Epilogue: A Maze of Uncertainty Lies Ahead

Glenn had returned from the world of Alicia III’s memoirs, and the night had passed—

Finally, the last day of the Magic Festival, the day of the final match, had arrived.

Though the match was set to begin in the afternoon, the spectator seats of the Celica-Elliot Grand Arena were already completely packed at this early hour.

Everyone was buzzing with excitement, discussing whether the Alzano Empire or the Rezalia Kingdom would emerge victorious.

Amidst this fervor,

To the southeast of the Celica-Elliot Grand Arena—in other words, in the grand hall of the Tirika-Falia Cathedral, towering at the heart of the Free City of Milano—

The summit between the leaders of the Alzano Empire and the Rezalia Kingdom commenced, the air crackling with tension.

At the table positioned in the center of the hall sat the dignitaries of both the Empire and the Kingdom.

On the right side:

Queen Alicia VII of the Alzano Empire, Alicia El Kel Alzano.

Lord Gratz Le Edward, Chief of the Queen’s Cabinet Office.

Lord Azel Le Ignite, Minister of the Imperial Army and Chief of the Joint Staff of the Ministry of Defense.

And various high-ranking officials from the Alzano Empire’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On the left side:

Pope Funeral Hauser of the St. Elizares Church Papacy.

Cardinal Bishop Fais Cardis of the St. Elizares Church Papacy.

Cardinal Archibald Ambis of the St. Elizares Church Papacy.

And the current king of the Rezalia Kingdom, King Rox El Kel Rezalia V.

Alongside the Rezalia Kingdom’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and various influential lords.

The dignitaries of both nations, seated across from each other, exchanged wary, scrutinizing glances.

Surrounding the central table, the audience seats were filled with attendees, including the mayor of the Free City of Milano, who provided the venue for this summit, the leader of the Seria Alliance, and representatives or leaders from various neighboring countries, all observing the proceedings with bated breath.

After all, both the Alzano Empire and the Rezalia Kingdom were titans of the North Selford Continent.

The Alzano Empire boasted cutting-edge magical technology, while the Rezalia Kingdom wielded immense national power and influence due to its vast territory and population, making them dominant forces in the northern continent.

The outcome of this summit could shape the future of not only these two nations but also the surrounding countries, forcing the attending leaders to watch the developments with rapt attention.

Amid the palpable tension radiating from the gathered leaders—

“We sincerely thank you for providing this opportunity for dialogue today.”

Queen Alicia VII began with a formal greeting.

“The Magic Festival, a celebration of peace held after decades, has brought about this summit, an occasion that reaffirms the festival’s significance. I earnestly hope that today we can engage in constructive exchanges and discussions toward the peace and prosperity of both our nations.”

Alicia VII spoke confidently and eloquently to the assembly, her warm smile softening the atmosphere.

Her words slightly eased the tension among the attending leaders.

After all, the Alzano Empire was one of the world’s foremost military powers. For its leader to approach this summit with a peaceful stance was immensely reassuring.

However—

“Hmph. I hardly think constructive talks are possible… with someone of your inferior collateral bloodline.”

The abrupt, belligerent remark froze the room.

Seated at the head of the Rezalia Kingdom’s side, dressed in splendid attire but gaunt and withered, was King Rox El Kel Rezalia V.

The Rezalia Kingdom was, in essence, a theocratic state where the St. Elizares Church Papacy held political sovereignty.

Moreover, Rox V had delegated all governance and administration to the Papacy, rendering him a mere figurehead king. If anything, his devout adherence to the St. Elizares Church bordered on obsession, as he actively submitted to their authority.

Rox V spat his words at Alicia VII with unveiled disgust.

“The Alzano royal family is nothing but an inferior offshoot derived from our noble Rezalia royal line. There can be no discussion with a nation led by a woman, an inferior leader of such a lowly lineage. Let alone a heretical nation that clings to false beliefs—what could we possibly have to discuss?”

“…”

“If you wish to speak with me, the true king of Rezalia, first dismantle your Imperial National Church, renounce your faith, surrender all your territories, and kneel before me.”

But—

“With all due respect, Your Majesty King Rox V, that is impossible.”

Alicia VII responded with a calm yet resolute tone.

“As the sovereign leader of the Alzano Empire, I will never kneel to you.”

“You dare speak, woman…! Do you even know whose blood flows in your veins—?”

“My blood is my own, belonging to no one else. History cannot be undone. This is not the time to debate which is the main or collateral line. We must focus on resolving the practical issues that lie between our two nations.”

“Then surrender your territories to me! The Alzano Empire’s royal family is a derivative of the Rezalia royal line! Your nation is rightfully mine! That’s how it must be! We could take your country by war if we wished!”

“That path leads only to the ruin of both our nations. Modern magical technology is far beyond what it was during the Divine Reverence War forty years ago. …Can you defeat us? Without suffering catastrophic losses?”

“Guh—”

Even the incompetent Rox knew this.

Or rather, bitter memories from forty years ago resurfaced.

The Divine Reverence War forty years prior—a war the Kingdom had initiated, confident of victory—had turned into a quagmire due to the Alzano Empire’s unexpected resistance, resulting in staggering casualties on both sides.

In terms of sheer numbers, the Rezalia Kingdom’s losses far exceeded those of the Alzano Empire. Though it was called a stalemate, it was effectively a defeat for the Kingdom.

The only reason the Empire hadn’t annexed the Kingdom was its lack of surplus strength at the time.

Having experienced the front lines firsthand, Rox was more cautious than the hardline factions of the St. Elizares Church Papacy, who were driven by blind faith to pursue reckless religious wars.

Alicia VII, ever astute, aimed to exploit this very divergence between the royal family and the Papacy. Though the Rezalia royal family had long lost political power, the Papacy could not entirely ignore their influence.

“…Of course, I have no desire for such an outcome. In this era, war must be avoided. That is precisely why we are holding this summit.”

Alicia VII’s consistently composed words provoked frustration among Rox V, the Kingdom’s anti-rapprochement leaders, and the Papacy’s hardliners.

The attending leaders from other nations marveled at Alicia VII’s poise and resolve.

Cardinal Bishop Fais and Pope Funeral, part of the pro-rapprochement faction, let out sighs of relief.

Alicia VII was already dominating the room.

“…”

Only Cardinal Archibald, the leader of the Papacy’s hardline faction, maintained an eerie silence.

Despite his pallor, his piercing gaze silently surveyed the room.

“Shall we begin?”

And so—

The summit between the Alzano Empire and the Rezalia Kingdom commenced.

Ten minutes before the final match.

“Alright… it’s almost time.”

As Sistine and her team conducted final strategy reviews and mental preparations, the moment drew near.

“Let’s go, you guys.”

Wrapped in tension, Sistine and her team, spurred by Glenn, made their way through the corridors of the Celica-Elliot Grand Arena toward the central competition field.

But on their way—

“…Hmph. So, the heretics have arrived.”

At a T-junction in the corridor, they encountered another group.

A group clad in black clerical uniforms.

Leading them was a boy with slicked-back hair and dark, brooding eyes.

“Markov-san.”

Sistine eyed the boy cautiously, to which Markov Dragunov, the main wizard of the Rezalia Kingdom’s Farnelia Unified Theological Academy, snorted disdainfully.

“You’ve done well to make it this far. I’ll give you that.”

“…”

Markov addressed Sistine with an air of arrogance.

“Honestly, I’m grateful for this encounter, for this divine providence. After all—I can openly ‘purge’ you traitors in front of the masses.”

The term “traitors” was a derogatory jab at the Alzano Empire’s Imperial National Church (New Faith Vardia Sect), which had splintered from the St. Elizares Church Papacy (Old Faith Canon Sect). Despite worshipping the same god, the friction between the old and new faiths was intense.

“Your faith versus ours… which is true? Which holds justice? Today, the world will know.”

But.

“I don’t care.”

Sistine responded with a bright smile.

“Huh…?”

“Which sect is legitimate? That kind of religious debate doesn’t interest me. I’m not even that devout. I just show up for worship on holidays sometimes.”

Caught off guard, Markov’s eyes widened as Sistine continued.

“What I’m interested in is your magical skill. How you’ll fight with magic, and how I’ll counter it. That’s what I’m really looking forward to.”

Sistine spoke with a bold, cheerful smile.

But her nonchalant attitude deeply wounded Markov’s faith and pride, igniting his fury.

“Don’t mock me…! You say it doesn’t matter? You dare belittle our sacred and noble faith, calling it worthless…!?”

“I’m not belittling it. I’m just saying ideology and religion have no place in a competition of magical skill. That’s all.”

“I see! I understand now! You truly are heretics! Demons! Your souls are fundamentally corrupt! Poisoned by Vardia’s insane doctrines! No wonder we can’t reason with you! You don’t speak the language of humans!”

Markov ranted furiously at Sistine, who refused to engage.

His feverish, blazing eyes seemed to stray from sanity.

“…You’d better be ready. I’ll put you on trial in a religious court. The verdict is death. Fortunately… if I kill you during the match, it’ll just be an ‘accident.’ A fitting end for heretics like you… heh, hahaha…!”

Markov laughed darkly, his voice low.

Chuckling, he led his team past Sistine.

To him, Sistine offered a sudden observation.

“Hey, Markov-san. You… you look pale. Are you feeling alright?”

Without responding to her words,

Markov walked away.

“It’s finally time.”

After parting with Sistine’s team, Glenn, Eve, Rumia, Ellen, Re=L, and Elsa took their usual spots in the reserved spectator seats.

Behind them, as if it were only natural…

“Man, I’m pumped! I never thought they’d make it this far! Right, Wendy!?”

“Kash-san, your nerve after yesterday… I genuinely respect it.”

“Ugh, this is why guys are just…”

“Haha…”

“M-more importantly… will everyone be okay? I heard the Rezalia people are really scary…”

Kash, Wendy, Teresa, Cecil, Lynn, and the rest of the cheering squad had settled in.

Looking around…

“So, who’ll win? What do you think?”

“…Sentimentally, I’d like the Empire, who beat us, to take it.”

Adil and Elseed from Harasa’s representative team.

“All we can do now is watch over their journey.”

“Aye, that’s right.”

Sakuya and Shigure from the Sun Wheel Nation’s team.

Others, like Gilliam from the Green Nation of Talyshin, Frederica from Gartz, Alfred from the Seria Alliance, and Kriemhild from Almanes—competitors who had been defeated but shone brightly in the tournament—gathered in the stands.

Surely, they all wanted to see it. To know.

Which nation was truly the strongest magical power in the world, both in name and reality.

Who among this generation’s young mages was the strongest.

They eagerly awaited the moment of truth.

Soon, Sistine, Markov, and the other competitors from both nations appeared on the central competition field below, and the spectators’ excitement surged.

“The rules for the final… there are none. It’s a level playing field.”

Eve, arms crossed, muttered as she observed the students below.

As Eve pointed out, the competition field, previously manipulated to create complex terrain, was now completely flat.

“No restrictions, no gimmicks—just a straight-up magical battle. A pure contest of skill against skill.”

“In this fight, the stronger side wins, plain and simple. Nice and clear.”

Glenn grinned in response.

“Speaking of fights… there’s Her Majesty, too.”

“Yes, exactly.”

Eve nodded.

“This Magic Festival, held after decades… its true purpose.”

“The summit between the Alzano Empire and the Rezalia Kingdom…”

Glenn’s gaze drifted momentarily toward the horizon.

To the southeast of the Celica-Elliot Grand Arena, at the heart of the Free City of Milano, stood a massive religious structure—the Tirika-Falia Cathedral.

There, at that very moment, the summit between the leaders of the Alzano Empire and the Rezalia Kingdom was taking place.

The outcome would shape the perpetually tense relationship between the Empire and the Kingdom.

The future of the Empire hung in the balance—

“That’s not something you need to worry about right now.”

Eve’s cool remark snapped Glenn back to reality.

“Focus on watching your precious students shine.”

“Y-yeah… you’re right.”

Glenn refocused, looking down at the competition field.

His eyes met Sistine’s.

From afar, Sistine gave a small nod.

Glenn nodded back silently.

Satisfied, Sistine offered a faint smile, then turned sharply to face the Rezalia Kingdom’s team across the field.

Soon, amid roaring cheers, a signal flare shot into the sky, marking the start of the match…

And with that, the curtain rose on the Magic Festival’s final battle.

——

As expected by all—

The summit between the Empire and the Kingdom was fraught with conflict.

For the Alzano Empire and the Rezalia Kingdom to join hands and commit to a path of peaceful cooperation, they had to navigate a mountain of unavoidable issues.

Chief among them were the unresolved border disputes lingering from the Divine Reverence War forty years ago and the Kingdom’s demand for the return of territories effectively controlled by the Empire, such as the Eternal Snow Peaks.

In particular—the eastern highland region of Karaal.

Originally, this was land abandoned by the Kingdom, which the Empire had incorporated at the request of the forsaken locals who sought aid.

In recent years, valuable magical ores had been discovered in the region, making it a prime target for the Rezalia Kingdom to assert its national property rights and attack the Alzano Empire.

Moreover, for the current Alzano Empire, this region was a critical defensive stronghold in the east, making it impossible to relinquish.

“If you Imperials truly wish to ally with us, shouldn’t you first show some sincerity!?”

“Exactly! That land is rightfully ours!”

“The Empire has unjustly violated our territory!”

To such accusations from the Rezalia Kingdom, Alicia VII responded—

“To call it unjust territorial violation is a misunderstanding. In 1825, the Karaal Annexation Treaty, signed by the leaders of both nations, secured your consent, resolving the matter definitively and irreversibly.”

At times, with historical facts and sound reasoning—

“We are prepared to include your nation as a priority trading partner for the primary distribution of the mined magical ores. This will surely bring wealth to your country and foster development for both our nations.”

At times, with economic incentives—

“Conquer Karaal by force? Surely you jest. Do not underestimate our intelligence-gathering capabilities. Your military is overextended due to your aggressive religious purification policies across multiple fronts. Many neighboring nations are already resentful and uncooperative with your Church. Attacking that fortress in such a state would be tantamount to suicide.”

At times, with strategic facts derived from superior intelligence networks—

“In fact, your nation, a titan of the northern continent, has provoked a dire state of tension with the Immortal King, Duke Farl Schwartz, by meddling with his Night Kingdom. Facing a potential war with such a monster, you desperately need security in your rear—especially the strategic safety of Karaal.

And from our perspective, for national defense, we cannot afford to let you, our bulwark against the Night Kingdom, fall… Do you understand? We have no choice but to join hands.”

At times, applying pressure—

“Very well. If you insist, perhaps we should consider changing our negotiating partner. For instance… it might not be a bad idea to have a friendly chat with the Immortal King, Duke Farl Schwartz, the very ruler you fear, about our future relations.”

And at times, subtly weaving in threats.

The summit was entirely Alicia VII’s stage.

The Kingdom tried various attacks and counterarguments.

Claims of legitimate governance, pressure diplomacy backed by allied military might, religious disputes…

But none of it fazed Alicia VII, who anticipated their moves two or three steps ahead.

To sound arguments, she responded with bold assertions.

To bold assertions, she countered with sophistry.

To sophistry, she returned with sound arguments.

Alicia VII deftly parried the Rezalia Kingdom’s assaults.

And she consistently proposed ideas for the development and future of both nations.

Moreover, none of her proposals unfairly disadvantaged either side. They were all constructive, designed to benefit both nations in the long term through mutual cooperation.

Even the hardline factions of the Rezalia Kingdom’s Papacy weren’t all blindly devoted to faith. When presented with tangible benefits, some began to waver.

And with the eyes of other nations’ leaders watching, the situation was clear.

When the Alzano Empire’s leader offered such constructive proposals, while the Kingdom resorted to accusations and religious debates without offering alternatives, it reflected poorly on them as a nation.

Naturally, for the prideful Rezalia Kingdom and the St. Elizares Church Papacy, this was an intolerable humiliation.

“We have a proposal as well. As you say, our overly aggressive religious purification policies have severely strained relations with neighboring nations, particularly Nansui. Since your nation maintains favorable ties with these countries, we request your mediation to improve these relations. If possible, we are willing to consider your terms.”

Cardinal Bishop Fais skillfully supported Alicia VII, framing demands in a way that prevented the Kingdom and Church from feeling entirely outmaneuvered.

“The opening of the Northern Sea Route. The complete abolition of tariffs on trade along the northern coastal route… As an inland nation, this is non-negotiable for us.”

“…Very well, I understand. If it benefits both our nations.”

In truth, such matters had been negotiated in secret beforehand, and everything was proceeding as planned. However, in the public eye, it appeared as though the Kingdom had outmaneuvered the Empire, gaining the upper hand.

Such theatrics were precisely what preserved a nation’s dignity and pride.

And so…

Everything unfolded according to Alicia VII’s designs.

In the end, it was an overwhelming victory for Alicia VII.

The talks concluded as a highly constructive dialogue for both nations.

Several significant treaties were signed, paving the way for future cooperation.

This was, without a doubt, a historic achievement.

(Phew… we did it… it all came together perfectly…)

For a decade—nay, with this momentum, perhaps for decades to come—Alicia VII, having secured peace, let out a sigh of relief.

Her years of toil had finally borne fruit.

(…It was a long journey… but now…)

Alicia VII savored the joy and sense of accomplishment swelling in her chest.

The result was a major triumph for the reconciliation faction, and both Cardinal Bishop Fais and Pope Funeral, too, seemed to exhale in relief.

At long last, a great turning point had arrived, breaking the historical deadlock caused by years of friction.

(It wasn’t in vain… everything I’ve done up to now, none of it was in vain… for the future where that child, Ermiana, will live, I can build an era of peace… now, I can finally hold my head high before her…)

As the summit concluded, thunderous applause erupted in the venue.

Everyone seated together celebrated this outcome, embracing it with unbridled joy.

A happy ending, indeed.

May fortune smile upon the futures of both the Alzano Empire and the Rezalia Kingdom. May fortune smile upon the world.

Just as the atmosphere was settling into such harmony—that was the moment.

“Well, well… what a pity, though,”

Cardinal Archbishop Archibald, who had been surprisingly subdued until now, suddenly began to gloat.

“What’s that supposed to mean, Cardinal Archbishop Archibald?”

“Oh, nothing… just that, if only Cardinal Bishop Fais and Pope Funeral hadn’t been ‘assassinated’ by agents of your Empire… this peace might have actually come to pass.”

Silence…

Archibald’s incomprehensible words caused the venue to fall as still as a pond struck by a single drop.

Gradually, confusion and unease began to seep into the space like a creeping poison.

“…Cardinal Archbishop Archibald? What exactly are you saying…?”

Cardinal Bishop Fais, visibly rattled, questioned him.

“Oh, just what I said, Cardinal Bishop Fais. Unfortunately, you and Pope Funeral are about to be ‘assassinated’ by heartless agents of the Empire.”

“…!?”

“And I, in turn, will have no choice but to wage war, with the full might of our nation’s honor, to deliver a righteous hammer upon the cowardly Empire that struck you down.”

Murmurs.

Murmurs, murmurs, murmurs…

Archibald’s words sent a wave of tension rippling through the room.

“Now… shall we begin?”

And then, Cardinal Archbishop Archibald… slowly raised his hand—

At that moment, the thoughts of everyone present raced at breakneck speed.

It was as if time itself had slowed, enveloping all in a surreal sensation.

And then—

To resist the impending catastrophe looming just moments away, everyone sprang into action at once—

(—Here it comes!)

At that instant, Alicia VII shot to her feet with a clatter!

Cardinal Archbishop Archibald was the leader of the hardline faction of the Church of St. Elizares.

And the most ardent advocate for war with the Empire.

To that end, the presence of the reconciliation faction’s Cardinal Bishop Fais and the current Pope Funeral was an obstacle.

Alicia VII had considered the possibility that he might attempt something during the summit.

She had been on guard.

(But to think— he’d make such a brazen move!?)

To attempt an assassination in broad daylight, in front of so many national leaders?

How? And how could he possibly follow through? What about the aftermath?

Alicia VII scanned her surroundings, her wariness plain.

The area was protected by a warding barrier. It was impossible. Assassination was unthinkable.

But there was no time to ponder now.

Alicia VII resolved to activate the “precaution” she had prepared for just such an emergency—

(I’m counting on you—… Albert!)

(Hmph, as expected.)

At that moment, Lord Azel le Ignite, seated calmly in his chair, maintained an air of composure.

(That upstart Archibald. I saw through your intentions long ago.)

Thus, Lord Ignite had secretly deployed Ilia.

He had Ilia eliminate all the assassins Archibald had hired.

(Well, Ilia’s demeanor upon her return was a bit odd, but no matter. Those assassins were a decoy, after all… Did you think I wouldn’t see through it?)

Indeed, Lord Ignite had read the situation perfectly.

The true assassination attempt was likely—

And that was precisely why he had only eliminated the decoy assassins.

To make the enemy believe their plan hadn’t been uncovered.

And martial glory is only meaningful when achieved publicly, in plain view.

That’s why he had deliberately let the real assassins run free—so he could deal with them himself.

Lord Ignite smirked with bold confidence.

(Now—I won’t let war break out… not yet… for the day when I will hold both the Empire and the Kingdom in my grasp!)

(Oh? So it comes to this, does it?)

At that moment, a certain individual in attendance secretly smirked.

(And yes, of course. All of you gathered here anticipated this development. You’ve made thorough preparations, convinced that everything will unfold according to your plans.)

The individual glanced at their left hand.

A ring adorned one finger.

(I’ll commend your foresight as impressive for mere humans. But unfortunately, Pope Funeral and Cardinal Bishop Fais will be “assassinated” here. Your defeat lies in your inability to measure things beyond human common sense.)

And then, the individual slowly moved the hand bearing the ring—

(Indeed, this stage belongs to us. To us, the Researchers of Heavenly Wisdom…)

(—And that’s what they’re all thinking, isn’t it? Look at those faces! Each one convinced they’ve outsmarted everyone else!)

At that moment, Cardinal Archbishop Archibald smirked, certain of his victory.

Every single one of them was completely off the mark.

His true aim was something far beyond their wildest imaginations.

(Fools! In mere moments, you’ll witness a spectacle no one could have predicted, one that defies all imagination—!)

Thoughts raced at their utmost limit.

A sluggish flow of time, orchestrated by those thoughts.

But then—

“Gwaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh—!?”

Suddenly, several high-ranking officials from the Alzano Empire clutched their heads and screamed.

Those officials had undergone a bizarre transformation.

Their eyes bloodshot, their bodies swollen with steel-like muscles, their claws and fangs gleaming sharp like those of monsters—

Boom!

The monstrously transformed imperial officials, moving with superhuman speed and agility, lunged at the stunned Cardinal Bishop Fais and Pope Funeral—

At the same moment, Cardinal Archbishop Archibald grinned, certain of his triumph.

Why? How could the Empire’s vassals…? When did this happen? How was it done!?

There wasn’t a fraction of a second to dwell on such questions.

All that was permitted now was to confront this merciless reality.

Time—began to move.

Everyone present, driven by their own agendas, sprang into action at once—

“I won’t let you! Albert—!”

Hesitating for only a moment, Alicia VII shouted her decision.

Her command, transformed into a magical signal, flew from the Tirika-Falia Cathedral, soaring over 3,000 metra to the south.

To a certain individual stationed atop the highest spire of the majestic Scorforts Castle.

To the mightiest man of the Imperial Court Mage Corps’ Special Missions Annex—

“Albert-san!”

Christoph, who had been visually synchronized with Alicia VII inside the summit through a simplified familiar contract and relaying that information to Albert, turned and shouted.

“Distance 3,021, elevation minus 20, three targets, barrier shielding strength 8—can you pull off a miracle shot, a wall-piercing, ultra-long-range magical snipe through that tiny gap!?”

To Christoph’s desperate question,

“…Easy.”

Albert, wielding the rifle-like magical staff《Blue Lightning》, responded calmly.

His hawk-like eyes fixed on the distant target, the staff’s tip surged with overwhelming azure lightning—and fired.

(I prepared for this moment! I won’t let Cardinal Bishop Fais or Pope Funeral be killed…!)

Alicia VII’s prayer echoed powerfully through the scene—

“Hmph, I won’t allow it!”

Lord Ignite shouted.

“Have you forgotten my title—《Lord Scarlet》!?”

Whoosh!

A terrifyingly immense wave of flames swirled around Lord Ignite, the heat transforming into a storm.

The secret art of Ignite, master of fire and flame magic.

The Family Secret Spell [Seventh Garden]—an absurdly powerful technique that omitted all five steps of the ‘Quint Action’ for activating fire-based magic within a designated area—was now unveiled.

(The glory will be mine! I, Ignite, am the true ruler of the Empire and, ultimately, the Kingdom! You are all mere stepping stones!)

(Heh… now’s the time. Perfect timing.)

The individual smirked.

The ring on their finger emitted a faint, eerie glow.

Thump…

Darkness—stirred.

Thud…

Darkness—descended.

From another world, a nowhere place unlike this one, a colossal conceptual entity, beyond human reach, knocked at the gate to this world.

It was the forbidden art known as Demon Summoning.

Now, a being called a demon was about to manifest, to be born into this world—

(Heh… Cardinal Bishop Fais and Pope Funeral will exit the stage here… the ones truly controlling the Rezalia Kingdom from the shadows are us, the Researchers of Heavenly Wisdom…!)

—At that moment.

Everyone present thought the same thing.

“I’ve won.”

“Everything is going according to my plan.”

That they alone had outmaneuvered the swirling conspiracies and schemes, standing atop all others.

That they were the victor—

In the instant everyone was certain of this—

Everyone—was betrayed.

“I read it all.”

CRASHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

It happened without warning, out of nowhere.

A man descended, shattering the stained-glass ceiling.

He descended alongside countless angels.

“Wha…?”

“What… the hell!?”

It was truly a momentary event.

For some reason, the monsters that had lunged at Fais and Funeral were suddenly sliced in half, as if by an invisible blade, collapsing to the ground—

In that instant, the artificial spirits—Tulpas—shaped like angels darted like arrows, effortlessly severing the heads of the Rezalia Kingdom’s current king, Rox El Kel Rezalia V, his ministers, and prominent lords with their swords.

Countless heads rolled through the air.

Amid the gushing and splattering blood—

The man who descended in this chaos brandished his left arm in a single motion.

A black blade extending from the back of his hand deflected the ferocious, ultra-high-voltage lightning cannon of《Blue Lightning》that had come crashing through the wall—

The redirected lightning cannon now barreled straight toward Lord Ignite.

“Kuh—!?”

Lord Ignite was forced to abandon his flame spell activation and dodge—

“Huh?”

And then, on Cardinal Archbishop Archibald, who stood stunned by this turn of events, veins began to surface across his body like a woven mesh…

Pop! GUSHHHHHHHH!

Suddenly, his body burst, spewing dark blood from every inch, collapsing in a gruesome, pitiful state—dead in an instant.

Silence…

It all happened in a mere moment.

Faced with this unimaginable, unforeseeable spectacle… everyone could only stand in stunned silence.

“Cardinal Archbishop Archibald’s symptoms just now… the terminal stage of《Angel Dust》…?”

Alicia VII’s stunned murmur slipped out.

“Tch, tch, not good enough. Your scenarios are all wrong, haha!”

Amid this tragedy, the man who had masterfully orchestrated this absurd upheaval… Jatice Lowfan laughed gleefully.

In the silent room, he alone continued to laugh, as if it were the funniest thing in the world.

“A peace summit? Laughable. Let’s be honest, it’s all a farce, what you’re all doing.

Your Majesty, the Queen. I respect your noble efforts for peace despite bearing the blood of evil. But what you’re doing is merely postponing the problem.

Lord Ignite. You’re consumed by your ugly ambitions, planning to wage war with the Kingdom later, only pretending to cooperate with Her Majesty for a temporary, false peace, aren’t you? You’ve been making some dangerous preparations, haven’t you? How many past heroes have you gathered as your pawns by now?”

“…”

Lord Ignite glared sharply at Jatice.

“Of course, Archibald was all too eager to dominate the Kingdom and wage war with the Empire, wasn’t he?

And the Researchers of Heavenly Wisdom, manipulating Archibald to acquire faith-based weapons? Naturally, they’re also itching to pit the Kingdom against the Empire, right?

Don’t you think so, Pope Funeral? Oh, by the way, that ring of yours is lovely. It’s got this creepy vibe… like it could summon a demon or something, right? Heh, retiring early, are we? No, no, you need to stay on this stage a bit longer…”

To Jatice’s provocative, testing question,

“…”

Pope Funeral lowered the arm with the ring, remaining silent.

“It’s all a farce… no matter who wins this summit, no matter how you struggle, war between the Empire and the Kingdom is inevitable. That’s the structure of it.

Whether the war comes sooner or later… that’s the only difference. Such a grand peace festival, and yet, it’s no good. Terribly no good. Don’t you agree, brothers and sisters of the world?”

Jatice spread his arms theatrically, surveying the frozen leaders of the world’s nations.

“And here’s a little spoiler. The true aim of the Researchers of Heavenly Wisdom is an all-out war between the Empire and the Kingdom. That’s no good. Terribly no good. ‘If these two nations clash, if blood flows between them’… well, I’ll skip the grand reasons, but the world will end.”

Incomprehensible.

No one could comprehend.

Yet, overwhelmed by the madman’s ravings, no one could ignore him in this moment.

“The Alzano Empire, cursed by an evil will, must fall, and frankly, so should the Rezalia Kingdom… but the one thing that must not happen is a war between them. Quite the dilemma.

So, I thought hard. About how to save this world. How to avoid a war between the Empire and the Kingdom? No matter what, that war alone must be prevented. And so, I propose to you, brothers and sisters, a third scenario. Yes—”

And then, Jatice declared—

“The opening of the Second Great Magic War”—how’s that sound?

Words of madness that left everyone even more dumbfounded.

“That’s right, a repeat of two hundred years ago… a war between humanity and an evil god! If the Second Great Magic War breaks out, the conflict between the Empire and the Kingdom will vanish… isn’t that so?”

“Wha…”

“Oh, of course, many humans will die in this war against the evil god… a tragic thing. But if the Empire and the Kingdom fight, the world will truly perish… so this is ‘justice’!

Conveniently, I happen to know someone who can summon the kin of that evil god… yes, the ‘Pure Maiden of Darkness,’ heh heh heh! Hahaha, hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha—!”

At Jatice’s words, Cardinal Bishop Fais shouted,

“What—how much do you know!?”

“Who knows?”

“Are you truly intending to start the Second Great Magic War!? To summon an evil god into this world!? Are you planning to challenge the entire world all by yourself!?”

“Heh… that’s—”

Before Cardinal Bishop Fais could respond,

Boom!

Two streaks of azure lightning, hurtling from the skies 3,000 metra away, pierced through barriers and walls, blasting Jatice’s head and torso apart.

It was Albert’s magic sniping.

Yet—Jatice’s form shattered into fine dust-like particles, dissipating into mist.

“…A Tulpa…!? When did he…!?”

“Chase him! Search! Scour the surroundings! He’s still nearby—!”

The scene erupted into chaos. Guards and patrols scrambled in a frenzy amid the pandemonium.

The hopeful vision of a radiant future for peace, which had filled the air moments ago, was now but a fleeting bubble.

All that remained was an unyielding, unfathomable chaos, with no clear path forward.

(My ideals… my wishes…)

Alicia VII felt the peaceful vision she had envisioned, the future she had dreamed of, crumbling with a deafening crash—

—At the same moment.

Shhh…

The Celica-Elliot Grand Arena was as silent as midnight.

“…Huh?”

Sistine Fibel stood frozen, utterly dumbfounded.

Before her… ten corpses lay scattered.

Markov Dragunov and his comrades… the representative athletes from the Rezalia Kingdom’s Farnelia Unified Theological Academy.

“…W-what… is this…?”

Just moments ago, Sistine and her team had been locked in a heated magical battle with Markov’s group.

A battle of equals, where both sides unleashed their secret arts and ultimate techniques in an all-out war.

The audience had been swept up in the fervor, and even Sistine, uncharacteristically, felt her soul blaze with passion as the battle’s intensity soared… until that moment.

Right before Sistine’s eyes, Markov and his team suddenly began to writhe in agony… their bodies sprouting vein-like patterns that looked like woven nets…

And then, they all collapsed, broken and mangled.

Black blood sprayed everywhere, their forms grotesquely ruined.

And—Sistine recognized those symptoms—

“…N-no, Angel Dust…!? It can’t be… it can’t be…!?”

Trembling uncontrollably, Sistine stood frozen.

“H-hey… Sistine-senpai… what’s going on!? What is this…?”

Maria, pale and terrified, clung desperately to Sistine’s arm.

The others—Rize, Levin, Gibul, Colette, Francine, Ginny, Heinkel—despite their usual resilience, could only stand petrified, faces drained of color, in the face of this utterly abnormal situation.

“A-are they… dead…? R-really…? This is a lie, right…!?”

“Maria! Everyone! Stay sharp! Something’s about to happen!”

Perhaps due to her experience in surviving countless battlefields, Sistine snapped back faster than anyone, barking orders at her comrades and scanning their surroundings warily.

(I don’t know what’s happening! But—something’s going down right now…!)

And then—

The tournament organizers, clearly recognizing the emergency, seemed to have deactivated the isolation barrier surrounding the central competition field.

“White Cat!”

Glenn, Eve, Re=L, and Elsa landed on the field, rushing toward them.

“Sensei!”

Sistine turned to face Glenn and the others… and that’s when it happened.

Flutter, flutter…

A single white feather, then another… drifted across Sistine’s field of vision.

“Wha…”

Instinctively, Sistine looked up—

“‘The tournament’s already been canceled, so attacking during it doesn’t count, right?’… That man’s logic is truly incomprehensible.”

Hovering in the void, as if standing on air, was a girl with three pairs of six wings beating gracefully.

“Sorry, but… you’re coming with us. …Maria Luther.”

And a young man in a black coat.

“No… let’s call you this instead. ‘The Pure Maiden of Darkness’—Miriam Cardis.”

“…Huh…? Car… dis…?”

Maria mumbled in a daze, clinging tighter to Sistine’s arm.

Sistine stepped forward, shielding Maria protectively.

And then—

“Luna!”

Glenn and the others raced toward Sistine, struggling to close the impossibly vast distance.

Now, history was on the verge of a monumental turning point—