Episode 20

The magic affixed to Miss Heliet was a sorcery capable of slaying a person's immortality, functional only after the sacrifice of many souls to the netherworld, a realm inhabited by demons.

Sacrifices numbering in the hundreds were a necessity, at least.

Throughout this time, I've doggedly researched information about dark sorcerers, yet regardless of where I searched, a biography eluded me, which is to say the details about them had been scrubbed from existence from the very start.

I could inquire with the Nermala cult church about this matter, but that, regrettably, must wait for another occasion.

While savoring milk in my preferred nook within the guild, I observed that most people here were engrossed in their tasks, thankful to someone because of whom we were spared the indignity of consumption on the floor.

I don't know who this generous soul aiding our guild might be; the consensus, however, was that he was a holy knight. I was about to take another sip from my cup when someone seated themselves opposite me.

She was a woman with red hair, braided single and trailing behind, her attire reminiscent of medieval times, toting along a golden sword which she casually leaned beside the table.

"One seldom sees milk ordered while others imbibe ale."

"I've no taste for alcohol."

"Do tell. Barkeep, kindly serve me a glass the same as his."

"Right away, miss."

Upon the milk's arrival, she downed it in a gulp.

"Uwaahhh, my head's spinning."

Predictable, given the excessive sweetness for most.

"Your name?"

"Forgive me, I am Lesoria Floresta, a holy knight."

Her name had a nice ring to it.

"I'm Aksa."

"Aksa, you say? An adventurer here?"

"Indeed, I appreciate the seating arrangement you've facilitated."

"Think nothing of it. I simply enjoy lending a helping hand, pure happenstance."

"Is that so? May I learn what brings you to this city?"

"You? That's overly formal. Call me Lesoria."

"Lesoria."

"I decided to stay upon hearing that Vivia Legal resides here too."

"Vivia? Are you a friend?"

"No."

"Her confidant?"

"Not at all."

"Family then?"

"Far from it, I am her nemesis."

I spewed my milk into the air, or to be precise, onto her chest.

"Aksa, you're quite mischievous."

"It was unintentional. Allow me to clean it."

"As you should."

Extracting a handkerchief, I dabbed away the spill, struggling to contain my flustered expression yet maintaining composure before calling Lulu over.

"What is it, Aksa?"

"Quickly, move the table and chairs to safety."

"I don't grasp your intent, but as you wish."

We'd just evacuated some furniture when Vivia Legal appeared, sword in hand.

"So, the cruel woman finally shows up."

"Lesoria Floresta."

"I've searched for this day to avenge our last encounter."

All adventurers hastily retreated to the fringes. Kazel tried calming Vivia, only to be kicked through the guild's rooftop, his figure vanishing.

"Why must it be me?" he cried out.

Lesoria snatched up her sword and dashed toward Vivia, who charged likewise. At the collision of their blades, a mighty blast sent us all flying.

'Uwaaahh..."

I caught Lulu mid-air, embracing her for protection.

"My guild, no more."

There was nothing further we could do. Ultimately, it would take a significant period to restore the guild.

The responsibility for this place rested with Vivia and Lesoria.

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