Chapter 3: Encounter
PHON'KAVEN is a multiracial empire with a large Human population and unique customs. It's uncertain when the empire was established, but it has the second-largest territory among the nations scattered about Idoragya's southern landmass, commonly known as the Dark Continent.
Their civilization level is about one whole step behind the empires on the northern landmass, putting them at the rudimentary empire-management level of just starting to produce iron products. One of their distinguishing features is their worship of indigenous Ancestral Spirits, which is not to be confused with the Elementals worshipped by the Elves.
Phon'kaven worships the Spirits belonging to all things in nature, such as animals, insects, trees, plants, rocks, and even the very earth beneath their feet. They also practice divination using bones and animal skins.
Although their civilization level was behind the times,
Phon'kaven enjoyed gradual prosperity without any conflicts despite the fact it was a multiracial empire, probably because of the idyllic atmosphere that spread throughout their territory. Until now…
"Hill Giant! A Hill Giant has appeared!"
Crescent Moon, Phon'kaven's capital, suffered substantial damage from daily Demi-human attacks. They had lived so long without knowing war. While they possessed a certain level of strength, their lack of experience kept them from being strong.
Their weapons were also crudely put together at the last second.
The outer walls were made of mud with little thought going into keeping out possible invasions, and the inner city consisted of groups of fragile buildings constructed from clay and dried grass.
They were up against Demi-human races that were hostile to all civilizations, commonly known as Barbarians. Goblins, Orcs, Kobolds, and even rare and dangerous beings were attacking Crescent Moon, threatening their right to life.
Today's raider was the most dangerous of all—a Hill Giant.
"Somebody tell the Staff Holders that another Hill Giant has appeared!"
"Send in the Archers! Don't let the Hill Giant into the city!"
These Demi-humans, tall enough to tower over Crescent Moon's houses, were ginormous humanoid monsters called Hill Giants. They had smooth, eerily inhuman-looking skin, a body of pure muscle, bloodshot, enraged eyes, and razor-sharp fangs jutting from their mouths.
Where they lacked in intelligence, they easily made up with superhuman strength. An inexperienced soldier would instantly turn into a lump of meat if struck by a Hill Giant's club.
Although not as strong as a Cyclops, considered the most powerful Giant subspecies, Hill Giants were still a force to be reckoned with.
Why did a Hill Giant stray from its territory to raid a Human city when they usually only hung around remote areas?
Of course, no one had the answer to that question, and they were forced to fight whether they wanted to or not.
"Shit!" bitterly swore a Beastman who'd been put on earlymorning guard duty because of his heightened sense of smell. "The mud wall destroyed during the last attack hasn't been repaired yet! It's gonna charge right into the city!!"
The desperate volley of arrows from the Archers on the watchtower did nothing to stop the Hill Giant's forward march.
They were surprisingly close to the city.
It was difficult to predict where and when a Barbarian would attack even with the Beastmen's heightened senses because they appeared at random, which was why they struggled so hard to defend themselves.
A week had already passed since the last raid.
The mud walls destroyed by the three Hill Giants last time had yet to be repaired because of the sporadic Goblin attacks.
The Spearmen were bravely attacking to repel it, but the sheer size difference directly correlated to the difference in their strength. Dodging the Hill Giant's strikes was the best even a race proficient in physical combat could handle—stopping the monster in its tracks was beyond them.
The Hill Giant was headed straight for the gap left by the unrepaired mud wall and Crescent Moon's cityscape lying beyond it.
Just as everyone imagined the tragic future where the Hill Giant invaded the city through that gap and laid waste to their homes—
"Suck Grass Tendril Magic! How do you like that?!"
A young boy's voice rang out, followed by something sprouting out from underneath the Hill Giant's feet.
"GRUOOOOH"
"That's a Staff Holder's magic! He's here to help?!"
The Hill Giant started struggling against something until it couldn't move anymore. Then it fell face down on the ground as if it'd tripped. Victorious smiles spread across the Beastmen's faces as they saw countless tendrils of long grass spring up from the ground at the giant's feet and wrap around its humongous body like rope, holding it firmly in place.
"Be at ease, O brave Phon'kaven soldiers! Amazing stuff's about to go down now that I, one worthy of being a Staff Holder, is here!!"
"Oooh! Master Pepe!"
The boy, who appeared at the soldier's side from the gap in the mud wall, skipped his way over to the bound Hill Giant and hopped upon its back.
"Mwahahaha! Go me! I'm too awesome! Woohoo!"
The young boy's loud voice carried over the whole battlefield.
This boy wearing a robe that dragged on the ground, his shirt half-tucked into his shorts, was the Staff Holder the soldiers had been waiting for.
Shamans managed all religious rituals and performed Miracles in Phon'kaven. Staff Holders were the highest-ranked Shamans, making them the absolute authority and leaders.
All twelve of the Staff Holders were beloved by the Beast and Earth Spirits and could work Miracles using their powers. They possessed powerful magic they could unleash at will and always carried a staff with religious significance only they were allowed to wield.
The people called them Staff Holders out of respect and ardor.
Pepe was the youngest and most promising among their ranks. He was the first to rush to the aid of the struggling soldiers, brilliantly defeating the Hill Giant.
Morale skyrocketed among the soldiers with his inspiring victory and cry of triumph. Before long, enthusiastic cheers rose up from the crowd that had formed around Pepe, who was singing his own praises on top of the Hill Giant.
"Shaman! Shaman!"
"Yaaaaay! I can't hear you!"
Unfortunately, there was still an elephant in the room, so to speak. Every soldier had forgotten a critical piece of information— that all the other Staff Holders had dubbed the boy "Pepe the Fool."
"GRUOOOOOOOH!!!"
"GEEEEEEEEEEH!!"
"SHAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!!"
The Hill Giant, whose mobility had been sealed by the Grass Tendrils, tore off its restraints.
Pepe was bucked off its back. He was paying the price for cockily not delivering the finishing blow.
The Hill Giant's big, bloodshot eyes locked on to Pepe rolling backward on the ground, and it moved to squash the tiny boy underfoot.
That's when the true reinforcements finally arrived.
"Quagmire Magic!"
"GRAH? GRUOOOH…"
The timing was perfect.
The spell activated at the speed of light.
The second the Hill Giant brought its foot up, the quagmire that suddenly formed under its pivot leg caused it to once again taste the coldness of the hard ground.
"Grass Tendril Magic!"
It was further restrained by grass tendrils. The second Staff Holder wasn't so foolish as to let this chance to deal the death blow go to waste.
"What're you standing around for?! Now's your chance! Aim for the eyes!!"
"Y-Yes, sir!!"
"GYAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!"
It let out a single death cry.
The arrows and spears aimed at its weak point, the eyeball, undeniably pierced the ginormous monster's brain, bringing its life to an end.
The soldiers looked to the newly arrived Staff Holder, who briskly walked toward them, looking mighty displeased.
This person who had a reputation for being stern and unsparing on a daily basis was an old Beastwoman with a cow's head. She assessed the Hill Giant's state from a distance. Once she had a quickfooted, young soldier confirm it was indeed dead, she announced this raid was finally over and praised the soldiers for their hard work.
Although it goes without saying that it wasn't really the end for them, not with injured troops to treat and arrows to recover. There was a lot of other work to be done as well, such as disposing of the Hill Giant's massive corpse.
And the old woman with a cow's head, who was also the biggest contributor to this battle's success, had another important job only she could take on. That is to say, lecturing the foolish and impulsive young Staff Holder.
"UGYU!"
"What a sorry state you're in, Pepe! You're an embarrassment to your role!"
"Hmmm?! Oh! It's you, Granny Tonukapoli!"
It wasn't until Pepe's head was whacked by an old, natural wood staff that he finally realized he'd been knocked off the Hill Giant and lost consciousness from the blow he took.
His newly cleared vision was filled with the sight of his fellow Staff Holder, the woman who'd been his master and teacher since he was little. Her scathing words made it clear that he was in for a merciless scolding. But a friendly smile lit his face as if he believed he had nothing at all to do with his mistakes.
"You did a good job binding the Hill Giant with Grass Tendril Magic. But what in the Spirits got into you after that? Why did you let an unconfirmed victory go to your head?! I always tell you to aim for the Giants' weak spot and finish them off fast because their superhuman strength can turn the tides of battle on you!"
"You do…? AAAAHHHH! Y-You're right! I totally forgot—
OWWIE!"
"You fool! It's all over if you die! Why do you always forget the most important things?!"
He received a second whack to the head, this one forming a big bump.
Tonukapoli was frustrated by this boy who didn't get it no matter how many times she drilled it into his little head. She'd known him since he was a baby. He was like a grandchild to her, so of course she loved him, but she was more exasperated with him than anything else.
Pepe was an undisputed idiot. He was about the only person in all of Phon'kaven who wouldn't acknowledge it, which went to show just how much of a headache all the problems this troublesome youth brought to Tonukapoli.
"Aww, but Granny—"
"Stop calling me Granny! You're a Staff Holder Shaman now, too! You'll be pathetic forever if you keep this up!"
"Aww…buuuut…"
"Besides, I'm still a young and energetic 240-year-old!!"
"Living that long makes you a super old granny—"
That last remark earned Pepe his third head-whack of the day.
◇◇◇
AFTER finishing off the Hill Giant, Tonukapoli and Pepe came to a thatched building in the middle of the city to summarize what had happened to the other Staff Holders. The building seemed more like an old ceremonial hall than a residence or government facility.
In this quiet place lit only by candlelight, several elders thanked Tonukapoli and Pepe for their hard work.
"You did wellll. Ahh, I'm so sorry, Tonukapoli, Pepeeee. If only we were a little younger, we could fight alongside youuuu…"
"Don't sweat it! You guys are gonna kick the bucket soon, so you shouldn't overdo it! Want me to massage your shoulders?"
No manners, loud, as rude as they come, and a terrible massager—Pepe the Fool's true character was on full display. This boy was indeed one of the Staff Holders revered throughout the country. Every elder was exasperated with him and his remarkable talent for bluntly saying whatever was on his mind without respecting hierarchy.
"This boy's still lacking in so many areassss… Oooi, Tonukapoli, what happened to your lessonssss?"
"HRUMPH! Even I'm struggling to teach this dimwit!"
"Buuut, he's the successor we've been waiting forrrr. No one else had what it takes to become a Staff Holderrrr…"
Being a Staff Holder symbolized more than just a position in Phon'kaven. People who could hear the voices of Nature Spirits, their gods, were incredibly rare and invaluable.
The fact that the elders hadn't retired from their positions as Staff Holders despite their old age was proof that no successors had appeared for a long time. Hence, they were overcome with unexpected joy when Pepe, a boy touted as a matchless genius because of that talent, appeared.
However, it seemed his genius went so far over the line, it descended into idiocy…
"HMPH! Our country is as unlucky as they come!!"
"I agreeee…"
"Ehehe! You're all so good at joking around!"
"We're being serious, Pepe!"
Everything seemed to go over his head.
Sure, he was talented, but it was his fatal case of having straw for brains that worried the other Staff Holders. Unfortunately, Phon'kaven was in no position to be picky about such things in their current situation.
One wrong move and lives would've been lost during the Hill Giant's raid, which was why they stopped talking about Pepe to move on to more important topics.
"We're sending you to Dragontaaaan," one of the elderly Staff Holder's told Tonukapoli, his cloudy eyes that could barely see opening wide to focus on her.
"Oh? You're finally getting off your lazy asses to send help? And here I thought you were happily letting them die off after how many times you ignored their calls for reinforcements."
"Don't be a smartass, Tonukapoliiii. We're barely keeping ourselves aliveeee…"
Dragontan was the town they had built close to the Accursed Lands. The Staff Holders had worried about its lack of defenses for a long time, but their hands were full defending the closer towns. Dragontan had been able to hold out this long because the Barbarian attacks were relatively weaker there, but it seemed they were in dire straits now.
"HRUMPH! This is what you get for greedily claiming the Dragon Vein Mine!" Tonukapoli huffed, but even she understood the Dragon Vein Mine's importance.
They were currently researching Tactical Magic. Once they finally completed the resulting technology, it should make it possible for them to refine the powerful Earth Mana that fertilized their empire from the Dragon Vein Mine. That was why they had forced through the construction of a town in such a faraway land.
But now, their decision had placed their countrymen in a pinch.
"What're you going to do about things here? All our towns are barely keeping themselves alive; it's too much to ask them for reinforcements."
"Us old-timers will manageeee. We're Staff Holders, even if we don't look the partttt."
"That sounds like something you say before you die in battle! Owwie!!"
A clean whack echoed through the hall.
Was Pepe becoming more of a fool by the elders constantly whacking him on the head? The thought crossed everyone's minds, but they turned their attention to more important things.
They had already decided on their next move, but telling the boy and the old woman about it was distressing.
"We've got an additional favor to ask of you while you're in the areaaaa…"
"…What is it? Spit it out already. You're making me uncomfortable."
Tonukapoli worried her brow over the way the elders were beating around the bush. They were dragging things out even though they knew she preferred to cut to the chase. She waited for the rest, bracing for whatever ridiculous task they were going to push on her.
"According to our divination, there's an Apocalypse-bringer in the Accursed Lands. Please look into it with Pepeeee…"
Understanding exactly what that meant, Tonukapoli squeezed her eyes shut, sucked in a big breath, and slowly exhaled.
Tonukapoli and Pepe were the first and second strongest in all of Phon'kaven. It'd normally be a nation-ending foolish decision to remove your two most powerful military assets from defending the capital city. It was even more ridiculous to risk sending such invaluable assets into the entirely unknown Accursed Lands.
But if the source of the Barbarian attacks lay within the Accursed Lands, and if the two Staff Holders could stop it there, then the problems plaguing Phon'kaven could be solved in one go.
The safest decision would be to take their time gathering information on the Accursed Lands. Sadly, time wasn't on their side.
The risk was high, and it was unclear if it had anything to do with the Barbarians. If that wasn't bad enough, there was no guarantee they would make it back alive.
In other words, Phon'kaven was betting it all on this one decision.
"So you want us to round up the ringleaders behind the Barbarian attacks if we bump into them? Sounds like we've got the deadlier job here, eh?"
"Sorry for leaving the ill-omened work to youuuu."
"Well, it's not like it's guaranteed to be worse! I'll be praying the
Beast and Land gods protect us!"
The journey there wouldn't be hard, but their destination was a cruel one.
They didn't have to rope Pepe into this too, Tonukapoli thought, barely stopping herself from making her unusual complaint known.
Both she and Pepe were Staff Holders. With power and authority comes responsibility. Now was simply the time for him to fulfill his responsibilities.
"Safe travels, Tonukapoliiii," one of the elders said.
"Don't ya go dying on me either, you old goat!" Tonukapoli retorted with her usual gumption.
She had no intention of dying either. In fact, she was keen on completing her mission so perfectly, the elders would be indebted to her for life.
"I'll get ready at once! My staff is itching to be put to use!" "Have a safe trip, Granny Tonukapoli!"
"Somebody wasn't listening again! You're coming too, little idiot!"
"Owwiieee!"
◇◇◇
THAT somewhat idyllic exchange transpired over a week ago, and now Tonukapoli bitterly regretted the decision she made that day.
They often say a foolish child is more precious.
Tonukapoli felt that way about Pepe.
She was prepared for a dangerous mission but not prepared enough. She never expected she was up against certain death.
Perhaps she had too much confidence in her own strength. She went into this mission optimistic that the worst they could expect was slight losses to their accompanying guard detail.
It went without saying that the idyllic nature of Phon'kaven's people worked against them during this expedition.
For on this day, Phon'kaven made first contact with Mynoghra.
"Dark Elves? But their ominous aura says otherwise…"
"Oh? And who might you be…?"
Dragontan was the town constructed around the Dragon Vein Mine.
After taking a short break in town, Tonukapoli had confided the despairing news to the mayor, who was pleased with what she thought was reinforcements, and then they set out for the Accursed Lands, where they encountered the Dark Elves straightaway.
They were up against a girl with an ominous aura and the Dark Elf warriors accompanying her. Unlike the people living to the north, the multiracial empire of Phon'kaven didn't discriminate against Dark Elves.
But it was questionable if these were even the Dark Elves they knew of…
The group before them was clad in such thick darkness, it was noticeable at a glance. Especially the girl leading them. Her aura was so dark it could blot out the sun.
Tonukapoli's instincts set off every alarm, warning her that the Hill Giants she'd faced before were like defenseless infants compared to this entity.
One glance at the Accursed Lands towering behind the girl's group informed the cow-headed Shaman that things were already too much for her to handle. Whatever resided there seemed to be concealing it well, but once you became as skilled as Tonukapoli, it was clear as day that the Accursed Lands had been polluted by evil forces.
A profound and terrifying evil had come from the forest to greet them.
"You aren't mortal…"
"…Right you are," the girl quietly answered Tonukapoli's question.
Her words alone chilled Phon'kaven's expeditionary forces to the bone. Her dulcet voice couldn't hide the terrifying truth contained within her remark.
"L-Lady Tonukapoli! Wh-What are they?!"
"That's what I'd like to know! Don't draw your weapons or make any sudden moves, you hear me?!" Tonukapoli hastily ordered the soldiers.
Bringing an elite unit consisting of only Beastmen, known as the Fang Corps, had been a bad move. They were incapable of using rudimentary magic and communicating with Nature Spirits, but their animal instincts detected the immense evil, throwing them into a state of dismay.
Everyone was terrified of the dark aura and on the verge of acting recklessly based solely on what their instincts told them.
Word had it that the dark ones hated everyone and wanted to extinguish all life. Living creatures also all had an instinctive repulsion toward dark beings.
It was still unknown if they were the ones instigating the Barbarians.
Their strength was also unknown.
But Tonukapoli's instincts screamed at her: you shouldn't fight. These aren't enemies you can defeat. Run. Now.
As time painfully ticked by, Tonukapoli racked her brain for a way out.
"Gia, order everyone to standby until I say otherwise."
"As you command."
Atou was also quietly giving Gia orders.
As a general rule, Atou didn't trust anything outside of
Mynoghra. It didn't help that this encounter resembled the one they had with the Holy Kingdom of Qualia's reconnaissance team.
The inevitable outcome was clear, but King Takuto had sent them out on a different mission this time. They had several strategies for visiting the nearby town, but they didn't plan to encounter their forces first.
Not only could Atou not report the operation's failure to Takuto, but she'd screwed up by dedicating too much of her attention to playing out how the conversation in Dragontan might go. She was so focused, she became less aware of her surroundings.
She wanted to defuse the tension, but her opponents—the Beastmen Soldiers in particular—were extremely wary. She might cause the whole situation to explode if she made the wrong move now.
She wanted to avoid that at all costs.
Atou and the Dark Elves were tense as well.
Tension has a way of begetting more tension, restraining everyone's actions out of fear of an undesirable future.
Anxiety that even speaking a single word could lead to irrevocable harm made both sides hesitant to move a finger.
It was at this time when the tension reached its limit and battle seemed inevitable that—
"May I have everybody's attention?!"
—a voice rang out with as little reserve as someone purposely jumping on thin ice.
All eyes gathered on one person—the figure that had jumped out in front of Atou and the Dark Elves with his right hand raised like a child trying to ask a question. Probably the shortest person present, he broke out in a big grin as if moving into the limelight delighted him.
…It goes without saying the person in question was Pepe the Fool.
Even Tonukapoli, his overseer, gaped at his crazy behavior.
Everyone's brains eventually caught up with the abrupt change in the situation, and a second before either side could process how to deal with him—
"Hello! My name is Pepe! What's yours?!"
—a cheerful greeting emitted by a boy who couldn't read the mood shattered their responses.
<-x-X-x->
The two hostile groups that had been staring each other down, ready for a fight only minutes prior, now had trouble finding the right words to say for an entirely different reason that had nothing to do with the earlier tension.
Mynoghra and Phon'kaven's elite troops were presently walking together down the unmarked path through the Accursed Lands. They had but one destination: Mynoghra's Imperial Capital.
Atou and the Dark Elves led the way for Phon'kaven's commanders, who'd requested an audience with Takuto. Still, their expressions were less than appropriate for this critical mission that would influence the future of their empire.
"And then that's when I said: 'Nefarious scoundrels who dare to lay ruin to Phon'kaven, have a taste of my magic!' I said it just like that! Are you listening, Miss Atou?!"
"Yes, I heard you loud and clear."
"Boy, oh boy, those Demi-humans really make me work! I just know Phon'kaven would be a pile of rubble by now if I wasn't around! No question about it!"
Atou frowned as she was made to listen to the boy's innocently embellished tales of his own heroic deeds. She wasn't particularly disgusted by it, but his incessant prattling was wearing her down.
"I-I see… You must have it rough," Atou responded politely. "Uncivilized Barbarians occasionally attack people who are just trying to live in peace. They are a nuisance that only brings harm, never any benefit."
"You can say that again! You are so, so right, Miss Atou! Wow! Like, wow! I'm thrilled you get me! It feels like we've always been good friends! Wahaha!" Pepe brayed with laughter.
Thanks to this spirited and wacky boy's greeting, the two armed forces were able to finally take their tense encounter in a peaceful direction. Pepe had done a marvelous job of mediating the volatile situation, but everyone's estimation of him was on a steady decline after that. If anything, both sides were growing rapidly more exasperated with him.
He'd been acting like this ever since he first interjected himself into the negotiations. No one asked him to blab on and on about himself, but he did it anyway.
"Pardon me, Lady Tonukapoli, but why is this child sticking so close to me…?"
"Please ignore him, Lady Atou. That child is a fool."
"Haa," Atou sighed aloud, which was an unusual public display of irritation on her part. That was how much she was struggling to get a feel for the boy named Pepe. Something about him threw her entirely off her game. "That makes sense…"
They were still in the preliminary stages of negotiation, which required a delicate hand, and yet there was this oddly relaxed atmosphere between them, as if they were a group of friends enjoying a hike on a peaceful, sunny afternoon.
Atou knew the cause—it was all the doing of the boy with a wily personality, who seemed more than just incapable of reading the mood. She was starting to suspect he had some unique skill to defuse tension and calm the room.
Whether he did or not, it didn't do anything to make the situation worse. However strangely it had happened, they avoided going to battle. She didn't know where things would go from there, but the current situation was working out well for her side too. Thus, Atou forcefully convinced herself that the world was full of all sorts of personalities, and she shouldn't kill him just because he got under her skin.
"I must say, the miasma is dense here," Tonukapoli commented. "It's even starting to get to me."
"I apologize, but that's not something we can fix, Lady Tonukapoli," Atou said. "It is a part of our people… But please feel free to let me know if it is too much for you. We are more than happy to hold this meeting in a different location on another day."
Atou actually wanted to hold off the meeting between
Commanders until both sides could feel each other out a little better, but the other empire requested an urgent audience with Takuto. She was momentarily concerned they were scheming something, but Takuto had telepathically persuaded her otherwise.
His thought on the matter was that they were probably seeking urgent aid or information about the Barbarians attacking their towns, which made sense to her too. Mynoghra's empire-management council had already confirmed Dragontan was in a state of impending doom.
There was no telling if Phon'kaven wanted supplies or something else, but the one clear thing was that they couldn't afford to make an enemy of Mynoghra right now. And just as Takuto had predicted, Tonukapoli couldn't fully conceal her urgency.
"Nah, as they say, never put off till tomorrow what you can do today," Tonukapoli said. "Well, it was a bit much on my soldiers, so I left most of them outside the forest. But hey, we're the ones who pushed for this meeting. It's only right for us to suck it up and see it through."
"Thank you for being considerate of us. Our king sincerely welcomes you."
Did her desperation bleed through because they were that hardpressed or because she simply didn't know how to deceive others? Either way, any action against Mynoghra would be in vain. The moment their Commanders stepped foot within Mynoghra's territory, they were put at a massive disadvantage.
Atou's strength had already risen to the point where her mere presence would put a decisive end to any battle. In the off-chance that they did have some evil plot in mind, Atou was confident she could pulverize them in a head-on battle now.
"I'm kinda hungry now!" Pepe proclaimed. "Maybe it's just me, but my legs feel like lead!"
"Um, Lady Tonukapoli? Will he be all right?" Atou asked.
Most of Tonukapoli's troops were waiting outside of the Accursed Lands because the miasma made them sick. Only the strongest mustered their willpower to accompany their
Commanders, but even they looked ill. The same held true of those capable of competing with the Dark Elf Warriors on equal footing. So, it was bizarre that this little boy was well enough to cheerily blather about inconsequential things.
"He's too much of a fool to notice."
Judging by that remark, even his fellow Staff Holder and teacher didn't know why he was okay.
Pepe proceeded down the pathless trail with a hop in his step. Swinging a branch he'd scooped up off the ground, he chatted up every Dark Elf he saw like he was having the time of his life.
Atou wanted to rein in any excess talking, but she didn't want to offend an official state guest.
Sympathizing with the troubled Dark Elves, Tonukapoli asked them to put up with the Fool's antics just a little longer and returned her attention to Atou.
"On another note, would you be willing to tell me a bit about Mynoghra's King, Lady Atou? I'd hate to offend him over cultural differences."
"Yes! I'd love to! Allow me to begin by explaining His Majesty's greatness, coolness, kindness, and awesomeness!"
Atou's expression, which had occasionally grown pensive during their walk, instantly lit up like a candle. That change alone was enough to inform Tonukapoli how much she respected and adored her king.
This girl, who enthusiastically regaled Tonukapoli with tales of her king's wonderfulness, was by all estimations…an unfathomable monster. She concealed unparalleled power within her cute, petite frame.
A monster found only in legends and myths—what kind of king would such a being lovingly serve?
As the miasma grew thicker, chilling anxiety flooded Tonukapoli.
All right, what in the Spirit realm is waiting for us…?
Tonukapoli's thoughts went straight to the legends about the King of Ruin, who was said to have been sealed in the Accursed Lands.
Did we make the right decision? We've come this far because we got swept up in Pepe's antics, but I can't shake the feeling this is a big mistake.
The old lady shook her cow's head to chase away the apprehension bubbling in her gut.
◇◇◇
STANDING before that being, the old woman named Tonukapoli was made aware of just how small and fleeting her existence was. She was like a blade of grass before a tornado. The entity sitting upon the throne in the Throne Room gave off an aura that separated it from all living things in this world and impressed the deepest darkness upon her soul—the kind that threatened to swallow her whole.
Something straight out of a nightmare just moved in next door…
At first glance, it appeared Human. But it looked like some child had painted over its form with black ink, and it incited the instinctual fear that just touching it would rip your mind to shreds.
This was the King revered by the girl Atou.
A true monster revered by other monsters.
Tonukapoli forgot to breathe before this being that surpassed her knowledge, imagination, and expectations and instead focused solely on reining in her heart's desire to scream.
Darkness permeates every corner of this Palace. We can't escape this. That thing must be an Archdemon…or maybe a Demon Lord with an army. Aaugh, fine, I'll admit I'm wrong. That thing is Evil God class, no matter how you slice it.
Their eyes met in silence.
Tonukapoli was up against a being that normally resided in the world of legends and myths. That said, she wasn't going to thoughtlessly bend a knee before it.
Although he was a terrifying Evil God, he was also the leader of a country she was about to negotiate with as the representative of Phon'kaven.
They were of equal standing. Thus, Tonukapoli quietly assessed the entity, stifling her overwhelming fear while she waited for the official introductions to commence.
"This is our great and mighty king, Takuto Ira," Atou introduced Takuto to Tonukapoli's group first, then addressed her king. "King Takuto, they are Phon'kaven's Commanders that I informed you of earlier, Staff Holder Tonukapoli and Pepe."
"Fascinating."
A hand wrapped around Tonukapoli's heart and crushed it with ease.
No…that was just a hallucination.
Words are an ancient form of putting people under a curse.
Tonukapoli had heard that the people of old understood the power of words and did not speak at all unless absolutely necessary. In her younger days, she'd snorted at that legend and thought it nonsense, but now she'd seriously listen to and believe the former Staff Holder who taught her about the power of words.
Just a single word uttered by the King was that dangerous.
Tonukapoli wanted to turn tail and run. She wanted to pretend she never saw anything and forget all that had transpired here. Her weak heart reared its ugly head, destabilizing her disciplined mind.
Even so, she was one of the twelve Staff Holders who governed Phon'kaven. In the name of the Gods of Nature and for the pride of her nation, she spoke with authority and not fear.
"O great king, it is a pleasure to meet you. I am one of the twelve Phon'kaven Staff Holders, Scimitar-horned Tonukapoli. Thank you for—"
"How do you do?! My name is Pepe, and I'm from Phon'kaven! It's nice to meet ya! Please be my friend!"
"NUUOOOOOO! PEPEEEEE! YOU FOOOOOOOOOOOL!!"
So much for coming across as authoritative. This was a pictureperfect demonstration of what it means not to be able to read the room.
Tonukapoli hurriedly clamped her hands over her mouth after her uncontrollable outburst. Sure, she was struck with admiration for the boy's courage to casually greet the King of Mynoghra, who instilled fear in the two-hundred-year-old woman. But she wished he held his tongue.
Assuming that Pepe would be just as paralyzed with fear as her was the greatest mistake of Tonukapoli's life.
"Friends…?"
"P-Please forgive us, King Takuto Ira! Pepe was so nervous he spoke out of turn. I'd appreciate it if you could laugh and overlook it as a youngster's oversight."
Tonukapoli tried to smooth things over before Takuto could respond. She doubted he was so narrow-minded he'd blow up over such a minor slight, but there was a good chance it lowered his estimation of them.
It was absurd for diplomatic leaders to ask each other to be friends. Doing so was apt to bring the other leader's capabilities into question, consequently damaging that nation's reputation.
What nonsense is he spewing at such a critical time?!
While barely keeping her vision and mind from blacking out, Tonukapoli regretted her negligent education turning Pepe into such an eccentric little devil. She believed she'd picked the right words to sweep his blunder under the rug, but…
"Sure. We can be friends. I like that. Let's be good friends."
"YAY!"
"WHAAAAAT?!"
Contrary to Tonukapoli's expectations, the King's response was truly a bolt out of the blue.
National leaders being friends? Is he serious? What is he plotting? What is he after?
Tonukapoli looked away as she ruminated over answerless questions. Her gaze landed on the King's confidant, Atou.
Tonukapoli had established a rough idea about the girl's personality during their long hike to the Palace. She had determined that although the girl was evil by nature, her way of thinking and manners fell in line with the rest of the world.
If that were true, then she should also have misgivings about this situation. Tonukapoli actually looked to her, hoping to find the same shock she felt, but…Atou's reaction was just as weird, if not weirder.
The girl had pressed a hand against her cheek, tears filling her eyes in her excitement.
.
--------------->
.
"Oooh! What a marvelous day!"
"E-Er, Lady Atou?"
"Congratulations on your first friend, King Takuto!! Come on, everyone! Applaud!"
The Dark Elves guarding the King began applauding with gusto. Atou followed suit, looking beyond delighted. The King bashfully scratched his head.
I don't get it.
Tonukapoli didn't get it, but she clapped anyway. After all, she was the only one not joining in, as Pepe was merrily slapping his hands together.
A merry mood settled over the Throne Room. All the tension instantly dispersed, leaving Tonukapoli beyond baffled over what the heck just transpired.
Th-This has turned into something outrageous, hasn't it…?
Was Mynoghra's King purposely playing along with Pepe's suggestion to alleviate the tension? Or was he mocking them?
Or perhaps he was seriously trying to befriend them.
The problem was, King Takuto Ira had no expression to go by. He simply looked like jet-black darkness pretending to be a bashful Human.
Are we just applauding and congratulating an empty void? Tonukapoli couldn't shake that chilling thought.
The only thing she knew for sure was that Mynoghra's King Takuto Ira was a being far beyond her understanding.
<-x-X-x->
Chapter 4: Hospitality
TONUKAPOLI was dumbfounded…because discussions had led to a banquet being held to celebrate the new friendship between Pepe and Takuto. At first, she thought it was a part of some elaborate scheme, but the girl embodying the source of all evil seemed genuinely thrilled about their friendship, so Tonukapoli convinced herself it really was just a celebratory feast.
Food was carried out in droves to their table before long. Every dish consisted of ingredients she'd never seen or heard of before. But the aroma was heavenly, and even Tonukapoli, who usually never cared about what she put in her mouth, had to swallow back her drool.
"Please dig in!" Atou exclaimed. "It's an auspicious occasion! Go on! Have a bite. You too, Lady Tonukapoli!"
"I-I will. Thanks."
Urged to eat, Tonukapoli picked up one of the fruits first. She didn't consume meat or grains, so it was the obvious choice. The beautifully sliced fruit was a bright orange color, and she could tell it was of the finest quality from the scrumptiously sweet smell.
Tonukapoli couldn't hide her astonishment that such a sophisticated fruit existed. So she asked one of the Dark Elf girl's—an odd girl with half her face burned—serving the food about it. The girl's smile dimpled her ruddy cheeks as she explained that it was a special kind of food called "The Gift of the Sun" or "Golden Berries."
Heh. I see. It's pretty bold and daring to call it a gift from the almighty sun burning in the sky, but I can't say that naming sense is disrespectful when it's for something of this quality. Though I can't really judge it until I try it.
Tonukapoli picked up a silver fork set on the table in front of her, closely stared at the sticky, juicy fruit, and finally worked up the nerve to pop it into her mouth.
Wh-What in the Spirit realm is this?!!
The moment she tasted it, every sweet thing she'd ever tried before was reduced to tasting worse than sand in comparison.
What a flavor! What a little treasure!
The tangy sweetness spreading over her tongue blew away her expectations. It was so soft that it fell apart just by rolling it lightly with the tip of her tongue, and juice gushed out every time she chewed. Most astonishing of all was the delectable scent transmitted from her mouth through her nasal cavity and how that alone was tantalizing enough to melt the walls she'd built up around her mind.
Delighted cries rose up all around her—cries belonging to the elite troops who'd accompanied Tonukapoli into the Accursed Lands. They were eating with such gusto they seemed to have forgotten how sick the thick miasma made them until now. She couldn't really blame them for their quick change in attitude after they had a taste of something otherworldly.
Her stomach, which should've shrunk with age, seemed to suddenly remember its more youthful days as it nagged her to give it more food. With sheer willpower, she forcefully stopped her hand as it greedily reached for the next plate…
Tonukapoli quietly analyzed the strange phenomenon she'd just experienced and scrutinized Mynoghra's leaders.
"I know this is a rude question but is this food…tainted?"
Giving Pepe a sidelong glance as he continued shoveling food into his mouth without hesitation, Tonukapoli put her question to Atou, making sure to keep her emotions off her face.
It is said that evil beings taint and corrupt people. They quietly enter every aspect of your life and ensnare the soul so that you can never escape.
Evil takes many forms to do this.
For example, a treasure that is so dazzling you won't use it your entire life.
For example, a beautiful siren of a princess who will make it so you have eyes for no other once you look upon her.
…For example, a food that you will never forget after taking a single bite.
She wasn't so feeble with age to lose her mind, but even she found that fruit to be the culmination of all that makes eating pleasurable, to the point it made her want to greedily devour it and seek out more, decorum be damned.
Thus, she asked to know what she had been fed. To make it known that such tantalizing food shouldn't be allowed to exist in this world.
But the doubts that she should've posed with tension and wariness were immediately denied by Atou, who looked a tad surprised.
"Tainted food? Oooh! I get it. It was so delicious you wondered if it would have some sort of negative influence over you, right? Don't worry, there's none of that," Atou reassured with a wave of her hand.
Tonukapoli was baffled by her reaction, but she wasn't going to cease her inquiry there. After all, she was faced with a table full of otherworldly, demonic food capable of seducing every living creature. This food was so valuable that even the dishes on the table could cause a conflict resulting in death depending on the situation.
Chucking just a plate of this food into a room full of Qualia's greedy clergymen was liable to cause a laughable conflict.
Tonukapoli was sure of it—that was the kind of power and sway this food had over people.
It was only natural she wouldn't be convinced of its safety until she learned of its origins.
"Hmm," Atou hummed, placing a finger to her lips. "How should I explain? This food can only be grown in our empire. I cannot go into greater detail as it's a national secret, but I can guarantee it is safe for all races to consume."
Atou gave that excessive explanation out of consideration for Tonukapoli's wariness. Not even Tonukapoli could press for more details when it was explained away as a national secret.
It was unbelievably delicious, but as long as it existed upon the table, she couldn't disregard it as an illusion.
"It's tasty."
"It's so tasty, you'll eat too much and make your bottoms burst at the seams!"
"I see, I see. That's some amazing food."
The two Dark Elf girls serving food brought additional dishes to Tonukapoli with angelic smiles. As she accepted the plates, she smiled at the innocent girls who were just like little angels despite serving the embodiment of evil.
I want to exchange our foolish Pepe for one of them…
Tonukapoli glanced sideways at Pepe, who was in the middle of sinking his teeth into some weird food consisting of meat between two pieces of bread. He'd been saying nothing but "Yummy, yummy!" the whole time, but he was always the type to call anything he ate yummy, so it was hard to say if he actually understood how unusual their food was.
Still, if Pepe could eat the food they served with confidence, then it was probably safe. Tonukapoli let out a long, relieved sigh over her fears being unfounded. Then she apologized for having ever doubted Mynoghra and praised them for preparing such a wonderful feast that it gave her such doubts. Her praise seemed to delight Atou and her people as the Dark Elf girls brought even more plates of food to Tonukapoli.
Nevertheless, Tonukapoli was struck with admiration. Being able to produce this much fruit and food indicated Mynoghra had advanced technological capabilities. Not to mention affluence.
Food was generally considered good if it was edible. This held especially true on the Dark Continent, where it was difficult to produce crops. So sparing food for lavish meals proved they had a high production capacity. Tonukapoli had asked the twins about it, and they said they normally ate this well.
This food was good enough to be served in the Imperial Palace, so she assumed it was reserved for special occasions, not something to be eaten all the time. Too curious to leave it at that, Tonukapoli further questioned the twins, who told her that while the food was special, all of Mynoghra's citizens had the opportunity to eat it.
If that were true, then they were a tremendously blessed people.
It also served as a painful wake-up call about just how barely edible and horrible the food Tonukapoli's people had been eating all this time really was. At the same time, she also wondered how in the Spirit realm she could go back and suffer eating the food of her homeland after knowing what heaven tasted like. The single bite of fruit she'd consumed had this great of an impact on the old woman. "All of this comes from His Majesty," Atou explained. "Every citizen has access to more food than they could ever eat. Please enjoy every bite until you are satisfied. Mynoghra prides itself on providing the most delicious food in the world."
"Yeah, it's certainly the best in the world, I'd say. I've heard a lot of different regions boast about this or that, but this is the first time the boasting doesn't do the product justice. I haven't been eating much these days, but I might have to start watching my weight if I hang out with you people…"
Tonukapoli's belly was bulging against her clothes before she realized it. She'd tried several different dishes aside from the various fruits, all of which were new to her and unlike anything she'd ever tasted before. She seemed to have eaten a considerable amount of food as she tested every dish with relish.
I can't believe I binge ate during a banquet hosted by another nation and put on weight at my age. Who knows what crass and witty remarks my fellow Staff Holders will make when I tell them.
Feeling a little self-conscious, Tonukapoli tossed a tiny purple fruit into her mouth, telling herself it would be her last bite of food for the day…but then she wanted a little more.
I'd better prepare myself to get lectured once I give my report back home, Tonukapoli thought, giving in to the temptation.
"Nobody will care if you get fat, Granny— YEOWCH! That hurt worse than usual!"
"Are you okay?" one of the Dark Elf twins asked.
"Your skull sounded like an empty can being hit…" the other twin said.
But she had to get retribution for Pepe's slip of the tongue before the other Staff Holders could…
-x-X-x-
After shooting Pepe, whose eyes filled with tears after being whacked on the head with twice her usual force, an evil look, Tonukapoli shifted her gaze to Takuto Ira, the king of the empire called Mynoghra. No matter how much she looked at it sitting there dining with them like it was only natural, she couldn't get used to it.
How could she?
After all, he appeared to be an Evil God. It was a miracle she could stay calm in his presence. Regardless of how she felt, they were at the point of no return.
There was an old proverb that went something like, "You can't obtain treasure if you don't venture into the dragon's den."
There was a risk they were being deceived, but forming friendly relations with Mynoghra would truly benefit their nation.
She hadn't the faintest clue what the King was.
He was creepy, evil, and she didn't think for one second he had a shred of mortal emotion. He sat perfectly still on his chair, emitting unfathomable terror as easily as breathing air.
What was the King thinking? What was he trying to do?
The only thing Tonukapoli could tell about him was that he somehow seemed to be in a good mood. Try as she might, she couldn't fathom how in the world he was put into such a mood by Pepe's comment.
She might not understand how it happened, but it appeared Pepe the Fool did his foolish best to aid Phon'kaven. As she rejoiced over her grandson's growth, Tonukapoli finally started to loosen up a little.
"I know! Let's ask them to sell this food to us! Everybody will be so happy!"
So much for his growth—he just threw a fireball into their midst as things were starting to cool down. Pepe suggested the most ridiculous thing with stars in his eyes.
There he goes stirring up trouble again…
Tonukapoli held a hand to her aching head, but the cat was already out of the bag. He had to go and toss that comment out there at the worst timing when she'd hoped to bring their biggest concerns to Mynoghra after the banquet.
Tonukapoli softly scolded Pepe as she prayed to the Nature Spirits to do something about the foolish child before he could utter any other stupid ideas that came to his little head.
"We can't very well ask them to sell such high-quality food to us. They aren't likely willing to share it with other nations. Besides, we only just formed friendly relations with them. I understand how you feel, but it's too soon for that, Pepe."
Mynoghra's food was very tempting. They should have a surplus in food supplies and production if all of their citizens sustain a diet of three good meals a day.
The food situation in Phon'kaven was grave given their current circumstances. It'd be exceedingly beneficial to their nation to acquire some food through trade, even if it wasn't of the highest quality.
But as she'd just warned Pepe, their relationship with Mynoghra wasn't even a day old yet. This wasn't something to negotiate during the early stages of their relationship.
"Sure."
"A-Are you sure you're okay with that, King Takuto Ira?!"
"Yup."
If Pepe was considered irrational by Phon'kaven's standards, then irrational WAS the standard in Mynoghra.
King Takuto Ira immediately jumped on Pepe's suggestion and went along with it as if he were brought a terrific deal.
"You never cease to amaze, King Takuto! This is a wonderful plan!"
"Let's draft up the details later!"
Any vassal in their right mind should have objected and pleaded with their king to reconsider, but they were all for it as if it were an ingenious idea.
The mystery of how they could so boldly strike a deal at a second's notice was only growing more questionable, but Tonukapoli needed this negotiation to work.
This was their chance. Tonukapoli thought of the products her country could export so she could conclude these negotiations on the best possible terms.
"All right. I can't hide my delight over this wonderful proposition either, but what does your nation want in return? Let me be clear with you: we don't have any specialty products to offer you. Not that I can think of anything in this world with equal value to food as amazing as this."
"That's a valid point… We don't need anything special. We just want consumable goods such as metal equipment, daily necessities, entertainment goods, paper, cloth, and the like. We will accept that as equal payment. We will keep the food we sell you at a reasonable price, too."
Consumable goods.
Tonukapoli furrowed her brow. What did they need any of that for?
Phon'kaven would have no problem exporting miscellaneous goods and consumables. None of that was confidential or invaluable, which begged the question of why Mynoghra needed them.
"Hmm, we can afford to export those items. However…I can't see what you need it for. For example, you have such beautiful tableware. It's of an unbelievable quality I have never seen before.
Even the advanced nation of Qualia doesn't have anything like this.
And obviously, we don't either."
Plates, bowls, cups, and candlesticks lined the long table. Looking at the eating utensils they provided, called forks and spoons, Tonukapoli questioned their need out of pure curiosity.
Atou smiled vaguely and shook her head, simply answering,
"Because there is a demand for products from other countries."
Tonukapoli scrutinized her expression but couldn't understand the intentions hidden behind her smile.
Even a cunning old Mage who'd lived for hundreds of years was no match for a creature beyond mortal understanding. After a long pause, Tonukapoli sighed and held up both hands in defeat.
It wasn't a bad deal. The farmland in Phon'kaven had been destroyed by the Barbarians. In fact, there was a real problem with their food supply, as they needed to allocate able bodies to the defense force. They couldn't have asked for a better deal than to fill their empty bellies at the price of unimportant, easily produced miscellaneous goods.
"We'll leave it at that. We don't have any issues with the terms.
It's a good deal both parties can agree to."
In the end, some rough arrangements were made on the spot, which was an unexpected gain for Tonukapoli. Objectively, importing food from a nation they had just met risked potential contamination and poisoning, but she determined that problem could be solved later with food inspections.
In any case, Mynoghra's food was enticing. They were receiving a tremendous benefit with minimal effort.
Eventually, the meal came to an end, and the table was cleared. After everyone had a chance to relax with some post-meal drinks, Atou eased them into the main topic of discussion.
"All right, we didn't get the chance to speak at length about it earlier, so we would like to know what business brought you to our territory."
"Yes, of course. I'll be the one to speak on this matter. It's a tad too complicated for Pepe, after all."
It was time to get to the real issue at hand: the bizarre phenomenon plaguing Phon'kaven. If they could grasp even a fragment of understanding about what was happening, that would be satisfactory, and if they could obtain support from Mynoghra through negotiations, that would be more than they could ever ask for.
From their conversations thus far, it was doubtful for Mynoghra to be related to the sudden Barbarian outbreak. Mynoghra seemed concerned about the Barbarians as well, and they didn't seem to have the sick hobby of enjoying sitting back and watching as they played Phon'kaven.
As far as she could tell from the terrifying girl called Atou, Mynoghra appeared to be the type that took pride in establishing and adhering to contracts. Renegading on one would hurt their lofty pride.
In which case, they should be able to work together…even if it meant joining hands with evil. And Tonukapoli and Pepe were the only ones who could make this deal happen.
It was a crucial moment.
Tonukapoli was grateful to Pepe and King Takuto Ira for making peace right off the bat. They were fortunate this wasn't a very strict and ceremonious moment. She was an amateur when it came to international negotiations. She didn't know what horrible mistakes she'd make when she was nervous. But being too relaxed was a problem in and of itself.
She downed the liquid in her glass to help her concentrate on the upcoming conversation. An unknown delicacy slid over her tongue and down her throat, but strangely, she couldn't fully enjoy the taste under these circumstances.
They were finally talking about what mattered to both parties: the purpose for which Phon'kaven came to the Accursed Lands.
Of course, Tonukapoli wasn't going to reveal everything about her true purpose for being there—their investigation into the Barbarian attacks and how to stop them. Showing all your cards is synonymous with exposing your weaknesses, putting you at a disadvantage in negotiations, even if the other party is an ally.
Thus, she reduced her explanation down to the slightly altered truth that they were investigating the Accursed Lands as a part of a preliminary investigation into the Barbarians, which they hoped would lead to an answer on how they could eliminate them at their source.
They needed to prevent Mynoghra from learning that they had fallen behind in staving off the Barbarians. They couldn't let it be known that their insufficient strength led to Dragontan being left to fend for itself without reinforcements.
Tonukapoli took special care to word those matters without giving anything away. And yet…
"So you have insufficient military forces then."
Takuto Ira's remark accurately summarized the core of their problem. In any normal situation, his candid assessment would be grounds for offense, even if it was true—or rather, because it was true. However, it didn't upset Tonukapoli.
After all, she understood she was dealing with a being that stood separate from the common man. He probably didn't take normal sensibilities into consideration when he spoke. Rather, he just uttered exactly how he felt. In which case, it was pointless to resent every little thing he said. On the contrary, the more upset she became, the greater an advantage she was giving him.
However, she couldn't let things end with him thinking they had insufficient military means. She needed to parry that comment with a good excuse.
Tonukapoli schooled her expression into one of serene calm as she responded to him at her leisure.
"Nah, we could handle them if we get serious. We've repelled their forces thus far. But that doesn't change the fact that random and frequent Barbarian attacks are still a threat that we don't want growing out of control. The other hard-headed Staff Holders are of the opinion that we should do a preliminary investigation rather than get caught off guard."
It was a painfully bad excuse considering the current state Dragontan was in, but it also made sense. There was a level of persuasiveness behind pinning their inaction on slow, internal decision-making. This also let her communicate the Barbarian threat to Mynoghra.
They had yet to witness Barbarians suddenly showing up out of nowhere. Most of the time, Barbarians had to travel from far distances to reach a territory, or rather, that had always been the norm. When that happened, you could typically see them coming and see signs if they were traveling as a horde.
Dangerous creatures suddenly and randomly appearing within your territory would be a huge concern to any nation. Tonukapoli emphasized that point with her impassioned speech, diverting Mynoghra's attention away from Phon'kaven's waning military might.
"Barbarians are certainly a nuisance, Lady Tonukapoli. Especially the odd way with which they suddenly appear. I presume this is a case of single incidents being easy enough to deal with, but eliminating the root cause presents a greater difficulty?"
"Exactly, Lady Atou. That's why we're out here investigating the cause… We never expected to encounter your kingdom in the process, though."
"We were also surprised to run into you. We were actually in the process of sending a delegation to make contact with your people…" I pulled it off! Tonukapoli internally celebrated her success.
She'd skillfully shifted Mynoghra's attention toward the Barbarians. Now she didn't have to worry about them taking advantage of Phon'kaven's insufficient military means. These negotiations would be a huge success worthy of celebration if she could just get them to offer military aid.
In fact, the Accursed Lands where Mynoghra existed was close to the town of Dragontan, so it wouldn't be strange for them to eventually run into Barbarians too. The Barbarians hadn't come for them yet, probably because of the complexities and chaos that made up the Accursed Lands, but there was no guarantee they'd continue to be safe in the future.
Furthermore, if Dragontan should fall, the Barbarians could turn it into their new base of operations. Unforeseen and random attacks would be a piddly threat compared to living next to their base.
Tonukapoli was confident they'd never let their towns fall into the hands of Barbarians, but Mynoghra might think differently. In other words, this was a problem that concerned them too. Tonukapoli made that abundantly clear as Phon'kaven's representative.
"Still, I must say that Dragontan is located in a difficult spot," Atou remarked. "I'm not one to speak on other nations' affairs, but it must be hard for Phon'kaven to keep such a distant and detached territory safe."
"Hm? Yeah, we've got our reasons for it."
This was another matter Tonukapoli had to keep their attention off of.
A Dragon Vein Mine existed within the town of Dragontan. They had accidentally come across this miracle land that spews out pure Mana during one of their scouting expeditions. So much Magic Power that no mortal could possibly control. Even Ceremonial Magic didn't require such large amounts of Mana.
They presently didn't have any means to utilize it, but if they could complete their research of the technology that would let them use the Dragon Vein Mine's Mana, then they'd obtain a power that would instantly set them apart from the other nations. For that purpose, they forced through the construction of Dragontan and commenced secretly researching it.
If not for the Barbarian problem, they would've completed their research of Military Magic by now.
Lamenting the unreasonableness of the world for making things never go their way, Tonukapoli lied through her teeth, keeping her voice flat all the while.
"Is that so? Well, building a town further away from your main territory does make it easier to claim ownership of the land, including the surrounding area," Atou said understandingly. "It's the way of the world for us to have various reasons for doing things and those things not proceeding as we hope."
"You can say that again. I'd be sipping tea at home right about now if not for those blasted Barbarians coming out of the woodwork… But meeting Mynoghra and King Takuto Ira was a stroke of good fortune amid all this misfortune… Though I hope you see our nation sending two of our strongest Staff Holders out to investigate a remote area as a sign of how well we are faring."
"We're glad to have met Phon'kaven as well."
"Yes, yes, you are absolutely right, King Takuto!" Atou exclaimed. "Our lives would be much easier if everyone in the world was as easy to talk to as the people of Phon'kaven."
The atmosphere surrounding their negotiation was the definition of tranquil. It appeared Tonukapoli had safely crossed the tightrope.
Fortunately, Pepe hadn't interjected himself into the conversation. Things wouldn't have gone this smoothly if he'd been actively involved.
Tonukapoli suddenly felt her heart drop as a horrible realization hit her. Why had Pepe remained silent all this time?
"Oh no!"
"???"
Everyone turned toward the person who let out that hysteric cry.
Their gazes landed upon Pepe, who hadn't uttered a peep since the negotiations began. His boyish face was scrunched up in thought, his arms folded as he tapped them.
What in the Spirit realm had gotten into him? Was he struggling to follow their conversation?
"What's wrong?" Takuto asked before Tonukapoli could.
Pepe's brow remained furrowed as he gave a small nod in response to the question everyone present wanted to ask and truthfully said what was bothering him.
"Didn't we come to investigate the Accursed Lands to find some way to escape letting our country be destroyed?"
"Pepe…foolishness should have its limits even for you!"
"What? Am I wrong?"
"Er, well, what can I say, I sympathize with you, Lady Tonukapoli…" Atou said awkwardly.
"..."
Painful silence followed. No one possessed the ability to do anything other than keep their mouths shut. Tonukapoli was especially at her wit's end.
Who wouldn't be in her position? Her fellow diplomat blabbed about their nation's crisis in the middle of international negotiations. Not even she possessed a silver tongue capable of talking her way out of this one. Anyone, even a gifted genius, would struggle to overcome this difficult situation. That's how bad of a predicament Pepe's statement just placed Phon'kaven in.
However, no matter the dilemma presented by his slip of the tongue, their future still could go in many different directions depending on Mynoghra's response.
"Atou."
"Yes, King Takuto."
…And it appeared that Phon'kaven's future was headed in a surprisingly welcome direction.
"Lady Tonukapoli, please rest assured with the knowledge that we do not harbor any malicious intentions toward Phon'kaven."
The girl expressed Mynoghra's stance as if she were communicating with her king through an invisible connection. Her expression looked troubled. Tonukapoli understood she was being sympathetic to their blunder, and it was evident from the serious gleam in her crimson eyes that her words were meant neither as a joke nor a slight.
"It might be hard to believe, but we are more interested in the internal affairs of our nation than external ones. You may think it strange for evil beings such as us to have no ill intent toward the outside world, but that is who we are and how King Takuto wishes things to be."
Unbelievable words came from her pink lips.
It was generally believed that evil beings desired the suffering of all living things and the world's destruction. Their stance came across as bizarre and contrary to the commonly accepted belief about evil. But going by the way Mynoghra had welcomed them and the Dark Elves who served them, it clearly wasn't a bald-faced lie.
Unable to hide her confusion and unease, Tonukapoli shook her head and directed her question toward Takuto.
"But evil beings are— No, never mind. We also think it's, well, best if nothing bad happens, but—"
"Peace is best."
"…Mmm," Tonukapoli groaned.
What else could she say when that was their stance?
Tonukapoli didn't have nerves of steel, nor was she such an ignorant fool as to call Takuto Ira's intentions into question here.
But still, he threw out peace? At a time like this? Honestly, nothing sounded more suspicious to Tonukapoli than that, but in the off-chance he was telling the truth, they'd never run into another ally whose interests so perfectly aligned with their own.
"We just want to live every day quietly in peace," Atou insisted. "We are actually more concerned that other nations will be the ones to disrupt our peace."
"Yeah, I doubt Qualia or El-Nah will even be open to talking…"
"You understand our concerns?"
"They've made plenty of trouble for us too, yeah."
Tonukapoli agreed with their concerns. No matter how much Mynoghra loved peace and didn't ever intend to invade other nations, the same didn't apply to those nations.
Even a multiracial empire with an understanding of various cultures and religions like Phon'kaven struggled with how to judge them. So it was plain as daylight how those religious zealots who blindly believed in the goodness of gods and spirits and spent every waking moment praying would react to them.
Hmm. Tonukapoli started thinking about the future.
Phon'kaven would eventually be forced to make a decision.
To their north, they had the forces of good that advocated for order, sought obedience and allegiance, and would impose their laws on anyone who joined them.
And to their west, they had the forces of evil that declared they desired peace and harmony and sought friendship and open dialogue.
They were in for a big hassle no matter which side they joined— that much was clear. Tonukapoli's head hurt just thinking about it.
"But I see," Atou said. "We can no longer consider this matter irrelevant to us. I believe we need to take some action. How do you wish to proceed, my king?"
"Friends help each other."
"That's my buddy Takuto Ira for you!!" Pepe squealed with delight.
"Keep your trap shut, Pepe!"
"OUCHIE! I'm getting hit a lot more than usual today!"
They had decided to offer their assistance while Tonukapoli was racking her brain. She decided to just go along with the flow, thinking what will be, will be. Trying to see the big picture as a small player only led to headaches.
Abandoning all thought during an important meeting was more than just a little foolish, but she hadn't lived for several centuries with nothing to show for it. Her final trump card was still in place, and it was working just fine at the moment.
"The King has spoken," Atou said. "We might be able to assist you with Dragontan. Besides, Barbarians possessing various abilities are also an enemy of interest to us…"
"Yaaay!!"
As she observed Pepe throwing his hands into the air with delight, Tonukapoli assessed the value Mynoghra's aid would bring. She hadn't determined their strength yet, but one look at Atou told her they'd be fine. Barbarians wouldn't stand a chance against the King's close confidant.
Their aid would allow Phon'kaven to switch from completely focusing on defense to launching a large-scale investigation into the root cause of the Barbarian outbreak. They'd been seriously considering abandoning Dragontan under recent circumstances. Now, the town's continued survival was practically guaranteed. It was wonderful to see a possible bright future.
Tonukapoli nearly ran from the halls screaming when Pepe opened his big trap, but perhaps his outburst was actually taking them in a better direction. They were able to obtain everything they wanted from this negotiation even while the other party knew their weakness. They ought to return the favor in kind.
At the very least, she knew they lacked daily necessities from their earlier trade talks. Now what would they ask for?
Bracing herself for what was to come, Tonukapoli asked what they wanted in return for their aid.
"We're grateful for the assistance. But there ain't anything more suspicious in the world than when someone says they're just helping out of the good of their heart. You're a bona fide nation yourself. You won't move without good motive to. This little fool here made our problems clear to you, so…what do you want in return for your aid?"
"Since you asked…the Dragon Vein Mine," Atou responded with an innocent grin.
Her instant response suddenly made everything clear.
Tonukapoli cursed her careless self for walking straight into that one. Apparently, she was negotiating with someone a hundred steps ahead of her.
"So, you already knew about that…"
Now that she thought about it, Tonukapoli had never negotiated with another nation before. When she realized that, she understood some part of her had overestimated her own abilities. She'd been arrogant coming into this. At the same time, she also resigned herself to the thought that even if she had come into this armed to make a flawless transaction, it was questionable if she ever would've been on equal footing with Mynoghra.
Oh Spirits. I guess I can't keep picking on Pepe for being a fool. She laughed at herself.
This was the worst possible situation. The Dragon Vein Mine was Phon'kaven's most valuable secret. Even in the harsh environment of the Dark Continent, they still had hope for the future because they were anticipating what they could do with the enormous Mana brought about by the Dragon Vein Mine. Their future hinged on it.
If Mynoghra demanded it as payment, they would have a difficult time standing on equal footing with other nations in the future. At the very least, they wouldn't be able to stand up to Mynoghra.
"We don't mind sharing joint control of it," Atou suggested. "We don't currently have any need for that much Mana, after all. However, we will be the ones to specify the converted element."
"Elemental conversion of pure Mana from the Dragon Vein Mine…eh? We're currently in the process of researching that technology, but I see your nation is already in possession of it."
"Oh my, I guess we beat you to it?"
Atou's remark helped Tonukapoli realize that her people were in the middle of a huge turning point in history. It was impossible to deceive them from the start, and it wasn't any easier to break off their newly established alliance. Apparently, the only path left was to join hands with this nation that appeared to be several steps ahead of them in terms of Magic Technology.
In that case, it was time to accept their fate. They might as well be hanged for a sheep as a lamb.
Tonukapoli broke the slightly nervous, hard expression she'd been maintaining and let out a bray of laughter as she leaned comfortably back in her chair. She made up her mind.
"King Takuto Ira, Lady Atou," she addressed her hosts. "Pepe here is a fool, you see. The biggest fool in our country!" she proclaimed with a tad of humor mixed with pride as she shrugged.
Her sudden proclamation earned blank looks from both Atou and Takuto, and they seemed to be searching for the right words to respond. Meanwhile, the boy she dubbed a fool was bent over with laughter as if he found the whole thing funny.
"Er…I can't comment on that."
"You shouldn't pick on him."
Mynoghra's leaders mildly scolded her on Pepe's behalf.
Tonukapoli howled with laughter at these two evil beings whose caring comments belied their wickedness. "But," she continued through her laughter, "little Pepe here has the best eye for people.
He can determine one's character better than anyone in our nation…
He's never been wrong. Not even once."
Phon'kaven played their trump card. They decided to bet everything on Pepe's ability—on the greatest Staff Holder their nation ever had. On the talents of their great Commander who'd open a path for their nation during a time of crisis.
Every nation has a last resort that is effective enough to influence its fate. The form of that ability varies depending on the times and national policies, but Phon'kaven was no exception. No one in the world—not even beings who came from the outside like Takuto—knew about this ultimate rule.
"Pepe! You decide. You have that authority as a Staff Holder."
Why did Takuto agree to establish a friendly alliance so easily?
Why hadn't Atou taken offense at her almighty king being called Pepe's buddy with no honorifics?
Something was taking place in secret.
"Silly, Granny. I said it from the second we met…"
It had secretly activated, unknown to all present and in the greater world.
"I want to be friends with Mynoghra." It was called The Great Ritual.
"…You heard him. In the name of Staff Holder Tonukapoli and Staff Holder Pepe, we formally seek a friendly alliance between our nation of Phon'kaven and Mynoghra. You good with that?"
"We gladly accept."
An alliance was formed. All at Tonukapoli and Pepe's discretion.
Normally, such a big decision shouldn't be made until they returned to their country and discussed it with the other Staff Holders. That was what was expected of them, and it wouldn't be strange for their arbitrary decision-making to be decried as an abuse of their power as Staff Holders.
But they did it anyway.
It was unknown what the result of their decision would be, but for some reason, the two leaders who came from Phon'kaven were convinced this was for the best.
<-x-X-x->