After the meeting, I rushed to the dragon landing strip. My destination was the spawning ground. I had to report the meeting contents and conclusions reached to Dora-sama... and that I was commissioned for the search for Crystal’s murderer.
As Dora-sama’s stand-in, I could have my own subordinates. I could send someone else to make the report. But I had my own reasons to go myself.
The spawning ground was located on a small mountain not far from Dragon Roar Mountain. Even though it's small, it's taller than any mountain in this world right now.
Of course, it was heavily guarded. It is one of the most important places in the Dragon World.
Dora-sama had one of the private rooms. Her belly was swelling heavily, and anyone could tell that she would be laying her eggs soon. Anyone could tell that she was full of rage as well.
Her room was fancier than others. But all the furnishings, the custom desk, table, and even the bed were completely destroyed. Clawed and scratched like a tornado had passed by.
The Dragon Race does not share the human concept of husband and wife. Just temporary relationships to conceive children. But the partner you had a child with still holds a special place. Dora-sama and Crystal. Unfortunately I’m not familiar with Crystal… but for her, it might be like losing a lover and comrade all at once. It was hard to guess what it was.
"Laplace? How was it?" "I was entrusted with the search for those who killed Crystal."
Dora-sama gazed at me with a terrifying expression.
"...If you find them, let me know first."
I wanted to answer "yes". But I couldn't. She was exhausted by the pregnancy. She might have a miscarriage if I brought her to the suspect in this state. Nobody would want that.
“If I find them, I’ll kill them in Dora-sama’s honor.”
So I offered instead.
"Alright... bring me their head."
Despite her rage, Dora-sama’ confidence in me remained unchanged. Perhaps I was self-indulgent, but I didn’t believe she would have entrusted anyone else and would have forced herself to go.
In truth, Dora was very angry. A fellow Dragon General, a partner, and a lover.
“I would not let you down.”
My search for Crystal’s killer began.
■
Well, even though I started searching, the Dragon World was huge. Unfathomably large. The problem wasn’t that I didn’t have any subordinates.
I had Dora-sama’s subordinates working for me at the time. But they were trained for the important task of dragon training for Dragon God. They of course lacked the know-how to investigate a murder, so I couldn’t use my subordinates.
And it wasn’t only my subordinates who lacked know-how, but also myself. My initial search efforts were a complete fumble. I rode Saleyakt all over looking for anywhere suspicious. Aimlessly. Going purely by instinct. More or less the same way I searched for prey back in the Demon World. Anyone watching from the sideline would find the lack of aim frustrating.
A few days later, at the Kayos landing strip, someone called out to me.
"Laplace!"
I looked back and found Dragon General Maxwell. I immediately gave him the utmost salute and welcomed him.
"Maxwell! How are you doing?" "It looks like you’re in trouble." "Yes..."
I said and frowned. After a few days, I realized I wasn’t getting any results. Much less results, I realized what I did was meaningless.
“I’m telling you, your methods are too haphazard. You won’t find any leads like this.”
I had no choice but to bow to those words. Even though I knew it myself, I didn't know any alternatives.
“Well, it’s not your fault. Take these two with you for your mission.”
Behind Maxwell stood two strong-looking Dragon Warriors. Not only taller than me, but wider as well. Both physical embodiments of the Dragon Warrior. Maxwell looked even more petite in comparison.
“These two are from the Dark Dragon Team, and they have a talent for investigation. Gora, Scrubava, introduce yourselves.”
Hearing that, the two men made the utmost salute.
“Initial greetings, Laplace-sama.” “Please let us be an extension of your limbs.”
Their eyes left a deep impression on me. Burning for revenge. As I learned later, they originated from the Steel Dragon Tribe. Yes, Crystal’s clansmen. Maxwell originally pulled them from Crystal’s unit.
"Are you sure?"
I couldn’t help my surprise at Maxwell’s generous offer. At the time, I didn't have much of a relationship with Maxwell. The Five Dragon Generals were all so high up the hierarchy, that they had no reason to help me. No, there were reasons.
“Yes, take them and find the murderer quickly!”
Maxwell said, turned his heels to leave the landing. Wondering still, I called out to him.
"Wait...!" "What is it?" "Why did you recommend me for this?”
During the meeting. Maxwell supported Szilard's suggestion for me to lead the investigation.
“Wasn’t I clear at the meeting?” “I wonder if the Dark Dragon Team is more suitable for the investigation than me…”
When I thought about it, it was rather strange. Back then, I was just a young up-and-comer, while Maxwell was in charge of demon hunting. His team was skilled in both fighting and investigation. He was probably stronger than me at the time as well.
Maxwell laughed in response to my question and replied.
“My Dark Dragon Team rode on some of the dragons you raised. They’re all strong-willed but brave. To be honest, you have been a big help. The dragons that Dora trained always came half-beaten and missing claws and fangs. That’s why I was confident in your work.”
“Moreover” Maxwell continued.
“The victim this time was Crystal, Dora’s partner. She’s more worried about this than anyone else, and you’re her most trusted subordinate. That’s why, you’re the best man for the job outside of the Dragon Generals.”
As a fellow Five Dragon Generals, he had a long relationship with Crystal as well.
To avenge Crystal, he was more than happy to lend a hand. Unlike nowadays, there was no such thing as power struggles between the Dragon Generals back then.
“We, the Five Dragon Generals, have fought side-by-side for tens of thousands of years. One of us is gone. It is unforgivable if we don’t avenge Crystal’s death." "Yes!"
I nodded in agreement, but my heart was troubled. An emotion called jealousy swelled in my mind. The closeness of the Dragon Generals, and of the Dragon Generals and Dragon God, was something I could never match.
“If you find someone you can’t handle, call me! I’ll drop everything and come!” "Yes!" "I look forward to your results."
Thus I gained two subordinates. Gora and Scrubava.
■
The two of them started searching for Crystal’s killer with me. With the increase in manpower, our efficiency improved drastically. After all, they knew all about how to find someone in the Dragon World.
The method for finding a suspect hasn’t changed much from the present time. First, investigate the crime scene. Find clues, follow leads, gather testimonies, and chase the perpetrators step-by-step.
Easier said than done. If it was that easy to find a lead, Maxwell who did the initial inspection would have found it already. As the captain of the monster hunting unit, Maxwell was the expert on this subject.
I had my subordinates collect Maxwell’s investigation report. I also visited the crime scene to double-check everything. After compiling everyone’s opinion, I could only reach a single conclusion. I didn't know.
Finding something that Maxwell failed to find. The hurdle was quite high.
I split up my subordinates and had one collect clues and the other collect testimonies. It wasn’t that I didn't trust Maxwell's investigation. But I thought we might find something by doing another search.
Of course, we found nothing. Neither a clue nor a lead. Crystal’s killer should have stood out, but nobody saw a suspect. It really looked like a mutual annihilation between the Gold Dragon and Crystal.
So I changed my mind. If it wasn’t a monster, maybe it was a trap by some person. I couldn’t find anything because someone deliberately erased their tracks. Huh? That’s not something to brag about? Was it obvious? Don’t say that, I did have some searching experience.
Anyways, I changed my method a little. I decided to follow Crystal’s trail instead of the criminal. What was he doing at the Gold Dragon nest? Was he searching for something? The reason for him being there. I should find out.
I found something interesting.
He was researching teleportation under Dragon God’s command. Back then, teleportation was only for crossing the boundaries between worlds… in other words, the technique for moving to another world.
Back then, it was impossible for ordinary people to cross the world’s boundaries. Moving between worlds requires an enormous amount of energy. An amount only available to the gods. It was basically a privilege of the gods.
However, the gods of each world had research on teleportation conducted on their behalf. Because there were incidents of mysterious disappearances at that time. Did I mention that already…?
The research showed that the disappearances had actually been transportation to other worlds. Therefore, the gods ordered for research into teleportation. To figure out the cause of the accidental teleportations.
And in the Dragon World, it was Crystal who was entrusted with that task. However, this was not well-known for some reasons. Keeping the mysterious disappearances hidden to avoid unnecessary anxiety for the general public.
Or maybe to avoid abuse of the teleportation research. Chaos was the leader of the anti-demon faction. If they knew of a way to attack, they could instigate for a war on the demons.
Thinking that, I had a thought. Maybe Chaos killed Crystal. Crystal was researching teleportation. Chaos, seeking a way to attack the Demon Race, tried to obtain the secrets from him. But Crystal refused. During the quarrel, Chaos killed Crystal...
With such speculation in mind, I flew toward Chaos.
■
Chao’s Workshop was on the western border. I remember it as much hotter than Kayos because of its proximity to the volcanic region.
At the workshop, armor was made using high quality materials from dragons and ores. Swords, spears, shields and armors. The Dragon Race fought with claws, but not necessarily with bare hands. Sometimes we also needed weapons against powerful enemies.
I was afraid Chaos’ armor was designed with other races in mind. Such as the demons.
"Laplace... Found something?" "Still investigating." "I see... well, you'll need a rest as well. Take your time."
Despite my suspicions, Chaos welcomed me warmly. Even though he objected to my mixed demon blood during the meeting. Chaos gave me the tour of his workshop despite my misgivings.
"Chaos-sama, I have some questions to ask, do you mind?”
I started inquiring some questions. Or rather, began the interrogation. Thinking back, I was embarrassed how rude I was toward the Dragon General.
"What is it?" “Where were you and what were you doing when Crystal-sama was killed?” "I was here, making a weapon for Dragon God-sama. See, that one, I named it “Dragon God Sword”. It is a sword that can withstand even the mighty power of Dragon God-sama. Even though Dragon God-sama might not need it, I plan to offer it to his child when they’re born.” "I see..." "Any other things you want to ask?"
It was pretty blatant that I was suspicious of Chaos. But Chaos didn't complain. Even his expression was unchanged. If it was for the investigation, he would spare no effort to cooperate. Even giving up his utmost secrets if necessary.
And finally, he said:
"Laplace, feel free to say whatever you need. During the meeting I was emotional, but I never doubted your loyalty to Dragon God-sama. Forgive me."
Finally, Chaos said, patting me on the shoulder.
“I’ll definitely help you avenge Crystal. If you need help, let me know. I’ll try to help you in secret.”
I was ashamed of myself. I forgot the anger that Chaos showed at that meeting. I doubted the friendship and honor between the Five Dragon Generals.
"I will not fail your expectations."
Finally I said, giving him the utmost salute and left.
■
Then I flew everywhere. North to south, west to east. Following the footsteps of Crystal over the last few decades, searching for a lead.
But I couldn’t find one. There was nothing amiss with the Crystal’s trails. Like all the Dragon Generals, he was respected by everyone around him. A paragon of virtue for the Dragon Race. Who would kill him?
I even thought that maybe a Demon Race from another world killed him. However, a demon would find it difficult to survive in the Dragon World. Even if he commited the murder and returned immediately, it would be difficult to leave no trace.
I was at a loss. I never thought I would find nothing after searching for so long.
At the same time, I was growing impatient. Once a year, I returned to Kayos and reported to Dragon God-sama and Szilard, but it was never good. If I had a lead, I would have calmed down. However, after reporting nothing so many times, I grew impatient.
I was entrusted by Dragon God-sama. I promised Dora-sama. But I couldn't do anything, just circling near the start, how could I stay calm?
I searched throughout the Dragon World in a frenzy. Stepping into dangerous places in search for any clues. Red Dragon Nest, Blue Dragon Nest, Black Dragon Nest, Gold Dragon Nest, Earth Dragon Nest. I surveyed everywhere and investigated. Killing every dragon that got in my way. Riding on Saleyakt, with my two subordinates in tow, I toured the Dragon World.
Because I was always rushing here and there. After a dozen years since the start of the investigation, my fame slowly faded in the Dragon World. Although good at training dragons, he was an incompetent mixed race that could not meet the expectations of Dragon God-sama. It was humiliating, but I had to accept it. Because it was true. I cannot meet the expectations of Dragon God-sama, and I cannot clear the regrets of the Dragon Generals.
But I didn't care about my humiliation. I just wanted to live up to the expectations of Dragon God-sama and avenge the Dragon Generals. That was it.
I flew for days, searching, investigating. Day after day. Saleyakt worked hard as well. That day, exhausted, I decided to rest in one of the many mountain caves in the Dragon World.
Wrapped within Saleyakt’s tail, watching the bonfire. I watched it flickering quietly, still. I was exhausted. My subordinates were exhausted. I didn’t want to admit defeat, but the feeling definitely permeated our mental state. Even Saleyakt, who couldn’t speak, looked mentally exhausted.
That was when. Oh, I remember it well.
I can't forget. I can't forget that moment.
Right then. My subordinates were asleep, and I was dozing off, wrapped in Saleyakt's tail.
That was my first encounter. Oh, if I had the power to go back. If I could return at that moment...
No, nothing would change. At that time, the bastard might have looked easy-going, but he was certainly plotting. If I bore my fangs, he would certainly have had a way to defang me.
However, it’s regrettable. He was right there. So regrettable… Ah...
I'm sorry. I got too emotional. Let's calm down. This is an old tale, no matter how many times I recall it, the past does not change.
Yes, he appeared, the bastard, at the entrance of the cave. I still remember his first words.
"Hey!"
Cheerily, he raised one hand and said,
"Looks like you're in a bit of a pickle. Let me help you a bit!”
He smiled like a good-natured person.
After the meeting, I rushed to the dragon landing strip. My destination was the spawning ground. I had to report the meeting contents and conclusions reached to Dora-sama... and that I was commissioned for the search for Crystal’s murderer.
As Dora-sama’s stand-in, I could have my own subordinates. I could send someone else to make the report. But I had my own reasons to go myself.
The spawning ground was located on a small mountain not far from Dragon Roar Mountain. Even though it's small, it's taller than any mountain in this world right now.
Of course, it was heavily guarded. It is one of the most important places in the Dragon World.
Dora-sama had one of the private rooms. Her belly was swelling heavily, and anyone could tell that she would be laying her eggs soon. Anyone could tell that she was full of rage as well.
Her room was fancier than others. But all the furnishings, the custom desk, table, and even the bed were completely destroyed. Clawed and scratched like a tornado had passed by.
The Dragon Race does not share the human concept of husband and wife. Just temporary relationships to conceive children. But the partner you had a child with still holds a special place. Dora-sama and Crystal. Unfortunately I’m not familiar with Crystal… but for her, it might be like losing a lover and comrade all at once. It was hard to guess what it was.
"Laplace? How was it?" "I was entrusted with the search for those who killed Crystal."
Dora-sama gazed at me with a terrifying expression.
"...If you find them, let me know first."
I wanted to answer "yes". But I couldn't. She was exhausted by the pregnancy. She might have a miscarriage if I brought her to the suspect in this state. Nobody would want that.
“If I find them, I’ll kill them in Dora-sama’s honor.”
So I offered instead.
"Alright... bring me their head."
Despite her rage, Dora-sama’ confidence in me remained unchanged. Perhaps I was self-indulgent, but I didn’t believe she would have entrusted anyone else and would have forced herself to go.
In truth, Dora was very angry. A fellow Dragon General, a partner, and a lover.
“I would not let you down.”
My search for Crystal’s killer began.
■
Well, even though I started searching, the Dragon World was huge. Unfathomably large. The problem wasn’t that I didn’t have any subordinates.
I had Dora-sama’s subordinates working for me at the time. But they were trained for the important task of dragon training for Dragon God. They of course lacked the know-how to investigate a murder, so I couldn’t use my subordinates.
And it wasn’t only my subordinates who lacked know-how, but also myself. My initial search efforts were a complete fumble. I rode Saleyakt all over looking for anywhere suspicious. Aimlessly. Going purely by instinct. More or less the same way I searched for prey back in the Demon World. Anyone watching from the sideline would find the lack of aim frustrating.
A few days later, at the Kayos landing strip, someone called out to me.
"Laplace!"
I looked back and found Dragon General Maxwell. I immediately gave him the utmost salute and welcomed him.
"Maxwell! How are you doing?" "It looks like you’re in trouble." "Yes..."
I said and frowned. After a few days, I realized I wasn’t getting any results. Much less results, I realized what I did was meaningless.
“I’m telling you, your methods are too haphazard. You won’t find any leads like this.”
I had no choice but to bow to those words. Even though I knew it myself, I didn't know any alternatives.
“Well, it’s not your fault. Take these two with you for your mission.”
Behind Maxwell stood two strong-looking Dragon Warriors. Not only taller than me, but wider as well. Both physical embodiments of the Dragon Warrior. Maxwell looked even more petite in comparison.
“These two are from the Dark Dragon Team, and they have a talent for investigation. Gora, Scrubava, introduce yourselves.”
Hearing that, the two men made the utmost salute.
“Initial greetings, Laplace-sama.” “Please let us be an extension of your limbs.”
Their eyes left a deep impression on me. Burning for revenge. As I learned later, they originated from the Steel Dragon Tribe. Yes, Crystal’s clansmen. Maxwell originally pulled them from Crystal’s unit.
"Are you sure?"
I couldn’t help my surprise at Maxwell’s generous offer. At the time, I didn't have much of a relationship with Maxwell. The Five Dragon Generals were all so high up the hierarchy, that they had no reason to help me. No, there were reasons.
“Yes, take them and find the murderer quickly!”
Maxwell said, turned his heels to leave the landing. Wondering still, I called out to him.
"Wait...!" "What is it?" "Why did you recommend me for this?”
During the meeting. Maxwell supported Szilard's suggestion for me to lead the investigation.
“Wasn’t I clear at the meeting?” “I wonder if the Dark Dragon Team is more suitable for the investigation than me…”
When I thought about it, it was rather strange. Back then, I was just a young up-and-comer, while Maxwell was in charge of demon hunting. His team was skilled in both fighting and investigation. He was probably stronger than me at the time as well.
Maxwell laughed in response to my question and replied.
“My Dark Dragon Team rode on some of the dragons you raised. They’re all strong-willed but brave. To be honest, you have been a big help. The dragons that Dora trained always came half-beaten and missing claws and fangs. That’s why I was confident in your work.”
“Moreover” Maxwell continued.
“The victim this time was Crystal, Dora’s partner. She’s more worried about this than anyone else, and you’re her most trusted subordinate. That’s why, you’re the best man for the job outside of the Dragon Generals.”
As a fellow Five Dragon Generals, he had a long relationship with Crystal as well.
To avenge Crystal, he was more than happy to lend a hand. Unlike nowadays, there was no such thing as power struggles between the Dragon Generals back then.
“We, the Five Dragon Generals, have fought side-by-side for tens of thousands of years. One of us is gone. It is unforgivable if we don’t avenge Crystal’s death." "Yes!"
I nodded in agreement, but my heart was troubled. An emotion called jealousy swelled in my mind. The closeness of the Dragon Generals, and of the Dragon Generals and Dragon God, was something I could never match.
“If you find someone you can’t handle, call me! I’ll drop everything and come!” "Yes!" "I look forward to your results."
Thus I gained two subordinates. Gora and Scrubava.
■
The two of them started searching for Crystal’s killer with me. With the increase in manpower, our efficiency improved drastically. After all, they knew all about how to find someone in the Dragon World.
The method for finding a suspect hasn’t changed much from the present time. First, investigate the crime scene. Find clues, follow leads, gather testimonies, and chase the perpetrators step-by-step.
Easier said than done. If it was that easy to find a lead, Maxwell who did the initial inspection would have found it already. As the captain of the monster hunting unit, Maxwell was the expert on this subject.
I had my subordinates collect Maxwell’s investigation report. I also visited the crime scene to double-check everything. After compiling everyone’s opinion, I could only reach a single conclusion. I didn't know.
Finding something that Maxwell failed to find. The hurdle was quite high.
I split up my subordinates and had one collect clues and the other collect testimonies. It wasn’t that I didn't trust Maxwell's investigation. But I thought we might find something by doing another search.
Of course, we found nothing. Neither a clue nor a lead. Crystal’s killer should have stood out, but nobody saw a suspect. It really looked like a mutual annihilation between the Gold Dragon and Crystal.
So I changed my mind. If it wasn’t a monster, maybe it was a trap by some person. I couldn’t find anything because someone deliberately erased their tracks. Huh? That’s not something to brag about? Was it obvious? Don’t say that, I did have some searching experience.
Anyways, I changed my method a little. I decided to follow Crystal’s trail instead of the criminal. What was he doing at the Gold Dragon nest? Was he searching for something? The reason for him being there. I should find out.
I found something interesting.
He was researching teleportation under Dragon God’s command. Back then, teleportation was only for crossing the boundaries between worlds… in other words, the technique for moving to another world.
Back then, it was impossible for ordinary people to cross the world’s boundaries. Moving between worlds requires an enormous amount of energy. An amount only available to the gods. It was basically a privilege of the gods.
However, the gods of each world had research on teleportation conducted on their behalf. Because there were incidents of mysterious disappearances at that time. Did I mention that already…?
The research showed that the disappearances had actually been transportation to other worlds. Therefore, the gods ordered for research into teleportation. To figure out the cause of the accidental teleportations.
And in the Dragon World, it was Crystal who was entrusted with that task. However, this was not well-known for some reasons. Keeping the mysterious disappearances hidden to avoid unnecessary anxiety for the general public.
Or maybe to avoid abuse of the teleportation research. Chaos was the leader of the anti-demon faction. If they knew of a way to attack, they could instigate for a war on the demons.
Thinking that, I had a thought. Maybe Chaos killed Crystal. Crystal was researching teleportation. Chaos, seeking a way to attack the Demon Race, tried to obtain the secrets from him. But Crystal refused. During the quarrel, Chaos killed Crystal...
With such speculation in mind, I flew toward Chaos.
■
Chao’s Workshop was on the western border. I remember it as much hotter than Kayos because of its proximity to the volcanic region.
At the workshop, armor was made using high quality materials from dragons and ores. Swords, spears, shields and armors. The Dragon Race fought with claws, but not necessarily with bare hands. Sometimes we also needed weapons against powerful enemies.
I was afraid Chaos’ armor was designed with other races in mind. Such as the demons.
"Laplace... Found something?" "Still investigating." "I see... well, you'll need a rest as well. Take your time."
Despite my suspicions, Chaos welcomed me warmly. Even though he objected to my mixed demon blood during the meeting. Chaos gave me the tour of his workshop despite my misgivings.
"Chaos-sama, I have some questions to ask, do you mind?”
I started inquiring some questions. Or rather, began the interrogation. Thinking back, I was embarrassed how rude I was toward the Dragon General.
"What is it?" “Where were you and what were you doing when Crystal-sama was killed?” "I was here, making a weapon for Dragon God-sama. See, that one, I named it “Dragon God Sword”. It is a sword that can withstand even the mighty power of Dragon God-sama. Even though Dragon God-sama might not need it, I plan to offer it to his child when they’re born.” "I see..." "Any other things you want to ask?"
It was pretty blatant that I was suspicious of Chaos. But Chaos didn't complain. Even his expression was unchanged. If it was for the investigation, he would spare no effort to cooperate. Even giving up his utmost secrets if necessary.
And finally, he said:
"Laplace, feel free to say whatever you need. During the meeting I was emotional, but I never doubted your loyalty to Dragon God-sama. Forgive me."
Finally, Chaos said, patting me on the shoulder.
“I’ll definitely help you avenge Crystal. If you need help, let me know. I’ll try to help you in secret.”
I was ashamed of myself. I forgot the anger that Chaos showed at that meeting. I doubted the friendship and honor between the Five Dragon Generals.
"I will not fail your expectations."
Finally I said, giving him the utmost salute and left.
■
Then I flew everywhere. North to south, west to east. Following the footsteps of Crystal over the last few decades, searching for a lead.
But I couldn’t find one. There was nothing amiss with the Crystal’s trails. Like all the Dragon Generals, he was respected by everyone around him. A paragon of virtue for the Dragon Race. Who would kill him?
I even thought that maybe a Demon Race from another world killed him. However, a demon would find it difficult to survive in the Dragon World. Even if he commited the murder and returned immediately, it would be difficult to leave no trace.
I was at a loss. I never thought I would find nothing after searching for so long.
At the same time, I was growing impatient. Once a year, I returned to Kayos and reported to Dragon God-sama and Szilard, but it was never good. If I had a lead, I would have calmed down. However, after reporting nothing so many times, I grew impatient.
I was entrusted by Dragon God-sama. I promised Dora-sama. But I couldn't do anything, just circling near the start, how could I stay calm?
I searched throughout the Dragon World in a frenzy. Stepping into dangerous places in search for any clues. Red Dragon Nest, Blue Dragon Nest, Black Dragon Nest, Gold Dragon Nest, Earth Dragon Nest. I surveyed everywhere and investigated. Killing every dragon that got in my way. Riding on Saleyakt, with my two subordinates in tow, I toured the Dragon World.
Because I was always rushing here and there. After a dozen years since the start of the investigation, my fame slowly faded in the Dragon World. Although good at training dragons, he was an incompetent mixed race that could not meet the expectations of Dragon God-sama. It was humiliating, but I had to accept it. Because it was true. I cannot meet the expectations of Dragon God-sama, and I cannot clear the regrets of the Dragon Generals.
But I didn't care about my humiliation. I just wanted to live up to the expectations of Dragon God-sama and avenge the Dragon Generals. That was it.
I flew for days, searching, investigating. Day after day. Saleyakt worked hard as well. That day, exhausted, I decided to rest in one of the many mountain caves in the Dragon World.
Wrapped within Saleyakt’s tail, watching the bonfire. I watched it flickering quietly, still. I was exhausted. My subordinates were exhausted. I didn’t want to admit defeat, but the feeling definitely permeated our mental state. Even Saleyakt, who couldn’t speak, looked mentally exhausted.
That was when. Oh, I remember it well.
I can't forget. I can't forget that moment.
Right then. My subordinates were asleep, and I was dozing off, wrapped in Saleyakt's tail.
That was my first encounter. Oh, if I had the power to go back. If I could return at that moment...
No, nothing would change. At that time, the bastard might have looked easy-going, but he was certainly plotting. If I bore my fangs, he would certainly have had a way to defang me.
However, it’s regrettable. He was right there. So regrettable… Ah...
I'm sorry. I got too emotional. Let's calm down. This is an old tale, no matter how many times I recall it, the past does not change.
Yes, he appeared, the bastard, at the entrance of the cave. I still remember his first words.
"Hey!"
Cheerily, he raised one hand and said,
"Looks like you're in a bit of a pickle. Let me help you a bit!”
He smiled like a good-natured person.
