The news of the Elder Beast’s subjugation swept not only through the northern frontier but across the entire Kingdom of Rundell. Predictions arose that northern expansion would now accelerate, drawing all manner of individuals toward the region.
“Rumor has it that there are even those calling for the complete extermination of all named monsters that have long obstructed the frontier’s development. Some nobles are even recruiting those who participated in the recent subjugation.”
Such talk spread throughout the royal capital, and even nameless warriors began flocking to the North in pursuit of glory.
While the people were stirred into fervor, the kingdom itself adopted a more cautious stance, deliberating whether they should indeed proceed with subjugating the remaining formidable threats. However, with so many acting ahead of any official decision, the debate spiraled further into discord.
“…It seems that the lack of casualties is what has made matters so complicated.”
Seated in the corner of a tavern, a man remarked to his companion. He was unarmored, bearing only a dagger at his waist. As he idly combed through his long, dark hair with his fingers, he continued,
“Had the subjugation of the Elder Beast resulted in many wounded or slain, the discussion wouldn’t have escalated to this degree. But because there were no casualties at all, people now believe that the other great monsters can be felled just as easily.”
“I understand that, but the real question is—how was it defeated?”
The one who responded was a woman draped in a black robe. She appeared to be in her early twenties, her dark hair framing a face that bore a languid expression. There was something about her—an air that might lead others to call her a witch.
“Saying there were no casualties tells us nothing about the actual method.”
“I’ve looked into that as well. The Elder Beast’s movements were halted by a certain Holy Knight, after which knights and heroes struck it down.”
“A Holy Knight…?”
“Yes. And not just any knight—one who was only recently appointed. A battle-hardened warrior who spent years fighting in the East.”
“Battle-hardened, you say?”
The woman scoffed, unimpressed.
“But that’s the East we’re talking about, isn’t it?”
“We may focus on the North, but there are also forces in the East and South dedicated to fighting monsters. While the North is undoubtedly the most critical front, that doesn’t mean all of the kingdom’s strongest warriors are gathered here.”
“So, you’re saying this so-called ‘battle-hardened’ knight was simply strong?”
“That seems to be the case. The official report was written by another Holy Knight—the one who led the subjugation force—so it’s possible they deliberately downplayed their peer’s contributions.”
“Are you impressed by this Holy Knight?”
“Yes. I spoke with warriors who were present, and they all confirmed that his blade dealt a decisive wound to the Elder Beast.”
At this, the woman pressed a hand to her lips, deep in thought.
“…Have you investigated this individual further?”
In response, the man reached into a bag at his side and produced a bundle of documents.
“You certainly came prepared.”
“That is my profession, after all.”
Taking the documents, the woman skimmed through them. Soon, something caught her attention.
“Hah… I see. So, he set up traps beforehand.”
Her gaze lingered on a particular section—not only detailing the Holy Knight, but also mentioning the hero who had worked alongside him.
Whether he noticed her reaction or not, the man continued,
“Yes, through some form of magical preparation.”
“…This magic intrigues me as well. But for now, I have a grasp on the situation.”
“I appreciate it.”
“The payment will be handled the usual way?”
“Yes, as always… Though, may I ask you one question?”
“You want to know what I intend to do with this information, don’t you?”
The woman met his gaze directly. The man nodded.
“Indeed. Do you plan to head North?”
“That’s right. There is something I must achieve. To reach that goal, I need to be in a place like the North—where battles against monsters are fought.”
“I see.”
“You almost sound disappointed.”
“You’ve been a valuable client for some time. It’s only natural to mourn the departure of a loyal patron.”
“A man of your talents will hardly struggle to find new business. Even without me, you’ll manage just fine.”
“Perhaps… Well, let us end our discussion here. So then, to the North?”
“Yes. I’ve already vacated my lodgings.”
“You’re well-prepared… I wish you good fortune.”
With that, the man departed. Left alone, the woman let out a small breath.
“Yes… I must go north. There is something I must accomplish.”
Her resolve hardened, tension running through her body. What she sought—what her eyes were fixed upon—remained unclear.
“Just you wait… I will claim everything in my way, in my own manner.”
Rising to her feet, she left the tavern and stepped onto the bustling main street.
Her path led north.
Just before exiting the royal capital, she caught sight of a group of warriors gathered at the city gate, preparing for their journey. They too seemed to be heading for the North.
“There will be more like them soon enough,” she thought, blending into the crowd as she passed through the city gates.
Her footsteps were firm, resolute.
Even as strangers turned to glance at her, intrigued by her presence, she paid them no heed.
Quietly, with an unwavering fire in her heart, she continued onward—to seize what was hers.