[“You have your duty to fulfill and Kargryxmor wouldn’t be thrilled to see his descendent in whatever state you were planning to put her into,”] a low, bellowing voice like an old man’s resounded through my head. I looked up, visualizing the [Vellestra Leviathan] as one. ["Furthermore, have you forgotten about your two subordinates? If the young dragoness was able to inflict this much damage on you, then what would happen to the ice wyverns?”]
Hearing him mention the two [Drifting Snow Wyvern], I turned my head back to the area where Asterios took all my fire spells head-on, without trying to avoid it. What stood before me was a trembling ice wyvern whose wings were burnt pitch-black, as if they were turned into coal.
It was holding its wings up like a shield, protecting the other ice wyvern from my machine gun spells. The other one seemed fine, but the absolutely dreadful state the protector’s wings were in and how his body was having trouble standing up made it clear it paid a heavy price for its gallantry. Those wings needed immediate help, if they wished to ever touch the sky again.
… Can’t say I don’t like that. A knight in shining armor is romantic.
[“… Hmm, their situation is quite dire. I understand, great leviathan, however, isn’t only one of us needed? Princess Hestia Atsuko cannot fly due to her age, but she can ride me in her dragonewt form,”] Asterios, the leading wyvern, dismissed the state his two subordinates were in coldly. [“The boy showed too much sympathy for his failed sister and his confidence to face a true dragon’s flames, a girl who shares our lord’s blood, was admirable, but utterly foolish. I’m proud to have seen his determination.”]
T-This-What sorta sicko is this guy?!
I knew I had no right to say this as I was the one who caused it all, but I just caould’t stand the fact this wyvern said all those things towards them. It looked like he was praising the snow wyvern, but he was also completely ignoring how hurt he was. Sure, just like his sister, I didn’t bring the brother close to death, but I still did a lot of damage.
I dunno. It just rubbed me the wrong way, made me feel uncomfortable at hearing those words but what could I do? We were still in a pretty bad situation despite the leviathan having stopped Asterios's attack.
The lizardmen were cowering and screaming like the world was ending, while Saori’s Stamina finally had dropped to zero. She was keeping herself on her legs but her heavy breathing and trembling legs told me enough she couldn’t keep fighting anymore.
She had been pushing herself far too much today, especially with her solo duel against the full Health brother wyvern. I couldn’t expect her to fight any more than this.
However, what was I supposed to do? The only one left to fight with me was Tasianna and she was getting overwhelmed through stats here. Just looking at his stats, his Wisdom alone made it impossible for Tasianna’s spells to do any damage. Intelligence was for magical damage, while Wisdom determined your defenses against them. With such a discrepancy, Tasianna couldn’t participate.
And then there was me. I’d been spamming spells like crazy and I certainly could feel arcane corruption building up in my body. After getting it twice or thrice, I knew the symptoms like a headache and more painful mana circulation. Not to mention, I used up mana at an alarming rate before.
I poured in a ton of mana to make [Imperial Hellfire] work but holy, bloody, effing goodness! Gaaaaaaaaah! It DIDN’T WORK AT ALL. AHHHH, WHY DIDN’T IT WORK?!
… In any case, thinking back at it, it should have worked. I made sure to recite everything in Common and I also did my best to imagine the runes for my magic circle using the proper letters. I did everything I learned from Tasianna and it all fumbled. My spell fizzled!
Urgh, get a grip, Hestia. It’s frustrating but we gotta stop acting like a kid right now. The parallel minds will kick your mental ass, after all.
[“Nonetheless, what is done is done. The law of the strong says that it is fair so I see nothing wrong with the situation. It is a shame but I will not abandon my holy oath for them. I can assure you that they won’t find fault in my actions, great leviathan,”] Asterios said in an aloof manner, completely fine with abandoning his fallen subordinates.
[“Hmm, I see…,”] the leviathan mumbled before retracting the snake back into the ground, closing up the hole before pushing his head into the sky and turning his head aside so his eyes could meet us.
But… At this very moment, strangely, instead of feeling fear, I felt… safe? Like a grandfather looking out for his young grandchild? At the same time, something sweet entered my nose. A scent so fragrant, I would have never expected to smell from this giant creature.
[“If that is the case then what do you have to say, Dragon Princess Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor?”]
< [Young Sunfang Dragon, Hestia Atsuko] true name has been revealed. Individual’s name has changed to[Young Sunfang Dragon, Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor] due to their royal, divine bloodline of the SSS rank dragon, Kargryxmor>
…!!!!!
… So that was my royal name. The one Tasianna had tried to hide from me.
[“Hrmm?”] The leviathan’s quizzical voice questioned my silence.
[“… I’m sorry. Before I answer that, may I ask… Tasianna, listen to this, too.”] Tasianna nodded to my telepathy. [“I am ‘Hestia Atsuko… Kargryxmor.’ I am a hatchling, why am I named as such?”]
[“… So that trigger it.”] Tasianna formed a frown, looking like she understood what was going on. [“Well, it cannot be changed anymore, Lady Hestia. Dragon clans are named after the progenitor of a bloodline, you see, and you are the granddaughter of the Black Tyrant of the Skies, Kargryxmor. Former Emperor of the Dragon Empire, Kargryx. You are dragon princess, acknowledged by the gods through your [Princess] title”]
… I see. I nodded.
[“This isn’t the time, and I also don’t know the name of your mother, Lady Hestia, but if you wish, we may talk about your family and father, the Dragon Emperor, at a latter date.”]
I nodded once again and then turned back to the leviathan. [“I apologize, it was just cleared up. Allow me some time.”]
[“Do not linger on it, hatchling. The patience of that lesser dragonkin is waning.”]
I wanted to be a brat. I wanted to let out a tantrum at this very moment, trying to push away the fact I had a… I had a new family. My last ties to my family on Earth was the fact I didn’t have a last name at this point. Hearing “Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor” felt like all the memories I had of them were just that — memories.
I couldn’t even remember my past surname and first name. The names my Papa and Mama blessed me with were gone, replaced by the ones Saori and the dragons gave me. My heart ached.
… But, now, it wasn’t time for that. Regardless, I was Hestia, and the lizardmen and my team needed me to think.
Girls, [Thought Acceleration] now! We need to think!
My senses slowed down as it started to feel like everything around me was going at 0.5 speed. The leviathan's eyes locked onto mine as I tried to find some sorta clue in his words, but I noticed staring deeply into his navy blue eyes was similar to gazing into the depths of the ocean.
“In your current situation, what would you do?” he said… well, Asterios is about to force me to come with him, and considering his size, he’ll probably be able to, even if he had to carry my dragon body. It would be easier for him in my dragonewt form. He wants this to go out peacefully.
There is also the case of the lizardmen that I needed to help get out of the Belzac forest. I made a promise and I will not break it if I have the choice, however, Asterios was firmly against it. If I continue mentioning it then an "accident" might happen, although I think the leviathan would be able to defend against it.
“In my current situation…”, well I needed to persuade Asterios. My goal is to help the lizardmen and Asterios’ is to take me in peacefully if it was possible. I honestly didn’t want to come with him but what choice do I have in that matter?
I can’t escape nor can I fight back. Continuing fighting would be futile and once I’m down, he’ll just swoop in to pick me with his talons. I’ll be dragged through the skies like a prisoner in that situation. Not to mention what he could do to Tasianna and Saori…
As I continued to mull over my options, the sight of the two defeated wyverns came into my view. The male wyvern with the destroyed wings had finally fallen on the ground, lying there as he panted heavily. The female one went over to cool him down, looking at him with saddened eyes.
Looking at the wings, the webbings were completely gone but the limbs themselves didn’t look that terrible. I mean, they were still coal-black but I could only see a few spots of burnt flesh, as the scales of the ice wyvern seemed to have managed to defend against most of my fire.
It was very unlikely he would actually be able to fly with those damaged wings but… maybe there was a possibility for him to fly again?
Hmmm, can I do it?
[“Asterios!”] I called out.
[“Oh? Princess Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor, are you finally willing to drop your resistance? Oh ho ho ho, if that’s the case then let us be off, swiftly,”] he said with elation.
[“No, but I do believe you wish for me to come with you peacefully, correct? That would make your job easier, right?”] I asked.
[“Hmm? Well, that is quite true, yes. Flying is already hard but having to drag your body with me would be a challenge, especially considering the distance… so, what do you mean with ‘No’?”] his eyes sharpened in suspicion. He saw right through me.
[“Asterios, I wish to bargain,”] I announced. [“You know I made my promise with the lizardmen and hoiw I will not drop it. If you want me to come, then allow me to first fulfill it.”]
Asterios tilted his head for a second before responding, [“That is not a bargain. A bargain would benefit me in some way but that just won’t. I have no time to waste waiting for you to finish that frivolous wish of yours when I can instead drag you through the skies. It might be a trial, but I consider that more beneficial for me than giving you a chance to escape.”]
I hesitated for a moment to gulp down a dry spit but reaffirmed my courage as I knew I had this under control this time. This was negotiable. [“… Well, that’s why I am offering my skills. My ability to heal those two wyverns from their wounds.”]
[“Healing? Those?”] Asterios twisted his neck around to confirm I really was talking about the ice wyverns. [“Princess, you were the one who brought them into that state and now you’re ‘offering’ to heal them to bargain with me? Why, that is rather shameless but also completely irrelevant to me. I won’t entertain your wish.”]
Heilige scheiße, this guy is impossible.
I knew he would call me a hypocrite for even considering healing the wyverns, but it surprised me he was dismissive about the fact. I thought he would have at least considered it if the chance appeared… but I guess that was too naïve.
However, before I could continue, Tasianna blew up at him.
[“How audacious! Lady Hestia is merely offering to fix the results she created so how can you not even consider that! How can you call yourselves a ‘humble servant of the true dragons?!’ You are nothing but a brute!”]
["Hmmm? An insect tries to speak with me? You were given the honor of listening to my conversation with Princess Hestia Atsuko so why must you speak up? You are interfering, can you not see?"] the pompous asshat responded.
This bastard…
Gritting my teeth and scratching the ground in frustration. I was ready to claw his face at this point for insulting my friends like this, insinuating they weren’t people in his eyes. He probably was thinking anything not related to dragons was beneath him, an arrogant mindset that made it hard for me to think of a measure.
[“You accept me as your dragon princess, no?”] I glared at him, causing Asterios to turn silent for a moment. It looked like going that route worked. [“If you aren’t my executors, but my escorts, then Kargrxymor looks at me as his kin. In that case, we do not have to be enemies anymore. I now have a responsibility to correct my mistakes by taking care of them. But, in exchange, help me and I will come with your willingly.”]
I had to look at it positively. Kargrxymor, as Aurena’s subordinate, didn’t want me to die. The wyverns he sent to me were my escorts, but I killed them, leading to him sending in stronger ones. These could pacify me if I were to be belligerent, again. He did not want me to die, I had to just trust the fact he blessed me wasn’t a mistake.
[“Hmmmm, she has a point, wyvern.”] Thankfully, the leviathan agreed with me. [“Time is waning. Allow the dragoness to heal your subordinates,”]
[“… I honestly cannot agree to that, great ocean dragon. I believe I requested your help to ensure the safe escort of the Princess? Excuse my rudeness, but may I ask why you are so supportive of them now?”] the wyvern asked with slight annoyance, hiding most of it behind a veil of formal speech.
[“As we have agreed upon, I shall aid you with it, but isn’t our agreement exactly what the girl would consider a ‘promise’? Why value our agreement so much if you cannot agree to have the girl fulfill hers? Within the vicinity of this swamp, no one will escape my tentacles now that I am awake once again,”] the leviathan stated. [“Allow her to heal your companions, appease me, and I will ensure that she will not escape you north of this forest.”]
With a low growl, Asterios finally caved in and accepted my proposal, allowing me to heal his subordinates in return for helping the lizardmen escape Belzac forest. Walking towards the snow wyverns, the intense smell of burnt scales and flesh was clear to the nose. Their stares felt suffocating.
Healing the wings themselves wasn’t as hard as I thought. Scratch off the burnt scales and use [Major Heal] to regenerate any lost flesh and regrow new scales in place. The webbing for his wings took a bit longer to heal as it was like trying to make somebody’s whole body regrow skin. The membrane had to be strong and flexible enough as they were important for flying.
Once I was finished with that, I headed over to his sister, the wyvern I blasted with my [Lightning Bolt]. A couple of heals and [Cure] later, the wyvern regained all her Health back before spreading her wings around full with energy. She even nuzzled her face against mine as if we had just become friends or something, only for her brother to smack her on the head.
… Well, glad there isn’t bad blood, despite how much I deserved it. Dammit, I really should be less belligerent. I’m an idol, not a killer.
Meanwhile, it seemed Tasianna and Saori both calmed the lizardmen down as they came over to thank me.
["No, please, don't. I was the reason they even chased us this far and, ergo, that meant it was my responsibility they nearly killed you all. I should be the one to apologize instead of accepting your thanks,"] I told the lizardmen with a frown.
“Don’t be too harsh on yourself, little lady. It all worked out in the end, right? You shouldn’t let it annoy you that much…,” Caszcur responded somberly.
“Yes, Casczur is right, fair-scaled one. You’re gonna help us out like you promise so you still deserve our thanks. You fought for us there, we all know that," Aksmias answered with a wry smile.
“Little one, I’m sorry. I-I was just overwhelmed by your sudden form…I knew it, but you still frightened me. It seems I haven’t repaid you once yet while always causing you grief. I couldn't become your follower and I even rejected you in my heart for a moment," Apsala admitted, crestfallen. "I have sinned too much. I honestly should cut my tail for everything I’ve done, especially now as it has come to the point that I won’t have a chance anymore.”
[“… Do not say that, Apsala. We might be leaving now but that does not mean we will not meet one day, again,”] Saori said to reassure the dejected lizardmen. [“Hestia’s personal goals will eventually bring us to the levianewts, so we will meet again.”]
“I planned to aid you in this but it seems I won't get the chance anymore," said Tasianna. "Please remember this phrase 'Dahel saehla tuilloso eir Aifli Tasianna Marina Silverpond'. This elvish roughly translates into 'We have come with the blessing of the fairy Tasianna Marina Silverpond'. You might meet people who do not know me, but they will not treat you discourteously if they hear my family name 'Silverpond'."
Wait, is Tasianna's adoptive family a bigshot?! Well, she did tell me they had a history of serving the royal family of the fairies but I didn't think their position was that high.
“Thank you, Tasianna. Whether it was your tea, your hospitality, or even your help just now. It makes me want to laugh at how terrible our first meeting was, hahaha,” Caszcur laughed.
“Hehe, I’m also glad that Lady Hestia was able to heal that wound. It would have made me feel saddened if it was still there because of me,” Tasianna agreed, reminding us that she shot an [Ice Spike] into Caszcur’s hand.
After allowing ourselves some rest after the massive headache with the wyverns, Asterios told us we could move now that the snow wyverns were fine, again. The wyverns planned to have us on their backs as they transported us through the skies. Considering we had around 50 lizardmen, it was a blessing Asterios was pretty large.
As we were sorting the lizardmen to their respective wyvern, another headache suddenly came up.
[“Those two will stay. They were not part of your promise,”] Asterios incredulously stated.
["What?! What is this supposed to mean, huh? First, you insult them, calling them lesser beings, and now you won't even allow them to come with me? They are my friends and retainers, Asterios!"] I spoke back to the intimidating wyvern, anger seeping out.
[“Retainers? Hmph, Princess Hestia Atsuko, you do require an entourage, considering you are an important personage but a wolf and insect?”] Asterios scoffed at Saori and Tasianna for being my “retainers,” before directing my attention to the two individuals behind me. [“Two B ranks should be enough to defend you from most threats. Take them and throw your current ones away.”]
What?!
[“What is this bullshit! You can’t expect me to do that! Do you even comprehend how awkward that would be? I nearly killed them over a misunderstanding and accident. I don’t even know their names,”] I talked back, blood boiling once again ‘cause of this retarded lizard.
[“Give them a name, then. That honor is usually reserved for our priests and priestesses but no better is the honor when a true dragon grants you a name. Ahh, I adore my name but my jealousy grows knowing you will name my two subordinates,”] Asterios said creepily. ["Besides, the law of the strong demands them to not hold a grudge against their opponent. They should be grateful that you even healed them in the first place."]
Fuck this, I’ll actually claw his face now!
As I was about to ignite a flame, the leviathan spoke, [“Enough of this prattle, wyvern. Give her, her old followers if that is what will make her cooperative.”]
A white snake emerged from the ground, eyeing Asterios in a threatening manner. It seemed even he understood how stupid this wyvern was. Still, in the end, the lightning wyvern demanded I also take the two wyverns in as my retainers, still insisting they were better companions than my two friends.
Well, with those two, our party has finally reached five people… Although, four girls, one boy? A bit one-sided, no?
Ignoring the idiot lizard, we had a bit of free time until all the lizardmen boarded the wyverns, so we took this chance to speak with the leviathan.
[“Mister Leviathan?”] I called out for the massive monster.
[“Call me ‘Vanialasma.’ That is the name I received from the people of Caedhul,”] he responded back. [“I am listening.”]
Caedhul was the capital of Plesia’s faith, and also home for levianewts, nagas, and merfolk, according to Tasianna.
[“I just… I just wanted to thank you for everything you’ve done for us, Mister Vanialasma,”] I said earnestly.
[“We were in a precarious situation and worse could have happened if you had not interfered. For that, you have my deepest gratitude,”] Saori bowed deeply out of respect.
[“Yes, I do not know what I would have done if I were separated from Princess Hestia. Thank you so very much, great leviathan. May Depth Goddess bless the water you swim in,”] Tasianna gave her gratitude in prayer.
[“Ohhohoho, a fellow Depth Goddess worshipper? That pleases me greatly. I have not left these swamps in years because of my slumber. You have my thanks, young fairy, for granting me a blessing from our righteous lady of the depths,”] the leviathan said joyfully. [“I would love to say that I did everything for you in the name of Goddess Plesia but that would be a lie, and she would condemn such rude behaviors.”]
["The Goddess of Order, Honor, and Traditions. While she may not like lies, she condemns rule-breaking the most,"] Tasianna further added, enthusiastic as she hit it off with the massive being.
They really are hitting it off. Are all religious people like this in this world?
[“Pardon, but could you explain what you meant by that?”] Saori asked. [“I know it is rude to question our benefactor, but it does make me wonder why you would support us despite not knowing us.”]
The leviathan suddenly turned silent before giving what sounded like a snicker, booming the surrounding with a low intimidating growl, [“True, I apologize for not explaining sooner. You see, a few days ago, my senses awoke me from my slumber after my tentacles found somebody. I remember that one of them did attack you, young dragoness. For that, I apologize. You smelled… delectable, and without my snake heads, I would destroy the surroundings if I were to hunt properly.”]
D-Delectable?! Errrk! I shuddered, finding the thought of being eaten a bit unnerving. That did remind me of the one time he jumped out into the air to eat some otthas. Trees, the vegetation, and probably many more things were destroyed in that area.
[“It’s ok, I didn’t die and I believe I paid it back by destroying its eye… although, it just regenerated it back instantly,”] I sighed with slight disappointment.
Ever since I met that snake, I’ve only experienced losses. I’ve lost against the snake, the wyverns, but I at least won the negotiation with Asterios in the end. Still, with my fucked up custom spell, I felt like I wasn’t strong enough. It felt bad losing, leaving me with only one thought:
I need to evolve.
[“Hahaha, that is good to hear,”] the leviathan cackled with a wide smile. [“Now… I presume you three cannot see my status board, correct?”]
We nodded. We didn’t know his name, nor his stats. All we knew was his description. Everything was blocked behind a fat [Information is blocked].
["That means my skills are still working properly. I detest having my status board known to others, so I am glad that my skills are helping me protect my secret,”] the leviathan nodded for a moment before continuing. [“What I want to tell you is this.”]
Through his [Telepathy], some sort of information came rushing right into our minds.
[“Young garm, did you know that this title once belonged to your bloodline? The mighty S-rank [Three-Eyed Fenrir] Belzac was once the ruler of this forest and after his death, his bloodline inherited this strength.”] The leviathan eyed Saori. [“However, a few years ago, that title was suddenly granted to me, awakening me from that slumber. I was acquainted with that [Fenrir], who I suppose is your great-grandfather. I was surprised that such a prideful monster like him was taken down.”]
[“Wait, that [Fenrir] had that title before you? Was he that much stronger than you?!”] I asked.
["Hahaha, I must disappoint you but no. I am many, many, many centuries his senior. I did not receive that title before his death because I never vied for it, for I was a foreigner of these woods. My home is the oceans of Plesia and I am simply living here to ensure I could sleep before my evolution into an S rank. It would seem like the title has finally accepted me as a denizen of Belzac forest.”]
In other words, this place was like a summer vacation home for him.
After he reminisced on his age, he continued with our original topic, [“I met your mother, young garm.”]
[“… Do you mean my garm mother? You met her?”] Saori hesitantly responded. [“Sorry, I actually do not know her much. She died after I was born… in an accident.”]
‘In an accident,’ yeah… thank you, Saori.
[“I see… a shame. When I met her, I wanted to aid her but she suddenly wandered away from me. A shame but seeing as she was able to give birth to you, then I should not be worried about Belzac’s lineage. You have grown into a fine wolf, and you make your title [Belzac’s Successor] proud,”] he said.
[“So that was the real reason you helped us… I guess your family saved us three from being separated, right Saori?”] I joked with Saori but she didn’t seem to have realized it, mulling about something.
[“No, that is one reason but not the main one,”] the leviathan once again moved his face closer to me, inspecting me with his giant eyeball. [“The main reason is you, young dragoness.”]
Flinching backward, I said “me?” which seemed to be the reaction the leviathan wanted from me. [“I can see your blessings. The light that surrounds you and your ability to heal people from such a young age made me understand you are a reincarnator of the Goddess of Light. She has brought you to our world for a reason.”]
I gulped.
[“[Otherworldly Reincarnator] and the blessing from Aurena and Kargryxmor. Anybody can see that the gods are planning something, although it seems that wyvern over there hasn’t figured it out yet. Hmph, foolhardy,”] the leviathan scoffed. [“My goddess Plesia is the head Goddess of all six origin god and if somebody like her was willing to allow another [Otherworldly Reincarnator] to enter this world, then as her servant I must make an effort to help.”]
Huh, I already had a good impression on her ‘cause of Tasianna but now it got better. Plesia rocks!
[“Wait, excuse me but could you repeat that? ‘Another [Otherworldly Reincarnator]?' There has been more instances just like the both of us?"] Saori pointed out, causing me to realize what she meant.
["Yes, but that is something of the past. I've met that person and greatness has found them in their lifespan. However…"] the leviathan shook his head. [“It seems your wyvern escorts’ patience is waning, so our talks must end. Ask your fairy or look through books for that information. Before I go, I would like to tell you two something. Consider it… a welcome gift to Peolynca and her beauty.”]
Hearing that, Saori and I began listening intently to what he had to say.
["To the young garm, search for Belzac.”]
[“Search for him? But, he is dead,”] Saori responded.
[“Yes, that he is, but you will understand once the time comes. Become stronger, find Belzac, and once you have his respect, find me. I hold onto your birthright, and while I wish to grant it back to you, you must prove yourself, otherwise the title will not acknowledge you. If you wish to rule this forest, you will need it.”]
[“… I understand.”] Saori didn’t seem like she was too thrilled about hearing this information. Considering she hadn’t accepted her fenrir heritage, this was expected.
Vanialasma then focused his eye on me. [“For you, young dragon princess of the dragon empire, Kargryx, find your family. Reunite with them.”]
[“Urk, what?!”] Just like Saori, this leviathan was bringing family into this, our monster families!
[“You are only a hatchling who hasn't even learned how to control her draconic instincts yet. Listen well, for the Tyrant’s blood is inside you, craving for blood and domination. You cannot learn how to control that power without the help of your family, as it requires a certain technique.”]
Power? Blood? Wait, is he talking about [Battle Frenzy]? That’s the only thing I can think of.
[“This is my gift to you, Dragon Princess — a warning. If the two of you wish to become stronger, stronger than this lesser dragonkin, then you must accept your new selves. Evolution is a monster’s greatest strength, but do not reject your racial and bloodline gifts.”]
Stopping there, the leviathan jerked his head back before roaring out, “Mooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrrhhhhh!” before diving back into the swamp. A geyser of water and mud burst into the air, showering us like rainfall as the the ground we stood on quaked.
[“I wish you good travels, Hestia, Saori, and Tasianna. May the Origin Gods guide you to whatever your heart desires. Remember my words, young garm, the next time we meet it will be when I have evolved into an S rank, so gain power and challenge me to regain what was rightfully yours,”] with those parting words, the leviathan disappeared into the depths of the swamp.
As I quickly worked through the information the leviathan gave us, having my parallel minds sort everything for easier reference in the future, I noticed my two companions were still staring blankly at where the leviathan once was.
[“Hey, guys? You two ok?”] I asked, slightly worried.
[“Huh? Oh yeah, sorry, Hestia. That was… a lot to process,”] Saori said exasperatedly, but I couldn’t help but agree. [“That was… too much information for me. Far too much and it is giving me a slight headache.”]
[“I’m also alright, Lady Hestia. I was in wonderment really. Witnessing a friendly leviathan is supposedly hard. They were extremely territorial. I only wish I could’ve asked him a few questions but, alas, I didn’t want to interrupt your conversation,”] Tasianna admitted with a playful smile.
[“Well, we have to meet the lizardmen again anyways, so you can always ask him about the details later on when we visit the levianewts, right, Saori?”] I turned to my first friend in this world, after seeing Tasianna say “I can’t wait.”
[“Huh? Meet the leviathan, huh? Well, I guess it would interest me also from a historian’s perspective,”] she said a bit absent-mindedly.
She worries about it, too, huh? Well, I can’t help but agree. ‘Find my dragon family,’ huh?
While in deep thought, I noticecd Astalos coming closer to me, carrying the lizardmen on his back. [“Princess Hestia Atsuko, you have spoken with the ocean dragon, yes? Now that he has left, I advise that we move out as soon as possible. It will still take me the whole day today to reach elven territory, so let us be off now,”]
Knowing I could talk about it to Saori later on, I decided to put it aside for now to focus on bringing the lizardmen out of the forest. As everybody slowly climbed onto the wyvern’s back, I noticed the wyverns were pouring in mana into their wings through my senses.
Wanting to learn how to fly, I asked Asterios, [“Flying, Princess? Hmm, it will still take a while until your wings grow large enough to carry your whole body. At your age, you will need to use mana to carry your body. Once we are in Wyvern Peaks, let your two new retainers take care of you.”]
Two new retainers, huh? I guess he was talking about the two snow wyverns. It’s a shame that they didn’t have [Telepathy], otherwise we could talk about it… but I think it’s better this way. I haven’t apologized yet and I also feel too awkward to do so.
Once everybody was on board, the wyverns began flapping their wings after casting wind magic to help them take off. The burst of powerful winds gave the wyverns the necessary oomph to catapult their bodies upward despite how many people they had to carry right now.
Being up in the sky again was quite the experience. Instead of feeling like I was free when I flew, it felt more as if I was on an airplane, cruising through the skies on my way to Japan or Germany during vacation time.
As Asterios said, it took until the evening for the wyverns to make it past the mountain pass connecting Belzac forest with the elven kingdom, Saelarial. Watching the sea of trees just slide pass me in a single day dis make me envious. Flying was so much faster.
After exiting the mountain pass, we chose a spot close to an elven settlement Tasianna knew about and let the lizardmen off. Saying our tearful goodbyes, especially when I had to do it with the kids, made me feel nauseous. I wanted to give the kids an idol concert but until we met again, that promise would be left unfulfilled.
It just felt sad… but what could I do? They were finally out of that devil’s hole so I should, instead of feeling sad, be happy for them that they didn’t have to suffer anymore. They were finally so close to reaching their destination.
It might have been a depressing goodbye, but I could also see the elation and relief in their faces. They were sick and tired of the forest so it made sense they felt like that.
After giving them all their belongings back, including some of our rations to help them for a few days, we parted. With that taken care of, Saori, Tasianna, and I departed with the wyverns towards the south, intending to reach Wyvern Peaks which was among the mountain range of Avitor Peaks.
Goal: Saelarial = X
New goal: Aviator Peaks.
“General, are you sure about what that scout told you?”
"Yes, my King! The scouts spoke with the indigenous kobold tribes and found out that the wyverns were flying to the north!”
"Huh, that should make it easy for us. Turn our aims up north and let no one enter the skyspace of these mountain ranges without my permission."
“Permission to fire at will?”
“Shoot those cannons when you see them. We’re gonna hunt us some wyverns.”
AbyssRaven One part of an adventurer is also the fact your goals might change mid-way. In this case, Hestia and co. have learned to actually get initiative, they had to become even stronger than before. In a world with things like that A rank leviathan, they were still mere ants. It seems like it is about time to evolve, no? Just one more level for Hestia to evolve.
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Thank you for reading this chapter.
[“You have your duty to fulfill and Kargryxmor wouldn’t be thrilled to see his descendent in whatever state you were planning to put her into,”] a low, bellowing voice like an old man’s resounded through my head. I looked up, visualizing the [Vellestra Leviathan] as one. ["Furthermore, have you forgotten about your two subordinates? If the young dragoness was able to inflict this much damage on you, then what would happen to the ice wyverns?”]
Hearing him mention the two [Drifting Snow Wyvern], I turned my head back to the area where Asterios took all my fire spells head-on, without trying to avoid it. What stood before me was a trembling ice wyvern whose wings were burnt pitch-black, as if they were turned into coal.
It was holding its wings up like a shield, protecting the other ice wyvern from my machine gun spells. The other one seemed fine, but the absolutely dreadful state the protector’s wings were in and how his body was having trouble standing up made it clear it paid a heavy price for its gallantry. Those wings needed immediate help, if they wished to ever touch the sky again.
… Can’t say I don’t like that. A knight in shining armor is romantic.
[“… Hmm, their situation is quite dire. I understand, great leviathan, however, isn’t only one of us needed? Princess Hestia Atsuko cannot fly due to her age, but she can ride me in her dragonewt form,”] Asterios, the leading wyvern, dismissed the state his two subordinates were in coldly. [“The boy showed too much sympathy for his failed sister and his confidence to face a true dragon’s flames, a girl who shares our lord’s blood, was admirable, but utterly foolish. I’m proud to have seen his determination.”]
T-This-What sorta sicko is this guy?!
I knew I had no right to say this as I was the one who caused it all, but I just caould’t stand the fact this wyvern said all those things towards them. It looked like he was praising the snow wyvern, but he was also completely ignoring how hurt he was. Sure, just like his sister, I didn’t bring the brother close to death, but I still did a lot of damage.
I dunno. It just rubbed me the wrong way, made me feel uncomfortable at hearing those words but what could I do? We were still in a pretty bad situation despite the leviathan having stopped Asterios's attack.
The lizardmen were cowering and screaming like the world was ending, while Saori’s Stamina finally had dropped to zero. She was keeping herself on her legs but her heavy breathing and trembling legs told me enough she couldn’t keep fighting anymore.
She had been pushing herself far too much today, especially with her solo duel against the full Health brother wyvern. I couldn’t expect her to fight any more than this.
However, what was I supposed to do? The only one left to fight with me was Tasianna and she was getting overwhelmed through stats here. Just looking at his stats, his Wisdom alone made it impossible for Tasianna’s spells to do any damage. Intelligence was for magical damage, while Wisdom determined your defenses against them. With such a discrepancy, Tasianna couldn’t participate.
And then there was me. I’d been spamming spells like crazy and I certainly could feel arcane corruption building up in my body. After getting it twice or thrice, I knew the symptoms like a headache and more painful mana circulation. Not to mention, I used up mana at an alarming rate before.
I poured in a ton of mana to make [Imperial Hellfire] work but holy, bloody, effing goodness! Gaaaaaaaaah! It DIDN’T WORK AT ALL. AHHHH, WHY DIDN’T IT WORK?!
… In any case, thinking back at it, it should have worked. I made sure to recite everything in Common and I also did my best to imagine the runes for my magic circle using the proper letters. I did everything I learned from Tasianna and it all fumbled. My spell fizzled!
Urgh, get a grip, Hestia. It’s frustrating but we gotta stop acting like a kid right now. The parallel minds will kick your mental ass, after all.
[“Nonetheless, what is done is done. The law of the strong says that it is fair so I see nothing wrong with the situation. It is a shame but I will not abandon my holy oath for them. I can assure you that they won’t find fault in my actions, great leviathan,”] Asterios said in an aloof manner, completely fine with abandoning his fallen subordinates.
[“Hmm, I see…,”] the leviathan mumbled before retracting the snake back into the ground, closing up the hole before pushing his head into the sky and turning his head aside so his eyes could meet us.
But… At this very moment, strangely, instead of feeling fear, I felt… safe? Like a grandfather looking out for his young grandchild? At the same time, something sweet entered my nose. A scent so fragrant, I would have never expected to smell from this giant creature.
[“If that is the case then what do you have to say, Dragon Princess Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor?”]
< [Young Sunfang Dragon, Hestia Atsuko] true name has been revealed. Individual’s name has changed to[Young Sunfang Dragon, Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor] due to their royal, divine bloodline of the SSS rank dragon, Kargryxmor>
…!!!!!
… So that was my royal name. The one Tasianna had tried to hide from me.
[“Hrmm?”] The leviathan’s quizzical voice questioned my silence.
[“… I’m sorry. Before I answer that, may I ask… Tasianna, listen to this, too.”] Tasianna nodded to my telepathy. [“I am ‘Hestia Atsuko… Kargryxmor.’ I am a hatchling, why am I named as such?”]
[“… So that trigger it.”] Tasianna formed a frown, looking like she understood what was going on. [“Well, it cannot be changed anymore, Lady Hestia. Dragon clans are named after the progenitor of a bloodline, you see, and you are the granddaughter of the Black Tyrant of the Skies, Kargryxmor. Former Emperor of the Dragon Empire, Kargryx. You are dragon princess, acknowledged by the gods through your [Princess] title”]
… I see. I nodded.
[“This isn’t the time, and I also don’t know the name of your mother, Lady Hestia, but if you wish, we may talk about your family and father, the Dragon Emperor, at a latter date.”]
I nodded once again and then turned back to the leviathan. [“I apologize, it was just cleared up. Allow me some time.”]
[“Do not linger on it, hatchling. The patience of that lesser dragonkin is waning.”]
I wanted to be a brat. I wanted to let out a tantrum at this very moment, trying to push away the fact I had a… I had a new family. My last ties to my family on Earth was the fact I didn’t have a last name at this point. Hearing “Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor” felt like all the memories I had of them were just that — memories.
I couldn’t even remember my past surname and first name. The names my Papa and Mama blessed me with were gone, replaced by the ones Saori and the dragons gave me. My heart ached.
… But, now, it wasn’t time for that. Regardless, I was Hestia, and the lizardmen and my team needed me to think.
Girls, [Thought Acceleration] now! We need to think!
My senses slowed down as it started to feel like everything around me was going at 0.5 speed. The leviathan's eyes locked onto mine as I tried to find some sorta clue in his words, but I noticed staring deeply into his navy blue eyes was similar to gazing into the depths of the ocean.
“In your current situation, what would you do?” he said… well, Asterios is about to force me to come with him, and considering his size, he’ll probably be able to, even if he had to carry my dragon body. It would be easier for him in my dragonewt form. He wants this to go out peacefully.
There is also the case of the lizardmen that I needed to help get out of the Belzac forest. I made a promise and I will not break it if I have the choice, however, Asterios was firmly against it. If I continue mentioning it then an "accident" might happen, although I think the leviathan would be able to defend against it.
“In my current situation…”, well I needed to persuade Asterios. My goal is to help the lizardmen and Asterios’ is to take me in peacefully if it was possible. I honestly didn’t want to come with him but what choice do I have in that matter?
I can’t escape nor can I fight back. Continuing fighting would be futile and once I’m down, he’ll just swoop in to pick me with his talons. I’ll be dragged through the skies like a prisoner in that situation. Not to mention what he could do to Tasianna and Saori…
As I continued to mull over my options, the sight of the two defeated wyverns came into my view. The male wyvern with the destroyed wings had finally fallen on the ground, lying there as he panted heavily. The female one went over to cool him down, looking at him with saddened eyes.
Looking at the wings, the webbings were completely gone but the limbs themselves didn’t look that terrible. I mean, they were still coal-black but I could only see a few spots of burnt flesh, as the scales of the ice wyvern seemed to have managed to defend against most of my fire.
It was very unlikely he would actually be able to fly with those damaged wings but… maybe there was a possibility for him to fly again?
Hmmm, can I do it?
[“Asterios!”] I called out.
[“Oh? Princess Hestia Atsuko Kargryxmor, are you finally willing to drop your resistance? Oh ho ho ho, if that’s the case then let us be off, swiftly,”] he said with elation.
[“No, but I do believe you wish for me to come with you peacefully, correct? That would make your job easier, right?”] I asked.
[“Hmm? Well, that is quite true, yes. Flying is already hard but having to drag your body with me would be a challenge, especially considering the distance… so, what do you mean with ‘No’?”] his eyes sharpened in suspicion. He saw right through me.
[“Asterios, I wish to bargain,”] I announced. [“You know I made my promise with the lizardmen and hoiw I will not drop it. If you want me to come, then allow me to first fulfill it.”]
Asterios tilted his head for a second before responding, [“That is not a bargain. A bargain would benefit me in some way but that just won’t. I have no time to waste waiting for you to finish that frivolous wish of yours when I can instead drag you through the skies. It might be a trial, but I consider that more beneficial for me than giving you a chance to escape.”]
I hesitated for a moment to gulp down a dry spit but reaffirmed my courage as I knew I had this under control this time. This was negotiable. [“… Well, that’s why I am offering my skills. My ability to heal those two wyverns from their wounds.”]
[“Healing? Those?”] Asterios twisted his neck around to confirm I really was talking about the ice wyverns. [“Princess, you were the one who brought them into that state and now you’re ‘offering’ to heal them to bargain with me? Why, that is rather shameless but also completely irrelevant to me. I won’t entertain your wish.”]
Heilige scheiße, this guy is impossible.
I knew he would call me a hypocrite for even considering healing the wyverns, but it surprised me he was dismissive about the fact. I thought he would have at least considered it if the chance appeared… but I guess that was too naïve.
However, before I could continue, Tasianna blew up at him.
[“How audacious! Lady Hestia is merely offering to fix the results she created so how can you not even consider that! How can you call yourselves a ‘humble servant of the true dragons?!’ You are nothing but a brute!”]
["Hmmm? An insect tries to speak with me? You were given the honor of listening to my conversation with Princess Hestia Atsuko so why must you speak up? You are interfering, can you not see?"] the pompous asshat responded.
This bastard…
Gritting my teeth and scratching the ground in frustration. I was ready to claw his face at this point for insulting my friends like this, insinuating they weren’t people in his eyes. He probably was thinking anything not related to dragons was beneath him, an arrogant mindset that made it hard for me to think of a measure.
[“You accept me as your dragon princess, no?”] I glared at him, causing Asterios to turn silent for a moment. It looked like going that route worked. [“If you aren’t my executors, but my escorts, then Kargrxymor looks at me as his kin. In that case, we do not have to be enemies anymore. I now have a responsibility to correct my mistakes by taking care of them. But, in exchange, help me and I will come with your willingly.”]
I had to look at it positively. Kargrxymor, as Aurena’s subordinate, didn’t want me to die. The wyverns he sent to me were my escorts, but I killed them, leading to him sending in stronger ones. These could pacify me if I were to be belligerent, again. He did not want me to die, I had to just trust the fact he blessed me wasn’t a mistake.
[“Hmmmm, she has a point, wyvern.”] Thankfully, the leviathan agreed with me. [“Time is waning. Allow the dragoness to heal your subordinates,”]
[“… I honestly cannot agree to that, great ocean dragon. I believe I requested your help to ensure the safe escort of the Princess? Excuse my rudeness, but may I ask why you are so supportive of them now?”] the wyvern asked with slight annoyance, hiding most of it behind a veil of formal speech.
[“As we have agreed upon, I shall aid you with it, but isn’t our agreement exactly what the girl would consider a ‘promise’? Why value our agreement so much if you cannot agree to have the girl fulfill hers? Within the vicinity of this swamp, no one will escape my tentacles now that I am awake once again,”] the leviathan stated. [“Allow her to heal your companions, appease me, and I will ensure that she will not escape you north of this forest.”]
With a low growl, Asterios finally caved in and accepted my proposal, allowing me to heal his subordinates in return for helping the lizardmen escape Belzac forest. Walking towards the snow wyverns, the intense smell of burnt scales and flesh was clear to the nose. Their stares felt suffocating.
Healing the wings themselves wasn’t as hard as I thought. Scratch off the burnt scales and use [Major Heal] to regenerate any lost flesh and regrow new scales in place. The webbing for his wings took a bit longer to heal as it was like trying to make somebody’s whole body regrow skin. The membrane had to be strong and flexible enough as they were important for flying.
Once I was finished with that, I headed over to his sister, the wyvern I blasted with my [Lightning Bolt]. A couple of heals and [Cure] later, the wyvern regained all her Health back before spreading her wings around full with energy. She even nuzzled her face against mine as if we had just become friends or something, only for her brother to smack her on the head.
… Well, glad there isn’t bad blood, despite how much I deserved it. Dammit, I really should be less belligerent. I’m an idol, not a killer.
Meanwhile, it seemed Tasianna and Saori both calmed the lizardmen down as they came over to thank me.
["No, please, don't. I was the reason they even chased us this far and, ergo, that meant it was my responsibility they nearly killed you all. I should be the one to apologize instead of accepting your thanks,"] I told the lizardmen with a frown.
“Don’t be too harsh on yourself, little lady. It all worked out in the end, right? You shouldn’t let it annoy you that much…,” Caszcur responded somberly.
“Yes, Casczur is right, fair-scaled one. You’re gonna help us out like you promise so you still deserve our thanks. You fought for us there, we all know that," Aksmias answered with a wry smile.
“Little one, I’m sorry. I-I was just overwhelmed by your sudden form…I knew it, but you still frightened me. It seems I haven’t repaid you once yet while always causing you grief. I couldn't become your follower and I even rejected you in my heart for a moment," Apsala admitted, crestfallen. "I have sinned too much. I honestly should cut my tail for everything I’ve done, especially now as it has come to the point that I won’t have a chance anymore.”
[“… Do not say that, Apsala. We might be leaving now but that does not mean we will not meet one day, again,”] Saori said to reassure the dejected lizardmen. [“Hestia’s personal goals will eventually bring us to the levianewts, so we will meet again.”]
“I planned to aid you in this but it seems I won't get the chance anymore," said Tasianna. "Please remember this phrase 'Dahel saehla tuilloso eir Aifli Tasianna Marina Silverpond'. This elvish roughly translates into 'We have come with the blessing of the fairy Tasianna Marina Silverpond'. You might meet people who do not know me, but they will not treat you discourteously if they hear my family name 'Silverpond'."
Wait, is Tasianna's adoptive family a bigshot?! Well, she did tell me they had a history of serving the royal family of the fairies but I didn't think their position was that high.
“Thank you, Tasianna. Whether it was your tea, your hospitality, or even your help just now. It makes me want to laugh at how terrible our first meeting was, hahaha,” Caszcur laughed.
“Hehe, I’m also glad that Lady Hestia was able to heal that wound. It would have made me feel saddened if it was still there because of me,” Tasianna agreed, reminding us that she shot an [Ice Spike] into Caszcur’s hand.
After allowing ourselves some rest after the massive headache with the wyverns, Asterios told us we could move now that the snow wyverns were fine, again. The wyverns planned to have us on their backs as they transported us through the skies. Considering we had around 50 lizardmen, it was a blessing Asterios was pretty large.
As we were sorting the lizardmen to their respective wyvern, another headache suddenly came up.
[“Those two will stay. They were not part of your promise,”] Asterios incredulously stated.
["What?! What is this supposed to mean, huh? First, you insult them, calling them lesser beings, and now you won't even allow them to come with me? They are my friends and retainers, Asterios!"] I spoke back to the intimidating wyvern, anger seeping out.
[“Retainers? Hmph, Princess Hestia Atsuko, you do require an entourage, considering you are an important personage but a wolf and insect?”] Asterios scoffed at Saori and Tasianna for being my “retainers,” before directing my attention to the two individuals behind me. [“Two B ranks should be enough to defend you from most threats. Take them and throw your current ones away.”]
What?!
[“What is this bullshit! You can’t expect me to do that! Do you even comprehend how awkward that would be? I nearly killed them over a misunderstanding and accident. I don’t even know their names,”] I talked back, blood boiling once again ‘cause of this retarded lizard.
[“Give them a name, then. That honor is usually reserved for our priests and priestesses but no better is the honor when a true dragon grants you a name. Ahh, I adore my name but my jealousy grows knowing you will name my two subordinates,”] Asterios said creepily. ["Besides, the law of the strong demands them to not hold a grudge against their opponent. They should be grateful that you even healed them in the first place."]
Fuck this, I’ll actually claw his face now!
As I was about to ignite a flame, the leviathan spoke, [“Enough of this prattle, wyvern. Give her, her old followers if that is what will make her cooperative.”]
A white snake emerged from the ground, eyeing Asterios in a threatening manner. It seemed even he understood how stupid this wyvern was. Still, in the end, the lightning wyvern demanded I also take the two wyverns in as my retainers, still insisting they were better companions than my two friends.
Well, with those two, our party has finally reached five people… Although, four girls, one boy? A bit one-sided, no?
Ignoring the idiot lizard, we had a bit of free time until all the lizardmen boarded the wyverns, so we took this chance to speak with the leviathan.
[“Mister Leviathan?”] I called out for the massive monster.
[“Call me ‘Vanialasma.’ That is the name I received from the people of Caedhul,”] he responded back. [“I am listening.”]
Caedhul was the capital of Plesia’s faith, and also home for levianewts, nagas, and merfolk, according to Tasianna.
[“I just… I just wanted to thank you for everything you’ve done for us, Mister Vanialasma,”] I said earnestly.
[“We were in a precarious situation and worse could have happened if you had not interfered. For that, you have my deepest gratitude,”] Saori bowed deeply out of respect.
[“Yes, I do not know what I would have done if I were separated from Princess Hestia. Thank you so very much, great leviathan. May Depth Goddess bless the water you swim in,”] Tasianna gave her gratitude in prayer.
[“Ohhohoho, a fellow Depth Goddess worshipper? That pleases me greatly. I have not left these swamps in years because of my slumber. You have my thanks, young fairy, for granting me a blessing from our righteous lady of the depths,”] the leviathan said joyfully. [“I would love to say that I did everything for you in the name of Goddess Plesia but that would be a lie, and she would condemn such rude behaviors.”]
["The Goddess of Order, Honor, and Traditions. While she may not like lies, she condemns rule-breaking the most,"] Tasianna further added, enthusiastic as she hit it off with the massive being.
They really are hitting it off. Are all religious people like this in this world?
[“Pardon, but could you explain what you meant by that?”] Saori asked. [“I know it is rude to question our benefactor, but it does make me wonder why you would support us despite not knowing us.”]
The leviathan suddenly turned silent before giving what sounded like a snicker, booming the surrounding with a low intimidating growl, [“True, I apologize for not explaining sooner. You see, a few days ago, my senses awoke me from my slumber after my tentacles found somebody. I remember that one of them did attack you, young dragoness. For that, I apologize. You smelled… delectable, and without my snake heads, I would destroy the surroundings if I were to hunt properly.”]
D-Delectable?! Errrk! I shuddered, finding the thought of being eaten a bit unnerving. That did remind me of the one time he jumped out into the air to eat some otthas. Trees, the vegetation, and probably many more things were destroyed in that area.
[“It’s ok, I didn’t die and I believe I paid it back by destroying its eye… although, it just regenerated it back instantly,”] I sighed with slight disappointment.
Ever since I met that snake, I’ve only experienced losses. I’ve lost against the snake, the wyverns, but I at least won the negotiation with Asterios in the end. Still, with my fucked up custom spell, I felt like I wasn’t strong enough. It felt bad losing, leaving me with only one thought:
I need to evolve.
[“Hahaha, that is good to hear,”] the leviathan cackled with a wide smile. [“Now… I presume you three cannot see my status board, correct?”]
We nodded. We didn’t know his name, nor his stats. All we knew was his description. Everything was blocked behind a fat [Information is blocked].
["That means my skills are still working properly. I detest having my status board known to others, so I am glad that my skills are helping me protect my secret,”] the leviathan nodded for a moment before continuing. [“What I want to tell you is this.”]
Through his [Telepathy], some sort of information came rushing right into our minds.
[“Young garm, did you know that this title once belonged to your bloodline? The mighty S-rank [Three-Eyed Fenrir] Belzac was once the ruler of this forest and after his death, his bloodline inherited this strength.”] The leviathan eyed Saori. [“However, a few years ago, that title was suddenly granted to me, awakening me from that slumber. I was acquainted with that [Fenrir], who I suppose is your great-grandfather. I was surprised that such a prideful monster like him was taken down.”]
[“Wait, that [Fenrir] had that title before you? Was he that much stronger than you?!”] I asked.
["Hahaha, I must disappoint you but no. I am many, many, many centuries his senior. I did not receive that title before his death because I never vied for it, for I was a foreigner of these woods. My home is the oceans of Plesia and I am simply living here to ensure I could sleep before my evolution into an S rank. It would seem like the title has finally accepted me as a denizen of Belzac forest.”]
In other words, this place was like a summer vacation home for him.
After he reminisced on his age, he continued with our original topic, [“I met your mother, young garm.”]
[“… Do you mean my garm mother? You met her?”] Saori hesitantly responded. [“Sorry, I actually do not know her much. She died after I was born… in an accident.”]
‘In an accident,’ yeah… thank you, Saori.
[“I see… a shame. When I met her, I wanted to aid her but she suddenly wandered away from me. A shame but seeing as she was able to give birth to you, then I should not be worried about Belzac’s lineage. You have grown into a fine wolf, and you make your title [Belzac’s Successor] proud,”] he said.
[“So that was the real reason you helped us… I guess your family saved us three from being separated, right Saori?”] I joked with Saori but she didn’t seem to have realized it, mulling about something.
[“No, that is one reason but not the main one,”] the leviathan once again moved his face closer to me, inspecting me with his giant eyeball. [“The main reason is you, young dragoness.”]
Flinching backward, I said “me?” which seemed to be the reaction the leviathan wanted from me. [“I can see your blessings. The light that surrounds you and your ability to heal people from such a young age made me understand you are a reincarnator of the Goddess of Light. She has brought you to our world for a reason.”]
I gulped.
[“[Otherworldly Reincarnator] and the blessing from Aurena and Kargryxmor. Anybody can see that the gods are planning something, although it seems that wyvern over there hasn’t figured it out yet. Hmph, foolhardy,”] the leviathan scoffed. [“My goddess Plesia is the head Goddess of all six origin god and if somebody like her was willing to allow another [Otherworldly Reincarnator] to enter this world, then as her servant I must make an effort to help.”]
Huh, I already had a good impression on her ‘cause of Tasianna but now it got better. Plesia rocks!
[“Wait, excuse me but could you repeat that? ‘Another [Otherworldly Reincarnator]?' There has been more instances just like the both of us?"] Saori pointed out, causing me to realize what she meant.
["Yes, but that is something of the past. I've met that person and greatness has found them in their lifespan. However…"] the leviathan shook his head. [“It seems your wyvern escorts’ patience is waning, so our talks must end. Ask your fairy or look through books for that information. Before I go, I would like to tell you two something. Consider it… a welcome gift to Peolynca and her beauty.”]
Hearing that, Saori and I began listening intently to what he had to say.
["To the young garm, search for Belzac.”]
[“Search for him? But, he is dead,”] Saori responded.
[“Yes, that he is, but you will understand once the time comes. Become stronger, find Belzac, and once you have his respect, find me. I hold onto your birthright, and while I wish to grant it back to you, you must prove yourself, otherwise the title will not acknowledge you. If you wish to rule this forest, you will need it.”]
[“… I understand.”] Saori didn’t seem like she was too thrilled about hearing this information. Considering she hadn’t accepted her fenrir heritage, this was expected.
Vanialasma then focused his eye on me. [“For you, young dragon princess of the dragon empire, Kargryx, find your family. Reunite with them.”]
[“Urk, what?!”] Just like Saori, this leviathan was bringing family into this, our monster families!
[“You are only a hatchling who hasn't even learned how to control her draconic instincts yet. Listen well, for the Tyrant’s blood is inside you, craving for blood and domination. You cannot learn how to control that power without the help of your family, as it requires a certain technique.”]
Power? Blood? Wait, is he talking about [Battle Frenzy]? That’s the only thing I can think of.
[“This is my gift to you, Dragon Princess — a warning. If the two of you wish to become stronger, stronger than this lesser dragonkin, then you must accept your new selves. Evolution is a monster’s greatest strength, but do not reject your racial and bloodline gifts.”]
Stopping there, the leviathan jerked his head back before roaring out, “Mooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrrhhhhh!” before diving back into the swamp. A geyser of water and mud burst into the air, showering us like rainfall as the the ground we stood on quaked.
[“I wish you good travels, Hestia, Saori, and Tasianna. May the Origin Gods guide you to whatever your heart desires. Remember my words, young garm, the next time we meet it will be when I have evolved into an S rank, so gain power and challenge me to regain what was rightfully yours,”] with those parting words, the leviathan disappeared into the depths of the swamp.
As I quickly worked through the information the leviathan gave us, having my parallel minds sort everything for easier reference in the future, I noticed my two companions were still staring blankly at where the leviathan once was.
[“Hey, guys? You two ok?”] I asked, slightly worried.
[“Huh? Oh yeah, sorry, Hestia. That was… a lot to process,”] Saori said exasperatedly, but I couldn’t help but agree. [“That was… too much information for me. Far too much and it is giving me a slight headache.”]
[“I’m also alright, Lady Hestia. I was in wonderment really. Witnessing a friendly leviathan is supposedly hard. They were extremely territorial. I only wish I could’ve asked him a few questions but, alas, I didn’t want to interrupt your conversation,”] Tasianna admitted with a playful smile.
[“Well, we have to meet the lizardmen again anyways, so you can always ask him about the details later on when we visit the levianewts, right, Saori?”] I turned to my first friend in this world, after seeing Tasianna say “I can’t wait.”
[“Huh? Meet the leviathan, huh? Well, I guess it would interest me also from a historian’s perspective,”] she said a bit absent-mindedly.
She worries about it, too, huh? Well, I can’t help but agree. ‘Find my dragon family,’ huh?
While in deep thought, I noticecd Astalos coming closer to me, carrying the lizardmen on his back. [“Princess Hestia Atsuko, you have spoken with the ocean dragon, yes? Now that he has left, I advise that we move out as soon as possible. It will still take me the whole day today to reach elven territory, so let us be off now,”]
Knowing I could talk about it to Saori later on, I decided to put it aside for now to focus on bringing the lizardmen out of the forest. As everybody slowly climbed onto the wyvern’s back, I noticed the wyverns were pouring in mana into their wings through my senses.
Wanting to learn how to fly, I asked Asterios, [“Flying, Princess? Hmm, it will still take a while until your wings grow large enough to carry your whole body. At your age, you will need to use mana to carry your body. Once we are in Wyvern Peaks, let your two new retainers take care of you.”]
Two new retainers, huh? I guess he was talking about the two snow wyverns. It’s a shame that they didn’t have [Telepathy], otherwise we could talk about it… but I think it’s better this way. I haven’t apologized yet and I also feel too awkward to do so.
Once everybody was on board, the wyverns began flapping their wings after casting wind magic to help them take off. The burst of powerful winds gave the wyverns the necessary oomph to catapult their bodies upward despite how many people they had to carry right now.
Being up in the sky again was quite the experience. Instead of feeling like I was free when I flew, it felt more as if I was on an airplane, cruising through the skies on my way to Japan or Germany during vacation time.
As Asterios said, it took until the evening for the wyverns to make it past the mountain pass connecting Belzac forest with the elven kingdom, Saelarial. Watching the sea of trees just slide pass me in a single day dis make me envious. Flying was so much faster.
After exiting the mountain pass, we chose a spot close to an elven settlement Tasianna knew about and let the lizardmen off. Saying our tearful goodbyes, especially when I had to do it with the kids, made me feel nauseous. I wanted to give the kids an idol concert but until we met again, that promise would be left unfulfilled.
It just felt sad… but what could I do? They were finally out of that devil’s hole so I should, instead of feeling sad, be happy for them that they didn’t have to suffer anymore. They were finally so close to reaching their destination.
It might have been a depressing goodbye, but I could also see the elation and relief in their faces. They were sick and tired of the forest so it made sense they felt like that.
After giving them all their belongings back, including some of our rations to help them for a few days, we parted. With that taken care of, Saori, Tasianna, and I departed with the wyverns towards the south, intending to reach Wyvern Peaks which was among the mountain range of Avitor Peaks.
Goal: Saelarial = X
New goal: Aviator Peaks.
“General, are you sure about what that scout told you?”
"Yes, my King! The scouts spoke with the indigenous kobold tribes and found out that the wyverns were flying to the north!”
"Huh, that should make it easy for us. Turn our aims up north and let no one enter the skyspace of these mountain ranges without my permission."
“Permission to fire at will?”
“Shoot those cannons when you see them. We’re gonna hunt us some wyverns.”
AbyssRaven One part of an adventurer is also the fact your goals might change mid-way. In this case, Hestia and co. have learned to actually get initiative, they had to become even stronger than before. In a world with things like that A rank leviathan, they were still mere ants. It seems like it is about time to evolve, no? Just one more level for Hestia to evolve.
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