He filled the entire castle with light, liberating it from the darkness.

Hobris was unable to take the brunt of Zachary's greatest attack and was felled, revoking his title as a god. In a single instant, he was reduced back to a mere shadow.

"I-I was wrong," said Hobris, clutching his chest. He was fading as well after being purged by the light, his greatest weakness. "I misjudged you to be the weakest one. Your strength, it is not normal. You are unlike any Thalisean that has come to walk the earth-" he placed a hand in front of his mouth and coughed relentlessly until he was able to breathe.

"I fear for my brethren's fate if you are to be left alone for now. Oh how I lament having lost here. But, despair, for now all the demons in this continent know of your existence. You and all that you hold dear will suffer as demons will come for you until you are either dead, or apprehended."

His throat was dry, but he managed a reply.

"And I'll be ready for them when they come. No matter who it is, I won't allow any of them to stop me. I've realized it now, no, maybe I had a long time ago. I may have just ignored it along the way because I was too terrified to come to terms with it. But now I see no other way for me, unfortunately. It's the only path I can walk after this."

"Then you know that only death awaits you in this path?"

"... I do."

"Why do you not despair and regret your circumstance while you can? This may be the only time you will be able to do that."

"Why are you telling me this, demon? I thought you all sought me out. What's with the kind offering?"

"Ahh, yes, you can call it an act of kindness if you wish. You humans seek refuge in the comfort of others in your times of weakness. There you weep and lament that fate you have suffered. But why indeed? To me, it is not of kindness. I might be the only demon to see a Thalisean wallow in despair."

"Well, then I won't grant you that satisfaction. I still despise you for killing Sir Hark, and I always will, even when you have gone."

"I see. Then, I will pass on silently. I have no ounce within me to move a single muscle. Farewell, Thalisean. Thank you for granting me the honor to fight you at my fullest. Before I disappear, convey all your lasting regrets to the man you devoted my defeat to."

"Wait!" he called out. "You told me of something that was binding me earlier. Tell me, what is it? You know of something that I don't."

"Asking your enemy for something that will give you the edge against us? Fool. Realize the answer for yourself. But I shall give you a hint. It is much closer than you think, so close that you will only be able to see it in some instances. I doubt you'll realize it right away. Now leave me to my death."

It's fascinating that a Thalisean born as a human can be this strong. Hobris whispered, only enough for him to hear.

Hobris' eyes slowly closed, and his breathing's pace weakened. He was waiting for his last breath.

Zachary panted; his body was slowly collapsing, but he forced himself to stand with what very little energy he had left. He stood with his sword acting as a cane to hold himself up.

The armor he forged using the one he wore previously was crumbling piece by piece, turning into gold dust, then fading away. It all fell apart until all that he wore were the clothes on his back, tattered and torn.

He was drenched in sweat, and every previous wound that he had opened during his battle with Hobris. Though he was already numb, he was fortunate enough to not feel the pain assault his now fragile mind.

He was on the verge of losing his consciousness, but the thought of wanting to see Theodore one last time, kept him awake.

He heard footsteps close in on him, then stop just a few inches.

"Sir Hark."

"Finally time, is it? Well, where should I start exactly?" he said, scratching the back of his head as he normally would when thinking of something too complicated, or too simple.

"Thank you for helping me, Sir Hark. I wouldn't have done this without your help."

"It wasn't just me. There were more, but most of them have already passed away... They wanted me to thank in their stead, a lot of them exactly."

Sir Hark stood silent for some time, mulling over something. It was until he sighed and smiled that he faced me to speak.

It was especially hard for me to keep a straight face, but I breathed in and out, somehow getting a bit of resolve to follow through.

"So, this will be the last time the two of us see each other? I'm glad I got the chance to see you before I really left. I tried to hold out as best as I could after Louise pleaded, saying that she'll bring you back to Lavis. It was admirable for her to do that, and not even being her real father, I was proud to have had her as a daughter... And you as my own adopted son, believe it or not."

"I'm sorry that I didn't get to you in time. I could have saved you," I stammered on my words and held back the tears.

"I know you tried your best. You haven't even begun your quest, yet look at you, all messed up already. No woman will fall for a man covered in scars, nor will they be with someone who can't even protect them."

"Well, then which category am I in, then?" I laughed wryly, suppressing my tears.

He placed his fading hand on my shoulder and knelt, leveling his eyes to mine.

"Zach, I know it's going to be harder from here on out, and I won't be there to help you anymore. But never lose sight of yourself. You might be the only one who can face the demons, but deep down, you're still you. You might not realize it, but you have a heart of gold. Be sure to never turn your back on who you really are, alright? Even though I'm gone, I hope that you'll be able to fulfill that wish you told me back then, that answer you gave me."

"I-I'm going to be fine even without your help. I think you've trained me well enough to survive for this long. I promise, I won't ever give in until I've fulfilled my own answer."

"Good. If you doubt yourself, then do so with an open mind. Never think that it is the end. Now, I think it's time for me to leave. It's hard enough to delay your death as it was trying to keep myself alive all those years fighting demons. Take good care of Louise, why don't you? She might be a girl whose emotions don't show because of her duties and strict character, but deep inside, she's still an immature girl. She'll need a shoulder to cry on and to lean on whenever it gets tough. I'll be more than fine to leaving her in your care, in fact, you're the only person I can trust with that. You two are like siblings to me already."

"You know you're being irresponsible by leaving her with me, right? I suppose you wouldn't want her to be in constant danger against demons," I wiped my tears and managed a smile. He was slowly fading; his body was losing form. I knew that it was just a matter of seconds now.

"Hah, it's either you, or a boy that I've never met in my entire life. If that were to happen, then I'd come back from the dead to haunt the guy."

"I don't think I can force her from seeking her own happiness, Sir Hark. She's bound to find someone sooner or later. Who knows. But to me, she's someone I can call a sister as well. Though I never felt the feeling of having one, she seems to fit the title just fine."

"Figures... Man, I really hate being dead," he said, lowering his head. "Well, I've got to go before I embarrass myself in front of the last person to see me. Now that'd ruin the title of Hark, the defender of Lavis. Though the time we spent together while I was still alive was short, I'm proud of what you're becoming Zach. Never lose faith in yourself and in what you're doing. I'll always be here," he placed his fist on where my heart was, smiling with beads of tears forming near his eyes. It was the first and only time that I had seen his face like that.

Though it there was a gentle push as he placed his fist on my chest, I felt a strong weight behind it, carrying all his emotions and intentions.

The moment he came into contact with me, he dissolved into countless of small orbs of light that continued floating towards the sky, joining the others who have already gone on their way to the afterlife. But I was happy. I was able to see him go without regrets, and with a smile on his face.

Though I still regret losing him, there is truly nothing I can do about that now but continue in what I am doing. He was proud of it, and that gave me more confidence than he thinks to bear any kind of hardships.

"Thank you, Sir Hark, and... Goodbye."

I finally lost consciousness and fell to the ground without any concern for getting hurt. The mark on the back of my hand, and the other that appeared on the left side of my neck were enough to force me into insanity, but I just didn't have the energy anymore.

However, I heard my name being called repeatedly by many. Their voices sounded familiar, but... who are they again? I can't seem to remember. My head, it's burning up. This sense of agony spreading within my entire body was as intense as ever, maybe even more. It gave the feelings of me being burned as I run to a place where I will be safe. The agony amounted up to a burn that engulfed my skin, burning it to a crisp. Yet that was simply from what I felt.

It was a fact I understood that for some reason, I would be wracked with a great amount of pain every time I would finish using the mark. Its range of the pain would depend on how long I use it for, and how much power I take from it. That fact alone made me hesitant to even use it for a prolonged time.

What's more was that, I seemed to forget more and more with each use. It might just be my imagination, but it was getting harder to remember some things. They seem obvious enough, but I can't say why I'm forgetting these things that I shouldn't be forgetting in the first place.

My body already felt half burnt, the right half of me. My hand and leg on that side just wouldn't stop trembling until after I felt the warm touch of someone twine their fingers in mine.

"Zach! Zach, hang in there! Damn, I don't think he can hear us."

"A doctor, physician, anyone who can help, call them here right away!"

Their voices were loud. They were in a state of panic for some reason.

I could hear the sound of weeping, and the feeling of droplets of water falling upon my face.

I could hear her voice drawing me back from my long-awaited slumber.

"Please, Zach, don't leave me... Not like this, after saving all of us. It doesn't matter who you are to me, I just don't want you to disappear, Zach! You told me that you'd see this through... We made that promise that you'd see me finally fulfill my dream, right?"

Ah, her voice, I remember her now. Why did it take me so long to remember? This is a shame I'll carry with me for a long time.

"T-There, there. No need for tears... Not yet. It's not time for that yet... Soon, but not now." I spoke softly, slowly opening my eyes and instinctively placing my left hand on her cheek.

"Zach! Oh, thank goodness, you're alright! I don't know what I could've have done if... if..."

She didn't finish her sentence but simply tightened her embrace.

With this, I can sleep peacefully.

Though it looked as if though the chapter for this kingdom was coming to an end, it was far from over. Many knew that for it was just the beginning of an uphill battle.

A few days after the battle to retake the capital city, word spread quickly of the one who liberated the people of their woes. The existence of the last living Thalisean came to the ear of every human on the continent in an instant, igniting a resolute flame of hope within every one of their hearts.

It was a a given that the demons would be at an uproar hearing news such as this, but the humans could not clearly tell whether they were perturbed by the announcement or not. Even if his existence has been proven, they were still to be feared. They now sought the life of the Thalisean.

But for the kingdom of Alrifer, though their numbers were now few, they continued to free their kingdom from the infestation of demons that had entered the kingdom's borders through the Luvic wall. Their rekindled vigor gave them the desperate help they needed to overcome such a daunting task, but the events that transpired showed that they would be able to overcome any enemy through unity with one another.

But this was made true only after Daphne Everric Luvierre, the daughter of the respected late king, Halycn Luvierre, ascended the throne, reclaiming it in her rightful place.

There was no coronation, but instead, she held small feast for all citizens of the kingdom to come together to. She focused on getting people to trust her for she knew that it was foolish to rely on something such as a name and lineage to support your claim and right to rule. It would be won over by the truthfulness of ones heart, and its intention for those surrounding them.

She made her vow to break the boundaries of the system which segregated the classes, earning her a terrible first impression from the populace, which are mostly composed of the nobility. But the masses backed her up, and soon began the first step to changing the kingdom. It would take a long time, but the first step was the most important part for her.

And as for the Thalisean. Surely there were thoughts of how the people of the current city reacted to his existence?

They clamored and cheered, expecting to meet their savior. But, they couldn't. Not because he didn't want to see them, nor was there any motives behind it. The reason was that he fell into a deep slumber and has been asleep ever since.

He had been named the hero of Alrifer, the savior and liberator of its capital, long with Daphne, Everett, Albert, Aster, and Lia for their efforts.

It has been a week since then...

She smiled solemnly at him, combing his hair back gently with her soft, delicate hands. As she stared at his face, many thoughts about their adventures resurfaced to her mind. She never forgot them, but they were pushed back to the depths of her mind. She now had her duty to her people, and to dedicate it to one man would... not be a problem, that was her thoughts. But she knew that it was impossible, not when the state of her kingdom was like this. She could not give her attention to one person for many look to her for hope.

"Have you been well, Zach? I'm glad to see you again, you know? But, I'm still sad that you're asleep. You've like that for so long that it's worried me day in and day out. No day has passed where I have not thought about you. Your heart beating, your body having warmth, you breathing, they've given me hope that you will still awake. I know that you will. You have a rather strong sense of duty. I know that you'll soon wake and head on to your next adventure, but... I don't know when that will be. And I'm scared to death that it might never come, more so that it will, and we might part ways."

She placed her face against his hand and felt its warmth.

"But I will be strong. I've been able to manage for an entire week after that, so I can't say that I don't doubt myself."

She had come to him many times to Mesolvia to tell him what had happened to her, what she had seen, and what she had felt during those times. She told him stories and didn't care in the least whether he would respond or not. She was happy being able to be by his side through it all.

When the battle finished, Zachary had been found collapsed on the castle's floor. No matter how hard they tried, he did not awaken, so they thought to move him somewhere he could recover and be away from the expectant masses.

They had taken turns in taking care of him in these few weeks. This time, it was Daphne's turn. It would be short, yet she would not hesitate to go.

She glanced at the vase where she placed a beautiful array of flowers and felt serenity though it. Then her attention brought her to the door where she heard knocking.

"Daphne, it's time to go back. We still have urgent matters to take care of." Everett stood by the door frame with his arms crossed. The sternness on his face never truly dissipated even after all this. His steel-like demeanor was one of the great pillars that held the kingdom up from falling freely. 

She stood up and took one last glance at him. before walking over towards the door.

"What matters need to be settled next?" she asked him.

"We're mobilizing a small unit to attack a small detachment of demons terrorising thinly defended areas."

"Another one, then?"

"Precisely. Don't get tired of it yet. This is just the beginning. We can't hope to take them all down in one fell swoop, not with the Thalisean incapacitated. We're stretched thin as it is."

"Then the unit has been assembled?"

"They're waiting for us by the town's gates. I'll brief you on the way. There's nothing too notable about them, but that doesn't mean we need to be complacent. The kingdom is still trying to regain its footing, after all."

"I understand..." she replied half-heartedly.

"Don't worry, I think these three kids are at least competent enough to take care of him." He made room for them as his body nearly covered the entire entrance. 

"Ah, Queen Daphne visiting again as well?" said Dante, kneeling in her presence.

"No need for formalities, Dante. I think we've gone past that now, haven't we?" she said, raising him up to take a good look at him.

"Looking pretty awesome again today, miss Daphne?" he said casually, admiring how imposing and magnificent she looked wearing her armor with her long hair.

"Thank you for the compliment, Caden," she winked, making him wriggle in place, not making any effort in hiding his embarrassment. He tried to mask it, but simply twiddled his thumbs, evading her gaze, which only led to him being laughed at by his friend, and new additions.

"I might be wrong about some being 'at least' competent," Everett said coolly with his eyes closed. 

"Oh don't be such a worrier, general," he pestered Everett playfully. "You don't show it, but you were pretty restless when you made your way here earlier. You don't show it, but you're pretty concerned for Zach, too, aren't you?"

"I don't think there was a change from his usual expression on his was here, Caden. You might have seen a mirage," said Dante.

"Hmm?" Everett's eyes turned to Caden, which appeared fierce to them, but to him was fairly normal.

Caden and the others flinched at the sight of his glare and tried their best to hide their surprise by laughing wryly.

"Now, now. No need to get too overjoyed, general. Sorry about that," said Caden in a fright, scratching his head thinking of what the terrifying general might do to him. He felt his stomach rumbling, meaning a terrible omen for his fate soon enough if he doesn't do anything to appease him.

"Daphne!" Erica ran under Everett's arms and ran towards Daphne, embracing her with her usual joyful expression. "We're going to take care of Zach today, so leave him to us!"

"Ah, Erica!" she said gleefully, returning her embrace. "I know I can trust you to do that, Erica. But don't strain yourself too hard. I know how worried you are for him still. You can't hide that from me."

She laughed wryly at being discovered. "Well that's truly embarrassing," she fidgeted in place.

"That goes for you two as well. Don't overwork yourselves. Not just for my sake, but for his as well," she glanced at Zachary, who didn't so much as budge at the noise entering his room.

"Oh, I nearly forgot!" Erica said, running out of the door to chase someone whose voice sounded in the distance.

She carefully pulled on his sleeve and guided him, bringing in Albert Foster, who wore a few bandages and a cast on his other arm, panting as he held on to his cane for dear life. There he was followed by a wolf with snow white fur, playfully circling the room.

"My, these kids," he said, wiping the sweat from his brows. "It seems that I underestimated not just their vigor, but my age as well, Ohohoho. But I will say that it has been quite a thrill to go do things that I have during my childhood. Makes me forget how old I am now."

"Sir Foster!" cried out Daphne, supporting him. "Are you sure that you should be out and about? You've barely even recovered yet."

"She's right, old man. You look like you're ready to snap and collapse at any moment. Don't slave yourself to kids. That'll be your biggest shame as the third seat of the four mages council." Everett responded coldly, looking at Albert's disheveled image.

"You should speak for yourself, you inhuman warmonger! It was you who took the liberty of absorbing most of the powerful hits from those demons. I'm surprised that you're still standing, even. But then again, I might have expected it as well, so the shock is not that baffling as it used to be," he said disappointingly; his shoulders drooping.

"I can't take a rest, and I don't need it. The only time I'll take a rest is when this continent is at peace, or when I've died doing all I can as a man of Alrifer."

They sighed in exasperation upon hearing his staunch resolve for his duty, except for one, who admired him with glimmer in his eyes.

"So cool," Caden whispered to himself, curling both hands into fists. He admired him to the point where he aspired to be just like Everett, a man who looked like man among men. He who would see a stab in the back as an itch brought on by a bug bite. His rugged expression and overly tough image inspired him, but it didn't quite work out all the time. Yet he would always study him whenever he was around.

"Well then, I think it is best if we leave now. Let us go, Everett. Please keep a close eye on them, Albert. I'm sure Lia and Aster are busy making sure that the surroundings are safe, so you need not worry about that."

"I understand, lady Daphne. I wish you good tidings on your tasks. Please do visit again. I soon hope that I might be able to return to duty alongside you, my queen."

She headed one last time to him and whispered.

"I'll be waiting for you, Zach. No matter how long that takes, I'll be waiting. So don't worry about a thing, alright?"

She then headed out to the door only to stop in her tracks. Time froze for all of them in the room.

"Your voice, it brought me back." he spoke, sitting up. He had a weak smile on his face and a sickly complexion. "Thank you for worrying about me and taking care of me for so long."

Without her consent, tears began streaming from her eyes and onto the floor. She mustered to say his name again as it was easy the time before, but only air came out.

He pulled off the bed sheet covering him, revealing his bare torso, covered in bandages and scars on every end. Some on his arm, another on his back, and many more concealed within his leggings.

He tried to stand only to fall down with a loud thud when his right leg gave up on him, and his right arm failed to secure his fall, letting his face hit the floor.

"Zach!" she cried out loudly, running at him instantly. She, along with the three children, raised his body and carried him back on his bed. They were too surprised to say anything, so the silence took over with Zachary being unable to understand what was going on.

Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

"What were you thinking?!" she scolded him. "You're still too weak to walk! Don't you know how worried I became?!-"

Her outburst was cut short with Zachary smiling and wrapping his arms around her, pulling her into a tight embrace.

"It feels like it's been so long since I've last seen you. But it felt strange... I can smell the fragrant scent of your hair like that fragrance that kept me company all these times. It was... nice. It always felt like you were there for me."

"T-That's... not fair," she mumbled. Her arms went weak, falling to her sides. She simply buried her face into chest and cried her heart out.

"I-Is that really you, Zach? You're really alive?" Caden asked in wonder, unable to move from his spot. Though he acted brave, tears started falling from his eyes as well. He wiped them off, but the steady stream came falling from his days' worth of worrying over him, asking himself day after day after knowing who he was, whether the sacrifice he had made in exchange for their lives was worth it. It was not only Caden, but Dante as well who had frequent nightmares because of the weight of such an exchange.

Erica said nothing but simply embraced Zachary as tightly as she could from his sides. She cried as well, muffling it with Zach's leggings. Von followed, whimpering and laying himself close by his feet.

"Erica, you look well. I'm sorry to have made you wait," he smiled at her, meeting nothing but the top of her head. She didn't want to meet his gaze, so he simply patted her on the head and ruffled her hair, laughing.

"I-I'll get the others!" Dante stuttered and stumbled on his way out, shouting with all his might of the great news, alerting the entire town as well. He, especially, could not control his excitement. There was little he could do to hide it anyway for a weight had been lifted from his shoulders, one that showered him with relief.

Many crowded to the house where he was resting, seeing for their own eyes the state of their savior.

Aster and Lia could not control their relief upon hearing the news for it felt too surreal to be true.

"You know how much you made everyone worry? You're really something else, aren't you? I knew my sister was someone who never knew how to feel sad since she's so strict all the time, but she was worrying about you, too-"

Aster could not finish his sentence for Lia had jabbed her elbow on his gut, silencing him.

"I'm glad to see that you're doing well, Zach. I knew you weren't the kind to simply give up. The wait was hectic, but now that doesn't matter."

"Thank you, Lia. I'm really happy to know that you were worried about me as well," he laughed and smiled genuinely.

Lia's eyes widened, and she started averting her gaze from his. Embracing her arms, she looked away and said, "W-Well, Of course I would be worried. If something were to happen to you, then everyone in the entire continent would be troubled."

"Gah!" Aster took in air, recovering from the blow dealt to him. He tightly clutched the part where he was hit and laughed bitterly. "You gotta be more honest than that, Sis. You're going to get left behind soon, haha-"

Again, he was silenced. It looked fatal, but Lia ignored the doubtful stares around her as they looked at the convincing corpse of Aster on the ground.

"I think it is rather unpleasant to have bugs roaming your room, don't you agree, Zach?" said Lia, glaring at Aster from the corner of her eyes.

They shared more laughs and eased the worry in their hearts. Soon, it was as if they had never gone through such hardships with the way they enjoyed each other's company.

"I see... So I had been asleep for that long. How has the capital been?"

"Well, thanks to your efforts, it is recovering at a steady pace. There are still much to fix, but it is nothing that can be impossible for us to achieve," said Everett confidently. "But that will only happen if we get a move on. Come, Daphne. We've stayed for too long. Our task is yet to be finished."

"Very well. Zach, please rest. I'll be back when I've finished up the tasks for today, so don't force your body to move when it can't... I'm glad you're back, Zach." She left with a simple wave and took Everett with him.

Now they were few, catching up as the crowd outside dissipated, satisfied with seeing him well and awake for now.

I spent time with Lia the most in these days. She helped me get myself back on track, recklessly driving myself to move. She was against it at first, but eventually I got through to her.

We were at the town barracks, training my body to adjust to the pain. the progress was miniscule, but having been able to move my hand to do simple things was progress enough. I still had to be assisted when walking alone, so I still had a ways to go.

"You truly are a reckless one, aren't you? Truth be told, I assumed the worst and thought that you'd be bedridden at best. But look at you. The determination spurs something within me, it's quite courageous. It still puzzled me how you were able to endure such a time under torture and still come back to fight."

"Thank you, Lia. Well, I don't think I would have ever gotten out of prison if it weren't for you."

"No, I owe you as well. In fact, I don't think I ever got the chance to thank you earnestly."

"Don't worry about it. It's the least I can do. Saving someone just for a reward isn't something that sits well with me."

"Will you accept it anyway? I don't have much to offer you, but tradition still stands. To have saved someone like me, a demon, or rather a Half-breed. It states that I have to serve you if you utter my true name, the one I have as a demon. Cornelia is simply a name given to me by mother, but my true name was given by my father. I shall give you my true name, and my eternal service."

"That's too heavy of a reward! You can't just give it away like that. It's precious to you, your freedom. I can't take that away from you."

"You don't have to feel any sort of weight behind it. I'm giving it to you of my own volition. I will never give it to anyone else except you, that was clear to me."

She stared up at me with expectant eyes and waited for my response.

In truth, I would gladly accept it, but as simple as a name was, this was one that was complicated. Saying yes meant more than just knowing her name then being bound to my every order.

"I don't think I deserve it yet, the way I am. I'm happy that you thought of giving me something that special, but I'm not ready to lift that kind of weight yet. It's sad, but I know myself too much sometimes. I'll gladly accept it when the time comes that I'm deserving of such an honor. Will that be alright with you, Lia?" I answered her without taking my eyes off of her. It was a firm yet stern response that I could agree with.

"Fine, I can accept that. It's true that I might have acted on impulse as well, thank you for setting me straight before I moved because of my emotions. But now you just prove it more that you are deserving of it." She heaved a sigh and smiled in relief. "I will wait for that time. Still, I can't not do something for the one who saved me. Take this as an incentive. Close your eyes," she said, placing both hands behind her in a lovely and charming way. Though she usually acted serious and dutiful, there was a drastic change in her persona that I didn't mind. In fact, it made me smile seeing her this way, slightly flustered with her cheeks flushed for some reason.

My heart began to beat as I closed my eyes, thinking of what she would give me in this case. We were in a place where only the two of us were present. I'm sure of it, that can only be the plausible reward in tis case!

I caught a pleasant scent waft to my nose, tickling my senses.

My heart began beating faster than ever. I tensed up but kept my cool composure, however shaky it looked on the outside.

Then I felt a soft but warm touch upon my cheek.

Opening my eyes, I saw Lia averting her eyes, standing still as if nothing had happened. I touched that part and stared at her in a daze.

"That is the only thing of worth that I can give you right now, so forgive me, Zach."

That day, I thought back on it more times than I could count. I asked her to confirm what it meant, but she said that it was left up to my own imagination to think of whatever it meant. By that time, she never brought it up, and every time that I would, she would act like it never happened.

Before I knew it, my heart was beating uncontrollably. Having thought about it too much, I assumed that she had some kind of feeling towards me. Thinking about it, I was happy beyond compare. I would say that it more than enough of a reward, but something even better than that.

"Are you sure you should be out? Daphne told you to stay and rest, as did the physicians." Aster said, acting as my support. I still couldn't manage to walk alone as I lacked the energy to use my right leg and hand. Not just that, it felt like the right half of my body was numb from the pain. If it has been a week, then it is strange and rather terrifying to think that I won't ever recover from this.

"She worries about me too much. If I let something as simple as this hold me back, then I don't think I'd last long enough to see things through, don't you think?"

"Well, I guess you have a point there. Fine, I'll go along with it. But you better feel some remorse when she finds out and scolds me."

"I'll go the extra step and even cover for you if you want to."

"Haa..." he exhaled. "That'd help. Honestly, if you're involved, then I'd consider myself safe from her wrath. She's gotten even more relentless and strict about some things, well, in a good way. But when it comes to you, I don't think it'll matter anymore. I'm sure you've noticed it, right?"

"What?"

"Still playing dumb?"

"Not at all. I've known for a long while, even before all this. But I never answered her feelings. I couldn't for some reason."

"So you do know. I don't know if you're intentionally trying, but you're something else when it comes to women. Are you a womanizer before we met by any chance?"

"As if. I hardly knew anyone before we met."

"Sure, I'll believe that. Then you'll tell me that you've met the princess of some kingdom out there and managed to share an intimate time with her in some way? That's just something out of a story book. Doubt that'll happen to anyone, and if it does, they're one lucky bastards, the lot of them."

It struck something within me. I didn't want to answer back, even when he got suspicious. But I remembered her and started questioning how she was doing.

"Well, where do you want to go? I wouldn't recommend going somewhere crowded."

"I think somewhere peaceful is fine."

"Then I know just the place."

Aster led me to a lush spot under a tree. It was located just outside the town, but the walk there was exhilarating. The wind blew gently and coolly on my skin. The smell of grass put me at ease.

"Tell me, whatever happened to the two Demons you all fought?" I asked.

"They escaped, unfortunately. They were too strong for us, but luckily, when we were about to be wiped out, they saw that pillar of light pierce the sky. It made them tremble and lose every ounce of their strength. You saved us, Zach. I don't think you were even aware of it. Thanks for that," he said from beside me, lying down under the same shade.

"Do you think the rest of the kingdom will look as peaceful as this town here?" I asked, looking at the lively and peaceful atmosphere surrounding the town. People moved briskly about, looking like ants from where we sat. On the way here, it was clear as day how their expressions eased, different from those living in the capital city. I can't begin to imagine how hard they have it right now.

Here, there was not a hint of worry on their faces, which put my mind at ease. They didn't look at all perturbed by threats outside these lands. I know they must be worried or even terrified, but right now, they were different. Their smiles gave me a sort of motivation to look forward to.

I thought to myself, "If what I'm rewarded with are smiles for having done my all to save them, then that's worth seeing."

I relaxed and nearly fell asleep, feeling a strong wave of exhaustion wash over me. It seemed that the strain had not dissipated yet. My body was still too weak to use the mark as it had during my battle with Hobris. I couldn't muster the strength to see the faint glimmer behind it.

But now there was another odd question preventing me from resting easily.

Who was that voice that spurred me on when Hobris ascended to godhood? It was no one that I was familiar of, yet I followed and believed in his words. I couldn't see him anywhere, but his voice felt so near and real that I assumed I was hallucinating.

That voice granted me the power to beat Hobris. It seemed to unlock something within me that I didn't know a single thing about. But now, its use is ingrained into my head, preventing any way for me to forget it... Such power, did it really come from me? I don't know what to believe, after all. I'm still searching for clear answers leading to this mark which holds so much history I am oblivious to. Then, if I figure it out, will I be satisfied? No, I'm thinking too deeply into it. No need to get too fed up with something like that right now.

As I wandered in my thoughts, the sound of three familiar voices became louder as they ran towards the slope we rested on.

"Oh, Aster is asleep again!" pointed out Erica, poking his cheek to see if he truly was fast asleep, as if the loud snoring didn't convince her. Von followed Erica, proceeding to lick Aster's face for some reason. She explained that they became inseparable after Daphne brought him back from the ruined capital after the battle.

"Eh, he's just lazing around. He was probably happy to see you awake and took his chance to sleep since his sister's been hounding him nonstop," said Caden in a playful, mocking manner.

"Pardon us from the disturbance, Zach. I know that you seem fine and all now, but we're still tasked with taking care of you today."

"Still on with that formal tone, Dante? I'm glad to see that you haven't changed. I don't mind."

"Then how about you tell us how you beat that demon in the capital!" urged Caden in pure amazement and admiration. "It was really cool! They say that the light I saw was from you, was it really Are you really the Thalisean?"

"Yeah. I'm glad to know and see that you three haven't been treating me differently now that you know. But yes, I am the Thalisean, or that's what I believe I am to be, haha."

"So cool! Man, who knew that our teacher was the Thalisean! I read about people like you. They have those shiny light things that come out from nowhere, and they beat up demons! How great is that?"

"Caden's right," said Dante. "Having heard it myself, I couldn't quite believe it at first. Think of it. The chosen few who have the duty to save everyone. If you think about it realistically, there's isn't much of a chance that someone would be able to see them in personal, let alone talk to them like this. But, I'm glad to know that it's someone like you, Zach."

"So, what are you planning to do now? I heard from my mom that you'll have to go soon, right? After all, there are still a lot of them out there."

"I don't know yet, Caden. Right now, I'm still trying to think things through. Where do I go, what do I do? They're all vague, but it's all the same in the end."

"We'll go with you, all three of us! Maybe even Aster, too, if he ever wakes up," said Caden, pumping his fist into the air.

"Yeah! We're going to go with you," they pushed on.

"What are you talking about? You guys will just be too terrified. Don't worry about it. Leave it to me. It'll be more than enough for me thinking that I'm doing this to keep you safe."

I couldn't help but feel sadly solemn for myself. I'd damn myself if something terrible were to happen to them. If anything, I'd give my life to do anything to save them, as selfish as it might sound.

"What?" they said in disappointment. "C'mon! You already trained us. We're ready to go out and fight demons alongside you."

"He's right, Zach," pleaded Erica, sitting beside me. "You told me that you'd be there for me all the time, right? You saved me after all. I want to help you, too!"

"You three are courageous, and that's saying a lot already. For now, just keep at it. Listen, how about this. When the time is right, I'll come back here. And when you're strong enough, I'll let you come with me, as dangerous as it might seem. How about it, deal?"

They pondered on it until they came to a conclusion, agreeing with one another.

"Yeah, we'll become so strong that you won't have a choice but to bring us with you! Just you wait, I'll be the greatest knight this kingdom's ever seen!" announced Caden without doubt.

"I-I'll be doing my best as well," said Dante timidly.

"Don't break your promise, alright? We'll be strong, so be safe until then," said Erica, holding her pinky finger towards me.

I remember another instance like this. Ah, yes, when we made that promise back in Lavis. I could never forget that.

"I promise," I said, twining my pinky finger with hers.

Sighing in relief and complete harmony, I took my time to absorb everything I was seeing and stared at the beautiful clear blue sky. It had truly been a long time since I felt such calm in me.

I savored it for I knew that it wasn't long before I had to act once more.

Only days after I had rested and regained the energy to walk on my own did Gino tell me of what was happening outside, rather, I overheard it from him.

I arrived in a building where the temporary headquarters of the kingdom was located. It was a two-story house where stacks of papers towered over each other. Most of the personnel had gone to bed, leaving the two of us and a well-lit room to ourselves.

We sat across each other, enjoying a light meal as to catch up on things. I brought up the subject once more and allowed my curiosity to take over. 

"So you have heard, haven't you? Honestly, I was thinking of keeping this type of news away from you for a little while more since I know what you're going to do. It'd be better for you to stay here and follow us for a while. You have a kingdom backing you. Defeating the demons won't be as hard if you're going at it together than by yourself."

"I was bound to find out sooner or later. It's better if I know now than later, Gino. I think you understand why."

"Sadly, I do. Fine, I'll talk."

He shared with me of what was happening in Ylithia. How it had been split and torn amongst demons and the ones living on its soil.

Alrifian soldiers were being recalled, but they were also caught in the middle of a war between the two factions.

"Then you're telling me that the capital city had been taken over?"

"Not only that, but half of the kingdom already. As we know it, the kingdom of Ylithia is bound to fall. The number of demons that invaded them make the ones that attacked here seem petty. They are serious about wiping out one of the kingdoms. If they do, then the stability of the continent will be tipped on the scale. Soon the other kingdoms will be affected as well, not like they're not at the moment."

"It won't fall. Not while I'm breathing."

"Then you're saying that you're going to face them alone?"

"What other choice do I have? This has gone on long enough for them. I'm sure that they don't have anything left. The easiest way to end this is to go right into the thick of it. I'm going to take down whoever is leading them. And, I appreciate you telling me that this kingdom will aid me, but it'd just make me feel bad, you know? I was never the type to accept things like that with open arms."

I prepared to leave, firmly knowing what lies ahead. I know it's foolish to allow your emotions to take hold of you in times like these, but if I don't follow my own intentions, then I'm just less of a person.  This mark is apart from this, for it doesn't measure how much of a person I am, or that's how I see it at least.

"Don't be too hasty. You haven't even heard of who is leading them. If you leave now, you'll die, most likely. Not like I don't have faith in your abilities, but the gap is just too far for comfort. I'd be saving you the trouble of dying by telling you what you don't know now."

I returned to my seat and saw a troubled expression on Gino's face.

"Daphne's going to have my head for this, but I suppose I wouldn't want to betray your expectations, not as a Thalisean, but as a friend."

"Gino..."

"There's no need for you to follow tradition, Zach. It's not inherent, it's just pride taking over a being titled a 'divine'."

"What do you mean?"

"Every Thalisean to date, from every generation in the past has come to blows with the demon king. In every generation, the chosen one to save all of humanity ends up dying because they were alone and had no one to help them. You see, there was an entire race you people like you, Zach. But only a one was chosen each generation to lead the fight. Not everyone was given the strength that you possess. Some simply have the light in them and have no means to use it."

"Are you telling me that I'll end up the same way?"

"I'm merely stating the clear facts. You're already showing clear signs of being a reckless Thalisean, Zach. You might be human, but you've an inherent disease for being a hero it seems."

"That doesn't sound as bad."

"My definition of hero and yours are completely different. I see them as reckless suicidal maniacs. Their egos are as inflated as their duty to justice. I don't see it badly, but to keep at their duty to the point where they find the need to sacrifice themselves instead of returning alive with good news sickens me to the core."

"Gino, is there something bothering you about that? You seem restless about it."

"Oh, not at all. I was just rambling. Pay it no mind. It simply sings back to my past, but that's nothing to pry into. But more importantly, yes, about that information." He stood up and proceeded to shuffle through the mountain of paperwork stacked together in one corner of the room. He then took a rolled up paper and unfurled it, revealing the map of Ylithia, showing a portion of its border with Alrifer. It was marked meticulously, looking like a strategical map.

Along with the map were three pages worth of papers that he presented to me.

"Here is a file containing what we know about him, the one who led the attack on Ylithia, that is."

"Not a lot, I presume."

"Exactly. Read through it and you'll see what we know."

I did as he told and skimmed through the notes, being sure to be meticulous about every important detail.

His name was unknown. He looked to be a demi-human, but there was no solid evidence. His abilities are noted to be on an upper Ivaas' level, as noted. But the lack of further evidences blue the truth. Adept in sorcery and dabbles in arts vastly surpassing many prominent mages. Said to be an equal to the second seat of the mages council, only being a few points ahead of Albert Foster in terms ability and practicality. The specifics are categorized in forbidden magic, on the scale to decimate a city and level the earth with enough strength.

Only have been sighted thrice, thus the lack of information prevents further insight on his abilities and identity.

"Are these all of it?" I asked.

"Yes. You might not see it as much, but the lack of information should be enough to tell you that this one's dangerous. This record says that it's an upper Ivaas rank, but I'd say he's a Razhuen, one of the few that we've seen. We'd need something like an artifact, or someone possessing a special kind of power. We barely know any of that."

"Then what do you suggest?" I asked.

"If you're really adamant about going at this by yourself, then at least find someone else to drag along with you. I don't think you'll feel bad if they're at the most, as strong as you, or maybe stronger." He stood up once again and presented me three records, dusting them off beforehand as if he knew that he was going need it.

He continued. "Find them and see if they can help you out. I'm not too sure about the specifics, but all I know is on those records. I'd be happy if you'd be a little grateful since I'm just handing you off information from the royal Alrifian information vaults. I had them secured and ready just in case another travesty happened."

"How strong do you think they are?"

"Hmm," he pondered, lost in thought. "Beats me. Competent is the right word, but just because it's the only word suited to them. They don't make it a business being heroes. It's just that they were there at the wrong time. I'm sure they're either sick of their own lives, or something along those lines. In the off chance that you find even one of them and have them help you, then I'd say you may have a chance against the demon."

"Don't you have faith that I can handle him by myself?"

"I don't."

"Too blunt tonight, aren't we?"

"It's for your sake, so being blunt is being helpful. But it's going to be a gamble with these three. We have no proof whether this is credible, or if they still live, but you're against time here. The demons who invaded Ylithia still seek to take the entire kingdom. You have until then to seize victory. We only have records for these three for they are the ones we have the most information of, but as you can see, the said information can't really be called enough. I've done the initiative to put my own thoughts of them on a separate record. Here, keep this map close to you. It'll help with keeping track of things. I'm not sure whether this is enough though."

"Don't worry, it's enough for me. Thank you, Gino. With or without them, I'll manage. But I'll do my best to try and find them."

"Now I'm getting a bit guilty for sending the only living Thalisean to his death," he mumbled, taking a sip of his beverage.

"Haha, I think we've spent enough time traveling to know that I'm quite tenacious about my own goals. I won't stop at nothing until I make it happen."

"True enough. I just hope that your devotion doesn't change in time. But tell me, are you fine now? I recall you not being able to move half of your body a few days ago."

"I'm fine now, surprisingly. I've been training myself with the sword once more. I'm ready to keep going."

"You know, under normal circumstances, I wouldn't let you go with those wounds and scars that might open up any second. I'm surprised that you have the galls to move even with wound enough to drive a man crazy with pain."

"That just means I'm not your ordinary man. I'm as surprised as you are, but I'm grateful for it. I just won't be able to find the time to rest anymore, haha," I laughed wryly at my own predicament.

I took all that he presented me and motioned to the door, preparing to depart before dawn. But before I could reach for the knob, Gino stopped me with his words.

"Lastly, if you will. What drives you. I'm sure that it's simply not your duty. I don't think you're as superficial as they come. Tell me your reason for not cowering like most heroes, or disappearing, living your own life. Forgive me for this, but I just can't calm down. It might be an idiotic question, but this is important to me." He stared sternly, his body facing me. His fists were clenched, anticipating my answer. 

"I had made a promise with someone, then a broke it, but nearly tore myself apart with the decision. I failed her, and now she is in the midst of all that chaos. Then I made another, but this time, with someone whom I held dear to me. I had made promises to protect two people, and I don't intend to break them. I'll save them and perform my duty, that's all there is to it."

"Not the best of answers that you could have said, but it will suffice for now. I'm sure that we will meet each other again, Zach. Until then, stay safe. Will you say your farewell to the others?"

"Sadly, it'll just make it harder for me to leave. Daphne doesn't need to know, too. Well... for now that is. Give this to her a few days after I've gone my way. It's a letter meant for her. I'd be happy if you didn't read it."

"Then this is just a cruel good bye, is it? Erica especially had been looking forward to spending her time with you. You're her father now, after you saved her. Do you intend to leave her here?"

I mulled over it, but explained it to Erica as a joke. It was irresponsible, and I hated myself for every word that I said. You could have called it trickery, but as a joke, I asked whether she would be fine spending her time in Daphne's care, not as her sister, but someone like a mother figure to take care of her.

She didn't look fine with it, but there wasn't much of a choice. She was going to have to bear with it. It'll only pain me even more if she pushes herself to be with me during these hard times.

"Then if it pains you, Zach, then at least tell the three of them your farewell. They're children, so they will take this badly. I'm sure that you can disclose that much to them, right? It's just outright cruel to leave them just like that, twice now."

"I know, I know. But I just didn't want to worry them even more with me."

"They'll be worried sick regardless if you leave in the middle of the night to fight demons for the rest of your life. Grant them at least that amount of comfort, Zach. I'll assure that they won't spill the beans for now."

"Alright, Gino. I'll do it. Thank you, and see you until then."

"The same goes for you, Zach. We'll be waiting for your return."

We shook each others' hands firmly and laughed at the terrible circumstance that I was soon going into, leaving no doubts nor regrets between the two of us.

I gave up and realized how much of a fool I had been, deciding this alone. I agreed to Gino and went to the town governor's former residence to say my farewell. to them. It was excruciating, thinking of leaving them again. But it had to be done, no matter how painful it'll be for me.

"Now, no more lamenting, Zach." I motivated myself wryly, taking deep breaths.

I had spent time with Daphne in her time of visits that became frequent. We shared our time, thinking back on the fond things we've been through. Sure she was surrounded with work all the time, but she expected as much and was prepared for it.

Yet, even with her being the queen of her own kingdom, we shared laughs and smiles as if that didn't matter. She was still Daphne, and I was still Zach. There was no doubting the bond built between us as if felt so natural.

Through it all, I was going to leave once more after promising to never do it again. How despicable can I be? I don't deserve people like them, those that would consider still staying with someone who abandoned them even after he had done it the first time. Even as someone they considered their friend, he could not trust them to follow him for he feared what would happen to them. Those were my only doubts. It would hurt me much more if they got hurt than if I was the one to be harmed.

I know that she won't be able to forgive me for doing this again, but it's for the best. I still need to come to terms with this fact, but it'll take time. Though my resolve in this part was crumbling, I had to stay firm and resolute.

For the sake of others, I will have to go my own way to keep them safe. As selfish as that might seem, it's my way.

"Sorry, Daphne," I whispered in the air, talking to myself on the way. I hoped in my heart that she would be able to find it in her heart to forgive me even through my cowardice of writing it in a piece of paper.

I lightly knocked on the door of their room to see if they were awake, but then opening it after hearing no response.

They were fast asleep with Von sleeping right beside their beds.

I sat on the corner of Erica's bed and saw her comfortably dreaming it seemed. There was a smile on her face that felt so solemn.

I ran my fingers through her hair and stared out the window, revealing a beautiful night with a curtain of stars.

"Hey, Erica. I'm glad to see that you're doing fine. You see, I'm about to leave soon. I was conflicted about leaving without saying anything to you guys, but now here I am. As foolish as it may be, I'll be leaving you once more, this time for a cause that'll keep you safe. You know what I am now, and I hope that you'll understand that I have to go somewhere you can't be, somewhere dangerous. I'm really sorry, Erica." I combed back her hair covering her forehead and kissed it.

"I don't know if this is what a father would do, but I know that he wouldn't leave his children behind. Just goes to show how unfit I am, doesn't it?"

I stood up, only to find her hand latched on to mine. The corner of her eyes had tears, and she was awake, listening to every word that I had said.

She shook her head sideways and pulled my hand as hard as she could.

"Don't leave..." she sobbed. "Please."

"She's right! You can't leave!" said Caden, bursting out from his covers, kicking them aside, as opposed to Dante, who gently pushed them away and sat on the corner of his bed.

"No, Caden. I think it'd be immature of us to stop him. After all, everyone in this continent is depending on him now. We can't be selfish and have him for ourselves. As much as it pains me as well, I'll simply thank you for training us, Zachary. I'll use those skills you taught me to be an upstanding man, enough to meet your expectations. When that time comes, you won't be able to deny our aid."

"The same goes for me!" followed Caden. "I'll be strong, you'll see. Then, then, when I get stronger, you'll be proud of me!" he said, pointing a finger at me with a quivering lip, speaking in a loud, confident tone. "Thank you for saving us! For helping us, and being there for us! I won't ever forget that, Zach! So don't you even die, got that? We'll get there some day, you can count on that!"

"Yeah, I won't," I assured him, giving him a smile to ease his worries.

I turned to Erica.

"I assume that you'll be just like them?" I said jokingly.

She shook her head up and down, not speaking as to prevent herself from crying any further. "When I grow older, I'll be the one keeping you safe, so please, come back, will you?"

"I promise, just like back then, under that tree. I'll keep my promise, I swear to you three, no matter what."

Thus, a part of the weight binding me had been lifted. There was more to it than that, but it was all that I could muster. I would have to make it up to the rest somehow, but delaying things further to think is something that I can't do right now.

Soon, I will return and make amends. It seems that I still lack the courage to truly face them, but is doing it for a good cause considered 'for the best'?

Having done all I can here, I made preparations and took my belongings, heading out to the road to begin my quest anew, and on the way to Ylithia where things were said to have been stirred in chaos.

It was bittersweet, how things were looking up for me.

I kept my silence and left in the middle of the night, having procured a mount to take on my journey.

"Are you sure that this is a wise choice, master Erinn?" said Albert as he appeared near the stables, waiting for me it had seemed.

"It's the destiny I now follow. Well, for now I'm just going along with my own selfish wants, but soon I won't be able to do anything warranting selfishness. It'll be for the sake of those around me. Will you keep silent about this, Sir Foster?"

"If it will satisfy you, then very well. It is a shame. I had wanted to study you and your light, but that will have to wait for another time. Go, many are expecting your arrival... But before that, answer me this. Do you act upon your own will, or do you allow the mark and your duty to it lead you?"

"Hmm, well, I don't think it matters," he said, waving away his own question before I could answer. "You are the master of your own destiny. Simply don't forget that you are not alone. That is a most foolish thought for one who has to bear the weight of an entire generation on his back." He left, not saying another word.

"Thank you, Sir Foster. I'll keep that in mind."

I had left Aster and the others with a note as to not drag them into this mess any longer. I know it's an idiotic thing to do since I'm sure he would have opposed to this, saying things like "We've already fought through much, you and I. I don't think letting you go alone is something that friends who've fought together should do."

Armed with this light to guide me and my father's sword, I departed alone, not knowing what else awaits me...

"Lorelei, Louise, please wait for me. I'll be sure to save you no both no matter what."