New chapter of Nameless Hero is out! (1/1 chapter)
Epilogue: Farewell
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In the depths of the Lucur Great Forest.
The leaves of the towering trees, thick and lush, rustled. The wind howled through the forest, as if celebrating its tranquility. Nearby, the sound of a babbling brook could also be heard.
…It is peaceful. Such a clear and refreshing peace may only exist in this one place in the world.
I leaned against the trunk of a large tree, waiting for a certain person. To pass the time, I flicked the circular blade (chakram) with my finger. It spun rapidly in the air and eventually began to descend slowly. The once gigantic silver ring had now shrunk down to the size of a coin. I absentmindedly watched that scene. The three overlapping rings spun, creating a sphere through their centrifugal motion. However, within that sphere, there was no longer a trace of the dark red mana.
“Rhizomata Volga seems to have lost its power.” (Sylphid)
Sylphid-sama said after that battle.
My sword, imbued with anti-mana, had nullified its original energy.
So, it was handed to me lightly as a token, but… even if it has lost its power, I can’t help but wonder if it’s really okay to just hand over such a weapon that was feared so much. If I think of it as something dangerous being forced onto me, it makes sense, but given Sylphid-sama’s personality, that probably isn’t her intention.
Well, since it has lost its function, it shouldn’t be easy to revive. Even if it were to regain its power, I could just nullify it with my own strength. I’ll gladly accept it as a trophy from our victory here.
After a while, a half-elf girl appeared from behind the large tree.
“Lost-san… it’s… it’s over… it’s over!” (Shia)
“Welcome back, Shia.” (Jack)
“Yes, I’m home.” (Shia)
A month had passed since that battle, and signs of calm were beginning to show in Azarigrad and the Lucur Great Forest. During this time, there was a change in Shia Randal. It wasn’t because I told her to do so, but she had stopped using formal language with me.
Moreover, it felt forced. Because it felt forced, her manner of speaking was unnatural. She must be trying to get closer to me. That itself made me happy, so I decided to accept it without teasing her.
Today, the reason we came here was, in a sense, a farewell greeting. I took another look at that altar. The old altar that housed the Aerial Volga. That altar also resembled a gravestone for Shia’s parents. They had fought here, were defeated, and their remains were buried beneath this altar. So, for Shia, coming here was like visiting a grave. If they could sleep in such a clear space, they would surely be at peace.
And with that, I decided to return the Aerial Volga to the altar where it rightfully belonged, as well as say goodbye to her parents. I had also been saved many times by the Aerial Volga.
An infallible bow that continues to track its target with the power of wind. Compared to other Volga series, it had one of the strongest abilities. The creator herself, Sylphid-sama, had been troubled by how many mages sought to steal that ability. But such a bow with such power, we couldn’t just keep it indefinitely. So, we asked Lady Sylphid to return the bow, and now here we were, both of us placing it at the altar.
With the horrors of the Volga series now well-known and the source of all evil, the Rhizomata Volga, gone, it seemed that other Volga series would be protected by the spirits. Thus, those who sought the power of the Volga would likely decrease compared to before.
The fighting was over…
“Then, shall we head back to town?” (Jack)
“Yes.” (Shia)
Her reply still carried formalities.
I walked side by side with Shia, leaving the altar behind.
For Shia, it would be a while before she could see her parents again…
Knowing that I would be leaving this continent, Shia decided to come with me. I had heard her determined words right before she fired the last “infallible arrow”.
—Let’s support each other’s shortcomings as monsters.
In other words, it meant that she would support me wherever I went from now on.
Could that be seen as her way of confessing? Is it okay to interpret it that way? If so, then as partners, I wouldn’t be criticized for behaving accordingly… which means I could develop a deeper relationship with Shia…?
—
We walked along the main street of the town.
The many buildings that had been ravaged by monster attacks and the heaps of rubble lined the road. It felt like they had prioritized just paving the road and had somehow managed to get that done first.
Further ahead was supposed to be the headquarters of the Adventurers Guild, a symbol of the labyrinth city, but now it was nowhere to be found. All that remained were the ruined overpass and the rubble-filled remains of the Azalea Castle, along with the large hole in the center.
Neither Shia nor I had the desire to cross the overpass, instead staring blankly at the scars of battle that remained. The fierce battles we had fought now felt like someone else’s story.
“I guess I won’t be coming here for a while…” (Jack)
I muttered, not really directed at anyone.
The dungeon that had taken care of me for four or five years. I had plenty of fun there without getting bored. Looking down at the bottomless darkness spreading beneath the cliff and the large hole at the center of the Azalea Castle ruins, it seemed safe to say that the labyrinth was no more. The source of mana, the power of the Volga, was gone, and thinking that I could never explore that labyrinth again made me feel somewhat lonely.
Actually, after that, we found Anfan’s body in this ruin. Due to merging with Emped, the lower half was gruesome, but the upper half had miraculously remained intact. We decided to inform the family, and I told Yustin. He had been in a terrible state for a while after seeing his father’s gruesome form, but he overcame it in two or three weeks. Now, he was preserving the body in ice magic by himself.
It was impressive that he could overcome such a critical moment like that, he was a man after all. Anfan’s body would be taken back to his home and buried with his family. For Yustin, who had often been arrogant or cowardly, it was quite remarkable. He had grown during his time here, just like me.
The main branch of the Schwarzchild Household was said to be located in the Rauda Continent, so he would also be crossing the continent at the same time as me. By the way, the two members of the magic guild led by Anfan, Lizbeth and Gina, had been dismissed by Anfan, but they were first going to report the facts to the headquarters of the magic guild. So, they were crossing to the continent ahead of us.
Well, considering the tragedy that had unfolded in Azarigrad, the blame lay with Anfan. Their dismissal would likely be nullified. Anfan might have acted recklessly, thinking that if he had the Rhizomata Volga, he could alter the facts of what happened.
The dead tell no tales… The true intentions of the person remained in the dark until the end…
Lizbeth was someone I had hoped to speak with properly, but it was unfortunate that she seemed busy. However, as long as we were alive, we would likely meet somewhere again.
—
Just as Shia and I were basking in our sentimentality.
“Hey, you two!” (Argos)
A voice called from behind, and I turned around.
“Oh, it’s you, Argos-san.” (Lost)
There stood the unsociable giant from the village of giants, Gigant Village, quietly standing there.
When he stood in front of Shia, the height difference made the difference in our races very apparent. Argos-san still had his long black hair braided behind him. I felt that the scars on his face had increased slightly. Though the giants tended to stay secluded in their village, they felt a debt of gratitude towards me and Yustin, and had come to help with the reconstruction of Azarigrad. Having those strong giants help with the debris removal was quite effective.
“…This… please, deliver it.” (Argos)
He had been helping in the town for a while now, but it seemed his speech hadn’t improved. However, seeing what he offered me, I understood his feelings.
“Oh, this is!” (Jack)
He carefully presented the object… it was a single rose made of ice. A hair ornament made in the motif of the magic item “Cold Sculpt”, not that it actually was, but it was similar. Since Shia had sold her house to part ways with this town, I figured a hair ornament would be better than a stationary magic tool, so I had secretly asked Argos-san to help.
“Lost, a gift… for the elf.” (Argos)
“…For me?” (Shia)
I had wanted to give a present to Shia since visiting the Neve Snowfields, but it had taken longer than expected. However, this exquisitely crafted white hair ornament would surely suit her.
Shia received the ice hair ornament from Argos-san and immediately put it in her flowing blue hair. I had informed him about her race beforehand, so it was made small enough to fit her delicate face. The white sculpture shining against her blue hair was like melting ice floes.
As expected. My aim was not mistaken. Shia’s angelic charm was increased tremendously.
It is truly a feast for the eyes!
“Thank you very much!” (Shia)
“No, thank you!” (Argos)
He seemed to have a habit of offering gifts to the person he was infatuated with.
—
The day had come to leave the town.
The people I had been indebted to in Azarigrad had come to see us off. We would bid farewell near the town’s exit. The Stride Household had borrowed a large carriage to take us to the port where the ship to the Rauda Continent was departing. The group crossing to the continent was quite large.
Me, the Stride Household, Shia, Yustin… and Anfan as well.
“…It’s going to be lonely without Lost.” (Taurus)
“What are you saying, Taurus? You’re leaving with Alba-san, right?” (Jack)
Taurus was still using crutches. He had sustained severe injuries in the battle at the castle and had not yet fully recovered. No matter how many healing spells were cast, there were limits.
In response to my teasing words, it was Alba-san standing next to him who blushed.
“Hmph! The foolish Taurus must become stronger. I thought that traveling with me, who aims to be the strongest, might help him improve a little!” (Alba)
It was a typical excuse from Alba-san, who was innocent when it came to romantic matters.
“All I need is Alba-san’s breasts nearby, and that’s enough for me.” (Taurus)
Taurus made another tactless remark and wrapped his arm around Alba-san’s shoulder.
However, Alba-san immediately kicked him away. It was an unreserved strike against an injured person who was still not fully recovered. But this was also part of the routine. Taurus himself was probably just trying to cover his embarrassment with shameless words. His mental age seemed to remain that of a child.
“Let me also express my gratitude.” (Sylphid)
Suddenly floating into view was Sylphid-sama. It seemed she had regained some of her spirit power in the Lucur Great Forest, as she had grown a little. Now, she looked like a girl of about 12 or 13 years old. It was somewhat frustrating to see a girl grow up in such a short time.
“Lost, Shia Randall… I don’t know how to thank you two… The difficulties you have faced due to us spirits’ lack of power is truly regrettable.” (Sylphid)
Lady Sylphid lowered her head deeply.
“No, please raise your head. That was… my responsibility as well.” (Jack)
I had unwittingly assisted Anfan. If I had recognized the horror of the Volga’s power earlier and thought something was off from the beginning, such a situation might not have come to pass.
“Now that the Rhizomata Volga is gone, our burden has become a bit lighter. I am truly grateful.” (Sylphid)
“This, right? Is it really okay for me to have it?” (Lost)
“Yes, it’s just a piece of silver craftsmanship now.” (Sylphid)
I wore the small chakram as a necklace.
…Then, I could rest easy. With that assurance, I could keep it as a memento.
“Then please be careful. May the blessings of the God be upon your future journeys.” (Sylphid)
When a spirit offered a prayer, it truly felt like one could receive that blessing.
Well, I suppose God is indeed concerned about Kea.
“Yes, may you also stay well, Sylphid-sama. Thank you for everything.” (Jack)
Just as I expressed my gratitude, Sylphid-sama suddenly looked around in surprise.
“…Speaking of which, Gnome is not here.” (Sylphid)
“Oh, now that you mention it. But well, I don’t care about Salamand…” (Jack)
Gnome-sama had a strange sense of time.
Although I had informed her of the departure date, I wondered if she had forgotten?
It was rather disappointing, considering she was the spirit I had been most indebted to. However, going back now to say goodbye would be unfair to the horses waiting on the carriage.
“I’ll convey it to Gnome.” (Sylphid)
“Yes, please do.” (Jack)
There was no choice. Well, this wasn’t a final farewell. I intended to return to this land eventually, and I would visit her then. She would probably scold me, saying, “Didn’t we just meet the other day?”, but that would mean she would welcome me even after some time had passed, allowing me to visit casually.
“Wait…! Jack, you’re late!! And more—” (Irene)
A loud voice came from the direction of the stopped carriage.
Needless to say, it was Irene’s voice, and that voice was getting closer.
“Y…You’re getting too close!!” (Irene)
Then, she pushed Shia and me aside and squeezed between us, her face looking very angry. It seemed she was still annoyed with how close Shia and I were.
“I feel like you two are getting closer lately! Seriously, he’s MY Jack, so don’t be so presumptuous!” (Irene)
“Excuse me!” (Shia)
Shia seemed relaxed as she distanced herself from me. That attitude only caused Irene to react even more sensitively.
“What’s with that reaction?! I can’t stand how smug you look!” (Irene)
I wondered what it would take for this lady to be satisfied.
—
And so, we boarded the carriage and at last departed from the labyrinth city that I had grown so familiar with. As the view of the town gradually receded from sight through the gaps in the canopy, I felt a wave of nostalgia. I had arrived in this town at the age of 11, and now I was over 15. It had been a very fulfilling place to spend my adolescence.
A town filled with countless memories, Azarigrad. It might be that a rough town like this wouldn’t have a proper record. Now, both the residents and adventurers were busy tidying up the town. But our battles would surely be etched in the history of these people.
“It won’t be a labyrinth city anymore. There’s no underground labyrinth left…” (Jack)
“After causing such chaos, it can’t be helped. But the fighting in this battle will help with the next renovations!” (Gnome)
“Eh… you’re still planning on renovating…?” (Jack)
I turned around and was met with the sight of a short girl with crimson hair, wearing black goggles.
Out of nowhere, she had appeared, causing everyone riding in the carriage to freeze.
“Gnome-sama?!” (Jack)
“Yo!” (Gnome)
She waved one hand cheerfully in greeting.
“Yo? What are you doing here?!” (Jack)
“Why would I not come along with you guys?” (Gnome)
“Aren’t you supposed to fulfill your role as a spirit?” (Jack)
“No one cares about that anymore. Timaeos never showed up in the end, did he?” (Gnome)
Timaeos was supposedly the sage of lightning. Indeed, he hadn’t appeared until the very end. I didn’t really know what he looked like.
“Besides, I told you, I still want to do renovations.” (Gnome)
“Oh, that’s right. You mentioned something ominous before we attacked the castle.” (Jack)
“Now that the city has no hunting grounds, there’s no demand for my magic tools. So, I’m moving my workplace.” (Gnome)
I see.
Eventually, Azarigrad would gradually change its functions. From an adventurer city to an ordinary commercial town, or perhaps a historical tourist spot.
I didn’t know what the town would become, but it was clear that Gnome-sama’s combat magical tools would no longer be needed. Thus, as a blacksmith, she would make her living elsewhere.
“Wait a minute… could it be that this pattern is…?” (Jack)
I suddenly looked at Shia’s shoulder.
There, a red lizard was sitting casually.
“Yo.” (Salamander)
“Yo… isn’t that too casual? You too?” (Jack)
“The feeling of Shia’s shoulder is just too nice.” (Salamander)
“On such a small shoulder?” (Jack)
“This silky-smooth hair on my back… it feels like I’m being petted…” (Salamander)
Somehow, the way she said that made it felt like she was trampling on Shia’s hair, which made me angry. Realizing my fierce gaze, Salamander waved both hands in a defensive manner.
“Wait, no, that’s not it… My real purpose is the Volcanic Volga.” (Salamander)
Ah, right.
I was planning to go meet Alfred. There was a real Volcanic Volga there. I didn’t know the details of the connection between Salamander and Alfred, but it seemed that sticking with us was convenient for Salamander. I never expected that two of the five great spirits of the Riverda Continent would be following along.
Thus, I, Shia, and our pets, along with Yustin and his father’s body, along with the noble group, would cross the continent, sometimes lost in sentimentality, and sometimes engaging in small squabbles. …Once we arrive there, I have various things I want to do.
I’ll go meet Alfred and Lindsay. I’ll visit the Aldridge mansion, my blood relatives for the first time. And, Goddess Kea… where is she, I wonder?
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