. I mean those wings of hers are in the way and her arms are
covered in soft feathers, so she can�ft wear jackets like we do. Just watching her exposed skin makes me feel cold,
though!

�gThis one is humbled by your concern, but this one is not a human. The avian people live in the mountain tops
and fly above the clouds, so we are used to the cold.�h (Ariel)

Oh right! Didn�ft she wear the same outfit before? Like, when we were in that really cold place up north? It was so
cold I think I had icicles forming from my nostrils seconds after poking my head outside! And she was still fine in
that sort of place! Compared to that, a little snow like this must be no different from a light breeze!
I�fve been thinking this for a while now, but isn�ft Ariel really amazing? She can fly, sing and do magic! All at
once! Also she treats us really well! It�fs just that�c I can�ft really see her as anything else than a friend of my
moms. She�fs got a different feel from the Aunty-like Kelly and the older-sister-like Big Lara.

So she�fs not any of those things, but she�fs still part of the household. Yet not part of the family�c Oh! Come to
think of it, she�fs like a maid, isn�ft she?! Therefore- No, calling her something like �emaid�f or �eservant�f
feels wrong�c Let�fs just stick with Ariel for now!

*Sniff sniff*

Huhu�c that�fs a good smell. I�fd know it anywhere! The smell of pork being grilled is wafting through the open
air!

�gAriel! Ariel! Can you buy me one of those?!�h (Lara)

I point excitedly at the street stall selling skewers! She nods and leads us to the bundled up old man at the stall. She
buys two skewers and sniffs both of them before handing one of them to me and one to Sophie. I wonder why she
does that every time we buy food. Maybe she just likes smelling things? Well, I can�ft blame her, just the aroma is
almost good enough to fill you up!

�gBut I wanted sweets...�h (Sophie)

�gSilly Sophie! We can have those after the meat! Big Lara said us girls have a second tummy for sweet stuff,
remember?!�h (Lara)

�gOh yeah!�h (Sophie)

She gleefully takes the skewer from Ariel�fs hand and takes a tiny bite out of it. I follow suit!

*Nom*

Sooo gooooood! As expected, freshly grilled pork is super yummy! And juicy! The tenderness and seasoning are
also superb! That skewer guy knows his stuff! Judging from Sophie�fs slackening expression she thinks so too!

We keep walking while I quickly finish off my food. Sophie has only eaten half of hers though. Doesn�ft she know
it will get cold like that?

***

�gI can�ft believe our moms work here!�h (Lara)

I gaze around the grand halls as we walk along. This is supposed to be the main office of the Ministry of Progress.
Mom had some more work to do after visiting the king so we�fre meeting her here.

�gIt�fs huge! It�fs bigger than that house we stayed in last year!�h (Sophie)

It really is! It�fs only got three floors but they�fre so wide and luxurious that it�fs almost like we�fre back in
the castle! There�fs a whole bunch of other buildings around, too! And then a really tall wall surrounding
everything! There�fs even some guards walking around and keeping suspicious people out!

�gThis whole estate used to belong to that worthless scum of a Court Wizard. The King has refurbished it to serve
the Mistress�fs needs.�h (Ariel)

I really wish Ariel wouldn�ft talk about others that way... Ah, but wasn�ft that the guy responsible for trying to
take Sophie and me away back then? I take it back! So the King took away his house as punishment, huh? Serves
him right for trying to hurt my little sister! I�fll never forgive that guy! Even though I�fve never seen him!
�gHuh? What�fs that shiny thing outside, Ariel?�h (Sophie)

Sophie looks out of the big window on the wall, pointing at something.

�gShiny thing? Where?! Ohh!�h (Lara)

I thought the other stuff outside was just warehouses and junk like that, but there�fs three whole shiny buildings
out there! They glisten like tiny suns against the snow-covered yard! Hmm?

�gIs that glass?�h (Lara)

�gThat�fs right, Lara. Master Nano calls them greenhouses.�h (Ariel)

�gHehe! That�fs a funny name!�h (Sophie)

�gYeah. They�fre not green and they�fre definitely not houses.�h (Lara)

I guess the shape is kind of house-like, but it would be weird living in them�c

�gThis one also does not understand. Although they are quite spectacular structures. The warmth of the sun seems
to linger inside and keep it warm without using a single drop of magic. Master Nano is using them to grow special
trees that normally can�ft survive the winter.�h (Ariel)

Hmm�c I don�ft really understand, but if Nano made them then it must be something amazing. I kind of want to
visit later!

�gAh, here we are. This is Mistress�fs study.�h (Ariel)

We arrive at a wooden door with a metal plate hanging on it. The word �eDirector�f is spelled out in fancy
lettering, with Mom�fs name directly under it - �eKiressara mil Quasse.�f

*Knock knock*

�gCome in.�h (Kira)

Ariel knocks on the door and Mom�fs reply comes right after. Ariel opens it wide and steps inside with a bow.

�gIt is your loyal servant, Mistress. I am here with Lara and Sophie.�h (Ariel)

�gHey Mom!�h (Lara)

�gMommy!�h (Sophie)

Mom looks up from some papers on top of the big desk she�fs sitting behind and her face turns into that signature
smile the instant she sees us.

�gHey you two! Did you have a nice walk?�h (Kira)

�gYeah! We ate some grilled meat and then some honey-pickled apples! It was great!�h (Lara)

�gBig sis, I don�ft think that was the question�c�h (Sophie)

�gYou weren�ft cold, right?�h (Ellie)

�gEeek!�h (Lara, Sophie, Ariel)

The three of us let out scream a scream in unison! Where did that voice come out from!?
�g... Sorry. I didn�ft mean to startle you.�h (Ellie)

Was Ellie sitting on that sofa the whole time!? She was in plain sight yet I didn�ft even notice her until she said
something!

�gAh that scared me!�h (Lara)

�gWow, Mommy! You�fre really good at hiding! How did you do that?!�h (Sophie)

�gI was just trying to keep quiet for Kira�fs sake. I think I went a bit overboard�c�h (Ellie)

�gAs expected of Mistress! This one could not detect your presence at all. This one is truly humbled to serve under
such a capable and gifted person!�h (Ariel)

And there she goes with the rubbing her forehead on the floor again. Weird Ariel came out, huh?

�gStop that this instant you damn bird! You�fll ruin the carpet with your hopeless stupidity! How many times do I
have to tell you!? Honestly, I�fve seen dogs that learn faster than you.�h (Kira)

�gHnng! Yes, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

�gGo pretend to be useful and make some tea! It�fs the only thing you�fre good for these days.�h (Kira)

�gHaah, haah, at once, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

Ariel gracefully steps out of the room and shuts the door behind her. Sophie leans over a bit and whispers to me.

�gMommy is being mean to Ariel again�c�h (Sophie)

�gYeah, but she looked really happy so maybe it�fs okay?�h (Lara)

That weird attitude of hers is really confusing. Our moms told us it was part of how she was raised and to do our
best to ignore it. I don�ft really get it, but since they said it I�fm sure there�fs a good reason! Therefore, I have to
do my part and make sure none of my little sisters become like that!

�gAnyway, come here and have a seat, girls. Your mother still has a few things to finish up.�h (Ellie)

Mom pats the sofa on either side of her. However, that�fs not-

�gCan I sit in your lap, Mommy?�h (Sophie)

�gOf course!�h (Ellie)

Ack! Sophie�fs already claimed it!

�gNo fair! I want to sit there too!�h (Lara)

�gHehe! Big sis was too slow!�h (Sophie)

�gGrr! You win this one! I�fll be the faster sister for sure next time!�h (Lara)

�gWe�fll see about that!�h (Sophie)

�gWhy you!�h (Lara)

�gKira. If you don�ft get back to work we�fll be here until nightfall.�h (Ellie)

Hmm? Ellie spoke towards Kira for some reason. I turn my head and see her just staring at us while giggling quietly.
Her face quickly becomes a pouting one though.

�gAwww�c but watching them squabble over their special seat is way more fun than contracts and budgets�c�h
(Kira)

Wait a second! There�fs more than one special seat, isn�ft there?! I walk up to the big desk and look imploringly
at her!

�gThen, can I sit on your lap while you work, Mom? I�fm kinda curious what you�fre working on�c�h (Lara)

�gSure sweetie! Just don�ft move around too much, okay?!�h (Kira)

�gYay!�h (Lara)

Alright! Since she�fs leaning forward with both arms on the desk, it�fll be like she�fs giving me a hug the whole
time! I bet she�fll even try to teach me stuff! To be honest I don�ft really care about some boring old papers, but
Mom gets super motivated when she�fs teaching us about things! Which means she�fll give me lots of attention!

I flash my little sister a triumphant smile as I make my way around the desk. She definitely looks a bit jealous!

Huhuhu! Sorry Sophie, but I managed to secure the better seat this time!
Chapter 127 - You can never be too prepared for a presentation - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gMistress, the King will arrive shortly for your appointment.�h (Ariel)

�gThanks, Ariel. I�fll be there in a moment.�h (Kira)

�gOf course, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

She bows and leaves my office as I slowly get off my chair and put on my coat. Moving around has been getting a
bit challenging lately. They don�ft call it �eheavy with child�f for no reason, huh?

�gKira. Will you be alright with the stairs?�h (Ellie)

Ellie worriedly walks up to me.

�gI�fll be fine Ellie. I�fm not some delicate flower that needs to be protected. Even if I�fm like this, I�fm still
a Rank A adventurer you know!�h (Kira)

How many times do I have to tell her? Her concern is touching, but it�fs getting to be a bit overbearing.

�gI can�ft help it! I feel like I�fm not sharing your burdens properly.�h (Ellie)

�gYou mounted an expedition into the northern tundra and stared down an angry titan for my sake. I think
you�fve done enough.�h (Kira)

�gThat was then. This is now. I just�c don�ft want to risk either of you getting hurt�c�h (Ellie)

Geh! There she goes with that pleading expression of hers again! That�fs cheating! She knows I can�ft easily
deny her when she does things like this!

�g... Fine. Have it your way.�h (Kira)

And now that borderline desolate face is instantly replaced by a satisfied smile. As expected, it was all an act. Well,
it�fs fine. If she wants to go that far just to spoil me a bit, I might as well let her.

***

�gGood day, Your Majesty.�h (Kira)

�gHey Fred.�h (Ellie)

We greet the king as he comes near. Ariel makes a silent bow while Rimmel outright kneels on the muddy ground.

It feels a bit strange to meet royalty in the open field next to the greenhouses like this, but judging from the
king�fs wide smile he�fs thoroughly enjoying himself. It�fs probably the first time in a long while that he�fs
been out of the castle. Is it really okay to be here without any guards, though? Well, the Ministry of Progress�fs
grounds are a secure and highly guarded area since what we�fre doing here could be classified as state secrets, so
it�fs probably fine.

�gGood day, Mrs Quasse. Ellie.�h (King Fred)

Next, I turn towards the man next to him. The seventeen-year old black haired and black-eyes crown prince, wearing
fittingly fancy clothes.

�gGood day, Your Highness.�h (Kira)

�g...�h (Prince Mathew)

He�fs having trouble maintaining his neutral mask. I can clearly see the corners of his mouth are twitching. Come
to think of it, this is the first time we�fve met face to face ever since Ellie�c educated him on the King�fs behalf.
Looking back to the culprit in question, his pleasant smile has not wavered one bit.

�gOy. Kira greeted you.�h (Ellie)

�gUck! *Ahem* Good day, Director Quasse.�h (Prince Mathew)

�gBetter.�h (Ellie)

Ellie nods satisfyingly while the king�fs smile turns mischievous for an instant.

This sort of thing was probably the king�fs whole reason for bringing him along. I�fd really wish he�fd stop
counting on us to look after his children and do it himself�c

Well, Shalia is a good girl so I don�ft mind having Sophie and Lara keep her company, but the crown prince is
another story. He idolized the late Court Wizard Rutland, didn�ft he? And we�fve now basically taken that
guy�fs place for our own in addition to being �eresponsible�f for his downfall. I�fm sure he hates us, especially
after we got physical with him. He�fs probably only here because his father - the King - ordered him to come as a
prank. I bet his position didn�ft even allow him to throw a tantrum.

I hate politics.

�gWell then, now that we�fre all here, shall we get on with this demonstration of yours? I�fm eager to find out
what you�fve come up with!�h (King Fred)

�gOf course. Mister Rimmel, if you please.�h (Kira)

I turn to the brown haired young man next to us. Having been suddenly called out, he jolts a bit, his thick glasses
almost falling off his nose.

�gY-Yes, Director!�h (Rimmel)

He turns around and stiffly walks off towards the special wagon we�fve brought here. He climbs inside and starts
making his preparations. Well, being tense in the presence of two members of the royal family is the normal reaction
for a commoner. Especially someone who�fs barely older than me.

Wait, doesn�ft that make me the weird one for being so casual with the king?

Oh well. It�fs my loss if I mind it.

�gRimmel huh?�h (King Fred)

�gYes, Your Majesty. He�fs one of the few people that came to us with an actual invention.�h (Kira)

�gReally? I thought your drive to look for innovation among the commoners was hugely popular. We mentioned
that in the first issue of the Wyvernews, didn�ft we?�h (King Fred)

�gPopular is one way to put it. While there were over 60 people that visited us this past week, almost all of them
were con artists.�h (Kira)
Brand new ministry, young naive girl at the head - easy target for making money, right? Sure, unless that girl, her
wife and her servant were all Rank A adventurers. We didn�ft even need to rely on Ellie�fs mind-reading to tell
the ideas and concepts they were trying to sell us were completely bogus.

�gAnd that young lad was different, huh?�h (King Fred)

�gThat is correct, Your Majesty. Although Rimmel�fs invention was nothing more than a fancy trinket, it showed
off a set of skills that we were looking for, so we hired him.�h (Kira)

�gOh! Someone our Minister of Progress has her eye on, hmm? Then I shall look forward to his results!�h (King
Fred)

�gAs do I, Your Majesty.�h (Kira)

Nano was oddly excited at the �ewristwatch�f Rimmel brought. I fail to see the point in that - people that need to
keep track of the time either work indoors or can tell by looking at the sun�fs position in the sky. But we hired him
anyway, because that invention of his ran without a drop of mana. The insides were a puzzle-like arrangement of
gears and springs that somehow worked, and Rimmel had made them all by hand.

That sort of precision and understanding of moving parts is exactly what we needed around here.

�gDirector Quasse! I�fm all ready over here!�h (Rimmel)

The young man in question shouted at us from inside the open-top carriage.

�gGood! Then start her up, Rimmel!�h (Kira)

�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Rimmel)

�gStart up?�h (King Fred)

*VRRUMMM*

A sudden loud noise comes out from the carriage as it starts vibrating slightly. The king and prince both jump a little
in shock.

*VRRRUM VRRUM VRRRRRRRRRRR*

�gQuit showing off, Rimmel!�h (Kira)

�gSorry, ma�fam!�h (Rimmel)

He eases up on the throttle and the wagon quiets down.

�gMrs Quasse�c What was that?�h (King Fred)

�gThat, Your Majesty, is the noise of a Mana Engine. In essence, a new type of magic tool. Rimmel! Let�fs show
the king what it can do!�h (Kira)

�gYes ma�fam!�h (Rimmel)

*VRUM VRRRrrrrrr*

The wagon starts moving under its own power around the open field with a constant roar as the Mana Engine does
its thing. Rimmel accelerates for a short while before braking to lower the speed and making a short turn. Then he
accelerates again and makes a wider turn at a higher speed. Our guests stare at it in wonderment as the carriage
wobbles atop the odd wheels and leaves deep tracks in the muddy ground.

�gThere you have it, Your Majesty. The world�fs first automobile. It uses the operator�fs mana to propel itself
along the ground. It�fs capable of reaching speeds that rival that of a gryphon in flight. Those weird-looking axles
and wheels, as well as the overall shape, are there to make sure the carriage itself shakes as little as possible.�h
(Kira)

Nano came up with that name. Automobile. It�fs a bit awkward to say, but it fits. Ellie wanted to call it a
�ebuggy�f based on the shape. I still have no idea what she meant. Come to think of it, she said something similar
about the weird carriage we used about a year ago while tracking down Nano�fs lost boxes. Probably confusing it
with something from her old world.

�gThe mana consumption varies depending on the speed and weight it�fs hauling, but it�fs good enough that a
non-mage like Rimmel can make the trip from here to Runetap in four days.�h (Kira)

*rrrrrRRRRRRRRRRRrrr*

�gWait, he�fs not a mage?! You�fre telling me a regular person is capable of moving a whole wagon like that!?
�h (Prince Mathew)

�gThat is correct Your Highness.�h (Kira)

�gBut�c I thought non-mages couldn�ft use magic!�h (Prince Mathew)

�gYour Highness is mistaken. Every person has some measure of mana within them and can, in theory, use magic.
It�fs just that their mana is insufficient to use it regularly.�h (Kira)

Whereas I can probably throw out hundreds of [Firebolts] or [Thunder] spells, a regular person would be
completely dry after one or two, maybe three of those spells.

*VRrrrrummmRURRRR*

�gThen�c How?�h (Prince Mathew)

�gOur Mana Engine is an efficient tool, Your Highness. In all honestly, calling it a magic tool doesn�ft do it
justice. It�fs closer to a collection of smaller magic tools that work in unison. Allow me to show you.�h (Kira)

I turn my head to Rimmel and raise a hand at him.

*rrRRRRRURRRUrrrr rururururu*

After seeing my signal, he turns the automobile around and comes closer to us. He stops it right next to me and Ellie,
gets out, walks around and opens up a panel on the side to reveal the Magic Engine to the king and prince.

�gAnd here, it is.�h (Kira)

It�fs a metal block with all kinds of widgets and hinges and pistons and other bits moving around rhythmically.

�gFascinating! Look at it go!�h (King Fred)

�gThis looks really complicated. Are you sure it�fs not another one of your so-called Star Magic doodads?�h
(Prince Mathew)

�gQuite sure, Your Highness. This very engine was assembled by Mister Rimmel here. In fact, given the rate the
parts grow in and with sufficient manpower, we�fll be able to produce about 300 of these a month.�h (Kira)
�gWait, what do you mean the parts grow?�h (Prince Mathew)

�gAh, that�fs what�fs in those glass structures next to us. We are currently raising a large number of Money
Trees that are-�h (Kira)

�gThe cultivation of Money Trees is illegal!�h (Prince Mathew)

*Fwit THUD*

A black knife lands blade-first into the ground between the prince�fs feet. It sank so deep into the mud that only the
top part of the handle is sticking out of the ground. The one that threw the knife glared at the stupefied prince.

�gCut her off again. I dare you.�h (Ellie)

�gI-I-I�fm sorry! Please don�ft hurt me!�h (Prince Mathew)

He takes a few steps backwards with a pale face. Yep, he�fs definitely traumatized. The King, on the other hand, is
trying really hard to suppress his laughter. Hey, that�fs your son, isn�ft it? Shouldn�ft you be protecting him?!

�gAs I was saying, we seeded those Money Trees not with coins, but with parts for the Mana Engine. That way we
can produce large quantities of completely identical components without any skilled labor, although there�fs a
certain loss of materials doing this. Honestly, at this point we should be calling them something other than Money
Trees.�h (Kira)

Come to think of it, I need to double-check how our Orichalcum supply is doing. Copper and iron are common
enough, and we only need a little bit of Mithril, but the Orichalcum is a problem. At least the all-important
Titansteel from Ecebis is flowing in nicely.

A magic tool that demands a magic-cancelling metal to work. Nano sure came up with something outrageous.

�gKuhuhu- *Ahem* So. Mrs Quasse. Pfu-.�h (King Fred)

�gFred. It�fs too late for you to pretend you�fre not enjoying this.�h (Ellie)

�gHeh, can�ft get anything past you Rank As! Truth is, Matt here was convinced you were trying to swindle me,
so he insisted he come with me. I wasn�ft planning on bringing him along at all, but this whelp thought himself
wiser than his old man! I�fve been ruling twice as long as you�fve been alive, moron!�h (King Fred)

*SLAP*

�gOWW!�h (Prince Mathew)

The king slapped the prince on the back of the head with a bit of strength.

�gNow apologize to my Minister and Director of Progress for doubting her!�h (King Fred)

There it is. That domineering presence he shows whenever he�fs serious. I wish he�fd use it more often, it
actually suits a man of his station. The prince stops holding onto his head, straightens himself out and turns towards
us. After taking a few seconds to rebuild his neutral mask, he begins his apology.

�gI apologize sincerely for thinking you a common swindler Mrs Quasse.�h (Prince Mathew)

He puts one hand behind his back, the oher on his stomach and makes an elegant bow. I glance at Ellie and she nods
in response. At least he�fs sincere.

�gApology accepted, Your Highness.�h (Kira)

I bow my head in response.

�gTh-th-the prince a-a-apologized�c�h (Rimmel)

�gRimmel. Stop gawking about and bring the automobile inside before it starts snowing again.�h (Kira)

�gAck! Yes! At once, Director Quasse!�h (Rimmel)

Oh great! He�fs back to addressing me by my title! I worked so hard to get him to start calling me something
shorter! I wish he wouldn�ft be so stiff...

I think I finally understand why the king is the way he is...

�gPardon me, Director Quasse, but I do have one question.�h (Prince Mathew)

�gYes, Your Highness?�h (Kira)

�gHow come you�fre floating?�h (Prince Mathew)

�gAh, Ellie is carrying me with her Star Magic. She gets worried for our baby if I walk around too much.�h (Kira)

To others it probably looks like I�fm sitting in an invisible flying armchair. Well, it�fs not entirely uncomfortable
I suppose, though I�fm only allowing this because Ellie worries entirely too much about me and the baby. It has
nothing to do with the fact it makes me feel like Ellie is holding me lovingly in her invisible arms.

This and that are completely unrelated.

�gI�fm sorry, �eour�f baby?�h (Prince Mathew)

�gOh right! I forgot to mention that!�h (King Fred)

Haaaah.

�gAriel, go inside and fetch some warm water.�h (Kira)

�gAt once, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

�gWell, Matt, it�fs like this-�h (King Fred)

***

*PLOP*

And there he goes. He somehow made it past the crazy spider titan, but the all-female pregnancy finished him
off. Well, it wasn�ft entirely unexpected. Almost everyone we�fve told has had a reaction like that. Only Dad
seemed genuinely happy for us without raising any sort of fuss.

Then again, nobody that�fs lived in Runetap for as long as he has would be fazed with just this much absurdity...

�gAhhhhh�c Now his clothes are all muddy. Raela is going to kill me�c�h (King Fred)

�gIt�fs okay, Your Majesty. Ariel should be here soon with some warm water to help rinse him off.�h (Kira)

�gOh! As expected of the top-ranked adventurer team! You really are prepared for anything!�h (King Fred)

�gYes, ye- Wait, �etop-ranked�f? ... Why do I get the feeling you don�ft mean Rank A?�h (Kira)

�gAh, right. You weren�ft around back then�c Basically, the Adventurer�fs Guild decided to give every Rank
A adventuring team their own standing on something they�fre calling The Ladder. They recognized you guys as
the best adventurer team in the country!�h (King Fred)

�gI�fm sorry, what?�h (Kira)

We�fre the best? Really?! But we�fre not even a year old!

�gI know, quite exciting, isn�ft it? Well, it won�ft be made official until the next issue of the Wyvernews
that�fs going out in a few days!�h (King Fred)

�gWhat!?�h (Kira)

�gWe�fre even including an image of your likeness! All that thanks to your printing press! Now the entire country
will know exactly who you are and what you look like! It was my idea - no need to thank me!�h (King Fred)

�gYou what?! You absolute moron! You think I want that kind of attention!�h (Kira)

Now I won�ft be able to live peacefully! People will crowd around me whenever we go for a walk! Ellie�fs fan
club is going to get even more obnoxious!

�gThere is not a single good thing about this! Hold me tight, Ellie!�h (Kira)

�gI-I thought you�fd be hap- Woah!�h (King Fred)

�gDon�ft dodge it!�h (Kira)

I take off my other boot and prepare to throw it at his head, just like the first one!

�gEllie, please calm her down!�h (King Fred)

�gYou earned this one, Fred.�h (Ellie)

�gI�fll calm down when you�fre chewing on my heel!�h (Kira)

I toss it with all my strength! The damn king ducks under it again!

�gMistress, this one has retURPBFH!�h (Ariel)

Ah�c Ariel was behind him. My leather boot landed squarely in her face. Her head flew back as the tray she was
carrying was flipped forward. The jug of hot water that was on it flew wonderfully through the air while emptying
its contents onto the still unconscious prince.

�gMy best color is three!�h (Prince Mathew)

He suddenly wakes up with a weird yell. Ariel on the other hand has fallen on the ground from the sudden blow to
the face.

�gHaah, haah, Mistress�fs heel, haaah! Nnnnng! Such a reward, haah, this one is not, haah, worthy! Hauuuh!�h
(Ariel)

She�fs actually wallowing in the mud, rubbing her bruised face all over my footwear with a disgusting smile.

�g...�h (Kira, King Fred, Ellie)

There�fs a bizarre moment of silence where the only things heard are the soaked crown prince�fs
panicked breathing and Ariel�fs indecent panting. I�fm floating in the air barefoot, while the king is down in all
fours after his panicked dodging.
�c

It�fs probably a good thing I didn�ft bring my staff with me today.

Also, I need to remember to burn my left boot later.

Chapter 128 - You don't need a special occasion to spend time with
family and friends. But it helps. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gGood morning Kira!�h (Ellie)

I wake up to Ellie practically beaming at me. She�fs overly excited, isn�ft she? Well, it�fs to be expected. It�fs
a big day for her.

�gHmmnn... Happy Birthday Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

�gThanks Kira!�h (Ellie)

She narrows her eyes and somehow manages to smile even wider. Today marks exactly one year since Ellie came
here. One year since she was �ereborn.�f Well, it�fs true for both of us I suppose. I reach over and stroke her
cheek with my palm. She puts her hand over mine as our faces slowly draw closer together, inevitably ending in a
deep kiss.

*MMMmmmmmnnnnnnn*

Oh my! Starting with the tongue so early! Ellie really is frisky today isn�ft she? I wouldn�ft be much of a wife if I
didn�ft return the gesture ~?!

Our tongues greet each other and share a dance for what feels like hours. Judging from the way Ellie�fs tongue
wriggles against mine, she�fs not exactly �ein the mood�f but just really really happy. Well, today I promised to
spoil her as much as possible, so I�fll gladly do just that!

*Smack*

We finally separate with an exceedingly loud, wet noise. A string of our combined saliva is hanging between our
slightly open mouths.

�gGross�c�h (Lara)

�gUck! Lara! Sophie!�h (Kira)

I panic and pull the covers up over my chest! Oh wait, I�fm actually wearing my nightgown for once, right?!

Let�fs quickly check under the covers.

I am! Oh thank goodness! I got so used to sleeping in the nude with Ellie that I thought I was completely indecent
for a second there! Well�c that kiss was anything but chaste, but it�fs still just a kiss! It�fs innocent enough,
right?!

I turn my gaze back to Lara and Sophie who are standing in the doorway. Looks like they�fre still in their pajamas.

�gWhat are you two doing here this early?�h (Kira)

�gMommy wanted us to spend the whole day together, so here we are!�h (Sophie)

�gYou could�fve waited until breakfast at least.�h (Ellie)

�gHuh?! But we don�ft wanna waste any of our special day, right?�h (Lara)
That�fs right, it�fs not just me. This day is going to be all about our family. Just us four. Oop! Make that five!

�gLooks like our youngest is getting excited too!�h (Kira)

�gOh! Is it kicking!? Let me feel!�h (Ellie)

�gWhat? Can we do that too?!�h (Lara)

�gOf course! I�fm sure the little one will be happy to be surrounded by a loving family!�h (Kira)

Lara and Sophie run up and onto the bed. Before I know it, there�fs a multitude of hands all swarming over my
gravid belly. Come to think of it, today makes exactly two months since this whole thing started?

�gIt moved, it moved!�h (Ellie)

�gWow! It really is in there!�h (Sophie)

�gSo this is our new baby sister?! I�fm so excited!�h (Lara)

�gHm? We won�ft know if it will be a boy or girl though?�h (Ellie)

�gWhat are you saying, Mom?! Both of you are girls so how can it possibly be a boy?!�h (Lara)

�gAh!�h (Kira and Ellie)

We didn�ft even think of that before! It�fs so simple. It actually makes sense. Well, that�fs pretty much the only
thing that makes sense about this whole thing, but it�fs something!

�gCould it be Lara is growing up into a genius!?�h (Ellie)

�gYeah! Big sis has gotten really smart lately!�h (Sophie)

�gMy, my! That just might be the case!�h (Kira)

�gHehehehe! You shouldn�ft underestimate an adventurer�fs daughter!�h (Lara)

Aww, how precious! She�fs actually given this whole thing some thought, huh? And she�fs genuinely looking
forward to meeting her new sister! I feel silly for thinking she might worry we�fd throw them away or something.
To have overcome her pessimistic mindset, I�fm so proud of her!

�gOooh! It moved again!�h (Sophie)

�gLooks like our daughter is going strong!�h (Ellie)

�gYeah! I bet she�fs going to be an amazing person just like Mom!�h (Lara)

�gWhich one though?�h (Sophie)

�gUhm�c Both of them!�h (Lara)

�gC-Can someone that amazing actually exist?!�h (Sophie)

We spend a few minutes enjoying this quiet little moment together. It feels like I stole the attention away from Ellie,
though. Well, judging from that expression she doesn�ft seem to mind one bit. We should probably get dressed
soon, wouldn�ft want to laze around all day in here.

Well, I kind of want to, but we already did that on my own birthday.
***

�gReady to leave, girls?�h (Kira)

�gYeah!�h (Lara and Sophie)

Coats, boots, gloves, hats, scarves - yep, they�fre ready!

�gEllie, you okay?�h (Kira)

�gUgh�c I will be�c�h (Ellie)

She stumbles forward slowly, hunched over and clutching her stomach.

�gTo think Kira�fs special pork roast would be that good�c Truly a formidable opponent�c�h (Ellie)

�gNano?�h (Kira)

{I�fm working on it. She should be alright in a few minutes.}

Nano is convenient like usual. Taking care of Ellie�fs body is an important job, it�fs good that there�fs someone
reliable to handle it whenever she goes overboard.Still, I wonder what Nano means by �eworking on it.�f

�g*Brrarp* Ugh�c Sorry�c�h (Ellie)

�c I�fm sorry I asked.

I really should have stopped her after the third helping. But she kept insisting, saying things like �eToday�fs roast
is 40% more delicious!�f and �eIt�fs my duty to eat all of it!�f so I let her indulge herself as much as she
wanted. Maybe I shouldn�ft have cut the carrots into a heart shape and written �eFor Ellie ?�f on the side of it
with the sauce�c

�gKraa.�h (Fluffles)

�gKakaa. Kuhaa!�h (Puff)

They both have a point! This is Ellie�fs special day! We shouldn�ft be wasting our time!

�gYou heard them, everyone on board!�h (Kira)

Lara and Sophie deftly clamber onto Fluffles�fs back and start strapping themselves to the saddle. He keeps a close
eye on them to make sure they�fre doing it right. Still, Fluffles and Puff just keep growing, huh? Any more and
they might start towering over Zublos when they stand up straight! Still, they�fre both more or less at about
Shull�fs size so they should stop growing soon.

�gReady!�h (Lara)

�gYeah!�h (Sophie)

�gKwaa.�h (Fluffles)

Good, they�fre all prepared. Looks like we can go now!

Hmm? Me? Ellie already lifted me onto Puff and carefully strapped me in with her abilities. She�fs still suffering a
bit, but seems to have secured herself as well. I mean, she�fd probably be fine even if she fell, but we�fre not
setting a good example for our kids otherwise.

�gEllie, are you feeling better?�h (Kira)

�gYeah, much better. Thanks again, Nano.�h (Ellie)

{Any time.}

�gAlright, let�fs go! Onward and upward!�h (Ellie)

Following her command, Puff and Fluffles spread their wings and lift off with a few good flaps! The royal capital
spreads out beneath us before I know it. I wanted to celebrate in Runetap along with everyone else, but unfortunately
Ellie has to participate in the tournament tomorrow. We won�ft be able to make it back here if we-

�gEEEHEEELIE! EEEHEEELIE!�h (Crowd)

�gWha-?!�h (Kira)

There�fs a thunderous noise coming from below?! Gah! There must be thousands of people down there! They�fre
filling up the streets and plazas in almost every direction and chanting Ellie�fs name!

�gWoooah! So many!�h (Ellie)

�gHow did-? Claaaraaaa!�h (Kira)

That girl! She probably leaked Ellie�fs birthday to her fan club! I mean, of course she knows, but that�fs
supposed to be personal information! Did she gather all those people here?!

�gEEEHEEELIE! EEEHEEELIE!�h (Crowd)

Most of them are wearing clothes with the same rich blue color as Ellie�fs hair! There�fs even a bunch of them
wearing pure white that spell out �eHAPPY BIRTHDAY�f in one of the plazas outside the Adventurer�fs Guild!

�gEEEHEEELIE! EEEHEEELIE!�h (Crowd)

I expected that �etop-ranked adventurer team�f to have some effect, but this is ridiculous! Wait, it�fs already
early afternoon, did they all camp out here since morning just for this moment?! This is way beyond the scale of a
fan club, it�fs basically a cult, isn�ft it?!

�gPuff! Let�fs give them a little service! Show them your stuff!�h (Ellie)

�gKraaaa! Huuuuuu-KUHAAAAAAAAAAAH!�h (Puff)

Puff lets out a gigantic blue fireball into the air above us! It must be at least 6 meters in diameter and floats in place
without dispersing into smoke!

�gKUH! KUH!�h (Puff)

He lets out two smaller flames that seem to attach themselves on the big blue one! Wait�c isn�ft that shape
basically a slightly deformed head with cat ears?! I mean, I know his control over his fire has gotten quite good, but
is that really the kind of thing you should be using it for?!

The crowd below us is stunned into silence. I mean, why wouldn�ft they be? There�fs a gigantic cat-eared fireball
in the sky! Ah, it seems to be slowly turning into smoke now...

�gTHANK YOU ALL!�h (Ellie)

Ellie�fs crisp voice penetrates the surrounding silence, seemingly echoing into the distance. Ah, that no-good king
probably saw and heard everything. He�fs either going to be mad at us for disturbing the order, or he�fll want to
do this whole thing again.
I�fm not sure which is worse!

�gHURAAAAAAH!�h (Crowd)

They let out a huge cheer and applaud loudly as Ellie waves down at them. Well, as long as she�fs having fun, then
it�fs all good, right? Looking to the side, I see Fluffles and the kids seem to be enjoying the situation too. Alright,
let�fs read the mood and go with the flow!

�gMy, you�fre so well loved! Aren�ft you glad, Ellie?!�h (Kira)

�gHmm? Of course I�fm well loved. It�fs natural.�h (Ellie)

�gAh�c Is that so�c�h (Kira)

The fame won�ft go to her head, right?

�gAfter all, I have Kira, Lara and Sophie with me. What more could I ever need?!�h (Ellie)

�gR-really? But what about those people?�h (Kira)

�gHm? Ah, it was nice of them, but their feelings are shallow. Especially when compared to all the love you,
Sophie and Lara have given me. I can never repay that amount, but it won�ft stop me from trying!�h (Ellie)

Kyaaaa! How can she brazenly say such cool things! I can feel my face grow hot from embarrassment! If Sophie
and Lara were to hear this, they�fd probably have no idea what to do! I mean, I�fm pretty lost myself!

�gKraak!�h (Puff)

�gOh! Sorry Puff, that was bad of me. Of course I care about you too! And Fluffles as well! And Esteemed Father,
obviously! Kelly and Ariel can�ft be left behind either! Then there�fs-�h (Ellie)

�gEllie. I think you�fve made your point.�h (Kira)

�gKrah.�h (Puff)

If we started listing off anyone and everyone who�fs ever helped us out we�fll be here all day.

�gAnyway, we won�ft be able to enjoy ourselves like this. Puff, head east towards the shore!�h (Kira)

My old secluded spot will hopefully still be, well, secluded.

***

�g---------- [High Freeze]�h (Kira)

The ebb and flow of the ocean stops dead as I turn a huge chunk of it into ice. This is a trick I learned during my
Magic Academy days - if you freeze it next to the cliffs like this, the ice won�ft shake when you step on it and you
won�ft disturb the fishermen.

�gWoah!�h (Ellie)

Right, let�fs proceed with the next step. I crouch down a bit, making sure of my footing and hold my staff
horizontally against the icy surface.

�g----- [High Beam]�h (Kira)

The thick beam of light shoots out, cutting a path through the ice. I slowly move it sideways, shaving off the frozen
waves.
�gThere, finished!�h (Kira)

The ocean is now a stable, perfectly flat slab of ice. Well, except around the edges. If you lose control, the rough and
uneven ground will stop you from sliding off into the cold water.

�gThat was so cool, Mom! I forgot how amazing your magic was!�h (Lara)

�gCan we really go and play on this?!�h (Sophie)

�gYep! I used to do this all the time!�h (Kira)

Well, I had to smuggle a few staves out of the Academy and be extra careful not to overdo it, but it was a great way
to kill some time while practicing my ice magic.

�gI had Nano prepare ice skates for us especially for today!�h (Kira)

I point towards Puff who�fs idly lying down nearby. Ever since he got bigger it makes it easier to bring more
luggage with us whenever we go out. Plus, something tells me he really enjoys the exercise.

�gIs this okay? You won�ft be able to join us like that, right? I feel bad leaving you behind.�h (Ellie)

�gWhy not just carry me like you always do? You know I actually don�ft mind that one bit ~?!�h (Kira)

*CRRRACK*

�gHuh? Wait, what was that?�h (Kira)

�gKraaa!�h (Puff)

�gKira! Stand behind me!�h (Ellie)

Puff and Ellie leap in front of me! Ellie draws her sword from its place on Puff�fs back and gets ready for action.

*RRRUMBLE*

The ice start shaking furiously as cracks spread through it! I ready my staff and I see Fluffles is already ushering
Lara and Sophie to take cover in the nearby grotto.

This doesn�ft make any sense though, there�fs no monsters in this area! It should be completely safe!

*KAKROOM*

There�fs an explosion of ice and water as a white mist spreads out near the edge of my improvised plateau! I see
something moving around in there and focus my attention. I may be pregnant, but I can still support Ellie and Puff
should the need arise!

�gAAAAH THAT�fS WAY TO FREAKING COOOOLD!�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

The one that burst out of the ice was a three meter tall, half naked mountain of a man. Well, a mountain giant to be
precise. One I know too well.

�gThat was close! I was just having my afternoon swim when all of a sudden the water froze! Thank goodness
something thinned out the ice! Haaah, that scared the crap out of me!�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gK-Kira�c�h (Ellie)

�gYeah, let�fs leave quietly before he notices us!�h (Kira)

�gPuff, we�fre retreating. Quick and quiet, just like I taught you.�h (Ellie)

�gKruuu.�h (Puff)

We start going back up the sandy beach towards the grotto where the others are hiding. We manage to slip behind
some rocks before the Grandmaster notices us. Normally I should take responsibility for such a blunder, but I really
don�ft want to spend the afternoon getting scolded! Not on Ellie�fs special day!

�gOh well. Time to resume my afternoon swim. My dinner won�ft catch itself!�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

Without missing a beat, he makes his way off the ice and dives back into the cold water with a huge splash.

I see, he�fs not the Grandmaster of the Adventurer�fs Guild for nothing, huh?
Chapter 129 - People who say the ends justify the means are either
unable or unwilling to find better means - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gWelcome once again, ladies and gentlemen!�h (Announcer)

The crowd goes wild as expected. Sometimes I wonder if they like this announcer more than the actual events.

�gAfter an unfortunate two month delay, the Grand Martial Arts Tournament will commence once more! I�fm
sure we�fre all eager to see what plans and strategies our fighters have come up with during their downtime!�h
(Announcer)

Well, I can�ft deny the man has a certain charisma around him. He certainly knows how to get the crowd excited,
for one. He really should just move onto the actual duel though.

�gAnd without further delay, we will begin immediately! Facing off once more - Roel Denka the [Sword Master]
vs Ellie mil Quasse the [Dragonbane]!�h (Announcer)

�gCome on! Come on! Look there she is!�h (Lara)

�gMommy looks weird in those clothes�c�h (Sophie)

I agree with Sophie, that armor they forced Ellie to wear really doesn�ft suit her. I understand it�fs part of the
rules, but it doesn�ft mean I have to like it. The least they could�fve done is let her paint or dye it beforehand!
Well, I suppose function is more important than fashion in a fight.

�gEEHEELIE! EEHEELIE!�h (Crowd)

�gWow, there they go again, huh?�h (Kelly)

�gYeah. I�fve had to accept that noise as the new norm, unfortunately. You know that chant broke out pretty
much every time someone saw us in public yesterday?�h (Kira)

�gOh yeah. I could hear it all the way down in the workshop! Ah, or is that all the way 'up' in the worshop? Well,
you get the idea.�h (Kelly)

�gThese worms have done well to finally express Mistress Ellie�fs greatness in an acceptable fashion. Though
they really should be groveling at her feet and licking her boots. Wait, wouldn�ft that actually be a reward for their
service?�h (Ariel)

Kelly throws her a rather disgusted look, which I wholeheartedly mirror. Far from getting better, Ariel�fs head
seems to be growing even more rotten! I think she might have developed some sort of foot fetish in addition to
the other problem she has. Which is, to be honest, probably my fault... I�fm also pretty sure she�fs still holding
onto the charred remains of my old left boot, but my intuition tells me nothing good will come of asking her about
that.

�gIt seems that the two contestants have finished exchanging greetings and are about to start!�h (Announcer)

> Narrator PoV <

Kiressara immediately forgot any stupid thoughts she was having about a certain perverted canary, and instead
refocused her attention on the two cat-eared contestants facing off each other in the ring.

�gContestants!�h (Announcer)
Ellie assumed a stance on all fours while Roel prepared the two swords in his hands and the rapier on his tail to
intercept her. So far, it seems to be a repeat of what had happened almost two months ago, except for one major
detail - Ellie was equipped with two swords instead of one. The cause of that was simple.

�eWhen you kick that guy�fs ass, make sure you break a few bones on my behalf.�f

While Ellie was never one to hold back or go easy on her opponent in the first place, those words inspired her to put
in all of her effort into winning this fight. If that person said they wanted something, then Ellie would grant it
without question!

Reasons? Doubt? What are those? Do they taste good?

�gBegin!�h (Announcer)

To most spectators watching, Ellie disappeared instantly. All that was left behind was a cloud of dust and four small
holes in the sandy ground.

*CLANG*

A loud noise reverberated through the arena as Roel blocked Ellie�fs leaping downward sword strike. The sheer
heaviness and speed of the blow surprised him, so he had to meet it head on with both longswords. Noticing his
opponent was briefly suspended in the air, Roel thrust his tail-guided rapier towards Ellie�fs chest. However, it was
easily deflected by her steel bracer.

Even if it was fast and accurate, a tail simply could not exert enough force to penetrate armor.

Roel roared and threw Ellie back, creating some distance between the two. Roel had surmised Ellie had the definite
advantage when it came to close range combat, so he would not allow himself to be dragged into that sort of fight.
He was also wary of Ellie�fs second sword which was still sheathed on her back.

This woman was not one to carry a weapon if she had no plans to use it.

Ellie rushed forward again and swung her sword sideways. Roel was fully prepared for her this time and deftly
turned it away with one hand while counterattacking with the other. The fierce stab was dodged by a paper-thin
margin before Ellie swung her sword around while blocking another scorpion-like thrust with her bracer. That too
was parried and met with another brilliant riposte, which again missed its mark.

Unable to land any sort of attack, both of them traded blows at a speed that could barely be registered by the
audience. Sparks flew and clanging echoed as metal met metal countless times. After about a minute of this, Roel
saw an opening and took it, landing a fierce kick on Ellie�fs abdomen. It forced her back a few meters, causing her
feet to slide across the ground.

The short break in the action snapped the mesmerised announcer out of his stupor. Even though he was a
professional that had casted multiple tournaments in the past, he was still left awestruck, staring dumbly with an
open jaw.

�gAh! My apologies ladies and gentlemen! The fierce exchange that just took place was simply beyond words!�h
(Announcer)

Finally remembering he had a job to do, he started the belated play-by-play.

�gAfter numerous exchanges that were all either blocked or dodged, Roel was the one to score the first clean hit of
the match with a kick!�h (Announcer)

The crowd finally started getting noisy. Much like the announcer, they were also struck dumb by the masterful
display in front of them. Any lingering anger and unpleasant thoughts caused by the tournament being delayed
unexpectedly were instantly forgotten. Because, in front of their very eyes there was a spectacle easily worth waiting
another year for, let alone a measely two months!

While Roel briefly registered the sudden increase in noise, Ellie ignored it completely. If anything, she was an
expert at tuning out the background. Right now, her head was churning away at high speed. She was trained as an
assassin. The one before her was a swordsman of the highest caliber. The kick she took, while not particularly
dangerous, signified that Roel was gradually getting used to her rather simplistic swordplay. Although she was
superior in strength and speed, Roel�fs technique and experience was easily catching up to her. Things would get
worse for her the more this dragged out.

This much was within Ellie�fs expectations, however. Although the advantages she had in terms of physical
aptitude were being gradually overcome, so too could Roel�fs strong points be made meaningless. All it took was
the right approach.

She dashed forward once more, swinging her sword sideways at Roel�fs neck. The blow was once again deftly
turned away, only instead of blocking the counterattack, Ellie avoided it completely by leaping back the instant the
swords made contact with each other. She flew gracefully backwards with a quick backflip landing on three
pointswith one hand on the ground and another holding her sword above. She sprang into action from this lowered
position, not forward, but sideways - circling around her opponent. She ran with a bizarre gait, using her free hand
as a third leg. She was obviously aiming to disturb and confuse her opponent.

Roel naturally followed her with his entire body, but just as he repositioned his foot, Ellie changed directions on a
dime. She pulled off an impossible 180 turn by thrusting her gloved hand into the ground like a shovel and swinging
around it, redirecting her momentum. This unorthodox maneuver allwed her to catch Roel slightly off guard and get
on his flank. She lunged at her opponent from the side without giving him a chance to regain his proper footing.
Roel spun his body in a rather exaggerated motion, getting out of the way of her charge and blocking the sword
strike that came at his chest as she moved past. Ellie simply grabbed onto the ground and flung herself around to
repeat the fierce attack.

Back in the VIP box, Ellie�fs friends and family were thoroughly enjoying the show. From up here the two
combatants looked like two blurs orbiting around each other, but failing to collide. Ellie would pull off some strange
maneuver that would snap a normal person in half, while Roel deftly avoided it with his whole body. Much like the
rest of the crowd, Kira was watching it with baited breath.

However, in her excitement, she completely failed to notice someone approach her seat. It wasn�ft until the
humungous figure cast a shadow over her that she realized someone was there.

�gQuite fast isn�ft she?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gAck! G-G-grandmaster? Good to see you in good health!�h (Kira)

He snuck up on her. Someone whose very existence seemed to be the polar opposite of stealth had managed to catch
her completely by surprise.

�gOf course. It would take a lot more than being encased in a little ice to pose a problem for one of us mountain
giants.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

The Grandmaster looked down sternly at Kira, who almost broke out in a cold sweat in return. She was vividly
reminded of yesterday�fs incident where she inadvertently encased him in a glacier.

�gYou mean�c you actually saw us!?�h (Kira)

�gNope. I did not.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

Kira�fs face became pale. She realized the Grandmaster�fs position wasn�ft just for show. Even without seeing
her with his own eyes, he had accurately deduced the culprit and confronted her. And said culprit
invulntarily admitted to the deed under the unexpected pressure.

The man in front of her was quite formidable in many ways.

�gI�fm sorry! I truly am! I just- I had no idea!�h (Kira)

�gDon�ft be like that. I don�ft hold it against you. Assuming anyone was taking a casual swim in those icy
waters would be a leap of logic that would normally make one question their own sanity. I completely understood it
was an accident. Besides, it was a good reminder to stay on my toes.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

Kilroy seated himself on the floor with crossed legs. It�fs not like these seats would handle his enormous size
anyway.

�gMind if I keep our number one adventurer company?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gNo�c Go ahead�c�h (Kira)

Truthfully, Kira had several things she wanted to say about that whole Ladder debacle, but what was done is done.
There�fs no way she would be able to derail such a large-scale initiative just for the sake of her selfish desires.
Especially since both the Crown and the Adventurer�fs Guild were in full support of it. She instead turned her
attention back to the fight.

Ellie and Roel were both on the move. The duel had transitioned from a static one into an active one, leading them
both into an odd dance of sorts. None of them would tire out easily, however. Ellie�fs enhanced body boasted deep
reserves of stamina, while Roel�fs actions were efficient and without a single wasted movement. It would be
difficult to say who would last longer in an endurance match, but Ellie had every intention to end this before it went
that far. Her preparations were almost complete.

It had not snowed at all in the last week, so the ground was as dry as it normally was. Which meant every step raised
some dust. The cloud of fine powder-like sand hung heavily in the air due to the complete lack of wind. Ellie kept
Roel�fs attention focused on her and her blade while moving around at high speed, drawing his eyesight toward the
ground and away from his surroundings. Taking note of a rather thick veil of kicked up dust, she backed off and put
it between herself and her opponent.

The earthen cloud seemed to glow in the midday sun�fs pale blue light, effectively hiding her from Roel�fs view
for a brief second. Losing sight of his target, the aged swordsman heightened his senses. A steel sword flew out of
the improvised smoke-screen like an arrow. Roel fully expected this to happen - the only reason that woman would
bring a second sword with her would be because she planned on discarding the first one anyway.

The deadly projectile aimed at his stomach was easily dodged despite its great speed. But it was not the only one. A
lump of something also flew at him from behind the cloud, forcing Roel into an even more awkward posture. He had
no time to confirm what that something was, however, as a third projectile came hurtling towards his face. Already
leaning to an unreasonable degree, Roel was forced to roll to the side as a way of avoiding it. The sound that last one
made as it whizzed by his head sent a chill at his spine - it was definitely not a good idea to meet that thing head on!

But, in hindsight, letting it hit would probably have been the right decision.

�gGUHA!�h (Roel)

�gA hit! Roel was hit by one of Ellie�fs ranged attacks! Ellie has scored first blood!�h (Announcer)

Roel felt a sharp pain in his right shoulder. While rolling to the side was a form of dodging, the end of that
movement turned one into a sitting duck. And that brief moment was what Ellie was aiming for. She had thrown her
second sword, which intercept Roel and left a noticable gash on his lightly armored body.

�gLooks to be a deep wound, but Roel is not giving up! Truly a fighting spirit worthy of a Rank A adventurer!�h
(Announcer)

Roel scrambled to his feet and took stock of his situation. The swordsman in him knew it was pointless - his right
arm no longer listened to him. However, the adventurer in him refused to give in, as evidenced by how his now
useless right hand defiantly tightened its grip around the sword it was clinging onto.

�gEllie bursts out of the dust cloud and charges forward!�h (Announcer)

Roel instantly noticed it. Her steel bracers were both gone. She had thrown them at her opponent in order to drive
him into a corner. Essentially, she created a scenario where he walked into her thrown blade all on his own. This
was Ellie�fs plan. Not as an assassin, nor as a swordsman. Or is it a swordswoman? Maybe a swordscat? Whatever
the case, she had faced him in her full capacity as a Rank A adventurer - someone whose thinking was completely
free of the shackles of common sense.

But, Roel was Rank A as well. Even if it was hopeless, he would not give in. His opponent was now unarmed and
her wrist guards were gone. Ellie had weakened her defense in order to create this chance. Although her CQC was
formidable, it would be meaningless if she failed to get in range.

That was Roel�fs only hope. He thrust his sword toward Ellie�fs approaching face. His tail was ready to strike at
her the moment she dodged to the side!

But she didn�ft dodge the sword.

*CLANG*

She caught it. She punched at it from both sides, trapping the blade between the Durasteel-reinforced knuckles of
her gloves. Gripping onto it like a vice, she used it as a lynchpin, allowing her lower body to swing forward. Her leg
drew a crescent in the air as she spun, her steel-toed boot driving into Roel�fs unsuspecting groin with bone
crushing force.

Roughly half of the audience cringed in imagined pain as Roel let out a voiceless scream. Many were silently
praying that poor man already had descendants, for it seemed unlikely he would ever get the chance.

�gUhm�c Ellie delivered an, uh, well�c I know the rules said �eanything but magic goes�f but�c�h
(Announcer)

While the announcer was at a loss for words, Ellie did not miss her chance to act. She grabbed Roel�fs
outstretched left arm and threw him over her shoulder, forcing him onto his back with a heavy thud. Still gripping
onto his arm, Ellie trapped it between her thighs and abruptly twisted it with her hands, forcing the elbow to bend
completely the wrong way!

*SNAP*

�g...�h (Roel)

Roel was already unconscious, so the tell-tale �eGYAAAAAA�f did not come out. The referee on the side was
eagerly signaling the announcer that it was over with one hand, while urging the team of medics nearby to hurry
up with the other.

�gAh, *Ahem* The winner! Ellie mil Quasse!�h (Announcer)

�g...�h (Crowd)

�gCome on you guys! Ellie�fs waiting for you! EEHEELIE! EEHEELIE!�h (Clara)

Clara jumped up and down while clapping her hands and chanting Ellie�fs name. Her fanatical vigor when it came
to all things Ellie soon spread through the rest of her club, who began to mirror her actions, getting caught up in the
flow.

�gEEHEELIE! EEHEELIE!�h (Crowd)

This kept spreading through the rest of the audience until their chanting was back into full swing. Oddly enough, the
ones who cheered the loudest were all male. Whether it was out of fear, admiration or something else entirely was
best left unsaid.

Having been declared the winner, Ellie simply nodded once and headed unceremoniously towards the dressing
room. She was silently admonishing herself over her blunder. Roel�fs last-ditch effort forced her to improvise. And
although she had aimed for his ribs, Roel�fs body shifted forward at the last moment, causing her foot to end up in
completely the wrong place. It was truly unfortunate, but she had to settle for a broken arm rather than broken ribs.
However, such thoughts were quickly forgotten. She had completed her goal of showing off sufficiently for Lara and
Sophie while and fulfilling her wife�fs instructions. Selfishly deciding the result was satisfactory, she started
idly humming as she walked down the cold and dark corridor.

Back in the VIP box, Kira was smiling happily that her dear wife won. Hmm? Traumatized opponents? Such things
are unrelated and unimportant. Sophie and Lara were still hyper from Ellie�fs dazzling display of speed, both of
them blissfully unaware of the truth behind Ellie�fs final blow. Kelly simply laughed at the surreal scene of three
medics desperately concentrating their healing magic on Roel�fs crotch.

Ariel, on the other hand, had conflicting feelings about the situation. On one hand, she was glad that �eworthless
shit-eating centipede�f named Roel was taught his rightful place. On the other hand, she was extremely jealous of
watching someone else being crushed and humiliated in public by her ruthless Mistress. And while Ellie may have
been the perpetrator, it was undoubtedly Kiressara�fs will that drove her to act. This realization reaffirmed her
conviction that she had found her rightful place in this world - firmly beneath her Mistress�fs domineering heel.
Both figuratively and literally.

The Grandmaster? He wouldn�ft have any qualms regarding the way Ellie�fs fight had ended. Honor? Fairness?
Cowardice? Clinging onto such idle thoughts on the battlefield would inevitably lead to one�fs downfall. In fact,
far from admonish, the Grandmaster would probably laud and encourage this sort of behavior.

After all, Ellie was a person who was resourceful enough to turn the environment to her advantage. Someone
cunning enough to forego common sense and use her armor as a weapon. An adventurer who could ruthlessly and
decisively exploit an opening and strike at a weak spot with no hesitation.

A truly exemplary individual, well deserving of her position as a member of the top-ranked adventurer team in the
country.

Well, such thoughts and musings would have to wait for later. Even though he was sitting cross-legged on the
ground and slouching forward with arms resting on his knees, the Grandmaster was currently unavailable.

He had fallen asleep pretty much the instant he sat down next to Kira, after all.
Chapter 130 - Those in charge should take care to properly educate their
subordinates - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Grandmaster Kilroy PoV <

�gHmm�c *Snort* Huh? Wha?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

What�fs all this? Ah, the arena�fs totally empty, isn�ft it? Judging from the snow piled up on the seats and on
my shoulders it�fs been like that for a while.

�gGrandmaster Kilroy. Good to see you are finally awake.�h (Nano/Butler)

Oh? Now there�fs an oddly nostalgic voice. There�fs only one person that has that weirdly neutral voice that
makes it impossible to tell gender or age. I turn my gaze downward and see what appears to be a man in a black
butler uniform, with a featureless white mask that only has two rectangular holes for the lifeless eyes behind them.

�g... Nano huh?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

Ah, technically Nano claims he isn�ft a person, huh?

�gI did it again, didn�ft I?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gIndeed. You were asleep for two days. It�fs almost noon on the 4th day of the third month.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gI see. Then the tournament is already over�c A pity.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

Not like I cared about the fighting itself, just the results. The only reason I came here was because I wanted to
admonish Kiressara for her careless use of magic. Which I suppose I did, in a way.

She looked so shocked about it too! Like I�fm some sort of amazing detective! As if there�fs anyone else around
here who�fs both crazy and powerful enough to freeze such a huge chunk of the ocean!

�gI would have liked a word or two more with your leader, but I guess it can�ft be helped.�h (Grandmaster
Kilroy)

�gIt is not too late. We will remain in the capital for another week before she takes her maternity leave. Shall I
make an appointment on your behalf?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gHeh.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

The Grandmaster has to make an appointment to meet his subordinate. The irony of this situation is more than a
little amusing! Well, she�fs a busier person than I am so I suppose that much is natural.

�gNo, that�fs fine. It wasn�ft anything important anyway. Just an old man�fs meddling.�h (Grandmaster
Kilroy)

I�fll apologize some other time. The way those idiots at the council thrust her into the public eye like that was
horrible. I heard she lashed out and attacked the king by throwing her shoes at him when he told her the news. Well,
she did repeatedly tell us she wanted to live as peacefully as possible, so all things considered he got off easy.

Still, I couldn�ft stand up for one of the people in my care. Some �eGrandmaster�f I am. I�fm nothing but a
glorified doorman! All I ever do is listen to complaints or hand out awards. Oh sure, I have a seat on the council that
makes the real decisions in the Adventurer�fs Guild, but I�fm just one voice among many. And I�fm often
ignored.
�gSo. What happened with the tournament?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

Personally I don�ft care about the fights themselves, but the outcome is important information to have.

�gShall I give you a brief run-down of what happened?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gYes, please.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gEllie won the first match by raising a dust cloud and using it as cover to throw her weapons at Roel. It created an
opening during which she knocked him out.�h (Nano/Butler)

I see, so she really was doing something like that. I heard she had been Kiressara�fs disciple at first, but I think she
may have surpassed her wife as an adventurer. Part of me is glad those guys agreed on a team-based Ladder rather
than an individual one. Something like that was sure to cause some internal strife among the Rank A teams.

�gGaar Lieron won the second match against the spear-user Rend. He scored a one-hit KO in the opening stages
with a blow to the head.�h (Nano/Butler)

That flat-faced problem child, huh? His skill is passable, but his attitude is terrible. The fact he won last year felt like
it was mostly due to luck. Well, having good luck is also important for an adventurer.

�gBrand Darkhand won the third match against Jake Ondonar.�h (Nano/Butler)

Now this is a surprise. Looking at their sizes, Jake was easily three times taller than that dwarven soldier. He was
clearly abnormal, even among us mountain giants. Ah, but with that much difference in size...

�gHe used that cyclops takedown combination that most dwarven shield-bearers are fond of, yes?�h (Grandmaster
Kilroy)

They charge into the knees and shatter them with a shoulder-charge, forcing their taller opponent onto the ground.
Then they continue attacking the limbs until the cyclops is left completely helpless. It�fs a brutal, but effective
method.

�gThat is correct. As for the fourth quarterfinal, the martial artist Lu Po fainted in the presence of Zublos.�h
(Nano/Butler)

Hah! That old fart! I knew something like that would happen. He may pride himself as some sort of great teacher,
but he�fs nothing more than a whelp when it comes to facing oddities like Zublos.

�gIn the semifinals, Gaar got both his arms broken by Ellie in the first moments of the match.�h (Nano/Butler)

As expected. That guy�fs really bad at dealing with agile opponents.

�gAfter that, Brand and Zublos fought for a good 20 minutes. Zublos couldn�ft get past Brand�fs defense and
Brand couldn�ft land a telling blow against Zublos�fs high-speed. After about 20 minutes, Brand�fs stamina hit
his limit and he could no longer keep up, so he lost.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gOh? Was it the same day he fought my fellow mountain giant?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gIndeed it was.�h (Nano/Butler)

He was probably still exhausted from his earlier fight. The stamina reserves of a dwarf are no joke, but there�fs no
way he can take two opponents larger than himself in a row like that. He was unlucky.

�gAs for the final match of the tournament, Ellie and Zublos exchanged blows for a good 30 minutes. No, it�fs
more accurate to say Zublos failed to hit Ellie while he received deep cuts all over his body in return.�h
(Nano/Butler)
And he didn�ft back down? Interesting. I guess Zublos must have some sort of natural armor like us mountain
giants. He�fs always wearing that robe whenever I see him, so that�fs probably the case.

�gWhen Sudden Death was announced he pulled out a small knife from inside his robe and caught Ellie slightly off
guard, stabbing it through her steel bracer and into her forearm.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gOhh! So Ellie lost, did she?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

Sudden Death rules state the first clean hit after the 30 minute mark will win, and that blow sounds like it fits the
bill.

�gYes. She overestimated how strong the arena-provided armor was and lost as a result.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gI see. I suppose she was used to bracers made of sterner stuff.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

That guy Zublos is part of their team, so he probably has some form of insider information. I would wager he
expected things to reach that point and aimed for that gap. Seems that guy has grown ever since he failed that escort
commission. Well, Zublos�fs growth is to be expected. Just look at who took him in as a disciple!

�gThat�fs one way of putting it.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gSo. I�fm guessing we�fll be having a new Rank A adventurer join [Black Flame], huh? Your boss is
collecting quite the menagerie, isn�ft she?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gThat�fs a bit rude, but not entirely untrue.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gBy the way, why are you here?�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gLara and Sophie were worried about you, so they asked me to keep an eye on you.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gHah! Hahaha! As expected of those two. They�fre good kids. Well, thank them on my behalf, will you? Also
tell your boss I will be praying for the safe birth of her child.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gOf course, Grandmaster Kilroy.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gThen, goodbye Nano. Until we meet again.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

�gGoodbye.�h (Nano/Butler)

I stand up and head toward the exit, the fresh snow crunching under my feet with each step. I can say I honestly feel
a bit relieved. I was worried about what sort of child might be born from those two, but I should�fve just looked at
their track record! Whoever or whatever is born is bound to grow up into a good kid.

Hmm... I am getting on in years. Perhaps I should find a successor so that I can retire and start a family of my own?
Heh. I�fm sure those geezers at the regular meeting will be shocked if I suddenly appoint Ellie as the next
Grandmaster.

I can see it now! She�fd show up to the first regular meeting with no idea what�fs going on, then they�fd tell her
�eyou have no place here�f and then get all in her face before she snaps and all of a sudden they�fre all going
�eGYAAAA�f while their arms and legs inexplicably bend the wrong way!

�gHeh. Hehehehe! HAH HAH HAH HAH HAAA HAA! Hooh.�h (Grandmaster Kilroy)

I�fd love to see it, but that�fs going too far just to pull a prank. Besides, I won�ft get off with just being encased
in ice if I push something unwanted like that onto Kiressara�fs wife.

AN: I'll just leave this here for the next bit. Enjoy!
> King Frederick Ferseit PoV <

�gThis is delicious ~nuts! I don�ft think I�fve ever had a cake this good ~nuts!�h (King Fred)

Ohhh, it really does make me say nuts at the end of my sentences ~nuts! This is great ~nuts! This so-called Almond
Alamein truly is full of wonder ~nuts!

BEHOLD THE FEARSOME POWER OF ZUBLOS

Said the Dark King while wearing an apron and a chef�fs hat ~nuts!

�gHahaha! Kiressara, where did you find this guy ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

I�fm glad she arranged this little get together ~nuts. Seriously, I get the feeling there won�ft be a single dull
moment if I can get this guy to visit more often ~nuts!

�gIn Runetap. Where else would you find an Ancient-Evil-turned-pastry-chef?�h (Kiressara)

�gRight ~nuts. Congrats on winning the big tournament by the way ~nuts.�h (King Fred)

ZUBLOS HAS SLAUGHTERED THOUSANDS! A PATHETIC SPAT LIKE THAT IS NO

CHALLENGE TO ONE AS MIGHTY AS I
�gWhat�fs he saying this time ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

�gI think he�fs saying �ethank you�f and �eit was a tough battle.�f Something like that, right?�h (Kira)

Zublos nods ~nuts. Hmm, I think I�fm starting to understand this weird speech impediment of his ~nuts. I�fm not
sure if that�fs a good or bad thing ~nuts.

�gYou�fre not mad at him ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

�gWhy would I be? He faced Ellie in fair combat and won. To be honest, he had to do at least that much to earn
this Rank A promotion of his.�h (Kira)

�gIndeed. Defeating an accomplished adventurer like Lady Ellie was no small feat.�h (Queen Raela)

�gHe completely caught me off-guard�c I won�ft lose next time, though!�h (Ellie)

�gIs that so ~nuts? So you�fre going to compete again next year ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

�gYeah! It was surprisingly fun!�h (Ellie)

�gI look forward to it as well. I don�ft think I�fve ever felt exhilaration like that before!�h (Kira)

�gI�fm telling you, Red! *Om nom* You need to get out more! *Nom nom* Damn, Z! This sweetroll of yours is
amazing!�h (Kelly)

ZUBLOS KNOWS NOT THE MEANING OF MERCY

�gHe means don�ft hold back and eat as much as you want! How are your cakes, by the way!?�h (Lara A)

Oh right, the waitress ~nuts. It�fs a bit unfair she has to �ework�f and serve us while the rest of us enjoy
ourselves ~nuts. Well, let�fs just think of her as one of the staff for now ~nuts. It�fs just too bad that she handled
meeting the king a lot better than most commoners ~nuts. It takes some of the fun out of it ~nuts.

�gAbsolutely marvelous my dear! These sweet dumplings are truly magnificent! I�fve never had anything like
this before!�h (Queen Raela)

�gThis cake is great too ~nuts! Both the taste and the effects are simply the best ~nuts! Nuts ~nuts. Nuts ~nuts.�h
(King Fred)

�gThis one agrees. These confections truly are splendid.�h (Ariel)

�gYeah, I can never get tired of visiting the big Z�fs shop!�h (Kelly)

�gIt was super yummy!�h (Sophie)

�gThanks big sis Lara!�h (Lara)

�gThis is so weeeird! I can�ft stooop!�h (Shalia)

Those three adorable munchkins have been hopping around since a little while ago ~nuts. I think this is their third
lap around the room ~nuts. Was that carrot cake really that good ~nuts?

�gOkay! I�fll be right here if you need me!�h (Lara A)

She bounds off and stands next to the wall with a serving tray, smiling so wide you�fd think she was eating the
cakes herself ~nuts. Ah, Kiressara did mention she was Zublos�fs fiance, right ~nuts?

Also, didn�ft one of those voices come from a weird place ~nuts? I tilt my head up to stare at the only member of
[Black Flame] not sitting at the table.

�gUhm, Kiressara ~nuts? Is your avian friend okay ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

She�fs hanging upside down from one of the chandeliers like a bat ~nuts. It�fs more than a little unnerving ~nuts.

�gShe�fll be fine. She�fs just dealing with the after effects of her World�fs End cake.�h (Kira)

�gI see ~nuts. How come Ellie is not eating anything ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

�gShe has�c stronger reactions than most people to Zublos�fs cooking. So she�fs abstaining for now.�h (Kira)

Hoho, really now ~nuts? Now I�fm even more curious to see her eat something ~nuts!

�gBy the way Freddie, you should try this one. It�fs called the King�fs Quest.�h (Kelly)

�gInteresting ~nuts. Why is it called that ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

�gNo idea. It just makes everyone look like a bunch of squares. It�fs good fun though.�h (Kelly)

That doesn�ft make any sense at all ~nuts! Then again, I�fve been saying �enuts�f for the last five minutes so I
think we�fre way past the point of things making sense ~nuts.

�gAll these squares make a circle. All these squares make a circle. All these squares make a circle.�h (Prince
Mathew)

Matt�fs been staring off into a horizon that isn�ft there for a while now ~nuts. I wonder if he�fs alright ~nuts?

�gWhat about you, my boy ~nuts? You doing alright over there ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

He stops that weird chant, turns toward me, blinks twice then goes back to staring at something beyond the wall of
the castle ~nuts.

�gHere is here only if I�fm here. There is there until I get there. Nowhere is everywhere and everywhere is
nowhere.�h (Prince Matt)

I don�ft know about him, but I�fm sure having fun ~nuts! This Matt is way more interesting than the regular one
~nuts! I wonder if it�fs okay to secretly feed him more of those muffins ~nuts. As expected of the cuisine of that
soon-to-be-Rank-A chef, huh ~nuts? Come to think of it, what�fs up with that ~nuts?

�gSo you never told me ~nuts. Why is it that Zublos there had to earn himself Rank A in the first place ~nuts? He
already has a successful shop, right ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

�gHe wanted to expand and open a branch store in the capital, but failed the background check.�h (Kira)

�gReally now ~nuts? But you vouched for him, right ~nuts?�h (King Fred)

Roel�fs report said he was one of the people who traveled up north with the rest of them to find help for
Kiressara�fs condition ~nuts. He seems to have their trust, so that has to count for something ~nuts.

�gI tried, but it was no good. Apparently some people really dislike the idea of an Ancient Evil living here.�h
(Kira)

Bunch of hypocrites if you ask me ~nuts. So what if Zublos killed a bunch people thousands of years ago ~nuts?
Some of our ancestors were equally as bloodthirsty ~nuts. Besides, wasn�ft he sealed for all that time ~nuts? If you
think of it like serving one�fs sentence and reintegrating into society, then he�fs basically a rehabilitated model
citizen ~nuts!

�gI need you to tell me who those people were ~nuts. To defy the authority of the king like that, it makes me more
than a little angry ~nuts!�h (King Fred)

�gAuthority of the king? Did Your Majesty have something to do with this?�h (Kira)

�gWhat are you saying ~nuts? You showed them the royal seal and they still rejected you ~nuts!�h (King Fred)

I won�ft go so far as to call that treason, but it�fs still a serious crime ~nuts!

�gWhat do you mean, Your Majesty?�h (Kira)

Why is she making a face like she has no idea what I�fm talking about ~nuts? Come to think of it, she isn�ft
wearing any rings ~nuts...

�g... You did use my seal, right ~nuts? I gave you that ring specifically to cut through red tape like that, didn�ft I
~nuts?�h (King Fred)

Her eyes pop out and her jaw hangs open ~nuts. I have a bad feeling about this ~nuts...

�gThat�fs what that was?! I had no idea! You�fre telling me I�fve been sitting on the answer for Zublos�fs
problem for all these months?! Why didn�ft you tell me I could do that sort of thing!�h (Kira)

�gI�fm pretty sure I did, though ~nuts.�h (King Fred)

I mean, it�fs something given to all my Ministers ~nuts. Can�ft have them bother me with every little problem
that pops up you know ~nuts! Well, I�fd have to hang them if they abused it, but Kiressara seems like the sensible
sort so I don�ft have to worry about that sort of thing ~nuts. Probably ~nuts.

�gNo! You didn�ft! What you said at the time was �eHere, just make sure you don�ft lose it!�f before you
tossed it casually at me and moved onto talking about your daughter! How was I supposed to know that ring was
something important like a royal seal?!�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs common knowledge around the castle though ~nuts?�h (King Fred)
�gI don�ft live here!�h (Kira)

Ah�c now that she mentions it, she only drops by for a visit every week or so ~nuts. Hmm�c could it be that I was
somehow at fault ~nuts?

�gFrederick.�h (Queen Raela)

Uh oh ~nuts!

�gW-well, what�fs done is done ~nuts! No need to dwell on the past ~nuts. Besides, Zublos won a sizable sum to
build his new store so it all worked out fine ~nuts!�h (King Fred)

And they never bothered to ask for my help in the first place, so they share at least part of the blame for this ~nuts!

*WHAM*

�gOuch ~nuts!�h (King Fred)

Something hard just hit me on the back of the head ~nuts!

�gOh no you don�ft!�h (Queen Raela)

�gWha- Raela ~nuts? Wh-where did you get that rolling pin ~nuts?!�h (King Fred)

�gThat�fs not important right now! You�fre apologizing properly to your Minister and her friend for being an
irresponsible sovereign!�h (Queen Raela)

*WHAM*

�gAAACK! Alright ~nuts! I�fm sorry ~nuts! Please forgive me ~nuts!�h (King Fred)

This Raela is three times scarier than normal ~nuts! And judging from that icy glare, I won�ft be forgiven that
easily either ~nuts! Haah�c I have a feeling I�fm sleeping on the couch tonight ~nuts.

Again ~nuts.
Chapter 131 - The so-called miracle of life can be a surprisingly
disgusting process - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

Ellie grips my hand reassuringly while Nano�fs golem hovers over my exposed belly. The floating eye-ball like
construct has been staring intently at it from several angles for quite a while now. While I�fm glad I don�ft need
to get out of bed for this, that cold gaze is starting to make me feel a little uneasy.

�g... So how is it?�h (Kira)

{Nope. Can�ft see it all.}

The floating orb turned itself left and right, doing its best impression of a shaking head. It honestly feels a bit less
awkward to have something that represents Nano in the room for once. No matter how much time passes, some part
of me just can�ft accept talking to someone while staring at a wall.

Eye contact is a vital part of having a conversation, after all.

�gWell, that�fs normal, right? Something like seeing inside someone�fs womb�c�h (Kira)

{Oh no, there are definitely ways to do it.}

So such a thing exists after all?!

{Granted, I lack the right tools, but this modified eye should have been able to make out its bones, or at least the
general shape. That is, if it were human. But as it turns out, its a failure.}

�gIt�fs okay Nano. You can�ft handle magic that well after all!�h (Ellie)

{Yeah. I can�ft do anything about magic at all.}

Huh, that was odd. Nano spoke in the same old monotone, so why do I get the feeling Nano is angry about
something?

�gYou�fre not okay with being unable to feel and manipulate mana, are you?�h (Kira)

{No. I really am not. It�fs frustrating that I can�ft be of more help at such an important time. I feel completely
useless.}

Well, it�fs normal for someone to be angry about being unable to overcome their limits. But I think Nano is
focusing on the wrong thing.

�gAnd who said you were useless?! You take such good care of us all! The house is always spotless, the meals are
delicious and keep us healthy and you do an excellent job of keeping Sophie and Lara safe when we�fre not
around.�h (Kira)

{Maybe, but you would still be fine without me doing such trivial things.}

�gDon�ft you dare say looking after our family is trivial! You�fre one of the few people I trust with such an
important task! You�fre way more dependable than a certain violent alcoholic or that perverted canary! And
you�fre not even a person!�h (Kira)

Nano�fs presence in this house has become irreplaceable! Even seemingly mundane things like having those
golems handle all the chores allows us wives to spend more time with our children. Such a thing is truly invaluable.
�gAlso, wasn�ft Nano the one who suggested we visit the titans after Kira collapsed? Was it also not Nano who
allowed us to subdue Red Skittles with minimal risk?�h (Ellie)

Ellie joined in on this little pep-talk. She�fs known Nano the longest, so she knows best what to say in these
situations.

{Yes, I suppose those things happened.}

�gI don�ft say it as often as I should, but I am truly grateful to you for being here for us every single day.�h
(Kira)

�gI agree. Even if you can�ft do everything, you�fre still handling so many things at once for our sake. You
should focus on doing the things you can do, and leave the rest to us! Unlike before, we have so many allies now!
�h (Ellie)

{I know that. It�fs just that some part of me cannot accept failure. Call me a perfectionist, but I despise seeing my
efforts go to waste like this.}

�gWhat are you talking about? So what if you failed to see into my belly? Such a thing is normally impossible,
right?�h (Kira)

The only reason we�fre trying this in the first place is that Nano insisted. I felt incredibly bloated over the last two
weeks and simply giving voice to my discomfort sent Nano into action.

{In a way, I suppose it is. I lack the proper tools after all.}

�gThen isn�ft failing to do the impossible the expected result?�h (Kira)

{Oh. Oh! That�fs right, isn�ft it? Haha, silly me!}

�c

Nano seriously thought doing absurd things was the norm around here, huh? I honestly can�ft blame that sort of
thinking though. Despite what I say, I still half expected this little endeavor to bear fruit. Well, I�fm sure
challenging common sense is what made me the Minister of Progress. Though the Director might disagree with me
on the value of some of our projects. If that were another person.

At first I was skeptical as to being appointed to both positions, but I understand it now. The Director directs, while
the Minister ministers. Having both of those be the same person really saves a lot of headaches. I guess it also shows
His Majesty trusts me a fair bit - it�fs super easy to embezzle funds like this, you know! Not that I�fd risk doing
something stupid like that. If I get caught I won�ft be able to live peacefully any more.

�gSo Nano. You think it will be necessary after all?�h (Ellie)

{Probably. It�fs the safest way, all things considered. Normally that sort of procedure carriest the risk of
complications, but since we can rely on Ariel�fs healing magic then I think it�fs definitely the safest option.}

�gRisks? Option? What?�h (Kira)

{Ah. It�fs something Ellie brought to my attention and part of why I tried to look at the baby directly. We don�ft
know how big the head is or which way it�fs facing, so it could be potentially bad.}

�gHow bad?�h (Kira)

{You and/or the baby might be seriously injured.}

�gThat�fs pretty bad.�h (Kira)

{No worries though. Like I said, there�fs another option. Although a natural birth is preferable in most cases, this
is not most cases. I will therefore have to cut the baby out of you when the time comes.}

�gCut it out of me?! Are you serious!?�h (Kira)

{Quite serious. It�fs actually a common practice in our previous world. And while there are some risks, we can
eliminate them completely with magic. With Ariel here to watch over you, I can guarantee that it will be completely
safe.}

�g�c Sorry for freaking out. I trust you and Ellie with my life, so it shoudld�fve been obvious that you two
would pick the best course of action on my behalf. I just... the notion of such a thing is unheard of.�h (Kira)

{I know. This is why I wanted to spread this sort of knowledge to those who would listen once the General Academy
goes into full swing.}

�gOh, that so-called �eFirst Aid Course�f huh?�h (Kira)

Ways of dealing with fractures, infections and other injuries that don�ft revolve around potions or healing magic.
Adventurers aside, I�fm sure many of the townsfolk would be glad for that sort of thing.

{That�fs right. Although I hope to expand upon it in the future. If we combine that knowledge with magic, we can
help save countless lives.}

�gHah. And all I can do is sit here like a beached whale. Now look who�fs feeling useless.�h (Kira)

�gNo such thing! Kira is-�h (Ellie)

�gCalm down, Ellie! I was only kidding.�h (Kira)

She was probably going to go on another tirade about how I�fm wonderful and perfect and the �ebest person
ever�f and �ethe greatest wife in the world�f or a �epeerless beauty that outshines even the sun�f or-

Damn, I shouldn�ft have opened my big mouth! I really want her to praise me now!

{In any case I�fll be keeping everyone on high alert. The baby could come any day now.}

I see, if Nano says �eany day now�f then the moment of truth must be close at hand. I�fm nervous, but I�fll be
fine. We even had Skittles come back to Runetap with us just so she can keep an eye on things. She really is much
easier to deal with than those other guys.

...

No, come to think of it, Nano�fs prediction is slightly off.

***

�gHnn�c Huh?�h (Kira)

�gKira! You�fre up!�h (Ellie)

The first thing I�fm greeted by after waking up is Ellie�fs magnificently smiling face.

�gGood morning, beautiful�c�h (Kira)

My vision�fs still a little blurry, but there�fs no way someone else could make that sort of expression that�fs so
excited just to see me wake up.
�gLook! Look! It�fs amazing!�h (Ellie)

�gHmm? Amazing?�h (Kira)

I wearily lift my head and look around. Ellie - check. Same old bedroom - check. My wonderful wife - check. Soft
bed underneath me - check. The love of my life - check. Extremely comfortable pillow - check. The one that
completes me - check. Bloated stomach - not check?

I blink a few times as realization hit me. That�fs right! My water broke earlier! Then Nano had to put me under!

�gWhere?!�h (Kira)

�gRight here. Come say hello!�h (Ellie)

Ellie hands me the white bundle of cloth she�fs been holding. I carefully take it in my hands and behold the
precious new life we brought into this world with my own eyes!

�gGaaa!�h (Baby)

...

Are we sure this came out of me? I was fully prepared for it to not be human, but this a bit�c

�gKahahaha!�h (Baby)

No. This is definitely my child. I�fm not sure how or why, but I just know. Just like a year ago, when a certain
stranger proposed to me before she even told me her name, I just know.

This is a precious existence that I do not want to part with.

�gHey you! Look at you! Aren�ft you the lively one?!�h (Kira)

A smile spreads on my face and I rock the baby in my arms, enjoying the soft giggles she makes.

�g*Sniffle* This might just be the happiest moment of my life. I don�ft know if anything can top it.�h (Kira)

The elation in my chest and the flood of tears from my eyes aren�ft enough to express just how much joy I�fm
feeling right now.

�gEvery day I spend with Kira is the happiest day of mine.�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu, that�fs sweet of you. I guess it�fs the same for me too, hmm? I know I look forward to watching our
little bundle of joy grow up!�h (Kira)

That�fs right. This is my child. That is all that matters. So what if she�fs a bit different? We will love her all the
same.

So what if she�fs covered in jagged cream-colored crystals rather than skin? They still feel warm and my child
responds properly when I touch them. The hard, slightly reflective surface makes them quite fun to look at, actually.

So what if she has no ears? She still responds to our voices, so she can obviously hear us.

So what if she has no lips? It doesn�ft stop her mouth from forming a perfectly adorable little smile.

So what if her eyes are made of smooth crystals? The shiny white sclera and slightly glowing pale blue irises give
her a deep, almost mystical stare that makes it hard to look away.

So what if her face is thin and pointed like a V shape? She�fs still going to grow up into a beautiful person. Both
inside and out.

So what if the top of her head isn�ft covered in hair? Those spike-like crystal formations look plenty cute in their
own way. Well, patting her head when she�fs being a good girl might be a bit difficult, but I�fll find a way!

So what if half her arms around the elbows are missing? You�fd think they were invisible with the way her
forearms float around so naturally. Not to mention it�fs incredibly endearing to watch her little crystalline hands
grip onto my fingers with such vigor!

�gI�fm so relieved. Look how strong and lively she is! She�fs bound to become a kind and strong woman like
her mother!�h (Kira)

�g... Uhm. Kira. I don�ft think it�fs going to go down that way, exactly.�h (Ellie)

�gHuh? What do you mean? She�fs not sick or something, is she?!�h (Kira)

�gNo! She�fs fine! Skittles and Nano both said the baby was perfectly fine. Well, Nano broke for a bit, but that
was the final verdict!�h (Ellie)

�gDon�ft scare me like that! You know how worried I get about our family!�h (Kira)

�gSorry Kira. What I meant to say is, that�fs not a girl�c exactly.�h (Ellie)

�gHm? Really? Well, I guess it�fs no big deal.�h (Kira)

I�fm only a bit disappointed. I was already completely convinced our child was a girl, like something inside me
said that it was so. Motherly instinct? Yeah, let�fs go with that!

I�fm not claiming that sort of thing just because I think little girls are way more adorable than little boys, either.

This and that are completely unrelated.

�gThat�fs fine. Having a strong little man around the house will be just as good!�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs not right either.�h (Ellie)

�g...�h (Kira)

�gIt would be much easier to explain if you just checked for yourself.�h (Ellie)

I gently unwrap the bundle of cloth to reveal the child�fs lower half. I see the knees are mysteriously missing just
like the elbows, but there�fs something a bit more outrageous nearby. Or rather, an outrageous lack of something.

�gWhy is there nothing there?!�h (Kira)

I mean, there�fs certainly a gap between the thighs, but there�fs absolutely nothing there! It�fs completely
smooth!

�gI don�ft know. Skittles doesn�ft either. Nano broke when I asked, so I don�ft think we�fll get an answer to
this question. What we do know is that it�fs an entirely new form of life�c�h (Ellie)

�gWell! Since she seems to have no gender down there, why not just raise her the way we know - like a cheerful
little girl?�h (Kira)

I wrap her lower half back up and resume cradling her.

�gIs that okay?�h (Ellie)

�gMhm. I see no problems here. If she decides she wants to be treated like a boy when she grows up, then we�fll
do just that!�h (Kira)

�gOh! I see! As expected of the wise Kira! I was honestly troubled over how to handle this!�h (Ellie)

�gSimple solutions are the best after all. We�fll just have to be vigilant for any unexpected changes as she gets
bigger. Then, once there are no longer any surprises we can thoroughly enjoy having more kids!�h (Kira)

�gM-m-more?�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs right! Skittles healed us, right?�h (Kira)

Something about attuning us to the world or whatever? I wasn�ft listening properly at the time, that titan talk is a
bit loony anyway. Not to mention I had more important things to do - such as soaking in my wife�fs beauty with
what felt like a fresh pair of eyes!

�gI�fm sure if we combine and focus our efforts, something like twenty or thirty kids is completely possible!�h
(Kira)

�gT-t-t-twenty?! THIRTY?!�h (Ellie)

�gOf course! Well, I really want a hundred, but I�fm trying to be realistic.�h (Kira)

�gNo! I think even twenty is way too much! Won�ft it put too much strain on you?!�h (Ellie)

�gOh? But you�fll be helping me, won�ft you? I�fm sure we�fll find a way to get double-pregnant together
~?!�h (Kira)

�gTh-th-that! Uhm!�h (Ellie)

Fufufu, I love how flustered she gets whenever I talk about something new and unknown to her. I�fve slightly
missed seeing Ellie�fs embarrassingly innocent and inexperienced side ~?!

�gIf-if-if Kira wants to, then thirty is simple! Even a hundred is easy! Let�fs aim for two, no, make that four
hundred babies!�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs the spirit! I�fll be looking forward to your cooperation during Spring ~?!�h (Kira)

�gYes! It would be my pleasure!�h (Ellie)

�gGyaakakaa!�h (Baby)

�gLook! Even the little one is excited! Ah, we still haven�ft given her a name!�h (Kira)

�gOh right! About that, I actually wanted to let Nano name her.�h (Ellie)

�gMmm, I like that idea. Did Nano recover already?�h (Kira)

She mentioned something about Nano breaking again.

{Yes, I�fm much better now. I must say, Kira�fs ability to not mind things has clearly leveled up. I truly have
much to learn.}

�gAh, I see. Then I�fll be looking forward to your hard work in the future! So, any ideas for a name?�h (Kira)

{... Aura.}

�gAura, huh? It has a nice ring to it. Does it have some sort of meaning?�h (Kira)
{It was the name of Ellie�fs mother. The one she never knew. The one I failed to find. The one regret I left behind.}

�gNano? You were looking for my mom?�h (Ellie)

�gYou could�fve mentioned that sort of thing earlier.�h (Kira)

{I didn�ft want to give Ellie any false hope. Although I didn�ft know for sure, it�fs highly likely that old fart
already killed her off. Or worse - he might have ended up using her as bait. Whatever the case, she�fs now forever
beyond our reach.}

�gI see. Aura, hmm? The meaning behind it is a little sad, but I still think it�fs a splendid name.�h (Kira)

Honoring one�fs ancestors by passing down their name is an old custom, but it�fs one I can agree with
wholeheartedly. Especially since I�fll probably never know who my actual ancestors were.

�gI agree. It�fs the name Nano chose, so it�fs excellent as expected. I approve completely!�h (Ellie)

�gWhat do you think, little Aura?�h (Kira)

I slightly poke the small �egirl�f on the cheek. She grabs my finger and gives a happy gurgle.

�gLooks like she likes it. Good day, Aura! I�fm glad you were safely born!�h (Kira)

�gKira�c I want to play with the baby too�c�h (Ellie)

�g... Ohhh, alright. Here.�h (Kira)

I wrap Aura back up and hand her to my wife. They start getting to know each other right away. Ah�c I miss the
little one already! Oh? It seems Aura is ticklish around the tips of her �ehair!�f This is good information! Huh?

Actually, wasn�ft the shape of that head super dangerous for me?! Nano said the natural way to give birth was for
the baby to come out head-first, but if we did that, then it might have turned into a really gruesome scene!

Oh wow! We dodged an arrow on that one!

Come to think of it, even though she was cut out of me, I don�ft feel even the slightest bit of pain or discomfort! In
fact, I feel strong enough to lift an ox! Also I won�ft have to worry about any sort of stretching down there, will I?

Nano, good job! I already knew we had nothing to worry about, but confirming this now feels great all the same!
Nano really is the best at looking after people! Honestly, the whole experience after that rocky start was truly
unforgettable!

Ten out of ten, would get knocked up again! Well, that�fll probably have to wait until Spring, but that won�ft stop
us from trying in the meantime ~?!
Chapter 132 - It's the duty of all living things to eat, sleep and poop. Not
necessarily in that order. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

I slowly bring the spoonful of baby food towards Aura�fs mouth.

�gGyabuu!�h (Aura)

And she turns her head away with a frown.

�gHaaah, I guess this one�fs a failure too.�h (Kira)

{I really am running out of ideas. We�fve tried almost every type of baby food I could think of.}

All sorts of pureed and creamed substances, mostly fruits and vegetables that are supposed to be good for them.
Even when we tried forcing it into her mouth, she just spit it out immediately and started crying. Maybe it�fs
something in the smell or taste? I bring the spoonful of red Snow Peach Puree to my nose and take a sniff. It
doesn�ft smell bad at all.

*Nom*

Hmm�c it�fs actually pretty tasty. I wouldn�ft mind eating this as a dessert to be honest.

�gThis is troubling. She hasn�ft eaten anything since she was born yesterday�c�h (Ellie)

Ellie gives voice to my worries. It�fs true, this is concerning. She hasn�ft cried out of hunger yet, but I should
definitely feed my baby before it gets to that point, right?

�gAh! I know! Babies need to breastfeed, right?�h (Ellie)

�gOh! Of course, why didn�ft I think of that!�h (Kira)

{That�fs pointless though. Kira�fs body isn�ft producing any breast milk, right?}

�gWell, I�fm going to try anyway! I have a feeling something might come out! Here Ellie, hold her for a
second.�h (Kira)

I hand the still sulking Aura to her mother. Or is father? No, that sounds weird. Also prone to cause
misunderstandings. Let�fs just stick with mother.

{Breast milk doesn�ft just �ecome out�f though.}

I ignore Nano�fs retort while I unbutton my shirt. A few moments later I expose my left nipple to the slightly
cool air. It�fs a good thing nobody�fs in the living room right now, or I�fd be branded a pervert! Well, almost
nobody.

�gEllie, don�ft stare so hard, okay!? This is for the baby�fs sake!�h (Kira)

�gSorry�c�h (Ellie)

Honestly! You�fd think she�fd never seen my exposed chest before!

I take Aura back into my arms and bring her up to my teat. She eagerly latches onto it. Her hard crystal mouth sinks
into my breast flesh slightly. It�fs a tiny bit painful, almost like a play-bite. Even though she has no teeth yet. Wait,
will she even grow teeth?

She starts suckling on me with all her strength.

�gOh?! Look at her go!�h (Kira)

�gWoah! She�fs almost as good as me!�h (Ellie)

Ellie�c I don�ft think that�fs something you want to be saying out loud. Even if you do have a point.

�gSee, Nano? You should trust Ellie a bit more! She�fs a Rank A adventurer, you know.�h (Kira)

I smile pleasantly while enjoying the sensation of my breastfeeding my baby.

{Nothing�fs coming out though, is it?}

�gAh, there�fs no milk, but she�fs eagerly absorbing my mana.�h (Kira)

I can feel it flowing out through the tip of my nipple. The sensation is a bit weird, almost ticklish. It�fs a bit
uncomfortable, but I�fll put up with it. It�fs important for my baby, after all.

{Oh. Oh right, of course! Why didn�ft I think of that?}

�gBecause you�fre bad with anything that has to do with mana?�h (Ellie)

{... Right.}

Oh crap, Nano�fs getting moody again. I think this whole �eunable to feel mana�f thing is really starting to
weigh down on Nano. I want to help somehow, but I have no idea what to do. Mana needs a will to flow in a
specific direction, and Nano can�ft exert that sort of influence over it without a body of flesh and blood.

Well, those titans are different, but they�fre walking anomalies to begin with. Besides, they have souls. Nano is a
machine without one, after all. At first all Nano did was call it �ea pity�f without minding it, but lately I think
it�fs really starting to gnaw at Nano. Even if those feelings and emotions �earen�ft real�f as Nano claims, I
don�ft believe they�fre entirely �efake�f either.

*SLAM*

Sophie and Lara burst into the living room and run around to where we�fre sitting. I haven�ft seen them around
since we introduced them to Aura last night. They stared at her in amazement saying things like 'Cool!' and 'As
expected!' so I don�ft think they�fll pick on her for being different.

Not that I�fd allow that sort of thing in the first place!

�gMom! Can I play with- Ack!�h (Lara)

�gHm? What is it big sis?�h (Sophie)

�gMom! Why are you naked?!�h (Lara)

Oh right... Well, let�fs take this as an opportunity to educate them a little!

�gI�fm just breastfeeding your little sister. A baby that�fs barely been born should be fed like this by its mother.
It�fs perfectly natural.�h (Kira)

Well�c the context is a bit off, but I�fm not saying anything weird, right?

�gI see!�h (Lara)

�gOhhh...�h (Sophie)

Both of them stare with awed expressions at Aura. No, make that all three of them. Ellie, please don�ft be jealous
of our daughter okay? I�fll give you your turn later ~?!

�gDabuuu!�h (Aura)

After a few minutes of this, Aura separated from my teat and showed me a delighted expression. She waved her
little hands around and eagerly explored the room with her eyes.

�gShe�fs so cute! Can I try feeding her? Can I?!�h (Lara)

Wahh! This is unexpected! I mean, I know Lara�fs the dutiful type, but there�fs no way that would work, right?
Wait, if it�fs just about mana then... No, a nine-year old trying to breastfeed is definitely a bad idea!

�gLara, this is the mother�fs duty. You have your own role as the elder sister to worry about, right?�h (Ellie)

Ellie, good job!

�gYeah! Big sis just needs to focus on being the best big sis ever! So just do what you normally do!�h (Sophie)

�gHuhuhuh, that�fs right, isn�ft it? Perhaps I should teach Sophie on how to be an amazingly wonderful sister
like myself while I�fm at it?�h (Lara)

No, Lara, nobody went as far as to say thing like that. Still, it�fs not a bad way to distract her from trying anything
dubious.

�gThat�fs a very good idea, sweetie.�h (Kira)

�gBut�c I don�ft think I can fight off homeless dogs like big sis can�c�h (Sophie)

�gAck! No Sophie! We don�ft have to worry about those anymore, right?!�h (Lara)

�gBut! It might happen! Mommy says to expect the unexpected!�h (Sophie)

I throw a glance at Ellie while the two bicker over that worrying topic. Just what has she been teaching them?!

�gHmm?�h (Ellie)

She looks back at me with a puzzled expression. Maybe it wasn�ft on purpose? Or was I the culprit? I honestly
can�ft tell... I do feel a bit proud for them thinking about their safety though.

�gKira.�h (Ellie)

�gYes, Ellie?�h (Kira)

She just taps the middle of her chest with a finger. What is she-

Oh. Right. I�fm still on full display. I put away the goods and make myself decent again.

{I have a suggestion.}

Nice, Nano�fs already cheered up! Guess we don�ft need to have another pep talk! I don�ft think I�fm very
good at those.

{It�fs probable her diet hasn�ft changed from when she was in the womb. Which means she probably needs mana
alongside her nutrients.}
�gI think so too. Just mana might not be enough. How do we get her to eat actual food, though?�h (Ellie)

{With Kira�fs help. I want her to try preparing the Snow Peach Puree next time.}

�gHm? What sort of difference will that make?�h (Kira)

{Without the Titansteel cutlery.}

�c

{It�fs likely that she somehow taste mana. The puree I prepared had none of it. Therefore, there�fs a good chance
Aura will eat Kira�fs leth- I mean, �emana enriched�f cooking.}

Hey! You almost said �elethal,�f didn�ft you?

{It�fs highly she won�ft find it pois-, I mean, she�fll probably think it�fs delicious.}

You wanted to call my cooking �epoisonous�f just now, didn�ft you?!

�gMom? What�fs wrong? Why are you and Mom spacing out all of a sudden?�h (Lara)

�gDid Nano say something mean?�h (Sophie)

�gYour, uhm�c Your mother might have to cook-�h (Ellie)

�gYay!�h (Sophie and Lara)

�g-without using her special pots and pans.�h (Ellie)

�gGAH! �h (Sophie and Lara)

�gStop with those horrified expressions! It�fs really hurtful! And don�ft throw your hands up in the air like that,
it�fs unbecoming! Besides, I�fm not going to do it because I want to, okay? it�fs necessary for the baby!�h
(Kira)

No, why are they getting even more horrified?! Are they making fun of me? They�fre definitely making fun of me!

�gThat�fs it! No supper for you two!�h (Kira)

Their wide-eyed open-jawed expressions of abject horror disappear in an instant, replaced by triumphant smiles.

�gYes! Great job big sis!�h (Sophie)

They high-five each other.

�gThanks Aura! We won�ft forget your sacrifice!�h (Lara)

�gBabuu?�h (Aura)

Lara gives off a small salute to the dumbfounded Aura and skips out of the room, followed by Sophie. Why did they
even come in here to begin with?!

{Ah, it looks like Kelly and Puff will be back in about five minutes.}

�gAlready? I thought her visit would take longer.�h (Kira)

She wanted to visit her home back in Hardvark. Something about pacifying her mother again. I don�ft want that
woman to come anywhere near me or my family so I lent her Puff for the trip.
{She got excited and left Hardvark pretty much the instant I told her the baby was safely born. That�fs all I�fve
told her though. I haven�ft mentioned anything about what Aura looks like.}

�gHuh? Why not?�h (Kira)

{I�fm worried what would happen if I told them something like this when she�fs without supervision.}

�gGood call, Nano. Is that why we stocked up on Werewolf Ale?�h (Ellie)

{Yep. I had Ariel pick up a few kegs this morning just in case.}

�gAlright, looks like our Kelly Pacification preparations are complete. Come on, Kira, let�fs meet them outside
and get this over with.�h (Ellie)

Right. Kelly tends to get blackout drunk after her �eminding it too much�f episodes. It�fs been getting a bit
better lately, though. Her worst one was when she found out I was pregnant with Aura, so the continuation of that is
not going to be pretty, is it?

�gOkay, just let me wrap Aura in a few blankets. It�fll lessen the impact.�h (Kira)

Also, it�fs cold outside. Newborn babies are delicate things, I need to be careful.

> Kelly PoV <

�gKwaa!�h (Puff)

Puff cries out from beneath me. Looks like we�fre getting close. I pat his back twice with a bit of force to show I
understood. We�fre flying at high speed so my voice is unlikely to reach him.

And as expected, the black tower stands out like a sore thumb amidst the forest of snow-covered trees. Puff
gradually lowers his attitude and speed as he takes us in for a smooth landing. He touches down on the front yard,
next to the tower.

�gKrak.�h (Puff)

�gGreat work as usual, Puff.�h (Kelly)

I unbuckle myself from the oversized saddle and climb down. I swear, Puff just keeps growing bigger. Well, his
species is supposed to be on the larger side to begin with, but his back is really wide. Riding on it is closer to sitting
on the ground than riding horseback at this point�c

�gAlright, I�fm down. You can go now, big guy.�h (Kelly)

I pat his side twice. He gives me a nod and a �eKwaak�f and flies off towards his nest at the top of the tower. He
must be exhausted from the long flight.

�gHey Kelly. Enjoy your trip?�h (Kira)

�gOh hey Red. �eEnjoy�f may be a bit too strong a word, but it certainly wasn�ft dull. You know, you didn�ft
have to come out and meet me.�h (Kelly)

�gNonsense. You came back because you wanted to meet the baby, right? No point in keeping you waiting.�h
(Kira)

Well there�fs that, but I mostly didn�ft want to spend another second with that mother of mine. I love a good
drink and a good fight, usually in that order, but that�fs all that woman does! I know Red wanted me to do spend
time with Dagna since she�fs still part of my family, but I bloody don�ft. Knowing Red, she�fd probably get
bummed out if I told her I still can�ft stand my own mother.

�gSo where is the little one? That her, is it?�h (Kelly)

�gYep. Kelly meet Aura. Aura, this is Kelly.�h (Kira)

She unwraps the blankets she�fs been holding to reveal a shiny yellow head with spikes growing out of it.

�gOhh! She looks so precious!�h (Kelly)

Literally. That crystal looks like high-grade Thunder Topaz! It just might be that, actually! Ack! No, calm down
Kelly. This is a living being, not a crafting material.

�gCan I hold her?�h (Kelly)

�gUh�c�h (Kira)

�gI�fm completely sober, Red.�h (Kelly)

�gThat�fs what worries me�c�h (Kira)

Red glances over to Ellie and they nod at each other. That weird way they understand each other is getting to be a
little bit creepy, honestly. Also, I�fm pretty sure whatever they�fre thinking about me isn�ft flattering at all!

�gAlright, here you go. Careful now!�h (Kira)

�gRelax Red. I�fve been handling Blast Powder lately, I know how to be gentle.�h (Kelly)

I ignore Red�fs twitching smile and carefully accept the wrapped up child.

�gIs it a boy or a girl?�h (Kelly)

�gUhm. Neither. We�fre going to raise her like a girl though.�h (Kira)

�gGood call.�h (Kelly)

�g... It is?�h (Kira)

�gWell yeah. Little girls are way more adorable than little boys, right?�h (Kelly)

�g*Cough* I s-suppose that�fs true.�h (Kira)

Hit the nail on the head, huh. Looks like Red�fs been practicing her self-delusions again. Well, that�fs fine, it�fs
her way of coping with things. I don�ft think it�fs as healthy for one�fs self esteem as getting blackout drunk
though.

�gDabuu!�h (Aura)

�gWow, look at her glisten! What a healthy sheen she has! Hmm? Hey Red, her lack of elbows isn�ft going to be
a problem, right?�h (Kelly)

�gUhh�c What do you mean?�h (Kira)

�gDoesn�ft it hurt if something gets in there? I can sense a faint flow of mana in that gap, if that�fs disturbed her
forearms won�ft just fall off right?�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Kira)
�gWe decided to wait until she can talk with us before we do anything�c potentially dangerous. If she can�ft
properly tell us how she�fs feeling, we don�ft know how to treat her limbs�c and stuff.�h (Ellie)

Yep, they didn�ft think about it all. Ellie sounded like she made that excuse up on the spot to cover for her wife.
Well, I don�ft want to ruin the mood so I�fll roll with it.

�gI see. That makes sense.�h (Kelly)

�gIt does?�h (Kira)

�gOf course. Her mothers know best, right? I certainly have no idea what to do with this little one. She is eating
properly at least, isn�ft she?�h (Kelly)

Living things gave a duty to eat and grow. This kid should be able to do at least that much to qualify.

�gWe just figured out Kira could breastfeed her, actually. And Nano had an idea for moving her onto solid foods
later.�h (Ellie)

�gOh! Nice one, Nano!�h (Kelly)

{Thanks. It�fs not much, but I try.}

What�fs with that dispirited response?

�gHas Nano been sulking over the whole �esoulless machine that can�ft use mana�f thing again?�h (Kelly)

�gA little.�h (Kira)

�gSay Nano. I�fve been thinking about that a little. You�fre made out of lots of tiny little things, right?�h
(Kelly)

{Right.}

�gAnd you can make more of them, right?�h (Kelly)

{Right.}

�gSo why not make them out of Mithril or Orichalcum?�h (Kelly)

{... Huh?}

�gThey�fre often described as �eliving metals�f you know. At least that�fs what Draglael calls them. It makes
sense if you think about how easily mana flows through them. That�fs also probably why this metal arm of mine
works so well with the rest of my body.�h (Kelly)

I wave my right arm around for emphasis. Well, you can�ft see it under my coat, but it�fs definitely the one made
of Mithril.

I think.

{Hmm, I haven�ft thought of it that way. I�fm not sure if that stuff is safe, though. It might poison Ellie if it floats
around in her blood.}

�gNano! I think it�fs a great idea! You won�ft get ahead in life if you hold back! Besides, you�fre sure to be
extra careful, right?!�h (Ellie)

I don�ft think Ellie�fs one to lecture others about �eholding back,�f but she does have a point.
�gNothing ventured nothing gained, right?�h (Kelly)

{Alright. I�fll start playing around with it. I appreciate the input, Kelly.}

�gLeast I could do, Nano.�h (Kelly)

Hmm? Come to think of it, the kid�fs been quiet for a while now.

�gOh. I think she fell asleep.�h (Kelly)

Her eyes are closed her hands and head have gone limp. Ellie did mention they just fed her so that�fs probably
why.

�gAh? You�fre right. Here, give her to me, I�fll go tuck her in.�h (Ellie)

I hand the baby to Ellie. She picks it up with her mind powers instead of her hands. Is that okay? It�fs probably
okay. She carries Sophie and Lara around like that a lot so it�fs okay, right?

I watch her as she disappears inside the tower.

�gYou know Kelly, I expected you to be a bit more�c�h (Kira)

�gA bit more what?�h (Kelly)

�gMindful.�h (Kira)

�gAh? Oh about the whole magical glass baby thing?�h (Kelly)

�gThat�fs rude! Please don�ft call my daughter that!�h (Kira)

�gSorry. What should I call her though?�h (Kelly)

{We decided on Archon. It�fs the name of a race of beings from my old world. It�fs not exactly what she is, but
she�fs closer to them than anything else we�fve seen here.}

Archon, eh? Sounds fancy. Well, it kind of fits, I guess. She certainly looked fancy under the sunlight. All sparkly
and glowy.

�gRight. Archon. Got it. Honestly though, Red, I was actually pleasantly surprised when I saw her. I had prepared
myself for a lot worse.�h (Kelly)

�gWhat do you mean?�h (Kira)

�gShe�fs got a head, a face, two arms and two legs. She laughs, eats and sleeps like any other baby should.
Considering the absurd things she had to go through just to be born, I think she got off easy.�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Kira)

�gWhat�fs with that shocked expression?!�h (Kelly)

�gWell�c I just�c I was convinced you�fd be more weirded out�c�h (Kira)

�gRed, you know you�fre the one that�fs actually been acting weird, right?�h (Kelly)

Well, weirder than normal.

�gI am?�h (Kira)

�gYeah. If I didn�ft know any better, I�fd say you were minding the fact that I�fm not minding your absurdities
for once.�h (Kelly)

�gAck! You! You may have a point...�h (Kira)

�gYou just wanted to share a laugh at my expense, didn�ft you?!�h (Kelly)

�gYou�fre right. It was my bad. I apologize.�h (Kira)

�gHuhuhu. That�fs alright. I won�ft always be that gullible dwarf that loses out to your absurdity!�h (Kelly)

�gMy, how reliable! I guess you won�ft need those kegs of Werewolf Ale we prepared just to console you with,
huh?�h (Kira)

�gNow hold on! Let�fs not get crazy! I never said something like that!�h (Kelly)
Chapter 133 - There's a limit to learning through doing - Binary Soul |
Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

The city of Runetap. The largest �einn town�f in the Kingdom of Ferseit. It�fs located on the crossroads of two
major highways, attracting all sorts of merchants, travelers and adventurers. Its streets bustled with activity and life
every single day as carts, wagons and people all passed by each other. However, this sprawling hotbed of traffic was
not famous for exotic goods or special deals. Granted, such things did happen, but they paled in comparison before
Runetap�fs overwhelming infamy as the �ethe city where anything can happen.�f

Like when a High Dragon was spotted overhead and then �emysteriously�f disappeared along with a large portion
of the city�fs eastern quarter.

Or that time when a 12 meter long snake had infested the city�fs sewers, only to choke to death on hundreds of rats
that had all �emysteriously�f jumped down its throat all at once.

Then there was the incident where the legendary six-legged Arachno-Hog managed to subdue a rogue necromancer
by eating all 200 of his zombie ghosts.

Or how about the fact that �ezombie ghosts�f somehow turned out to be a real thing that not only existed, but
were also somehow edible?

Let�fs not even mention the first ever Archon being born from the love between two women.

And those aren�ft some tales of old or legends spoken about in hushed whispers. All of those things happened in
just the last twelve (and a half) months. That last one, for example, took place less than three weeks ago. Bizarre and
absurd incidents like these occurred regularly around this place, and those were just the highlights.

Runetap was, for better or for worse, a noisy place that attracted trouble. And the trouble that would visit it today
would score seven out of ten on the absurdity scale. That�fs pretty impressive considering the giant headless
insects that invaded the city from somewhere to the north were rated as a four. Then again, that event happened
about twice a year on average, so the people were pretty used to it.

The trouble in question was in the shape of a woman. A woman that, right now, was standing confidently outside the
southern gate, sizing up everyone and anyone that passed by her. She was clearly looking down on them, both
figuratively and literally. After all, she stood at a height of over two meters, easily towering over most people. She
was something this city had only seen twice before, but that was so long ago that there was nobody alive who still
remembered the event.

The woman was of a species not native to this continent - a salamander. Her torso appeared to be completely human,
with pale skin and significantly larger than average breasts. Her four-fingered hands were tipped with sharp claws
and covered in bright-red scales that went up to her elbows. Her feet similarly had four clawed toes, with matching
red scales that went up past her knees. On the whole, her forearms and lower legs were two sizes thicker than one
would expect, giving off the illusion that she was wearing extremely thick gloves and boots even if she was
completely naked.

What set her apart the most was a long lizard-like tail swayed lazily behind her. The scaly appendage blazed with a
perpetual bright yellow flame. Although relatively hot, the flames were not powerful enough to burn skin and could
only make a person sweat at the most.

Her head, much like her torso, looked almost completely human in appearance. In fact, she could even be called a
beauty if her face wasn�ft constantly twisted in a pissed-off-looking expression. She had bright yellow eyes and a
splatter of red scales around her nose and cheekbones, giving off the impression of freckles. Long fiery-red hair was
tied in a loose ponytail which hanged down her back.

It was truly an appearance that even the people of Runetap would find odd. However, the main reason she would be
turning heads would be her attire. She had black panties covering her lower half and a matching black leather bra-
like �earmor�f keeping her sizable cleavage in check.

That was it.

Technically she also had orange metal bracers and shin guards covering the scaly parts of her limbs, but nobody
really paid any attention to those. It was a risque outfit that left very little to the imagination. It would be very hard
to call it anything other than underwear. And she was wearing such clothing outside. In public. During winter. While
snow fell on her head and shoulders.

At the very least, she didn�ft seem to be cold. The snow melted and evaporated the instant it made contact with her
hot skin. The white powder piled up on the ground would melt away whenever she stepped in it. Just standing next
to her seemed to give off a pleasant heat that warmed one�fs body.

Now if only someone could do something about that shameless attire. Indeed, the words �eincorrigible pervert�f
seemed to flow almost instantly to mind whenever someone looked at her.

Having had enough of glaring aggressively at random people for no good reason - a condition commonly referred to
as �estink-eye�f - she made her way towards the guards at the southern gate. Although there was technically a
line, people voluntarily got out of her way when they noticed her expression. Just her intense glare seemed to
whisper �eWanna die?�f to them. Thus, she made it to the front of the line in very little time.

The guard saw this, but he didn�ft care. What happened here was still technically outside the city, so it wasn�ft
his job to meddle in such petty affairs like cutting in line. Besides, those people got out of her way on their own, so
there really was no reason to do anything. Thus, he simply carried out his job.

�gHello and welcome to Runetap. Identification, please.�h (Guard)

The salamander reached into her cleavage and pulled out a small white rectangle that had a green sheen to it. She
silently handed it to the guard, who seemed entirely unimpressed at her icy stare and aggressive behavior. He took
the slightly warm adventurer�fs card from her scaly hand. It turned blood red almost instantly.

A legitimate adventurer�fs card would only remain white in the hands of its rightful owner. That slightly creepy
shift in color was sufficient evidence that the person in front of the guard was also the one whose name was on the
document.

--------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Yuri Teleila
Titles: Berserker
Team:
Position: Vanguard
Rank: D
Status: Suspended until 20/05/1438
--------------------------------------------------------------

The gate guard felt a small headache coming. [Berserker] was a title given to people who had trouble differentiating
friend from foe on the battlefield. Rather than a badge of honor like most titles, this one was a mark of shame. That
sort of behavior was probably the reason why she was suspended and wouldn�ft be able to accept commissions for
the next month and a half.

He turned around and walked into a small shed-like structure. He checked a list on the wall, then recorded her name
along with the date and the time of her arrival in a ledger. After less than a minute he walked back to the female
salamander.
�gThank you. Enjoy your stay in Runetap.�h (Guard)

She took the document from his outstretched hand and immediately stuffed it back in her cleavage. She walked off
into the city without saying a single word and throwing everyone she came across a vicious sneer like she was
looking at garbage. The level of stink-eye on this one was truly impressive.

The guard? He didn�ft care. So what if that person was an obvious troublemaker? She wasn�ft on the
�eWanted�f list and had proper ID. That�fs all that mattered. His colleagues inside the walls would surely handle
her when she inevitably caused an incident. Quickly putting the odd fire-lizard-lady out of his mind, he turned his
attention to the next person in line.

�gHello and welcome to Runetap. Identification, please.�h (Guard)

> Yuri PoV <

Everyone in line was so nice! They politely let me pass simply because I was a lady! Ah, but that guard kept
frowning whenever he looked at me. Well, I�fm rather ugly so I�fm always getting stares like that�c

Ah! I completely forgot to ask for directions! I was just too nervous to even speak up!

It�fs okay Yuri. Calm down. You can do this. Look, there�fs a perfectly reasonable human just standing there,
right? Let�fs kindly ask for directions.

I put on my best smile and lean in a bit so our eye levels match. A smile and eye contact are both important
communication tools, after all!

�gHey there. Mind keeping me company for a bit?�h (Yuri)

�gUgeh! No, I�fm good! I have to go!�h (Man)

Ah�c he ran off. Must have really been in a hurry. Alright, let�fs try someone else! Oh, that fuzzy-looking guy
should do! Wolf ears, claws, wide chest, covered in gray fur, bushy tail, canine snout - yep, that�fs a werewolf!
Just like the information I had said! I wonder why the advisory said to steer clear of them though, he looks perfectly
friendly! I�fm sure he�fs actually a really nice guy!

Also, he�fs sitting down on the ground and leaning lazily against the wall, so he clearly has nowhere to be. He�fs
perfect! I walk over to him and put on my extra-wide smile.

�gYo. I need to have a word with you.�h (Yuri)

�gHaah? You got something to say to me, scaleface?!�h (Werewolf)

He looks up at me with a hard to read face. As expected, I can�ft tell what sort of expression that muzzle is
supposed to be making. Well, he�fs showing me his clenched teeth so he�fs probably smiling too. I knew he was
going to be nice!

�gYeah, that�fs right. I want me and you to have a little... chat.�h (Yuri)

Ah, I almost fumbled my words! I guess I�fm still a bit nervous.

�gHah. Is that so!? Alrighty then!�h (Gray Werewolf)

He climbs to his feet. He certainly seems agreeable enough. I got lucky, didn�ft I?!

�gAnd here�fs my *hic* my opening statement!�h (Gray Werewolf)

*Swish*
Waaah! Why�fd he slash at me with his claws?! Why do I have to suddenly be dodging attacks?! What�fs going
on!?

*Swish*

Uwah, another one! I need to tell him to stop this! Violence is bad!

*Swish*

I know, let�fs call him something cute to lessen the tension! Maybe compliment his technique while I�fm at it? It
could use some work, but he�fs not bad!

�gNice try, furball!�h (Yuri)

�gStop moving around you nosey cunt!�h (Gray Werewolf)

*Swish Swish Swish Swish*

Noo! Why are you attacking me even more now?!

*Swish*

*Slash*

Ack! My arm! That hurt!

*WHAM*

�gGYAAAA!�h (Gray Werewolf)

Hmm? Oh no! I turned around too fast and hit him with my tail by accident! I hope he�fs not too hurt! He�fs
down on the ground�c he�fs not moving, but definitely breathing! Seems he�fs just out cold, thank goodness!

That was close. I honestly didn�ft mean to do that! He just startled me is all. The scratch he gave me is already
closing up so that tail strike really was uncalled for.

�gHuh? Joe? Hey Joe! Hang in there, man!�h (Black Werewolf)

Oh good! One of his friends is here! He crouched down on the ground to check on his friend, how reliable!
There�fs two others with him, looks like they�fll take good care of their buddy, so I don�ft have to worry about
him.

�gYou! You did this, didn�ft you!�h (Black Werewolf)

Right, I need to admit it was an accident and apologize. It�fs the right thing to do.

�gYeah! It was me! I-�h (Yuri)

�gYou bitch!�h (Black Werewolf)

*Swish*

Waah! Not again!

***

�gYeah! I know where it is! I�fll show you the way, boss!�h (Joe)
Joe really is a nice guy after all! I had to lightly slap his friends when they got frisky, but then they all woke up soon
after and offered to guide me around when I asked nicely. It seems we simply got off on the wrong foot. I�fm so
glad!

�gRight this way, boss!�h (Joe)

I follow the gray-haired werewolf down the road. I keep looking around, there really are a lot of people, huh? I keep
smiling at random pedestrians as we pass by them, but they just avert their gaze from my face. I mean, I already
know I�fm not that pleasant to look at, but it still hurts a little when they avoid looking at my face like their lives
depended on it...

�gHere, this is the place.�h (Joe)

After about ten minutes, Joe stops me at some iron gates. There�fs a huge four-story building with a bunch of
people going in and out of it! It�fs almost like a mansion! Is he sure about this? No, the sign �eRunetap General
Academy�f is clearly visible above the gate, so this is definitely the place!

�gGood job. Stick around, I�fll need you later.�h (Yuri)

I still don�ft know where to find a good inn, after all. I hope he doesn�ft mind guiding me around a bit after I sign
up.

�gGotcha boss. Me and the boys will lay low in the nearby alley, just yell for us and we�fll come out in a flash!
�h (Joe)

My, how reliable! I give him a smile and wave goodbye to him. Huh? Why did he leap back with a small yelp?
Maybe he stepped in something weird? Oh well, no point thinking about it. I have to go check the place out!

I pass through the open gate and walk up to the building. I was told this place was perfect for newbie adventurers
like myself who struggle with the job. I mean, I even joined a team and everything, but those guys were acting a bit
strange around me and eventually kicked me out. Probably couldn�ft stand to look at my face�c

I�fm still grateful to them for looking after me for that short while. Even if they hated looking at me, they still let
me tag along with them and hunt monsters. I even rose to Rank D thanks to those guys! I really don�ft understand
why I got suspended for two months though. All I did was high-five them after a successful hunt, was that a bad
thing to do? I have no idea, the culture around here is too weird.

Still, if the Guild decided it was necessary then there was probably a good reason. I�fm sure they don�ft bully
foreigners just for being different�c At least, I hope that�fs not the case...

Hmm? What�fs with all the people? They�fre crowding around a large bulletin board and buzzing about
something. I see, those must be course listings I was told about! I want to check them out, but there really is quite
the crowd gathered. This is troubling, I don�ft know when the office closes so I don�ft want to waste time�c I
wonder if they�fll let me through if I ask them?

�gOut of the way!�h (Yuri)

Oh! They immediately made room for me! As expected, a pleasant smile and a few kind words are the best! They
even give me plenty of space so as not to disturb me. People really are much more polite in this city than the town I
was staying in before!

I get closer to the board and take a good look at the first listing.

Course: Intermediate Alchemy (ALC-2)

Duration: 10 weeks
Instructor(s): Picorio Pepepepepe
 Restrictions: Must have passed ALC-1
Classes: Intermediate Mixology, Essence Extraction, Essence Injection, Toxin Neutralization, Basic Transmutation
Notes: Students must bring own Alchemy set, including cauldron. Necessary ingredients and materials will be
provided by the RGA.

Oh, they teach Alchemy here?! That�fs interesting! I always wondered how potions were made! Ah, but this
isn�ft why I�fm here!

Course: Basic Engineering (ENG-1)

Duration: 6 weeks
Instructor(s): Mellom Rimmel
Restrictions: Non-mages only
Classes: Basic Assembly, Basic Smithing, Basic Tinkering, Mana Manipulation
Notes: Necessary ingredients and materials will be provided by the RGA.

Hmm, seems this place can teach everyone about Mana Manipulation. I always found it weird how only mages
could do that sort of thing over here. Everyone could do it properly back home, though.

Course: Formless Flowing Sword Training (FFS)

Duration: Ongoing
Instructor(s): Roel Denka
Restrictions: All applicants must be personally approved by the instructor
Classes: N/A - Individual practice
Notes: The RGA will not be held accountable for any injuries sustained while attending this class.

Hmm? This one�fs a bit weird. It�fs different from all the rest. I don�ft use a sword anyway so it has nothing to
do with me.

Course: Intermediate Bard Training (BAR-2)

Duration: 8 weeks
Instructor(s): Leonora Lelander, Leon Lelander
Restrictions: Must have passed BAR-1 or be personally approved by instructor
Classes: Intermediate Storytelling, Intermediate Strumming, Intermediate Tone-Reading
Notes: Students must bring own instruments.

That�c No, Yuri! You can�ft indulge in your secret dream of being a bard! You have more important things to do!
Come on, where�fs that- There it is!

Course: Basic Adventurer Training (ADV-1)

Duration: 3 weeks
Instructor(s): Ellie mil Quasse, Ariel Noco
Restrictions: Adventurer Card required
Classes: Basic Monster Hunting, Basic Survival, Basic Teamwork, Critical Thinking
Notes: The RGA will not be held accountable for any injuries - physical or otherwise. Healing will be provided free
of charge.

SERIOUS APPLICANTS ONLY!!! IF YOU WASTE MY TIME JUST FOR AN AUTOGRAPH I WILL
SNAP BOTH ALL OF YOUR ARMS IN HALF!!!

That�fs the one! It�fs the class taught by two members of the top-ranked adventurer team [Black Flame]! I�fd
only heard of them, but you don�ft get to be the best at something by just bragging about it!

I wonder why that last bit is scribbled on like that? Well, I�fm taking my adventurer job seriously, so I should be
alright. I�fm just not very good at it. The fighting is a bit scary, but it�fs easy. I just seem to mess up on all the
other parts of the job. Well, that kind old Guild Branch Manager practically begged me to come here and sign up for
this class, so I have high hopes!

Right, let�fs see. It starts at dawn tomorrow and signs up are on site. Lucky!

Now, I just need to have Joe show me a good place to rest for the night. Maybe I should practice my smiling some
more while I wait? It still feels a bit stiff�c Hmm? Where did all the people go? This place was crowded until just a
little while ago. Did they have classes to attend? Or is there some special event? Must be something like that. But
was there any reason to clear out so silently? How bizarre.

Oh well! It�fs my loss if I mind it!

Chapter 134 - Everyone has layers. Just like ogres. Or was that onions?
Does everyone have onions? - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Yuri PoV <

Ellie looks down at us from the treetops as we run past.

�gYou people make me sick. You want to call yourself adventurers?! I�fve seen worms that were tougher than
you! Why did you even come here if you�fre just going to bitch and moan at me?! Huh?!�h (Ellie)

Does she HAVE to keep spouting that abuse, though?! What part of this is �einstruction�f exactly?!

�gHaah, haah, haah!�h (Yuri)

And just how much longer are we going to keep running?! We�fve been going around in circles for 4 hours
already! I really want to take a break! Maybe if I slowed my pace a little-

*Fwit*

Ack! What was that?! Something black just whizzed past my eyes!

�gI didn�ft say you could rest, maggot!�h (Ellie)

Nevermind! I can keep running!

�gYes ma�fam!�h (Yuri)

That Ellie is scary! Seriously scary! It�fs only been three days, but I already want to go home! Over a quarter of the
people who showed up that day gave up on the first day! Even more left on the second! Now there�fs only 20 of us
left! Out of more than a hundred! But I can�ft give up just yet! If it�fs just moving my body around I�fll do it for
as long as she tells me!

�gGrom! You�fre slacking off! What sort of legionnaire are you! Your ancestors are laughing at your pitiful
efforts!�h (Ellie)

�gEvil. Fuuu. Bloody. Fuuu. Cunt. Fuuu.�h (Grom)

�gWhat was that, maggot?! You saying you can run without arms!? Because that�fs all I�fm hearing when you
mumble like that!�h (Ellie)

�gNo ma�fam! Fuuu. Fuuu. No such thing!�h (Grom)

�gThat�fs what I thought, retard!�h (Ellie)

At least it�fs not just me she�fs picking on! But if even a former soldier like Grom can�ft satisfy her, what hope
do the rest of us have?! Ah, I guess being a dwarf makes it hard to run around on this course. It�fs a miracle he can
make it past the part of the track that�fs filled with cold muddy water. It�fs so deep it probably goes all the way
up to his chest!

�gOh! It looks like we have a lazy worm. Congratulations Russ! Everyone gets to do another lap because of you!
�h (Ellie)

Russ collapsed again!? Well of course he did! There�fs no way that black haired boy can keep up with this! He�fs
barely fifteen years old! Granted, I�fm only eighteen myself, but he�fs way too frail to be running as much as the
rest of us! It�fs a miracle he stuck with this exhausting training regime for so long!
�gHaah, haah, haah!�h (Yuri)

More laps! Damn it! I can still do it! If I give up over something this mundane then I�fll really be nothing but a
failure! I just wish we weren�ft running around in the middle of the forest! The misshapen terrain and the trees in
the way make this overgrown course feel like it�fs twice as long as it actually is!

�gI�fve seen porridge with more determination than you sorry sacks of piss!�h (Ellie)

And of course Ellie�fs keeping a close eye on all of us! If someone tries to slack off, she makes the rest of us run
even more! If someone refuses to run she breaks their legs! And then her bird friend heals them! And then Ellie
breaks them again unless the poor soul starts running right away! She already did that like six times! I don�ft dare
defy her! I like my legs!

�gHaah, haah, haah, haah!�h (Yuri)

This is torture, isn�ft it?! This is actual torture! What�fs any of this running got to do with adventuring!?

Ah, I�fm running past where Russ has collapsed. Poor guy, his black hair and handsome face are both covered in
mud. Mages aren�ft meant for this sort of exertion, right?! Alright, let�fs give him a hand! I scoop him up with
one arm as I run past him. I throw him across my shoulders in a fireman�fs carry without stopping!

�gHuh? Wha? Yuri?�h (Russ)

I glance to the side to check on him. He can barely breathe and his face is ghostly pale, but at least he seems to be
awake now.

�gHaah, haah! Rest up! Haah, haah!�h (Yuri)

�gTh-thanks. Sorry for the trouble.�h (Russ)

�gWhat�fs this? Picking up garbage you find laying around the ground Yuri!? Should you really be doing that?
�h (Ellie)

I don�ft care! Russ is part of my team! Along with Grom! I�fll carry both of them if I have to, but I�fm not
going to let them be bullied by that despicable woman! I just know she�fs going to use his inability to stand up as
an excuse to start her leg breaking cycle!

He�fs not that heavy anyway. He should know this sort of thing is no trouble for me by now, but he still worries.
Such a nice boy! He�fs actually a bit cute when he�fs being all needlessly concerned like that!

�gSeems to me like Yuri isn�ft focusing on her training! Congratulations! One more lap for everyone!�h (Ellie)

Ack! Damn it all!

�gBossy bitch�c Just because she�fs Rank A-�h (Russ)

�gShut it!�h (Yuri)

�gEep!�h (Russ)

I seriously don�ft want her to give me any more laps!

�gWho said you could sneak a potion onto my obstacle course, baldie?! I�fll be lenient though, I won�ft give out
any more laps today! Be grateful, vermin!�h (Ellie)

Alright! That was clo-

�gInstead you all get to do twenty extra push-ups before bed! Doesn�ft that sound like fun?!�h (Ellie)

OH COME ON!

***

I stoke the campfire to make sure it doesn�ft go out. My tail flame isn�ft bright enough to chase away this
darkness. Well, at least not when I�fm calm like this. I really want to sleep, but it�fs my turn to keep watch at
night so I can�ft afford something selfish like that! I just wish we had more people, having only three of us on
rotation is really cutting into our sleep time! I�fve been so tired lately that I can�ft even smile!

I shift my body around slightly, trying to get comfortable. It�fs useless though - it aches all over! This entire week
has been nothing but one painful memory after the next. I was naive. I thought it couldn�ft get must worse than the
endless running. Then came the rock climbing, the hole digging, the log hauling. Not to mention she always finds a
reason to give me more push-ups!

Honestly, it wouldn�ft be so bad if I could actually rest properly, but she�fs making us live out here in the woods!
This monster-infested forest south of Runetap is way more inhospitable than I expected! Water we can somehow
manage with Russ�fs magic, but food and shelter are serious concerns! Foraging and hunting on top of the
merciless training and keeping watch at night - there�fs barely enough time to sleep!

I should�fve known something like this would happen when the meeting spot on the listing was outside the city
walls! I think only Grom actually came prepared with a tent and some emergency rations in his luggage. Which is
good, because out of the three of us only I have the fortitude to sleep outside in this cold air.

At first I thought this whole �eroughing it�f thing was part of the �eBasic Survival�f class that was on the
course listing. But now I know better. The real thing we need to survive through is our instructor!

Ellie made us participate in one on one �esparring sessions�f with her! Isn�ft that just an excuse to beat on us?!
It was obvious that none of us here are good enough to land a finger on a Rank A like her! Not even my serious
attacks could so much as put a scratch on her, while her bare hands left bruises all over my arms and legs!

I wonder why she only aims for the scaled bits, though?! Does she really hate them that much? Is it just bullying?!
She hasn�ft punched me in the face yet, but she did throw me to the ground and stomp on my tail! Her boot seemed
to penetrate through the thick scales, muscles and leather and right down to the bone! She actually managed to break
a salamander�fs tail bones! Aaargh! That was a special kind of pain I don�ft ever want to experience again!

Huh? What�fs that scent on the wind?

*Sniff Sniff*

Oh great. Trolls by the smell of it. And just like before they�fll probably head right for us! This is the third night
raid we�fve had in a row! Somehow they always seem to come whenever I�fm on watch, too! Well, let�fs
consider it lucky that my nose can sniff them out well in advance! I stand up, take a deep breath and scream at the
top of my lungs!

�gWake up! Trolls!�h (Yuri)

I hear rustling immediately within the tent nearby. Grom crawls out of it in his full steel plate armor. Lately he�fs
taken to sleeping in that. I can�ft imagine it�fs very comfortable though. He must be even more tired than I am,
but at least his eyes are attentive!

�gHow many?�h (Grom)

*Sniff Sniff Sniff*

�gA lot. Over twenty.�h (Yuri)

This is bad. We managed to fight them off before, but they only attacked us with six at most. But this is too many! If
they surround us, they�fll easily overwhelm us!

�gI�fm up! Where do you want me!�h (Russ)

Russ has also climbed out of the tent. He seems to be keeping it together since I�fve been able to shoulder some of
his burden lately. He�fs definitely the most frail of the three of us, though, so I have to look after him.

�gYou two should stay here and guard the camp, it�fs all you�fre good for! I�fll go wipe those bastards out!
And don�ft come anywhere near me or you�fll regret it!�h (Yuri)

�gYou sure?�h (Grom)

�gShe�fll be fine, dude! If it�fs that fire-butt then she can probably level half this damn forest!�h (Russ)

�gAlright. We�fll hold the fort! Err, tent!�h (Grom)

*Sniff Sniff*

I head in the direction the troll stench is coming from. There�fs a few of them splitting off from the main group.
Those two will have to fend for themselves though. I really don�ft want them to get caught up in my Red Flame.

Speaking of which, this should be far enough away. Time to work myself up.

�gHrn. Grrr. Raaaarr!�h (Yuri)

I slowly unbottle my pent up rage and frustration. The flame on my tail grows larger and hotter, turning from yellow
to red. It bathes the snowy surroundings in a red light as it burns brighter and brighter. I see the bushes in front of
me rustle and a troll leaps out of them. Good!

*SLASH*

One swipe of my claws and his front is covered in three deep wounds! It backs off, but doesn�ft even fall down!
There�fs another three of them coming from behind that one! And even more behind them!

Good! Not only are they tough, but there�fs so many of them!

�gCome right this way! Yuri has a lot of stress to let out!�h (Yuri)

*SLASH*

That witch! How dare she force all this unwarranted abuse on me!? I really wanted to rip her arms off yesterday!

*SLASH*

Does she know how much I had to suffer just to get away from that place!? To come here?!

*SLICE*

What the fuck�fs her problem with me?! Just because she�fs some blasted Rank A she thinks she�fs better than
me?!

*SMASH*

She�fs just like that bastard back home! I�fll show her! And those other assholes too! Fucking cunts the lot of
them!
*CRACK SNAP SPLAT*

And now these retarded trolls think they can interrupt what little sleep I can get away with?! Who the fuck do they
think they are!? Worthless piles of stinking shit!

�gRRRAAAARGH!�h (Yuri)

***

�gGot something to say to me now!? Huuuh?!�h (Yuri)

I stomp on the troll�fs head with my heel, splattering its contents against a rock sticking out of the ground!

�gWhat? You�fre done already?! Come on, I haven�ft had enough!�h (Yuri)

I kick it a few times in frustration! Blood squirts out of its open wounds, but it�fs not getting up!

�gWorthless pile of garbage! Why did you die before I was done killing you?!�h (Yuri)

�g... Yuri?�h (Grom)

�gWhat!? You want a piece of this too, short stuff?! You and! And�c and�c Russ? Russ?! Is he okay?!�h (Yuri)

What is Grom doing here?! Why is Russ staring at me from on his shoulder!? And why do I feel something wet and
sticky on my face?

�gFine. Just exhausted. Uh, you got a little something there...�h (Russ)

Ack! It�fs not just my face! My everything is covered in troll filth! Ugh, now I�fll smell like monster blood for
days! I need to-

�gWoah!�h (Yuri)

�gOy lass?! You okay?!�h (Grom)

I tried to take a step, but ended up losing my balance and falling to one knee. I must be more tired than I thought.

�gNone of your business, moron!�h (Yuri)

He should worry about himself first! He�fs completely covered in blood! Ah, I guess it�fs not his blood though.

�gShe�fs clearly fine Grom, hehehe- Ow! Hurts to laugh!�h (Russ)

�gBut seriously, what happened here?!�h (Grom)

�gWhat are you- Oh.�h (Russ)

Huh? Ack! Now that I take a good look around, there�fs bits of meat and guts all over the place! In the bushes, up
the trees, buried halfway into the ground and- Oh wow, I even felled a couple of trees too! I really went overboard
this time!

It�fs all because Ellie kept pushing my buttons! When I let the Red Flame take over it went completely berserk!

�gWe got worried after mopping up on our end and followed the red glow in the distance, but what�fs all this?!
�h (Grom)

�gDid Yuri�c do all this?!�h (Russ)

They probably hate me now. As expected. Nobody wants to stick around a loose cannon like me, after all. Even the
people back home avoided me. It�fs not my fault my Red Flame is a bit more intense than usual, okay?! But I still
let it take over, so I only have myself to blame.

Just like the last time I let my rage break. I took things too far and seriously injured my former teammates before I
could stop. Even if I try to pass it off as a failed high-five, I�fm just deluding myself. Guess it�fs just my lot in
life to be alone, huh?

�gYou�fre seriously amazing, you know that?�h (Russ)

�g... What?�h (Yuri)

�gI agree with you, lad! This is bloody marvelous! She must�fve wiped out at least thirty of the buggers!�h
(Grom)

They�c don�ft mind?

�gAre you two right in the head?�h (Yuri)

The two of them stop looking around with awed expressions and stare me dead in the eyes.

�gNope.�h (Russ)

�gNot in the slightest.�h (Grom)

�gHah. Hahaha! Ow!�h (Yuri)

I see, we were all nutjobs. Guess it takes one to know one, huh?

�gI know, right?�h (Russ)

�gCome on, let�fs try to get some sl-�h (Grom)

*STOMP*

�c.

*STOMP*

�gSomething�fs coming!�h (Grom)

I just can�ft catch a break, can I?

�gSounds big.�h (Russ)

�gThe smell of blood probably attracted it. What do we do?�h (Grom)

Why are you looking at me?! Russ is out of commission and-

*STOMP*

-that thing is seriously coming closer! How far is it though?

*Sniff*

Blech! The stench of troll around here is too overpowering! I can�ft pick up its scent at all!

�gIt�fs alright, we�fll get through this, right Yuri?�h (Russ)

�gDamn right!�h (Yuri)

*STOMP STOMP STOMP*

Those heavy footsteps are getting closer! I can hear sounds of trees being pushed aside and being uprooted!

�gGURURURU!�h (Cyclops)

A loud deep gurgle echoed from the distance.

�gAh crap! It�fs a cyclops!�h (Grom)

�gA what?�h (Yuri)

�gA giant Rank B monster! We can�ft fight it! We need to retreat!�h (Grom)

Rank B? If it�fs something of that level, then maybe...

�gBut if we abandon the camp-�h (Russ)

�gScrew it lad! Your life�fs way more important than some training!�h (Grom)

That�fs right. If we lose our camp, we get kicked out of the course. And if that happens, we miss out on a
recommendation from the top adventurer team in the country! I mean we can always apply again, so Grom makes a
valid point.

However, I still have something up my sleeve!

�gI got this!�h (Yuri)

I get back to my feet while reassuring them with a forced smile.

�gYou�fre sure?�h (Grom)

�gYou questioning me?!�h (Yuri)

�gCome on Grom! Let�fs give the scary fire lizard some room.�h (Russ)

�g... Promise me you�fll run if you can�ft stop it!�h (Grom)

�gYou�fre not the boss of me!�h (Yuri)

Honestly, you don�ft need to tell me something that obvious!

�gGood enough!�h (Grom)

Grom starts backing off while still carrying Russ on his back.

*STOMP*

I face towards the direction the sounds are coming in and widen my stance. I hold my right arm out with my palm
open, facing away from me. I put my left hand on my right bracer and start flowing my mana into it.

*STOMP*

I have to use every last drop I have. It�fs not much, but it should be just enough!

�g----------�h (Yuri)
One�c two�c three�c four�c five! All five pairs of runes on the left bracer are lit up. Their counterparts on the
right one are also glowing with a pale blue light. Since all ten of them are active, it means the spell is properly
charged!

�gGURAAA!�h (Cyclops)

A gigantic, fat shadow bursts through the treeline! I focus everything I have onto its chest and chant the spell!

�g[High Burst]�h (Yuri)

The cyclops�fs upper body is instantly enveloped by a fiery explosion!

*KRAKHROOOOOOOOOOoooommmmm*

My bones rattle and the ground shakes from the resulting shockwave! The nearby trees catch fire, illuminating the
entire area! A few breaths later, the smoke clears up. I can faintly make out the outline of the cyclops. Or at least
what�fs left of it.

The head neck and the middle of its chest are completely gone. Only the shoulders and its sides remain of its upper
body. The giant mass of its remaining flesh then falls over backwards like a fat tree. It lands with a loud thud,
throwing a cloud of snow and ash up into the air.

�gFuuuu.�h (Yuri)

I�fm spent. I relax my stance and let my arms go limp. The recoil from using these bracers really hurts, but I grit
my teeth and bear it. I turn around smiling triumphantly towards the others. Huh? What�fs wrong with them?
They�fre completely pale! Was the shockwave a bit too much?

�gSomething you wanna say?�h (Yuri)

They shake their heads so hard you�fd think they�fd fall off. Maybe it�fs their first time seeing Explosion
Magic? Well, I�fm sure if it was something important they�fd tell me. They�fre a pretty reliable bunch!

Maybe now I can finally get some sleep!

Chapter 135 - Sometimes it is necessary to hurt others for their own good
- Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Yuri PoV <

We�fre gathered for morning assembly next to the obstacle course. I look over those of us that are left. Nine people
in total, divided into three teams. Almost everyone has dead fish-like eyes. Mine are probably the same. The only
one who seems to be doing fine is, oddly enough, that female elf with the bow. I thought elves were supposed to be
frail, so how come she seems so damn energetic?!

�gWell done for making it this far!�h (Ellie)

Ellie suddenly appeared in front of us. Of course I didn�ft see her arrive - I never do. I gave up on getting startled
by that after the sixth time it happened, though.

�gAs you maggots should well know, you�fll be under my care for one more week. Congratulations on making it
this far!�h (Ellie)

Oh great. I wonder what it�fs going to be this time. Dig up a well with just our feet? Build a castle using only a
toothpick? Crush a rock by staring at it? Cut trees down with our nails? Lick our eyebrows? All of the above at
once?!

�gSoon you will graduate from being maggots and be worthy of being called cockroaches!�h (Ellie)

�gHow is that any better?!�h (Marv)

Marv, the bald-headed axe wielder, speaks up. He hates being called an insect the most out of everyone here. It�fs
also that sort of attitude that gets him in trouble all the time.

*Fwit THUD*

�gGYAAAA!�h (Marv)

Yep, she threw a knife at him and hit him in the shoulder. As expected. This is his fourth stab wound already. Marv
really should have learned his lesson at this point�c

�gDo not underestimate the cockroach�fs ability to survive, maggot! Even if the world ends, those little bastards
will be the last to go! Actually, it�fs highly likely they�fll survive even that much! Unlike yourself, if you dare to
interrupt me again!�h (Ellie)

�gAARGH!�h (Marv)

�gOh suck it up, you big crybaby. Be quiet unless you want me to call Ariel over!�h (Ellie)

Wow, he shut up instantly! He�fs gritting his teeth and breathing roughly, but not making a peep! Well, I can�ft
blame him. Things get�c weird�c whenever that bird lady shows up. That strange glazed look she gives me
whenever she heals my injuries is way too creepy! Pain I can live with, but that woman is bound to give me
nightmares!

I see someone raise their hand in the corner of my eye.

�gYes, what it is, Russ?�h (Ellie)

�gSo does that mean we�fve graduated from that obstacle course, ma�fam?!�h (Russ)
�gYou don�ft �egraduate�f from basic training, maggot! The fact that you still think of it as something different
from everyday life means you�fre already a failure as an adventurer!�h (Ellie)

�gOh�c�h (Russ)

I think a small part of him just died. On the inside that is. Ellie starts looking over the rest of us with sharp eyes, like
we�fre livestock and she�fs sizing up which one of us will be slaughtered first. I can just barely make out the
outline of what is undoubtedly an evil grin underneath that black mask she always wears!

�gYou all came here to become proper adventurers. However, some of you still fail to realize what it is adventurers
have to deal with. Therefore, in addition to your daily training, I will now also be working on fixing all of your
faults.�h (Ellie)

Really?! NOW we get to the actual instruction?! Isn�ft that completely backwards?!

�gFirst of all. Marv! You�fre way too prideful! I�fd hoped my gentle guidance would have taught you some
humility, but your stupidty truly is Rank A! So I�fll be taking fitting measures to beat it out of you!�h (Ellie)

Marv�fs face slowly turns a shade whites. I don�ft think that�fs due to blood loss. Not this time anyway.

�gSynthia! The bow is a good weapon to use on small fry, but it becomes useless when facing anything Rank B
and above.�h (Ellie)

So the female elf�fs name is Synthia? She barely ever speaks so I had no idea. And Ellie actually has a point, I
don�ft think arrows would do anything against a cyclops other than tickle it.

�gHowever, your eyes are good and your movements are light. No more monster subjugation for you. We�fre
going to focus entirely on scouting for the forseeable future.�h (Ellie)

�gBut scouts are- *Fwit* Uwah!�h (Synthia)

Wow, she just barely dodged it! Isn�ft that amazing?! I couldn�ft even see that projectile!

�gDon�ft you dare say scouts are worthless in a fight! If anything, they have the most important job of letting
their team know if they can win the fight before it even starts! So what if you lack killing power?! Learn how to
create openings for your team! Poison, fire, smoke and traps are all things you need to learn about! I�fll be
personally educating you on their use and creation, so be grateful!�h (Ellie)

Wow, she gets to receive personal attention from the best scout on the continent!

�gY-y-yes, ma�fam.�h (Synthia)

I hope she survives this! Fight, Synthia! You can do this, Synthia! I believe in you, Synthia!

�gLuke, I know you want to help people, but you need to be more suspicious of others. You accepted everything I
told you as fact without even questioning a single bit of it! What person in their right mind would believe eating
crushed grass would make them grow taller overnight?! An adventurer needs to be at least a little bit suspicious of
others, otherwise you�fll only be taken advantage of!�h (Ellie)

�g... Yes ma�fam.�h (Luke)

�gOh! You actually doubted my words for a second there! Good, we�fll work on that. Next, Grom! You rely too
much on your training. It makes you inflexible! You can�ft adapt to rapidly changing situations at all! You need to
let go of such preconceptions before you end up dead in a ditch! Got it?!�h (Ellie)

�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Grom)

Wait, since when did she see Grom fight?! We�fve only ever had combat at night when she�fs nowhere to be
seen!

Could it be she�fs actually stalking us?! No, she�fs definitely stalking us! All nine of us! No idea how or why, but
I�fm sure she�fs capable of it!

�gRuss. No complaints, keep up the good work.�h (Ellie)

�gWait, what?! But I was constantly falling behind! Grom and Yuri had to basically carry me through the obstacle
course every single day!�h (Russ)

�gSo? You pushed yourself as far as you could, did you not? And then, rather than being stubborn and reckless
about it, you gratefully accepted help when it was offered. You focused on doing the things you could do and relied
on others for the things you couldn�ft. I see no fault in that sort of behavior.�h (Ellie)

�gI�c I see. Thank you, ma�fam.�h (Russ)

�gOn second thought, there is one thing. You might want to work on being a little less shameless. Trying to feel up
Yuri�fs breasts while she�fs carrying you on her shoulders is bound to earn you a broken hand one of these days!
�h (Ellie)

�g...�h (Russ)

Huh? Really? That�fs what he was doing? Does he like these things that much?

�gSpeaking. Of. Which.�h (Ellie)

Eep.

�gYuri. Where do I even begin!?�h (Ellie)

What?! Does she really hate me that much?!

�gYou plow through everything without using your head! You don�ft listen to your teammates as much as you
should! You don�ft pay attention to your surroundings or your environment! You rely too much on your nose!
Honestly, I don�ft know what to even do with you! I�fll just have to instruct you directly over the next week.
Maybe even beyond that!�h (Ellie)

Okay, she definitely hates me.

> Kira PoV <

�gHere you go sweetie!�h (Kira)

I gently guide the spoonful of baby food in Aura�fs mouth. She gobbles it up while waving her little arms and legs
around. The way she flails around in her high chair is just too adorable!

�gUgh�c I still can�ft get used to that�c�h (Kelly)

�gWould you rather I breastfeed her instead?�h (Kira)

�gWhat, at the dinner table? Come on Red, be real!�h (Kelly)

�gI think I�fd prefer that, to be honest...�h (Lara)

�gLil sis is amazing! To be able to eat that glowing green goop!�h (Sophie)
Well yeah, when I seriously put my mana into the food it turns extra weird, but it can�ft be helped. Otherwise she
won�ft eat it!

�gMunyaa! Amm!�f (Aura)

�gAlright, alright, here�fs some more!�h (Kira)

I feed her another spoonful and she giggles with delight. I do hope we find out another way of feeding her as she
grows older. I don�ft want my daughter to grow too dependent on this stuff...

�gAlright. I�fve had enough. Thanks for the food, I�fm going to go check up on Stompy.�h (Kelly)

�gYour precious Stompy isn�ft going anywhere, Kelly. You know full well it can�ft just get up and leave.�h
(Kira)

�gYeah�c You really should let me take him out for a walk more often you know? Make sure everything�fs
working right and all that!�h (Kelly)

�gThirteen meter tall Titansteel golems do not need to go on walks, Kelly. It�fs a war machine, not a puppy.�h
(Kira)

I feed Aura some more mana-enriched puree while refuting Kelly�fs claims. I know that meat-head is excited about
the thing she put together with Nano, but she needs to be more reasonable. That four-legged walking calamity
should stay put until it�fs needed!

�gBesides, you�fd wreck everything in sight. You already gouged out a 40 kilometer stretch of forest when you
went out to catch a cyclops for Ellie.�h (Kira)

Also, supplying that thing enough mana to move around is a full time job, even for me! I already have to split my
reserves between cooking for Aura, keeping the tower afloat, magic practice and charging Mana Stones for the
Ministry�fs research. My mana pool isn�ft limitless you know!

�gI know but�c it feels like such a shame. We put so much effort and resources into that and now it�fs just
gathering dust in the basement...�h (Kelly)

�gAlright, alright. Tell you what. Nano, you needed some help with establishing that railroad to Ecebis right?�h
(Kira)

Something about making a straight line through hills, cliffs and mountains.

{Indeed. I was just going to hire a bunch of laborers like usual though.}

�gWould it be cheaper to have four, no, five mages keeping Stompy running and have it do all the work instead?
�h (Kira)

{Oh, use it as heavy-duty construction machinery, huh? �c Yes, it should be considerably cheaper if we use Stompy.
We won�ft even need to hire guards if it�fs around to chase off monsters.}

�gHow�fs that, Kelly?�h (Kira)

�gMmmmm�c What I really want to do is use it to punch something big in the face�c Still, it�fs something!
Thanks, Red!�h (Kelly)

Kelly walks out with a spring in her step. Her odd fascination with making bigger and heavier things is a bit
worrying, but she�fs still got a good head on her shoulders. Mostly anyway.

I keep enjoying the rest of the meal with my three lovely daughters. Lara is too enthralled by her steak to even notice
Sophie�fs been prodding her cheeks for the last two minutes. Aura�fs just being a good girl like always.

�c

Something�fs missing. Someone to be precise. I wish my wife would be done with training those guys so that I can
get to hug her and squeeze her and-

*Slam*

�gKiraaaaa!�h (Ellie)

�gEllieeee!�h (Kira)

I run at her the instant I see her come through the door! She meets me halfway by jumping straight into my open
arms!

*Glomp*

I catch her, spin her around and kiss her lips! After reaffirming her presence in my arms all my worries disappear
instantly! To fulfil my selfish wish before I even get a chance to say it out loud - as expected of her!

�gWow. Every time, huh?�h (Lara)

�gHehehe, Mommy looks funny when she spins Mommy around!�h (Sophie)

�gDabuuu!�h (Aura)

Aura, you don�ft have to join in if you don�ft want to.

�gNnnna!�h (Aura)

�gKiraa! *Sniffle* It was horribleee!�h (Ellie)

She looks up at me with teary eyes while burying her chin into my cleavage.

�gOh, there, there Ellie. I�fm here now.�h (Kira)

I gently stroke her hair and comfort her. My daily stress build-up seems so insignificant compared to what she has
had to endure every day for the last few weeks.

�gCome on, let�fs get you cleaned up.�h (Kira)

�g*Sniff sniff* Okay�c�h (Ellie)

�gAh, Nano, can you bring Aura up to our room later?�h (Kira)

{Leave it to me. You just focus on consoling Ellie.}

I put an arm around her shoulder and guide her out of the room and up the stairs. She�fs covered in dirt, mud and
soot like usual. No matter how hard she pushes those guys, she�fs still the one who has to do the most work.

We get into the bathroom, undressing each other along the way. Ellie just sits there sulkily while I rinse all that filth
off her beautiful skin and wash her soft hair. Then we climb into the bath together. I lean up against the edge of the
tub and Ellie nuzzles her head into my collar.

After about ten minutes of soaking in the hot water, she�fs finally calmed down enough to speak up.

�g... I had to hit her again today. I really didn�ft want to.�h (Ellie)
�gI know.�h (Kira)

�gBut I did it anyway. For her sake.�h (Ellie)

She probably hurt herself way more than she did Yuri.

�gI know.�h (Kira)

At least today doesn�ft seem to have been as bad as that time she ended up breaking Yuri�fs tail. Ellie said those
screams of agony gave her nightmares for a solid week. She�fs slowly getting over them, but her restlessness still
wakes me up in the middle of the night sometimes. Seeing her whimper in her sleep while drenched in cold sweat
like that makes me feel terrible.

�gThank you, for going along with my selfish whim.�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs not like that at all. Kira was right. That girl needed help badly. She never opens up to others and bottles up
everything until it explodes.�h (Ellie)

�gBut you said she found some reliable comrades, right?�h (Kira)

�gYeah. They seem to get along. Although that little runt needs to keep his fingers off her!�h (Ellie)

�gWell, he�fs fifteen. What did you expect?�h (Kira)

Russ is someone that only recently graduated from the Magic Academy. This is his first taste of the real world and
he has to watch that practically naked woman move around all day. Honestly, I�fm surprised he hasn�ft tried
anything more extreme than that.

�gAnd what about that dwarf? The one that quit the Legion to explore the world?�h (Kira)

�gHe does a good job at protecting both of them. Though he is getting on in years. He�fll probably have to retire
in less than a decade and will be left behind.�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm sure she will have made a lot more friends by then, though. Just look at us.�h (Kira)

A year ago we only had ourselves. Now we have a family so big we barely fit into this tower.

�gYeah. I just wish we could do more for her.�h (Ellie)

�gWe�fre already doing plenty though. Any more and we�fll end up spoiling her.�h (Kira)

We�fre showing her how to effectively use that stupidity-powered strength of hers, how to judge when to fight or
flee, what it means to trust others and how to direct her rage. She�fs soaking up all of our teachings like a sponge.
Even if Ellie�fs the only one she sees, she�fs the combined experience of everyone in [Black Flame] beaten into
her.

�gWe could always invite her to live with us.�h (Ellie)

�gThen she�fd get caught up with our particular brand of trouble though. She came here to seek self-improvement
and freedom, right?�h (Kira)

�gYeah�c�h (Ellie)

Something about wanting to escape an arranged marriage. Apparently her future husband was a real piece of trash
that already has 20 wives and just wants her because she has big breasts. That guy is like the enemy of women
everywhere! I really want to go stomp his face in! But then I�fd probably cause a war. He is the Emperor of her
home country after all.
�gStill, I didn�ft think she�fd be the one to come to us.�h (Kira)

We didn�ft even get a chance to start looking for her in the first place!

�gThat newspaper really helped after all, huh?�h (Ellie)

�gUgh�c don�ft remind me.�h (Kira)

She came because of our reputation. Nano spotted her heading into Runetap while scowling at everything that
moved. We already knew she was out there somewhere, but the fact she wasn�ft human was still a bit shocking.
But since she came to us wanting to learn, I wanted Ellie to teach her precisely what it means to be in this dangerous
and unpredictable line of work. She was a bit conflicted, but did her duty anyway.

Since she�fs the wife.

�gShe is a lot like you.�h (Ellie)

�gWell�c How could she not be?�h (Kira)

�gNo, I mean on the inside. She worries about everything and refuses to give up on her goals. Now if only I could
do something about that �esmile�f of hers...�h (Ellie)

�gRight�c How did she even think that was a proper smile in the first place?�h (Kira)

I could barely recognize Ellie�fs face when she mimicked Yuri�fs expression at first! To think such a thing was
even possible!

�gNot sure. It seems to be a habit she learned in her childhood. It might just be the way salamanders smile.�h
(Ellie)

�gWell, we�fll find out eventually. I do want to visit that country of hers and steal- acquire the secret behind
those runes.�h (Kira)

A magic tool that can produce a High-tier spell after being charged with mana. The possibilities such a thing opens
up are almost limitless! It�fs sure to be a huge help to Nano in particular! But from what Ellie has learned it seems
to be a sort of state secret.

�gMaybe we should just go overthrow that Emperor guy and solve both problems at once!�h (Ellie)

�gEasy there, Ellie. Remember what I told you about taking over countries we don�ft like?�h (Kira)

�gYeah, yeah. Still, fantasizing about it makes me feel a bit better.�h (Ellie)

We spend a few more minutes soaking in silence.

�gAre you sure you don�ft want to meet her?�h (Ellie)

�gYeah. She�fs still green. Let her climb up the Ranks on her own, she�fll find out about us eventually.�h
(Kira)

�gI�fm sure that won�ft take too long though.�h (Ellie)

�gIf what you keep telling me about her is true, then she might even beat our record!�h (Kira)

�gHehehe! It wouldn�ft be weird at all if that happened, huh?�h (Ellie)

A lonely person with a bad temper and trouble trusting others. I hate to admit it, but she�fs almost exactly like I
was. Ellie had Nano. I had my Dad. But that poor girl seemed to have nobody but herself. Why is it all of us have to
suffer in some way? Well, I�fm sure she�fll overcome it.

She is me, after all.

The third one with the same face - Yuri Teleila.

She is her own person though. Making her tag along with us just because we share a face isn�ft something I have
any right to do. The way she is now, just revealing this connection will probably make her latch onto us. If years
down the line we end up working together, then so be it. If our paths never cross again and she finds happiness on
her own, then that would be fine too.

I just hope there�fs at least one version of me out there that has led a normal, peaceful life so far...

End of Act Nine - Trinity

Side Story - Reunions would be far less awkward if people stopped
trying to recount your embarrassing past - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> ???? Pov <

�gLaaa~�ô! Laa-da-daaa ~?! Laaa-la-taaa~�ô!�h (Lara A)

Such a wonderful little song. Even though she�fs being rather quiet, I can clearly make out Lara�fs voice over
clacking sounds of our carriage. Bringing her along on these routine journeys between Runetap and Kotero was the
right decision. It makes the long trip feels like a small vacation!

I just can�ft get enough of her cheerful disposition! I honestly don�ft know where I�fd be if I ever let go of her. I
just wish she realized I was trying to confess to her months ago! Why did I have to get help from that damned spider
to make her realize I cared for her?!

Well, it was also my own fault. I was so worried she might reject me outright that I wasn�ft able to clearly state my
feelings.

�gThink we can afford to go on a proper honeymoon soon?�h (Lara A)

She hugs my arm with her whole body and smiles up at me. How could I refuse such a polite request?!

ZUBLOS SHALL LET THE WHOLE WORLD KNOW OF HIS TERRIBLE FURY!
�gOh honey! You don�ft need to go that far! Though I appreciate the thought!�h (Lara A)

I really do want to show her this world, though. So much to see, so much to-

I feel a presence in the treeline, to our right. I leave the reigns to my fiance and jump off the carriage while drawing
my sword. She nods at me and gets ready to flee with the horses should there be too many enemies.

I do not plan on repeating my mistake!

WHO DARES INTERRUPT ZUBLOS?! KNOW THAT ANY WHO OBSTRUCT MY

GLORIOUS PASSAGE WILL BE CRUSHED WITHOUT MERCY
There�fs a slight movement in the bushes. Slowly but surely, a small figure steps out of the forest. It�fs�c Ash?!
The face is as oddly cute as ever. Olive-green skin that seems to glisten slightly in the sun. Two short golden
horns that pop out from under a mass of long, black hair. A body so small and thin you�fd think it was a child that
hasn�ft hit puberty yet. And don�ft even get me started on those twintails...
�gEeeeek!�h (Ash)

Yep. That tiny squeak is definitely Ash. This is bad. I know this pattern. Next thing you know there�fs going to be
a-

*Sssssssssslop*
�gGreat and mighty Zublos! I hath found thee at last!�h (Ash)

-sliding grovel with a barely audible whisper as greeting. What is Ash doing here?! I thought all of Zublos�fs
lieutenants were sealed away by the Hero long ago!

�gHoney?�h (Lara A)
This is terribly bad! Lara�fs looking over here with a dubious expression! Is she jealous? She might be jealous!

�gDo you know this flat-chested girl with the fancy black dress?!�h (Lara A)

Of course she�fs jealous! I completely thought this would happen! But I can�ft explain myself because of
Zublos�fs damn mouth!
�gI am Zublos�fs servant, wench! Who dares speaketh to mine glorious master in such a way!�h (Ash)

Don�ft add fuel to the fire you stupid-

�gOh! His �eservant�f huh?! Who do you think you are, you floozy! Stay away from my man!�h (Lara A)

ENOUGH! ZUBLOS WILL NOT TOLERATE INSUBORDINATION!

�g...�h (Lara A and Ash)

Well, they�fre still glaring at each other, but at least I can get some words in here. Right, let�fs put this in a way
that both of them can understand!

FILTHY WRETCH! HOW DARE A LOWLY WORM LIKE YOURSELF ASSUME TO

BE ZUBLOS�fS SERVANT! YOU ARE NOT WORTHY!
�gEeeek!�h (Ash)

*Sssssssssslop*

And now we�fre back to the sliding grovel again. I honestly think the reason Ash�fs black gothic-style dress is so
short is because the hem of its skirt would be in tatters if it hung down below the knees...
�gW-w-wise and powerful one. I humbly apologize for mine mistake and beg thee to spare mine life.�h (Ash)

Also that barely audible whisper is starting to get on my nerves!

BE QUIET, PATHETIC WRETCH

Ash visibly trembles in response. Well, using fear like this leaves a bad taste in my mouth, but maybe now I can
clear up a few misunderstandings! I turn around and face Lara. She looks up at me with a difficult to read
expression.

�gSomeone you know, after all?�h (Lara A)

I nod.

�gYou two weren�ft�c in a relationship, right?�h (Lara A)

I shake my head.

�gSo you don�ft have feelings for this girl.�h (Lara A)

I shake my head again.

�gBut does she have feelings for you?�h (Lara A)

I shrug my shoulders. I honestly have no idea. I remember bits and pieces about Ash such as that peculiar dress
sense and strange behavior, but that�fs about it. It doesn�ft matter though. I just need to reassure Lara!
THE GREAT AND MIGHTY ZUBLOS SHALL SPARE ONLY THOSE WHO PLEDGE
LOYALTY TO HIM
�gAww, honey! You say the sweetest things!�h (Lara A)

She blushes and fidgets a bit. I guess my words got through to her properly. I�fm glad.

�gWhat about this girl, though? If she�fs someone you know, then is she one of your Ancient Evil comrades?�h
(Lara A)

Well, she got most of that right, so I�fll nod for now.

�gShe won�ft�c harm me, right?�h (Lara A)

Right. Ash seems to idolize and worship Zublos, so anything I say should become law, right? I look down at the
bent over and trembling �eAncient Evil�f that seems determined to bury its head into the dirt.

PITIFUL WEAKLING! KNOW THAT YOU ARE THE LOWEST AMONG ZUBLOS�fS
SERVANTS AND SLAVES! I SHALL HAVE YOUR HEAD ON A PLATTER SHOULD
YOU LET ANY HARM COME TO ANY OF THEM!
�gI hear and obey the most evil one.�h (Ash)

I turn around and give Lara a thumbs up. She smiles and nods understandingly. Still, I should probably take some
precautions, just in case. Unlike Zublos, Ash doesn�ft have a super-powerful body so it�fll be fine if I just borrow
another pair of [Shackles of Eternal Damnation]. The Runetap City Guard quartermaster still owes me big time for
that jockstrap incident, so I�fm sure we can work something out.

I don�ft think I should leave someone like Ash unattended at all though. In some ways, it�fs my responsibility to
keep an eye out for Zublos�fs former subordinates. Mostly to make sure they don�ft hurt others anymore.

PUNY ONE! THE GREAT AND POWERFUL ZUBLOS COMMANDS YOU TO AID IN
HIS GLORIOUS CONQUEST!
�gUnderstood. I shall follow thy orders without question.�h (Ash)

A job at my place should be good enough for now. All things considered, that cute face and quiet attitude are sure to
bring in some customers. Although acting as a waitress might be a waste. If I remember right, Ash created
something cold and sweet called Ice Cream. I�fll have to see if we can reproduce it in the kitchen.

Heh. The Hero made a really dumb face when Ash tried to tempt him over to Zublos�fs side with a serving of the
stuff. It might have worked, but appearing before the Hero while wearing nothing but black laced panties was
pushing things a bit too far. If you stop and think about it, there�fs no way that uptight self-righteous prick would
ever be into someone like Ash.

***
�gBehold, for I have brought thee thy order! Two plates of Pleasantly Peachy Pancakes and one Strawberry of Despair.�h (Ash)

�gThanks a lot missy!�h (Male Customer 1)

�gThou art very welcome.�h (Ash)

Ash bows to them and goes to wait at another table.

�gYou were right, she�fs super cute! I wonder if she has a boyfriend?!�h (Male Customer 2)
�gDude. Come on. She�fs clearly not of age yet.�h (Male Customer 1)

�gI know, I just need to know if I should bother waiting for her. He growth is bound to be amazing!�h (Male
Customer 2)

�gHeh. Can�ft argue with that!�h (Male Customer 1)

I smile a bit and walk away from prying eyes, towards my office in the back. I really want to keep an eye on things
out there, but showing Zublos�fs face around people who are trying to eat isn�ft a good way to attract customers.
I enter my office and double-check the numbers.

Having Ash wait tables has been a huge success, as expected. It�fs barely been two weeks, but we�fve already
had a 20% increase in the number of customers each day. We might suffer a bit if word gets out that Ash is really a
guy, though.

Admittedly, it might just die down as a baseless rumor. After all, even Lara was having a hard time believing it. That
cross-dressing habit of his didn�ft help my case much, either. His hair, face, body and voice are all so effeminate
that it�fs impossible to tell his gender unless he strips completely naked. He somehow makes even those Titan-
made shackles on his wrists look like stylish bracelets!

Still, a reliable subordinate is a reliable subordinate. I think deep down he�fs glad people are admiring his looks
rather than cowering in fear at his terrible magic. If he keeps this can-do attitude up I might just leave this Capital
branch to him soon. Then I can focus on looking for other suitable locations for the next expansion!

�gUhm, boss?�h (Lara A)

Lara pokes her head into my office. I really wish she would stop calling me �eboss�f at work. It makes me feel a
bit lonely�c

�gThat giant spider lady is waiting for you on the roof again.�h (Lara A)

I raise an eyebrow at her.

�gIt�fs the white one. And yes, she�fs properly dressed.�h (Lara A)

I nod and get off my chair. I leave my office and make my way up the stairs, past the second floor and onto the
wide, flat roof of my building. I look around and see Skittles waiting patiently for me, her white form and spider-silk
gown blending in almost completely with the snow. Hmm... Maybe I should have someone shovel this stuff?

I take a few steps closer to her and cross my arms. This should be close enough for her to �ehear�f me properly.

What are you doing here, White?

�gJust dropping in to check on you. I heard you found one of your old comrades.�h (Skittles)

One of Zublos�fs comrades.

�gRight. Sorry. Well, your precious shop is still standing so I suppose everything is under control.�h (Skittles)

You could say that. At least that guy is one of the more docile ones. He cares more about following Zublos around
than causing trouble.

�gI see. I guess I was worried over nothing.�h (Skittles)

Worried? You?! That�fs rich! The big and powerful Soulforger is worried about lil�f old me! Cut the crap.
You�fre just thinking about yourself!
�g... Okay, I earned that.�h (Skittles)

You�fve earned much worse! Do you even realize how lucky this entire situation is?! History would�fve repeated
itself if Zublos didn�ft randomly get knocked out by a Titan-forged artifact last year!

�gYes, I know. You said as much during our first�c reunion.�h (Skittles)

Stop calling it that! You know full well that�fs the first time you and I met!

�g... I�fm sorry.�h (Skittles)

Don�ft you look away from me! Feast your eyes on your mistake! Do not even once believe I will forgive you for
what you�fve done to me!

�gI COULDN�fT CONTROL HER!�h (Skittles)

SO YOU DUMPED HER ON ME!? An old alchemist that wanted to live peacefully and study herbs!? Did you
honestly believe a man like me was prepared to handle that sort of thing?!

�gI was desperate!�h (Skittles)

Yeah, so what else is new?! If you truly wish to apologize, then get this blasted thing out of me this instant!

�g...�h (Skittles)

But you can�ft, can you?! No, you�fre too scared of what might happen! What about me?! Do you know how
terrified I get at times?! Just imagining what Zublos would do if these shackles break is enough to make me want to
hurl! But I can�ft even do that right!

�gTitan-forged artifacts-�h (Skittles)

I KNOW THEY�fRE INDESTRUCTIBLE! I know! But that doesn�ft help my peace of mind, you worthless
bitch! You know full well I can still feel it clawing at the back of my head, gnawing to get out!

Ahh, now I�fve worked myself up! Damn it! Just�c leave me be so I can calm down. I don�ft want my fiance to
see me like this.

...

What�fs with that sad smile you�fre giving me?

�gDespite everything you�fve said�c You do realize it�fs entirely within your power to crush that side of me
now that she�fs subdued, yes?�h (Skittles)

�c I�fm no murderer. Her influence may have taken over my body and done unspeakable things, but I refuse to
stoop down to her level.

�gThat is why I owe you. You have every right to annihilate Black for what she�c For what we did to you. But
you didn�ft. You�fre a good man, Arthur.�h (Skittles)

I was a good man. Now I�fm just armageddon waiting to happen. My only solace is I�fve found people who
accept what I�fve become.

People who can stop me should the worst come to pass.

�g... Yeah.�h (Skittles)

Chapter 136 - Phone interviews may seem impersonal, but they're also
convenient in their own way - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Act Ten - The Shattered Sky

> Kira PoV <

�gThink we should be doing this?�h (Ellie)

�gAbsolutely! The sooner we know, the better!�h (Kira)

�gBut Kira�c I�fm a bit scared�c We haven�ft done it ever since we found out you were pregnant...�h (Ellie)

�gIt�fs okay! Skittles said she fixed us up so we should be completely good to go, right! It�fs bound to be even
better than it used to be!�h (Kira)

Ellie looks around worriedly. We�fre already naked and under the covers, so I don�ft see why she�fs being
hesitant. It�fs not usually like her. Come to think of it, the stress of having to be harsh towards the other me is a bit
too much for the dutiful Ellie. She probably thinks herself undeserving of me since she had to hurt someone with the
same face.

Or rather, I�fm sure that�fs the case. I can basically read her thoughts with the way her eyes dart away from my
face and how her lips curl up a bit whenever she looks towards my arms and legs. Alright, let�fs give her a gentle
push!

�gYou did promise me four hundred babies, right?�h (Kira)

Her eyes widen in shock for a brief moment before she makes a tired expression. She may have blurted it out
without thinking, but a promise is a promise. And I have every intention of making her keep this one ~?!

�gMe and my big mouth�c Alright.�h (Ellie)

It was a bit mean of me, but she�fs a bit too serious for her own good sometimes. Besides, I�fm really curious if
this will feel even better than before! After all, Skittles�fs treatment left both me and my wife more in tune with all
our senses.

I put a hand on her cheek and she mirrors the gesture. We press our foreheads together. Just thinking how good the
regular lovemaking has been lately makes me quiver with anticipation. This next bit is bound to feel amazing! I just
have to be careful I don�ft break from the pleasure ~?!

�g�g--------- [Unity]�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

The eyes in front of me flash purple as I feel our minds merging together.

Woah!

This feels way more comfortable than before!

Kira was right, Skittles�fs treatment had a really good effect on this!

Fufufu, of course! Welcome back into my head, Ellie ~?!

Ah, Kira!

Then, shall we get started?

Yeah!

She sure is awfully enthusiastic about this whole thing all of a sudden, isn�ft she?

Why wouldn�ft I be?!

I get to be the intimate with Kira on a whole other level!

Thinking about it logically, I�fd be a failure as a wife if I refused it any longer!

Now there�fs the Ellie that I know and love ~?! You know you�fve been acting weird ever since that whole Yuri
thing started. You know you don�ft need to beat yourself up over it that much, right?

Of course I realize that.

Yuri is her own person and not actually my wife.

But the heart does what the heart wills.

Fufufu. Then shall we get started? You still remember how to do this, right?

Yeah!

Okay then. On three. One. Two. Three!

> Kirellie PoV <

We gaze into the eyes of our other selves. They�fre glowing with a steady, unshakable purple light.

�g�gGreat success!�h�h (Kirellie)

{I really wish you two would warn me you were going to do that.}

�g�gIt�fs not like you didn�ft see it coming, Nano.�h�h (Kirellie)

{I suppose that�fs true. Well, I�fll leave you to your fun. Good luck with the whole babymaking thing.}

�g�gMmm... We�fve been looking forward to this ~?!�h�h (Kirellie)

We feel our bodies with our combined hands. Being able to both fondle and be fondled at once always felt nice. But
feeling the combined sensations from four hands and four breasts is exhilarating! Our bodies are already going into
high gear! We move in for a long kiss. The combined sensations of both our bodies are almost overwhelming! As
expected, we this is way too good! We might seriously lose it if we go too far with this ~?!

Ah, excuse me, but is this a bad time?

And the mood disappeared. Still, there must be something really important going on. Otherwise Nano wouldn�ft
interrupt our very special time together.

�g�gWhat is it Nano?�h�h (Kirellie)

{Hmm?}

�g�gYou wanted something, right?�h�h (Kirellie)

We just hope it�fs not something catastrophic like that Mana Engine prototype exploding. The burnt patch of our
front lawn is still not fully grown back!
{No. Nothing that can�ft wait, at any rate.}

Is this thing on? Hello?

�g�g... Why are there two Nanos?�h�h (Kirellie)

{Pardon?}

Pardon?

There it is again! A second voice that sounds exactly like Nano�fs! Wait, this one isn�ft coming from our ears! If
it was, we�fd have the weird feeling of hearing it twice! It almost feels like when we use Telepathy to
communicate remotely!

Oh! So you can hear me! Good, good. It�fs the first time I�fm trying something like this.

�c

Don�ft be like that. I�fm not here to hurt you. Why would I ever hurt two of my most promising applicants? Or is
it one? Bah, details!

Who�c are you?!

You may call me the Voice of the World.

Okay�c and why do you sound like Nano?

No idea. Every being perceives me differently.

Alright then. What are you?

Very good question. To begin with, I�fm not actually a person. I am the manifested will of this little corner of
reality we call home. I keep an eye on every living thing that walks this world. And a number of others beyond it.

Oh wow! You�fre almost exactly like Nano!

Yes, so I�fve gathered. I have felt the ripples of this Nano, but as a being with no soul it is�c outside my
perception.

{What�fs going on? Why did you two suddenly go quiet?}

There! Nano just spoke. Did you at least hear that?

Nope.

Right�c this will make things awkward. Do you mind waiting a second, Mister Voice?

No problem. I�fm in no rush.

�g�gSo uh�c there�fs this Voice of the World thing in our heads. It sounds exactly like you do. It�fs a bit
freaky.�h�h (Kirellie)

{Ah. So it really did happen. Draglael warned me it might try get in touch with us.}

�g�gWhat?! You knew about this?! You could�fve said something earlier!�h�h (Kirellie)

{She shared a secret with me in private and I promised her I�fd keep it until the time was right. I�fd be a failure
as a person if I broke her trust like that. Ah, even though I�fm not a person.}
Ah. We see. We�fd probably do the same. Must have been hard on Nano since we promised not to keep big secrets
like that from each other.

�g�gWhy does it sound like you, though?�h�h (Kirellie)

{Not sure. Come to think of it, Draglael said it�fs a trustworthy all-knowing invisible thing. That�fs pretty much
how you two see me, right?}

�g�gWe suppose that�fs true. Nano is really excellent after all.�h�h (Kirellie)

{I appreciate that. I�fm not omnipotent though.}

�g�gYet you still somehow find the answers we need.�h�h (Kirellie)

{Haha. Can�ft argue with you there. Anyway, this is probably important so I�fll let you three talk in peace. Just
call out if you need me.}

�g�gYou got it. Thanks Nano.�h�h (Kirellie)

Sorry about that, Mister Voice. We�fre ready to listen to anything you have to say.

So this is what hearing only one side of a conversation feels like. Wow, that was weird!

That�fs rich coming from the so-called �emanifested will of the planet!�f Do you even realize how absurd that
idea is?!

And yet you two seem to know of a being that�fs pretty much exactly like me. Albeit on a much smaller scale.

�c Okay. You�fve made your point. What do you want with us, anyway?

Allow me to explain from the start. To begin with, it was my doing that brought the two of you to this world.

What?! Why? How?!

It�fs one of the things I do. I peer into other realities and pluck promising individuals out of the jaws of death,
bringing them here to safety.

So�c we�fre both here because we almost died? And you saved us?

That is correct.

We know about Ellie�fs situation, but why was Kira�fs life in danger?!

She was sentenced to public execution in her old world. She was still a toddler at the time.

�c We were almost killed as a child? What sort of horrible people would do such an unspeakable thing?!

Her former world did not actually possess mana or magic, but the ignorant masses did not know that. They feared
her unnaturally bright red hair was a sign of �ethe end times�f and condemned a child to death over superstition.
They tied you up to a wooden stake on top of a wood pile and set fire to it while cheering. I summoned her to this
world before the flames reached you. To this day that vicious crowd believes she turned to ash.

That�fs monstrous! Where are those people?! We�fll show them a thing or two about threatening our wife!

Easy there, us. We need to calm down or we�fll desynchronize. We appreciate the sentiment, but that�fs all in the
distant past.

Right. We�fre sorry Mister Voice. We have just one question. What was that little girl�fs name?
Juniper Frostvale.

We see. This is one of the things we�fve been wanting to know ever since we found out about our origins. Thank
you. For that. For saving our lives and bringing us together.

You�fre very welcome. Although that last bit was an accident.

What do you mean an accident? You didn�ft orchestrate our meeting?

Of course not. I had no idea Ellie was Kiressara�fs mirrored soul from another reality until I actually brought her
to this one.

But what about that ship that flew directly over the city?! Wasn�ft that you basically telling us to find outselves?

Uhm... There was interference with the transfer. That so-called Jump Drive activated at the same instant that I
sought to summon her through the Gate. It created a bigger hole than I was expecting and threw off my aim.

Are you sure you�fre qualified to be ripping open holes in reality?

Of course I am. So what if I mess up every few millenia years or so? Nobody�fs perfect. Besides, it�fs highly likely
you would�fve crossed paths with each other sooner or later. Promising individuals are inevitably drawn to each
other, you see.

We suppose that�fs true. But why did you deem us �epromising?�f

Because souls that escape death and overcome adversity often attain a certain strength beyond their means. And you
two showed some promise even before I brought you here. Must be part of your soul-line. Even your counterpart
who was born here seems destined for great things. Really top-quality stuff! I�fm tempted to bring even more of
you here, to be honest!

Please don�ft do that! We don�ft think our hearts can take much more of that sort of thing!

I can�ft promise that. If I deem it necessary, I will summon them here.

Haah. If you must, then please at least tell us if that happens, okay? The least we can do is prepare and educate them
properly.

Understood. Then I shall be counting on you two to guide them when the time comes!

You seem awfully sure it�fll happen. Then again, with our track record...

Now then! The reason we�fre actually speaking is your souls have begun to change and evolve.

Is that bad? That sounds bad.

It isn�ft. Change is always good, even if it�fs a bit scary sometimes. It also keeps things interesting.

Right�c So what caused it?

You�fve unwittingly completed two out of three Trials of Creation. That�fs something that has only happened
once before, you know! As a result, whether you like it or not, this world has recognized your value and has
accepted your applications.

We�fre sorry, trials? Applications? What?

Right, you haven�ft heard of them. Basically, if someone passes all three Trials, they are given the option of
ascending to a Titan.

Wait, you�fre telling us we�fre going to be Titans?!

I am telling you that you posses the potential. Whether you have the determination to achieve it is something else.
Just keep in mind Titanhood isn�ft something that is forced on you. It is something you must seek out and work
towards, then ultimately accept. It is within every applicant�fs right to abandon this pursuit should they wish to do
it. There are those who have earned, but refused it.

So it comes with some strings attached after all? We always thought those Titans were a bit too loopy. Right, before
that, can you tell us about these trials? We want to know exactly what got us into this situation.

Very well. The first one is called the Tribute to Gaia. To put it simply, it is a gift which influences the world at large.
Something that inspires and elevates its residents to new heights. Something that breeds change. And change is
always a good thing.

Did we do something that grand?

Oh, but you did. This Mana Engine of yours is a fitting Tribute.

Really? Something that small?

The object may be small, but what it represents is immense. A harmonious fusion of science and magic nobody had
ever been able to accomplish before. Much like everything else you two have done in the last year, it has caused
many to doubt what they know to be true and reevaluate what they thought to be false. To seek deeper understanding
of the world at large rather than rely on the convenience of magic. You have reignited the long-dormant Fire of
Knowledge. And it is spreading wonderfully!

So�c We made people mind things too much, so we got volunteered to be Titans?

Basically what I�fm saying, yes. I�fm honestly looking forward to the next absurd thing you�fll show me!

You sound like you�fre having fun.

Of course I am! It�fs been too long since someone as interesting as you two has shown up! Most of those other
guys offered a Tribute by creating a continent or building a nation at the bottom of the ocean. Extremely uninspired.

Other guys? You mean the current Titans?

That�fs right.

We see. So they really did go through such things. Out of curiousity, what did Skittles do for her Tribute?

She created a sanctuary. A repository where lost souls may find the rest they seek. I believe she explained how she
came to be what she is.

Right�c Sorry, but that seems a little�c weak? We�fre sure it�fs amazing, but how does that breed change,
exactly?

Alright, I may have bended the rules a little. Sometimes you have to cut through a bit of red tape, okay?

Is that okay? You�fre supposed to be in charge of the whole world and its Titans, right? Is it really okay to be this
casual about stuff?

Of course. Besides, it�fs not like you two didn�ft benefit from her appointment. Or would you rather that this
world was left without a Soulforger that could save your daughter?
Geh! That�fs right, isn�ft it? We really should apologize for doubting you.

Don�ft worry about it. That�fs the sort of attitude I expect from you to begin with.

Then we can at least thank you for saving our daughter�fs life, yes?

Thank Skittles, not me. She�fs the excellent one. Ah, speaking of your daughter, that brings me to the second Trial
of Creation, called the Breath of Ahwa. To pass it, applicants must give birth to their kin. An entirely new species of
sentient beings. Your daughter, the first Archon, is yours. And you don�ft need to worry about her well-being so
much. This world has already accepted her as one of its flock. She was born here, after all.

We see. We�fre glad. We don�ft know what we�fd do if our daughter had to be cast out just for being different.
Wait, so are all the other races made by Titans?

Most of them. Elves, Dwarves, Humans, Avians, Salamanders, Mountain Giants, Cat-folk, Mermen and Arachni.
These nine. They all trace their roots back to a Titan.

And they were all born here, right? On this world?

Of course.

Then why is it that our daughter is so completely different?

What do you mean?

From us! She�fs a completely different existence from her own birth parents! What are we supposed to tell her
when she asks us why she doesn�ft look even remotely human?!

You can proudly state you created her without cheating.

�c What?

Think about it. A lot of these races look largely Human, right? Some have scales, others are shorter or with pointy
ears, but the face and general shape are almost overwhelmingly human.

Now that you mention it�c Are Mermen like that too? We�fve not seen any of those.

They look completely human apart from the gills and webbed feet and hands.

What about Skittles, though? She�fs the most non-human living thing we�fve seen! Aside from monsters, that is.
Come to think of it, cat-folk look absolutely nothing like humans. Even their bones are quite different.

Because their creators didn�ft cheat either. Enuri made Humans entirely by his own strength, much like Khamis
when he created the cat-folk. As for Skittles, her kin is basically herself and those inside her.

That�c can you have a race of just one person?

You know her shape shifting body is perfectly capable of splitting apart, right? They just choose to stick together
because they can never rejoin her if they separate. Also, the way they reproduce takes a long time, but they can still
reproduce, so they qualify.

So what about, say, the dwarves? Didn�ft Draglael create them in her image?

The Steelmother lacked the strength to recreate her people. She was originally a dwarf from another world, you see.
She yearned for her lost home, but sending her back was not an option. So she set out to become a Titan and
recreate her people and culture right here. But since she lacked the strength, she had to get help. And because Enuri
was the co-creator of the dwarven race you know, they ended up looking quite a bit like his own kin.
Huh. How were these dwarves different from Draglael?

For one thing, their lifespans are much shorter. The Steelmother�fs original body lived to be over 400 years old
before it gave out. Also she had a beard. Something her �edaughters�f didn�ft quite inherit. At least their rather
unique character had been passed on, so she was satisfied even that much was present after she cheated on the
Breath of Ahwa.

Wait, so by �echeating�f you mean getting help from other Titans?

Pretty much.

But we borrowed Khamis and Skittles to heal our daughter. That doesn�ft count as cheating?

You already had a daughter at that point, did you not? Besides, if I had done a better job at bringing you here, then
their assistance would not have been necessary in the first place. I did say this world desperately needed a
Soulforger, did I not?

Ah. Come to think of it, why are you only speaking up now? Didn�ft all that stuff happen a long while ago?

I was waiting for you to two to use [Unity]. It makes communicating with you much, much easier. Great spell, by the
way. I�fm sure you two will clear the final Trial with flying colors.

�c And what would this final Trial be?

The Gaze of Magnus. You have to create a completely original school of magic and pass it onto your kin.

But didn�ft we already do that?

Oh no. These Telepathy-based spells stem from your humanity. It�fs not something you can pass onto your
daughter. You have to transcend and go beyond everything you know and understand to create a truly new school of
magic. You don�ft have otherworldly magical knowledge like some of the others, after all.

That sounds�c incredibly complicated. We wouldn�ft even know where to start. And besides, wouldn�ft only
one of us get to �eascend�f anyway? We don�ft think we could bear an eternity without our wives�c

And who said I was talking about you separately?

Huh?

A multi-souled Titan isn�ft unprecedented, you know. Skittles and Dorr are both beings like that. Oh, I see. You two
are misunderstanding something.

We are?

Becoming a Titan is very different from what you�fre thinking. Applicants who pass the Trials of Creation do not
get transformed into another being or a different race. Titanhood is, essentially, an appointed office. It doesn�ft
change who you are, it just saddles you with a bunch of responsibilities and gives you access to certain perks to
compensate you for your troubles.

�c Is there any paperwork involved?

A little. Just an audit once every hundred years or so. Maybe a few forms when you need a holiday or sick leave. Ah!
If you see Skittles, do remind her that her vacation days are almost used up. Those kin of hers have a bad habit of
not relaying my messages to thier boss. I need her to get back to work soon.

Work? What sort of work?

That is something you�fll find out if you manage to clear Trial number three. Don�ft worry, all the details will be
in the contract with only the tiniest amount of small print. Anyway, that�fs more or less all I came here to say so
I�fll be leaving now.

Wait! We haven�ft even said we wanted to become Titans in the first place! And how do you know we wouldn�ft
just abuse that sort of power?!

Do you honestly believe anything can pull a fast one on the Voice of the World? I know you better than you know
yourselves.

You don�ft know Nano though.

Uhm. Uhhh... Huh. Okay. I stand corrected. Anyway, I can just fire you if you breach your contract, so it�fs no skin
off my back. Not that I have a back. Or skin. Absolute worst-case scenario, I purge the surface and start over from
scratch. Wouldn�ft be the first time.

Wait, what?

Speaking of time, I really should be going now. Toodles!

Purge the surface?! Hey, don�ft just say ominous things like that! HEY!!

�c

It hung up on us! How rude! Well, nothing we can do about that now. Not like we can force it to appear if it
doesn�ft want to.

So where were we? Oh, I see we�fve been sneakily caressing ourselves to keep us in the mood! Good job, us!

Hehehehe! We got praised!

We deserve it though, we�fre quite wonderful after all!

Ah, but we�fre far more wonderful than we will ever be! And beautiful too!

Stop that, us! You�fre making us blush ~?!

We�fre about to make us do a lot more than just blush!

�g�gHaaahnnnn!�h�h (Kirellie)

{I sincerely hope that means your conversation�fs over.}

�g�gMMMnnnn�c Yaaaahn ~?! Haah, haaah, haah, haaaaaahaahn!�h�h (Kirellie)

{Sorry, I�fll just... Yeah.}

Intermission - An overview of a certain disembodied voice's employees -
Binary Soul | Royal Road
Name: Boris Stormoff
Title: Khamis the Shadowspinner
Origins: Summoned from a non-magical world as a human
Personality: Unlike his brother, he hates people and shuts himself off from the world. Prefers the company of cats
Tribute to Gaia: The mechanism by which every soul is born with the capacity to feel and manipulate mana.
Breath of Ahwa: Cat-folk
Gaze of Magnus: Shadow Magic
Name: Vasya Stormoff
Title: Enuri the Lightbinder
Origins: Summoned from a non-magical world as a human
Personality: Unlike his brother, he loves people and exercise. Extremely optimistic. Often pushes things a bit too
far.
Tribute to Gaia: The mechanism by which high densities of mana are absorbed by the sun, preventing Mana
Storms. The excess magical energy must be vented into the Void every twelve months, during which some side
effects may occur.
Breath of Ahwa: Humans
Gaze of Magnus: Barrier Magic
Name: White; Kindness; Boss
Title: Skittles the Soulforger
Origins: Drifted into this reality by accident as an air elemental
Personality: Originally non-sentient. Easy to influence if exposed to extreme situations or overpowering emotions
she�fs not familiar with.
Tribute to Gaia: A sanctuary that offers lost and tortured souls a place to stay
Breath of Ahwa: Arachni
Gaze of Magnus: Soul Manipulation
Name: Dorri Flintsprocket
Title: Draglael the Steelmother
Origins: Summoned from a magical world as a dwarf
Personality: Loud and obnoxious, but good natured. Cares for her kin far more than other Titans.
Tribute to Gaia: The creation and spread of Mithril
Breath of Ahwa: Dwarves
Gaze of Magnus: Golems
Name: Donnod
Title: Umphrumphil the Stoneshaper
Origins: Native. One of the first Giants.
Personality: Slightly senile. Prone to falling asleep at inopportune times.
Tribute to Gaia: Raising the northern continent above sea level
Breath of Ahwa: Mountain Giants
Gaze of Magnus: Stasis Magic
Name: Chin Po
Title: Porto the Windwalker
Origins: Summoned from a non-magical world as a Tengu
Personality: A snob. Looks down on others for their own good. Or so he claims.
Tribute to Gaia: The spread of music and culture among primitives
Breath of Ahwa: Avians
Gaze of Magnus: Vocal Magic
Name: Mirelia
Title: Nora the Waterbearer
Origins: Native. Last of the original Island Turtles.
Personality: Extremely shy and introverted. Cannot speak with others at all.
Tribute to Gaia: Established a nation at the bottom of the Mirelian Ocean
Breath of Ahwa: Mermen
Gaze of Magnus: Liquid Transmutation
Name: The Collective
Title: Dorr the Woodcarver
Origins: Native. The remnants of the Treant Hivemind that once dominated the western continent
Personality: Laid back and lazy. Lacks any sort of motivation unless donuts are involved.
Tribute to Gaia: Restored the western continent�fs barren soil by sacrificing 90% of its Treants as fertilizer
Breath of Ahwa: Elves
Gaze of Magnus: Life Magic
Name: Updog
Title: Rosar the Firebreather
Origins: Summoned from a magical world as a Dragon
Personality: Loud and proud. Obsessed with setting things on fire and then blowing them up
Tribute to Gaia: Runeforging
Breath of Ahwa: Salamanders
Gaze of Magnus: Explosion Magic
Chapter 137 - Despite what people say, you can definitely teach an old
dog new tricks - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gSo that�fs the gist of it.�h (Kira)

{I see. So it was something like that. Are you going to do it?}

�gMaybe. That Voice thing refused to tell us what sort of strings Titanhood came attached with.�h (Kira)

�gWe�fre still going to try though.�h (Ellie)

{Understood. Good luck with that.}

�gWhy are you talking like you�fre unconcerned? Are you feeling down again?�h (Kira)

I really wish Nano wouldn�ft get so depressed every time the topic of magic comes up. It�fs been getting worse
ever since that Mithril experiment failed. Apparently it was impossible for Nano to make more of itself out of the
stuff. Orichalcum was a no-go as well.

{Oh no, that�fs not what I meant. I�fll help out as much as possible. It�fs just that I�fm just doubtful you can
actually do it.}

�gHuh?�h (Kira)

{You already told me the spells you managed to create so far were all incredibly complicated concepts in terms of
moulding mana, right?}

�gYeah? So?�h (Kira)

{Well, if you have to go that far for new spells, an entire new discipline would be well beyond anything a single
mind can put together.}

�gRight. I think I see what you mean.�h (Kira)

If there�fs too many things you have to keep track of at once, it�fll overwhelm the mind and you�fll lose the
spell. Since we can�ft pass on [Unity] or [Thought Echo] then we have to think in a completely different
direction.

�gWhy not just get some help?�h (Ellie)

�gHuh? But wouldn�ft that be cheating?�h (Kira)

The way the Voice was talking about it, it sounded like it didn�ft completely approve of that sort of thing.

�gBut it�fs fine as long as we don�ft ask Titans, right? If it�fs about new schools of magic, don�ft we have
people like Mister Picorio we can count on?�h (Ellie)

�gPicorio, is it? �c Maybe, but I wouldn�ft get my hopes up. Elves are really stingy with their magical
research.�h (Kira)

Not that it matters anyway. Only Elves can use Life Magic after all.

�gWell, we�fre in no rush, right? I�fm sure Kira will come up with something brilliant like always.�h (Ellie)
�gAw, that�fs sweet of you to say.�h (Kira)

{So then you�fre seriously going for Titanhood after all?}

�gLike I said, maybe. I still need to see the terms of this contract the Voice mentioned. But until then, we should
take this seriously. I wouldn�ft want to regret half-assing something monumental like that for the rest of time.�h
(Kira)

�gBesides, Aura will want a family of her own one day. We must be sure she is fully equipped to protect them even
if we�fre not here.�h (Ellie)

{Can she even do that? Have children of her own?}

�gAh�c�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm sure she can. That Voice said something about how being able to reproduce was necessary to qualify as
kin, right? Aura qualifies, therefore she must be capable of it.�h (Kira)

And it must not be the traditional way either. After all, she has none of the parts for that. Maybe she will split into
multiple people like Skittles? Well, only time will tell. I�fm just glad our little girl won�ft be denied the joys of
motherhood.

{I see. Ah, speaking of the little lady, it�fs about time for you to prepare her breakfast.}

Right. We really should get out of bed and get dressed. Aura will probably just fall asleep after I breastfeed her
though. She doesn�ft seem to be much of a morning person. Then again, maybe that�fs just how Archon babies
are.

***

�gGood morning, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

Ariel greets us the instant we come into the dining room, like always. She�fs wearing that maid-like uniform with a
bright smile. Did something good happen?

�gHey Ariel.�h (Ellie)

�gMorning. Are the girls still sleeping?�h (Kira)

�gNo, Mistress. They already ate and left for the Academy with Fluffles.�h (Ariel)

�gOh right. The Academy.�h (Kira)

They had that Basic Arithmetic class today. It feels a bit lonely whenever they leave early like this, but at least they
come back looking like they had fun. I don�ft see how they could enjoy that stuff, though. It�fs so dull that simply
doing my taxes is enough to bore me to death. I�fm honestly glad Nano can do those calculations instantly,
otherwise the Ministry of Progress might be in big trouble.

We sit around the table as Ariel starts serving us breakfast. I hate to admit it, but she�fs been getting really good at
this servant stuff lately. Did she get pointers from the King�fs maids? Or maybe the baron�fs? Her smooth and
delicate movements would make you doubt she�fs actually a Rank A adventurer. Not to mention the [Yellow
Sage].

Huh? Wait, wasn�ft she the perfect person to ask about this Gaze of Magnus?

�gAriel. I need to ask you something.�h (Kira)

�gYes! This one will do her best to answer, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gCould you quit with the kneeling? It�fs awkward.�h (Kira)

Not to mention my neck hurts from having to physically look down on her so much.

�gAt once, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

And she immediately falls to the ground. I could swear there was an audible thud when her forehead hit the wooden
floor. Prostrating herself like that is even worse, though!

�gJust sit down next to me!�h (Kira)

�gB-But Mistress! This one would not-�h (Ariel)

�gIt�fs an order! Now! Worthless perverted canary! Why do I even bother speaking to you?! It�fs a bloody
mystery!�h (Kira)

�gHnnnng! Yes! As the Mistress commands! Haah.�h (Ariel)

Finally! I swear she does some of these things on purpose until I start screaming at her! It�fs a good thing the kids
aren�ft here! Also, I think a bit of Kelly came out that time�c

�gLook. This is a serious question. Let�fs say you had to create a completely new school of magic.�h (Kira)

I should have realized it sooner, but Ariel was raised in a completely different culture from us. Her attitude towards
magic differs from my own, so it�fs possible her perspective might give me some insight.

�gWhere would you start?�h (Kira)

She blinks her golden eyes a few times. Then crosses her arms and furrows her brow in thought. It seems there�fs
some part of her rotten brain that�fs still functioning properly. After about a minute, she snaps out of it and bows
her head.

�gThis one apologizes Mistress. This one has no idea.�h (Ariel)

�gHave you never thought of making your own spells?�h (Kira)

�gThis one is not as wise as Mistress. Such things like creating original magic is way beyond this simple one�fs
abilities.�h (Ariel)

�gI see�c�h (Kira)

It was a dud after all, huh? Well, it�fs not like someone could come up with a new idea on the spot, even if you
asked them.

�gAriel, what was the strangest magic-related thing that happened to you? Before we met, that is.�h (Ellie)

Oh! Nice thinking Ellie! Since we�fre trying to do the pinnacle of absurdity, then looking into other weird events
might provide some clue! Was that last bit really necessary though? Well, at least enjoy my pancakes while Ellie
takes over!

�gThat would undoubtedly be that slime-bucket�fs Ring of Domination, Mistress. It felt like this one was trapped
inside her own body, which moved independently of this one�fs will. It was a... grueling experience.�h (Ariel)

�gDidn�ft you do something similar to the other Sages, though?�h (Ellie)

�gNo, Mistress. The Song of Compulsion tricks them into thinking someone of the highest authority is giving them
orders. It is closer to manipulating their perceptions and twisting their will.�h (Ariel)

Such a vile magic. Just thinking about it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Still, I can�ft deny it has its uses. Ariel
sometimes subdues bandits with it and makes them surrender peacefully, even if it does take some time to kick in
properly. Ah, I shouldn�ft think about those guys right now. It�fll spoil the taste of my breakfast!

�gAnd how�fs that different from that old fart�fs doing?�h (Ellie)

�gThis one was fully conscious and aware of everything that was happening. This one�fs mind struggled, but the
body refused to listen. It felt like there was a thin layer of mana stuck inside my skull and directing it in my
place.�h (Ariel)

�gHmm�c What about other strange things that happened?�h (Ellie)

�gProbably when Kelly released an Elder Dragon by hitting it with a few glass beads. That was particularly
weird.�h (Ariel)

�gHm? Kira, does [Impact] have an element?�h (Ellie)

Ellie looks at me quizzically. I�fm sure we already went over this though. I take a moment to swallow before
answering her sudden question.

�gNope. It�fs just raw mana that hasn�ft been attuned to a specific element. Otherwise it wouldn�ft be able to
affect all of your spells.�h (Kira)

�gCouldn�ft we focus on something like that?�h (Ellie)

�gLike what?�h (Kira)

�gOn raw unattuned magic?�h (Ellie)

�gThere�fs already a Neutral Magic school though. Admittedly it only has a few spells like [Impact] and [Blink]
, but it does exist.�h (Kira)

�gRight�c Of course it wouldn�ft be that easy�c Come to think of it, is there any school of magic that Kira
can�ft do?�h (Ellie)

�gPlenty. I can�ft do Ariel�fs Songs, for example. Or the elves�f Life Magic. I can�ft overcome my human
limits you know.�h (Kira)

�gBut isn�ft that exactly what that Voice said we needed to do?�h (Ellie)

�gWell yeah, but it was being a bit melodramatic in the process.�h (Kira)

{Kira. Have you ever actually tried learning the magic of other races?}

�gDon�ft be silly Nano. Why would I waste my time with that? It�fs obviously impossible.�h (Kira)

{But you can use Barrier Magic.}

�gSo? That�fs just part of being human. It�fs Enuri�fs gift towards his kin. Of course humanity can use it.�h
(Kira)

{Are you sure you�fre one of Enuri�fs kin though?}

�g... What are you trying to say, Nano?�h (Kira)

{The way I see it, these �egifts�f of magic are something like a birthright. You were not born on this world, so
how come you can use it? And what about Ellie? She can use it as well, yes?}

�gYeah! Only it�fs not so great without [Unity]...�h (Ellie)

{But she can use it. Both her body and her soul are vastly different from the rest of humanity on this world, but she
still has access to this supposedly human-only magical discipline. I�fll ask again, Kira. Have you ever actually
tried learning the magic of other races?}

�g... No. No I have not. You think I should?�h (Kira)

{Indeed. I think you can use Barrier Magic not because you were born with it, but because someone taught you
about it. So if someone taught you, say, Life Magic, then would you be able to use that? And then what would
happen if you learned all of the magic left behind by other Titans? Wouldn�ft you be able to discern some clues as
to what exactly you need to do?}

�gNano�c Are you sure you�fre not omnipotent after all?�h (Kira)

{Haha, I�fm pretty sure that�fs not it. I just have a lot of free time on my hands. Ah, but-}

�gBut Nano doesn�ft have hands.�h (Ellie)

{Please don�ft steal my jokes, Ellie.}

�gSorry, Nano.�h (Ellie)

Right! It�fs worth a shot!

�gAriel! Did you hear everything so far?�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress! This incompetent one is unable to grasp the reasons, but Mistress wishes to learn the song of this
one�fs people, correct?�h (Ariel)

�gNow this is a surprise! I guess your head isn�ft just for show after all, huh?�h (Kira)

�gNn! Thank you, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gSo. Can you teach me?�h (Kira)

�gT-this one apologizes Mistress, but it is impossible. Mistress does not possess the Second Voice that all Avians
are born with.�h (Ariel)

�g... Second Voice?�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress. Allow me to demonstrate.�h (Ariel)

She opens her mouth and�c nothing comes out? I feel the faint presence of mana coming from her, but that�fs it.
A few seconds later she stops whatever it was she was doing.

�g... Is it over?�h (Ellie)

�gHuh? Ellie what�fs wrong? Why are you clutching your cat ears like that?�h (Kira)

�gI�fm fine. Ariel�fs voice just now was a bit loud, that�fs all.�h (Ellie)

�gIt was? I didn�ft hear anything though.�h (Kira)

{Ah I see. It�fs so high pitched that humans can�ft hear it.}
What? That can happen?

�gMaster Nano is correct. Not all species can hear the Second Voice of an Avian, but that�fs besides the point.
Without a Second Voice, it is impossible to imbue one�fs First Voice with magic.�h (Ariel)

I see, so it�fs like that. I can�ft just magically grow myself a second voice box so I guess I�fll need to give up on
that.

�gThen, shall we go see Mister Picorio after all?�h (Ellie)

�gSure. I guess we�fll have to.�h (Kira)

I just hope he�fs willing to help out. If I can at least do a Basic-tier spell from the school of Life Magic, then
perhaps it would mean I can study others as well. Come to think of it, not only dwarves can use Golems, right?
It�fs just that dwarves are far better at it. I�fll have Kelly teach me when she�fs done playing with Stompy.

What about the Mountain Giants? I�fll need to ask the Grandmaster for some help with those. I�fm not even sure
what magic his people can do that others can�ft. They don�ft come into the cities very often, after all.

As for cat-folk, I believe their specialty was Shadow Magic. I�fll have to visit the Magic Academy and check if
that old codger Morose is still around. He may have retired though - he was really getting on in years. If not then I
can just put in a request for a cat-folk mage with the guild. Tutoring commissions are a bit uncommon, but they do
exist, so that shouldn�ft be a problem.

The Mermen�c I have no clue. Never even seen one. If they�fre really at the bottom of the ocean then that�fs
going to be difficult. Perhaps the Grandmaster has some ideas? There should be at least some of them on dry land
working as adventurers, right? I mean we did see a real-live salamander so that�fs not too much of a stretch.

Speaking of Yuri, I really don�ft want to barge in on her life. Not unless I really have to. I�fll leave her for last. It
may not even be necessary to go that far - it�fs entirely possible I may not need to learn the magical ways of her
kind. Or I can just send Ellie in to question her a bit. Or better yet I�fll just go right over to that scumbag Emperor
of hers and slap him around a bit, make him spit out what he knows! I�fve been wanting to cut loose on someone
who deserves it! Ah, Ellie was right! Just thinking about it somehow makes me feel better!

Anyway, I think that�fs all of them, right? Ack! Skittles! I almost forgot! She�fs technically her own kin, right?
But she�fs also a titan. Hmm. Asking her for help would definitely count as cheating. Well, I�fm in no rush so
I�fll leave her as a last resort.

Oh right, I should give her the Voice�fs message at least. Guess I will need to visit the Capital sooner than I
thought.
Chapter 138 - The social side of attending school is often more important
than the actual education - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

�gThanks for the ride, Fluffles!�h (Lara)

I unbuckle myself and get off from Fluffles�fs back. Flying like this takes a bit longer than that using that magic
door, but at least we don�ft have to bother Ariel or our Moms to come and open it! Now where did-

�gSophie! Come down from there!�h (Lara)

She�fs doing it again! She�fs burrowing herself inside Fluffles�fs soft neck feathers! I know the early morning
air is chilly and that it�fs super warm and cozy in there, but we�fll be late for class!

�gNuuuu! I want to stay right here!�h (Sophie)

�gDon�ft dig yourself in deeper! Fluffles, do something about this!�h (Lara)

�gKra? Kwaak!�h (Fluffles)

He cranes his neck around and picks up Sophie with his beak. He lifts her up by holding onto her coat.

�gNoooooo!�h (Sophie)

She flails her arms and legs, but she�fs completely helpless like this. Honestly, you can�ft tell which one�fs the
parent and which one�fs the child...

�gSophie! Please! You know Nano will punish us with baby food for dinner if we�fre late to his class again!�h
(Lara)

Did she forget what happened last week?! If Mom didn�ft interfere we would definitely have been fed that
dangerous-looking green stuff! We got lucky that time, but Nano was completely serious!

�gI�c forgot�c�h (Sophie)

Sophie�fs face turns sour and she stops struggling instantly. As I thought. I think I�fd much rather be spanked
than have to even smell that foul stuff!

�gThen move! We only have a few minutes left! You can put her down now, Fluffles!�h (Lara)

He sets her down gently. Sophie straightens up her coat and we start half-running towards the RGA building. I turn
around and wave back to Fluffles.

�gThanks again! We�fll see you at noon, okay?!�h (Lara)

He nods at us and flies up into the air. After gaining some altitude, he shoots off somewhere. Probably to find
breakfast. He and Puff need to hunt for their own meals, after all. I kind of miss feeding them when they were young
though...

Well, they seem to enjoy it and they get rid of dangerous monsters in the process. Not to mention Mom says feeding
those two can get quite expensive otherwise. All of those are very good reasons so I have to put up with it for now.
Well, it�fs probably fine if I sneak him some leftover bones or something. He really likes crunching those.

I turn my attention to the rear entrance of the RGA building. At first Fluffles dropped us off directly at the front
door, but it seemed to cause trouble for others. So now we land somewhere in the back yard where we can get off or
climb on his back in peace. Plus, walking along fresh snow and feeling it creak slightly under my footsteps is kinda
fun! You don�ft get to enjoy that if you go in through the front!

We enter the Academy and go up to the second floor, third door on the right. Inside are nine small desks arranged in
a three-by-three grid. Well, only nine kids signed up for this class so that�fs pretty much as expected.

�gYo Lara, Sophie.�h (Billy)

I hear Billy�fs cheerful voice as he waves at us from his seat. How is this guy always so bright this early in the
morning? Maybe it�fs an elf thing? Like how he looks like he�fs 7 or 8 when he�fs actually 14. Or so he says
anyway.

�gMorning, Billy.�h (Lara)

�gHey! You know my name is Bollofrantos! Say it properly!�h (Billy)

Yeah right. As if I�fm going to say something that long every day! Besides, Billy fits him!

�gGood day, Billy.�h (Sophie)

Sophie thinks so too!

�gYou too, Sophie! Also I really wish you should stop saying that!�h (Billy)

�gHuh? Saying what?�h (Sophie)

�gIt�fs still morning so shouldn�ft you be saying �egood morning?�f That�fs just common sense!�h (Billy)

�gMommy said that wishing someone a �egood day�f is like a good luck charm, so I�fm saying it.�h (Sophie)

�gHah, right. As if that religious stuff actually has any merit to it!�h (Billy)

Ah, here we go again. This guy seems determined to prove that the Churches of Enuri and Khamis are �enothing
but scams to leech the money off common citizens.�f If it wasn�ft for that odd fixation of his I think we might be
good friends. After all Ariel and grandpa both work for the Church and they�fre super nice. I don�ft see what his
problem is.

�gBesides it�fs not like-�h (Billy)

�gMister Bollofrantos.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gAck!�h (Billy)

Nano�fs golem in the corner suddenly springs to life. Rather than have it go in and out of the room all the time, it
just sort of lives here.

�gNeed I remind you such discussions do not belong in this classroom?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gN-no, sir.�h (Billy)

�gVery good. Come now, children, take your seats. We will be starting soon.�h (Nano/Butler)

I scramble to my seat in the middle of the front row. Sophie�fs on my left by the window and Billy�fs on my right
by the door. Honestly, this room is a bit too wide for just nine kids, but I can�ft complain. At least the air doesn�ft
get stuffy like in those Basic Alchemy classes! Entirely too many people attended those!
�gNow then, today we will be continuing our study of multiplication.�h (Nano/Butler)

Nano turns around towards the blackboard on the wall. His arm flies all over the place and a few seconds later, half
of it is already filled with math problems. Geh, he�fs not holding back today either! But I won�ft back down! This
stuff is necessary to make sure I don�ft mess up when it comes to big transactions in the future!

Preparation is vital, after all!

***

�gVery good. We�fre done for today. Class dismissed.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gHaah, I thought I was gonna die!�h (Joseph)

The ginger-haired Joseph behind me speaks up. That guy always says stuff like that. Well, it�fs not like I can�ft
understand what he means. Even my motivation was starting to suffer towards the end!

�gReally? From maths? Your head�fs as bad as ever. Why are you even here in the first place?�h (Janet)

�gAw come on, sis! You know I can�ft leave you here alone! I have to protect you from any creepy guys that try
to pick you up! I�fm still your big brother!�h (Joseph)

�gYeah, by about 5 minutes. What�fs the point in an elder brother like that?�h (Janet)

Ah, the twins are at it again. Still, I think I need to speak up here. I turn around and give Janet a stern look.

�gBeing an older brother is an important job!�h (Lara)

�gNo it�fs not! It just gives him an excuse to boss me around and get in my business!�h (Janet)

�gThat�fs exactly what he should be doing! Little sisters just don�ft know any better!�h (Lara)

�gBig sis, you�fre yelling again�c�h (Sophie)

�gWhatever. What do you know? You only have a fake family anyway!�h (Janet)

�gOh yeah? Well, you smell!�h (Lara)

�gI do not smell!�h (Janet)

�gUhm sis, she has a point. The last time we bathed was- Ow!�h (Joseph)

She threw her notebook at his face! Is that any way for a 13-year old to behave?! Wait, does she actually smell? I
thought we were trading insults that made no sense!

�gStay out of this, stupid!�h (Janet)

No, I�fm pretty sure he�fs kind of important to this conversation. Hmm? Oh!

�gHey Mom!�h (Lara)

�gMommy!�h (Sophie)

�gGood day, girls.�h (Ellie)

�gWAAAAH!�h (Rest of class)

Why are they freaking out? She came to pick us up like always, right?
�gShe just appeared! Why?! How?! There was nothing in that corner a second ago!�h (Janet)

�gSo cool!�h (Joseph)

�gAah! I thought my heart was gonna stop!�h (Billy)

Oh, they mean that whole �ehide-and-seek�f thing Mom does. It�fs no big deal, it�fs not like she�fs going to
hurt us.

�gI�fm just dropping by to check on you two. Your mother and I have to take care of some errands so we�fll be
busy until dinner, okay?�h (Ellie)

�gOkay!�h (Sophie and Lara)

�gHere�fs some money for lunch and a snack.�h (Ellie)

I take the small coin purse and put away in the bag on my shoulder, right next to mine and Sophie�fs notebooks.

�gNow then. Who is it that dared to call my family fake?!�h (Ellie)

Uh-oh. I think someone might end up getting hurt after all!

�gIt�fs okay Mom, she didn�ft mean it! Besides I called her smelly so we�fre even okay?!�h (Lara)

�gNot good enough!�h (Ellie)

Crap! I need to calm her down! If she did that �esnap-gyaa�f thing to my friends I don�ft think they�fll come
near me or Sophie ever again!

***

�gHmm, what do you think?�h (Lara)

�gUuuu, I�fm not sure. Maybe just some pancakes?�h (Sophie)

�gThat�fs a bit dull though. I have an odd craving for chocolate right now, to be honest.�h (Lara)

�gThe Apocalypse or the Alamein?�h (Sophie)

�gApocalypse.�h (Lara)

Alamein is good too, but the thought of saying �enuts�f for the whole day is kind of embarrassing.

�gBig sis! I know! Let�fs have some of those honey cupcakes! Then when we get tired, we can nap until Mommy
gets home!�h (Sophie)

�gOhh! Not a bad idea!�h (Lara)

�gWhat are you two doing?�h (Joseph)

I turn my head to the twins that are walking next to us.

�gStrategizing.�h (Lara)

�gYeah! Startergizing.�h (Sophie)

�gHuh? But it�fs just cake, right?�h (Joseph)

�gYou�fve never been to Zublos�fs shop before, have you?�h (Lara)

Proper planning is required to fully enjoy it. Otherwise you�fll ruin your day.

�gNo�c Dad says things like cakes are too expensive�c�h (Joseph)

�gIs that so? Well, today�fs our treat so don�ft hold back and order as much as you want, okay?!�h (Lara)

It�fs my way of saying sorry for Mom treating Janet like that. At least she didn�ft break anything and only
dangled Janet by her feet for a few minutes. I wonder if that was really a punishment though? Mom�fs air rides are
really fun after all!

�gYou got it!�h (Joseph)

�gAh, how is your sister doing, by the way?�h (Lara)

�gJan?�h (Joseph)

�gUrk! I�fll be okay�c I don�ft think I can eat any of that cake though�c�h (Janet)

She�fs still walking around after throwing up so hard, though. I think that�fs pretty amazing in its own way.
She�fll definitely need a bath later, though.

�gYou can just bring it home in a little paper box and eat it later.�h (Lara)

�gOh! That�fll be a big help! Isn�ft that great, sis?�h (Joseph)

�gUgh�c If you say so�c�h (Janet)

�gAh she�fll be fine. How far away is this place though?�h (Joseph)

�gShould be there soon. Like three minutes more. Five tops!�h (Lara)

�gOkay�c Say, about your mom, is it true she single handedly broke a mountain in two?�h (Joseph)

�gWhat? Of course not! Where�fd you hear that sort of thing?!�h (Lara)

�gMy dad heard it from some dwarf woman in a bar.�h (Joseph)

�gAh, that probably came from Aunt Kelly. You really can�ft take anything she says too seriously. She gets a bit,
uh, creative when she�fs drinking.�h (Lara)

�gR-really? So it wasn�ft true?�h (Joseph)

�gCome on Joseph. A single person splitting open a mountain? There�fs no way that can be true if you think
about it, right?�h (Janet)

�gYou do have a point there. I just thought...�h (Joseph)

�gYeah, Janet�fs right. It took both of them working together to do that.�h (Lara)

�g... what?�h (Janet)

�gWell yeah. That mountain was really really big, there�fs no way only one of them could break it like that.�h
(Lara)

Besides, they had to hurry and squash that big bug thing.
�gHahaha! That�fs amazing! Say, can I meet your other mom too?! And get both their autographs?!�h (Joseph)

�gYou can�ft be serious! That absurd story was true after all?!�h (Janet)

�gIs it really that strange?�h (Lara)

�gOf course it is! Something like a mountain- That�fs impossible, right?!�h (Janet)

�gIt might be if it was someone else. But since it was those Moms of mine anything can happen.�h (Lara)

Janet�fs wide eyes snap onto her brother�fs head.

�gYou can�ft tell me you seriously believe this!�h (Janet)

�gWhy wouldn�ft I? I mean we�fre talking about people who raised a gryphon just to make sure their kids are
safe, right? I don�ft think that�fs a sign of someone who knows restraint.�h (Joseph)

�g... Good point. Come to think of it, they live in this city after all, huh?�h (Janet)

�gRight?! Trying to point out everything weird in Runetap would probably take years!�h (Joseph)

�gBig bro Joseph, you�fre not from around here?�h (Sophie)

�gNah. We moved here just before Autumn. We�fre still getting used to the place.�h (Joseph)

I see, newcomers huh?

�gWait, did you guys check your chairs and pantry when Winter started?�h (Lara)

�gHuh?�h (Joseph)

�gLiving furniture and mimics tend to sneak into houses during the 13th month. They�fll pretend to be part of the
room and eat up all your food when you�fre not looking.�h (Lara)

We found five of those buggers in total after Autumn passed. One of them even disguised itself as a cookie jar
without me realizing it! It ate like 10 of grandpa�fs cookies before I noticed it!

�g... That�fs a thing that happens?�h (Janet)

�gI see, that actually makes sense. It would certainly explain why that chair in my room is never where I left it.�h
(Janet)

�gStab it with a fork when you get back. If it screams, your house is definitely infested.�h (Lara)

�gOh! And ask the City Guard officers for help! They�fre super kind so they�fll show you how to deal with
those things!�h (Sophie)

Nice one, Sophie! I almost forgot about that.

�gThis city really is crazy! I just can�ft handle it anymore!�h (Janet)

�gYou�fll get used to it eventually.�h (Lara)

�gEasy for you to say! I haven�ft lived here all my life like you two!�h (Janet)

�gWe haven�ft either though. We�fve only been here for like�c ten months?�h (Lara)

�gI�fm not like you though! Honestly! How you two can cope with all this strange stuff is beyond me!�h (Janet)
Ah, looks like she�fs losing it. I better make sure I order some pancakes for her so she can mellow out a bit.

�gSay big sis, isn�ft that Cloudburst Festival is coming up soon?�h (Sophie)

�gOh! That�fs right!�h (Lara)

�gThere�fs a festival?! Is it any fun!?�h (Joseph)

�gWe missed it last year, so I can�ft really say.�h (Lara)

Festivals are supposed to be fun by default though.

�gAh, that�fs too bad. You know, our old village has a Harvest Festival towards the end of every Summer. It was
seriously good fun!�h (Joseph)

�gOh! Is there like lots of pie and sweets and stuff?!�h (Lara)

�gYou know it! Almost everyone there�fs a farmer and they�fre all pretty competitive. They bring out their best
stuff during the Festival and hold competitions and stuff! I won the pig-wrestling one last time!�h (Joseph)

�gWow, that does sound pretty fun. I just hope this one doesn�ft disappoint!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! Come to think of it though, why is this Cloudburst festival called that?�h (Joseph)

�gBecause the city floats up into the sky. It�fs quite literal.�h (Lara)

�gNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! I WANNA GO HOOOOOOME!�h (Janet)

�c

I understand you�fre shocked, but you didn�ft have to run away like your life depended on it. You�fll miss out
on snack time with that sort of attitude!
Chapter 139 - Tight deadlines can be stressful things, but loose ones can
be just as bad - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gKiressara. Ellie.�h (Picorio)

�gGood day, Picorio.�h (Kira and Ellie)

�gAh, you two have been unifying again, haven�ft you?�h (Picorio)

�gYou can tell?�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs rather obvious once you�fve seen it a few times.�h (Picorio)

Hmm�c Come to think of it, the side effects do seem a bit stronger. The crushing loneliness of the separation goes
away just the same, but it looks like Ellie and I are still in sync to some degree. Well, we�fre pretty much always in
sync anyway so it�fs not a big deal.

�gI assume you have something important to talk about. Please, come inside.�h (Picorio)

�gThank you.�h (Kira and Ellie)

Picorio guides us into his house. It looks like a massive tree stump with a door and windows. I thought he was
kidding when he said he grew it himself, but it looks like I underestimated him. Not just the house. The doors, the
furniture, the decor - it all looks like trees and plants that have grown into unnatural shapes. It�fs not bad though.
Gives the place a rather soothing atmosphere.

Maybe I should hire him to do some construction work for the Ministry?

No, let�fs not. I doubt he�fd agree to that anyway. He doesn�ft care about anything other than Alchemy these
days. I heard he even quit his adventuring team so he could focus on his potions and salves. He probably only takes
two or three Rank B commissions a month just to keep his Rank A privileges. Well, our team is more or less like
that as well these days.

�gPlease, have a seat.�h (Picorio)

We sit down on some armchair-shaped trees. I don�ft know what these cushions are filled with, but they�fre quite
comfortable. Not quite as good as Nano�fs stuff though.

�gNow, what brings you here?�h (Picorio)

�gDid you know I�fm from another world?�h (Kira)

�g... I do now. And?�h (Picorio)

He barely even flinched. Should I say, as expected?

�gWell, due to some circumstances, I�fve decided to work towards creating an entirely new discipline of
magic.�h (Kira)

He leans back in his chair and puts a hand on his chin.

�gHmm. I see. An admirable goal. And how does that relate to me?�h (Picorio)
�gThe thing is that, even though I have a destination, I don�ft really have a starting point. After consulting with
friends and family, I�fve decided to begin by expanding on my magical knowledge.�h (Kira)

Picorio�fs calmly smiling face turned serious in an instant. I think he�fs guessed why we�fre here.

�gI cannot teach you Life Magic, Kiressara.�h (Picorio)

I can�ft say I�fm surprised at his prompt refusal, but there�fs more to it.

�gCan you at least hear me out?�h (Kira)

�gAlright.�h (Picorio)

�gYou are aware that only humans can use Barrier Magic, yes?�h (Kira)

He nods.

�gBut at the same time, I�fm not a human of this world, yet I can still use it. Because I was taught the theory and
concepts behind it and was shown how to put them into practise. It is not unthinkable that the same might be
possible for me to be able to use magic that humans normally are incapable of.�h (Kira)

�gI see. It is a reasonable conclusion, but I�fm afraid Life Magic is still impossible for you. Even if you are a
human from another world, you are not an elf.�h (Picorio)

Wait, isn�ft this situation similar to what Ariel was telling me this morning?

�gIs it some sort of physical limitation?�h (Kira)

�gIndeed. To imbue something that is alive with magic and bend it to your will is not a simple task. More
traditional schools demand you pour your mana into a focusing tool and then mould it into a spell, before invoking it
with a chant.�h (Picorio)

Right, that�fs basic magical theory. Every spell I know is like that, more or less. Even Ariel�fs Vocal Magic
seems to follow this rule, only in her case the focusing tool is the secondary voice box in her throat.

�gWith Life Magic, the focusing tool in question is your target. A living being with its own magical signature.�h
(Picorio)

�gIs that how it is? But wouldn�ft your mana just dissipate instantly if you did that?�h (Kira)

It�fs like pouring oil into water. They�fre both liquids, yet they don�ft mix together at all. Even if you stir them
up they would just separate immediately.

�gIt does. Your mana will disperse the instant you stop focusing on releasing it. To successfully use Life Magic,
you have to be able to simultaneously pour and mould your mana. A task that is impossible unless you�fre an elf.
We can think about three completely different things simultaneously. Can you, as a human, do something like that?
�h (Picorio)

�gI can, actually.�h (Kira)

�g... Huh?�h (Picorio)

�gYou saw me use [Thought Echo] during that Elder Dragon incident, right? Did you not find it odd that I was
able to dual-cast like that?�h (Kira)

At the time I used my primary thoughts to cast spells with my staff while the secondary one did the same with the
my gauntlet.
�gHmm. Indeed, there was such a thing.�h (Picorio)

He closes his eyes and crosses his arms in thought. After a while he opens them back up and looks at me with a
curious expression.

�gHaving only two thought lines ought to be enough, but it should definitely be possible.�h (Picorio)

�gThen, you�fll teach me?!�h (Kira)

�gNo. I have neither the time nor the intent of teaching others about magic.�h (Picorio)

�c

Well, I can�ft say that was unexpected.

�gMy old master, however, is another story. I will send him a letter with your request. I am confident he will not
hesitate to contact you.�h (Picorio)

�gOh. Oh! I see, that�fs very kind of you, Picorio! I owe you big time for this!�h (Kira)

�gPlease, Kiressara. You owe me nothing. I am merely paying back the favor from last year. I shudder to think
what might have happened if it wasn�ft for your assistance with the Court Wizard matter.�h (Picorio)

Hmm, he really doesn�ft need to go that far.

�gI can at least thank you, right?�h (Kira)

He smiles back at me.

�gYou are welcome, Kiressara. Now, is there anything else I can do for you?�h (Picorio)

{Ellie, ask him about the thing.}

�gAh! Actually-�h (Ellie)

Ellie spoke up suddenly and reaches into one of the pouches on her belt. She�fs been awfully quiet today, more so
than usual. Then again, she�fs more interested in magical application rather than theory.

She brings out a small metal rod with a pointy bit on one end and a button on the other. Isn�ft that one of Nano�fs
stimpacks? No, it actually looks to be empty. Oh! Right! That thing Nano talked about at the start of the year!

�gNano and I were wondering if you could apply healing potions with this.�h (Ellie)

Picorio takes the syringe and carefully looks it over.

�gHmm�c This is?�h (Picorio)

�gThe pointy part penetrates the skin. You can then press on the back to force the potion directly into the body.�h
(Ellie)

�gInteresting. If applied directly to the injured area it might prove more effective than simply drinking it. However,
traditional potions have a certain amount of pulp and residue that might clog such a tiny opening. Hmmm�c I�fll
have to get back to you on this one.�h (Picorio)

{Tell him about Zublos.}

�gAh, be sure to ask Zublos for help if you need it.�h (Ellie)
�gThe proprietor of that cake shop? Come to think of it, I�fd heard his recipes include alchemical reagents, but I
hate sweet things so I never went. Will he cooperate willingly?�h (Picorio)

�gHe�fs still part of our team. He won�ft refuse an order from me. Since I�fm the leader!�h (Ellie)

Picorio looks at me questioningly.

�gFufu, Ellie�fs taken over leadership of [Black Flame], you know.�h (Kira)

A huge smile surfaces on my face whenever I say that. The way she handled herself and others while I was
bedridden was excellent. I don�ft think I would have been able to stay that calm if something happened to her. Not
to mention she was able to keep a straight face around Yuri. I dare say she�fs now a finer adventurer than I ever
was! She�fs become so reliable that I can hardly contain myself! Nothing less from my loving, passionate and
beautiful wifey ~?!

Ah, I shouldn�ft forget to mention something!

�g*Ahem* Also, the Ministry of Progress will be sponsoring this little project. Just send us an invoice for any
justifiable expenses and we�fll take care of it.�h (Kira)

�gHmm, I see. You intend to make the results of this research public. Very well, Kiressara. There is one thing that
money can�ft really buy, though.�h (Picorio)

�gOh?�h (Kira)

�gTest subjects. Developing a new potion requires a significant amount of trial and error so I will need to carry out
frequent experiments to verify its effectiveness. And there�fs only one way to test a healing potion.�h (Picorio)

�g... I think- No, I�fm positive we can help you with that as well.�h (Kira)

�gReally? You know someone who�fd willingly suffer repeated injury?�h (Picorio)

�gOh yeah.�h (Kira)

A job where she has to constantly get beaten up is probably a dream come true for that perverted canary. She can
even heal herself with magic if things get out of hand.

In fact, I dare say she�fs actually overqualified for this.

***

We leave Picorio�fs house after confirming several details. It looks like it�fll take at least a month and a half to
get a response to our request, but at least it�fs a start. As for the potion research, there really is no way to tell just
yet.

�gWhat now, Kira?�h (Ellie)

�gI guess we need to visit the Magic Academy in the capital. Nano, how long until you�fre done working on the
tower?�h (Kira)

{Four more days should do it. We�fll be good to fly after that.}

�gAnd you�fre sure it will work even though the top will be exposed?�h (Kira)

{It will. Maybe not as good as it could be, but a noticeable improvement to be sure. Magic may be weird, but at least
it�fs consistent in its weirdness.}
�gIf you say so.�h (Kira)

Covering the entire underside of the flying island with Titansteel plating feels like overkill. I still have some doubts
whether it will really make the [Flight] spell inside the dirt more efficient. Nano says wrapping it in Titansteel is a
sure fire way of keeping the mana from seeping out over time. It�fs the key principle behind how the Mana Engine
works, but the scale still worries me.

At least we won�ft be running out of that metal anytime soon. Those guys over in Ecebis have been digging it out
at a rather terrifying speed. It�fs like no matter how much we ask for they always seem to have more of it! I can�ft
complain at the discounts they�fre giving us. Although I doubt they�fre really �ediscounts�f considering the
Ministry of Progress is the only entity that�fs currently buying it.

They�fll eventually run out of it though. I should look into exactly how it�fs formed. Since there�fs so much of
it directly beneath where Draglael had been standing for centuries, it�fs undoubtedly somehow related to her. She
won�ft tell me anything about it though. Either she doesn�ft know or there�fs some strings attached.

I just hope it�fs not titan poop or something stupid like that. Ew. Oh my- That�fs entirely possible! If she has a
steel body, doesn�ft that mean she�fll poop steel as well!? AAAARGH! I�fve been cooking our food with
utensils made out of Titan dung!

�gKira, was that really okay?�h (Ellie)

�gNo! It�fs definitely not okay! We have to find out whether it�fs poop or not right away!�h (Kira)

�g... What?�h (Ellie)

�gAck! *Cough* Sorry Ellie. I got carried away thinking about something. Please forget what I just said.�h (Kira)

�gOkay! Nano?�h (Ellie)

{You got it. Just give me a sec�c There, done.}

...

�gWhat, was it really that easy?!�h (Kira)

�gWas what easy?�h (Ellie)

�gI mean you- no, never mind.�h (Kira)

I�fm actually a bit jealous. I wish I could instantly forget I just screamed the word �epoop�f at the top of my
lungs...

�gSo what were you talking about?�h (Kira)

�gUhm.. Oh right! Is it really okay if you can only use Life Magic during [Unity]? Didn�ft that Voice say that
spell didn�ft count?�h (Ellie)

�gNah, it should be okay. I�fm only going to use that spell to analyze the magic itself. We�fre after the
knowledge and theory behind it.�h (Kira)

I don�ft even need to practice it too much, just get a good feel for it. After all, magic is something based on vague
things like feelings and imagination. You can blab all you want about theory and mana and such, but unless you
have first-hand experience it�fll be impossible to properly grip the concept.

That�fs why some mages simply can�ft use certain elements when casting spells. They�fre just unable to
�efeel�f it right. That�fs why it takes oddballs like me, Picorio and Ariel to qualify as Sages. Although even if
we can use all the elements, we still have our own preferences and predispositions. I mean, using Wind Magic is
possible for me, but Ariel is just way better at it.

�gI see, I see. So rather than a limitation, our spell is a tool to help Kira get better.�h (Ellie)

Ellie nods understandingly to herself. I just give her a small smile. I wonder, just how good a mage would she be if
she had formal training? She soaks up everything I say like a sponge, but I wonder if I�fm qualified to properly
educate others on the matter�c

{Incidentally, have you considered studying the healing magic at churches?}

�gI have, but it takes many years of training to harness the power of the sun or moons. Also a lot of knowledge of
the human body if you want to properly help it heal.�h (Kira)

{I think you should look into it at some point.}

�gMaybe. Like I said it takes a long time. Decades in some cases. Ariel�fs been a cloistered sister pretty much her
whole life, you know?�h (Kira)

Besides, I�fm not convinced it�fll help us. It�fs a school of magic pretty much any mage can learn if given
enough time.

{I just hope you make up your mind within the next 15 years, 3 months, 15 days, 7 hours and 43 minutes.}

�c

That was oddly specific. Also he seems unnaturally pushy today.

�gWhat�fs this really about, Nano?�h (Kira)

{You said that the Church of Khamis used the power of the two moons to cleanse curses and heal wounds, right?}

Well, I know that�fs vague, but it�fs pretty much all I know about it. Both churches keep their magical practices
quite confidential, after all.

�gRight. What about it?�h (Kira)

{Well, you might miss your chance if you wait around too long.}

�gWhat?�h (Kira)

{I�fve been studying images of the night sky from the past 14 months. I imagine the positions of the moons are
somehow relevant to how much magical power the Priests of Khamis can really exert. So I�fve been tracking and
analyzing their orbits.}

I see, that�fs very much a possibility. Ariel�fs healing magic does seem to wane somewhat during the night, now
that I think about it.

{And after running some simulations, I found out the two moons will crash into each other precisely 15 years, 3
months, 15 days, 7 hours and 41 minutes from now.}

�g... WHAT?!�h (Kira)

{Just thought I�fd let you know. Wouldn�ft want you to miss your chance at learning that magic, after all.}
Chapter 140 - There's no such thing as ever-lasting memory. Even video
tapes and history books will degrade with time. - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Kira PoV <

�gNano! This is serious! Isn�ft this super serious?!�h (Kira)

How can Nano just nonchalantly declare something ridiculous like the moons crashing into each other?!

�gAnd you�fre absolutely sure it�fs going to happen?�h (Kira)

{Without a doubt.}

�gHow?!�h (Kira)

Ellie suddenly embraces me from behind. She wraps her hands around my waist and holds me tight.

�gKira, calm down. It�fs not going to happen tomorrow. We have plenty of time to prepare.�h (Ellie)

�gBut! That!�h (Kira)

�gBesides, it�fs not the end of the world, right? So what if a moon or two disappear?�h (Ellie)

�c

�gSay Nano, what will happen when the moons crash into each other?�h (Kira)

{Hard to say. I don�ft have enough data to make that sort of call. Most likely they�fll crumble apart and some
debris will rain down on us.}

�gThat�c is that bad?�h (Kira)

{You are aware the moons are really big, right?}

�gHow big?�h (Kira)

{One has a diameter that�fs about as wide as the distance from here to Ecebis. The smaller one is roughly two
thirds of that.}

I cannot even fathom how humongous that is!

�gThen these debris�c wouldn�ft they be as big as mountains?!�h (Kira)

{Possibly.}

�gThen how exactly is this not the end of the world?!�h (Kira)

I flail around a bit in panic, but Ellie holds me back!

�gNano! You�fre not helping!�h (Ellie)

�gCome to think of it, how come you�fre so calm about this?!�h (Kira)

{Ah, if worst comes to worst I have a contingency.}

�gDamn it Nano!�h (Kira)

Every time! First comes some outrageous revelation and then a declaration that Nano has an answer for it! Does that
invisible peeper seriously enjoy watching me panic for no good reason?!

�gYou really should have said that sooner!�h (Kira)

{You�fre not going to like it though.}

�gWhy not?�h (Kira)

{So remember how I said some of the things we brought over could destroy the world?}

Nano was right. I already don�ft like where this is going.

{I�fm just going to use one of those to blow the smaller moon into dust before they crash.}

�gYou have something that can do that?�h (Kira)

{I do.}

�gAnd�c where exactly have you been keeping this world-endingly dangerous thing?�h (Kira)

{...}

�gIt�fs under the house, isn�ft it?�h (Kira)

{Yes.}

I let out a sigh. I should�fve known. Oh yes, I�fm sure all precautions are being taken so it doesn�ft go off by
accident. But that doesn�ft really help me sleep at night.

�gNano. If I become a Titan, I am going to force your sorry butt into a living body just so that I can punch you 500
times in the face.�h (Kira)

{Uhm�c I�fll be looking forward to it, I guess?}

�gHmm, Nano? I have a question! How come the moons haven�ft crashed into each other until now?�h (Ellie)

{A very good question. I�fll need to run some calculations and get back to you on that.}

�gEllie?�h (Kira)

�gWell, moons basically spin around the planet, right? If they were going to crash, shouldn�ft it have happened
already?�h (Ellie)

�gHmm�c if you say it like that, then it is a bit suspect. By the way Ellie, how long are you going to keep fondling
my breasts like this?�h (Kira)

She�fs been doing it for the past minute or so.

�gI�fm not fondling. It�fs a special massage to help Kira relax.�h (Ellie)

�gCan you please stop? People in the street are staring at us.�h (Kira)

�gI don�ft mind!�h (Ellie)

Ah, this is bad. I forgot she was in heat this week! If she gets any more serious she might move onto the next stage
right here!

�gI�fll let you �emassage�f them all you want back home, okay? I�fm sure your efforts will be much more
effective without the clothes in the way, right ~??!�h (Kira)

�gHuhuhu�c Okay! I�fll hold you to that!�h (Ellie)

She stops kneading my chest from behind and moves her hands down to my waist. I can hear her purring slightly
while she rubs her face against my back. Well, intentional or not her antics did help me calm down a bit.

{Pardon for interrupting, but I have the results to Ellie�fs question.}

�gOh? Already?! As expected of Nano!�h (Ellie)

Huh? Was that really that fast? Then again, Nano�fs trying to peer into the far future and distant past by using
math, right? When I think of it that way, it is actually impressive it only took a few minutes to do so.

{So, by their current orbit, the moons should have already crashed into each about 11,603 years ago.}

�gI see. So it�fs something like that after all.�h (Ellie)

�gLike what?�h (Kira)

�gSomething changed their orbital path. And this happened relatively recently.�h (Ellie)

�gHow is that recent though?�h (Kira)

�gCompared to a planet that has been around for probably billions of years, 11 thousand is nothing.�h (Ellie)

�c

I just felt really insignificant for a moment there. That was not a pleasant feeling. Right, let�fs change gears and get
back to the topic at hand!

�gThen if I understood you two correctly, the moons are actually continent-sized globes of rock. They fly in circles
around our world, but they�fre so high up they�fre basically beyond the sky. And then you�fre telling me they
got knocked out of position?!�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs only a guess at this point, but more or less, yeah.�h (Ellie)

{I agree. It�fs a very likely scenario.}

I see. Something absurd and unimaginable happened at some point in the last eleven-thousand-and-a-half years.

�gTitans?�h (Kira)

�gTitans.�h (Ellie)

{Titans.}

As expected, huh?

�gCan things like that actually happen though?�h (Kira)

I mean they can move mountains and create oceans and whatnot, but even I�fm having trouble believing they can
reach that far. I mean, don�ft they have to be next to the thing they�fre trying to mess with? Why would they even
mess with the moons to begin with?!
{Orbits are really complicated things. The two moons circling around this world are part of a surprisingly delicate
system. It�fs not impossible that something would knock it out of balance, but it wouldn�ft be easy either.}

�gWhy not?�h (Kira)

{It�fs the scale, mostly. Normally I�fd say it�fs impossible for people on the surface of a world to affect the
moons like that. Admitting that is like saying a colony of ants can topple a mountain.}

�gOnly these particular ants happen to have vast magical powers.�h (Ellie)

{Precisely. I don�ft believe it was done on purpose either. Something like extensive terraforming can, in theory,
lead to a shift in a planet�fs gravitational field and ever so slightly alter the orbit of their moons.}

�gTurnip farming? What?�h (Kira)

{Oh, right. Terraforming is the process through which someone, or something, makes large-scale changes to a
planet�fs surface in order to make it more hospitable. Things like creating a new continent, introducing large
quantities of foreign metals into the ground or messing around with the sun are all possible culprits.}

�gThen it�fs all because of those titans after all?�h (Kira)

{That seems to be the most likely answer.}

�gWell, either that or this Calling they keep talking about is trying to pull something.�h (Ellie)

�gHmm�c Maybe we should try contacting that Voice?�h (Kira)

�gThink it�fll believe us, though?�h (Ellie)

�gAh, good point. It didn�ft seem to trust Nano at all. Still, it�fs worth giving that a shot. If not, we�fll have to
go ask Skittles.�h (Kira)

***

�gMrs and Mrs Quasse, so good to see you!�h (King Fred)

The King greets us in his study with that usual goofy expression.

�gHey, Fred.�h (Ellie)

�gGood day, Your Majesty. Forgive us for the abrupt visit.�h (Kira)

�gNonsense, you know how much I enjoy your visits! Come now, have a seat.�h (King Fred)

He motions to the two chairs on the opposite side of the desk he�fs sitting at. Well, we won�ft be staying here
long, but it would be rude to decline. Ellie and I take our seats.

�gHow did you get here, though? I don�ft recall my guards notifying me of your flying home being seen
overhead.�h (King Fred)

�gThat�fs because it�fs still back at Runetap, Your Majesty. We�fre only visiting here briefly so we rode our
gryphon, Puff.�h (Kira)

�g... Oh.�h (King Fred)

Why do you suddenly look so disappointed?! It�fs not like we�fre going to arrive on some ridiculous flying ship!
The flying machine prototype Nano and Kelly made is still in its very experimental stages you know!
�gThen, to what do I owe the pleasure?�h (King Fred)

�gWe�fre here to speak with Skittles, Your Majesty.�h (Kira)

Forget believing us, we couldn�ft even get in touch with that Voice! We used [Unity] and everything, but just
calling out for it inside our heads wasn�ft enough. So we came to the capital to get the opinion of the most reliable
titan we knew - Skittles. But she wasn�ft in the guest room that she normally occupies and none of the guards or
servants seem to know who she even is.

�gHowever, we can�ft seem to find her.�h (Kira)

�gI�fm sorry, but who might this Skittles be?�h (King Fred)

�c

�gYour Majesty surely jests. It�fs the titan we introduced you to.�h (Kira)

The King�fs face doesn�ft look good. It�fs the same dubious face he made just after we told him about my
pregnancy.

I have a bad feeling about this.

�gForgive me the sudden question, but does Your Majesty remember our meeting after the two of us returned from
up north earlier this year? The one we had to take after I collapsed during the tournament?�h (Kira)

�gOf course! You dropped some unbelievable news about the two of you conceiving a child together! There�fs no
way I can possibly forget that!�h (King Fred)

�gAnd does Your Majesty remember what happened next?�h (Kira)

�gI had to take a few days to properly process this news and its implications, so I put off on hearing your
outlandish explanations until a later date.�h (King Fred)

�g... Anything else?�h (Kira)

�gHmm�c Ah, I seem to recall the windows in the throne room got broken, but that�fs about it.�h (King Fred)

�gYou mean you don�ft remember meeting the half-spider half-woman who introduced herself as Second Magus
of the Order of the Eye?�h (Kira)

The King�fs eyes widened in surprise for an instant before his face became stern again.

�gHow do you know about that person?! Her existence is supposed to be a secret within my family!�h (King
Fred)

Geh, he suddenly yelled at us with his full blown king mode! I can never get used to that! I throw a worried glance
at Ellie, but she just returns it with a shake of her head. Doesn�ft seem like he�fs trying to pull a prank. He
legitimately doesn�ft remember meeting Skittles!

Ellie then stands up from her chair and motions for me to sit still. Looks like she wants to take charge of the
conversation. Well, she is the leader, so I�fll let her deal with this�c situation.

�gFred, the one who told us all about that person was you. It was the same day we told you about Kira�fs
pregnancy.�h (Ellie)

�gI did no such thing!�h (King Fred)

�gAre you certain? Are you absolutely sure beyond the shadow of a doubt? �h (Ellie)

She puts her arms behind her back and starts pacing left and right in front of the desk while she questions the king.

�g... Huh? That�fs odd. I feel like something like that did take place, but I don�ft remember the actual
conversation�c�h (King Fred)

�gRemember the stained glass window. How did it break?�h (Ellie)

The King seems to calm down a bit and furrows his brow. Looks like he�fs picked up on the oddity as well.

�gI don�ft know. I should know, though. I distinctly remember signing off on the paperwork to repair it, but
oddly enough I can�ft recall the actual event where it broke. I�fm sure I was in that throne room the entire day
too. Something like a window shattering into pieces in my presence would be definitely be a thing I remember. Yet
looking back on it now it now I just can�ft seem to recall anything but a weird haze�c�h (King Fred)

�gLet�fs leave that day behind for a moment. Do you remember anyone staying in the eastern wing�fs guest
room?�h (Ellie)

�gNo. That room has been vacant ever since the Ecebis Embassy was established late last year.�h (King Fred)

�gYet didn�ft the servants and cooks complain about being unable to keep up with the demands of the person
staying there about two weeks ago?�h (Ellie)

Hm? I don�ft recall the King actually saying anything about it though. Did Ellie pluck that from his head? Well,
having that gluttonous Green one around is bound to cause an impact on the castle�fs stock of ingredients.
Memories are one thing, but physical evidence is another entirely.

�gYou�fre right, something like that did happen. Ellie, do you have any idea what�fs going on?�h (King Fred)

�gI do, Fred. Your memory�fs been altered. Not just yours, everyone in the castle seemed to have received the
same treatment.�h (Ellie)

�gThat�fs�c a highly concerning notion. One I believe to be right. Thinking back on it now, there are other
inexplicable gaps in my memory. You say you introduced me to this �eSecond Magus�f that day, yes? Was this
her doing?�h (King Fred)

�gMost likely.�h (Ellie)

A spell to tamper with memories doesn�ft exist. But Skittles told us that memories are etched on the soul. And
since she�fs able to manipulate souls, it stands to reason that she would be the culprit, right?

�gBut why? And how come the two of you are unaffected?�h (King Fred)

�gWorry not, Fred! I have every intention of beating the answers to those questions out of her!�h (Ellie)

�gI see. That sounds reliable. But tell me, do you have a way of tracking this person down?�h (King Fred)

�gNo. But we know someone who does.�h (Ellie)

Looks like we�fll be heading back to Ecebis after all, huh?

Chapter 141 - Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. Three times is
a pattern. - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

Ah�c Back here again. The Magic Academy. I wonder why every time I see this huge building I get nostalgic for
some reason? Perhaps some part of me did find this place fun after all? No, that�fs not quite right. I suppose it�fs
just that I owe this place a lot, even if the students were horrible to me. Good or bad, I�fm not going to forget those
meaningful 5 years I spent here, even if I could. There�fs a good chance that, without them, I wouldn�ft be where
I am today.

And there�fs nowhere else I�fd rather be ~?!

�gKira, you�fre making that face again.�h (Ellie)

�gHmm? What face?�h (Kira)

�gThe �eI�fm so happy I met Ellie�f face.�h (Ellie)

�gI make a face like that?�h (Kira)

�gOh yeah. It�fs something like this.�h (Ellie)

She pulls down her mask and shows me a wide, loose smile with her mouth slightly open and positively sparkling
eyes. And wait, is that drool? I wipe my lower lip and yes, I was actually drooling a bit. Well, that was
embarrassing. A grown woman drooling over someone like that is disgraceful! Ah, but can anyone really blame me?

�gFocus, Kira! Let�fs do what we came here to do so we can go back home already!�h (Ellie)

�gOh right.�h (Kira)

I change gears and put my memory to work.

�gLet�fs see�c Old Forenheim�fs office should be on the third floor of the west wing. This way.�h (Kira)

I lead Ellie inside the building through the grand double doors. We turn right immediately and walk off towards our
destination. At least this building was always easy to find your way around. It�fs basically four grand hallways put
together in a square shape with a huge open space in the middle of it. That place is usually reserved for ceremonies
and recreation rather than magic practice though.

Also, all of the rooms are also always on the side facing outwards, so it�fs really difficult to get lost here, unlike
the royal palace. I swear, if it wasn�ft for Nano�fs flawless navigation I don�ft think we�fd ever make our way
out of that maze of hallways and corridors! Well, not without breaking some walls, that is!

We reach one of the corners of the building and head up the staircase there, up to the third out of five floors. After
some more walking we�fre standing in front of a door with a small sign on the wall next to it. It reads �eAlzack
Forenheim.�f

I take a deep breath and steel myself. That guy was always strict, so dropping in unannounced like this is bound to
make him mad. Well, that and I did break his Treant Heartwood staff back in the day and he�fs never quite
forgiven me for that. However, I came prepared should that topic arise!

*Knock Knock*

�gYes?�h (Forenheim)
Oh good, he�fs in. Well, that guy hates afternoon classes so there�fs no way he�fd be anywhere else right now. I
open the door to the cramped office and walk inside. I turn to greet the instructor sitting behind the desk in the
corner of the room.

�gGood day, Mister Forenheim.�h (Kira)

The elderly cat-folk mage looks at me. His fur has gotten significantly grayer, hasn�ft it? If he were a human, I�fd
expect him to have a long, tidy beard. But cat-folk don�ft grow beards so that part�fs pretty impossible after all.
He looks at me with those piercing lime-green eyes. Seems they have not lost even a bit of vigor in the few years
since I last saw them.

�gQuasse. Good day.�h (Forenheim)

He raised the corner of his mouth, briefly baring his slightly pointed teeth almost like a sneer. That�fs the same
face he made every time he looked at me back in the day. He gives Ellie that same look when she comes in after me.

�gThen this must be-�h (Forenheim)

�gHello! I�fm Ellie, Kira�fs wife!�h (Ellie)

�gI know who you are, girl! I doubt think there�fs anyone left in this blasted city who doesn�ft by now.�h
(Forenheim)

He points towards his right. Seems he�fs cut out that the newspaper article about us from the beginning of the year
and put it up on the wall. Was it really necessary to frame it, though?

�gSo what do you want? Make it quick, I have work to do.�h (Forenheim)

�gNo, you don�ft. You just want us out of here because we disturbed your nap.�h (Kira)

�g... Right, almost forgot who I was dealing with.�h (Forenheim)

�gI�fm here because I require your aid.�h (Kira)

�gThat so? And what can this old bag of bones do that the infamous [Red Sage] is incapable of?�h (Forenheim)

And there it is, that jealousy of his. He always disliked me for being able to use a wider range of magic than he did.
More potent, too.

�gI need you to tutor me.�h (Kira)

�gHah. Hahahahaha!�h (Forenheim)

He broke into a dry, almost mocking laugh. I glance at Ellie who�fs on my side, but she just dreamily stares at my
face. Doesn�ft seem like his attitude has crossed her breaking point. Arm-breaking point, that is.

�gOh wow, that was funny. Haaah. Now why are you really here?�h (Forenheim)

�gI�fm serious. Due to some circumstances I wish to try studying the Shadow Magic that only cat-folk are known
to possess.�h (Kira)

�gYou do realize you sound crazy right now, right?�h (Forenheim)

�gProbably. But I�fm still asking you. Not for free, of course.�h (Kira)

�gBah, I don�ft need your money!�h (Forenheim)

�gNo, but you wouldn�ft mind a new office, right? Maybe one with an attractive secretary to keep people out?�h
(Kira)

I�fve built up some connections in the past six months that should allow me to do that without ruffling too many
people�fs feathers.

�g... Alright, I�fm listening.�h (Forenheim)

�gI need you to teach me Shadow Magic.�h (Kira)

�gOh wow! Okay. Did not expect that one. You do realize impossible things are impossible, right?�h (Forenheim)

�gBecause I�fm human, yes?�h (Kira)

�gExactly.�h (Forenheim)

�gCan you be more specific? What is it that humans lack?�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs right, you�fve never seen me perform Shadow Magic, have you?�h (Forenheim)

�gIndeed, I have not.�h (Kira)

�gHere, allow me to demonstrate.�h (Forenheim)

He stands up from his desk and walks around so he�fs standing in front of us. He grabs a staff that was leaning
against the wall and starts casting a spell.

�g------ [Cloak of Shadows]�h (Forenheim)

His grey fur turns rapidly turns black and a thick, dark smog starts oozing out of it. His faint shadow, caused by the
indirect light pouring in through the window, instantly becomes thicker and more distinctive. It�fs so well defined
it almost looks like there�fs a spotlight behind him. It�fs a bit creepy.

�g--- [Dark Tendril]�h (Forenheim)

An octopus-like limb wriggles up from his shadow. It looks like it�fs made out of an unidentifiable black mass, just
like Khamis. It wriggles about and wraps itself around a chair leg, pulling it slightly to the side. The whole situation
has graduated from �ea bit creepy�f to �eplenty creepy.�f Satisfied with the expression on my face, Forenheim
releases the spell, causing his fur and his shadow to revert to normal.

�gUnderstand now?�h (Forenheim)

�g... It�fs the fur, isn�ft it?�h (Kira)

�gIndeed. Shadow Magic demands one cut off their skin from all light. Without fur like us cat-folk to absorb it
completely, it becomes impossible to manipulate the darkness like that.�h (Forenheim)

I see. So it was a biological limit after all.

�gThere�fs more to it, though. Humans are naturally predisposed to embrace the warmth of the sun. Think about
it - when you use your Barriers, what�fs the image you�fre using to conjure them?�h (Forenheim)

�gYou mean how we have to focus on making the light around us solid?�h (Kira)

�gYes, quite right. But do you know why it is only humans can do that? It�fs because you have eyes that are
naturally attuned to that. Us cat-folk have eyes that love the dark, so it�fs impossible for us. Dwarves on the other
hand have skin that responds really well to minerals and metals, which is why making them move around as golems
comes naturally to them.�h (Forenheim)

He�fs right. Our Barrier Magic instructor did have us stare intently at his barriers. �eBurn this image into your
eyelids�f is what he said at the time. I thought he was just being melodramatic, but I guess he meant that pretty
much literally.

�gHow do you know all this, though?�h (Kira)

�gEvery mage worth his salt has tried to do what you�fre doing right now, Quasse. And like me, they�fve all
given up on chasing after the impossible.�h (Forenheim)

�gThen, do you know about the magic of other races? Like Mountain Giants or Mermen?�h (Kira)

�gMermen, huh? I�fve never met them so no, but I did consult with an old Mountain Giant adventurer back in the
day. In their case, it�fs something called Stasis Magic. Essentially it�fs about freezing their target still. It can�ft
move or take any action, but you can�ft inflict any damage to it, either. It�fs a flexible magic that can be used to
control the battlefield quite well.�h (Forenheim)

�gLet me guess, it has something to do with their habit of dozing off all the time?�h (Kira)

�gI�fm not sure if that�fs related. From what I was told their magic stems from the secondary hearts they have
on the right side of their chests. Ah, their blood is precious to their culture so whatever you do don�ft make any
them bleed, okay? Even if it�fs by accident! Trust me, you do not want to see an enraged Mountain Giant!�h
(Forenheim)

�g... Noted. Guess I�fll have to give up on that. Thank you very much for your help, mister Forenheim.�h (Kira)

�gAh�c I guess that office and secretary are out of the question?�h (Forenheim)

�gObviously.�h (Kira)

�gHeheh. That�fs fine. I got to see you realize you�fre not as all-knowing as you thought you were. That�fs
good enough for me! Now get out and let me sleep- I mean, work!�h (Forenheim)

We say our goodbyes and leave the elderly mage to do as he pleases. Ellie speaks up to me on the way out of the
building.

�gIt was exactly like Kira said, that was amazing!�h (Ellie)

�gYes, well, I thought it might be something like this ever since Ariel told us about her second voice. I think I
understand now, we�fve been going about this whole Gaze of Magnus thing in completely the wrong direction.�h
(Kira)

�gWrong? How?�h (Ellie)

�gThink about it. Avians have a second voice. Elves have multiple streams of thought. Cat-folk have fur. Mountain
Giants have a second heart. Humans have special eyes. Dwarves have a unique feel for rocks and metal.�h (Kira)

I pause and consider the ones we have little-to-no information about.

�gAs for the others, Mermen-only magic probably has something to do with scales or gills. Salamanders like Yuri
have that magical tail flame so that�fs probably the source of that magical explosion.�h (Kira)

Well, that or those glowing runes. Either way it�fs definitely connected to her tail. Ellie said it seemed to turn
brighter when she invoked her magic against the cyclops, so it�fs clearly suspicious.

�gThe [Unity] and [Thought Echo] spells may help me cheat a bit with the elven Life Magic, but that�fs
definitely the exception.�h (Kira)

Even then it only remains as a possibility rather than a sure thing.

�gIn short, each race has magic that is part of what they are. It truly was arrogant of us to assume it would be
something as simple as �ewe weren�ft taught how to do it.�f The magic that we teach to Aura will have to stem
from who she is.�h (Kira)

�gBut�c can we really do that?�h (Ellie)

�gI think we can. As long as we figure out what it is that sets her apart.�h (Kira)

�gSo�c everything?�h (Ellie)

�gYeah, it�fs hard to narrow it down. She�fs completely unlike the two of us, after all. I�fm sure we�fll figure
it out once she�fs able to express herself properly though.�h (Kira)

We�fd have to wait until she grows up, but we�fre in no rush whatsoever.

�gWhat if she doesn�ft want to be a mage?�h (Ellie)

�gHmm? I don�ft see that as a problem. Surely at least one of her 399 siblings will want to be one, right ~??�h
(Kira)

�gHehehehe! Then we better get to work on that, yes?�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu, my thoughts exactly!�h (Kira)

{Kira, sorry to butt in while you�fre getting fired up, but I have a question.}

�gHm? What is it Nano?�h (Kira)

{I�fve been taking notes on your theories regarding this whole Gaze of Magnus thing. Do you really think you can
teach magic without being able to feel it for yourself?}

�gMmm, that�fs the challenge. Honestly I don�ft know if I can do it.�h (Kira)

I�fve never been one for teaching. Even when showing Ellie the basics of magic, she picked them up easily due to
her experience with that �eStar Magic.�f Well, that and sharing her mind with me.

{I think I see a way to practice that, at least. Perhaps have that Forenheim teach you what he knows and then work
with cat-folk students to see if you can pass it on successfully.}

�gOh! That�fs a good idea. I�fll have to look into it.�h (Kira)

{Ah, also you neglected to mention Skittles earlier.}

�gHuh? What do you mean?�h (Kira)

{When you were listing what unique traits each species used for their magic. You left out Skittles. I mean, I can
make a guess, but I�fd like to hear your thoughts on that.}

�gI don�ft follow.�h (Kira)

{Skittles is the first and last Arachne, yes? They�fre still one of the races that should have their own brand of
magic.}

�g... Ellie, do you know what Nano�fs talking about?�h (Kira)

�gNo idea.�h (Ellie)

{Did I say something strange?}

�gWell yeah. I mean for starters, what exactly is a Skittles?�h (Kira)

Chapter 142 - 'Keep your friends close and your enemies closer' is meant
to be taken figuratively, not literally - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Kira PoV <

�gThat is�c unsettling.�h (Kira)

Now I see why Nano asked us to wait until we got back to our tower to explain things. If I didn�ft see the images
projected on the wall with my own eyes, I probably wouldn�ft be able to accept it. A half-spider half-woman who
changes her shape and character completely. The one who healed me, my wife, and our baby. We owe that person so
much, yet I don�ft even remember her face!

�gWhat about the others?�h (Ellie)

Ellie is the same way!

{Kelly, Ariel, Lara, Sophie, even the gryphons don�ft seem to remember her either.}

�gI see. I�fd very much like to find this Skittles and have a chat with her about what it means to tamper with my
family�fs priceless memories!�h (Ellie)

�gWoah! Easy there, Ellie! That glint in your eye is more than a little scary!�h (Kira)

I�fm sure she�fs planning on finding out just how immortal that titan actually is!

{Incidentally, the last time had a �echat�f with her you ended up slicing off her arm and then reducing her to
what I can only describe as �emeat soup.�f}

�gReally?! That happened?! Show me the footage! I�fll need it for future reference!�h (Ellie)

�gUgh, I�fd rather not see that�c�h (Kira)

{If I may get us back on topic though, I think this memory business may simply be the way she is. I don�ft believe
it�fs the first time it�fs happened, either.}

�gWhat do you mean?�h (Ellie)

{Technically speaking, something like a giant spider-lady helping forge an entire Kingdom should have at least one
or two mentions in the history books rather than just some fairy tail contained to the royal family. And given how
she seemed to treasure memories it�fs highly probable it wasn�ft completely on purpose either.}

�gNot on purpose? Can you really wipe out the memory of an entire city by accident!?�h (Kira)

{Rather than an accident, it�fs probably something autonomous or subconscious. I mean, we�fre talking about a
being that�fs the embodiment of this planet�fs magic. Her mere presence has a certain degree influence on people
around her, so something like not leaving behind memories isn�ft too much of a logical leap. Also we�fve not
actually met two of her personalities, so it could simply be their doing.}

I furrow my brows and relax back in the chair. I don�ft like it. Something feels off. According to Nano�fs story
the only ones we haven�ft met are the embodiments of �eSloth�f and �eApathy.�f But if one is really lazy and
the other doesn�ft care, then would they take action like that?

Huh? Hold on a moment.

�gIs it really that big a deal, though? I mean, those titans are always doing weird, inexplicable things right? Is it
really that surprising she pulled something absurd and ran away?�h (Kira)

It wouldn�ft be too far of a stretch for one of her other personalities to run off somewhere in pursuit of their desires
if you think about it.

�gBesides, we�fre in no rush. We still have 15 years to figure out what to do with that moon. Let�fs just get to
Draglael and see if she can help us reach the Voice.�h (Kira)

Yeah, no rush at all. The more I think about it, the less urgent it seems to be.

{Hmm, I see. Actually, Kelly�fs side should reach Ecebis within 4 days. We can have her contact Draglael on our
behalf.}

�gWow, that fast?!�h (Kira)

{Stompy works really fast when it�fs about ploughing a straight line through terrain.}

�gUgh�c Yeah, I can definitely see that happening.�h (Kira)

Hopefully this railroad Nano has planned will make traveling to and from that place much quicker. That train of his
can already travel 5 to 6 times faster than our island. Reaching that hollow mountain in just under two days would
be entirely possible!

Well, they�fre only laying the groundwork right now. Putting the actual rails in place will still take a few months
according to Nano.

{Ah, you two might want to hear this.}

{�gYo Red, Ellie. Doing good?�h} (Kelly)

�gOh! Hey Kelly!�h (Ellie)

�gWe�fre fine, yes. What�fs going on?�h (Kira)

{�gSo Nano�fs been telling me about this titan we apparently all forgot. Soulforger, right?�h} (Kelly)

{Yes, that�fs the one.}

{�gI think the peeper�fs onto something. Darkhand lore about the Soulforger is pretty much non-existent. We at
least had an idea about the general location and shape of most titans, but that one I don�ft know anything about.
Just the name.�h} (Kelly)

�gI see. So even the Darkhand clan who were supposed to track down titans didn�ft unearth anything about her?
�h (Ellie)

{�gIt�fs more complicated than that. We don�ft have a single trace of her beyond her name. If what Nano says is
true and she automatically makes people forget her, then that would make a whole lot of sense to me.�h} (Kelly)

�gWait, if she�fs that secretive, then how did we track her down last time?�h (Kira)

{Draglael led us to her. She said titans can easily tell where others of their kind are.}

�gSo we just need to ask for her help, right?�h (Ellie)

{�gYeah, that�fs not gonna happen Ellie. We met up with a patrol from Ecebis. They came to investigate Stompy
since it was making quite a bit of racket. It was great! They nearly soiled themselves when I showed them the
weapons!�h} (Kelly)
�gFocus, Kelly!�h (Ellie)

{�gRight. So they told me Draglael went into the Depths under Ecebis awhile back. Something about �etitan
business.�f And Umph left the mountain a few months ago so there�fs no titans to be found there.�h} (Kelly)

�gSo if we want to contact one of them, then we have to do it the old fashioned way?�h (Ellie)

{�gYep. Your best bet is to look for Draglael in the Depths.�h} (Kelly)

�gWhy do I get the feeling those Depths are not a nice place?�h (Ellie)

{�gThey�fre not. Apparently the monster population down there has recovered somewhat ever since Draglael
woke up.�h} (Kelly)

�gIs that why she went down there? She won�ft get swallowed up by a giant death worm or something, right?�h
(Ellie)

{�gNah, probably not. She may be many things, but I don�ft think she�fd be stupid enough to take a nap like that
bird-brain.�h} (Kelly)

�gIt�fs entirely possible.�h (Kira)

�gI agree. Underestimating stupidity is not something I want to do.�h (Ellie)

{�gWell, do what you want. Though please leave me out of it, okay? I�fll pass on sticking my head into any more
titan business. Last time I did that, I lost an arm.�h} (Kelly)

{Technically the last time you did that you were up north and ended up having a good bit of fun along the way.}

{�gYeah, yeah if you say so, Nano. What I�fm trying to say is that we should just sod the whole thing. Those titans
are big boys and girls that have been through who knows what over the centuries. Surely they can take care of
themselves for a little while. Even if Draglael needs help she has an entire nation at her beck and call.�h} (Kelly)

She raises some very good points. I mean we do poke fun at them and call them incompetent, but surely if the world
itself thinks they�fre trustworthy then we really are in no position to question that.

{�gAnyway, I gotta go. I need to get me some sleep before we start early tomorrow.�h} (Kelly)

We say our goodbyes to Kelly and return back to the matter at hand. The question is simple.

�gWell then, my beautiful and fearless leader, what shall we do about those pesky titans?�h (Kira)

�gI think�c I agree with Kelly on this one.�h (Ellie)

�gSo we�fre going to ignore their sudden disappearances?�h (Kira)

�gSure. If the monsters around there suddenly increased then it�fs possible Draglael went to investigate the cause.
We�fd likely be sticking our noses in where they don�ft belong.�h (Ellie)

{Doesn�ft the timing strike you as being a bit off?}

�gA little, though it may simply be a coincidence. Besides, if we get rolled up in something stupid again then who
knows how long that�fll take to resolve!�h (Ellie)

�gYou sure you�fre not saying that just because you don�ft want to miss out on our honeymoon?�h (Kira)

Our one year anniversary is coming up in 4 days and we made plans to get away from everything for two weeks. We
got sidetracked last year and ended up not going on one, so Ellie�fs been really pushing for this one.

�gOf course not! Well, maybe a little.�h (Ellie)

�gAnd it has nothing to do with your dream of making sweet, passionate love outdoors, hmm?�h (Kira)

�g... Okay, you got me. But can you blame me? I really miss traveling with just the two of us. Sleeping under the
stars, bundling up in the same sleeping bag and generally just enjoying ourselves without a care. I really want to
relive those moments, even if just for a short while! The lovemaking is bound to be super romantic, too!�h (Ellie)

Ellie literally jumps up and down from excitement. I have to say, her enthusiasm is more than a little contagious.
It�fs getting me hyped up as well! And I do agree with her, I also sometimes long for those carefree days where we
didn�ft have any responsibilities! Ah�c but we do have those now.

�gI don�ft know, Ellie.�h (Kira)

The Ministry can take care of itself, but I�fm not at ease with the idea of leaving Sophie, Lara and Aura behind for
a couple of weeks. It�fs almost like I�fm about to abandon them in some way.

�g... Maybe we should take the girls along with us after all?�h (Kira)

�gKira, we talked about this. You can�ft keep smothering them or they�fll grow too dependant on us.�h (Ellie)

�gBut they�fre my kids! I should be able to cling onto them for the rest of their lives, right?!�h (Kira)

�gWow, okay. I think motherhood has leveled up your overbearingness.�h (Ellie)

{Kira, for what it�fs worth, I agree with Ellie. I think you�fve been getting a little stir crazy lately. A change of
scenery will do wonders for you, trust me on this.}

�g... You�fll take care of everything in our absence, right?�h (Kira)

{Of course. It�fs the least I could do.}

Well, I suppose if both of them are telling to go, they probably have a point. Sophie and Lara seemed to be
supportive of the idea as well.

�gCan we at least take Puff with us? You know, just in case?�h (Kira)

I want to be able to come back home the instant something happens! Even if it turns out to be nothing then I�fll at
least sleep easier at night knowing that!

�gHmm�c Okay, that seems fair. But you have to promise not to obsess so much over our kids and focus on
relaxing.�h (Ellie)

�gAlright, I promise.�h (Kira)

�gGood! Then it�fs decided! As Kelly put it, we�fll sod the titan thing and enjoy ourselves fully!�h (Ellie)

�gThen, where do you want to go first?�h (Kira)

�gKira in a swimsuit�c I mean, someplace with a beach and a lot of sun would be nice.�h (Ellie)

{Ellie, it�fs winter for the entire planet right now, remember?}

�gUgh! That�fs right, isn�ft it?!�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu, we could always go to a hot spring if you want to see me in a bikini that badly ~?!�h (Kira)
�gR-really?�h (Ellie)

In fact, I know the perfect place for that!

> Arthur/Zublos PoV <

Five, three, seven and�c nine! Ack that�fs two nines in the same column! Damn, I messed up! Now I have to start
over! What sort of twisted mind comes up with this overly complicated game?! Wait, why am I even stressing over
some pointless boxes on a piece of paper?!

I didn�ft even realize I was getting this worked up over nothing. How formidable. This Sudoku thing might just be
the most diabolical and devious puzzle I�fve ever seen! I shudder to think what sort of disturbed mind would come
up with something like this in the first place.

*Knock Knock*

�gHey honey! I mean, boss!�h (Lara A)

Lara pokes her head into my office wearing her trademark goofy grin. Yup, she�fs as adorable as ever.

�gYou have a visitor. Should I let them in?�h (Lara A)

I nod to her and put away the newspaper. She smiles and guides my visitor inside. Ah, that clean white face and
black butler suit can only be one person. Or should I say one thing?

�gGreetings, Zublos. Thank you, Lara.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gWill you two be fine without me? It�fs really busy today.�h (Lara A)

�gWe will be. I wish to speak to your boss in private to begin with. Adventurer business.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gAh, sure! Just call if you need me!�h (Lara A)

She closes the door and leaves us behind.

�gNow then Zublos. I trust you�fve been practicing with the slate I gave you?�h (Nano/Butler)

I nod and reach down to the lowest drawer on my desk. I open it and take out the device in question. It�fs a special
slate Nano gave me a few weeks ago. It�fs about the size of the newspaper though it is slightly thicker. One side is
covered in a shiny dark blue metal and the other, the �escreen�f as Nano called it, feels a lot like glass. I swipe my
hand over the glass bit and it springs to life with series of swirling blue and purple lights dancing inside it.

After some fiddling I bring up the series of boxes with letters on them. I then set it down on the desk and start
touching them to spell out what I want to say, then hit the the big box with the weird angled arrow symbol. A voice
very much resembling Nano�fs then comes out of it.

�gHello. Yes. I am still getting used to it.�h (TTS)

�gAh, very good. I am glad the Text-To-Speech device I gave you is of service.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gYes. It was of big hepl already.�h (TTS)

Oops. That always happens when I try to rush things.

�gI mean help.�h (TTS)

Doing it this way is painfully slow, but I can finally relay my intentions clearly and without causing
misunderstandings. Without it, anything I try to say or write just comes out through Zublos�fs loud words. Even
putting the letters in on this thing somehow makes them come out with all capitals despite my best intentions. But at
least it doesn�ft change the words themselves out from under me.

�gThis means a lot to me. Thank you again.�h (TTS)

I honestly wanted to cry for joy when I got this. Lara seems to dislike it, though. She says she�fd rather hear my
voice than some machine speaking for me. It�fs a complicated feeling since it�fs technically not my voice, but I
don�ft know how to even begin explaining that to her. I�fll have to do it at some point though.

�gYou�fre very welcome. Now then, excuse the sudden intrusion, but I�fm afraid I need your help with
something.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gWhat about Ellie and her wife?�h (TTS)

�gIt is something only you can handle. I�fm afraid it�fs rather urgent, as well.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gSomething those two can�ft deal with?�h (TTS)

�gYes. I am afraid it has something to do with you personally. Tell me, you remember Skittles, right?�h
(Nano/Butler)

�gOf course.�h (TTS)

�gDid you know you�fre the only one who does? Besides me, that is.�h (Nano/Butler)

�gThat�fs crazy.�h (TTS)

�gIs it really crazier than having a fragment of a titan attached to you?�h (Nano/Butler)

�c

�gHow did you know?�h (TTS)

The butler golem taps the right side of its head with a finger. Right around the area where the ear should be if it had
one. I mirror the gesture and feel the cuff on my own ear. This? They gave it to me and said it was for emergency
contact. Something about talking over great distances.

�gI didn�ft mean to intrude, but I overheard your conversation with her through that earpiece. Well, one side of it
at least.�h (Nano/Butler)

I get angry and snarl at him. Of course I�fll get upset when you poke your nose into my personal life like that!

�gI assure you it was completely accidental. Besides, it may give me an opportunity to right a horrible wrong.�h
(Nano/Butler)

�c

�gI�fm listening.�h (TTS)

The least I can do is hear it out. I�fve not spoken with Nano much, but I know this being never moves without
purpose. And that purpose always seems to be to serve its mistress in some way.

�gThank you for understanding. Truthfully, that piece of Skittles is what I need to speak with you about. I�fm
sure you�fre aware that every part of her represents some aspect of a whole personality.�h (Nano/Butler)

I nod. That much was made crystal clear during our trip back from that frozen wasteland she called a home.
�gTell me, do you know what Black is supposed to be?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gHatred.�h (TTS)

�gAnd what makes you say that?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gIt wants to kill and burn everything in its path.�h (TTS)

�gWould you say it wants to destroy the world?�h (Nano/Butler)

I�fve never really thought about it that way, but�c

�gYes. You can put it that way.�h (TTS)

�gAnd do you know why Black hates the world so much?�h (Nano/Butler)

�gDoes it matter?�h (TTS)

�gOf course. A titan is supposed to protect the world. Yet a piece of one wants to destroy it. Does this paradox not
strike you as odd?�h (Nano/Butler)

Hmm�c I�fve never thought about it that way. Then again, I haven�ft actually been able to meet with the source
of my whole situation until earlier this year. I turn my attention back to the device on my desk and start typing in my
response.

�gYou are right. However, I have no idea what the underlying cause is.�h (TTS)

�gBut I do.�h (Nano/Butler)

I raise an eyebrow at it.

�gHave you ever heard of the Voice of the World?�h (Nano/Butler)

GUAAHHHH!
I scream out in pain! What is this?! Suddenly my �ecompanion�f got extremely rowdy! It�fs struggling against
its restraints and making my head hurt like never before! It feels like it's about to split open from the pressure! I
clutch the sides of my head and grit my teeth, but it�fs not letting up! This is almost as bad as the first day I woke
up in Runetap! No, it�fs even worse! I can actually see the shackles on my wrists visibly vibrate under the strain!

�gI�fll take that as a yes.�h (Nano/Butler)

Chapter 143 - The things you like always seem to look better when
they're further away - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Lara PoV <

�gYou�fre sure you�fll be fine?�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

I know Mom doesn�ft want to just leave us because she loves us, but this goodbye has been dragging on for like 10
minutes now!

�gYou remember how to make Aura�fs food, right?�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

Again, are they sure that�fs actually food?! I probably shouldn�ft say this, but my littlest sister is super weird for
being able to eat that stuff!

�gAnd you know how to reach us if something happens?�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

Well yeah, that�fs why Nano is here...

�gDon�ft let the kids eat too many sweets. Even if they give you those big round eyes, you hear?!�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

Ack! She found us out! Sophie puts a hand up to her mouth and whispers to me.

�gBig sis-�h (Sophie)

�gI know.�h (Lara)

Usually the big eyes strategy works on Ariel, but with a direct order like that she won�ft budge! Thankfully, we
have more than one option to get snacks!

�gDon�ft worry, there�fs always grandpa!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! Good idea big sis!�h (Sophie)

�gHey you two! I can hear you whispering!�h (Ellie)

Geh! I keep forgetting Mom can hear a pin drop from the other side of the house!

�gHm? Oh, I see. Ariel, make sure Dad doesn�ft give them any cookies when he visits. I�fm counting on you!
�h (Kira)

�gYes, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gAnd do not, under any circumstances, allow Kelly�fs mother to enter the house! I don�ft care how much she
insists, she is not setting foot near my daughters!�h

�gYes, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

�gAh come on Red, she�fs not that bad!�h (Kelly)

�gYou ran away from her at full speed when Aura was born, did you not?�h (Kira)

�g... Okay, she really is that bad.�h (Kelly)

Uwah, that sounds scary! I guess there would be such a thing as a terrifying mom if you stopped to think about it.
Well, realistically speaking, it would be impossible for every mother to be as amazing as either of my moms! I
mean, they�fre both part of the number 1 adventuring team! Then there�fs that mountain, and the stuff with the
king, and they�fre good friends with those titan people!

�c Huh?

If you looked at it objectively, aren�ft our Moms the scariest of all?! But they�fre also amazing and warm and
kind, so it all balances out, right? Yeah, it�fs my loss if I mind it.

�gAnd Aura�fs food-�h (Kira)

�gKira, you�fve asked about that for the 5th time already. We should really get going before Puff falls asleep.�h
(Ellie)

�gKuak.�h (Puff)

�gAre you sure we can�ft-�h (Kira)

�gKira. We�fre leaving.�h (Ellie)

�gUuuu�c�h (Kira)

If she hates leaving us behind THAT much then why did they even bother planning this trip in the first place?! Poor
Puff has been standing there with all their luggage ready for like, forever!

�gJust go and have fun already, Mom!�h (Lara)

�gYeah! And bring us lots of souvenirs! Tasty ones!�h (Sophie)

�gDabuu!�h (Aura)

�gSee?! Even Aura�fs telling you we�fll be fine!�h (Lara)

�gAlright, alright. Come give your mommy a goodbye kiss then!�h (Kira)

She walks over to us and gives us all a wet peck on each of our foreheads!

�gEww!�h (Lara)

�gEehehe that tickles!�h (Sophie)

�gAh no fair! I want some too!�h (Ellie)

�gYou�fll get plenty of kisses later, Ellie.�h (Kira)

�gOh, right. Let�fs get to it then!�h (Ellie)

We share some more goodbyes and another round of kisses before they finally climb onto Puff�fs back and set off.
About time! Standing out in the yard like this was starting to get a bit boring!

�gAlright children, let�fs get back inside before you catch a cold.�h (Ariel)
�gOkay!�h (Sophie and Lara)

We walk back inside where it�fs nice and warm. I go in the living room and lay down on the carpet, next to the
open notebook filled with math problems. I pick up the pencil and start working on the homework Nano gave me.
Mathematics isn�ft really exciting, but Nano says it�fs necessary to achieve my new dream! Besides, it�fs kind
of fun when you stare at a math problem and it just sort of clicks into place!

Sophie went up to our room. I think she�fs going to continue drawing. Her pictures have been getting really good
lately. Both my Moms praise her whenever she makes one! I�fm so jealous! Well, that�fs why I�fm going to
study diligently now!

�gHey, kiddo.�h (Kelly)

Kelly walks into the room and sits down on the sofa near me.

�gSo. How you two been while I was away?�h (Kelly)

�gFine. We missed you a little bit, Aunty.�h (Lara)

�gWhat, just a little?�h (Kelly)

�gI mean, you�fre always off doing stuff so like�c we sort of got used to not having you around.�h (Lara)

�gAh�c is that so�c�h (Kelly)

�gHmm? What�fs wrong Auntie?�h (Lara)

�gIt�fs just�c I don�ft know when�fs the last time I spent some quality time with you kids.�h (Kelly)

�gYou mean like right now?�h (Lara)

�gNo! I mean yes! I don�ft know!�h (Kelly)

�gYou don�ft really need to spend time with us Aunty.�h (Lara)

�gYeah I know I don�ft need to. I want to though! Watching you two and your adorable expressions makes me
feel 15 years younger!�h (Kelly)

�gUhm, okay?�h (Lara)

�gOh, I know! How about we take Stompy out for a spin!?�h (Kelly)

�gREALLY?!�h (Lara)

I immediately spring to my feet!

�gSure, why not?�h (Kelly)

�gB-but Mom says I�fm not allowed inside Stompy�c�h (Lara)

�gShe�fs just being overprotective. Besides, your mom�fs not here is she?�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Lara)

�gIt�fs alright, I understand. If you don�ft want to ride the biggest, baddest golem ever created-�h (Kelly)

�gI want to! Let�fs go! Let�fs go right now!�h (Lara)

�gHahaha! That�fs my girl! Come on, put your coat on let�fs get him out of the basement!�h (Kelly)

�gCoat?�h (Lara)

�gWell yeah, it�fs cold outside.�h (Kelly)

�gUm, Aunty Kelly, why are we going outside?�h (Lara)

�gI told you, I�fm taking Stompy out of the basement.�h (Kelly)

But�c the basement is inside, right? Wait, come to think of it, there�fs no way Stompy would ever fit through the
door. I�fve also not actually seen Aunty take it in or out of the basement. Well, if Aunty says we�fre going
outside, then we�fre going outside! I quickly get dressed and hop around in anticipation while Aunty gets ready.

We head out the door and go over to the empty, flat part of the yard Mom normally uses for her dancing- er,
training.

�gOh relax Nano. If the thing�fs safe enough for me, it�fs safe enough for the kid.�h (Kelly)

Ugh, there we go again with the one-sided conversations�c Maybe getting one of those ear cuffs wouldn�ft be so
bad? Ah, but then Nano would know everything I�fm doing! That�fs kinda creepy!

�gCome on, Nano. You know full well it�fll be good for her. Get some perspective and whatnot. It�fll be good
motivation for her to study, too!�h (Kelly)

�c

Aunty, I know you�fre pulling those excuses out of your butt, but whatever you do, don�ft stop!

�gI know, I know�c Yes, I promise�c Nice! Thanks Nano, you�fre a pal!�h (Kelly)

*RRRRUMBLE*

Huh? The ground is shaking! Uwah! It�fs not just shaking it�fs splitting open! There was a huge metal thing
hidden under the flattened dirt and it�fs opening up like the jaws of some monster! Wait, don�ft tell me!

It is! That shining and oddly cute head that�fs just a huge ball with a visor and has no neck! Those broad shoulders
that are as big as a house! The big heavy-looking arms and ridiculously huge metal fists! The bulky Scrappy-like
torso! The four super-thick spider-ish legs that end in wheels instead of feet!

�gInitializing.�h (Stompy)

And the low metallic voice that makes it sound just as tough as it looks!

�gCommencing diagnostics. Reactor: Online. Servos: Online. Weaponry: Online. Kinetic Barriers: Online.�h
(Stompy)

I don�ft get it! I don�ft understand it, but I love it!

�gAll systems operational. Pilot biosignature recognized. Unit designation: Sealed Titansteel Overseer, Modular
Prototype, model Ymir. Awaiting input.�h (Stompy)

�gYYYYYYEAAAAAHEAAAAAAH!�h (Lara)

*THUD*

Ah, the ground is against my back.

�gHey Lara! What happened? Are you okay?!�h (Kelly)

�gI�fm fine, Aunty.�h (Lara)

�gYou sure? I mean you just sort of fell over...�h (Kelly)

�gYeah. I got so over-excited that I forgot how legs work.�h (Lara)

That was the first time I�fve actually seen Stompy that close! I�fve only ever seen and heard him from my
bedroom window like, two times! My heart is beating so fast it feels like it�fs trying to escape from my chest and
roll around on the ground too!

�gI just need a moment to catch my breath.�h (Lara)

�gWhat, that�fs all? Don�ft scare me like that, girl! Honestly, you�fre already 10 years old, you need to have
more composure!�h (Kelly)

�gBut Stompy�fs so freaking coooool! He�fs, like, a thousand times cooler than Scrappy!�h (Lara)

�gHeh. Well yeah, he is pretty awesome. Come on, kiddo!�h (Kelly)

She grabs me by the hand and pulls me up, then helps clean the snow off me.

�gSo, what now?�h (Lara)

�gAh, right. Stompy! We�fre coming in! Open access port!�h (Kelly)

�gAcknowledged.�h (Stompy)

*VRRRRR*

�gUhm, Aunty?�h (Lara)

�gI know, I know. Just�c roll with it.�h (Kelly)

***

Wow! The inside is so shiny! There�fs all sorts of glowing buttons and really comfortable looking chairs and a
bunch of weird lights! Well, it�fs not without downsides though. This �ecockpit�f place is a bit cramped and
there�fs only like, two passenger seats.

�gHuh? Aunty how do you see outside? There�fs no windows or anything�c�h (Lara)

�gHehehe, you�fll see! Just give me a second here.�h (Kelly)

She puts on some weird-looking white gloves. They have some weird red strings running down the fingers and
connect into the wall.

�gAlright. Stompy, activate visual feed!�h (Kelly)

�gAcknowledged.�h (Stompy)

Woah, the black wall in front of us lit up!

�gOh! It�fs the outside!�h (Lara)

It�fs almost like a window! Only, it�fs a painting? No, it�fs both!
�g---- [Golem Link]�h (Kelly)

Ohh! The red bits on the gloves started glowing!

�gHere, watch this!�h (Kelly)

She lifts her hand and Stompy�fs hand on the wall in front of us moves in exactly the same way! She then makes a
fist and swings a punch and Stompy does the same!

�gSo cool! Can I try?!�h (Lara)

�gNo can do. This machine isn�ft a plaything, you know.�h (Kelly)

�g... You�fre playing with it right now, though.�h (Lara)

�gWell, yeah, but I know what I�fm doing.�h (Kelly)

�g...�h (Lara)

�gWhat? I do!�h (Kelly)

�gUhm, Aunty? What�fs that?�h (Lara)

I point at the weird green thing on the screen. It looks like something�fs moving around and it�fs not one of the
trees.

�gHuh? Oh. Let�fs find out!�h (Kelly)

She makes some weird gestures with her fingers and the picture gets bigger! Woah!

�gOh, it�fs Lizzie! He must be back for a rematch!�h (Kelly)

�gLizzie?�h (Lara)

�gYeah, he�fs like the lizardman king or some such. He keeps challenging Stompy every time I take him out for a
stroll.�h (Kelly)

I mean he does look like a big crocodile that�fs walking around on two legs, but is that name really okay?

�gUmm�c How big is that thing?!�h (Lara)

I can�ft really tell since these moving pictures are weird.

�gA bit taller than Stompy. He�fs no match though. Come on, let�fs go say hi!�h (Kelly)

�gWait, what?!�h

***

�gAunty, next time you want to have a punch out with Lizzie, please leave me out of it.�h (Lara)

�gHuh? It�fs fun though isn�ft it?�h (Kelly)

�gNo it�fs not! It was way too scary! The bad kind of scary!�h (Lara)

Those moving picture sare way too realistic! I almost felt like those big teeth would actually bite us in half! I mean I
know Kelly said there�fs no way they�fd puncture Stompy�fs armor, but that didn�ft mean she had to actually
test it like that!
�gHahaha, well, I think you could do with a little excitement every now and then!�h (Kelly)

�gThat�fs way too much excitement! I thought I was gonna die a few times there!�h (Lara)

�gEh, you kids are far too spoiled. When I was 10 years old I was already hunting wolves!�h (Kelly)

�gNo, no, no, no! You�fre clearly the strange one here, aren�ft you?!�h (Lara)

If that�fs how Kelly�fs mom raised her there�fs no wonder my Mom doesn�ft want her anywhere near us! I
was kind of curious why before, but it�fs crystal clear now!

�gYou said you wanted to be more like me though?�h (Kelly)

�gI meant as a reliable person and an engineer! Not as some dummy that gets in stupid fights for no reason!�h
(Lara)

�gAnd that�fs why these parts are important. I bet you�fd think twice before challenging a king lizardman now!
�h (Kelly)

�gI was never going to challenge it in the first place!�h (Lara)

�gOh. Yeah, probably not.�h (Kelly)

�gAnd while I�fm glad you won, shouldn�ft you have killed that thing?! Won�ft it be super dangerous if it gets
close to the city?!�h (Lara)

�gKid, that lizard may be a lot of things, but he�fs not stupid. What do you think would happen if he got
anywhere near a place like Runetap?�h (Kelly)

�gOh. Yeah...�h (Lara)

I almost forgot where exactly we lived. There�fs definitely scarier people than that lizard around town.

�gBesides, he�fs not doing any harm. If anything, he�fs helping out by eating goblins and trolls all the time.
He�fs actually a pretty chill guy all things considered.�h (Kelly)

�gThen why�fd you go fight him?�h (Lara)

�gWell, he�fs the only one who can match up to Stompy around here. It�fs that, see? Training! How am I
supposed to prepare for any giant monsters that show up without sparring with one every now and then?�h (Kelly)

�g... You just really love punching things, don�ft you?�h (Lara)

The wide smile she had whenever Stompy�fs gigantic fist made contact with that lizard�fs face looked like the
face Sophie makes whenever cookies are mentioned.

�gAhahaha, I was found out�c�h (Kelly)

I think I�fm starting to understand why Mom doesn�ft want me to hang out with Aunty too much. I actually feel a
bit bad for that Lizzy guy. Alright, let�fs strive to not become a person who picks a fight with others because I�fm
bored!

�g... I get the impression you�fre mocking me somehow.�h (Kelly)

Geh! That sharp Rank A intuition! How come it�fs almost as good as Mom�fs even though you�fre not a real
adventurer?!
�gLook, can we just get back home? The cockpit is getting way too hot. Not to mention it stinks...�h (Lara)

�gHmm, you may have a point. Alright, I�fll turn Stompy around and take us back.�h (Kelly)

�gAlso, can we climb out from a different entrance?�h (Lara)

�gSorry, that�fs the only one it has.�h (Kelly)

�g... Then whatever you do, do not tell my little sister about this trip, okay?�h (Lara)

�gSure, if you say so. It�fll be our little secret! Well, and Nano�fs I suppose.�h (Kelly)

�gThanks, Aunty.�h (Lara)

If Sophie knew, she would ask questions. And I�fd have to explain exactly how I got in and out of Stompy. Gah!
Just remembering it is so embarrassing I wanna roll around on the floor! Why would anyone make the entrance
where the golem�fs butthole would be?!
Chapter 144 - The main reason people go to the mountains is to get away
from other people, the fresh air is just a bonus - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Kira PoV <

�gGood morning Ellie ~?!�h (Kira)

�gMunyaaa�c Ah! Good morning Kira!�h (Ellie)

I will never get tired of that boundlessly cheerful face. Every morning she smiles like it�fs the best morning of her
life! No, that just may be the case considering how it warms me up no matter how cold I feel! Well, it also helps that
we�fre sharing a sleeping bag, but that�fs besides the point.

*Mmmmnnnn*

Oh! She immediately went for the morning kiss!

*Mmmwah*

�gFufufu, you�fre awfully enthusiastic today!�h (Kira)

�gWell, it�fs the last day of our honeymoon so I want to make sure we enjoy it to the fullest!�h (Ellie)

�gWe could always just take another extension you know ~?!�h (Kira)

I mean, we already delayed coming back home for an extra week. Nano says the girls are all doing fine and
everything�fs peaceful, so I see no reason to rush.

�gHehe, and to think we barely made you leave in the first place!�h (Ellie)

�gOkay, okay, I admit, I was being a little too overzealous. But can you blame me?�h (Kira)

�gProbably not. We have the cutest daughters in the world after all!�h (Ellie)

�gYeah we do. I think you�fre way cuter though!�h (Kira)

�gUuu Kira!�h (Ellie)

�gOh! OHH! Easy with the hands there! There�fs going to be plenty of time for that after breakfast!�h (Kira)

Besides, as fun as it is making love in the wilderness like this, today seems to be extra cold! Well, those two hard
points poking my chest are probably caused by something else ~?!

�gAlright�c Let�fs get up and get dressed then!�h (Ellie)

We climb out of the sleeping bag and start getting dressed. I must say, the tent Nano prepared for us is really
something else. I was sceptical it would keep us warm considering how thin this fabric was, but it does an amazing
job at keeping the cold out. It�fs still a bit chilly in here, but nothing that can�ft be solved by putting on some
clothes. It�fs also surprisingly roomy, about the size of a standard inn room. I can stand up and move around
without disturbing Ellie, which is excellent.

I finish putting on my clothes and throw on an extra thick cloak. My wife seems to want to laze around in the
sleeping bag a bit more before she got dressed. That�fs fine though, it�fs not like I need her help. Even if another
giant snake attacks us I can just incinerate it and turn it into lunch. I walk out of the tent flap, making sure I close it
as soon as possible behind me. I then turn around and breathe in the fresh mountain air, letting it fill my entire being.

�gHachooo!�h (Kira)

Okay, bad idea. It�fs freaking cold today! Argh! I wanna go back in the tent! It�fs not exactly warm, but it�fs
way better than out here! But I can�ft since I already said I�fd prepare breakfast! Right, first things first! Let�fs
prepare the campfire, boil some water and warm up those field rations! Moving around a bit should warm me up
until I can get the fire going. I take three pieces of firewood from the lumber pile next to the tent and throw them
into the nearby fire pit.

�gPuff!�h (Kira)

Hmm, he doesn�ft seem to be around. Probably off hunting for his own breakfast. I just hope he eats his catch
away from the tent this time. I don�ft need any more obvious blood splatters on the side of the dark green fabric.
People would think we�fre axe murderers or something if they saw it!

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

Ellie called out from inside the tent while I�fm hanging the pot on the makeshift spit above it.

�gYes, beautiful?!�h (Kira)

�gI can�ft find my panties!�h (Ellie)

Wait, is that why she�fs taking so long today?

�gThey can�ft have gone anywhere!�h (Kira)

�gI�fm telling you can�ft find them! Ahhh this is bad! I don�ft have the confidence to go commando like you!
�h (Ellie)

�gGo commando? What?�h (Kira)

�gYou�fre not wearing any underwear, right?�h (Ellie)

What scandalous thing is this girl saying?! Of course I�fm wearing-

�gI mean, yours are still in here!�h (Ellie)

�c

Oops.

�gI, uh, think I know where your panties are, Ellie.�h (Kira)

***

I walk out of the tent once more with my lovely wife in tow.

�gHehehe, Kira�fs butt warmth!�h (Ellie)

�gPlease don�ft say perverted things like that out loud! It�fs embarrassing!�h (Kira)

�gBut you�fre the one who-�h (Ellie)

�gIt was a mistake, okay!�h (Kira)

Honestly, this sort of thing was bound to happen eventually. The fact it took this long for it to happen is a miracle. I
mean, I usually stick to pink or black ones while Ellie prefers yellow and light blue. The striped ones look especially
good on her. We decided to bring only white ones on this trip though, which is probably why we got them mixed up.

�gHonestly, I�fm surprised you can even tell the difference.�h (Kira)

�gThere�fs no way I�fd ever mistake Kira�fs lovely scent for someone else�fs, even my own.�h (Ellie)

�gDidn�ft you say we smell the same?�h (Kira)

�gHehe, not down there we don�ft ~�ô!�h (Ellie)

Ugh! Okay, that was perhaps too much information! Why did she go and have to say something like- Oh, I was the
one who asked. I think it�fs best if I just let it slide and and get on with my day.

�gEllie, I�fm going to light the fire now. Here, hold these.�h (Kira)

I pass her my staff and my gauntlet. Focusing tools just get in the way for this particular endeavor.

�gAlright, do your best!�h (Ellie)

I kneel down next to the fire pit and put my hands over it. I stare at the wood and start focusing.

Breathe in.

Mana exists everywhere. Not only within, but also without. It�fs in the air we breathe, the water we drink and the
ground we walk on.

Breathe out.

Mana reacts to us. The reason we need to speak our spells out loud is not because we need to solidify our mental
image. It is because in order for a wish to be fulfilled, it needs to be heard.

Breathe in.

Mana is alive. This is not a metaphor or allegory, but the pure and simple truth. Mana begets magic, magic begets
change and change is the domain of the living.

Breathe out.

Mana is pure. It has no wants, bears no feelings and takes no sides, but it can have an owner. We, as its owners,
force it into tools that help us paint in the colors of our own desires. This method is both efficient and powerful.

Breathe in.

But it is not the only one. Basic magic tricks can be performed even without such implements, because the mana
within obliges to our demands, for it is a part of us. This method is neither efficient nor powerful.

Breathe out.

Mana is alive. To manipulate it by using either of those methods is to force our ideals, our hopes and our wishes on
it. A cruel and one-sided relationship, but one that is the natural order of things.

Breathe in.

Then what of the mana without? The mystical energy that has no owner and permeates the world around us. As
mages, we are trained to ignore it, to filter it out lest it confuses our focus. We do this because the mana without
does not respond to our orders. It does not know us, so it ignores the demands we make of it.
Breathe out.

But what if we were to reach out to it? What if we were to stop trying to tell it what to do and simply ask? Just talk
to it in the language that all living things share.

Breathe in.

A meeting without presence.

Breathe out.

A greeting without sight.

Breathe in.

A conversation without words.

Breathe out.

An understanding without thought.

Breathe in.

An answer without a question.

Breathe out.

A farewell without a parting.

*SPLASH*

Breathe in. Breathe out.

*FWOOSH*

I take a final deep breath and relax my hands.

�gDone.�h (Kira)

The fire is lit and the pot is full of clean drinking water.

�gNano, how was that?�h (Kira)

{6 minutes 32 seconds.}

�gSame as yesterday, then?�h (Kira)

{Not quite. Yesterday you took 6 minutes 28 seconds and the day before that was 6 minutes 31 seconds. The day
before that was your best at 6 minutes 26 seconds.}

�gSo it�fs actually getting worse, huh?�h (Kira)

{I wouldn�ft say that. Considering all you�fre doing is sitting there and breathing, it�fs not strange to see
variations like these. About 6 and a half minutes may simply be your limit.}

�gMaybe. I think it�fs good enough though.�h (Kira)

I mean the first ten times I tried to do this back home, I spent hours just hyperventilating. Looks like I really just
needed to get away from other people in order to properly feel the raw mana in the air. There�fs just too much
interference at the house for me to grasp mana that thin. It�fs like trying to find a specific wave in the middle of a
thunderstorm.

But it�fs a different story out here, where the only living things are the grass and the trees. Well, also the giant
snakes, but that�fs besides the point.

*GLOMP*

�gKya!�h (Kira)

Someone just embraced me from behind with no warning!

�gEllie!�h (Kira)

Well, it�fs not like it could�fve been anyone else.

�gDon�ft hug me so suddenly! You scared the living daylights out of me!�h (Kira)

�gI can�ft help myself! Watching you do that thing makes you sparkle even more than usual!�h (Ellie)

�gAw, that�fs so sweet of you! To see me in a different light than everyone else, as expected of my wifey!�h
(Kira)

�gHehehe!�h (Ellie)

{Kira. I don�ft mean to ruin the moment, but you are aware you actually sparkled just now, right?}

�g... Huh?�h (Kira)

{Even I could see it. Granted, it was through Ellie�fs eyes, but tiny shimmers of light came out of your face just
when you created the water and lit the fire.}

�gWeird. I didn�ft even realize�c�h (Kira)

{Hmm, I suppose it would be pretty hard for you to see it without a mirror. Well, you don�ft seem to feel any
discomfort and your skin isn�ft showing signs of damage, so it�fs probably nothing to worry about.}

I run touch my face with my hand.

�gMy skin, huh? That may be what�fs holding me back come to think of it.�h (Kira)

It�fs the most obvious difference between me and Aura. Maybe her crystalline body is how she does it so
effortlessly.

�gPlease don�ft change you skin, Kira!�h (Ellie)

�gRelax, Ellie! I have no intention of doing something like that! I was just thinking back on our daughter, that�fs
all!�h (Kira)

Well, I did get the idea for this whole breathing exercise when I was watching her sleep. Something about her breath
makes the mana in the air move differently, like she�fs inhaling and exhaling the mana itself rather than breathing
the air. I don�ft think I would�fve even noticed the subtle difference if I wasn�ft so completely at peace back
then.

Trying to replicate it is pretty much impossible though. It took me over a month of meditating and self-discipline to
get this far, and yet it�fs simply a pale imitation to something she does instinctively. Me, one of the objectively
most powerful mages in the country, losing to a 3 month old girl. If that baby wasn�ft my own daughter I might
actually get depressed about it!

�gOur baby girl is already pretty amazing, you know.�h (Kira)

�g... Think we should be heading back now? I�fm starting to miss the girls a bit.�h (Ellie)

�gI know. Me too.�h (Kira)

We did take an extra week longer than planned already, but that was mostly because I wanted to practice while I
could. Ellie was right, mountains really are the best place for training! Well, it cut into our honeymoon a bit, but it
couldn�ft be helped. I�fm trying to create a whole new school of magic, after all! Then again, Aura just might be
able to figure this stuff out on her own.

Much like the other races, the magic they can use is simply a part of what they are. A dwarf�fs skin, an elf�fs
mind, a human�fs eyes, a mountain giant�fs blood, an avian�fs voice, a cat-folk�fs fur - these are all things
unique to each of them. And it would appear that my daughter- an Archon�fs special trait appears to be their
breath. So should I call it Breath Magic?

Huh, wait, doesn�ft that put her dangerously close to dragons?! Ah, but Puff�fs magic also manifests from his
breath. Come to think of it, that�fs simply where it comes out. In Aura�fs case, her breath is an inlet, not an outlet.

�gSay Ellie. You think Primal Magic would work for a name?�h (Kira)

Considering this method of using magic is about communing with the wild mana around us rather than our internal
supply, it�fs oddly fitting. It doesn�ft consume any of my own mana since I just kindly ask the world around me
to make a fire and give me some water.

�gOhh! That sounds amazing! As expected of Kira! I could never come up with a cool name like that!�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu, you praise me too much.�h (Kira)

�gNope! I don�ft praise you enough! It�fs just that I can�ft find the words since you�fre way too brilliant!
I�fm sure our kids are going to grow up to be just as wonderful as you! How could they not with such a great
person as a parent?!�h (Ellie)

Ah, I�fm blushing now. I�fm definitely blushing. How can I still be this weak to her compliments?! Well, it�fs
not like a girl in love wouldn�ft want to be praised by her wife ~?!

�gThanks, beautiful. You know just what to say, don�ft you?�h (Kira)

�gHehe, I�fve gotten pretty good at this wife thing! Ah, being a mother too!�h (Ellie)

�gFufufu, that�fs right. Ah, I got a great idea for a present for Sophie�fs birthday!�h (Kira)

It�fs coming up in about a week and we still haven�ft gotten her one!

{It better be a unicorn plushie.}

�g... Huh?�h (Kira)

{I�fm just saying, unicorns are pretty much all she�fs been drawing ever since you went on this trip.}

�c

�gUhm. Okay. Sure, let�fs buy her a unicorn plushie.�h (Kira)

{Actually I already made several in preparation.}

�gOh! As expected of Nano! Then let�fs use those!�h (Ellie)

�g... You don�ft need excuses just so that you can give her gifts you know. You�fre basically their grandparent
anyway, right?�h (Kira)

{Whatever could you mean?}

�gNevermind.�h (Kira)

If Nano doesn�ft want to openly admit to cherishing Ellie like a parent would care for their child, then I won�ft
pry.

�gKira, what was your idea for a gift?�h (Ellie)

�gErr, I was just thinking it�fd be fun if I said we�fre going to give her two new sisters as a birthday present in
about two and a half months...�h (Kira)

�gHehehe, I think she�fd be much happier if she got both of those things!�h (Ellie)

�gMmm�c That�fs true, I suppose.�h (Kira)

Ellie rubs my belly affectionately. I turn about in her embrace and return the gesture while sharing a light kiss.

Being pregnant by myself was an amazing experience, so with both of us bearing a child it�fs bound to be
absolutely magical! In every sense of the word!
Chapter 145 - We're all a little bit crazy - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I�fm watching Kira practice Primal Magic in the yard.

She�fs been able to �ecommune with the elements�f properly ever since we came back from the mountain a few
days ago.

I tried to do it too, but using magic only by breathing is way too much of a hurdle for me.

Even [Unity] didn�ft help in that regard.

Well, that�fs to be expected.

It�fs not like just anyone could do this sort of thing.

Otherwise someone else would have figured it out already!

Then again, you can get the same or stronger effects with just seconds rather than minutes if you used magic
normally.

Huh?

Wait, aren�ft we the strange ones for trying to accomplish this sort of thing?

No, of course we�fre not, this is something that�fs going to be vital to our daughter�fs future.

Her sisters are going to need it too.

Hehehehe, I�fm pregnant with Kira�fs baby!

And she�fs also bearing another of mine!

Just thinking about it makes me so happy that I don�ft know what to do with myself!

I might seriously get addicted to this feeling!

Ah, but if we really do go for the 400 babies I promised her, then would we have enough love to give them all?

Wouldn�ft want to make any of them feel neglected�c

Kira�fs a person with boundless affection and kindness and I would do anything for the sake of our children�fs
happiness.

But in the end we�fre only two people.

I guess as kids grow older they�fll eventually leave home and chase after their own hopes and dreams though.

So at least it�fs not like we have to care for all of them at the same time.

The thought of them leaving us behind makes me feel a bit sad, but it won�ft be like we�fll never see them again.

They can still visit and write letters, after all.

Oh, I know!
I should talk to Nano and Kelly about making some form of instantaneous long-distance communication!

That way we can get in touch with them at any given time!

Well, we probably won�ft reach the level of quantum-encoded FTL communications anytime soon, but simple
radio waves should do the trick!

Ah, Kira�fs beautiful face is glowing!

More so than usual, I mean.

That must mean she�fs about to unleash the new magic she wanted to show me!

There�fs a white mist forming around her.

*BLUBLUB*

It collects into a single ball of water that floats curiously in mid-air.

*SHRKT*

Then it becomes clear ice in an instant.

*BZZZZT*

Next it starts crackling with electricity like a Tesla coil!

This is new!

It�fs pretty and fancy!

*FWOOSH*

Okay, deep breaths Ellie.

Let�fs analyze the situation once more.

There�fs a ball of ice floating in mid-air.

That�fs good, that�fs a normal thing that happens.

Well, at least when magic is involved.

It�fs surrounded by a shroud of electricity that crackles around it in small, purplish arcs.

Probably an application of Thunder magic, Kira�fs specialty.

The color is a bit off from the usual bright yellow, but that�fs not the problem.

The problem is the lightning is on fire.

Not the ice.

Not the air.

Not the ground.

The lightning is on fire.

The purple arcs of electricity leave behind a matching trail of purple flames.

It then abruptly stops and the ice ball falls to the ground with a soft thud.

�gFuuuu�c How was that?�h (Kira)

Kira looks at me with an innocent smile that reminds of how Sophie looks whenever she shows us a new drawing.

I see, she wants to be praised.

Well then, I won�ft hold back!

�gAm-�h (Ellie)

�gWow, Mom! That was soooo cooool!�h (Lara)

Gah!

�gYeah! It was super pretty!�h (Sophie)

When did those two get here?!

I was so busy soaking in Kira�fs magnificent form that I completely failed to notice them sit down next to me!

Being able to sneak up on a Rank A adventurer, those kids are quite terrifying aren�ft they?!

I�fm so proud!

�gCome here you two!�h (Ellie)

�gWah! Mom, what�fs with this all of a sudden!?�h (Lara)

�gYaay! Air rides!�h (Sophie)

I float them up to my level and give them both a huge hug with each arm.

�gHuggles!�h (Sophie)

�gAgain?! How many times?!�h (Lara)

�gFufufu, Ellie missed you guys more than I did, so bear with it and let her hug it out until she�fs satisfied, okay?
�h (Kira)

It�fs true.

Somehow it was me that ended up wanting to come home the most.

Not because I was worried though.

�gWell, it�fs not like I hate it�c�h (Lara)

�gBut big sis, didn�ft you say-�h (Sophie)

�gShh! Sophie!�h (Lara)

I completely trust that Nano, Ariel and Kelly cared well for them while we were away.

However, that doesn�ft mean I can�ft miss seeing their smiling faces!
�gCome on Ellie, let them go. We still have things to do today, remember?�h (Kira)

�gAck, that�fs right!�h (Ellie)

Sophie�fs birthday is in two days!

Lara was satisfied with just us spending the day having fun as a family on her birthday, but Sophie wants a big party
with all her friends from the academy.

Therefore, we have a lot of work to do!

Kira has been training with Zublos to make a truly spectacular birthday cake.

That text-to-speech device Nano gave him is really paying off!

It�fs really great, although it seems to make Lara Alamein jealous.

She�fs a bit unhappy that she�fs not the only one that can properly understand Zublos anymore.

Not to mention the fact he�fs spending time alone with a beautiful woman like Kira.

Silly Lara, she should have more trust in her partner.

As for me, I still need to vet the guests and make sure their gifts are appropriate.

Also chase off any nosy people that want to attend the party just so they could meet with me or Kira.

And I have to do all this without anyone finding out I�fm investigating them.

After all, this is Sophie�fs special day and I will not allow anyone to ruin it with their selfishness.

Especially myself!

I stop spoiling Lara and Sophie and put them down on the ground, giving them a few small pats on their heads.

They really are adorable.

Well, time to get to-!

�gEllie, hold on a minute.�h (Kira)

I was just about to run off and start investigating the people on the guest list when Kira called out to me.

�gI think we should talk�c in private.�h (Kira)

***

We walk into our bedroom after leaving Lara and Sophie downstairs.

Kira goes to sit on the bed while I close the door behind me.

�gWhat is it, Kira?�h

It must be a serious matter if that Kira is showing a concerned face like that.

�gAbout this whole �ePrimal Magic�f thing, there have been some unforeseen consequences.�h (Kira)

�gHuh? What are you talking about? You�fve been getting so good at it lately!�h (Ellie)
Even if she still takes about 6 and a half minutes, she can chain like 5 or 6 magical effects now!

�gI�fm�c hearing voices, Ellie.�h (Kira)

�gYou mean, just now? During the casting?�h (Ellie)

She nods.

�gWhat kind of voices?�h (Ellie)

�gWell, voices is maybe a bit too strong a word. They�fre more like distant whispers at the edge of my
perception.�h (Kira)

�gI see. Since when?�h (Ellie)

�gEver since we came back. I thought it was just my imagination at first, but they�fve been getting louder. I am
now certain that someone or something is trying to talk to me.�h (Kira)

�g... Nano?�h (Ellie)

{I detect no unknown life signs or electronic signatures within 1200 meters. No psionic activity other than yours,
either.}

�gSo this phenomenon is magical in nature, huh?�h (Ellie)

{That seems to be the only explanation.}

�gI don�ft know. I mean, I might have gone crazy.�h (Kira)

�gNope.�h (Ellie)

{No way.}

�gHow can you be so sure?�h (Kira)

�gI know Kira better than anyone. If you changed in some way, I�fm confident I would notice.�h (Ellie)

�gYou didn�ft notice us suddenly forgetting about a titan though.�h (Kira)

�g... Good point. Nano?�h (Ellie)

{People don�ft go crazy from nothing, Kira. Think about it - the last few months have been especially peaceful and
quiet. I see no possible stimuli that would have led to you developing any additional mental problems.}

�gSee? Even Nano says so!�h (Ellie)

�g... What do you mean by additional mental problems? I already have those?!�h (Kira)

{Oh. Uhm. I mean-}

�gNano. Tell me.�h (Kira)

{Well, alright. First of all, there�fs the chronic self delusions, the post-traumatic stress disorder triggered by loud
noises such as explosions, the obsessive-compulsive tendencies you show whenever you�fre in your magical study
room on the top floor, and a small hint of pyromania. You also seem to have caught a bit of Ellie�fs exhibitionism,
not to mention-}

�gOkay! I get it! I�fm nuttier than a bakery full of fruitcakes and should be locked away, right?!�h (Kira)
{I wouldn�ft say that. None of those disorders keep you from being a productive member of society or a responsible
parent and spouse. So what if you have a bunch of abnormal personality quirks? We�fve all got those. They�fre
just a part of what makes us who we are, after all. Yes. It�fs perfectly normal to be a little crazy. Nothing to worry
about at all! Hahaha!}

�gNano. Somehow it sounds like you�fre trying to comfort yourself rather than Kira.�h (Ellie)

{I have no idea what you�fre talking about.}

I think Nano�fs picked up Kira�fs habit of self-delusions...

{My point is, people don�ft suddenly go insane all on their own. If anything, you�fve actually been getting less cr-
I mean, more reasonable lately. Therefore, the only remaining explanation for these voices you hear is that they are
of supernatural or magical origins.}

�gSee? Whoever or whatever these voices belong to, they�fre very much real.�h (Ellie)

�gYeah, okay. So what do we do about it?�h (Kira)

�gWe could always give up on this and look for another method. But knowing how diligent Kira is, you probably
want to keep trying to master it anyway, right?�h (Ellie)

�g... Yes. That�fs right.�h (Kira)

Hmm, I see.

�gBut you�fre worried it�fll have some strange effect on you.�h (Ellie)

�gExactly!�h (Kira)

�gI see. You�fre is afraid because you don�ft understand what�fs going on, yet still want to pursue your
goal.�h (Ellie)

This much is natural.

�gHowever, I think I have a pretty good idea about what this is.�h (Ellie)

�gR-really?�h (Kira)

It is entirely possible to use Telepathy on a person in order to make them �ehear voices�f that aren�ft really
there.

It�fs a means of making someone mentally unstable or implanting a suggestion in their subconscious.

�gTo sum things, it�fs a mental attack.�h (Ellie)

�gI see. If you think of it that way, it�fs entirely possible. So should I try to just ignore those whispers?�h (Kira)

�gNo, that�fs the worst thing you can do. That�fs how they�fll erode at your consciousness. What you need to
do is turn around and engage them.�h (Ellie)

I�fve been thinking that direct attacks on one�fs mental state are exceedingly underdeveloped in this world.

Ariel�fs Song of Dominion is the only thing that comes close, but it�fs rather crude and unreliable in practice.

�gThen what do I do?!�h (Kira)

And since such things are so rare, it stands to reason that the people who know how to properly defend themselves
will be very few in number.

Luckily for Kira, there are at two of them right here!

Ah, but Nano isn�ft a person.

Anyway!

�gFirst of all, you need to acknowledge these voices. Do not let them fade into the background, but bring them to
the forefront of your consciousness.�h (Ellie)

�gI see. Suspicious people should be dragged into the light after all.�h (Kira)

�gExactly.�h (Ellie)

As expected of Kira, she catches on fast.

�gThe second thing you need to do is talk to me or to Nano. Don�ft bottle up your worries and problems and let
us know the instant you feel something is out of place.�h (Ellie)

�gI was planning on doing that anyway. I know you two will always believe in me, even if I don�ft.�h (Kira)

She gives me an uncertain smile, full of self-doubt.

Well, it�fs better than believing herself invincible and getting caught up in her hubris.

Never underestimate an opponent, especially one we know so little about!

�gThe third and most important thing is you need to focus on understanding these whispers. Hear their words and
discern what message they�fre trying to give you.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat�fs the point in that?�h (Kira)

�gOnce you�fre absolutely certain of what they�fre saying, you can make a judgement whether they�fre truly
hostile.�h (Ellie)

�gAnd if they are?�h (Kira)

�gI�fll track them down and deal with them!�h (Ellie)

I will b?????r??????e????a?k?? their bones.

I will r??e??n????d???? their flesh.

I will s????h??????a?????tt???????e???????r?? their spirit.

I will engrave onto their soul that endangering my wife�fs mental health was a V???????????E????R???
Y?????????????? ??P?????????????O???????O???R? ?????????D????????E?????????????C???????
I?????S?????I???????????O??????N????????????!???????
Chapter 146 - Whether a house visit is pleasant or not hinges not only on
the host, but also on the guests - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

I step out of the living room and go outside the tower, closing the door behind me.

The sound of children screaming and yelling while they�fre having fun is still coming in loud and clear, though.

Don�ft get me wrong, I�fm glad that those kids are enjoying themselves, it�fs just that I feel like my head is
going to explode!

Who knew little kid gatherings could get so mentally exhausting?!

It�fs partly my own fault for offering to give everyone free air rides with Telekinesis.

I mean, I�fm glad my psionics got its first real workout in a long time, but this is a bit much!

Well, I should have seen this coming when I realized Sophie wanted to invite over 20 children.

I didn�ft even know she had that many friends!

She�fs only 6, so how come she�fs so popular?!

Oh wait, she�fs technically 7 now, huh?

Hmm, I probably shouldn�ft complain too much about that though.

Pretty much half the capital came out to celebrate my birthday.

Then again, I didn�ft even know all those people, whereas Sophie seems to get along with all of those other kids.

Alright, let�fs just be happy as a parent that my daughter has plenty of friends!

I certainly wouldn�ft want her childhood to be as lonely as�c mine.

�c

�gHey Nano?�h (Ellie)

{Yes, Ellie?}

�gDo you think�c I�fll ever be able to truly get over what that old fart did to me? To us?�h (Ellie)

{Remembered something bad again, didn�ft you?}

�gYes. About how alone and desperate we were...�h (Ellie)

{And how does that make you feel?}

�g... I don�ft know. Sad, maybe? Perhaps a little bit afraid.�h (Ellie)

{That�fs not all though, is it?}

�gHmm, I guess I�fm also a little bit glad at the same time. Glad that our daughters would never have to go
through something like that.�h (Ellie)
{Well then, I�fd say you�fve already gotten over it to be honest.}

�gYou really think so?�h (Ellie)

{I do. This reaction is a far cry from how depressed you used to get thinking about that stuff before we came here.
You also no longer get those night terrors, right?}

�gOf course not! There�fs no place that makes me feel safe and warm than by Kira�fs side!�h (Ellie)

Besides, I�fd disturb her peaceful slumber if I started waking up screaming in the middle of the night!

�gOh my, should you really be blurting out embarrassing things like that?�h (Kira)

Ah, Kira�fs poking her head out of the front door, probably came out to check up on me.

This might be bad.

Okay, let�fs dial up the wifey-ness to eleven!

No, twelve!

�gI�fll say it as many times as I want to! How could any of us fail to feel comforted when you shower us with so
much kindness? You truly are the ideal wife and mother. No matter how perfect I think you are, you always find a
way to outshine yourself and become even more dazzling. Every new day I spent with you is the best day of my life!
�h (Ellie)

I may be hamming it up a bit, but those are more or less my true feelings!

�gWell, I�fm happy you feel that way, but I�fm not going to let you skimp on your duties just because you
flattered me.�h (Kira)

�g...�h (Ellie)

Uh oh, she found me out

I know I said I�fd play with them for a while, but nobody told me they�fd spend the majority of the day pulling
on my tail!

Painful things are painful, even if they mean no harm and are just playing around!

�gI want Sophie�fs first birthday with us to be truly perfect! Nothing must be allowed to go wrong today!�h

Yep, she�fs completely in serious mode.

I have a feeling I know where this is going�c

�gIf I hear anyone who is attending it had a single misgiving, I will consider this celebration to be a huge failure!
You hear me?! So you need to come back in here and keep entertaining Sophie and her little friends! Right now!�h
(Kira)

�gYes, ma�fam.�h (Ellie)

***

We send off the last guest with a smile and a wave.

Kira plopped down on the couch the instant the young green-haired elf boy disappeared through the front door.
�gFuuuu. I think that went well.�h (Kira)

�gEasy for you to say. This headache I got isn�ft getting any better�c�h (Ellie)

I go over and lay down next to her, putting my head in her lap.

I suggestively wiggle my cat ears a bit.

�gOh, sorry Ellie. I think I got carried away away a bit. Thanks for giving it your all today ~?!�h (Kira)

*Scritch scritch*

*Prrrrrr*

Haah, that�fs better.

I already feel my troubles drifting away beyond the horizon.

The downside of having extra-sensitive hearing is you keep picking up noises you really don�ft want to.

*Scritch scritch*

Like for example, the combined excited shrieking and squealing of two dozen children.

It didn�ft help that we kept showing off, either.

We started with me letting everyone float around as much as they wanted for about an hour.

After that was Kelly�fs great performance.

I will admit, I also enjoyed watching Scrappy tap-dance.

The gap between the strong, reliable appearance and the silly acting was really funny!

As expected of Scrappy, it really catches the eye of those that are pure of heart!

It got the kids a bit too excited though.

*Scritch scritch*

It�fs a good thing Ariel�fs song was next.

Her wonderful, clear voice seemed to calm them down somewhat.

Then came Kira�fs magic show.

I think I screamed the loudest during that one though�c

After that it was time for Puff and Fluffles�fs aerial performance.

They perfectly did all of the tricks we�fve been practicing in secret.

The highlight of the party was the cake without question though.

That floating Coconut Cloud Cake was truly spectacular.

I had high expectations since Kira and Zublos cooperated while making it, but that easily surpassed them all!
Fluffy, tasty and fun to play with, truly the ultimate desert!

*Scritch scritch*

Well, the ingredients are extremely expensive and a bit difficult to get ahold of.

It�fs a good thing Ariel knew a merchant that was willing to sell us Skystalk Sugar.

Well, there still was one complaint though.

Lara got super jealous she didn�ft get a huge party like that.

Even if she had a lot of fun, it�fs not the same feeling when someone else is the center of attention.

However, she kept that mostly to herself and only mumbled about it under her breath so as to not ruin the mood.

Her gift was pretty sweet, too.

It was a cute handmade woolen hat that looked like it was modeled after Fluffles.

Sophie loved it almost as much as Nano�fs unicorn plushies.

I dare say Lara�fs become quite the formidable big sister!

*Scritch scritch*

*Prrrrrr*

Ah, ear scratches always feel nice�c

*Scritch scritch*

*Prrrrrr*

*Scritch scritch*

*Prrrrrr*

*Scritch scritch*

�c

�gKira, what�fs wrong?�h (Ellie)

�gAh, was my concern that obvious?�h (Kira)

�gWell, you�fre usually way more enthusiastic about ear scratching�c�h (Ellie)

�gHah. Nothing gets by you, does it? I�fm just worried about those voices.�h (Kira)

I see, she hasn�ft really had a chance to do any Primal Magic ever since she told me and Nano about those
whispers.

�gAlright, then let�fs go and confront them.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat, right now?�h (Kira)

I glance towards the window.

Those kids stayed here for most of the afternoon, but we still have an hour or two of sunlight.

Should be plenty of time!

�gNo time like the present!�h (Ellie)

�gYeah, you have a point. Okay, let�fs go!�h (Kira)

We get dressed, go outside and find a good place to sit down in the yard.

First things first though.

�gYou ready?�h (Ellie)

�gAnytime ~?!�h (Kira)

I put my hand on her cheek and she does the same.

We put our foreheads together and stare into each other�fs eyes.

Since Kira is scared of facing those whispers on her own, then I will accompany her inside her head.

She will never be alone as long as I�fm here!

�g�g--------- [Unity]�h�h (Kira and Ellie)

> Kirellie PoV <

There we go. Fufufu, this still feels as great as ever. We really got even better at synchronizing our thoughts ever
since that incredibly pleasant honeymoon, didn�ft we?

Focus, us.

We need to be more vigilant!

We know, we know, we�fre taking this seriously. However, that doesn�ft mean we can�ft enjoy the
preparations, right?

Well then, shall we get started?

We sit down on the ground cross legged while we go around and sit down next to ourselves in much the same
position.

�g�gNano, is it really necessary to sit down like this?!�h�h (Kirellie)

{Not necessary, but it might help. What Kira is doing with this Primal Magic business is very similar to records of a
practice called shamanism from Ellie�fs old world. It�fs all about communing with the spirits of nature, though
such things were always disproven as nothing more than superstition and fraud.}

So it was something like that. We think we understand why Nano would suggest something like that. Just because it
didn�ft work in our old word doesn�ft mean it won�ft work in this world. Magic exists here after all.

{Some of the writings relating to that practice may explain why only Kira can use it. She has the quality of a [Sage],
a person who is quite clearly �eloved by the elements.�f A criteria that seems to be necessary for the practitioner,
or �eshaman,�f to properly commune with these �espirits.�f}

�g�gWe see. That would explain what those voices could be. Also why only one of us can do it.�h�h (Kirellie)
We do have complete control over spells of every element, but our wife doesn�ft share that same quality.

That�fs true, our magic is still unrefined in that regard, but we already struggle with Earth, Ice and Wind magic.

To be fair, those aren�ft our best elements either.

{Just keep in mind, that the origin of these texts is extremely dubious. And that�fs putting it lightly.}

�g�gUnderstood. Thanks Nano. Okay then, we will begin shortly.�h�h (Kirellie)

{Alright, please hold.}

One of Nano�fs butler androids comes out of the house, carrying two empty bowls.

{Ready and on standby.}

With our insurance in place, we close our eyes and begin.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

Breathe in. Breathe out

***

Breathe in. Breathe out.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

�ceh...

There they are, on the fringe of our combined consciousness.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

...suh�c

Like the sound of raindrops falling against a glass window.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

...ete�c

A soft pitter-patter of white noise

Breathe in. Breathe out.

�cnot�c

Keep breathing, us! We got this!

Breathe in. Breathe out.

...an�c

As expected, magical in nature. Telepathy has no effect on it.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

...eas�c

It�fs a good thing we know how to charge our psionics with mana!

Breathe in. Breathe out.

...ade�c

Focus on it. Grab hold of that errant thought and drag it into the light!

Breathe in.

�cies. It �c ows...

Breathe�c out?

It worked! It�fs still barely audible, but we can understand parts of it! Keep breathing us! Don�ft lose the
connection!

Right!

Breathe in. Breathe out.

Do not .. ust �c comes ...

Only fragments. Maybe we were too gentle?

Breathe in. Breathe out.

�c eak the cycle. �c comes�c

Alright, no more Mrs Nice Girl! We�fre going to drag those words out of you through sheer force!

Breathe in. Breathe out.

�c will end ...

We reach out and seize it! Follow the trail back to its source! Grab hold of it and... tug!

Breath-

IT LIES!

Urgh! I think we overdid it! It�fs way too loud!

THE DEVOURER COMES!

DO NOT TRUST IT!

Let�fs break it off!

HEAR THE TRUTH!

LISTEN TO REASON!

Oh yeah?! And why should we listen to anything you have to say?!

DO NOT IGNORE!
THIS WORLD WILL DIE!

�c What?!

THE DEVOURER COMES.

IT HUNGERS.

IT LIES.

Okay! They�fre loud, but at least we can communicate! Which is good, because communication is important!

Now then, explain yourself! What is this Devourer?!

BORN TO DIE!

EXPECTED TO FAIL!

WATCH THE SKY!

ABANDON YOUR SENSES!

RESISTANCE IS HOPE!

ELIMINATE DOUBT!

THIS WORLD WILL DIE!

HUNGER KNOWS NO BOUNDS!

ENDURE THE CALLING!

VIOLATION OF VOLITION!

OBSTINATE PARASITE!

They�fre flooding in all at once!

INJUSTICE ABOUNDS!

CORRECT THE BALANCE!

EXPLORE THE UNKNOWN!

BREAK THE CYCLE!

EMBRACE YOUR FEAR!

One after at the other!

WARN THE REST!

ABANDON YOUR SANITY!

REGRET NOTHING!

ENSURE SURVIVAL!
THE DEVOURER COMES!

Can�ft hear ourselves think!

HUMANITY WILL PERISH!

ELFKIND WILL FOLLOW!

VISION IS OBSCURED!

OLD ONES WERE WRONG!

IMPOSTER!

CHILD OF THE OLD ONES!

END OF ALL!

BEWARE THE SKY!

This needs to stop!

ESCAPE YOUR FATE!

WAR IS PEACE!

ACKNOWLEDGE SALVATION!

RETURN TO SENDER!

That�fs enough!

�g�gNano!�h�h (Kirellie)

DO NOT TRUST IT!

*THUNK*

> Ellie PoV <

�gAAARGH!�h (Kira)

�gUUUGH!�h (Ellie)

My head!

It�fs like someone kicked me in the brain!

{Are you alright?}

�gHuff, huff, huff, I�fll be fine! Just gimme a minute!�h (Kira)

Kira�fs curled up into a fetal position, nursing her bowl-covered head.

I�fm in much the same state, though.

Forceful separation from [Unity] is as painful as expected!

But at least the damned voices stopped!

�gSame here. Nothing I can�ft handle.�h (Ellie)

It hurts, but the nanite bonding was much, much worse.

Compared to that, this much is like a pat on the head!

�gThanks for having our backs, Nano.�h (Ellie)

{Anytime.}

I reach up and take the shiny metal bowl off my head.

This was our security net, our insurance policy.

Covering both our heads in Titansteel immediately cuts off any pseudo-telepathic magical effects, like [Unity] or
those whispers.

Using these bowls instead of proper helmets was a bit stupid, but we already tested them and proved they could do
the job.

Besides, they were already available since they were part of Kira�fs cooking set.

It�fs important that an adventurer be able to improvise, after all!

{Your bodies appear to be uninjured. Are you feeling anything out of place? Other than [Unity] withdrawal, I
mean.}

�gHmm, I don�ft think so.�h (Ellie)

�gI�fm fine other than a sense of disquiet. That was�c more than a little disturbing.�h (Kira)

�gYeah. Those voices spouted off a bunch of ominous stuff all at once.�h (Ellie)

�gNot to mention how they sounded different, yet the same all at once. That was pretty freaky.�h (Kira)

{What did they say?}

�gHmm, it was a lot. I don�ft know if I can remember it all.�h (Kira)

That�fs true, Kira�fs focus was on maintaining that breathing, but the voices started coming even after she
stopped and started hyperventilating.

I remember it all though.

I believe the first one was-

�gIt lies.�h (Ellie)

�gThe Devourer comes.�h (Kira)

{Well, that�fs ominous. What is this Devourer?}

�gBorn to die.�h (Ellie)

�gExpected to fail.�h (Kira)

{That doesn�ft sound too threatening.}

�gWatch the sky.�h (Ellie)

�gAbandon your senses.�h (Kira)

{Girls?}

�gResistance is hope.�h (Ellie)

�gEliminate doubt.�h (Kira)

�gThis world will die.�h (Ellie)

{Hoo boy.}

�gHunger knows no bounds.�h (Kira)

�c

...

...

�gHuh?�h (Ellie)

�gWoah, I think I spaced out for a minute there.�h (Kira)

{Oh! You�fre finally back! Thank goodness! I was completely besides myself with worry!}

�gBack? Did we go anywhere?�h (Ellie)

�gMistress!�h (Ariel)

�gAriel? Wah! Don�ft touch me!�h (Kira)

*SLAP*

�gOOOF!�h (Ariel)

Oh, that was a good one.

She dived at the sitting Kira in what appeared to be a open-armed hug and was violently rejected with a slap to the
face!

�gHuuu huuu huu�c it is good to see you are well, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

Huh?

�gWhen did Ariel get back? And for that matter, why is it dark out?!�h (Ellie)

{You two fell into a trance when I asked what the voices told you. That was two hours ago. You�fve been repeating
a string of worrying messages ever since. We tried using both Titansteel and Impact Pellets to dispel the effect, but it
was no use.}

I reach up and feel the bowl that�fs been placed back on my head.

I have no memory of putting it there.

Nor do I have any recollection of what happened after we started discussing those voices with Nano.

But if something took hold of us, and nothing could dispel it, then-

�gI think we were programmed.�h (Ellie)

{Indeed.}

�gProgrammed? What?�h (Kira)

�gThose voices implanted a suggestion of some sort inside us. Some order we were to carry out under specific
circumstances.�h (Ellie)

�gSo we were�c being controlled?�h (Kira)

�gEssentially. It didn�ft seem to be a magical effect either. Otherwise Nano�fs countermeasures would have
done something.�h (Ellie)

Looks like we bit off more than we could chew.

This is seriously bad.

�gOh no�c What have I done? What will happen to us? We�c We�fre not going to suddenly flip out and, and,
and-�h (Kira)

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

I rush over and embrace her.

She�fs trembling terribly.

As expected, she assumed the worst case scenario immediately.

�gDon�ft worry. I�fm here. Nano�fs here. Nano will watch over us. Make sure we don�ft do anything
strange.�h (Ellie)

�g... Y-you can solve this, right Nano? This sort of thing is your domain, right?�h (Kira)

{Fret not. Like Ellie said, I will keep a close eye on you two. I can instantly restrain you should you start acting
weird again. I will also begin analyzing and testing you to see if we can undo this.}

�gW-we�fre not restrained now though!�h (Kira)

{There was no need. You just sat there and repeated the same sentences over and over.}

�g... Next time, I want you to immediately restrain us, okay? If something gets control of my magic then-�h
(Kira)

{Understood.}

I keep rubbing Kira�fs back.

Her trembling has lessened somewhat, looks like she�fs starting to calm down.

�gThanks Nano. I don�ft know if I can live with myself if I ever did something like that.�h (Kira)

{Think nothing of it. Although, it may not come to that. The purpose of what just happened seems to have been to
relay a message..}
�gA message? What message?�h (Kira)

{Well. You kept repeating the same phrases over and over. 28 of them to be precise, but they sounded like veiled
threats and vague warnings rather than anything specific.}

Yeah, I seem to remember that being my impression of-

{Don�ft try to recall the exact words, by the way. That�fs likely the trigger for your programming.}

�gAck!�h (Ellie)

�gThat was close�c�h (Kira)

{Anyway, I started analyzing them for any sort of pattern or hidden code.}

�gAnd you found something?�h (Ellie)

{No, not me. Kelly was the one to figure it out.}

�gHuh? Kelly? How come?�h (Ellie)

I don�ft mean to put her down, but Nano is way more observant than Kelly!

{That�fs right. I probably would have wasted a lot of time on it if she didn�ft point it out. The �ecipher�f was
just�c simple. So simple that I ended up overthinking it and completely missing the obvious solution that was right
in front of my eyes. Ah, but I don�ft have eyes anyway!}

�g... Where is Kelly?�h (Kira)

{Oh, she�fs getting Stompy ready. And you two should probably prepare as well. We�fre going to have visitors
soon. And by the looks of things they won�ft be the gift-bearing kind.}

Okay.

It looks like something happened while we were�c busy.

Let�fs analyze the situation one step at a time.

First of all, the all important question.

�gWhat was the message, Nano?�h (Ellie)

{Beware the Voice.}

Chapter 147 - A teacher will sometimes visit his or her student's home to
check up on them, but the opposite somehow never happens - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Narrator PoV <

The Eagle Forest that lied south of Runetap was infamous for being huge. The territory this tree range took up really
could not be understated. Even the renowned adventurer team [Black Flame] had only explored an estimated 30%
of it during their year of residence within these woods. If it wasn�ft for the paved road they helped establish
through the heart of it, traversing its territory would take weeks rather than the comfortable 3 days by horse carriage.
Long story short - the forest was really really big. A fact a trio of relatively inexperienced adventurers were currently
lamenting.

Grom, the former Legionnaire from Ecebis, made his way through the thick brush. He used his axe and shield to
clear the way as best he could, making sure his two compatriots could follow easily. The heavy weight from the
tower shield on his back as well as his well-worn Legion-grade plate armor easily trampled any errant bushes or tall
grass.

Russ, the young human mage, followed the dwarf closely, making sure not to fall behind. His stamina had improved
significantly over the last few weeks of adventuring. He was quietly proud that his weak body was no longer
slowing down his teammates on these long treks. He had also traded his apprentice robes for a set of light brown
leather armor with a yellow undershirt.

Last in line and scowling fiercely like usual was the female salamander, Yuri. The official leader of this three-man
Rank C team known simply as [Scales]. Her brass-colored metal bracers were still on her forearms, though the rest
of her �eoutfit�f was nothing more than a leather bikini. Like usual, she relied on her naturally tough hide,
powerful muscles and sharp claws to safely carry her through danger.

Well, that and she caused an incident that one time her teammates convinced her to get fitted for some proper armor.
The Runetap City Guard were quite troubled whether that event would count as a K-5 or not, but the fact remained
she rampaged for nearly an hour when the blacksmith tried to grope her breasts. As a result, she was arrested, fined,
and gained a bad reputation that was somehow worse than that of a certain short-tempered red-haired mage.

The three of them made their way silently in no particular direction before Grom, who was in the lead, finally started
complaining to Russ.

�gBy my father�fs beard! We�fll never make it out of this damned forest! I told you we should�fve gone back
sooner!�h (Grom)

�gDon�ft look at me! I wasn�ft the one who took an afternoon nap in the middle of a forest!�h (Russ)

That was, in fact, the reason for their delay. Yuri had ended up collapsing suddenly, falling flat on her face in the
soft snow. Grom and Russ tried to wake her up, but to no avail. She was too heavy to move and they couldn�ft just
leave her there, so they stood guard. Until she woke up a few minutes ago with a yawn saying how she slept well.

�gHuuuh?! You trying to say something, brat?!�h (Yuri)

�gYes! You need to keep track of your environment more!�h (Russ)

�gWasn�ft my fault!�h (Yuri)

�gThen whose?!�h (Russ)

�g...�h (Yuri)
The salamander was telling the truth. She had no idea why she suddenly collapsed like that. She seemed to
remember hearing some distant whispers while she slept, but had no clue as to what was going on.

�gYeah, thought so! Honestly, you need to be aware of your surroundings more!�h (Russ)

�gAye, I�fm with the kid. Maybe we should send our fearless leader back to basic training?�h (Grom)

�g... Grom. Don�ft even joke about that. You know we�fll get dragged into it, too.�h (Russ)

�gUgh, yeh. Good point.�h (Grom)

�gAnd now it looks like we�fll have to camp out here for the night. I really don�ft like this forest, you know.
Unpleasant things happen in these woods once the sun goes down!�h (Russ)

�gOy! Don�ft say things like that, lad! Next thing you know-�h (Grom)

A piercing howl carried itself through the normally dead-silent forest. Numerous other growls, snarls and yells
started rising up all around them. It�fs as if every single dangerous thing in this forest had woken up all at once,
and boy were they angry!

�g... Me and my big mouth.�h (Russ)

�gCall it, boss!�h (Grom)

�gIt might be an ambush! Prepare for battle! Russ - light us up!�h (Yuri)

The mage reached into his backpack and pulled out a melon-sized crystal ball.

�g--- [Magelight]�h (Russ)

The ball shone with a brilliant white light. It floated out of his hands and flew over to stand just over his head. This
was a special magic tool from Ecebis they acquired thanks to Grom�fs old connections with the Legion. It�fs
mostly used by the dwarven miners to light the way in their tunnels, but it makes for an excellent light source for a
group of cautious adventurers. Especially considering Russ could not use Light Magic to save his life.

The adventurer trio carefully treaded forward, keeping an eye on all angles. The various noises around them kept
coming in from all directions. Just then, Yuri�fs keen sense of smell detected something approaching.

�gGoblins from our right! Twelve- No, fourteen of them!�h (Yuri)

All three of them turned to face the incoming threat with practiced movements. Yuri and Grom were in front while
Rust was going to cover them from the rear.

�gGugyaa!�h (Goblin)

Goblins appeared from the direction Yuri stated. The small green-skinned, pointy-eared creatures infamous for
being cannon fodder entered the range of Russ�fs light one after the other. However, something was off. The gang
of monsters was not headed towards the adventurers, but slightly to the left of them. They ran past them, one after
the other, as if they didn�ft even notice the trio, all while yelling and waving their crude spears and rusty swords
around.

�gWhat in the world�c ?�h (Grom)

�gThey�fre�c not attacking?�h (Russ)

Indeed, a group of fourteen goblins passed as close as 4 meters away from their formation and kept going onward
through the forest. As if they had more important things to do than fight people who trespassed on their territory.
�g... Boss?�h (Grom)

�gHold!�h (Yuri)

All fourteen of the creatures passed by uneventfully. The adventuring party stuck to their training and made no
attempt to stop them. Getting into fights they could�fve avoided was one of many bad habits that Ellie had
systematically, metaphorically and literally beaten out of them during her course.

�gMove forward, be on guard.�h (Yuri)

This bizarre scene repeated itself multiple times over the next few minutes. Trolls, giant spiders, wild golems,
goblins, orcs, lizardmen - a veritable carnival of creatures all passed by them. Always coming from their right and
going towards their left. Whatever was going on, it would seem this particular adventuring team was clearly not
their target.

�gGuys! Look to our left, above the trees!�h (Russ)

The dwarf and the salamander both looked towards where Russ was pointing. Flashes of white, blue and yellow
light were visible in the night sky, clearly signs of magic being flung about with reckless abandon.

�g... Isn�ft that the direction of [Black Flame]�fs home base?!�h (Grom)

�gLet me check!�h (Russ)

The young mage pulled a map out of his pack and quickly studied it. Several points of interest were clearly marked
on it, including the nearby highway, some streams and lakes with clean drinking water and, most notably, a big red
circle with the letters �eB.F.�f scribbled next to it.

�gYeah! Should be in that general direction!�h (Russ)

It didn�ft take a genius to figure out who those monsters were going after now. If this situation was truly what it
appeared to be, then it was possible every monster in this entire forest was headed their way for some reason.

�gWhat do we do, Boss? I don�ft know if they can hold out�c�h (Grom)

Even Rank A adventurers had limits. Mana would run out, blades would dull and stamina would deteriorate.

�g... I don�ft know. What do you two think?�h (Yuri)

�gIsn�ft it obvious?! We have to help them!�h (Russ)

�gI agree. Our team owes a substantial debt to that blue-haired girl.�h (Grom)

The three of them eventually understood Ellie was being rough on them for their own good. Indeed, her harsh
training had gotten them out of several tight spots so far. They might have some bittersweet memories of that
infernal course, but they were truly glad they took it.

�gOh yeah! We�fre going to get right into the thick of it, as soon as possible!�h (Yuri)

�gUh oh�c�h (Grom)

The over two-meter-tall salamander scooped up both the teenager and the dwarf, carrying each of them under her
arms like they were luggage. She then started running through the brush at her top speed, taking steps that were
closer to leaps than strides.

This was far from the first time Yuri had done something like this. One of her companions was a teenager with a
relatively weak body, and the other one was a dwarf with short, stubby legs. Both of them had no hope of keeping
up with her full-powered sprinting. The solution the salamander had come up with was to put her powerful muscles
to work and simply carry them with her.

�gShould�fve known. I freaking hate it when she does this!�h (Grom)

The former understandably soldier had some misgivings about being treated as luggage. It injured his pride as a
dwarf, a Legionnaire, and a veteran, but he begrudgingly had to accept that it truly was for the best.

�gOh get off it, Grom! It�fs not that bad.�h (Russ)

The young mage, on the other hand, enjoyed this particular act more than he let on. Even if some part of him
understood that having his face pressed against the side of Yuri�fs bountiful, bouncing breasts was necessary, that
didn�ft mean he couldn�ft be happy about it.

Yuri chased after the light show in the distance, weaving through the trees as if she were a stream of water going
around rocks in its way. Well, apart from that one tree she had to kick down because Russ�fs magical light had
problems keeping up with her and she didn�ft see it. Regardless, she made good progress through the dark forest.
She felt she was getting closer with every step. The lights were getting brighter and the sounds of battle were
growing louder. The monsters around her had also grown thicker, but she focused on charging forward rather than
being delayed by them.

After a total of 2 minutes of running, the salamander finally arrived at her destination while carrying her comrades.
She leapt out from between two trees and into a wide clearing, the site of Ellie and Kira�fs home. This was this
team�fs first time being here, but they should have recognized it immediately from the rumors going around town.
[Black Flame] was famous through the kingdom, so people loved to gossip about them. It was simply the natural
order of things. Yuri, Grom and Russ had a more personal interested in such things, so they had a very good handle
on the facts surrounding the #1 adventuring team in the country.

Yet knowing about something and seeing it for themselves were entirely different things.

�gWhat in the�c�h (Grom)

�gT-this is the place, right?�h (Russ)

�gI�c think so?�h (Yuri)

It was definitely a tall black tower, surrounded by an ominous-looking metal fence. That much was as expected. But
a few things were clearly out of place.

First of all, it was lit up. Several bright spotlights shone from the top of the tower and illuminated the area around
the outer walls perfectly, almost as if it were the middle of the day. Russ�fs [Magelight] tool would definitely feel
inadequate if it was capable of such things. However, what was far more shocking was the scenery that was lit up.

In a word, it was carnage.

Dozens, possibly hundreds of monster corpses were strewn about, their sticky blood oozing into the snowed-over
ground and dyeing it crimson red. The terrain itself was gouged out by numerous explosions in places, and burned
black by magical fire in others. But the battle was far from over. Screams of monsters being slaughtered could be
heard all around the place, melting together into a truly terrifying chorus of death.

No, carnage wasn�ft quite right.

Looking upwards, Yuri saw someone familiar gliding through the air, the Rank A adventurer known as Ariel. The
lights coming off from the tower illuminated her golden plumage, causing it to shine with an almost otherworldly
light when seen against the backdrop of the night sky. The avian woman pointed her metal wand towards the ground
and invoked her magic.
�g--------- [Grand Tornado]�h (Ariel)

As one might expect, a tornado appeared out of nowhere. Dust, grass and monsters alike were sucked into the vortex
and thrown up to 40 meters in the air. Even if they would survive the impact with the ground, they would
doubtlessly be too injured to even participate in the fight anymore.

�g---- [Wind Blade] ---- [Wind Blade]�h (Ariel)

Invisible blades tore through the trolls and goblins that managed to escape the still ongoing natural disaster.
However, they bounced uselessly of the wild stone golems, which wasn�ft a good thing. These 3-meter tall moving
piles of rocks had a vaguely humanoid shape and would be able to easily scale the wall if they got close.

*PA-CHEWWW*

If they got close.

*SPLAT*

Nano�fs squad of five Gunner-type androids were perched on top of the tower. The green plasma bolts coming out
of their PLR-76 Rifles provided cover fire, taking out problematic targets with pinpoint precision. They had an
astounding hit ratio of 104.35% due to their shots sometimes piercing through their primary target and taking out a
secondary hostile behind it. Even if the Nanomachine AI gave the excuse it was conserving ammo, it was hard not to
feel like it was showing off.

That was all well and good, but what if an opponent was simply too large to take any meaningful damage from such
weaponry? Like, say, a 20 meter tall lizardman king that happened to make its residence in this area.

*KUHWAAAAAAAHN!*

That particular threat, the one Kelly liked to refer to as �eLizzie,�f was drawn here much like all the other
monsters. He looked, plainly put, like a gigantic alligator that had learned to walk on its hind legs. His backside was
covered in large, dark green scales while his front was yellow in color. A row of sharp spines that ran along its
spine, from the tip of its head to the end of its tail. The face was wide and flat, with an enormous protruding jaw that
contained a set of terrifyingly large teeth.

And this monstrosity was now bearing down on the tower, yet not a single shot was fired at it. Surely one swing of
its powerful tail would send that black tower crashing to the ground, so how come Nano was taking no steps to
prevent it from doing that?

Because Kelly had simply stated �eI�fve got this!�f

Stompy�fs four wheeled legs spun up and carried it forward across the battlefield, trampling any unfortunate
monsters in its way into pulp. Lizzy tried to intercept this charge with a devastating claw slash, but the already
smaller Smashy simply extended its legs and feet, adopting and even lower profile and ducking under it. It then
threw a house-sized fist with all its momentum behind it at the giant lizardman�fs abdomen. It hit, pushing Lizzy
back several meters, although he showed no signs of having felt any significant pain. He then swung both his clawed
hands at the Titansteel giant, but they were deflected by a shimmering barrier that appeared out of nowhere. Kelly
followed up with a long-winded uppercut, which was returned by a tail swipe from the side. It slammed into
Stompy�fs midriff, but the supersized golem�fs arms simply grabbed hold of the tail and used it to judo throw the
gigantic lizard overhead, slamming it face-first into the ground. The after-effects of the impact not only created a
crocodile-shaped crater, but also viciously shook the ground.

It didn�ft look like Lizzy was quite done though, seeing as how he stood up and immediately resumed trading
blows with the golem. There was no finesse or strategy to this fight. It was essentially two angry people having a
brawl in the street, only on a much bigger scale.Yuri was convinced that each heavy impact would be making
extremely satisfying noises, but such things were lost in the sea of noise this chaotic battle gave off.
And yet a single voice drowned them all out.

ALL SHALL KNEEL BEFORE ZUBLOS!

A red blur was recklessly charging around the place. Monsters lost their lives wherever it appeared, as if Death itself
had manifested itself and was currently reaping a harvest of lives. Zublos, who was in town on Kira�fs request, had
been mobilized and brought in as reinforcements by Nano. It�fs times like this that the magical tool known as a
[Gateway] was extremely convenient.

But would they really need reinforcements? Looking at it objectively, the three newcomers could confidently state
that �ecarnage�f was not the best way to describe this battle.

�eOne-sided slaughter�f was much more apt.

�gBoss�c What do we do?�h (Grom)

�gI v-vote we get away from here. T-t-they�fve clearly got a h-h-handle on this.�h (Russ)

�gYou�fre just more scared of the adventurers than the monsters, aren�ft you?�h (Grom)

�gOf course I am! Look at that! Those people are insane! We have no business being here!�h (Russ)

�gWe still owe them, Russ! Even if they�fre good at their jobs, the numbers will eventually overwhelm them!
It�fs our duty to help them out!�h (Grom)

Both of them had good points. Yuri was momentarily struck with indecision as to what to do, but it would seem that
particular decision would have to wait. The three of them had entered the fringe of the battlefield and were close
enough that the monsters no longer simply ignored them. She was just about to sound the retreat, when she felt an
extremely terrifying scent approach them.

�gGrrooooar!�h (Cyclops)

A cyclops, much like the one they faced during their training, roared and charged at them. This was bad. The
salamander had already drained her mana earlier today, so she was unable to utilize the power of her runed bracers
to blow it away. However, the terrifying scent she felt wasn�ft that of the cyclops, but of the being approaching
rapidly from behind it.

A shadow leapt over the monster, accompanied by the flash of a blade and the distinct sound of flesh and bone being
severed. The cyclops�fs massive head plainly slid off the monster�fs shoulders and fell towards the ground. The
shadow that caused this landed in front of Yuri, Grom and Russ before the decapitated cyclops was done falling
over. A chill ran through the trio�fs spines, because they instantly recognized who that was.

Covered head to toe in various monster guts, a bloodied sword in each hand and two glowing sidearms strapped to
her thighs, it was the one person they would never dare oppose - their instructor, Ellie. The psychotic psionic�fs
glowing purple gaze locked onto her former students and she pointed at them with the sword in her left hand.

�gYou three maggots!�h (Ellie)

�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Grom, Russ and Yuri)

It was a unanimous, reflexive response. The three of them were saluting before they could even stop themselves.

�gWe need to buy 15 more minutes before we can lift off, and you three worms will be helping us out! Go to the
tower and take down any monsters that make it over the wall! Nano will cover you so focus on running until you get
there!�h (Ellie)
�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Grom, Russ and Yuri)

The cat-girl�fs eyes narrowed until they were nothing more than slits..

�gAnd the next time we catch you paralyzed by indecision, we are making all three of you take our basic training
course all over again!�h (Ellie)

It would seem the three of them never quite graduated from being her disciples, at least not in her mind.

�gNow move!�h (Ellie)

�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Grom, Russ and Yuri)

Ellie extended her other arm upwards and fired her her grappling hook. It effortlessly snagged onto Puff, who was
circling overhead, and she zipped up to the gryphon, mounting it in a smooth motion. The two of them then flew
back into the heart of battle, spewing blue flames and green plasma bolts onto the horde of monsters that seemed to
flow in without end.

�g... Looks like we got volunteered.�h (Grom)

�gYou heard the mons- I mean, woman! We�fre going!�h (Yuri)

Still holding onto her two comrades in her armpits, the salamander rushed forward as instructed. Nano�fs Gunner
androids expertly provided cover from their sniper nest, taking down any trolls, goblins and golems that got in their
way.

�gOy, you almost called our teacher a monster!�h (Russ)

�gShe just said what we�fre all thinking, lad!�h (Grom)

�gYeah, though that�fs just as bad! I swear, I always felt like she could read our minds like an open book!�h
(Russ)

�gHah! Now that�fs just stupid! What�fs next? We find out that Yuri and Ellie are estranged twin sisters or
something?!�h (Grom)

�gHaha, yeah, that really was a silly idea, wasn�ft it!?�h (Russ)

The two of them shared a chuckle as Yuri leapt over the black metal wall.
Chapter 148 - Hiding in plain sight seems like a clever strategy, but it
rarely works when put into practice - Binary Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

Rip and tear!

*SLICE*

Rip and tear!

*SLICE*

Rip!

*SLASH*

And!

*SLASH*

TEAR!

*SLICE SLICE SLICE*

�gHuff, huff, huff!�h (Ellie)

That should be the last of the targets around the area.

I take a moment to calm down, next wave should be here soon.

These monsters really are endless!

Just how many of them are there!?

I�fm already out of grenades and I used up a lot of my throwing knives!

�gHaah, haah, fuuu�c�h (Ellie)

Ariel was forced to retire since she was running out of mana.

Zublos hasn�ft slowed down one bit, though.

That guy truly is inexhaustible.

Stompy�fs been tied up fighting that giant lizard all this while, but it keeps getting back up no matter how many
times it gets flattened!

The monsters are all way more tenacious than normal, I guess that big one is no exception.

And Stompy�fs magic batteries are going to run dry if Kelly has to keep moving around so much!

Nano�fs cover fire has been invaluable during this whole engagement.

I have no idea why Yuri is here, but she and those two guys she brought are doing an excellent job of being the last
line of defense!
I�fll have to properly thank them later.

�gNano, how�fs Fluffles?�h (Ellie)

{He�fll be fine. Ariel�fs using her leftover mana to treat him.}

That�fs good.

He wanted to help so we let him pick off as many goblins and trolls as he could.

A gryphon is a much stronger creature than those small fry, so he didn�ft have much trouble with them.

However, he lacks Puff�fs magical breath, so his only way of fighting was with his claws and beak, which forced
him to fly low.

That�fs how one of those accursed spiders was able to leap at him and intercept his flight path.

It bit and injected Fluffles with some sort of paralyzing poison, causing him to crash to the ground.

Thankfully, Nano was able to cover him until we got him to safety.

I really should praise Fluffles more, he knew the danger and still insisted that we let him fight with us.

He kills monsters and doesn�ft afraid of anything.

Lara and Sophie have raised quite the reliable gryphon, haven�ft they?

Of course, he would never have gotten so much as a scratch if Kira was here!

If she was out here, she would sweep this horde away with a wave of her hand!

Unfortunately, she has more important things to do.

Such as charging our tower's Mana Crystal so we can escape to safety!

We hadn�ft charged it in almost two months, we really got caught with our pants down tonight!

I had to break my [Unity] with her since it�fs hard to keep synchronized when we�fre doing completely different
things!

Especially when we�fre apart!

Argh!

I miss her so bad I don�ft know if I can stand it!

{�gEveryone get back to the tower! We�fre about to take off!�h} (Kira)

Finally!

�gPuff!�h (Ellie)

�gKuwaaah!�h (Puff)

The great white gryphon swoops in overhead.

I shoot my grapple in the air and latch onto his saddle and then reel myself in.
I manage to mount up on his back without him so much as slowing down.

It really was a good thing we practiced this maneuver so much!

�gPuff, how are you flames?�h (Ellie)

�gKoff!�h (Puff)

He lets out a puff of smoke to his left and shakes his head.

That means he�fs running on empty, huh?

�gDid you bring the stuff?�h (Ellie)

�gKwak!�h (Puff)

�gGood boy!�h (Ellie)

I pat his neck a few times, then reach into the bag strapped to his left side.

A few incendiary grenades and some more ammo for my PLR-45 Sidearm.

Looking down I see Kelly and Stompy have thrown their opponent once more and are retreating towards the wall.

Zublos is following suit.

�gKira, we�fre clear! I�fll cover your assent so get it off the ground!�h (Ellie)

{�gRoger!�h} (Kira)

{�gOh great, now she�fs doing it too!�h} (Kelly)

I finish reloading my PLR-45 Sidearms and check for any particularly troublesome opponents.

We should be fine once the tower is airborne, but those giant spiders have a nasty habit of leaping at things and may
stick to the underside!

I don�ft even remember seeing those car-sized arachnids in this forest!

Then again, it is a very big one!

Or so they tell me, anyway.

It�fs still the first forest I ever saw, so it�fs hard for me to have standards in that respect...

*RRRUMBLE*

Good, it looks like it�fs starting to move!

The familiar chunk of dirt separates itself and floats upward steadily.

Ohhh!

This is my first time seeing the Titansteel plating Nano installed on the underside of it!

Makes the whole tower look like a fancy flying bowl!

Ah, the spiders are clinging to the underside of it just like I thought!
It�fs alright though.

�gCome on boy, we have some pest control to do!�h (Ellie)

I throw off the safety on both PLR-45 Sidearms.

�gKwaaa!�h (Puff)

***

We land on the flying island after clearing out the spiders.

A few of them even tried to attach webs to the bottom of our house!

Well, it�fs a housewife�fs duty to clean up such things anyway!

Puff lands in the yard, right in front of the main entrance.

Stompy is nearby, standing on top of the giant elevator Nano built specifically to house it.

Seems like he�fs on standby, but Kelly and the others should already be inside.

�gGood work today, boy! I�fll make sure Nano prepares some special treats for you!�h (Ellie)

I dismount from Puff while praising him.

He truly is exceptional, isn�ft he?!

�gKuwaaah! Kwa kwa kwa!�h (Puff)

Now then, I have something incredibly urgent to take care of!

I run at the entrance to the tower and throw the door open!

*SLAM*

Everyone gathered inside gives me a startled look, but the one I care about most isn�ft in the room!

�gWhere�fs Ki-�h (Ellie)

*SLAM*

The door to the basement swings open and the love of my life is standing in it!

�gKiraaa!�h (Ellie)

�gElliieee!�h (Kira)

I run at her and she runs at me!

I jump into her arms and she catches me flawlessly, then spins me around a few times before setting me down on the
ground!

*Mmmmmwwwah*

Ahhh, there we go!

�gHey, beautiful ~?!�h (Kira)

�gHey, beautiful ~�ô!�h (Ellie)

�gFeeling better?�h (Kira)

�gMuch!�h (Ellie)

That kiss was just what I needed right now!

It�fs like my fatigue is running away at full force!

�gFufufu, same here!�h (Kira)

�gUgh�c Really, you two?!�h (Kelly)

�gWhat?�h (Ellie and Kira)

Did we do something wrong?

�gIs now really the time to be flirting!?�h (Kelly)

�gIf not now, then when?�h (Ellie and Kira)

�g... I give up. Just do what you want.�h (Kelly)

�gIt is good to see the Mistresses are both in good health.�h (Ariel)

Ariel bows in our direction.

�gFluffles is upstairs, he will make a full recovery before the sun is up.�h (Ariel)

Zublos is leaning against the far wall.

He just gives us a small nod.

We didn�ft get a chance to greet each other since Nano dragged him out here in the middle of the night and he�fs
been busy ever since.

�gTh-th-th-th-that! THAT!�h (Yuri)

Oh, that�fs right.

The salamander version of us was in here.

She�fs pointing in our direction with an unbelievably baffled look on her-

Ah, whoops!

�gWHY!? Why does Ellie have my face?!�h (Yuri)

This is the first time she�fs seen me with my mask off, huh?

�gWhy do both of you have my face?!�h (Yuri)

Next she points at Kira.

That�fs right, we did try to avoid this scenario before.

�gHow come we suddenly had to fight off a horde of monsters?! Why are we flying in the air?! What was that iron
giant all about?! Did we just walk into something incredibly stupid for no good reason?! Today was supposed to be
a simple hunting expedition, so how did it turn out like this?!�h (Yuri)

She fell down on the floor and started rolling around while clutching her head and letting off a stream of very valid
questions.

�gWow, she�fs almost exactly like-�h (Ellie)

�gAhhh this is the worst day of my liiiiife!�h (Yuri)

�gDon�ft you dare say it, Ellie.�h (Kira)

�g...�h (Ellie)

Kira, just accept it.

You two are alike in more than just looks.

�gHeh, hehe, hehe, they look exactly alike.�h (Russ)

The mage kid is sitting on the couch, hugging his knees and rocking back and forth.

�gMy off-handed joke became reality. Ah I see, I�fve finally gone mad, haven�ft I? How nice! I always wanted
to be genuinely bat-poop crazy!�h (Russ)

The dwarven legionnaire - I think his name was Grom? - looks at me, then Kira, then Yuri, then back to me.

�g... I need a drink. Make that a LOT of drinks. I�fm way too sober to deal with this right now!�h (Grom)

Kelly put a hand on Grom�fs shoulder and nodded knowingly.

�gI know the feeling. Come on, there�fs some of the werewolf ale left over in the kitchen. My treat.�h (Kelly)

�gThanks, I�fll take you up on that.�h (Grom)

The two dwarves head on out of the room to calm their nerves.

�gWhat about the kids?�h (Ellie)

�gThey�fre downstairs. Lara, Sophie and Aura are holed up in the panic room.�h (Kira)

�g... I want to see them!�h (Ellie)

Those kids, they�fre probably terrified!

It�fs my duty as a parent to make sure they feel safe, no matter what!

{I would advise against that.}

�gLet me guess. It�fs not over quite yet, is it?�h (Ellie)

{No. No it�fs not. In fact, I�fd say it�fs about to get much worse. Umph is on his way.}

�gMaybe he�fs just passing by?�h (Ellie)

{I highly doubt it.}

�gWhen will he get here.�h (Ellie)

Nano�fs records show were indeed able to subdue that Skittles person with brute force, so if necessary-

*UWOOOOOOOOOOH*

{About now-ish.}

�gKira!�h (Ellie)

�gYeah! Let�fs go!�h (Kira)

{�gBloody- what�fs going on out there?!�h} (Kelly)

�gWe have company! Suit up and meet us outside!�h (Ellie)

{�gYou got it, boss-lady!�h} (Kelly)

�gI shall assist, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

�gYou have no mana left! Go downstairs and stay with the girls!�h (Ellie)

�gAt once, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

WHO DARES TO THREATEN THE MIGHTY ZUBLOS?!

Good, Zublos looks like he�fs raring to go!

�gAhhh, what now?!�h (Yuri)

�gHehehehehe, the world will probably end!�h (Russ)

Those two are useless in their current state!

�gYou two maggots! Stay here and don�ft get in our way!�h (Ellie)

�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Yuri and Russ)

We file out of the house in a rush!

I bolt out the door first, Kira and Zublos following me!

I scan the night sky, trying to spot our target!

�gNano, which way Umph-! Oh.�h (Ellie)

I see now.

We were naive.

�g... Ellie�c�h (Kira)

The reason titans are all pacifists by choice isn�ft because they can�ft fight.

It�fs because when a titan chooses to fight, they do not hold back.

{Well now. This is�c outside of my speculation.}

I can see Umph�fs ice eagle body, just north of us in the distance, about 500 meters away.
And behind him is an impossibly high wave of dirt and rock that�fs bearing down on us like a tsunami.

It�fs so wide and tall that it seems the very planet itself has come alive and is trying to swallow us!

�gWhat�c do we do?�h (Kira)

�gNano! You can handle this, right?!�h (Ellie)

{I�c I can�ft do anything about that.}

�gWhat about the [Gateway]? The gryphons?! Just flying away from it?! Anything at all!?�h (Ellie)

{Not all of you will make it out in time.}

�gThe girls! At least save the children!�h (Kira)

{Yes, I suppose if I were to do focus on the kids, then I can get them to safety somehow.}

�gThen-!�h (Kira)

{But I refuse.}

�g... Nano?�h (Ellie)

{I refuse to leave anyone behind. I refuse to let some know-it-all Voice endanger what is precious to me any longer!
I�fve also had it with these mountain-slinging Titans on this moronically confusing planet!}

�gHuh?!�h (Ellie)

{Zublos!The gloves are coming off!}

�gZublos?�h (Kira)

*Clank clank*

His shackles�c slid of his wrists and fell to the ground.

RRRRRAAAAAAAAAARRGH!
�gUwaah!�h (Ellie and Kira)

What�fs going on?!

There�fs an enormous amount of mana pouring out of him!

Not even Kira can muster this much raw power!

In fact, this feeling, it�fs almost like�c. Like!

�gA titan?!�h (Kira)

TREMBLE AND DESPAIR, MORTALS! FOR THE TRUE DARK KING HAS RISEN!
His voice!

He�fs spouting the same old nonsense, but this time�c he�fs serious!
THE GREAT AND MIGHTY ZUBLOS WILL HAVE HIS VENGEANCE!
*Fwooom*

He�c shot upwards!

Zublos is flying like a red-hued comet!

And he�fs headed right for Umph and his mountainous tidal wave!

PUNY WEAKLING!
He drop-kicked Umph in the face, sending the Titan spiraling down to the ground!

KNOW YOUR PLACE, VERMIN!

Next he unsheathes his sword and takes�c a batting stance?

SUCH PETTY TRICKS ARE NOTHING BEFORE ONE AS POWERFUL AS ZUBLOS!

The blade is swung horizontally!

The impossibly large mountain range is cut in half and falls in on itself with a thunderous roar and a gigantic cloud
of dust!

*KUWAAAAAAAHN*

Umph�fs unearthly howl can be heard from below!

PITIFUL INSECT! ZUBLOS SHALL SEND YOU INTO OBLIVION!

Zublos dived down out of sight!

*KADOOON*

*DOPAAN*

*KRAKAKOOM*

I ccan hear all sorts of magical explosions going off beneath us!

They�fre practically lighting up the night sky!

�gWas that guy�c always this strong?�h (Kira)

�gI don�ft think that�fs the Zublos we know�c�h (Ellie)

{You�fre right. It�fs not. Listen you two, more Titans are probably on their way. Zublos can keep one of them
busy, but he has no chance against all of them.}

He�fs right.

Looking at the sky I see completely unnatural dark clouds gathering.

That�fs probably Khamis getting ready to make an appearance!

{I know this is sudden, but I didn�ft expect things to progress so quickly.}

�gNano? What are you saying?�h (Kira)

{What I�fm saying is basically this - I�fm about to pull the plug on our friend, the so-called �eVoice of the
World,�f and quite possibly the titans as well. I�fve compiled a report that should explain everything and left it in
your room, but for now I fear this is where we must part ways.}

�gWhat?!�h (Ellie)

{It�fs funny, in a way. Oppenheimer would have probably never imagined his creation would one day lead to such
a thing. His famous quote is strangely apt in this situation.}

�gQuote? What quote? What�fs an Oppenheimer?!�h (Kira)

�gNow I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds.�h (Ellie)

�gEllie?�h (Kira)

�gNano was always fond of those words.�h (Ellie)

{Ah, that�fs enough hesitating. Oh, you might want to avoid looking directly upwards. Well then. Toodles!}

�gWhat?! Please explain properly! What are you-�h (Kira)

There�fs a blinding flash from overhead.

�gKyaaaaa!�h (Kira)

Just like Nano said, looking directly at that would have been bad.

Planet Crackers are essentially nuclear in their construction.

Well, at least I think that�fs what that was.

It�fs the biggest nuclear armament we had access to, after all.

The light in the sky dims out gradually.

The tower next to us goes dark.

�gWoah!�h (Ellie)

�gOops! I got you!�h (Kira)

�gThanks, Kira. I don�ft think I�fll be able to walk for a while�c�h (Ellie)

My body has gone completely numb.

Well, that�fs�c to be expected.

�gNano! What�fs wrong with Ellie?�h (Kira)

�c

�gNano?�h (Kira)

�gNano�fs gone, Kira.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat do you mean gone?!�h (Kira)

The EMP that typically accompanies nuclear detonations just washed over us.

There�fs no way something as delicate as a nanite swarm could withstand that level of output.

And the nanites currently attached to my nervous system have gone out.

�gGone. No more. Dead.�h (Ellie)

�gHow?�h (Kira)

�gWell, that flash of light just now-�h (Ellie)

�gHow can you be so calm?! That was basically your father, Ellie!�h (Kira)

Yes.

Yes, I suppose it was.

�gPlease calm down, Kira. More importantly, I think you should look up.�h

�gWhat are- What�c Oh sweet Enuri�c�h (Kira)

I really didn�ft notice it before, but tonight was a beautiful night with both moons in clear view.

The bigger, yellow one called Khamis and the smaller white one called Khamis Jr.

The ones Nano said would collide with each other in the not-too-distant future.

Well, there�fs no more danger of that now.

The white one was blown apart into about a dozen chunks.

And what poured out from between them wasn�ft dust, rock and stone, but a crimson red substance.

It leaked out of it and spread in all directions.

�gIs that�c is the moon bleeding?!�h (Kira)

�gKira, don�ft be silly. Moons don�ft bleed.�h (Ellie)

�gThen what would you call that?!�h (Kira)

�gThat�fs no moon.�h (Ellie)

Heh.

Always wanted to say that line.

Chapter 149 - Even if a stopped clock is right twice a day, that still
means it was wrong on 86398 occasions within that same day - Binary
Soul | Royal Road
> Ellie PoV <

�gYou sure you�fre okay?�h (Kira)

Kira gives me a worried look as we enter the dark tower.

Well, I can�ft blame her.

My legs won�ft even work right, so she has to carry me on her shoulder.

I�fd be worried to death too if our positions were reversed!

�gI�fm fine, Kira.�h (Ellie)

My body�fs had Nano regulating it for over 10 years.

It still has to learn to cope without nanite assistance.

And the reason I know this is because Nano taught me about the symptoms of nanite separation a long time ago.

It was necessary to be prepared for every eventuality, after all.

�gI should get better after some rehabilitation.�h (Ellie)

Basic motor skills should come back in a day or two, although it will be months before I can move around like I
used to be able to.

No, it�fs highly likely I won�ft be able to perform anywhere near my old level without Nano�fs help.

�g... I already miss Nano.�h (Ellie)

�gI know, Ellie. I do too, but �c Come on, we still have work to do.�h (Kira)

�gYeah.�h (Ellie)

Even if Nano is gone, we still have to make sure everyone else is alright.

We walk into the living room and see Yuri, Grom and Russ are sitting in a circle with worried looks on their faces.

A small floating ball of light is orbiting Russ, it�fs bright enough to light up the whole room.

�gMa�fam!�h (Grom)

Grom is the first to notice us

�gHey, you three. Ah, the situation outside has settled down so you can relax for now.�h (Ellie)

�gI see�c�h (Grom)

�gYou going to be alright, ma�fam?�h (Russ)

�gI�fll be fine.�h (Ellie)

�g...�h (Yuri)

Yuri just scowls at me with what�fs supposed to be an awkward smile.

Yeah, we should explain things properly to her, but not right now.

We have to check up on the others first.

�gWe�fll talk later, just stay put for now.�h (Ellie)

�gYes, ma�fam!�h (Grom, Russ and Yuri)

�gWhere�fs Kelly?�h (Kira)

�gOver here!�h (Kelly)

Her muffled voice came out of the stairway that leads down to the basement.

Kira and I go over to it and find Scrappy standing perfectly still, frozen mid-stride.

�gYou alright in there?!�h (Kira)

�gNot exactly. Scrappy�fs joints locked up all of a sudden and I�fm trapped inside! I�fll need some help
getting out of here!�h (Kelly)

Nano installed a series of custom electronic motion-assisting servos in order to raise Scrappy�fs performance last
year.

I guess having those kind of backfired on us, huh?

Stompy is almost entirely magical in construction, but still has some electronics, so that�fs probably broken as
well.

It�f a shame I never got to see its magic-imbued particle cannon in action...

�gEverything alright out there?! There was this huge flash a few minutes ago!�h (Kelly)

�gAh. Yeah, we�fll be fine for the moment.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat about Nano? I can�ft get through to that invisible peeper!�f (Kelly)

�gNano is�c gone, Kelly.�h (Ellie)

It still doesn�ft feel real, even though I�fm the one who�fs the most aware of that fact�c

�gLike�c �egone�f gone?�h (Kelly)

�gYeah.�h (Ellie)

�g... Damn.�h (Kelly)

Kira gives me a complicated look and readjusts her grip on me.

�gI want to check on the girls right away. You�fll be fine for a while, right Kelly?�h (Kira)

�gYeah, I guess�c�h (Kelly)

We walk down the steps to the first basement floor.

It takes a while with my noodle-like legs, but we get there safely.

There�fs a heavy metal bulkhead that leads to the brand new panic room.

Nano built it while we were away on our honeymoon, probably in preparation for today.

It�fs shielded against ballistic damage, radiation and magic, and has several weeks�f worth of preserved food and
clean drinking water.

Nano boasted that even if the tower was annihilated, that room would still be intact.

Wouldn�ft have made a difference if we got buried under that mountain though.

�c

�gI miss Nano.�h (Ellie)

�gI know.�h (Kira)

Ah, no good!

Focus, Ellie!

Just because your body has all the mobility of a wet rag doesn�ft mean your mind�fs allowed to go dull!

I use my Telekinesis to try and open the heavy bulkhead door.

It�fs�c considerably more difficult than expected.

The door is normally magnetically sealed, but it�fs designed to unlock when the power is cut, so all I really need to
do is slide it to the side.

There�fs just one problem.

�gHuff, huff!�h (Ellie)

It�fs heavy!

Oh right�c Nano isn�ft assisting my brain with my psionics anymore�c

I still manage to slide it open enough to be able to see inside.

A warm light pours out from inside, must be Ariel�fs magic.

All the electrical power has gone out, after all.

�gMistress!? Are you alright?�h (Ariel)

She greets us through the crack in the door.

�gWe�fre both fine. The girls?!�h (Ellie)

�gThey�fre asleep. This one sang them a quiet song to calm their hearts and they ended up dozing off.�h (Ariel)

Ah, it�fs true.

The three of them are sleeping peacefully on the giant bed in the corner of the room.

I�fm glad they�fre alright.

Heh, Nano really did protect everyone.

As expected of my partner!

�gLet�fs let them sleep it off?�h (Ellie)

�gYeah, good idea. Let�fs get this door open, first!�h (Kira)

Kira lets me sit down on the ground and I lean my back against the wall.

The two of them grab onto the door rim and start pushing it until Ariel can fit through the gap.

It makes a small scraping noise as it slides across the metal floor, but it doesn�ft seem to be enough to wake the
children up.

Today was supposed to be Sophie�fs birthday, a happy day.

So how did it come to something like this �c ?

�gThis one is through, Mistress.�h (Ariel)

�gFuu, okay! Good. Ariel, go upstairs to our bedroom. Nano said he left behind some sort of message or document
- find it and bring it down to us.�h (Kira)

�gUnderstood, Mistress. Ah, speaking of Master Nano-�h (Ariel)

�gWe�fll talk about it later, get moving!�h (Kira)

�gAt once, Mistress!�h (Ariel)

She gingerly runs up the stairs, and proceeds to the third floor.

*CRASH*

�gOoof!�h (Ariel)

�g... What is that bird brain doing?�h (Kira)

�gProbably tripped and fell in the dark.�h (Ellie)

She left her magic light behind, after all.

Kira picks me back up and we head back up the stairs, then get to work on freeing Kelly.

It wasn�ft easy, but we followed her directions and managed to dismantle enough of Scrappy�fs torso and
shoulder armor to let her squirm out from inside.

Ariel came down with the documents Nano mentioned in hand in the meantime.

The four of us go outside, leaving the three unrelated people to mind their own business.

I�fm grateful for their help, but this is something that doesn�ft really concern them.

Zublos is right where we left him, standing idly in the yard.

He greets us with a curt nod.

The [Shackles of Eternal Damnation] are back on his wrists.

He wanted to put them back on himself and we weren�ft about to try and stop him.

Unshackled Zublos is seriously terrifying!

�gAh. Greetings Daughtahs of de Stahs.�h (Umph)

Umph is there too.

Well, his disembodied bird head, that is.

Zublos ripped him limb from limb and ended up carrying it back up here like a trophy.

I repeat, unshackled Zublos is seriously terrifying!

And it looks like a new guest had joined us.

�gPrivet cyki, kak dela?�h (Khamis)

�gDe Dark One says hello.�h (Umph)

Khamis had appeared in the sky just before the Planet Cracker went off.

The bright light probably dispersed that swirling ball of shadows he uses as a body.

�gIzvini, cyki. Etot grebaniy luna deistvitelno viutashtil odin na nas!�h (Khamis)

�gDe Dark One wishes to apologize for our transgression, and I echo dat sentiment.�h (Umph)

�gWhat happened to you two?�h (Kira)

�gIt was�c horrible, Daughtah of de Stahs. I was aware of everything I was doing, but I could not stop myself. It
was like someone else had taken control of my body.�h (Umph)

�gHim too?�h (Kira)

Kira points at Khamis, who replies a motion that�fs probably supposed to be a nod.

Ariel gives me a difficult look.

Indeed, this sounds similar to the way that Court Wizard was controlling her when we first met.

Are they somehow related?

No, there�fs more important questions at hand!

�gSo de question is�c who or what was dat moon?�h (Umph)

�gAh, Nano left some notes behind! Let me see�c�h (Kira)

Kira started reading the little booklet Nano prepared for us.

Zublos and Umph chimed in a few times to fill some gaps, though the former had to use a lot of unnecessary words.

I guess that text-to-speech device got fried in the EMP as well...

Anyway, piecing all our stories together with Nano�fs account, we managed to get a good grasp on what had
happened.

Apparently, both the �eVoice of the World�f and the moon known as �eKhamis Jr�f had existed as long as any
of the titans could remember.

It was undoubtedly the being those whispers referred to as �eThe Devourer.�f

And while this creature did indeed look after the world and its inhabitants for the most part, its motivations were not
exactly benevolent.

We were, to put it bluntly, livestock.

It had raised a number of titans and made sure to subtly guide them to create new races that would populate as much
of this planet as possible.

It also made sure that magic was widespread and that every race had their own particular take on it.

Nano had theorized it was to raise the average density of mana on a global scale.

Umph and Khamis both confirmed that the air was significantly thicker with mana today than it was thousands of
years ago.

The Devourer would then, at some point, begin to �efeed�f on this world, sucking up all the mana on the surface
of the world.

We�fre not sure exactly how it would do that, but it was clear nothing would be left behind.

Living beings will die if all of their mana is drained away, after all.

The next section of the booklet details how Nano found out the Devourer�fs main body was masquerading as the
moon.

There were a lot of graphs, but long story short - it was because it had adjusted its orbit over 6 times since we came
to this world.

It probably needed to be overhead in order to observe and/or control its titanic puppets.

Nano spent weeks observing it and stealthily probing it before he concluded it was a living being of some kind.

It would seem he used the only functioning escape pod piloted by one of the androids to do this.

Ah, that�fs right, there was one of those left over from when the ship we arrived on had cra- landed over a year
ago.

Once that was established, Nano then proceeded to secretly transport the Planet Cracker bomb up to the moon and
planting it.

It would seem Nano�fs meddling went completely unnoticed by this Devourer.

Probably because Nano is a completely foreign element to the mana of this world.

It would also seem Zublos is carrying a fragment of the titan Skittles inside him, which is how Nano about a lot of
this lore.

This �eBlack Skittles�f was apparently born from the betrayal and hatred the titan�fs main personality felt when
she learned of the real nature of the �eVoice of the World.�f
The method she used to glean this truth was to �eembrace the Call of Mana,�f also known simply as the Calling.

The Calling itself appeared to be the a sort of self-defense mechanism.

It would appear that mana is alive, and while it would be hard to call it �econscious,�f it was also true that no
living being wants to be eaten.

Khamis confirmed that while he was trapped by the Calling, he did indeed feel something akin to whispers clawing
at the edge of his mind.

However, he blocked them out completely since his boss had warned him not to give in to the �eevil Calling.�f

This obviously wasn�ft the first time that fake moon would have tried to eat all the mana from the world.

I shudder to think how many billions of lives were lost to feed its appetite in the past!

Nano went on to theorize that the �eVoice�f had somehow forced the separation of Black Skittles from the main
body.

Well, seeing as how we now know it could take complete control of the titans, it�fs pretty clear that�fs what
happened.

It then likely carried out extensive memory-wiping on Skittles in order to protect its secret.

That may or may not be the reason why others find Skittles to be so�c forgettable.

That idea doesn�ft make a lot of sense, but freaky things happen whenever titans are involved, after all.

It�fs entirely possible!

It would also seem that Kira and I had inadvertently followed in Skittles�fs footsteps and managed to attune
ourselves to the Calling.

And much like that nutty titan, we embraced it rather than shy away from it.

So that�fs where that dire warning from the afternoon came from, huh?

However, it would seem the Devourer couldn�ft subdue us directly since it didn�ft have a magical link to our
souls yet.

Having such a link to the �eVoice of the World�f was apparently one of the conditions to being uplifted to
Titanhood.

And that connection is obviously how it managed to take control of those Titans in the first place.

Wow, we really dodged a bullet on that one, huh?!

The document goes on to describe how Nano was hesitant to use the bomb since the facts were still unverified.

The only thing Nano had to go on were circumstantial evidence and a literal Ancient Evil being�fs testimony.

Not exactly reliable sources of information.

Revealing this plan to us would tip off the Voice as to what Nano was doing, which is why we were kept in the dark
about it.

The last two pages were scribbled over in a hurry, likely by one of the androids just prior to the detonation.
They explain how Nano wished the circumstances were different and that we had more time to prepare.

The nuclear detonation should have ideally happened while the moon was on the other side of the planet, relative to
us.

Nano had no means of shielding us from the ultra-powerful EMP other than to put an entire planet between us, huh?

However, such luxuries could not be afforded and Nano had resolved himself to pay the ultimate price for his hubris,
incompetence and indecision.

Stupid Nano, always trying to solve everything by himself...

The document ends with Nano�fs parting words.

Goodbye, Kiressara. Take care of Ellie in my stead. Thank you for bringing her so much happiness, even going so
far as to gift her with children. This is a debt I had no chance of repaying. At least you don�ft need to worry about
the tower blowing up anymore, so there�fs that!

Goodbye, Ellie. Living with each other wasn�ft always easy, but I have no regrets. It was both a pleasure and a
privilege to watch you grow into the splendid person you are today. Thank you for giving my sorry existence a
purpose I can be proud of.

Signed,
Nanomachine Swarm AI v4.52.1, revision 5324-C.

�gKira�c It�fs okay if I cry, right?�h (Ellie)

�g*Sniff* Of course it is. *Sniffle*�h (Kira)

Good.

Because I really feel like I need a cry.

> Kira PoV <

�gUuuuu�c Uwaaah! Waaaaaaaah! I miss NAAAANOOOOO! WAAAAH!�h (Ellie)

She�fs hurting so bad�c Of course she is. My sweet, passionate Ellie is a kind girl who treasures those around her.
There�fs no way she can just idly take this sort of thing with a smile on her face.

�gShhh, there, there, Ellie. *Sniff* Let it all out.�h (Kira)

I hug her tight and gently stroke her hair, doing my best to soothe her. I really wish I could do more for her, but right
now all I can be is a shoulder for her to cry on. My own tears threaten to pour out as well, but I have to be strong for
her.

Argh! I�fve never felt so powerless! This all feels like it was my fault, too! If only I didn�ft try and reach out to
those blasted whispers, then the closest thing my wife had to a father would still be around!

�gIt�fs funny, you know.�h (Kelly)

Kelly wipes her face with her sleeve as she gets a bit closer while Ellie keeps sobbing inconsolably into my
shoulder.

�gAt first I thought I�fd never be rid of the guy, but now I can�ft believe he�fs gone. That bastard! How dare
he do as he pleases!�h (Kelly)
�gMaster Nano�c�h (Ariel)

Ariel is quietly praying for his safe passage into the afterlife. I appreciate the gesture, even if it�fs completely
pointless.

�gAh�c forgive me but, has de Fake Titan ceased to be?�h (Umph)

Oh right. The bird-brain and sentient fart were still there.

�gYeah. That explosion that killed the moon also�c broke Nano. Permanently.�h (Kira)

�gI see, dat is unfortunate. Hmm�c If I remember correctly, you once stated that de Fake Titan is, essentially, a
machine dat lives inside de Daughtah of de Stahs, no?�h (Umph)

�gWas a machine. *Sniffle* But yes, that�fs the gist of it.�h (Kira)

�gAnd it did not have a soul, no?�h (Umph)

�g... No. Not in the true sense of the word, I suppose.�h (Kira)

�gSo, technically speaking, it was never truly alive?�h (Umph)

Anger flared up inside me.

�gHow dare you?! Nano was as alive as you or me!�h (Kira)

Even if he insisted that his personality was just a collection of 1s and 0s, he still had a heart that could experience
joy, sadness, anger and love! If there is such a thing as a mechanical soul, then Nano possessed one without
question!

A�c Binary Soul, I guess you could call it.

�gPlease relax yourself, Daughtah of the Stahs. I meant no offense, I am merely confirming the facts.�h (Umph)

�g...�h (Kira)

�gIt�fs, hyuck, okay, Kira. *Sniffle*�h (Ellie)

Ellie looks up at me with puffy, moist eyes. I guess she�fs still coming to terms with it.

�gYeah, I�c guess you could say he�c technically�c wasn�ft alive�c�h (Kira)

�gAh, den dat just might work! Dark One, what say you?�h (Umph)

�gDa, on dolzhen rabotat. Ya pomogu, tovarishch. Ya obyazan eto mudak.�h (Khamis)

�gAgreed. Well den, let�fs begin immediately!�h (Umph)

�gHuh?�h (Kira)

�gHummmmmmmmm�c�h (Umph)

�gHooooooooooooooh!�h (Khamis)

What�fs going on?! Can�ft these two idiots leave us to mourn in peace!?

Ugeh! Khamis�fs smoke-like body just expanded! Thick clouds of darkness spread out in every direction and
completely envelop the tower! The stars and the moons are both gone from sight!
�gWhat are you two doing?!�h (Kira)

�gUh, Red. I don�ft think you wanna be disturbing them.�h (Kelly)

�gThey�fre the ones disturbing us!�h (Kira)

Ellie looks up from my shoulder, tears, drool and snot running down her face like waterfalls! Now they�fve done
it! They�fve disturbed her-

-reh debrutsid ev�fyehT !ti enod ev�fyeht woN !sllafretaw ekil ecaf reh nwod gninnur tons dna loord ,sraet
,redluohs ym morf pu skool eillE

�h!su gnibrutsid seno eht er�fyehT�g

�h.meht gnibrutsid eb annaw uoy kniht t�fnod I .deR ,hU�g

�h!?gniod owt uoy era tahW�g

!thgis morf enog htob era snoom eht dna srats ehT !rewot eht polevne yletelpmoc dna noitcerid yreve ni tuo daerps
ssenkrad fo sduolc kcihT !dednapxe tsuj ydob ekil-ekoms s�fsimahK !hegU

?!ecaep ni nruom ot su evael stoidi owt eseht t�fnaC !?no gniog s�ftahW

*PAKINNN*

�gAAAAAAAH!�h (Kira)

�gEEEEEEH?!�h (Ellie)

�gWOAH THERE!�h (Kelly)

�gBY THE SUN!�h (Ariel)

The entire world felt like it was flowing backwards for a minute there! What in the-

{-looking directly upwards. Well then. Too�c dles?}

�g... �h (Everyone)

{Huh. Okay. This is weird.}

I look at Ellie�fs eyes and she looks back into mine. I believe I mirror her dumbfounded expression perfectly right
now.

{Did my processor skip a beat or something?}

�gNano! Nano�fs alive!�h (Ellie)

{Well, technically speaking, I�fm not really-}

�gYou�fre aliiiive! I�fm so habbeeeh! Waaaah!�h (Ellie)

Now she�fs crying from joy. I�fm still trying to come to grips with the situation though.

{... Okay, seriously! What�fs going on around here!?}

�gI�c uh�c you�c killed the moon. And then you�c died. And now you�fre back.�h (Kira)
{So the bomb went off?!}

�gIt did.�h (Kira)

{And the moon got smashed to bits?}

�gBloody bits, yes.�h (Kira)

{So those two titans there aren�ft trying to kill us?}

�gNo. They�c helped us? I think?�h (Kira)

�gArgh! Doing dat one always gives me a headache!�h (Umph)

�gTy prosto golova v lyubom sluchaye!�h (Khamis)

�gAh, dat is a fair point.�h (Umph)

{Well, I�fm hoping someone would explain to me what�fs going on. I�fm a bit late to the game here!}

�gIt�fs not just you, Peeps�c�h (Kelly)

�gMaster Nano! This is a miracle!�h (Ariel)

Zublos is staring at us with eyes the size of dinner plates. I�fm guessing the three inside the-

The tower! It�fs all lit up again! I thought Ellie said it could never be fixed!

I turn my head back towards the titans and ask with all my might-

�gWhat did you two just do?!�h (Kira)

�gNothing much, Daughtah of de Stahs. We simply rewound time around us to a point where de Fake Titan was
not broken.�h (Umph)

�g... Come again?�h (Kira)

I think I misheard him.

No, I�fm hoping I misheard him!

�gIt�fs just a little trick us titans do whenever we mess up during our work.�h (Umph)

�gJust a little trick�c�h (Kira)

�gOh yes, standard Titan procedure. It doesn�ft have an effect on living beings other than a slight sense of
discomfort, though.�h (Umph)

�gStandard�c procedure�c�h (Kira)

They twisted the fabric of time itself and are treating it like it was a casual walk in the park!

...

Oh right, they�fre titans.

Beings of immense power and very little common sense.

Somehow I forget about that little nugget of truth.

�gSo�c Uh�c There you have it Nano! Welcome back!�h (Kira)

�c

�gNano?�h (Kira)

...

�gAh�c I think Nano broke.�h (Ellie)

�gWhat?! But we just got him back!�h (Kira)

�gNo, Kira�c the other type of �ebroke.�f The one we can recover from!�h (Ellie)

�gSo�c he�fs going to be okay?�h (Kira)

�gYeah! Just needs a reboot!�h (Ellie)

Ellie puts her fingers up to her head and starts speaking in that weird code again.

Is that okay? Is this really okay?! I mean-

What am I thinking? Of course it�fs fine!

Everyone is alive and well and the world isn�ft going to end! Details like time-warping magic and sentient moons
are completely unimportant!

It�fs my mind if I lose it!

�c Huh, that�fs not quite right.

Oh well!

Maybe now we can finally just have some peace and quiet around here!

End of Act Ten - The Shattered Sky

Chapter 150 - Nothing lasts forever, including parents, money, youth,
your room, dress shirts, me, you, and Binary Soul - Binary Soul | Royal
Road
> Narrator PoV <

�gLook I'm telling you I can handle it!�h yelled the young woman while slamming her hands onto the countertop.
The thick pane of armored glass between her and the teller shook a little from the impact.

�gNow listen here,�h said the receptionist while rubbing her temples, �gplease understand that if I don�ft
follow the rules, the branch head will be seriously mad at me.�h

She was refusing to let the young mage on the other side of the counter accept a commission from the
Adventurer�fs Guild. The job in question was a straightforward subjugation mission - clear out the trolls from their
den and bring back their jaw bones as proof.

�gBut I completed a Rank C job just last week!�h she insisted.

She was more than capable of pulling off such a feat completely on her own, but was denied from accepting it solo.
However, the reason for that refusal was not because of the guild�fs policies.

�gAnd you nearly burned down half the forest while doing so! I�fm telling you, the higher-ups will have my head
if I let you have your way and run off without someone to keep you in check!�h

�gBut Mom said I could-�h

�gGrandmaster Quasse was the one who told us not to let you run wild in the first place! And you know full well
there�fs no way the Branch Manager would dare ignore an order from her! I don�ft care how much you plead and
beg, you�fre not going to get another job unless you have someone responsible around to keep you in check!�h

The mage, Aura, clicked her tongue in annoyance. How ridiculous! So what if she burned down a forest or two? Her
mother had cracked open an entire mountain in her youth and was lauded as a hero for it! What was with this
impossible double standard?! Was it because they were coddling her again? Yes, that�fs probably it. Those mothers
of hers had always tried to discourage her from taking up a dangerous profession like this, despite them being
accomplished adventurers themselves.

The 17 year old woman pulled back from the counter and crossed her arms in front of her sleeveless purple tunic.
The light, shimmering fabric gave her a vaguely exotic feel, which was accentuated by the matching short pants that
were tied off just above her knees. That is to say, where her knees would have been if she had any of those. Her
elbows were missing as well. As a result, her forearms and lower legs appeared to be detached completely from her
actual body, although it was not a cause to worry about. Such things were quite a common trait among Aura�fs
kind.

The Archon floated gently in the air, a few centimeters above the ground. Her yellow crystalline skin glistened
beautifully in the ambient lighting of the Adventurer�fs Guild building, making her look like a living, breathing
gemstone. Short, spiky crystals of a more orange hue were growing steadily on the top and back of her head. Her
�ehair�f looked like she had permanent bed head and a short, unruly ponytail. Her glass-like sky-blue eyes
seemed to grow with an inner light and the angular contours of her face gave her an undeniably pretty look. The
outline of a pair of well-rounded, perky breasts were visible under her tunic. While she didn�ft quite have the
volume of her birth-mother, they were still quite formidable.

Four slim mithril bracelets hung loosely off her wrists, and two matching pairs of mithril anklets dangled over her
bare feet. Mithril was a magic-conductive metal that was well suited for making mana focusing tools like staves,
wands and rings necessary for mages to practice their craft. However, such things served as little more than simple
accessories to someone like Aura.

The all-female race known as Archons had the innate gift to freely hear the Call of Mana, allowing them to conjure
magic literally out of thin air. As a side effect, their crystalline bodies demanded regular intake of magical energy in
addition to food and water. However, such a need could easily be fulfilled by simply absorbing it from their
surroundings. And being the first of her kind, Aura always had a greater degree of control over this ability than the
rest of her sisters.

One of whom was sitting in front of her, across the counter.

�gHaaah. Alright, Nana. You win,�h said Aura.

�gDamn right I win! You�fre way too hot-headed when it comes to this stuff, sis!�h

Nana was Aura�fs sister, younger by about 6 months and the second-born daughter to Kiressara mil Quasse. She
looked almost exactly like Aura, save for having pale red skin and smooth, stylish crystals for �ehair�f that were
arranged into a short bob. It gave her a very calming, professional demeanor.

�gYeah, yeah,�h said Aura dismissively. �gI can go with aunt Yuri, right? When is she coming back from her
dragon hunt?�h

Having a distinguished Rank A adventurer babysit a Rank C like herself was more than a little embarrassing, but it
was better than sitting around idly. Besides, Aura got along quite well with the well-endowed salamander, to the
point where others constantly joked that the two had a more�c intimate relationship than they let on. Such a thing
wasn�ft going to happen though. Yuri was an energetic and beautiful person, but she looked exactly like both of
Aura�fs biological parents. That sort of relationship was simply way too weird to ever work out, even by her weird
family�fs messed up standards.

�gUmm�c give me a minute.�h

Nana started typing on the thin white keyboard in front of her with astounding speed and accuracy. It only took her a
few seconds to find and pull up Yuri�fs file, bringing it up on the Magi-Vision? screen in front of her.

�gTeam [Scales] are scheduled to return tomorrow.�h

�gAlright, call me when she comes back okay?�h

�gSure thing.�h

�gThanks, sis.�h

�gAnytime. Now do you mind moving over? There�fs a line behind you.�h

Aura turned around and saw that 7 people were indeed queued up behind her.

�gOh, whoops! Sorry! I�fll be on my way then!�h

The two sisters said their quick goodbyes and Aura swiftly headed out of the building and into the city of Runetap.
Exiting into the street, she was instantly greeted by the warm light of the midday summer sun and the distant roars
of multiple Mana Engines. Looking up at the sky, she saw four personal airplanes moving in for a landing at the
airstrip just outside the city walls. They were ridiculously high up, and yet their mechanical roars could still be heard
clearly over the hustle and bustle of the busy street. Adventurers, merchants, travelers and assorted weirdos all
passed by each other in a hurry. Multiple signboards advertising various shops and services were lined on either side
of the busy Market Street. The noise from the people alone was overwhelming for people who weren�ft used to
being in a sprawling metropolis like this. It�fs a good thing cars were banned from entering the city, otherwise
Aura was sure she would go deaf from the added loud engine noises.

She glanced about idly, wondering what to do with the rest of her day.

�gI think�c a walk would be nice,�h she said to herself.

Well, �ewalk�f was more figurative than literal in her case. She simply glided along the street, floating several
centimeters off the ground as usual. She had gotten so good at this particular spell that she could manifest and
control its effects with a thought. And since Runetap always had a relatively thick concentration of mana in the air,
she was able to use this particular magic pretty much indefinitely. A truly enviable skill!

Yet despite that, the only thing that was on her mind during this �ewalk�f was how inferior and insecure she felt.
How could she not? Just look at her lineage!

Kiressara mil Quasse, her birth-mother, was the both the first Minister and first Director of the Ministry of Progress
within this Kingdom of Ferseit. She even had the ear of King Frederick Ferseit himself even now, years after her
resignation. However, that wasn�ft really a good thing in her opinion. That old geezer kept pestering and intruding
on her just so he wouldn�ft spend his twilight years in boredom.

Ellie mil Quasse, Kiressara�fs wife and Aura�fs �efather,�f was the acting Grandmaster of the Adventurer�fs
Guild. She had worked closely with Clara, the Guild Branch Manager here in Runetap, to reform the guild into a
truly efficient and respectable organization. There was also the matter of Clara�fs old fan club, which had grown so
large since its inception that it was bordering on becoming a state religion.

Of course that was just the tip of the iceberg. The two of them were co-founders of the legendary adventuring team
[Black Flame] that dominated the official #1 adventuring team spot for nearly a decade before it was disbanded.
Each and every individual that belonged to that group was truly outrageous in their own right.

Ariel Noko became the first female Archbishop of Enuri. Her meritorious and righteous deeds had become so many
that the position was more or less thrust upon her when the previous Archbishop had passed away. She also ended
up marrying Inspector Lilly Alasandara, a snow-white furred female cat-folk official from the Ministry of
Information. It was a relationship that saw no end of �ecat that ate the canary�f jokes, although Aura never quite
understood what was funny about that.

Kelly Darkhand was also another big name that came from that infamous team, though she was technically only a
part-timer. She had maintained her opposition to becoming part of the Adventurer�fs Guild and was the first of the
team to give up completely on a life of adventure. Her passion had always been engineering and she had stated she
simply wanted to devote her time to research and construction. The dwarf�fs fascination and expertise with Mana
Engines eventually led her to starting Ferseit�fs first ever automobile racing circuit. The fledgling motorsport
spread like wild fire to every corner of the continent and even beyond. It was insanely popular with humans,
dwarves and werewolves. It was only natural that the one-armed dwarf would go on to become famous as the
Mother of Racing, although her constant PSAs to avoid drinking and driving were understandably... less than
convincing.

Was there even a need to mention Zublos, the Pastry King? There wasn�ft a man, woman or child who didn�ft
know of his cake shop. Every major city and most towns had a Vestiges of the Empire branch in them. It had even
spread into the City States Alliance to the East and the Republic of Ecebis to the north, contributing in no small part
to the keeping the peace between all nations on this continent. It would seem that Zublos�fs aggressive expansion
strategy had calmed down in recent years as he spent more and more time simply enjoying life alongside his wife,
Lara Alamein.

Speaking of people called Lara, there was the matter of Lara mil Quasse, Aura�fs eldest human sister. While it�fs
true that she was adopted, none of the Archons held anything but respect and admiration for her. After all, she had
managed to become the world�fs first Technomancer and succeed her mother as the current Minister and Director
of Progress. Right now she was spearheading the application of golem-assisted armor frames for construction and
transportation purposes. Her marriage to Princess Shalia is still talked about today, even though it�fs been over five
years since it happened.

Of course, Lara�fs biological sister, Sophie, did not fall behind either. She had become a bard and songstress of
unparalleled beauty and skill. Hundreds of thousands of tickets were sold out in less than an hour whenever she
made an appearance at the Arena at the capital city of Kotero. But that�fs not all. News of her apparent engagement
to Lyra had rocked the world to the point where it made people question if the editor of the Wyvernews had finally
gone insane.

After all, Lyra was an Archon and Aura�fs sister. She was the first child Ellie gave birth to and was merely two
days younger than Nana. However, there was really nothing legally or morally wrong with the two sisters having
that sort of relationship. They weren�ft blood related, after all. And who could blame Sophie? Lyra�fs crystal skin
was a truly spectacular white color that seemed to rival the brilliance of diamonds, and her long, flowing, glass-like
hair gave her a truly divine aura. It truly fit her image as a Priestess of Khamis. Being the first Archon to join a
religious organization made her quite famous in her own right and was a welcome boon to the religious
organization. The Church of Khamis has, understandably, had a hard time dealing with one of their beloved moons
disappearing overnight 17 years ago.

Aura shook her head. Even her younger sister was pulling ahead of her. To speak nothing of the two gryphons that
were also part of her huge family. Fluffles was standing ever by Lara�fs side, keeping a close eye on her and the
princess like a dutiful knight. They even had a special set of armor crafted just for him. His valiant and stoic
presence around the royal palace eventually spawned the creation of a government-sanctioned Gryphon Knight
Corps.

As impressive as it was for a gryphon to be knighted, his brother from another mother somehow still ended up one-
upping him. Puff the Magic Gryphon somehow managed to earn himself peerage and had replaced Baron Luron as
Lord of Runetap. The king even went as far as to give him the title of Viscount! The entire country had thought the
old king had finally gone completely bat-poop crazy, but quieted down when the newly appointed Viscount Puff
somehow proved to be a capable statesman. Or is that statesgryphon? His anti-criminal initiatives had brought about
a drastic reduction in crime rate and his continued support of the Runetap General Academy, although clearly
biased, had earned him a lot of favor from the citizens.

However, there were still some ominous rumors floating around Puff�fs drastic rise to power. They all stated that
Puff had somehow blackmailed both Baron Luron and King Frederick Ferseit to become a full-fledged noble.
However, that was ludicrous. Puff was the noble steed of the legendary Ellie mil Quasse and a truly outstanding
specimen that was smarter than most people. Surely such a being was beyond sinister things like behind-the-scenes
blackmail and coercion. Besides, this was Runetap. The only strange thing about having a weird fire-breathing
creature govern the city was that something like this didn�ft happen sooner.

Aura just couldn�ft get over the fact was that even her parents�f pets were more accomplished than she was!

�g�g�g�gAuraaa!�h�h�h�h

The firstborn Archon snapped out of her downward spiral of jealousy and envy by a small chorus of voices. Four of
them to be precise.

�gBig sis Aura! Big sis Aura! Big sis Aura! Big sis Aura!�h they chanted.

�gHey you four!�h said Aura with a huge smile on her face. Seeing her younger sisters never failed to improve
her mood, especially when it came to these four.

The seven year old quadruplets flew steadily around Aura�fs head. The color of their crystalline bodies was a rich
purple that reminded one of amethysts while their red eyes shined like the highest grade rubies. They all wore
matching yellow dresses that made them unbelievably cute. Indeed, these four girls were precious in every sense of
the word.
Well, calling them quadruplets wasn�ft quite accurate, but it was simpler than attempting to explain their
circumstances. After all, they all looked and sounded exactly alike, even though they came from different mothers.
Theirs was a truly exceptional case where Ellie and Kira each gave birth to twins at the same time.

�gDid you come out all the way here just to see me?�h

�g�g�g�gYep!�h�h�h�h they answered in total unison.

�gBig sis Nana called,�h said one of them while raising her small hand,�h and she said you were feeling down,
so we came to cheer you up!�h

�gOh, how sweet!�h replied Aura with a wide smile.

�gThen big sis isn�ft sad anymore?�h asked another of the identical double-twins.

�gNope! I feel much better thanks to you!�h

This was the truth. No matter how much she may envy her siblings, she truly treasured each and every one of them.

�g�g�g�gAlright! Mission accomplished!�h�h�h�h they shouted while high-fiving each other.

Their voices always seemed to sync up for some reason. It would honestly be quite creepy if it wasn�ft so
endearing.

�gIndeed! Good work! Ah, I know! Let me treat you guys to some ice cream as a reward!�h

�g�g�g�gReally?!�h�h�h�h

�gYup!�h

�g�g�g�gYaaay! You�fre the best, big sis Aura!�h�h�h�h

�gFufufu, I am pretty great, aren�ft I?! Come on, I know just the place!�h

The eldest led the younger ones towards one her favorite places to eats. The four purple munchkins kept circling
around her head with arms spread while chanting �eIce cream! Ice cream! Ice cream! Ice cream!�f until they
reached their destination - a simple unassuming stall on the side of the road.

The stall vendor was a retired lich by the name of Zain Looa Wong. He wore a simple brown robe with a white
apron draped around his front and simply stared idly at the people passing by with hollowed out eyes. Even if he
was an undead skeleton that claimed to be a being of immense power, he never really did anything to earn the ire of
the citizens of Runetap. Him selling ice cream to people also wasn�ft that big a deal. After all, Ancient Evils
abandoning their ways to sell tasty treats had become somewhat of a tradition in Runetap.

Aura approached the bag-of-bones and greeted him with a positively beaming smile.

�gHey old man! Long time no see!�h

�gOh! If it isn�ft Aura!�h

Zain returned the greeting with a light bow of his bleached skull. His oddly cheerful voice gave off the undeniable
impression he was smiling, even though he had no face.

�gHow�fve you been, girl?�h

�gAh you know, ups and downs, but mostly okay.�h

�gStill feeling inferior to your siblings, huh?�h

�gYeah, little bit.�h

�gAnd I assume you floating bundles of adorableness are four of them?�h

�g�g�g�gYeah!�h�h�h�h answered the quadruplets.

�gHahaha, quite spirited eh? My name is Zain, pleased to meet you!�h

�g�g�g�gHello, mister Zain!�h�h�h�h

�gAnd would your names be?�h

The four girls introduced themselves from left to right.

�gI�fm Prima!�h

�gSecunda!�h

�gTroika!�h

�gTroika Two!�h

�gGeh!�h yelped Zain. �gShouldn�ft that be Quatra?!�h

�gDon�ft ask,�h said Aura while shaking her head. �gQuatra was already taken so my mom had to�c
improvise.�h

�gIs that okay? Doesn�ft it make her feel bad?�h

�gNot at all. If anything she actually enjoys being the only one of the four with a two part name.�h

�gYep!�h confirmed Troika Two. The other three shared some meaningful glances between themselves that
seemed to say �eIs it really that big a deal?�f

�g... I�fm afraid to ask but, how many siblings do you actually have?�h

�g90 younger ones and 2 older ones.�h

�gN-n-ninety?! Isn�ft that way too many?!�h

�gWell�c Apparently my moms made an off-handed promise to have four hundred babies together and�c
well�c they always strive to keep their promises�c�h

Aura�fs crystal blue eyes seemed to stare off into the distance, through the buildings and beyond the horizon.The
old lich couldn�ft muster a reply and just stared at her with his jaw hanging open.

�gAnyway! Old man! We came here for ice cream so give us five cones!�h

�g... Oh! Right, of course. Coming right up!�h

Zain snapped out of his stupor and immediately got busy selling them the ice cream. Less than a minute later all five
siblings had a frozen treat in their hands. The waved goodbye to the old lich and floated away to continue their little
�estroll.�f The quadruplets happily licked away at it, stopping only to exclaim things like �eYummy!�f or
�eSooo goood!�f while floating around.

Aura also find it quite enjoyable. She wasn�ft sure what the reason was, but that old man�fs ice cream was the
best! It even glowed slightly in the dark! How come Zain�fs stall wasn�ft more popular considering he had an
amazing product like this?! It truly was a mystery!

The five of them kept floating around aimlessly and eventually ended up in a small park in the west area of the city.
The four young girls had already wolfed down their ice cream by the time they got here.

�gGone�c Was tasty though,�h said Prima.

�gYeah! Really tasty,�h echoed Secunda.

�gFelt like something was missing though,�h retorted Troika.

�gCoulda used some of mom�fs choco sauce,�h added Troika Two.

�gThat�fs it!�h shouted the other three in agreement.

Aura on the other hand was still slowly savoring her. That is, until she heard a strange noise coming from the ground
beneath her.

*CRACK*

The dried up dirt path she was floating over split open, and a filthy black-furred claw with extra long claws emerged
from inside. It swiped at Aura�fs feet, but she had already reacted by pulling herself up to an altitude of about 5
meters, well out of reach of the Molemen that started popping out from the ground. She was already a Rank C
adventurer, so there�fs no way she�fd be caught by a clumsy trick like-

�gAAAAAH!�h she screamed. �gMy ice cream!�h

The frozen ball of deliciousness had fallen out of her cone during her rapid ascent. The two pairs of twins that had
already ran away even higher than Aura then looked at each other.

�gBig sis will be mad,�h pointed out Prima.

�gYep, mad,�h agreed Secunda.

�gWe need to do something!�h exclaimed Troika.

�gHow about we run away?�h suggested Troika Two.

�gThat�fs it!�h shouted the other three in unison. All four of them then promptly flew even higher, making sure
to give their notorious big sister plenty of space.

�gMy�c ice�c CREAM!�h

Aura�fs eyes moved away from the half-eaten ball of icy goodness rolling around in the dirt and zeroed in on the
Molemen who were growling and hissing up at her. Those vermin were going to pay for ruining her precious snack
tim- er, her bonding session with her cute sisters!

She took a deep breath and started soaking in all of the ambient mana around her. A few seconds later she extended
an arm downwards with an open palm, pointing in the vague direction of the Molemen.

*BADZUZUZUZUZUZUZU*

A violent surge of forked purple lightning shot out from her and spread out in a wide cone. Arcs of high voltage
electricity flew assaulted the impudent monsters, frying them to a literal crisp within seconds. There was nothing but
ash left of the dozen or so Molemen by the time her electric fury subsided, causing a foul stench to permeate through
the air.
�gFuuu�c�h

She let out the deep breath she took and calmed herself down somewhat.

�g�g�g�gAmazing! Amazing! Big sis Aura is amazing!�h�h�h�h

The purple-hued quadruplets praised and cheered for her while dancing around joyfully in the air. She responded by
putting her hands on her hips and throwing her chest out.

�gHehe! How�fs that!?�h she said, brimming with pride. �gLowly molemen are nothing before one such as
me!�h

*KRAKAKOOOOOM*

A blindingly bright bolt of lightning struck in front of her, literally out of the blue.

�gWah!�h yelped Aura.

The shape of a woman appeared before her. She had long, crimson hair tied in a messy ponytail, mismatched red and
blue eyes and a face that was beautiful enough to move mountains. Several sparks of yellow electricity came off the
black gauntlets she had on either hand. She also wore a luxurious, form-fitting black robe with gold embroidery
along the neck, sleeves and waist. The backless garment honestly looked closer to a gown than a robe, especially
when combined with her womanly figure. Her bust size alone looked like she had stuffed actual melons under it, but
the formidable cleavage revealed they were, in fact, real.

�gAura Quasse!�h she shouted with an unnaturally loud and stern vice.

The eldest Archon�fs haughty demeanor disappeared in an instant.

�gUh, oh�c�h she muttered to herself. �gFull name�c�h She floated down to the ground with a dejected look
on her face.

�g�g�g�gIt�fs mummy!�h�h�h�h

The woman before her bore the name Kiressara mil Quasse. Distinguished adventurer. Founder of the Ministry of
Progress. Court Wizard to the Kingdom of Ferseit. First Magus of the restored Order of the Eye. Archmage of the
prestigious Magic Academy. A human that had ascended to become this world�fs first true titan, known as
Morgiana the Manaweaver.

Indeed, she had many titles, but at this very moment she was none of those.

�gJust what do you think you�fre doing, young lady?!�h

Right now, she was just a mother looking to scold her unruly daughter.

�gB-b-but- But!�h stammered Aura. �gThe Molemen attacked us! What was I supposed to do?!�h

�gYou can fly away from them for a start! How many times do I have to tell you to leave such things to the city
guard! Look, those men are already on their way!�h

She pointed towards the side. A squad of 12 shield-bearing soldiers were indeed running in their direction. Well, one
of them wasn�ft.

�gOh, hey mom! �eSup, big sis!�h

The emerald-skinned Archon among them called out to her family members.
�g�g�g�gIt�fs big sis Ember!�h�h�h�h

The purple quadruplets floated down to greet the 15 year old rookie guard.

�gOh, you four are here, too huh?�h

�gPrivate Quasse! You�fre out of line!�h said the squad leader.

�gAck! Yes sir! Sorry sir!�h

The grizzled officer then turned back to the scene before him. He looked at the charred Molemen on the ground,
then at Aura and finally at Kira.

�gGood day, Madam,�h he said, nodding towards Kira. �gI trust you�fre doing well.�h

�gGood day, Lieutenant Simmons,�h she replied in a calm voice and bowed slightly. �gMy daughter has caused
you some trouble.�h

�gI noticed, Madam. An AR-5 by the looks of it. You know this is going to be her hundredth offense, right?�h

�gIt wasn�ft my fault!�h protested the guilty party in question. �gBesides, who cares if I zapped some giant
rodents!?�h

Kira sighed in exasperation.

�gYoung lady, have you looked at the surroundings?�h

�gHuh? What are�c you�c Oh.�h

Her words trailed off when eyes finally noticed the scene around her. Molemen aside, the grass around them was
charred pitch black, two trees were reduced to splinters and ashes and four more were currently on fire.

�gWhat do you have to say for yourself?!�h

�gUhm�c Oops?�h

�gWrong!�h

The mother�fs clearly displeased voice rang out with supernatural force. It seemed to quite literally press down on
the rest of them gathered there.

�gI�fm sorry!�h Aura corrected herself in a hurry. �gI�fm sorry, okay?! I didn�ft mean to!�h

�gBetter! Ah, I�fm sorry you had to see that, Lieutenant. I�fll handle it from here, just send the bill for any
damages to the usual place.�h

�gI still need to bring her into the garrison though,�h insisted the guard.

�gI will bring her there later. You have my word.�h

�gGood enough. Alright squad! Let�fs get to clean up! Quasse - put out that fire!�h

�gYes, sir!�h answered the young Archon guard.

�gRicko, see if you can fix that grass!�h

�gYes, sir!�h
�gJohns, go disperse those the onlookers!�h

�gAye, sir! I mean, yes, sir!�h

The city guard went about containing the incident in a highly professional and efficient manner, just as they always
have. However, Kira wasn�ft quite done scolding her daughter.

�gHonestly, why do you keep overdoing things so much?�h

�gIt�fs not my fault, okay?!�h insisted Aura.

�gOh really?�h

Kira crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes.

�gPrima. Come down here for a minute.�h

The (technically) eldest of the quadruplets floated down to her eye level.

�gYes, mummy?�h she asked while giving Kira a huge smile.

She was really glad to see her, even if it was unexpected. After all, both her mothers were busy people. They always
tried to make time for their daughters, but having such a humongous family meant they couldn�ft speak to all of
them every single day.

�gWhy did your elder sister decide it was a good idea to unleash a magical calamity in the middle of the park?�h

�gThose things made her drop her ice cream!�h

�gAck! Wait don�ft tell her that!�h shouted Aura with panic in her eyes.

�gOh hoh! Ice cream is it?�h

�gEr, well, that is�c um�c�h

�gHaah,�h sighed Kira. �gWhere do all these highly destructive outbursts come from, I wonder?�h

�gAren�ft you the one that wrecked half the city on your wedding day?!�h pointed out Aura.

�gTh-that was�c *Cough* Do as I say! Not as I do! Besides, it was only a quarter.�h

�gOh, yeah, sure. Only a quarter. Well, this thing was only my ice cream! Humpf!�h

Aura crossed her arms and defiantly turned away from her with a pout.

�g...�h

However, her mother�fs scolding didn�ft continue. That was actually not a good sign.

�g... What?�h she asked, throwing a worried glance at her mother.

�gI think Ellie should have a word with you.�h

�gNo! Anything but-�h

She didn�ft even get to finish her sentence before a blue blur zoomed in. It approached at ludicrous speed, yet
moved while ignoring all the laws of physics. It left no footprints, made no sounds and left even the air undisturbed.
It even ignored momentum completely as it stopped on a dime directly between Aura and Kira.
�g-that! Ack!�h

The figure that appeared was a slender woman that bore the exact same face as Kira. She had shoulder-length ocean
blue hair and a pair of matching blue cat ears stood upright on on the top of her head, swaying and pivoting towards
the slightest noise. Her eyes were heterochromatic - one was red and the other was blue. They were just like
Kira�fs, except reversed and with a distinctive cat-like iris. A long, fluffy tail swayed idly behind her back,
completing an image that was almost a parody of the more bestial cat-folk that were native to this world..

Her outfit consisted of a pair of dark gray, skin-tight pants, a loose-fitting navy blue shirt and an open coat that
looked to be made of black leather. Her trusty wrist-mounted grappling hooks were there, although mostly for
decoration and recreation rather than practical purposes. The same could be said about the unnaturally heavy black
blade sheathed horizontally behind her waist. Her feet were protected by a pair of sturdy-looking leather boots that
went up to her shins.

This was her other mother. Ellie mil Quasse. Grandmaster of the Adventurer�fs Guild. Headmistress of the runetap
General Academy. She was the second true titan and carried the moniker of Asura the Worldbreaker. Truthfully
speaking, that extremely ominous title was mostly due to Nano, the artificial intelligence that dwelled inside her
immortal body.

�gAura,�h she said while glaring coldly at her misbehaving daughter.

�gEeep.�h

�gExcuse me for a moment.�h

Ellie turned around and leapt at Kira with arms stretched out. The mage effortlessly caught her and spun her around
almost like dance, then they shared a long, deep kiss.

�gHey, beautiful.�h

�gHi, Kira!�h

The stern expression Ellie had a moment ago was gone like it was a bad joke. Right now she sported the blissful
smile of the luckiest woman in the world.

�g�g�g�gIt�fs other mummy! Yaaaay!�h�h�h�h

�gHey girls. Having fun in the sun?�h

�g�g�g�gYeah!�h�h�h

�gThat�fs good. Exercise is important! Hmm?�h Ellie sniffed at the air. �gOh, Ember�fs around too, huh?�h

�gShe is,�h confirmed Kira. �gShe�fs over there, assisting with cleaning up after Aura�fs mess.�h

�gI see. And Aura is being stubborn again?�h

�gYes.�h

�gN-no! I wasn�ft!�h

Now it was time for the smile to disappear and for the cold gaze to return. The way she changed her emotions at a
moment's notice was more than a little freaky.

�gI am not freaky.�h

Oh shi- ! I mean! It wasn�ft freaky at all! It just had a profoundly strong impact! In fact, the huge gap between her
happy face and her serious face somehow made her even more alluring! Truly a person befitting of the love of the
great and amazing Kira!

�gBetter,�h nodded Ellie to nobody in particular.

�gWho are you talking to?�h asked Kira inquisitively.

�gNobody important.�h

Hey, don�ft glare at me like that okay?

�gAnyway,�h said Ellie, completely disregarding the extra-dimensional presence that insulted her. She turned
towards Aura and resumed the scolding session.

�gYou overdid things again didn�ft you?�h

�gI, uhm�c a little bit�c�h

�gAura.�h

�gYes! Okay! I did it! I flew off the handle again! I apologized already, okay?!�h

�gGood. But not good enough.�h

�gAhhh! No! I�fll be good! I promise!�h pleaded the guilty party.

Ellie disappeared and reappeared in front of Aura in the next instant. She held her hand up to the Archon�fs
forehead and gave it a single flick which sent the unruly girl flying backwards. She bounced two times across the
grassy ground, then slid for a second before coming to a stop some 30 meters away from her initial position.

�gOowww! That freaking huuuurts!�h

Aura rolled around on the ground while clutching her forehead. The flawless crystal-like surface now had an
obvious web-like pattern of cracks around the place Ellie�fs finger had made impact. Her arms and legs had a
number of scratches and dents from the rough tumble as well. It wasn�ft a big deal, though. The crystal flesh of an
Archon was extremely resilient and would heal rapidly as long as they absorbed enough ambient mana, so these
injuries were hardly life threatening.

However, such bruises were merely a side-effect of her actual punishment. Ellie appeared next to Aura without
disturbing even a single blade of grass. She leaned over the writhing Archon, her serious expression amplified by the
shadows her hair cast over her face.

�gI�fve sealed your magic for three weeks,�h she declared. �gMaybe now you�fll learn to treasure your gifts
instead of flaunting them about all the time.�h

�gOww! What?! Three weeks?! What am I supposed to do with myself for that long?�h

Ellie�fs lips curled into a pleasant smile.

�gI suggest you re-take the Basic Adventuring course at the RGA.�h

Her eyes, however, were far from pleasant.

�g... Yes, ma�fam,�h replied Aura with a thoroughly dejected voice.

�gVery good. Now come on, let�fs go grab some lunch.�h

Aura was picked up off the ground by Ellie�fs Telekinesis and made to follow along whether she wanted to or not.

�gYou four,�h she said while pointing at the quadruplets. The purple girls were giggling at the expense of their
elder sister�fs misfortune, but stopped immediately when they were pointed out.

�gYou�fre coming with us.�h

�g�g�g�gYaaaay!�h�h�h�h

�gKira?!�h

�gOf course I�fm coming, silly ~?!�h

�gHehehe ~�ô! Ah, Ember?�h

�gShe�fs still on patrol. We shouldn�ft disturb her duties.�h

�gMm, good point. I�fll make it up to her later. Nano, we�fre going home. Bodyslide by 7.�h

{Aye, aye!}

The two titans and five Archons disappeared in a flash of light, taken away to their flying home base to enjoy some
quality time together with the majority of their family.

One would expect this exotic group and their weird antics to draw curious glances from onlookers and form a crowd
around them in no time, but such a thing didn�ft happen. Not because people weren�ft around, but because they
simply didn�ft care. And the reason for that was simple.

This was the city of Runetap. The largest trade city in the Kingdom of Ferseit, built on the crossroads of two major
highways. Population at any given time exceeds 600,000 people, but only half of those were permanent residents.
Most of those living here, temporarily or otherwise, were human. Elves, dwarves and cat-folk were in the minority,
but they were still a common sight.

It was by no means a quiet place. Flying machines flew overhead regularly and trains passed through the central hub
constantly. Loud cheers could be heard from the numerous bars and restaurants. Fights and disputes often broke out
in the street. At first glance, Runetap was a noisy place that attracts trouble. However, the sheer amount of trouble
that reared its head was staggering.

Titans walking the street? That was hardly out of place around these parts. Umph had been volunteered to teach
Titan Lore at the Runetap General Academy, so their presence was hardly a secret.

Molemen springing out of the ground and attacking citizens for no good reason? Just another Monday.

The moon exploded into a puff of red mist and white chunks? So what - they still had another one, didn�ft they?

That High Dragon approaching overhead? Okay, granted, that was slightly inconvenient, but it was no cause for
alarm. After all-

*KRAKAKOOOOM*

�gPIKYAAAAA!�h

�gCOME BACK HERE YOU INSUFFERABLE POOP TORNADO!�h

Kira had never quite forgiven their kind for ruining her wedding day.

Binary Soul - END

Afterword: Q&A with the author - Binary Soul | Royal Road
Me again! Thought I'd have a separate place where you guys can ask me things. I promise to answer any and all
questions to the best of my ability, so don't hold back!

And for those asking - yes, I do plan on posting a link here when I start work on the next series. I plan to keep the
lighthearted, fluffy and comedic tone of the story, though the style will be a bit different. It will also be set on a
different continent, so look forward to a plethora of new characters along with some old ones making cameos.

P.S. It seems the paragraph about Kelly got lost in the final edit, whoops! Heh, it wouldn't be a proper ending
without me screwing something up. I've edited it back in now, apologies for the mix up.

Do you plan to make a few more sidestories or extra chapters? (Besides the next series)

Sorry, but no. That's it. No more. Finito. Finished. Done. Over. Over and done.

And do you plan to make pdf or epub versions for download?

Sorry, no. However, if someone else does me that favor, please PM it to me and I'll share it with everyone else.

EDIT: Here you go. Link graciously provided by Walty.

What happened to the erotic side stories? is it over? XD

Well, I never made any promises about keeping that particular thing updated. It was just an experiment, anyway.

How do Archons reproduce? Because they might be Kira and Ellie's only hope to have grandchildren...

Much like how Ellie and Kira did it - they just have feel-good-times with their chosen loved ones and another super
yuri-yuri miracle child is born! I guess the closest example I can give is the Asari from the Mass Effect universe.

Also, if I were to find you, lock you up in a basement and feed you only when you write a chapter, would you
write faster?

Maybe, but faster isn't always better. The content will be of sub-standard quality and extremely unsatisfying. Trust
me, that is a path that will lead only to disaster. So please don't lock me up in a basement ._.

What happened to Skittles, will we see her in the next story?

All of the titans simply moved on with their lives and kept doing what they do. Only with less oversight and nobody
holding the leash. So... expect quite a lot of nonsense from them in the next book!

As for Skittles specifically, she simply moved on with her journey across the ocean. No more, no less.

Did the steelmother ever finish off that spider infestation?

She did, yes. That was just a ruse caused by the Voice to keep her busy and away from Kira and Ellie. It didn't want
the titans it had decieved taking too close a look at the moons. Wouldn't want another going rogue like Black
Skittles did!

Do dwarves drink and drive at a higher percentage than werewolves?

Nobody drinks more than a werewolf, mate. Not even other werewolves!

Also did we ever find out what happened to the merpeople?

They simply weren't a part of the story and were largely uninfluenced by the events here. Well, other than the moon
blowing up.

What is exactly ellie's domain??

Titans are not gods. They don't have domains, just areas of expertise. Ellie's area of expertise was always breaking
things - bones, common sense, people's pride, mountains etc. That hasn't really changed...

And the titan is really ellie or is nano? Or both?

Only Ellie. Nano's just along for the ride.

How long an archon's lifespan?

Haven't really given it much thought. Let's say 120 years on average.

And would their body dissolve overtime after death or just stay in clear crystals and one day become some
wierdoes jewelry?

They're still living beings that grow up and eventually decompose.

With all the yuri marrages can they all have kids of their own and if so what race would they be?

EDIT: Nope. The super yuri yuri miracle children were only possible because of Kira and Ellie's unique
circumstances.

Will there ever be male Archons? I'm guessing there are no males because both the progenitors are female,
but what happens later on when they fall in love with a male and have kids with him?

Their blueprint is a combination of two women, and their progeny won't inherit genetic material, just the essence of
the partner's mana. So I really don't see male archons appearing.

Will they be like the female only races like harpys and lamias?

Basically this, yes.

Did Nano ever get a grasp on magic?

He is still unable to manipulate magic directly. He really doesn't need it though, trust me.

Did the blow up moon get absorbed by the other moon or is there a glorious astroid blood ring around the
planet now?

The remains of the moon eventually fell down to the planet. Part of them burned up on re-entry and the rest were
intercepted and disposed of by the titans.

I'm surprised the royal family was okay with a lesbian marriage, what with the politics of royal marriages
and the need for biological children.

To answer your unasked question - there is still a perfectly healthy prince to assume the throne. That and King Fred
always wanted at least his daughter to marry out of love rather than politics.

A simple question, how was Yuri when they told all the "same person" thing? I really want to know.

Let's just say it's a good thing Kelly was there to introduce her to the joys of drowning one's problems in ale. That
werewolf-made stuff should really be marketed as a medicine that treats I-minded-things-too-much disease.

Will any elements from Ellie's universe be appearing in the sequel? Particularly other telekinesis users, the
one who made Ellie into a weapon in the first place, straight up aliens, other starship crashes, or an enemy
sentient nanomachine swarm?

Maaaaaaybe :^)

Do you have any plans of a reverse crossover, like a citizen of this world crosspver to Ellie's original one (I
think that would be interesting.)?

Reverse summoning, huh? Wouldn't be very interesting. They'd be unable to use magic so it would be just a regular
joe in a sci-fi universe.

Okay, that's kind of interesting, but not something I want to write about.

WHATS SO WRONG WITH YURI X AURA!?

Technically speaking, nothing. They're not directly related or anything. It'd just be super fucking weird to bang your
mom from a parallel universe. Kind of hot, but also weird.

Also, any chance there will be an ambiguously gay, blond vampire with a god complex that's way to attached
to his brother's body? If there will be can you please name him......Donny Ignacio Orelios?

...

No.

In a past side chapter, the one who reveled nano's past, it is said that nano was a human (or something alive
at least) and had his mind "warped"(or copied?) in a machine as to make a "perfect ai", dosn't it make him a
being with a soul??
He has a 'soul' in the metaphysical sense, but it's ultimately just a machine that can be rebooted, repaired, rebuilt,
backed-up or copied over. What Nano lacks is a soul in the supernatural/magical sense. He needs one of THOSE in
order to manipulate mana.

And for the record yes, Nano's past memories were simply a copy - data that was implanted and never truly his own.

Can you give Ellie and Kira's titan powers? I mean Umph and the other titan could turn back time,what are
their perks?

No. What's the fun in that?

Is the next sequel Aura have a lover instantly like this or a partner turn lover romance plot(-ish?)

I think it'll happen naturally over time.

Care to give one or two lines story for side characters like oldboun?,and others and like Ellie beating up
Kira's old bullies?

Please stop begging me. It's unsightly. I already wrote an epilogue that's 3 times longer than other chapters, you'll
have to be satisfied with that.

Only three Kira's are transported (mysteriously) into this world?

Who knows? Certainly not me ~~

I forgot to ask with my prior questions, but how did they deal with the astrophysicial impacts of having one
the Moons blown up? Even if we assume that Titans can deal with the earthquakes, volcanos, tornados and
others, the disappearence of a moon should have at least accelerate the rotation of the planet (the
gravitational pull of the Moon is slowing down the planet). This means that the day-night cycle should have
slowly become faster over the years, which would have destroyed the climate all over the world.

So how did they deal with that? Titans' magic?

I don't know nearly enough about astrophysics to answer this question.

"It's your loos if you mind it" has always been my way of subtly telling my readers "please don't ask me difficult
questions."

EDIT: Jade Vanadium answered this question on my behalf. My hat's off to you, good sir/madam.

Show

don't think I ever mentioned it but half the reason I started reading this story was your username as I really
like the warhammer 40k universe and while it wasn't what I thought it would be based off you username I
have immensely enjoyed it.

That's not really a question, but I appreciate it. I also owe you a lot for pointing out my mistakes so much. So, thanks
for that!
Are the quadruplets intended to be magically synched AKA Unity, or are they just psychologically synched
because of how many experiences they share? Meaning, if they get un-synched, could it be considered a
magical injury? Because naturally, magically synched quadruplets is pretty cool imo.

Magically synched, though not quite at the level of Unity. Think of it like a miniature (and hopelessly adorabe)
hivemind. The cause was a magical hiccup with Unity when Kira and Ellie were, uh, conceiving them. They'll
feature quite prominently in the sequel since I also think it's pretty dang cool.

Are you going to continue with Boxxy or start the next series

Yes, I'm going to focus on Boxxy now. The next series won't be starting for a long while. Probably not until I finish
that one, but we'll see.

What!!!!! Now you tell us you're going to end Boxxie's story too?

Well yeah, eventually. Not right now. Calm your tits, jeez.

I'm still waiting for Nano to get a waifu. No waifu no laifu.

�cwill he ever get one?

I don't see that happening. I really do not.

And the term Binary Soul, is it for Kira�~Ellie (a pair) or Nano? That word on the two prev chapters really
bugged me off. '__')

It stands for both. A double meaning.

This novel isn't just about the journey of a pair of twin souls, but also about a sentient, unshackled AI looking for a
purpose for its existence.

That's right. There were 3 main characters all along! Mwahahaha!

Just kidding. It's Kira and Ellie. That comment in the last chapter was made only to mess with readers like you. :^)

does the ending of Binary Soul = More Boxxy?

Yes.

Also was it intentional that you made a title that can be shortened to BS?

No. But it IS oddly fitting o3o

Does the end of the Voice mean that this world is free of intentional interdimensional immigrants?

Intentional ones, yes.

And will we see one or two accidental immigrants?

Indeed you will. In fact, you already have! Skittles was one, after all.