"Prince Yoshi and the royal witch Lyra! It is an honor to have your presence grace our humble city," said the city lord, bowing respectfully. "Perhaps we could continue this discussion at the council hall?"
Yoshi and his companions nodded in agreement, and they were promptly escorted to the grand council hall. Inside, the group sat at a long, intricately carved table surrounded by the city’s leaders. Once everyone was settled, Yoshi handed the relic of will to the city lord, who accepted it with gratitude before summoning a female knight to safeguard it.
"Allow me to introduce someone of great importance to our city," the city lord said, gesturing to the knight who stood tall and resolute by his side. "This is Eri Mika, Knight Huntress, rank C (Tier 9), and leader of the esteemed warriors of Tsu. She has proven herself time and again, not just through her bravery but through her unyielding leadership during the darkest of times. She stood by my side when others faltered, and her courage has been instrumental in our survival."
Eri Mika stepped forward, her sharp gaze scanning Yoshi and his companions as she gave a formal bow. "It is an honor to meet you," she said, her tone firm yet respectful.
With introductions complete, the city lord turned his attention to recounting the events that had led to their current predicament.
"The sudden attack of monsters took us by surprise," he began gravely. "At first, the relic of will gave us the strength to endure their assault, bending the hoard to our will and allowing us to push them back."
His tone darkened as he continued. "But our advantage was short-lived. A traitor—someone from within our own ranks—managed to steal the relic and hand it over to the monsters. We still do not know the identity of the betrayer, but their actions brought ruin upon us."
The council hall fell silent, the weight of the revelation hanging in the air.
"The monsters, having secured the relic, turned it into a weapon against us," the city lord said. "Yet, even among themselves, their thirst for power drove them to chaos. They began fighting one another for sole possession of the relic. This internal strife drew the attention of other supernatural forces, escalating the conflict into an all-out war."
The city lord clenched his fists. "My city was caught in the crossfire. If the monsters and supernaturals were allowed to wage their war here, countless innocents would perish. With no other choice and the relic out of our reach, I turned to an alternative."
The city lord paused, his eyes meeting Yoshi’s. "And that alternative, I fear, may now bring its own set of consequences."
"I prayed desperately to the divine realm for aid," the city lord began, his voice heavy with regret. "I didn’t know how long it would take for help to come from elsewhere. Fortunately, my prayers were answered. The gods themselves descended and vanquished the monsters and supernaturals that plagued us. However, their aid came with a price. Once the battle was won, the gods declared that they would rule over us, claiming it was for our own good."
The room grew tense as the city lord continued. "Their rule was absolute. They ensured our city was without blemish, punishing even unconscious transgressions against their commandments. At their command, we built thrones to honor them, attended to their every need, and worshiped them as they demanded—with both fear and love. Their presence was suffocating; they perceived even the faintest rebellious thought, making resistance unthinkable."
His expression darkened. "They took the relic of will into their custody, deeming it too dangerous for mortals to wield. They gave us strict commandments that we dared not defy. Though they never caused harm that would lead to our deaths, their rule weighed heavily on my people. We lived in fear, unable to speak freely, longing for the days when we had our autonomy."
The city lord’s voice faltered for a moment. "Our city became a fortress against evil; no monsters dared approach with the gods dwelling among us. Yet, within our hearts, we yearned for freedom. We prayed for a miracle to release us from their rule so we could return to the ways of old. But I have learned a bitter truth—one must be careful what they wish for. In my desperation, I invited the gods to do as they pleased. If only I had been patient enough for your coming, Prince Yoshi."
Yoshi placed a reassuring hand on the table, his voice calm and understanding. "I understand your decision. You did what was necessary to save your people in a moment of despair when all hope seemed lost. But the gods did leave a warning before their departure."
The city lord's eyes sharpened with curiosity. "What warning?" he asked.
"They spoke of an impending evil that awaits your city," Yoshi replied.
The city lord frowned. "An evil? Did they offer any specifics?"
"They did not," Yoshi admitted. "But it would be wise to remain vigilant and investigate for any anomalies. This forewarning should not be taken lightly."
The city lord nodded solemnly. "If the gods themselves have foreseen this threat, we cannot afford to ignore it. I will order every warrior in the city to patrol diligently and double our defenses. With the relic of will back in our possession, we will be ready to face whatever comes."
Turning to Yoshi and his companions, the city lord bowed deeply. "Once again, we owe you a debt of gratitude. Your actions have given us hope. Please, accept our hospitality and stay in our city as our honored guests."
He hesitated before adding, "If I may, my prince, I humbly request that you remain in our city for a short while longer. Though you have other regions to aid, I ask that you stay at least a day or two, until the gods' warning has passed. Their wisdom cannot be ignored, and your presence gives us strength."
Yoshi glanced at Lyra, who nodded slightly in agreement. "Very well," he said. "We will stay for a time to ensure your city’s safety."
Days passed, then a week, yet nothing out of the ordinary occurred. The city of Tsu seemed calm, its people resuming their lives under the protection of the relic of will. Yoshi and his companions remained watchful, yet the impending evil foretold by the gods remained elusive.
The next morning, Yoshi and his companions made their way to the council hall to bid farewell to the city lord. Standing among the council members, the city lord expressed his heartfelt gratitude.
"Once again, I thank you for your aid," he said, bowing slightly. "Perhaps the forewarning of the gods was only a metaphor, not meant to be taken literally. Regardless, your presence has brought us peace of mind."
He gestured, and several attendants stepped forward bearing finely crafted gifts. "Please accept this token of our gratitude. It is a small offering from the city of Tsu to aid you on your journey."
Lyra raised her hand and snapped her fingers, effortlessly storing the gifts into her pocket dimension. "Thank you for your generosity," she said, her tone respectful but measured.
The city lord smiled. "It has been an honor hosting you. May your path be clear, and your strength unwavering."
With that, Yoshi and his companions left the council hall, the city lord and council bidding them farewell. They continued their journey toward the city of Nagano, a place once renowned for housing the legendary Treasure of Resurrection.
Meanwhile, Back in the City of Tsu
The relic of will, now securely stored in a fortified chamber and guarded by elite warriors, seemed untouchable. However, Eri Mika, the trusted leader of the city's warriors, entered the chamber with authority. The guards, loyal to her without question, complied as she dismissed them from their posts.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Once alone, she stepped toward the relic. The golden artifact pulsed faintly, radiating its immense power. Eri Mika reached out and grasped it, her eyes glowing as the relic's energy coursed through her body. She raised the relic high, and its power erupted in a wave that swept across the city.
The entire population froze as their free will dissolved, their minds overwritten with unwavering loyalty to Eri Mika. The city lord, council members, warriors, and citizens all bowed before her, their faces devoid of emotion. Sitting on the city lord's throne, Eri Mika gazed down at her newfound subjects with cold determination.
Her aura flared, and she summoned the astral form of Ryujin, a commanding and ancient figure shrouded in draconic majesty.
Ryujin's spectral form emerged, towering and regal. "Eri Mika," he said, his voice resonating with a deep, otherworldly power. "I see you have succeeded."
"My lord, I apologize for my failure to prevent the gods from departing. They left after Yoshi and his companions intervened," Eri Mika admitted, lowering her head in deference.
Ryujin chuckled darkly. "No matter. Their absence serves our purpose well enough. The relic of will is in your possession, and that is what matters. Now, bring it to me and erase any evidence of your actions."
"Yes, my lord," she replied.
Ryujin's astral form began to dissipate, but his parting words echoed ominously. "The time is near. The conquest begins soon. Do not falter."
As his presence faded, Eri Mika turned her attention back to the relic. With a single gesture, her aura expanded once more, erasing the memories of everyone in the city. They awoke moments later, confused but none the wiser.
The relic of will was gone, and so was any trace of its existence. The city lord and his council members could not recall ever possessing it, and the warriors were left wondering why they had stood guard at an empty chamber.
The city of Tsu, once a bastion of strength and divine significance, was now an ordinary city. Its people, unaware of their loss, returned to their lives, oblivious to the role they had played in a much greater scheme.
Far from Tsu, Eri Mika vanished into the shadows, the relic of will in her possession, as she prepared to deliver it to Ryujin.
***
It had been nine months and a few days since Yoshi and his companions embarked on their journey to aid neighboring regions. Their mission was nearly complete, and the month also marked significant developments in the Fujimori Wisteria Forest Kingdom, spearheaded by Xiao Xiao and her council.
Using the XPT-Xentrocurnia Prime Tech Orb, the kingdom had undergone remarkable transformations in just a few months. Although it could not yet rival the resources and advancements of larger kingdoms and empires, it had made tremendous strides. What was once a land mired in limitations now stood with newfound resilience, its progress a beacon of hope and change.
The kingdom had established its own satellite system, revolutionized transportation with innovative train stations and vehicles, and developed multiple power grids. These advancements extended to robotics and mechanical battle suits enhanced by a harmonious blend of magic and science—though all were carefully managed to conserve resources.
Xiao Xiao’s deep understanding of the XPT proved invaluable. Her bond with the artifact had grown to surpass even Joseph’s unique connection, making her the primary and most resourceful user of the technology. Under her guidance, the kingdom flourished, standing as a testament to what determination and ingenuity could achieve even under constrained circumstances.
***
One day, while Xiao Xiao was engrossed in her work, an urgent commotion broke out in the palace kitchens. Yukio, a young maiden, had been cooking with her fellow attendants when she suddenly threw up in the restroom. She returned to her task but froze as a sharp pain surged through her, followed by the unmistakable sensation of her water breaking.
The frying pan she held clattered to the floor as she let out a startled scream. Her companions rushed to her side, and the head of the maidens quickly took charge, directing them to assist Yukio to the labor room.
Word of Yukio’s sudden labor reached the high council and Prince Yoshito, who immediately left their duties to check on her. By the time they arrived, Yukio had safely delivered her child.
As Prince Yoshito and Xiao Xiao entered the labor room, they were surprised to find a diverse and unexpected assembly of individuals:
Shamans, spiritual healers deeply connected to mystical traditions, performing rituals and administering herbal remedies.
Thaumaturges, practitioners of miraculous feats and magical wonders, standing in solemn concentration.
Theurgists, who wielded divine magic through the aid of benevolent spirits, both human and supernatural.
Archmages and witches, their presence emanating raw arcane power.
The presence of these extraordinary figures puzzled Prince Yoshito and Xiao Xiao. They soon learned that it was the doctor who had summoned this unique gathering. The reason for this became clear when the doctor, visibly awed, shared the astonishing news.
The doctor explained that Yukio’s child was no ordinary newborn. Born under rare and mystical circumstances, the child exhibited signs of divine and magical potential even at birth. This revelation had drawn the magical practitioners, who sensed the child’s latent power and its potential significance to the kingdom’s future.
Prince Yoshito and Xiao Xiao exchanged astonished glances, realizing that this child could become a key figure in the kingdom’s destiny. The shaman offered blessings, while the thaumaturges and theurgists began preparing protective wards.
The room buzzed with energy and reverence, as Yukio, though exhausted, held her child close, tears of joy and awe in her eyes. Xiao Xiao stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on Yukio’s shoulder.
“This child is a gift,” Xiao Xiao said softly, her voice laced with admiration. “And perhaps a sign that our kingdom’s path is truly aligned with something greater.”
Prince Yoshito nodded in agreement, vowing silently to ensure that the child’s extraordinary potential would be nurtured for the good of the Fujimori Wisteria Forest Kingdom.
During the joyous moment of Yukio’s successful delivery, a shocking revelation left everyone in the labor room stunned. The doctor had summoned the extraordinary gathering of shamans, thaumaturges, theurgists, archmages, and witches not only because Yukio’s labor was unusual but also due to the overwhelming and threatening aura emitted by the newborn.
The intensity of this aura had startled the medical team, making it impossible for them to work unaided. Even before the doctor could summon help, many in the gathering had already sensed the disturbance and arrived of their own accord. The collective efforts of everyone in the room—utilizing magic, spiritual rituals, and divine interventions—were required to suppress the aura, which had threatened to destabilize their surroundings.
After a prolonged and grueling struggle, they managed to suppress the child’s immense energy, leaving the room in awe. The doctor, visibly shaken yet composed, described the aura as eerily similar to that of Joseph when he had first arrived in the kingdom.
“Are you saying this child belongs to Joseph?” Xiao Xiao asked, her voice steady despite her inner turmoil.
The doctors nodded, confirming the similarities they had observed. However, they admitted that while Yukio had revealed Joseph’s name as the father before falling unconscious, they couldn’t conclusively verify it. Every attempt to obtain a blood sample from the child had failed—the infant’s skin was entirely impenetrable to both needles and magic.
“The child is miraculous in every way,” the doctor said, his tone a mix of wonder and apprehension. “Her birth defied all norms. She emerged cleansed, without the usual vernix caseosa, amniotic fluid, or blood that typically accompanies childbirth. I’ve never seen anything like it in my years of medical practice.”
Xiao Xiao stepped forward, her expression unreadable, and used the Xentrocurnia Prime Tech Orb to scan the child’s DNA. The orb hummed with energy, instantly revealing the truth: the child was unequivocally the daughter of Joseph and Yukio.
“Oh, Joseph... What have you done?” Yoshito whispered, his voice tinged with disbelief.
When Xiao Xiao shared the results with the group, the room fell into stunned silence. The implications of this revelation weighed heavily on everyone.
Prince Yoshito cast a protective spell, gently putting the exhausted Yukio to sleep. His gaze darkened with concern as he turned to the gathering.
“If this child truly possesses Joseph’s bloodline, then her potential power is undeniable. She must be carefully monitored and guided. If left unchecked, she could unknowingly wreak havoc,” he said gravely.
One of the shamans stepped forward, his voice calm and assured. “She is indeed a child destined for greatness. The spirits have spoken. Her aura, while immense, holds no malevolence. Her future is one of light, not darkness.”
Theurgists and thaumaturges nodded in agreement, adding their observations of the child’s benevolent essence.
Xiao Xiao, however, voiced a critical perspective. “While her aura may not feel threatening, we cannot take risks. This is a matter of responsibility. To ensure her potential is nurtured in the right direction, she needs a strong motherly bond. She must learn compassion, discipline, and the balance between power and humility. Without this, we risk history repeating itself.”
Her words struck a chord with Yoshito. He nodded. “Very well. We will ensure she is raised with care, guided by wisdom, and trained to wield her abilities responsibly. Preparations must be made to secure her future—and ours.”
The group dispersed to make the necessary arrangements, leaving the child to rest peacefully in her crib, her overwhelming aura now dormant.
Meanwhile, after months of travel and countless obstacles, Yoshi and his companions finally reached the city of Nagano. The group was greeted warmly by the people, their arrival met with cheers and celebration. Standing at the forefront of the welcoming party was the city’s esteemed ruler, Lady Nagano, whose serene demeanor masked the burden of leadership she carried.
With their journey nearing its climax, Yoshi and his team were ready to uncover the secrets of the Treasure of Resurrection, unaware of the monumental changes unfolding back in the Fujimori Wisteria Forest Kingdom.