Jack of All Trades, Party of None

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I have only lived for about twenty years, but even so, there is one thing I have come to understand.

That is, "There is no such thing as a life without regrets."

Even when you think you've made the best choice, failures are bound to happen.

But at the same time, there are many things you gain from that choice.

That's why, when you're uncertain, it's more constructive to think about what you will gain from the path you choose.

And most importantly, you must put your all into the path you take.

Continue striving to gain much and be satisfied.

To the point where you don't have to imagine the futures you didn't choose.

...Still, if I ever got the chance to start over, I would resist that unfairness.

Grandpa risked his life to give me one more chance.

To repay Grandpa's feelings, and above all, so I never have to go through such a pain again.

I vow once more.

No matter what unreasonable things lie ahead, I will not stop moving forward.

I will devote my entire being to make sure that nothing precious slips from my hands and that I never lose anything again!

After seeing Mr. August off, it was just Shion and me left in the netherworld, and I carved that vow deep into my heart again.

"Alright, let's go, Orun!"

Shion smiled at me, her voice bright and clear.

Time for Shion and me began to move forward again.

――“You know, I think the ‘outside world’ is full of beautiful sights that even this can't compare to.”

――“Orun, are you going to the outside world...?”

――“Yeah. I know there are many problems. But I want to solve them and see the outside world. ...So, Shion, won't you come with me to see all these different sights?”

――“Eh, can I really come along?”

――“Of course! Why would you think otherwise? Traveling alone is lonely, and I'd be happy if you came with me.”

――“I-I want to come along then!”

――“Alright! It's a ‘promise’ then! Let's explore the outside world together!”

――“Okay!”

Remembering the promise Shion and I exchanged in that frost-covered silver world warms my heart.

But at the same time, I feel guilty for having forgotten that promise for nearly ten years and causing Shion pain.

So it starts here.

Everything begins again from here.

“—Ah. Let's go break this world apart (…………), Shion.”

Renewing my spirit, I began walking once more――.

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“—Heavy...”

The day after the battles against the Doctor, a leader of the cyclamen cult, and the judgment of Former Count Claudel—all triggered by Sophie’s engagement scandal—began with a sensation as if something heavy was pressing on my abdomen.

(...Ah, I see. —This is where it starts (....).)

I am fully aware that today is the day I leave Darane.

And yet, I clearly remember what’s about to happen and the events in the netherworld.

It feels a bit strange, but I’m relieved that I haven’t forgotten anything.

As I considered this and sat up, there was Fuuka lying face down, looking comfortable as she slept, just as I expected.

“Mm... mmph...”

Watching her fondly, she gradually sat up.

“...Orun, good morning.”

“Good morning, Fuuka. ...I see. You’re here because you knew this was a branching point through your future sight.”

When I said the word branching point, Fuuka’s eyes widened.

Then her expression turned the most serious I had ever seen.

“—Orun, how are you feeling?”

Fuuka asked.

The same question as before.

“Ah. Perfectly fine.”

When I answered her, Fuuka nodded with a satisfied look.

“Yes. You’ve returned (......).”

“Yeah, I regained my memories and supernatural ability and came back.”

“Good. Welcome home, Orun.”

“Thanks. —Right away, I want you to lend me your strength.”

At those words, Fuuka nodded without hesitation.

“Of course. I am Orun’s sword.”

(My sword, huh? Hahaha. That’s quite fitting.)

I had heard that phrase a few times before, but back then, I had no idea what it meant.

Now, I understand.

She is someone who will fight alongside me.

And—someone who won’t let me run away from battle (...............).