Chapter 16-20: I’m the Saintess’s Younger Sister

Chapter 16: ...the story is about to begin.

“Before we begin, let’s discuss the most important matter.”

The Demon King’s words drew everyone's attention.

He paused, his gaze settling on me.

I had a feeling I knew what this “important matter” was.

“It concerns the Zeroth Legion Commander.”

“Is that so?”

“I’ve heard that a new Hero and Saint will be enrolling in the Academy.”

The Hero and Saint.

Humanity’s hope, the antithesis of the Demon King. Information about them was crucial to the demons.

That was why the Demon King was making such a big deal out of it.

“Therefore, I intend to send the Zeroth Legion Commander to the Academy to monitor them.”

“Why her?”

Baal questioned the moment the Demon King finished speaking.

The other Legion Commanders seemed to share the same sentiment, waiting for an explanation.

The Academy, where Beatrice, the former Hero’s party mage and current strongest human mage, was the headmistress.

A place where humanity trained its forces to fight against demons.

In other words, he was sending one of the Demon Realm's greatest assets into the heart of humanity's most important facility.

It was natural to have questions.

“We are still unsure of the new Hero and Saint's capabilities.”

“So the objective is information gathering?”

“If that were all, there would be no need to send her.”

The Demon King gestured towards me.

“Lucifer, your task is to gain the trust of the Hero’s party members.”

Bathory frowned subtly at the Demon King's words.

The others didn't seem to notice, too focused on me, but I saw it clearly from across the table.

She probably didn't like the idea of me getting close to others.

She even radiated killing intent whenever Lilith got near me.

“Are our spies insufficient?”

“As I said, the objective isn’t just information gathering.”

Bathory’s voice held a hint of displeasure.

I could see her annoyance, but thankfully, she refrained from releasing her killing intent in front of the Demon King.

“If the Hero and Saint are deemed a sufficient threat, you are to eliminate them.”

Silence fell over the meeting hall.

While the other Legion Commanders were taken aback, two pairs of eyes remained fixed on me.

“Do you intend to eliminate the new Hero and Saint, Your Majesty?”

“Only if they prove to be a significant threat.”

“Indeed, she would be capable of handling any unforeseen circumstances.”

The Demon King didn't break eye contact as he answered Bathory.

After confirming that the other Legion Commanders were silent, he continued.

“So, I ask again, Zeroth Legion Commander. Do you accept this mission?”

“…When do I depart?”

“As soon as possible. I’ve prepared the necessary funds and resources. Infiltrate the Academy before the entrance exam.”

“Understood.”

“Then this matter is settled.”

The moment I had been waiting eight years for ended swiftly.

The Demon King continued.

“The next matter. One of the artifacts stored by the Second Legion has been stolen…”

“Well, that happened while I was away on the battlefield.”

Bathory replied nonchalantly.

“Has it been recovered?”

“It seems they escaped immediately. Not yet.”

I remembered this incident.

If I recall correctly, the thieves would be caught by the protagonist’s group and killed, and the artifact would be retrieved.

At least, it wasn't something I needed to worry about right now.

“Then handle it as you see fit.”

“Very well.”

The meeting continued.

After the meeting…

“Zeroth Legion Commander.”

The Demon King called out to me as the other Legion Commanders began to leave.

I tensed, unprepared for this.

“Stay for a moment.”

“Go ahead, Aria.”

Bathory started to approach me but stopped.

I followed the Demon King, leaving Bathory behind.

“Tea or coffee?”

“…Coffee, please.”

Strong, if possible.

The Demon King led me to a reception room and offered me a drink.

The offer suggested a lengthy conversation.

After a servant brought our drinks, the Demon King finally spoke.

“You must be wondering why I called you here.”

“I can’t deny that.”

“I simply wanted to confirm one thing.”

He took another sip of his drink.

“To be blunt, do you intend to betray me?”

“Betrayal…”

“The Legion Commanders are mostly demons. And as the Demon King, they have no choice but to be loyal to me.”

“But you, a human Legion Commander, are an unknown factor.”

I finally understood why he had called me here.

He was considering the possibility of me joining forces with the Hero against him.

It was a valid concern, given that was what happened in the hidden route.

However…

“Do you remember how many humans I’ve killed since arriving in the Demon Realm?”

“Two years.”

More accurately, two years and six months.

Unless I could turn back time, and even then… it was too late for me to return.

“I’ve been a traitor for two years already.”

“I see.”

The Demon King nodded in understanding.

He gestured to a servant standing nearby.

The servant left the room and returned moments later, carrying a box.

“What’s this?”

“You’ll need to conceal your abilities in the human world. Consider this a personal gift.”

Open it.

I opened the box to reveal something wrapped in cloth.

Unwrapping the cloth, I found a sword.

“…!”

“I see you like it.”

“Honestly… Yes, very much.”

Despite its thin blade, one side was black like obsidian, and the other was white like platinum.

The golden hilt was adorned with a red jewel, and a crimson thread was wrapped around the grip.

One of the best weapons in the game, a hidden item obtainable only after defeating the Demon King.

Its name was Light and Shadow.

This item, which doubled light and dark attribute damage, was an incredibly powerful weapon for Aria.

He was giving this to me?

“Then I’ll be going.”

“You’re leaving already?”

The Demon King rose as if he had nothing more to say.

He stopped as he reached the door.

“That necklace.”

“Yes?”

His gaze shifted to my neck, where my ruby necklace rested.

“She took it from me about two years ago. I see you like it.”

I thought it was just one of Bathory’s trinkets.

He had given it to her?

“It’s valuable, so take good care of it.”

“…Understood. It’s precious to me as well.”

The Demon King walked down the corridor.

“Were you eavesdropping?”

He addressed someone leaning against the wall, waiting for him.

“I was curious what you were discussing with Aria.”

“Hmph. Giving one of the Demon Realm's most valuable treasures to that girl. You’ve fallen hard.”

“It’s not a waste at all.”

Bathory, or rather, Asmodeus, stood up straight.

“So, how did it go?”

“Nothing much. I just confirmed her loyalty.”

“Confirmation? You had two other Legion Commanders on standby.”

As Bathory pointed out, the First and Third Legion Commanders were still in the castle.

Both were fully prepared for battle. Or perhaps, given her strength, she had sensed their presence?

“Was that why you dismissed us… me? Because you were worried I would help her?”

Aria wouldn’t have known, but if her answer hadn’t been satisfactory, a battle would have erupted.

A battle against two Legion Commanders and the Demon King.

A battle she couldn't possibly win.

“Since nothing happened, I assume she passed.”

“I’ll admit, I believe she can be trusted, at least for now.”

“I told you I would take responsibility.”

“Only for now.”

They exchanged a look.

“Remember those words.”

With the Demon King’s final words, they turned and walked in opposite directions.

Shing

Click

Shing

Click

The two-toned blade of the sword slid in and out of its sheath.

It wasn’t insomnia that kept me awake.

I hadn’t had any nightmares since that day, so falling asleep wasn’t a problem.

But…

“Sigh…”

I looked down at the sword in my hand, a weapon I shouldn't possess.

It filled me with a sense of unease.

The story would begin now.

I wasn’t sure if it would unfold as I remembered.

Someone once said that fate was like a giant wave, impossible to resist.

Meaning my death, as Aria, was inevitable.

But…

“Bullshit.”

I had survived hell.

I had endured countless times when I wanted to end my life.

I had killed dozens, hundreds of fellow humans, and yet, I was still here.

The guilt and self-loathing hadn't disappeared; they had simply become numb.

Despite being broken, I was still alive.

“Let’s see who wins.”

That dawn, a Legion Commander began to move.

.....................................................................................................................................................................................

Chapter 17: The Road to Empire (1)

“Catch her!”

“Tch…”

I rolled to the side as the spot where I had been standing exploded.

A golden blast of holy power lit up the surroundings, but I didn't have time to admire it.

They should’ve tightened security!

There were two main ways to travel from the Demon Realm to the Academy:

One was to journey on foot or by carriage. The other was through a portal.

Traveling on foot from the Demon Realm meant crossing the front lines against the Empire, making it practically impossible.

I had chosen to travel through a portal to a nearby city, obtain identification, and then take a carriage to the Academy.

However, there was one problem.

Opening a portal required significant resources and magic power, so it was natural to have guards stationed there.

But what kind of guards could the Demon King muster besides demons and their followers?

The Holy Kingdom, sensing something amiss, had dispatched paladins to ambush the portal.

So, I stepped out of the portal and into a battlefield.

I was momentarily taken aback but tried to slip away unnoticed. My attempt was thwarted…

“Where do you think you’re going?”

Damn, the Hero!

…by a paladin who spotted me.

The others quickly joined the chase.

“There’s a suspicious individual over there!”

“Don’t let her escape!”

About twenty paladins were pursuing me.

Ordinary paladins weren't a threat, but…

“You won’t escape!”

I didn’t expect this…

…I sensed a power unlike the others.

I hadn’t anticipated one of humanity’s strongest forces, a Hero, to be present.

Perhaps this was for the best.

It was unrealistic to expect the portal to hold out against a Hero.

If I had left any later, the portal would likely have been destroyed, forcing me to find another way.

In the worst-case scenario, I would have had to cross the front lines between the Empire and the Demon Realm unarmed.

That didn't mean I was happy about the current situation.

If it weren’t for this…!

Normally, a single Hero wouldn't be a problem.

Fighting two or three Heroes at once was commonplace on the front lines, where Heroes outnumbered Legion Commanders two to one.

But I had to conceal my identity.

My shadow abilities were sealed.

I could overpower them with Light and Shadow, the sword at my waist, but that would reveal my identity.

Why did he have to give me such a conspicuous sword?!

What good was its power if I couldn’t use it?!

I pulled my hooded robe tighter, channeling magic into my legs to accelerate, but the Hero, one of humanity’s strongest, kept pace.

His attacks sliced through trees, clearing a path for the other paladins to follow.

“…!”

A chill ran down my spine. My instincts screamed danger.

I turned to see a golden wave of holy power rushing towards me.

It pulverized everything in its path: earth, trees, rocks. Its range and power dwarfed the attacks of the other paladins.

So this was the power of a Hero.

This is troublesome…

I had no time to hesitate.

A jet-black shadow enveloped my hand, forming a gauntlet.

This much should be fine, hidden by the light.

My magic-infused fist collided with the wave of holy power.

Screech!

The two forces clashed like grinding gears, each trying to push the other back. But I had no intention of taking this force head-on.

I opened my right palm, pivoting on my right foot, redirecting the wave of energy towards the forest.

Boom!

The golden energy tore through the trees, disappearing into the forest depths.

A moment later, a bright flash erupted, and when I looked ahead…

“Tch…”

“Surrender. I’ll spare your life if you do.”

The Hero stood some distance away, sword pointed at me. The paladins had surrounded me.

There was no escaping without a fight.

Did I have to fight?

I scanned the surroundings. There were no other significant threats.

If I could break through the Hero, no one could stop me.

As I prepared for battle, they channeled their magic power.

Our eyes met, tension filling the air. I bent my knees.

We both prepared to spring forward.

Rumble, rumble, rumble…

The ground suddenly began to shake.

I thought it might be the Hero's doing, but he seemed just as surprised as I was.

“What’s…!”

“Kiii!”

Before the paladin could finish his sentence, a wave of black surged from the forest, engulfing us.

Eight legs covered in hard carapace, four pairs of yellow eyes glowing ominously in the darkness.

Giant spider monsters.

Despite the sudden attack, the paladins held their ground, but the chaos created an opening.

And I wasn't one to miss an opportunity.

I darted past the Hero, using the spider monsters as stepping stones.

My target was the source of the spiders.

“Stop…!”

“Deal with the monsters first! Regroup!”

A paladin tried to stop me, but the Hero’s voice rang out.

He was probably worried about civilian casualties.

Fortunately for me.

“Was this the cause?”

I continued to leap across the spiders' backs, weaving through the trees until I saw a hole in the ground.

Smoke billowed from it, and the spiders, ignoring me, continued to pour out, enraged.

It seemed my redirected attack had struck their nest.

Not my problem. I continued moving away from the battle until the sounds faded.

I finally stopped when the sun rose.

They wouldn't be able to follow me now.

“It’s already morning…”

I needed to reach a nearby town to establish a new identity.

The problem was that the broker who could help me only operated at night.

And more importantly…

“…I’m lost.”

I was supposed to receive a map and supplies after arriving through the portal, but that hadn't been possible.

Without a map, I had no way to find my way.

The only clue was the smoke rising in the distance.

Smoke meant people. I started walking towards it.

Fortunately, it wasn't far.

After about ten minutes, I saw tents.

I approached cautiously, eavesdropping on a conversation.

“We hit the jackpot this time.”

“Yeah, we got some high-quality goods.”

Jackpot? High-quality goods?

I couldn't tell what they were talking about.

Judging by the weapons they carried, it wasn’t anything ordinary.

Well, it shouldn't be a problem to ask for directions.

“Excuse me, could I ask you something?”

“W-What?!”

Two men turned towards me, startled by my sudden appearance. They reached for the swords at their waists.

“I’m just lost.”

I removed my hood, and their eyes widened before their expressions softened.

Their gazes lingered on me, their intentions clear.

“She’s quite pretty.”

“I’ll get the boss. Stay here and keep an eye on her.”

One of the men ran towards a tent.

After a brief commotion, he returned.

“Hey, the boss wants you inside.”

“You better cooperate, missy. You don't want to see what happens if you don't.”

They led me inside the tent, where a large man, presumably their leader, sat.

“Hah, a woman? I thought they were joking.”

“I told you, boss.”

The subordinate spoke, but the leader ignored him, his eyes on me.

“You look like a noble lady. Why are you traveling alone?”

He seemed to be mistaking me for a noble.

A beautiful woman traveling alone with a sword? It was an understandable assumption.

Narcissistic, but true.

“I got separated from my companions.”

“My, my. Why don’t you travel with us? We can offer you protection for a small fee.”

He sounded kind, but his gaze was anything but.

An ordinary person wouldn’t fare well in their company.

“Just tell me the way, and that will be enough.”

“No need to be so reserved.”

“That’s all I need.”

My repeated refusals made them drop the act.

“Sorry, missy, but this isn’t a request.”

“We’ll be gentle if you cooperate.”

“You’ll enjoy it.”

They drew their weapons, surrounding me.

I wasn’t in a good mood.

I was exhausted from being chased by a Hero all night, and now these thugs were causing trouble.

I had wanted to kill them the moment I saw their leering gazes, but I had held back twice.

They had wasted their chances.

“Then I’ll ask the survivor for directions.”

“Haha, do you really think you can beat us all…!”

“I’m sorry, but…”

I drew my sword, swinging it at the man who grabbed my shoulder.

“…this isn't a request either.”

The tent was filled with…

“Gaaaaa!”

“H-Help me!!!”

…a whirlwind of blood.

....................................................................................................................................................................................

Chapter 18: The Road to Empire (2)

The slave traders Aria encountered were not weak.

The fact that they were still in business, despite slave trading being illegal, was a testament to their strength.

The man they called “boss” was a renowned figure in the underworld.

He had a bounty on his head, placed by both the Adventurer’s Guild and the nobility, yet he continued to operate, even hunting the bounty hunters who came after him.

So why…

P-Please, spare me! I’ll—Ugh…!

Gyaaaa! My arm! My aaarm!!!

…was this carnage unfolding?

The reason was simple.

“Is this all it takes to call something a ‘declaration’?”

Even all of them combined were weaker than her.

A lone woman, untouched by the surrounding bloodbath.

Within the blood-soaked tent, a black reaper harvested lives.

Dozens of them, yet they couldn’t even muster the courage to fight against a single opponent.

Their strongest, the boss, had both his arms severed the moment he drew his sword.

His subordinates, who rushed to his defense, followed him to the afterlife.

These men, hardened by a life of violence, were now nothing more than terrified lambs.

They might feel wronged.

How could they have known that a lone woman would be an existence beyond their comprehension?

But they were simply…

“Are you the last one?”

“S-Spare…!”

Slice

…unlucky.

I looked around. Only corpses remained.

A familiar sight.

The last survivor lay on the ground, headless.

“Sigh… What am I going to do with this…”

Normally, I would have left one alive for interrogation.

But two years on the front lines had left me with a… side effect.

Once I started killing, it was hard to stop.

I couldn’t question the dead, so I moved on.

They would have needed a map to travel, so it had to be somewhere.

I searched the boss’s belongings, hoping to find something useful.

Bags of gold coins and several sets of keys.

Nothing of value.

The other tents and the crates yielded nothing as well.

Did they really not carry a spare map?

They were clearly not running a legitimate business.

Or perhaps the route was so familiar that they didn’t need one.

“I’ll have to follow the road, then… Huh?”

Despite thinking I had killed everyone, I sensed multiple presences coming from within.

Be quiet!

I’m scared…

Are we going to die?

They were trying to hide, but they couldn’t hide from me.

I followed the sound to the entrance of a cave.

Slice

I cut through the locked gate, light flooding the cave.

Startled, the figures inside scrambled away from me.

Humans, beastkin, and various other races huddled together.

They all shared one thing in common: slave collars around their necks.

The most striking figure was a young girl at the front.

“What are you going to do to us?”

“…An elf?”

Blue eyes met mine in the darkness.

Her golden hair was tangled and dusty, but her pointed ears were unmistakable.

Looking at the elf girl, I remembered what the slave traders had been talking about.

So the “high-quality goods” were elves.

Elves were rare.

Beautiful, long-lived, and naturally talented with bows and spirit magic, they were known as the people of the forest.

Should I have spared them?

Elves were fiercely protective of their kin, known to eradicate entire families for enslaving their kind.

These slave traders would have been killed by elves eventually, even without my intervention.

“Answer me. What are you going to do…?”

Perhaps due to her captivity, her words were sharp.

It was understandable for her to be wary, but it was still unpleasant to be spoken to like that after saving them.

“I have no intentions. I just happened to find you.”

“Don’t lie! You’re probably with them!”

“I’m alone.”

She continued to eye me suspiciously.

There was no point in reasoning with her.

It was easier to just get what I needed.

Slice

I cut through the girl’s collar with a single stroke.

“What…?”

“I thought it would be uncomfortable.”

She touched her neck, but there was no wound.

“Do you really… have no ulterior motives?”

“I told you, it was a coincidence.”

Her tone softened, perhaps from surprise, but I didn’t comment on it.

I freed the others, and they slowly began to stand.

“…Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

The elf girl approached me hesitantly, expressing her gratitude.

She then looked away shyly.

“Is there anything I can do to repay you?”

“Could you tell me the way to the nearest town?”

“We need to travel there as well. Why don’t we go together?”

She pointed to the side, where several people were preparing a carriage.

It was probably the only way for them to travel in their current state.

“Alright. I’ll take you up on that offer.”

“I’m Lena.”

“I’m Aria.”

That was my first encounter with Lena, the beginning of a long relationship.

The journey to the nearest town was uneventful.

Fortunately, it was the same town I had originally been heading for.

“So, why are you going to the town?”

“To get supplies for the Academy entrance exam and then take a carriage there.”

“You’re an Academy applicant too?”

“Are you as well, Lena?”

“…You could say that.”

Lena had started speaking informally.

We talked for half a day before arriving at the town gates.

“State your purpose.”

“I rescued these people from slave traders on the way here.”

“What? Slave traders? What do you…”

The guard looked at the people in the carriage in surprise before bowing to me.

“Thank you for your assistance.”

“It was nothing.”

“I must report this to the lord. Could you come with me?”

I nodded, and he led us to the lord’s mansion.

After explaining the situation and refusing a reward, I was finally free.

“…You can come out now.”

It seemed I wasn't the only one waiting.

I had noticed them following me since I entered the town.

At first, I thought they were simply surprised by the rescued slaves, but their gazes were fixed on the carriage.

As if they recognized it.

“Three on the roof, two in the left alley, and one around the corner.”

Did they think I wouldn't notice?

As I spoke, they emerged from their hiding spots.

Cloaked and hooded, weapons drawn.

“You knew?”

“You weren’t exactly subtle.”

“Then this will be quick. Come quietly if you don’t want to die.”

The man in front released his killing intent. His subordinates followed suit.

“Oh…”

They were strong.

Stronger than the slave traders.

But…

“Who are you trying to intimidate?”

Slice

“Gyaaa! My eye! My eye…!”

They were nothing more than thugs.

The man clutched his bleeding eye socket, writhing on the ground. Another swing of my sword, and his head flew off.

A gruesome scene, painted with blood.

“N-No way…”

“The boss… in one blow…”

“A monster… we can’t win…”

The assassins faltered, terrified by what they had witnessed.

Witnessing their leader’s death was clearly a shock.

“Die.”

Shadows pierced the hearts of those who tried to flee.

Five of the six assassins were dead. I was about to kill the last one when…

“Haa… No… I have to restrain myself…”

…I stopped, the black blade inches from his skin.

I almost killed the only source of information again.

“You.”

“Y-Yes!”

“Answer my questions, and I’ll let you live.”

“Ask me anything! I’ll tell you everything!”

“Sigh…”

The man nodded frantically. I looked up at the white moon and sighed.

It was going to be a long night.

....................................................................................................................................................................................

Chapter 19: The Road to Empire (3)

The sun began to rise.

I stood before a building.

“Is this the right place?”-

A large building stood out among the surrounding shabby houses. A sign read "Mark's Trading Company."

The lights on the second floor were off, but the first floor was still lit.

Knock, knock

I opened the door and stepped inside.

A variety of furniture filled the space, and an old man sat at the reception desk.

“Chuckle, chuckle. What brings a young lady like yourself here at this late hour?”

“I’d like to see the owner.”

“Could you tell me your business?”

“I’d like to buy some black blood.”

“…And how much do you require?”

“As little as possible.”

I used the prearranged code, and the old man’s eyes changed.

He nodded, rising from his seat and walking towards a nearby shelf.

“You must be the one the owner mentioned.”

“Can I see him now?”

“Of course. And you don't have to be so formal with a lowly old man like me.”

He pulled on one of the books on the shelf.

As the book slid back into place, a mechanism whirred, and…

Rumble, rumble…

…the wall behind the shelf transformed into a staircase leading down.

“Please, go ahead.”

“Thank you.”

I descended the stairs into a long corridor.

Luminous magical tools provided dim light, but the corridor felt eerie. I reached a door at the end.

I opened the ornate wooden door and was greeted by a woman, presumably a secretary, and a man.

“Welcome, Zeroth Legion Commander. We’ve been expecting you.”

“And you are?”

“Ah, my apologies. Allow me to introduce myself.”

The man rose, placing a hand on his chest, and bowed.

“I am Mark, one of the Demon King’s loyal servants. As you can see, I manage this trading company.”

“I see.”

“I’ve prepared everything you’ll need.”

He handed me an envelope.

Inside, I found identification papers, a house address, and a bank book.

“As requested, your identity is that of a commoner. The funds in the account have been laundered, so you won’t be suspected.”

“This is sufficient.”

“Finally, the house we’ve provided is also owned by our trading company, so you shouldn’t have any problems.”

Mark finished his explanation and took a sip of tea.

I spoke.

“When can I depart?”

“Whenever you’re ready.”

“Then please prepare everything for my departure after I finish some business.”

“Business?”

Mark looked at me questioningly.

I told him about the incident with the slave traders.

“…You had a conflict with the black market?”

“I needed to send a warning before things got out of hand.”

They had ignored the invitation (assassins), so it was only polite to follow up.

They probably wouldn’t appreciate it, but I preferred to avoid future complications.

“Should we prepare some of our men?”

“No, I prefer to work alone. Just tell me the location.”

“Understood.”

Mark watched as I turned to leave. His secretary spoke.

“I pity the black market for provoking the Reaper of the Demon Realm.”

“It’s been a while since I’ve heard that nickname.”

The nickname was given to Aria shortly after she became the Zeroth Legion Commander.

The demons hadn't welcomed her ascension, especially since she appeared to be a young human girl. Several demons challenged her, only to be met with the Zeroth Legion’s massacre. All but one of the challengers, who was spared to become her secretary, were slaughtered.

That was how she earned the nickname “Reaper of the Demon Realm.”

She didn't seem to like it, but most demons now addressed her by her nickname, fearing her power.

“Well, since you said it was a warning, I assume she won’t kill them.”

“I’ll prepare the carriage.”

“Yes.”

The secretary left the room, leaving Mark alone in silence.

I followed Mark’s contact through the underground passages, finally arriving at the black market.

The security was tight, but I passed through without any problems.

As I walked, taking in the sights, a commotion drew my attention. A group of men approached.

The man in the suit at the front spoke.

“I’m Owen, Mr. Havel’s secretary.”

“What do you want?”

“Mr. Havel is quite displeased with your recent actions. He requests your presence.”

“Oh…”

Their response was faster than I expected.

“And if I refuse?”

“…I wouldn’t recommend it. We’ll have to take you by force.”

Figures emerged from the shadows, their killing intent directed at me.

Compared to the true “monsters” I had faced, this was laughable.

I released my own killing intent, pushing back against theirs. The secretary spoke, flustered.

“W-Wait a moment. He doesn't want to make a scene.”

His voice wavered, betraying his anxiety.

His eyes darted around, and his hands trembled.

I was considering killing them all… but he’s perceptive.

He had realized that refusing would mean their deaths.

“Fine, I’ll go with you.”

“…Thank you.”

I hadn’t intended to kill them anyway. I had promised Mark it was just a warning.

“This way, please.”

The secretary, now more respectful, led me to Havel’s mansion.

A muscular man sat on a sofa, smoking.

He stood at least two meters tall, and the scars peeking through his clothes spoke of a violent life.

His name was Havel.

The owner of this black market, he was in a foul mood.

His slave traders had been attacked, and the assassins he sent were found dead in an alley.

According to his subordinates, all of this was the work of a single girl.

“Haa…”

The acrid smoke and his killing intent made his subordinates uneasy, but he didn't care.

After a while…

Knock, knock

The secretary entered.

“Sir, I’ve brought her.”

“Let her in.”

Havel’s mood seemed to improve slightly, but it quickly soured as he saw the woman enter, her demeanor relaxed.

“You’re the b*tch who interfered with my business and killed my men?”

“Judging by your kind invitation, you already know.”

“Hah, you’ve got some nerve.”

“I prefer to call it composure.”

The woman’s nonchalant response to his threats was infuriating.

“Normally, you’d offer a guest some tea.”

“…Just kill her.”

“Sigh…”

Havel’s patience wore thin as she continued to provoke him. He gave the order, and his men lunged at her, weapons drawn.

Or rather, they tried to lunge.

“What…?”

A flash of steel.

Bodies fell to the ground, severed in half.

Gurgled cries were their last words.

“And here I am, being polite.”

Her cold voice echoed in the room.

Her bloodstained sword and emotionless tone spoke of the carnage she had just wrought.

“What the…”

Despite the shock, Havel, a veteran of countless battles, reacted instantly, reaching for his sword. But a chilling killing intent, like a serpent sinking its fangs into his neck, froze him in place.

His survival instincts, honed by years of experience, understood.

If I draw my sword, I die.

His body screamed for action, but his instincts screamed for survival.

“…What do you want?”

In this life-or-death situation, he chose to trust the instincts that had kept him alive. Better to cut your losses than lose your life. That was the rule of the underworld.

He, the owner of this black market, hadn't even seen her attack.

Could he even block a single blow if she fought seriously?

He could only imagine his own head rolling on the floor.

He could only hope she didn't want his life.

“What I want…”

She stepped closer, pressing the blade against his neck.

Blood trickled down his skin, but he couldn’t move.

“Don’t bother me again.”

“Is that… all?”

“Yes, that’s all.”

She sheathed her sword, and the oppressive killing intent vanished. Havel could finally move.

“If you send anyone after me again, I won’t just send a warning. I’ll bury this entire black market.”

He could only watch as she left, unable to do anything.

“So…”

I entered an alley after leaving the mansion.

I seemed to be frequenting alleys lately, but they were the perfect place to ambush pursuers.

Whoosh

“W-What? Where…!”

“I wouldn’t recommend moving. You might lose your head.”

The woman, startled by my sudden disappearance, looked around frantically.

She froze as she felt my blade against her neck.

“Why have you been following me?”

“W-Wait!”

Her blue eyes widened in panic.

Her hood fell back, revealing pointed ears and familiar golden hair.

“You better explain yourself.”

…Lena?

...................................................................................................................................................................................

Chapter 20: Reunion (1)

The carriage rattled along the road.

Normally, I would be alone, but not today.

“Th-Thank you.”

“Haa… It’s fine. I was going this way anyway.”

Lena, the elf, sat across from me, avoiding my gaze.

“You better explain yourself.”

“I-It’s…”

She fidgeted nervously, clearly flustered by the sword at her throat.

I wasn't letting her off the hook this time.

“Hmm?”

“Wait! I’ll talk! I’ll talk!”

She blurted out as I tightened my grip on the sword.

I lowered the blade slightly, and she spoke.

“I… I have a favor to ask…”

“You’re dropping the formalities now?”

“Would you speak formally to someone who almost killed you?!”

That was fair.

So her previous polite tone wasn't her usual way of speaking.

“Get to the point.”

“You… You said you were an Academy applicant, right?”

“Yes.”

“Could we possibly travel together…?”

I had suspected it when she mentioned the Academy, but I hadn’t expected her to actually ask to travel with me.

Two conflicting thoughts crossed my mind.

Traveling alone offered freedom, but traveling with her, while slightly restrictive, would make it easier to avoid suspicion.

“I’ll pay you as much as you need…”

“Sigh… I don’t need money. Fine.”

I chose the latter.

That was why we were now in a carriage prepared by Mark’s Trading Company.

I told Mark that traveling with a fellow applicant would be less suspicious, and I lied to Lena, telling her I had already booked the carriage.

Indeed, traveling with another applicant would be less conspicuous.

Are there any problems with supplies?

The distance is the same, and we just need to pack a little more food, so it's not a problem.

They both seemed satisfied, so there shouldn't be any issues.

“We should stop soon to set up camp.”

“Alright.”

The coachman's voice finally broke the silence as the sun began to set.

I agreed, and the carriage stopped shortly after.

We set up tents and ate dinner.

When it was time to decide on watch duty, Lena approached me.

“Are you sure? You don’t need me to take over?”

“I’ll be fine. I can stay up for a night.”

She seemed concerned, but it wasn't a problem.

I used to stay up for days because of nightmares, and besides, the coachman was out of the question, and I wasn't sure about Lena's strength.

“You already provided the carriage… and now you’re taking the first watch…”

“Then I’ll leave the daytime watch to you.”

Nothing would happen during the day.

We weren’t far from the Academy.

“Okay. Wake me up if anything happens.”

“Yes, I will.”

I doubted anything I couldn't handle myself would be solved by waking her up, but it was only polite to agree.

Lena entered her tent, and I soon heard her soft snores.

“Haa…”

I looked up at a particularly bright star, watching as morning approached.

“Are you awake?”

“Are you really okay?”

“I told you, it’s nothing.”

I greeted Lena as she emerged from her tent, and she responded with concern.

I appreciated her worry, but I was fine.

We boarded the carriage, and it set off.

“How much longer until we reach the Academy?”

“We should arrive by midday.”

About five hours.

In the game, this part would have been skipped.

“I recommend getting some rest.”

“Then I will.”

I closed my eyes as Lena suggested.

When I woke up, the carriage had already arrived.

“What are you going to do now, Aria?”

“I’ve booked a room, so I’ll be heading there.”

“You’re quick…”

Lena asked after we disembarked and dismissed the coachman.

She seemed slightly disappointed by my answer.

“What about you, Lena?”

“I’ll be looking for my sister.”

“Is she taking the entrance exam as well?”

“Yes.”

“Then I’ll see you at the exam.”

Since we were going our separate ways, there was no reason to stay together. I parted ways with Lena and headed towards the address written on the document.

After asking for directions, I arrived at the building.

A one-story brick house, slightly larger than I expected for a single occupant.

Well, considering I lived in a castle provided to my legion, I couldn’t complain.

“Excuse me.”

I opened the door and stepped inside.

The interior was clean, as if someone had already tidied up.

There were three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a guest room, and a large kitchen.

“This is a bit too spacious for one person.”

I would only be staying here until the Academy entrance exam, and then only during breaks.

“Well, it’s clean and nice.”

The size was the only thing that bothered me.

“I should buy some necessities.”

The house was furnished with only basic items like a bed and a wardrobe.

The cupboards were bare, so grocery shopping was unavoidable.

“I think I saw a market nearby.”

Fortunately, I had seen a market on the way here.

The sun was still high in the sky, but I didn't know when the market would close, so I put on my robe and headed out.

“Thank you.”

“Come again!”

The shopkeeper greeted me cheerfully after I paid for my purchases.

Thanks to the generous amount of money Mark had provided, shopping wasn’t a problem.

“Excuse me.”

A man bumped into me as I walked down the street.

It didn't hurt, so I apologized and tried to move on, but…

“Hey, missy, you think a simple apology is enough?”

The man grabbed my shoulder. His companions surrounded me.

“You bumped into me. You have to compensate me.”

“What do you want?”

I considered cutting him down, but causing a scene in the Imperial capital would be troublesome.

The man smirked.

“Ten gold coins, and we’ll let you go.”

“Ten gold coins…”

One gold coin was equal to one hundred silver coins.

Ten silver coins were roughly equivalent to a commoner's daily living expenses.

His demand was outrageous.

I wasn't going to pay.

“You were the one who bumped into me.”

“Hah, are you saying I’m wrong?”

“It seems you understand.”

The atmosphere turned hostile.

We both reached for our weapons.

“Wait!”

A blonde figure suddenly intervened.

“Who are you?”

“Her acquaintance.”

“Lena?”

It was Lena.

“Hey, kid, this is adult business. Go home.”

“K-Kid…”

Lena lowered her head at the man’s words.

He pushed her aside.

Boom!

An explosion. The man flew backwards.

“Ugh… Urgh…”

He slammed into a wall, convulsing.

“I was trying to resolve this peacefully…”

“A-Aria?”

“What the hell is she?!”

My sword was still in its sheath.

The added weight was negligible.

“I won’t kill you.”

“Get her!”

“But I will make you regret this.”

With those words, I sent the first man flying, and the one-sided beatdown began.

“Ugh…”

“P-Please, spare us…”

The street was a mess.

The two girls who caused the commotion were long gone, but no one dared to move.

“Excuse me.”

Four people pushed through the crowd.

“What happened…?”

Three of them froze in shock, but a white-haired woman stepped forward.

She approached the injured and extended her hand.

Whoosh

A golden light emanated from her, enveloping the injured.

“What happened here?”

“I-It was… a woman and an elf…”

A bystander spoke hesitantly.

“Did you say an elf?”

A blonde woman next to the white-haired woman reacted strongly.

“Do you remember what she looked like?”

“I… I don’t remember…”

“Did she look anything like me?”

“…!”

The woman removed her hood.

The bystander's eyes widened.

“Elena…”

“Let’s go.”

The woman called Elena was Elena the Divine Archer.

A member of the current Hero’s party.

“It seems I’ve found my sister.”

And Lena’s older sister.

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