After three days of travel, we finally arrived at the grand capital of the Land of Royal: Caeloria City. The journey was smooth and uneventful, with no battles to disrupt our progress. Compared to Founder Land, the Land of Royal was slightly smaller, but its well-structured routes made it stand out. The roads were paved with cobblestones, and every town and village had a noticeable presence of guards ensuring safety.
I awoke two days before we reached the capital, my body finally recovering from the intense fatigue caused by sleep deprivation and the aftermath of the battle. Along the way, we stopped at Urethral Town, a well-known hub for travelers moving between the capital and the Golden Harbor.
As we approached the capital's gates, a line of uniformed cops stood waiting to welcome the first division captain and vice-captain. They were impeccably dressed, their dark blue capes adorned with golden wings, and their white uniforms paired with black pants and sturdy battle shoes. Their blades, encased in finely crafted scabbards, glinted in the sunlight.
Exiting the carriage with Yuna and Yukiha, we bowed to the waiting cops, who returned the gesture. I couldn't help but feel awe at the sight of the elite force of the Land of Royal. Yet, amidst my admiration, I sensed something extraordinary—a magic power that eclipsed even Yukiha's and Yuna's strength. It was immense, rivaling or perhaps exceeding the demon we had faced at the Golden Harbor.
The gathered cops parted, and the sound of deliberate, steady footsteps echoed. Emerging from the line was a blonde-haired girl, her presence commanding immediate attention. Her delicate eyelashes framed intense, calm eyes. She wore a white and black haori over loose black pants, exuding an air of authority and maturity.
Even Yukiha and Yuna, typically confident and proud, bowed deeply in her presence. Following their lead, the rest of us instinctively did the same.
"Julia-san," Yukiha greeted warmly, her expression lighting up with admiration. "I didn't know you had returned! It's an honor to have you welcome us."
Julia's calm gaze swept over us as she replied, "The Princess herself requested that I assist you. She also entrusted me with this." She held out a sealed letter and continued, "This contains the details of your next mission. It's a request from the Valoria Nation. I'll be taking care of them from here."
Yuna and Yukiha exchanged a glance before asking Julia for a moment to speak with us privately. Julia nodded in approval, stepping aside to grant us the time.
As Yukiha spoke, her words settled in with a mix of awe and nervousness. "We're being sent on a mission right away, so we'll be leaving you in her hands. That girl is Julia Fibel, the Princess's sister and the highest-ranking figure in the Land of Royal," she explained.
Sheila chimed in warmly, "Be careful on your mission, Yukiha-sama and Yuna-sama. I'll make sure to take good care of everyone here. Please stay safe as well!"
We all said our goodbyes as Yukiha and Yuna remained behind, waiting for their prepared carriage to the Valoria Nation. As Yuna passed by me, she paused briefly, leaning slightly to whisper, "Julia is the protector of all princesses from various lands and arguably the most powerful individual on the continent of Arima. As long as you're not her enemy, you have nothing to fear."
Her words sent a chill down my spine. The most powerful person on the continent? That's terrifying. I couldn't stop myself from trembling slightly.
Julia, clad in her striking blonde and white attire, approached us, her piercing gaze locking onto mine. As we stared at each other, we both spoke simultaneously, "Did we meet before?"
Her expression shifted ever so slightly before she dismissed the question with a wave of her hand. "Forget it. Follow me. The capital is vast and crowded. If you get lost, I'll personally put you in cuffs." Her tone was matter-of-fact, yet there was an undeniable authority behind it. She turned and began walking, her aura commanding the gathered cops to part the crowd for us.
As we moved through the bustling streets, I couldn't shake the oppressive weight of her presence. Her aura was heavy, both dark and light at once, and it pressed against my very being. This woman… she's unbelievably powerful. I found myself growing increasingly uneasy.
The others were busy marveling at the surroundings, but the blonde woman next to me suddenly spoke, her voice low but clear. "You've noticed, haven't you? I'm suppressing my magic power, yet you can still sense it. No wonder the Princess has taken an interest in you."
Her words confirmed my suspicions. The overwhelming power I felt wasn't just my imagination—it was real, and it was immense. Suppressing magic power at such a scale was almost unheard of, yet she made it seem effortless.
We continued walking for what felt like a long time, weaving through the cobblestone streets of the capital. The Land of Royal was noticeably different from the peaceful Founder Land. Guards were stationed at every corner, their presence adding a palpable tension to the air. It was clear this place operated under strict vigilance, its security reflecting its importance and the weight of its responsibilities.
As we continued weaving through the cobblestone streets, the grandness of the Land of Royal grew more apparent with every step. Guards stationed at every corner seemed to scrutinize us with calculated precision, their presence a constant reminder of the land's vigilance and importance.
Finally, we reached the grand structure of Valkyros Palace. The resemblance to the Founder Land's palace was uncanny, yet the atmosphere here was distinctly more rigid. The Dakini Magic Academy stood nearby, as it did in every land of the continent of Arima, serving as the hub for the most talented magic students. Each academy's proximity to its palace symbolized the close ties between governance and magic.
From the capital's entrance to the palace gates, the walk took about 15 minutes. Beyond the gate lay an expansive maze garden, meticulously crafted with vibrant greenery. Every corner of the palace grounds was tightly secured by elite guards, each exuding discipline and readiness.
Approaching the main palace gate, an enormous door opened before us. Inside, guards stood in formation, saluting as we were led through a long, gleaming hallway toward the grand hall. The decor was opulent—gold trinkets adorned every surface, and the walls were lined with historic artworks, each piece telling a story of the past.
The weight of the moment settled heavily upon us as we approached the doors to the grand hall, our nerves mounting. We were about to meet the princess of the Land of Royal in person—a surreal and intimidating prospect.
As the doors creaked open, a dazzling light spilled out, momentarily blinding us. The grand hall was immense, its emptiness accentuating its grandeur. Sacred art adorned every surface, yet the space was dominated by a single throne at its center, where the princess sat.
We began walking toward her, our steps hesitant and filled with anticipation. Suddenly, the princess leaped from her throne, startling me. Before I could react, she was in front of me, clasping my hands with a radiant smile.
"Arisu-sama! Welcome to the Land of Royal!" she exclaimed cheerfully.
The resemblance between her and Julia was striking—they shared the same blonde hair and similar features—but their differences were immediately apparent. Where Julia exuded authority and restraint, the princess, Juliet Fibel, radiated warmth and liveliness. Even their voices carried distinct tones: one commanding, the other bright and energetic.
"Big sister, act like a princess," Julia admonished, her tone sharp but composed.
Juliet coughed lightly, straightened her posture, and offered an apologetic smile. She gracefully returned to her throne, her demeanor shifting to something more regal. "I am Juliet Fibel, one of the five princesses of the continent of Arima and the princess of the Land of Royal!" she declared.
Julia had instructed us to introduce ourselves beforehand, so I stepped forward first. My introduction was simple and direct, lacking the formality one might expect, but I managed. The others followed suit, each making their own impression. When it was Yuzuha's turn, she surprised us all.
Stepping forward, Yuzuha greeted the princess with unexpected formality. Her tone carried an air of familiarity, as though addressing an old acquaintance. "How have you been, Princess Juliet?" she asked with a slight bow.
The room fell silent. Julia's eyes narrowed in confusion, and the princess tilted her head, her expression puzzled. "Do you know each other?" Julia asked, glancing at Juliet for confirmation.
The question lingered in the air, unspoken yet pressing: What connection could Yuzuha possibly have with the princess of the Land of Royal?
"Yuzuha Urawa is a friend of mine. You could say the Urawa clan was an ally of the Fibel Family back then. They helped us immensely, so we should treat them with respect and equality," Princess Juliet said with a warm smile.
"Urawa clan? I've never heard of any connection between us and another clan other than the Kitahara clan," Julia remarked, her brows furrowed in curiosity.
"The Urawa clan has remained hidden for generations. Their abilities aren't combative but invaluable in other ways. They've assisted us in many ways, even contributing to the creation of the Land of Royal," the princess explained, her tone carrying a touch of nostalgia.
"So it was them. I understand now. In that case, I'll call you Lady Yuzuha-san," Julia said, her formal tone making Yuzuha visibly uncomfortable.
Yuzuha's face turned a faint shade of red, and she waved her hands modestly. "You don't have to call me that... Princess Juliet just happened to visit our home when I was little…"
After the introductions, the princess requested a private conversation with Chisaka and Julia. While she dismissed Yukiha's report for later, her focus on Chisaka left me wondering why she was so interested in her.
Before we could leave, a tall woman with striking green hair tied in a ponytail entered the grand hall. Her regal attire rivaled even Juliet's as she introduced herself as Arcelia Wallenstein, the princess' attendant.
The princess turned to her with a commanding yet kind tone. "Arcelia, prepare rooms for our guests inside the palace. Assign someone to assist them with training until the first division captain and vice-captain return in two weeks."
Arcelia nodded and gestured for us to follow her. We left the hall, though Chisaka and Julia remained behind. Before leaving, I leaned closer to Chisaka and whispered, "Behave yourself and try to mind your manners."
Chisaka gave me a small nod, and with that, we exited the room.
The princess, now alone with them, sat on her throne, her demeanor shifting as she leaned forward slightly. "Chisaka-chan, you still remember your past memories, don't you?"
"That's right, Princess Juliet," Chisaka replied, her voice steady. "I can still recall everything from before my brother lost his memories."
"My apologies. That's not what I meant," Juliet said, her tone soft but deliberate. "I'm asking about your previous life before you became Chisaka."
Chisaka stiffened, her eyes widening slightly. How does she know about that? she wondered.
"Don't be nervous," the princess assured her with a gentle smile. "We're not going to do anything to your brother."
"I see... that's a relief," Chisaka replied cautiously. "But why are you asking about it, Princess Juliet?"
"You were just a child back then," Juliet began, her voice carrying a weight of knowledge. "And yet, you were drawn into this world and reincarnated as Chisaka. Even your brother doesn't know the truth. But someday, I'll tell you everything—about your origins and his."
Chisaka hesitated before nodding. "...Alright. I'll tell you everything I know.
The princess's voice broke through the silence, asking about the glow that followed our battle. Chisaka, her tone steady yet distant, began recounting the place we were transported to.
The princess watched her closely, feeling a strange weight in the air as she spoke. Her words painted a dark picture: a place where monsters roamed endlessly, a coliseum of death, as Akane Kitahara had once described it.
There was no light, no escape. Just the suffocating darkness and the stench of death that clung to the very air.
Julia gasped, her voice filled with surprise. "The way you describe it is like…"
"I see. So both of you didn't make it. It's our fault for not reaching the village in time. We got attacked, and I assumed most of it was planned. Kitahara, especially you two, were powerful for your age. Your sister, in particular. You became a threat, and they prepared everything to drag you to the 88th floor, where no one has ever escaped. Not even the Crimson Dragon, Echidna. I was there when you were both transported. They used a magic circle—an advanced one, capable of transporting anyone anywhere in this world."
"She's the one who did it, I'm sure. Hazel, Lucifer's strongest general," Julia interjected.
Chisaka's mind was a whirlwind, struggling to comprehend everything. She was just a child back then, and nothing about this made sense to her.
"The magic circle Hazel used can only be used once every 55 years. It was a high-level teleportation circle. She used it 50 years ago, which means we still have 5 more years to prepare for their attack."
"And we'll make Arisu Tosaki stronger than he was in his past life, is that what you meant, Princess Juliet?" Julia asked, her tone serious.
"That's part of it, but it's not just about making him stronger. He will be the one to grow stronger on his own, through meeting someone. Someone very important. When that time comes, that will be the point where we make our own decisions."
The princess paused before adding, "While your brother is joining the Royal Cops, can you get stronger with Julia's training?"
"Eeehhh!? Do you mean she'll train me herself?" Chisaka's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Yes," the princess replied.
"But for what reason? It should be between brother Tokiro and sister Yuzuha."
"You share similar power to your brother," the princess explained. "Both of them will grow stronger under their captain's training. While they're on their missions, you need to grow stronger as well—strong enough to match your brother's strength."
"The truth is, your brother can't fight alone, even if he's meant to stand alone," Julia added. "That's why, just in case, we need to make someone who can perfectly match Arisu Tosaki's strength."
Chisaka blinked, still trying to process the weight of everything she was hearing. She gathered the courage to ask, her voice uncertain, "Who's stronger between Julia-san and my brother?"
The princess's response came with certainty. "Julia is far stronger. She's one of the strongest people in the world, stronger than any of the Pillars. She's a world-class level, although she's never accepted any titles or invitations from Heavenly Sky. In the historical records, she's considered one of the strongest."
But Julia herself spoke up, her tone thoughtful. "I can defeat anyone at the level of the Shield Demon, but I'm not yet at a level where I could defeat a demon. However, aside from Hayako Makoto and Shynn Makoto, Arisu Tosaki might have a chance in the future."
The weight of their words was almost too much for Chisaka to absorb. Everything was so mysterious, and she wasn't sure if she could believe it all. Her mind raced, but it felt like there were more questions than answers.
"I can't really understand why it's always my brother," Chisaka murmured, her expression clouded with sorrow. "He already suffered enough, both in his current and past life."
Her heart ached for her brother, who seemed to be at the center of all these hidden forces. The sadness in her voice mirrored the turmoil within her, and she could only wonder what would happen next.
A figure in a cloak appeared silently behind the princess. Its face was hidden, only the lower part of its face visible—revealing the expression of a girl. The sadness and sorrow in her mouth were unmistakable, even though her face remained mostly concealed.
The cloaked girl approached Chisaka, and without a word, she gently patted her on the head. Her voice, soft but steady, broke the silence. "It's not the right time to tell you, but we're doing everything for your brother. I promise you that your brother will be safe, and I'll tell you everything. Everything I know about your brother. Can you believe me, Chisa-chan?"
Her voice carried no trace of deceit. Not a single word felt like a lie. The sadness in her tone, paired with the dry tears on her face, made it clear that her words were sincere. Chisaka stood frozen, unsure of what to feel. Her heart trembled as she realized how much trust the girl seemed to have in her.
Before Chisaka could respond, the girl stepped closer, wrapping her arms around her in a tight embrace. The girl trembled as she whispered, her voice breaking with emotion, "I'm glad to see you again. I'm not gonna lose you, or anyone, again this time."
The embrace was warm, comforting, yet full of sorrow. Chisaka couldn't bring herself to push the girl away. Instead, she simply stood there, feeling the quiet strength in the girl's words, unsure of the weight they carried.
After a long moment, the princess spoke up, her tone softer now. "You can rest for now, Chisaka. Tomorrow marks the start of your training."
The cloaked figure pulled away and, without a word, left the room. The princess, too, returned to her quarters, leaving Chisaka alone with her thoughts.
While we stayed in one of the palace's beautiful, spacious rooms, the weight of the day had taken its toll, and we all rested.
A few hours later, when everyone else was still sleeping, I noticed Sheila sitting at the table, writing something. I approached her and informed her that I'd be stepping out for a while. Just as I turned to leave, a knock came at the door.
We gave permission for the person to enter, and it was the maid who had come to call for me. There was a message from the princess, so I followed the maid all the way to the dining room.
The princess was waiting for me there, and as soon as I entered the room, I could see her expression shift, just like before—an unreadable change that only she could master.
The maids quietly exited the room, leaving us alone. The princess motioned for me to sit and immediately asked for Yukiha's report.
I recounted everything—the conversations with the demon, the events in the Golden Harbor, and everything that had happened so far. At the end of my report, I told her the final thing the demon had said to me before he left.
"So, all of them are connected. The theory was true. He meant that the pieces were memories, and the rift is the key to it all. But no one in this world has ever reached the World of Rift. We haven't yet passed through the 88th floor," she said, her voice thoughtful.
I nodded. "But why did he tell me that? My last pieces?"
"The meaning of his words is deep, and he's not easy to understand," She replied. "He could have met me in person to explain everything clearly."
"Can't he use any crows or birds? Or some magic to send a message?" I asked, my curiosity evident.
"He's actually forbidden to enter the Land of Royal due to his past actions. Once you're disgraced in the name of our Family, the Land stops accepting you—it's a curse tied to our contracts. That's why none of his messages would reach here. Fortunately, he can still enter the Golden Harbor. Though it's been a long time since he visited, it seems he gathered a great deal of information."
I finished the report, and after a brief silence, I asked, "Is there anything else I can do for you, Princess?"
She smiled gently and replied, "Are you busy?"
"I was planning on wandering around, but I feel like talking to you is... warm and gentle," I said, my voice softer than I intended.
The princess raised an eyebrow, amused. "Nothing particularly urgent, then. Why don't you hang out with me for a while?"
Her invitation was unexpected, but there was something about the way she said it—her voice so inviting and calm—that made me feel at ease, despite the gravity of the situation.
The princess was deeply interested in us, especially in me and Chisaka. She kept asking about our travels and life up to that point, her curiosity evident in every question.
As the conversation continued, she mentioned her relationship with my grandfather. Apparently, Grandpa served the Land of Royal and had a close friendship with the princess. Since they were such good friends, I couldn't help but ask if Grandpa had any family members.
"Oh, Sajiro Tosaki! He was the only grandson," she replied, a slight smile touching her lips. "You haven't learned about the ranking system yet, so let me explain."
In the army of the Land of Royal, there were captains and vice captains in every division, but there needed to be a commander to lead the entire army, not just one division. The commander's name was Solarine Olivarez, and the vice commander was Rosavele Velmont. But there was one more figure beside the commanders—Sajiro Tosaki, the shadow of the Royal Cops.
The princess explained that recently, the commanders had taken on a particularly difficult mission, so none of them would be returning for weeks.
As the conversation lingered, something seemed to click in the princess's mind. She snapped her fingers, and a book materialized in front of her. I raised an eyebrow, curious. "What's this?" I asked.
"The Dragon Sword Style," she replied, her voice filled with reverence. "The original, one and only copy."
According to the princess, the book had been created by two people. However, just reading it wouldn't be enough to learn the swordsmanship of Kitahara. The authors had performed a secret art, one that could only be activated by Kitahara himself, to ensure the teachings were passed on.
"They entrusted it to me," she said softly. "Why don't you try opening it and see for yourself?"
I hesitated for only a moment before stepping back and opening the book. I scanned the pages, searching for the form I had practiced before. As the princess had said, what I saw was undeniable.
An image of a person appeared, demonstrating the form slowly and repeating it at the end. The technique was brutal—slashes so powerful they could wipe out entire armies in a single strike.
"T-this form... it's ridiculously powerful!" I exclaimed, my heart racing. "This book will help me perfect my forms!"
"There's a reason why they entrusted it to me," the princess said, her tone serious. "But now that the reason is gone, you're the only one I know who's close to Kitahara's potential. Although you're not blood-related, it seems the book responds to you well."
I bowed my head in gratitude. "Thank you for lending me this book."
After our conversation, the princess mentioned she would be taking a walk through the city, something she hadn't done in a while, and dismissed me.
Eager to practice, I quickly turned to the maid who had been nearby, asking her where the training area for swords was. She led me to the place.
I was filled with excitement. It was time to master every form of the sword style I'd been using—Dragon Dance had served me well, but it was time to go deeper, to become stronger.