Chapter 84: Kevin and the Apple Trees
“One last question: During your time in the palace with Prince Kevin, did you notice any unusual rituals or behaviors? Anything out of the ordinary?” Abyss asked.
Alva thought carefully, then replied, “No, besides his fondness for gardening, he had no other hobbies, and his behavior wasn’t unusual. The only thing that set him apart was his personality.”
“I see… It seems our investigation should focus on his gardening then,” Abyss said, nodding, his gaze fixed on Alva, a hint of admiration in his eyes. “Thank you for your assistance. I’m impressed by your detailed recollection of the events within the palace. It’s truly remarkable.”
“Protecting the princess is my life’s mission. I was responsible for the palace’s security, so I had to be aware of every detail. The Queen once showed me kindness. She’s gone now, but her daughter has inherited her spirit, her dedication to this kingdom. How could I not do everything in my power to repay that kindness?” Alva said, her voice calm and steady, her words devoid of any pride, as if it were simply her duty. “I would gladly give my life to protect the princess.”
Haina, listening intently, fell into deep thought. The usually timid and easily flustered girl now wore a serious expression.
“It’s getting late. You should return to the camp. I apologize for taking up your time. If I require your assistance again, I’ll visit you personally. And if you need anything, feel free to come here. I’ll help you in any way I can. Oh, and please keep my identity as a necromancer a secret. Revealing it could damage the morale of the Restoration Army. You understand, our school has a rather… negative reputation,” Abyss said, standing up and shaking Alva’s calloused hand. “Rebecca, bring the potions.”
Rebecca, ever prepared, retrieved a bundle of glass vials filled with potions from her bag and handed them to Alva.
Alva looked at them, curious. “These potions are…?”
“I heard about your injuries. I asked Rebecca to brew these potions for you. They’re specifically designed to heal internal injuries. The Restoration Army needs your strength to protect the princess, so please use them,” Abyss said, glancing at Rebecca. “Don’t hesitate. Rebecca is the most talented alchemist on the continent. You might even find her name and her accomplishments recorded in history books.”
“Consume one vial every night before bed. I added some fruit extracts. They taste quite pleasant. You should be fully recovered within three days. Keep the rest for yourself or share them with others in need,” Rebecca explained patiently. “I apologize, I can’t produce a large quantity of these potions on my own. I can’t supply your entire army.”
“No, no, Miss Rebecca, I’m honored that you would brew these potions for me,” Alva said, bowing deeply, her gratitude sincere. She desperately needed these potions. Givia had brought back a large supply of healing potions from the Eastern Empire, but those were for emergencies, for soldiers on the brink of death. Alva wouldn’t waste such precious resources on her own non-life-threatening injuries. Alchemy was underdeveloped in the Ossi Kingdom. Rebecca’s potions were a valuable gift.
“We’ll take our leave then,” Alva said, after thanking Rebecca.
“Mr. Abyss…” Haina said hesitantly. “May I visit you again?”
“Of course, as long as we’re here, you’re welcome to visit,” Abyss said, nodding. “Just don’t disturb Rebecca while she’s working—her experiments can be dangerous.”
“I… I want to see Miss Flora again…” Haina said, blushing. “After visiting the Church’s tomb and retrieving the Fountain’s Draw, I researched Saint Flora out of curiosity. I never imagined I would meet her again. I admire her noble character and her elegance. Miss Flora, could I perhaps… learn from you? I have so many questions… I promise I won’t be a bother!”
“Of course,” Flora said, smiling warmly. “I’m happy to share my knowledge with you.”
“Thank you, Saint Flora!” Haina exclaimed, bowing deeply.
“Please, don’t call me Saint. I’m no longer a Saint, nor am I affiliated with the Church. I’m just a traveler now,” Flora said, correcting her gently. “You can call me Flora. I’m a few years older than you. You can call me ‘sister’ if you like.”
“Okay! S-Sister Flora!” Haina said, her voice filled with joy.
Alva and Haina left the guesthouse. Abyss and his followers remained, discussing Prince Kevin.
“Do you remember the ghoul I summoned earlier?” Abyss asked Flora and Leona.
“I remember, that little glutton. It ate everything,” Leona said, raising her hand eagerly. “I even remember the recipe it mentioned! Human and cow blood, pig fat, and rotten apples!”
“Yes, doesn’t Alva’s information about Kevin’s gardening hobby seem connected to the ghoul’s reaction to the black mud?” Abyss asked, smiling.
“You’re suggesting the Shadowlings are somehow related to Kevin’s gardening?” Flora asked.
“Exactly,” Abyss said, snapping his fingers. “Perhaps they’re growing Shadowlings from trees! Although they’re creations of an Outer God, their components are from this world. This suggests the Lord of Nightmares might not have the ability—or the authority—to create matter out of thin air.”
“And the object he uses to influence this world might be among those gardening tools!” Rebecca exclaimed, her eyes widening in realization.
“Yes! That’s what I’m thinking!” Abyss said, snapping his fingers again, his smile widening.
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