[Chapter 53] Light – Lantern Festival

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People should spend more time on roofs. Light sat atop the Rose Palace. Far off at the Guild, distinguished guests from around Enera gathered for Arther’s funeral. He’d head there later. The view here is great.

The sun had set, yet the Isle remained radiantly lit. Crowds filled the lanterns adorned streets, their cheers echoing through the evening air. A concert was in full swing near the Wall of Legends. You’d never know a storm was coming.

The mealstorm towered the western horizon, lightning crackling over its spinning surface. While hundred feet waves clashed in the Blue Abyss, the nearby docks were abuzz with activity as airships were moved into hangars. Those remaining must be planning to outrun the weather. It’d be empty come midnight.

Light fingered the sheath at his side. He’d recovered the last ninjato, ‘Fang’. It was the sharpest. As for its illusory grace… He drew the weapon and observed the blackish edge. ‘Fever’. With a single scratch, the victim would fall ill. Their temperature would rise, their strength would wither, and their balance would be thrown off. While far from crippling, it bypasses disease resistance and lasts a decent chunk of time. Even Free would be effected.

Agata had apologized, claiming it’d take an enchanter better versed with curses to bring out its true potential. Light hadn’t complained. All my spoils have proved useful, and this one will be no different.

Sheathing the weapon, Light considered deeply. Once the dust settles, I’ll travel to Harakoune. I’ll visit the hidden villages and be immortalized as the greatest ninja ever.

He felt relief at the decision. We’ve just entered Enera and have so much to experience. It’d be a mistake to confess. Romance isn’t even on Hope’s radar. If his feelings was more than a childish crush, they’d endure.

It’s starting. Distant lights were drifting up the Isle’s interior along the Pillar of Enera. Out of concern for the storm, the timetable had been moved up, and lanterns were to be released as soon as darkness fell. Light smiled. Not just lanterns. It was customary for those with the ability to release a summon into the sky. All manner of fantastical creatures accompanied the lanterns: Birds with the wildest of feathers, glowing transparent fish, golden griffins, colorful dragons… Fairies outnumbered others by far. They’re all some can manage.

I should release my own. Light concentrated, and a sparkling, translucent stag appeared. The area below its hooves shone brightly, as if invisible ground was revealing itself. An air dancer. This had been Vanessa’s recommendation.

As it galloping to join the others, the Helix was lit ablaze by the phoenixes perched on its rocks. The fireworks went on for miles. Under their glow, a river of lanterns drifted into the night, escorted by the most wondrous parade. Magical.

Light got up. There are more spectacles to see. Reaching the Guild, he found thousands congregating stalls on the Grey Plaza. Some were still busy releasing lanterns and summons. Arther would be happy. Light was certain the hero would’ve wanted his funeral to be a grand affair.

Weaving through, Light approached the Great Hall. The sprawling building was reserved for Arther Bard’s close acquaintances and their immediate family. As such, it was filled with saints, immortals, and other prominent figures. As Astra’s children, they could mingle in this illustrious crowd. There’s nothing to fear. Siegfried himself had declared no hostilities would be tolerated. With this guarantee, even the bitterest enemies could pay their respect. The last time so many legends were in one place was the Black Banquet…

Within the hall was a wild variety of the finest attires. I must upgrade my shinobi gear. Wandering over-sized rooms, he stumbled on his siblings milling with the Barsal Empire delegation. They’re the only ones we’re familiar with.

Free was questioning Farran, “I read you knew Sola before she traveled to the Black Citadel. Would you mind telling me what she like?”

“I’m amazed you uncovered that obscure detail.” The hero answered. “I did indeed meet Sola when visiting Nolstice. At the time I was a conquerer, and she attracted my attention for the war potential of her creations. I got close to her with idea of recruitment but was disappointed. She’d no interest. It seems the horrors she produced were simply her unrestrained curiosity.”

“So how did this pacifist turn into the Necromancer of the End?”

Farran shrugged sadly, “I don’t have an answer. Many good people fought for the other side. I’ll never understand why…”

Light discretely slipped away. There are people I must meet.

“Quietly escaping?” A soft voice said.

Startled, Light pivoted to find a yellow-haired woman. “The Morning Sun.” He stammered.

“That’s my title, but the name’s Adele.” The smirking immortal corrected. “Anyway, I heard you were visited by the young Vanessa Goldstone. How did that go?”

Is she fishing for gossip? “She dragged me around for a bit and taught me martial arts. We also hunted assassins and werewolves. Nothing besides that.”

“Is that so?” Adele chuckled. “Sounds eventful. Vanessa must’ve enjoyed her stay.”

“I believe she did…” ——Except for that one part. “Why did you chase after me?” Light anxiously changed the subject.

“I was wondering about your future plans.” Adele said.

What’s this? Light relayed his intentions, and Adele nodded, “That’s good. I was worried you might be tempted to visit the Barsal Empire. If so, I was going to advise against it.”

“Why? Would I be unwelcomed?” Light was troubled.

Adele broke into laughter, “No, rather the problem would be the opposite. In a way, Farran’s greatness is his flaw. You’d become an object of fascination. There’d be others like Vanessa, and they’d be far more aggressive. It’s difficult to live with that attention. I’d know. All of us descendants have dealt with the phenomenon. It was particularly bad for Anthem and me, as we were the first inscribed on the Wall…”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to make our homeland seem inhospitable. It’s just that you grew up in the Arctic. In the Barsal Empire, you’d face the isolation of living in Farran’s shadow. That’d be equally unhealthy. I’d urge you, at least until immortality, to forge your own path. There’ll be plenty of time for a homecoming later.” She’s looking out for my interests, Light realized. Adele might be a good person.

Offering thanks, he successfully distanced himself and scanned the room. He was convinced ninjas were present, and he meant to find them. There. Two were conversing in an corner. Making his way over, he stopped dead as he saw another guest. That’s… I have to fetch Hope. There’d be time for his idols later.