The avatar of Titaenus arrives at the Capital and speeds toward the Grand Arena. The arena's ward was not meant to keep out a being of such sheer power, and the avatar quickly breaks through - right into the battle between Belemon and Yoshimuri the Third!
"What is this?" the avatar shouts. "Stop this at once!"
The momentary distraction is all Belemon needs to activate a prepared "Time Crawl" spell, which leaves Yosh completely vulnerable to the magician's next attack...
With the prince defeated, Belemon leaves the arena.
"He's just flying away after all that!" Warren shouts in anger.
Mai, however, understands. "He's hurt and he doesn't want to let us see how bad."
The avatar of Titaenus lands nearby. "I'm sorry, I'm a bit confused." Kylie, somewhat recovered from her reaction to the battle, asks him why he came. He tells her that Titaenus felt her alarm and sent him to investigate.
"I'm sorry. I just couldn't hold it in anymore. It...just hurts too much some times." She tells him. The avatar then invites her to visit Titaenus himself for a time, to enjoy the peace of the commune that lives aboard him. Kylie accepts.
Meanwhile, Straxus arrives to greet Ferah, who had also been watching the battle. (shown) "I had heard..." Ferah says, "that something happened. Something bad. That he sacrificed a part of himself to stop a monster. But it's worse. It's left him a monster as well."
"Well, I certainly wouldn't go that far." Straxus comments. "In any case, I am-"
"Straxus," Ferah interrupts. "I've heard of you. Why did you bring me here?"
"I thought that would be obvious. After all, your coming back at this specific time could only have one reason."
"Oh?"
"To enter the Grand Tournament, of course. I thought that, after doing so well last year, you'd try for even greater success. While the Empress herself is quite busy right now, I'd be happy to show you to temporary lodging and make sure you have everything you need until the Gathering."
"...You're not what I expected." Ferah comments.
"Oh? What stories have you been listening to?"
"They say that you are an evil man. Dangerous and not to be trusted."
"Such things are often said of men of power and ambition. There are many who would say our own Empress is evil, but we both know that is not the case. ...Shall we go?"
In a few days time, the Gathering begins. People from across two worlds come together. Artists, craftsmen, scientists, and mages come to display the advances in their field. And, in the middle of it all, the Grand Tournament draws participants and spectators alike.
Anc above, Salio prepares to hold the Inquiry...
To be continued in Vol.32!