396 – The Blasted Mage

That day, at the very moment the story-spinning Black Dragon perished.

A black comet appeared in the night sky above Crown Hall, drawing a great arc. From east to west. Simultaneously, the oppressive weight that had been crushing our shoulders vanished as if washed away.

“The atmosphere… it’s changed.”

Those who had endured the grueling battle felt it instinctively. The blasted mage had won. The Black Dragon was dead, and we… we had triumphed.

“He… he did it! Dae-su, he actually did it!”

“Hmph, after all I’ve done, he better have succeeded.”

“For someone who says that, the corners of your mouth are turned up quite high, Oh Dae-su.”

The players celebrated their victory in their own ways. Chattering, laughing, sharing warmth, meeting eyes. At the story’s end, they had finally accomplished it.

“Big Brother must be smiling down from heaven, so how about we rejoice instead of grieve? Elder Sister.”

“Yes. Irid, you worked hard too… now, come into Elder Sister’s embrace! Let’s spin!”

“I decline. I dec- listen to me for once-!”

Spin, spin, spin.

Much had happened. And a mountain of work lay ahead. But for this moment, at least, all regret, all the stinging, painful memories, were cast away on that comet.

Twinkle, twinkle.

The starry night shone so brightly.

—

The Empire had shed itself of the Black Dragon Crown’s shadow.

Which meant that the various “services” the Black Dragon had provided were also terminated. No more suspiciously intense affection towards the Empire from all creation, no more having the precise talent needed discovered at just the right moment.

The Dragonheart had vanished without a trace long ago, so the Imperial Family’s ‘infallibly capable’ bloodline was now a thing of the past. People with personality flaws or insufficient skills would, inevitably, be born.

If one were to ask if we were ultimately at a net loss, the answer is no. Of course not.

The number of named black mages born from the Black Dragon’s meddling would be drastically reduced. Sudden ambushes by demons and whatnot would cease, and, in fact, the troops at the Eastern Front had been effectively demobilized.

“Heroes of the Eastern Front, we shall repay your dedication!”

“Waaah!”

There was even a victory parade. They traversed Crown Hall amidst the cheers of the citizens. The majority of them were suffering from PTSD, but that would be resolved by time and illusion mages.

Lost gold and lingering wounds, and finally, freedom gained.

Plus minus zero. But since the puppet strings that had bound us so tightly were now cut, a slight plus. That’s what I think.

Now, there is no absolute god driving the story. From here on, we have to craft our own story well.

Thankfully, this moment, this timing, feels auspicious for a fresh start.

The Empire’s power stands at its zenith. The academy’s brightest minds display their talents across a diverse array of fields, and even the fallen Goddess cult is returning to normalcy.

It is precisely during such times of abundance and ease that we must prepare for the future. With this overflowing prosperity, we can resolve societal issues and tackle the challenges presented to humanity, one by one.

Then, without a doubt, a far better world than the one manipulated by the Black Dragon will unfold.

And the first step in that direction is── the long-awaited coronation of Emperor Irid.

—

Within the solemn cathedral, the ceremony proceeds. Irid Crown kneels before Pope Vecchio, and atop his head, a golden crown is placed, radiating light.

The young Pope’s clear voice resonated.

“Receive the coronation. The Goddess has chosen you and approved the request to access the authority of the Emperor, meaning that your name is classified as a type of administrator account──”

“⋯⋯⋯⋯?”

“⋯⋯Po, Pope! Pope! You’re mistaken!”

Flap, flap.

From afar, the Hero Finn and Cardinal Dakiten Julius were in an uproar, their silent screams a cacophony. What came from Vecchio’s lips, stiff with tension, was not the traditional blessing.

So nervous he was, he inadvertently mixed in expressions from “Goddess-speak.”

Vecchio’s eyes widened, and he covered his mouth with both hands, glancing at Irid. He spoke cautiously.

“Sh-Shall we⋯⋯ do it ag-again?”

“⋯⋯No. It’s alright. There’s no need for the Pope to trouble himself further. More important than the expression is the meaning contained within, so if the Goddess has acknowledged my coronation, it is sufficient.”

Irid smiled, reassuring the young Pope, and rose from his seat, crowned, surveying the assembly. All were visible in his blue eyes.

All manner of people from across the world had gathered to witness the birth of a new Emperor.

His family, Elaine and Thred, offered applause filled with joy amidst the solemnity. The Imperial family, once rife with discord, could now display such amicable affections.

The nobles were also present in droves.

The Northern Duke Julius standing beside his family, Roderus glaring at Kim Ruru who fidgeted restlessly, pleading with his eyes to just stay still. Even Envers, disgruntled at being forbidden from wearing his combat attire to the event.

“Waaah, our Emperor Irid is so dashing⋯⋯.”

“Is it really something to be so deeply moved by⋯⋯?”

And there’s me, overwhelmed by emotion and sobbing my eyes out, my family comforting me.

Above all else.

“⋯⋯Heh heh.”

Centra had materialized properly and was participating in the coronation. Her gaze met Irid’s, and she smiled brightly, like a flower blossoming.

That’s right. NPCs could gain physicality.

This materialization is valid until someone shoots a hyper-scaled Pashim Hyeonjeon missile into my head, and beats me to a pulp with a Ascension, Transcendance, Rebirth 3-Combo, then finishes me off with an ultimate skill fired with Goddess-class resources.

His reproductive functions presented no issues, either. No firsthand testing, admittedly, but theoretically verified ad nauseam. Marriage, children, a sweet, happy life together – all within reach.

Not so long ago, they’d fretted Irid would remain a bachelor his whole life… and yet, here we are.

Irid raised his hand amidst the throng. The murmuring din of the crowd stilled at once, an atmosphere of rapt attention settling upon his every move.

The new Emperor declared:

“I shall not merely enrich the Empire. I shall enrich this world.”

“……..”

“Have you ever imagined a non-mage easily kindling a fire? What of a village safe from monsters without relying on knights? Or perhaps, a vessel capable of flight carrying countless souls?”

Emperor Irid Crown peered ever so slightly into a more distant future. The strength of the Empire, born from the cessation of the Eastern Front, was to be used for the betterment of its people’s lives.

His voice painted a vision of tomorrow. The image was so vivid, like a man returned from a century hence, that the people felt as if a new era was dawning.

Hmm.

Eliminating inconveniences, extending lifespans, creating a multitude of pleasures, inventing new technologies. Good things. Good things, but…

I know that utopia will not arrive as a result. Even on Earth, long advanced, incidents and accidents occur. Though eras and technologies may shift rapidly, humanity changes slowly.

But knowing this makes it alright.

For am I not accompanied by a terrifyingly loyal retainer from a past life, an aide of fantastical magic who far exceeds the realm of the masters? If I support him, a better world can be forged.

Let us endure, Irid. My friend.

“—Dream, ye all people!”

Thus did the Emperor of the Empire, Irid, conclude his address.

—

“The Holy Sword no longer has any need of me. I bequeath it.”

“Eh?!”

Bennet resigned from his position as Shadow Hero. The Holy Sword’s authority was then handed over, lock, stock, and barrel, to the hero Finn. Finn, clutching the sword awkwardly, could neither advance nor retreat, his face a picture of misery.

“Why, why me of all people…? Bennet-ssi, you know! You know my circumstances!”

“Precisely because I know.”

“What are you implying…?”

“Didn’t you say that you must continue playing the hero, if only for the sake of the Pope? Even if you intend to quit eventually, the authority of the Holy Sword is needed now.”

Indeed. Perhaps. Finn conceded. But he remained ignorant of the incident’s true underpinnings.

This was due to a clandestine request from Pope Vecchio. Vecchio desired, in exchange for lessening the Saintess’ burdens, to entangle Finn further, lest he consider running off anywhere.

He had no intention of simply crushing Finn under the weight of his power, ensuring he would remain by his side forever. That was obsession, not love. However, an opportunity for a challenge had to be available, no?

After maturing fully as a woman, to challenge the dating scene, and then neatly renounce it, should it not work out.

For that, time was needed. The time for a child’s body to develop into a woman’s!

Love, wait for me.

—

Gordius gathered the academy students in one place. Standing upon the dais, he waved the papers passed to him by Woo Chaerin, and proclaimed:

“We’re going to truly expand this operation. Securing imperial funding, we’ll found a company, construct all manner of mechanical devices – build a corporation leading a new age. Therefore, I propose to you all: I’ll give you jobs and coin. Join me!”

“⋯⋯⋯⋯.”

Silence. Then, the noble faction led by Lady Baek Ryeom departed en masse. They had no intention of working in the field.

“Hmph, as if the Lady would work under *you*! You have some nerve! And what fool would join such a shoddy venture—”

“I believe an investment is worth considering…”

“The Lady will be a wise and astute investor! An investor who stands atop the laborers! Prepare the relevant documents and await my word, Gordius!”

Following them, Baek Seol left as well. She held not a shred of interest.

The remaining academy students buzzed amongst themselves, murmuring, ‘Considering the way that bloke carries on, wouldn’t he drive us like machines?’ A negative sentiment began to spread.

To this, Gordius declared:

“A mechanized electric fire blade, powered by an engine!”

“!”

“Bigger caliber, bigger pistols!”

“!!!”

The extremist swordsmanship and gun kata groups were enraptured, eagerly joining Gordius Company. Romance… was irresistible!

—

Absolutely, positively not Ciel Yurenst – but rather, Bunnygirl Princess – stated confidently in the Redburn ducal reception room.

“I wish to propose a joint performance with magical girls.”

“Get out.”

Roderus refused outright, brandishing a middle finger. He reached into a drawer for a bat, intending to eject this unwelcome guest.

“Oh, come on~ wouldn’t it be fun, Dae-su? It’s like, idol-esque!”

“Moong. Flutter flutter. Pretty.”

“⋯⋯⋯⋯.”

With the little tykes showing such interest, the domestically inclined Roderus had no choice but to retake his seat.

“⋯⋯Fine, I’ll hear the story.”

“Yes. My plan is, at the center of the stage, 『Pure Knight』, that is, the Duke, would stand—”

“No. Just get out. Leave—!!”

Thump thud. The petty commotion continued ceaselessly.

I took a leave of absence from the Academy. My generation of students were nearing graduation, and, truth be told, I was yearning for a more domestic life.

Marriage and travel beckoned, and shackling myself to the Academy every morning was simply out of the question. No more holing up in the house like I did when I was developing virtual reality for TRPGs.

We settled into a life at the peak of the Violet Tower. Spending our days tumbling about and conversing. Tangled together on the enormous bed, with me, naturally, in the center.

Yuri to my right, Selbierre to my left. Yuna completing the formation atop me. It was warm enough that we hardly needed heating.

Yuna, wriggling slightly, inquired,

“…So, your name in your previous life was Han Yul, then? Han being the family name, Yul the given name….”

“No. Han *is* the family name, and Han Yul is the given name. Han Han Yul.”

“The pronunciation is rather difficult. Han Yul, you say.”

“… … … …”

Selbierre looked somewhat sulky. Sharing the name she alone knew felt like having a pet name stolen, and she seemed a little distressed. So, I pulled her closer, embracing her waist.

She shifted for a moment, then nestled her nose near my shoulder, clutching my left arm tightly. Seeing this, Yuri also snuggled closer with a little *thump*.

Who knew such days were possible? I almost didn’t deserve such warmth and comfort.

Aisha, watching our cozy tableau from a nearby armchair, blurted out,

“So if there are two Han Han Yuls, does that make it Two Han Yuls or Han Two Yuls?”

I cringed at the wordplay.

“That’s so unfunny. Truly, bone-chillingly unfunny.”

“Just a stab in the dark, but I hit a nerve, didn’t I?”

“You didn’t.”

Though truth be told, she *had*. I’d suffered enough torment over my name in my student days. Aisha chuckled, seeing my reaction. The little devil, finding such joy in teasing her dad.

I started plotting a counterattack: a mad movie showcasing Aisha’s self-sacrificing moments.

“Hey, Han Yul oppa.”

“Hmm?”

“You… didn’t you say you’d lose your memories? You seem fine.”

“Ah, that.”

Selbierre had been torn to shreds by that boy knight, and I’d used my Fable ability to gather the pieces and reassemble her. Almost turning dust back into a person.

So, the amnesia was just a probable side effect if my Fable were to unravel.

“I said I’d lose my memories if the Fable unravels, I never said *my* Fable would unravel.”

“Huh?”

If my Fable were to simply fade, Centra would have suddenly vanished mid-date with Irid. I could not, in good conscience, declare myself ‘realized’ in such a tenuous state.

My fable is, for all intents and purposes, permanent. Just like the Black Dragon did, if I set up a data center on the edge of the sky, it can keep running even if I have a power outage in my head.

So, essentially, Selvier won’t ever have to experience amnesia.

“Even so, I can’t just leave you as dust. I plan to live with you long enough, then undo the fable effect applied to you and proceed with treatment for a clean restoration.”

“…What. I was needlessly anxious. But, is there a reason to delay the treatment, Oppa?”

“During the treatment period, you see… probably, while my fable effect remains active, it’ll be Selvier with her memories. And when the fable fades, it’ll be Selvier without them. Something like that, you know?”

Then, consider it.

Selvier, from the very beginning, has been Cheetah herself. She’s always been a bit behind the curve on the romance front, and she’s only just now catching up by running hard. If I treat her and she loses her memories again…

While unlocked Yuna and Yuri are off doing this and that, she’ll just be standing there blankly, and only start running again much later.

“I think she’d be terribly disappointed.”

“…Certainly. If everyone else has children and she’s the only one late, she’d be furious, I suppose.”

“Th-that… Well… Isn’t that a bit early to be talking about…?”

Children.

I was overwhelmed by the excitement and fear that word brought. Well, whatever. I did take down the Black Dragon, and nothing threatens us anymore, but… is that okay?

“I think it’s a slow topic to bring up, considering our relationship.”

I, I see…?

“I, me too. I, uh. I’m interested…”

Yuna, too…?

Shouldn’t there be more preparation? I don’t feel like I’m ready to give a child love. And there are so many things I lack. Like, um.

A sterile room for raising a child, elixirs of life extension for prenatal care, tiny clothes, and constellations that can be controlled to use as a mobile. These things still need to be prepared.

“Who on earth prepares those things?”

“Uh-huh. And… you are someone who is perfectly capable of loving others. I, I can feel it now. I’m sure of it.”

“And did you perhaps forget, Mima? I told you to prepare for things in the bedroom. Did you… think you had a right of refusal?”

A chill.

My danger sensor blared red. Why? These are all people I love, and they would never threaten me. There’s no reason for the danger sensor to go off.

I pull up an analysis report to see the details. What kind of danger is it warning me about, the danger detection module?

-Excessive s*xual activity can sometimes be fatal to health.

“………….”

Thump.

Yuna’s hand presses against my chest, Selvier places her hand on my shoulder and raises her body. Yuri silently starts unbuttoning my shirt.

Gazes. Three pairs of eyes looking down at me──

“Aisha! Aisha’s watching! It’s bad for her upbringing!”

“Aisha would have read the room and left long ago, Mima.”

“A-and we also discussed it amongst ourselves. If one of us goes first, we thought someone might get jealous… So. What if, for the first time, it’s fair and we all do it, together.”

“…Though Yuri *unni* seemed suspiciously eager. That’s what we decided. Everyone agreed. Han-yul *oppa*. Except for you, *oppa*.”

“………!!”

It’s getting closer. A warm breath fans my face. My fingertips are tingling and my heart feels like it’s about to explode. This, this is…

I, I’m not mentally prepared yet…!

………

………

The moon looked beautiful.

—

Irid and Centra quietly sipped their tea, facing each other.

Centra would soon formally become Empress, and was already being treated as such by the aristocratic elite and the palace staff. Irid’s love was that certain.

Since they had been able to fully possess each other and share their love, Irid and Centra had shared many conversations. About their lives, about memories of the past.

It was during one of those conversations that it happened.

“—So, Centra. I still feel guilty about you returning to the past and waiting for me. Will you accept my apology?”

“…What? That would have been, the Creator-nim…”

“Hm?”

“Ah. Irid, perhaps… you didn’t know?”

Finally, the mad magician’s lie was caught.

Centra, looking embarrassed, explained her origins and the simulation. Emperor Irid learned that the heartbreaking misunderstandings had all been a fabrication.

Furthermore, he learned the red pill truth that Centra, who had roamed Crown Hall with him a hundred years later, was practically a mad magician herself.

In the days when AI control wasn’t perfect, the mad magician had manually moved a few key scenes.

That the mad magician was the one who ruthlessly cut off the final kiss scene.

Anxious that Irid might leave her after this confession, Centra was met with Irid’s sincere avowal that his love had not changed in the slightest. That he still loved her, and that every moment had been a joy.

“Capital Knights, prepare to deploy.”

He gathered the army first.

Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump.

The army formed ranks before the Purple Magic Tower and pounded on the front gate. At the vanguard stood Irid, clad in full armor, a massive warhammer slung over his shoulder.

Irid, filled with pent-up rage, shouted loud enough for the sound to reach the heavens.

“Get out here and take just one hit, you crazy mage b*stard──!!”

—

Otherworld TRPG Game Master: Main Story

~End~