――The final moments passed peacefully, incredibly quietly.

「――My star」

　Yes, his voice tone was flat, yet the call was filled with a love so profound it was hard to contain. Iris Yorna trembled her long eyelashes and looked up at the man beside her.

　It was just an ordinary call, something that felt like it had been spoken hundreds, thousands of times throughout this miraculous encounter—yet, it felt special in this moment.

　――No, to be precise, every call is special if you look at it that way, but this moment’s specialness was distinctly different from any other.

　Because it signified the end of this miraculous time.

「Yes, your Excellency」

　Meeting his gaze looking down at her, she returned the call with one filled with love from her lips.

　Her voice didn’t tremble, and she didn’t let any weak tears spill out; she praised herself for that. In their past farewell, Iris Yorna hadn’t been able to leave him with any words. But every time she looked back at that era through her reincarnation, she often thought of what could have been.

　If there had been a different outcome, she never wanted to leave behind a weak woman’s whimpering.

「It is the opposite of that time. I shall leave before you.」

「Indeed. …It seems you too have come to understand the malice of the human world, your Excellency.」

「That’s right. I’ve learned a lot. …No, I’ve been taught. By many who walked with me, starting with you.」

「――――」

　As he—Yugaldo Volakia—narrowed his sharp eyes, reminiscing about the old days and those who were there, the gentle shimmer in his gaze struck Yorna to her core.

　He was a man who always wore a stern expression except in front of Iris.

　Such a person, would he ever be able to ease the tension from his cheeks or forehead even once after Iris was gone?

　And from now on, after heading to that place between sky and earth, he—

「Do not worry, my star. I have been an exceptionally fortunate person.」

「――Ah」

「I met you and was given life. I walked with you and received blessings. I parted from you, and the mistakes I made, I have now the chance to correct with this reunion.」

　With each of Yugaldo’s words, counting each blessing like that of a beloved person, the anxieties and fears that lay within Iris Yorna melted away gently, unraveling in a manner that was affectionate.

　During those ancient times, Yugaldo’s rage, burned by the loss of dear Iris, triggered far too many tragedies left in the wake of his hatred—the laws of errors vowed to be abolished by Yugaldo’s descendants, the current Emperor of Volakia, known as “The Wise Emperor”.

　To lift the curse surrounding the wolfmen and the earth mouse people was Iris Yorna’s heartfelt wish, and Yugaldo’s final regret before he passed—finally, they could return this world and this era to those deserving to live it.

　For that reason—

「That is true for you as well, my star.」

　Just at that moment, when Yorna was embraced by Yugaldo’s words, she felt a tightness in her chest, as though her innermost feelings were now precisely and completely illuminated.

「Your Excellency… I… I…」

「Even if I have given you something in a way that you do not desire, it is easy to imagine how hard you have worked, regardless of the era. Of course, it would be the same even in your current state. —That is what you must accomplish fully.」

　It was as if Yorna, who was lost about her unnatural existence, was being gently encouraged towards a clearer path to her own form of being.

　Yugaldo was always correct.

　It wasn’t because he was smart or strong. It was because he genuinely considered the one before him, respected them, and wished for their happiness.

　The “Thorned King,” who was feared by more than anyone as Iris Yorna, was a devoted Emperor, sincerely thinking of Yorna, respecting her, and wishing for her.

　Thus, Yugaldo’s words were always correct for Iris Yorna.

　And the fact that such correctness was also true for others besides Iris Yorna was—

「――I shall have to prove that with the rest of my life.」

「A noble cause indeed.」

　To Iris Yorna’s declaration, Yugaldo responded with a smile.

　Deliberately saying little, Yugaldo’s demeanor caused Iris Yorna to narrow her eyes lightly as she gently cupped his cheek with her outstretched hand and lightly pressed her lips against his.

「――――」

　As their lips met, those two, who had faced death in that era and achieved what should have been an impossible reunion, drew as close as possible in this world.

「――――」

　That world’s closest contact continued for a while, and gradually, that distance began to pull apart—Yorna and Yugaldo’s eyes intersected.

　Then—

「――My star, I love you.」

「I too, your Excellency. I cherish you eternally, without fading.」

　As they exchanged a kiss and love’s word spirit, their lips shaped a smile for the last time.

　That was the true conclusion of the story that began in ancient times, “Iris and the Thorned King,” which had continued to delay its ending until now.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　△▼△▼△▼△

　――The day after the conclusion of the showdown with the “Great Calamity” that shook the entire Volakia Empire.

　The threat of the undead, which rampaged across various regions of the empire, was dismissed through the unity of the empire’s citizens who adhered to the iron-blooded laws, and at the forefront stood the figure of Vincent Volakia, the Wolf Sword of Volakia, who clashed head-on with the enemy’s leader while raising the “Sun Sword.”

　Although major cities like the **Imperial Capital** Rupugana, **Castle City** Garkla, **Iron-Blood City** Glalasia, **Magic City** Chaos Frame, and **Cloud Sea City** Mezoleia sustained damage, none suffered catastrophic losses.

　For this reason, despite leaving behind significant scars, the atmosphere enveloping the Volakia Empire was that of triumph.

　Of course, considering what lies ahead, the leadership could not remain basked in victory indefinitely. Reports of damages flooding in from various regions, numerous affairs that leaders had to adjudicate, everything had to be shared, leaving them with no time to sleep.

　Among those reports came a piece of information that slipped quietly in unnoticed.

　It was the news of the passing of one woman who had greatly contributed to the Volakia Empire’s victory over the “Great Calamity” and captivated many with her fiery lifestyle.

　In a room in the temporarily established headquarters of the fortress city, which replaced the collapsed imperial capital, Emperor Vincent Volakia, after hearing the news, fell into an unusual silence, pondering momentarily. Finally, he spoke one word—

「――I see.」

　So he was said to have left it at that.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　△▼△▼△▼△

　With the conclusion of the battle against the “Great Calamity,” the people began to move to regain their original lives.

　The undead army resurrected from the unprecedented disaster had ravaged the land of Volakia, yet the people living on that land held their heads high, standing up one by one, and began to work on reconstruction.

　Witnessing the sight of the people of the empire, Petra Reite was utterly overwhelmed.

「I don’t really like the empire that much, but…」

　She muttered, standing still in the midst of the castle city with her mixed feelings.

　A significant part of the reason Petra couldn’t bring herself to like the empire was her anger at the fact that they forcibly took away her important family member and her beloved, Natsuki Subaru.

　Even without that premise, Volakia leaned towards dislike more than like, but still, to prevent this country from perishing, Petra and the others worked hard to help.

　Even though she thought it was good that the empire had escaped destruction, there was still—

「――Subaru.」

　When she spoke the name of the person she always referred to respectfully as Subaru-sama in front of others, Petra truly felt a deep concern for him, who had perhaps worked harder than anyone, even more than the emperor for the sake of this empire.

　Being the kind and compassionate Subaru, Petra couldn’t help but worry about how much he must have worn himself down in the terrible environment of the empire.

　However, her worry wasn’t just about that; the last blow felt particularly harsh.

「Lady Priscilla Barielle…」

　That name belonged to the woman who inflicted a huge, deep, and painful wound on Subaru’s heart.

　Given their positions, Petra had never exchanged words with her. There had been opportunities. Before the “Great Calamity” occurred, there were ample chances to talk with her in the same camp as they prepared for the decisive battle in the imperial capital.

　However, Petra chose not to approach Priscilla.

　She believed that since she was also one of the candidates for the royal selection from the Lugnica Kingdom, it wasn’t wise to bond too closely with a rival.

　And now, Petra regretted that choice.

　Because by not interacting with Priscilla, she bore no right to mourn Priscilla Barielle’s death, and therefore could not stand beside Subaru and Emilia with the same feelings.

　For the two who were hurting so much, she couldn’t say she understood their feelings.

　That was an incomprehensible regret for Petra at this moment—and then—

「――Oh, Miss Petra, are you alone?」

「Ah, Zikuru-san.」

　Tightening her lips and bracing her cheeks, Petra looked up at the call, and there stood Ziqru Osman, with an abundantly round hairstyle.

　As the “General” of the empire, Ziqru played an important role in the battle against the “Great Calamity.” Despite his status, he treated Petra like a normal person, which made him quite likable.

　Due to his work, Ziqru would likely continue to be highly valued in the post-war era, but it was unusual to see him alone in a place like this. As Petra’s eyes widened—

「I’ve finished reorganizing the troops, so I finally came down to confirm the damages for myself. Even if I’ve heard of reports, I can’t understand things without seeing them in person.」

「I see. The reorganization… I’m not sure of all the details, but thank you for your hard work.」

「Thank you for your consideration. However, comparing my role to those who are energetically acting like Goz and Kafuma, I did not bear as great a burden.」

「I think each person’s efforts are important, so there’s no ranking of who worked harder.」

　Zikuru, in a flustered manner, became even more flustered by Petra’s comment.

　On the other hand, as Petra recalled her concerns for Subaru earlier, she self-reflected on how she had compared his efforts to those of others—the grim Emperor, among them.

　Even though she wanted to see things from the perspectives of those she loved, it was frustrating that she couldn’t.

「But, it must be tough on the Generals. It feels so soon after, yet you have to fly around to other cities.」

「Indeed. The other Generals are addressing things, but the influence of having a General personally appear cannot be underestimated. It affects the morale of the troops and serves as a means of intimidation.」

「I understand that having someone to look up to would make the soldiers happy, but intimidation…?」

「Sadly, it is often the case that in such circumstances… no, especially during dire situations, there are those who try to seize immediate gains or fulfill their ambitions.」

「――――」

　Zikuru, with his eyebrows lowered, further opened Petra’s round eyes.

　Petra understood his acknowledgment of the situation— she instinctively accepted that “as expected.”

　The Volakia Empire chose to unite against the emergence of a great enemy. But once the national calamity known as the “Great Calamity” disappeared, the focus would shift from the nation to the individuals. People would go back to stealing what they lacked, causing theft, and vying for power by any means necessary.

　The Generals Zikuru mentioned were going to serve as deterrents against such issues.

「General Goz left as soon as he confirmed the safety of his wife in the imperial capital. General Kafuma also left immediately after being promoted to General.」

「That’s quite impressive, isn’t it? Everyone was surprised.」

「In the empire, there are only nine positions for Generals. The recent battle left many of those positions vacant… so the emergence of a new General can actually be seen as a rare good thing. General Kafuma likely understood this, which is why he accepted a position he previously declined.」

「What about you, Zikuru-san? Have you received such news?」

「Me?」

　As Petra tilted her head, observing Zikuru’s demeanor, who was praising the others who were mentioned, she questioned him while reasoning that it must have been something significant.

　Since she hadn’t witnessed their fighting prowess up close, Petra didn’t know how any of the Generals had performed. But in terms of having seen Zikuru’s determination firsthand, he had also done quite remarkably.

　There were those who were providing commands from the command center while monitoring the overall situation surrounding the fortress city, and others had continuously clashed with the undead at the frontline alongside their troops. Zikuru’s role bridged the gap between these two, ensuring effective coordination.

　It may have been understated, but without such work, their unity could unravel and crumble apart.

「Myself and the other healers were in the background during the battles, so I felt that even more.」

「…That’s a deeply appreciated evaluation, Miss Petra. Just hearing those words from a woman makes me feel truly rewarded.」

「I’m not saying it lightly…」

「Of course, I understand. But I genuinely feel that way.」

　Zikuru shook his head as Petra felt as if she had been brushed aside, but he now gazed toward the scene of the city with a smile.

「If we’re speaking of rewards, this scene, this result itself is it. When the emperor fled east, I happened to be on a mission in the fortress city. Thanks to that chance, I was honored to accompany the emperor and witness this moment. I am beyond fortunate.」

「…I don’t know. Zikuru-san, you deserve more praise.」

「You don’t understand? Then, Miss Petra, please imagine a cherished someone in that brilliant mind of yours.」

　At that sudden suggestion, Petra let out an “eh” as the figure of Natsuki Subaru, who had occupied her mind heavily, emerged.

　Upon seeing Petra’s response as she did so, Zikuru nodded deeply.

「If that cherished someone smiles as a result of your actions, wouldn’t it leave you feeling thoroughly rewarded?」

「That does… well, yes.」

「It’s similar. As a General of the Volakia Empire, the range of that cherished someone you thought of is likely greater than yours. Therefore, it’s all good.」

　Winking, Zikuru placed his hand over his chest and smiled at Petra. There was no sign of trying to deceive her or meaning something ulterior.

　And thus, Petra quietly looked down, becoming speechless—

「—However, Vincent-sama believes in just merit and punishment. It would be concerning if someone with merits spoke of such selflessness, which may hold back the soldiers from voicing their praise.」

　With that, another voice interrupted in place of Petra, who had fallen silent. When they looked toward the source of the voice, Serena Dracloy strolled in slowly.

　With a noticeable white scar on her cheek, she still retained her striking beauty and gracefully carried herself, accompanied by her acquaintance, Roswaal, which made Petra’s lips curl in dissatisfaction.

　Seeing Petra’s overt reaction, Serena and Roswaal did not miss a beat.

「As always, how do you earn the hatred of someone so much younger than you? If you host someone with disloyalty around you, you can grumble about being stabbed in the back.」

「I wouldn’t hire someone who lacks the foresight to think that far ahead. Regardless of how they look at me, I keep them because they are competent—like you, Petra, and Otto.」

「Your way of thinking is sick, you know? Someday, that may lead to you being undermined.」

　Shrugging his shoulders, Serena exchanged banter with Roswaal, who mercilessly criticized him. For Petra, it was quite entertaining to witness.

　However, in truth, that amusement was starting to fade away.

「Lady Dracloy, you must be busy…」

「The same could certainly be said for the Generals. Do not worry. While it’s true I haven’t slept for three days, rather I feel quite alert. Sleeping is tricky.」

「It seems you aren’t talking about reassuring matters…」

　As she bore a mischievous smile, Zikuru felt slightly intimidated and shrunk back. Meanwhile, Roswaal directed his gaze toward Petra.

　Having intentionally avoided contact with him, Petra stiffened slightly at his gaze.

「W-What is it, Sir?」

「Please do not be so wary. I’m simply worried about you being alone and working too hard. Where is Frederica?」

「…Sister Frederica has been quite busy, so she’s currently resting. After several pleas, she finally took a break.」

　Remembering Frederica, who was asleep without making much noise, Petra thought she would be putting her all into her duties.

　Just like Petra, Frederica worked as one of the healers, and when necessary, she transformed into a beast and dashed through various strongholds on the battlefield as a messenger. Her tireless efforts earned her respect, but as her younger sister, Petra couldn’t help but worry.

　The fact that she was currently resting wasn’t just due to Petra’s pleas, but also because she was finally convinced by Ram and Garfiel.

「I couldn’t help Sister Frederica take a break.」

「Frederica has a strong sense of responsibility. She never meant to overlook you, Petra.」

「――I already know that without you saying it!」

「I see. That sounds right. I apologize for saying too much. —Are you holding up well?」

「…Yes, the Light Magic is working properly.」

　With his somewhat disappointing response, Petra frowned as she replied.

　Petra’s magic technique had been increasing due to her studies under Roswaal. The characteristic of the Light attribute he had taught her was mostly to enhance the strength or vitality of the object.

　While she was still unsure about employing it on others, the effect of her using Light Magic on herself was adequate in alleviating her exhaustion and lack of sleep. Of course, it wasn’t boundless; there surely would be a point of limitation somewhere.

「At this moment, I want to push myself as much as possible. Should I stop?」

「—No, I won’t put a stop to that. Everyone must face moments in their lives when they have to push through their reasoning and common sense with passion. If this is that moment for you, I won’t take it away.」

「…Honestly, I dislike you, Sir.」

　With one eye closed, Petra turned her face away from Roswaal’s piercing gaze.

　Even though he was a maddening opponent, Roswaal often encouraged Petra’s thoughts. It wasn’t just flattery to earn her favor; he genuinely expressed beliefs that reflected his principles.

　This made Petra feel like she could understand Roswaal’s true nature, which drove her to discomfort.

「It’s a difficult master-servant relationship. This sort of existence doesn’t significantly differ between an empire and a kingdom, does it? Don’t you think so, General Zikuru?」

「Given how astute Miss Petra is at that age, it’s no wonder the Baron Meisars’ education is so heated. If sincerity meets sincerity, conflict is inevitable. Of course, Lady Dracloy’s beauty has also been honed through her fierce lifestyle.」

「My, my, you really are a General of the empire. I thought you were a decent man, but look what you’ve done. Don’t go showing such a face that pleases me.」

　While the conversation between Petra’s group and Serena unfolded, Zikuru respectfully bowed at the lady’s comment.

　Petra sighed, witnessing the dialogue between these individuals who possessed such unique perspectives within the empire. —In terms of Roswaal’s essence, it no longer was important what that might be. Since she had come face to face with the man she had avoided, Petra swallowed the poison entirely.

　To that end, she tightened her cheeks, tilted her head upwards at Roswaal, and asked:

「What are you planning to do about Subaru?」

「Hmm」

「Please answer me.」

　With a straightforward yet vaguely lacking in specifics request, Petra directed toward Roswaal.

　For being confronted with that, Roswaal let out a small sigh. He closed one eye again, this time looking at her with the yellow eye— the one that she found less human-like.

　――The unnatural relationship between Subaru and Roswaal deeply etched an impression upon Petra.

　That was related to the inappropriate acts Roswaal had committed in her homeland, Araham Village, and the “Sanctuary,” where Frederica and Garfiel hailed from— this greatly contrasted with how Subaru and the others had almost entirely forgiven him.

　On the other hand, Beatrice and Garfiel, who expressed anger towards his actions, were followed by Ram in a rather unique stance, while Petra and Otto belonged to the group who clearly would not forgive Roswaal.

　Naturally, Petra and Otto maintained a sense of tension whenever they faced Roswaal. They didn’t want to stir up trouble, so the tension was kept simmering gently. It was the fact that Roswaal maintained his calm demeanor amidst that simmering tension that made him so unpleasant.

　However, an uneasy distinction seemed to exist between Petra and Otto’s blue flame directed at Roswaal and the heat circulating between Subaru and Roswaal.

　The phrasing might not be favorable. She didn’t want to accept it. Yet, Petra was convinced.

　Between Subaru and Roswaal lay a secret that could not be penetrated by Petra or anyone else. The shared secret produced a different sort of tension.

　And what that secret leads to would surely, most likely, bring misfortune to Subaru.

「What are you planning to do with Subaru, huh?」

　With Petra’s hostile gaze, Roswaal murmured with a voice barely a whisper.

　It seemed devoid of the usual atmosphere of mockery or derision. However, even lacking a facade, Petra still couldn’t recklessly trust Roswaal.

　To support Petra’s state of mind, Roswaal maintained one eye closed.

「What do you think the right answer is for me regarding Subaru?」

「…Are you mocking me?」

「No, no, that’s not my intent. In fact, I’m quite confounded at the moment… I’m just pondering how I should act toward the Subaru of now.」

「――――」

　As he spoke, Roswaal lightly raised his hands and ignited colored lights at his fingertips. Illuminating red in his right hand and blue in the left, he appeared to be earnestly weighing his upcoming actions.

　Between the red and blue, it was unclear which direction they tilted, what would constitute good for Petra—or no, for the ones she cherishes.

　Nevertheless, if there was one thing Petra could do, it was this.

「If…」

「Hmm?」

「If you make Subaru suffer or feel sadness anymore, I absolutely won’t forgive you, Sir. …No, I will definitely make you regret it.」

　What she would refuse wouldn’t matter to Roswaal; that was something that had been clear after serving him for a year and a half.

　Thus, Petra indulged in the reminiscence of the past year and a half, declaring what she believed would be Roswaal’s most detested action.

　No matter what, she would make him regret it. To that end—

「I will obstruct whatever it is you want to do or plan to do.」

「――――」

　A pause settled between Petra and Roswaal.

　With determination in her face, Petra aimed to craft the fiercest look she had ever displayed. At her direct appeal, Roswaal remained silent.

　The effect of that silence contributing to their contemplation was unknown, but it definitely bore weight.

「…That could pose a significant problem. You seem to be loved much more than I am.」

「…Loved? By what?」

「By that strange force that has led me to decide to resist, of which I have never been able to vanquish.」

　Shrugging his shoulders, Roswaal proclaimed something that made little sense to Petra. Yet, something he muttered struck her as more than just idle banter.

　Indeed, it could be felt that Roswaal was contending with something he found powerless against, a circumstance he felt powerless concerning.

　Even if she were told he was loved by such a thing, it wouldn’t resonate much with Petra.

　Petra simply wanted to be loved by her cherished people.

　And she merely hoped that the ones she loved would remain smiling and happy as much as possible.

　Therefore—

「I hope Emilia-onee-sama and Subaru can stay smiling.」

　Pressing her hand onto her chest tightly, Petra whispered a prayer.

　She fervently wished that this prayer enveloped her loved ones like clouds, protecting them from the pouring rays of something perilous.

　――Alongside that exchange between Petra and Roswaal, Serena kept an eye on the tense atmosphere that flooded the master and servanthood and smiled at Zikuru.

「What do you think? The people of the kingdom show great promise, don’t they? Quite complex and bewildering, just to my taste.」

「…While the beautiful Lady Dracloy is indeed splendid, I cannot say it’s the best of tastes.」