Basement in『Labyrinth』which the day after the night, suppression operation ended.

In the presence of the consular officials including Milmiet, Lux officially signed a contract to become one of the『Seven Dragon Paladin』.

It would usually take time to be approved by every country, however, there is no turning back.

But it might cause any trouble in New Kingdom of Atismata if the admission for the『Seven Dragon Paladin』 is refused.

Just as Lux was thinking, Celes called out.

“Well then Lux, please allow me to handle this. You, who refused my recommendation were detained. You decided to give in that strong argument.”

Celes’ expression is unusually happy.

“But I don’t want to trouble Celes-senpai.”

“There is no trouble. As far as the Ralgris house is concerned, you become one of the 『Seven Dragon Paladin』. I will be praised and face proudly in front of my father. That’s why I want to help you. ”

“.. Then I will rely on you, senpai.”

When Lux nodded in agreement, Celes was relieved and said,

“Yes. However, there is one condition. Each of the 『Seven Dragon Paladin』 must have an aide. Please let me help you in this too. ”

Aide of a『Seven Dragon Paladin』.

Greif had taken Coral, and Singlen brought old knight Zwei

He didn’t waver.

If Celes, who was the strongest in the academy and well-known in?the history of all member country and the political affairs of their aristocracy supports him during negotiation, there would be no greater help than her.

Lux agreed and finally settled.

“After the end of inspection and some treatment in infirmary, I decide to go in room where Airi and the Triad gathered.”

“Are you sure you want us here? Isn’t it more convenient to talk among family?”

Just as Lux sat on a bed in the room, Celes asked, but Airi quietly shook her head.

It appears that Celes is thankful in Lux and Airi for risking their lives in this fight.

“Is your body okay? You aren’t hurt, are you?”

“I ask a same question to you nii-san, are you okay?”

“....”

For Airi who already returned to her usual self, Lux smiled nervously.

At that moment, Airi suddenly sat on Lux’s lap.

“Wa..!?”

Lux didn’t feel much weight in his legs because Airi is much lighter than him.

Being puzzled by this rare behaviour of Airi, Lux froze in the place.

“.. Don’t be shy now. I have some complaints towards nii-san.”

“Complaints.. on me? What did I do?”

“Because of nii-san, I have terrible memories from yesterday. I’m embarrassed to death from crying in front of all those people. How are you going to repay me?”

While blushing, Airi sat on Lux’s lap and stared at him.

“So, sorry. But, that.. I——”

“Nii-san is truly selfish. It’s aggravating so I gave up on stopping you.”

“——Eh?”

“Nii-san, as the 『Seven Dragon Paladin』, please stop that Singlen. Nii-san’s goals and plans are largely decided on that. I will also assist you as much as possible, such as deciphering an ancient document, and aiding Her Majesty the Queen.”

Drag Knight world rankings.

As Singlen served as vice captain, it is the world-wide rankings showing the capabilities of Drag Knights.

The world rankings of Drag Knights are decided on various achievements such as Abyss subjugation, simulated warfare and strategy carried out at various places.

As a 『Seven Dragon Paladin』 representing the New Kingdom of Atismata to stop Singlen. Fugil needs to be tracked at once.

“..May I?”

“I admit defeat. From the start, I don’t have any hostility towards nii-san. I knew, I already became aware of my feelings——”

Being embarrassed, with a glare in her eyes, Airi stared at Lux.

Upon seeing this, Lux responded with a smile.

“Oh, wow. These two are letting us watch something good.”

“Forbidden love—— Ah, I won’t lose——”

“Yes, I support Airi.”

“——Ha!? Are you serious!?”

When Triad said it while watching, Lux’s face became red with embarrassment.

But, Celes stood face-to-face with Lux and coughing purposely to gain attention as she straightened her chest.

“Then, can you give me more time? Thanks to you, we have been appraised highly in this campaign and got qualifications to get into upper class——but, I decided to decline the offer this time.”

“Eh..?”

“This is what we three decided after discussion. It is still early for us now, right. Even when I fight as 『Black Hero』, I was trying very hard and you reminded me of my lack of strength and naivety.”

“Such a thing——”

“Of course, I’m aware of the gap between our talent and aptitude. However, I want to try again with you all three from the beginning. Therefore when we hit the wall, will you lend me your power as a friend?”

To Celes’ words, Tillfarr and Noct looked at her with determination.

After hearing those words, Lux showed a warm smile.

“——Yes, if you are ok with me, I’m glad to help.”

To Lux’s reply, the Triad replied with a smile and with Celes’ proposal, Airi also participated in the celebration.

After all, the hidden sake was brought out by Pare, everyone who used to be on good terms with him had now become angry at Professor Raigree.

But now, there are many friends who support Lux and Airi.

This became the happiest and the greatest achievement so far.

From now on as a 『Seven Dragon Paladin』, the pursuit of a new dream finally begin.

In the meantime, Lux cherish his life filled with laughter and warmth, and with a great determination to protect it.

***

The next afternoon, in the room where Coral’s presence is not there, Lux was gathering his luggage to return home. Suddenly, there was a soft knock on the door.

When he got up and opened the door, Krulcifer was standing in front of him.

“Congratulations on your promotion.——and great job. Also this time, it seems a lot of things had happened.”

“Thank you. Also, congratulations to Krulcifer-san. ——But, what’s the matter? We have to leave the city soon and later..”

“....”

Ignoring Lux’s question, Krulcifer entered the room.

And quietly sat on the bed where Lux was packing.

“....?”

Lux was slightly confused and sat next to her.

“So a 『Seven Dragon Paladin』. Lux-kun, you’ve become a big deal. When I first met you, you were just a molester and an underwear thief. ”

“No, well.. ——that was an unfortunate accident wasn’t it!? It was a misunderstanding!”

While panicking, Krulcifer smiled and said.

“But you decided, right? You won’t hesitate anymore.”

“..Un. Actually, I cannot suppress my feelings anymore. ”

Five years ago, that day.

Due to Fugil’s betrayal, the future which Lux wanted during the revolution ended in failure.

Lux took action because of the atrocities the royal family was committing.

He understood, he could no longer hesitate.

The 『Seven Dragon Paladins』which is not bound to international treaties and using the power to protect those dear to him.

Stop Singlen’s tyranny who rules like the Old Empire and find the truth regarding the incident five years ago.

The criminal living in the New Kingdom.. as the prince of the Old Empire, what can he do?

He realized that he needs to find a way to walk towards his desires.

Since you seem to be determined, can I say one thing?

Sitting closely to Lux, Krulcifer whispered.

“Lux-kun. Are you interested in the mystery of the ruins?”

“——Eh?”

Those unexpected words made Lux flinch.

“It is better to say that after returning to the new kingdom, I may return to?Ymir?once again.”

“Well, maybe——”

In the past, Lux involved in engagement of Krulcifer and was reminded of something.

“Well, it’s where I came from. I had an urgent call from Einfolk family. Obviously, it’s regarding the political marriage to make connections with upper echelons of the New Kingdom. Hence, I do not know what kind of wind is blowing back home.”

She smiled nervously.

Krulcifer always talks indifferently about her family and home, it seems she had complex feelings about them.

Krulcifer who came from ruins, still somewhere which it seems to have a wall between her and her family.

“Could that mean, it is related to ruins..?”

“I think that the possibility is high. There was a big event in the ruins. So, my presence is needed.”

“....”

Orders were sent to return home immediately due to the changes in Ymir’s ruin and increasing vigilance.

This is a reasonable decision even if the issue was not related to Krulcifer.

“So, that’s why—— I came to consult with you..”

“——Okay, I will go.”

Just as Krulcifer said that, Lux replied.

“Eh....?”

With round eyes, Krulcifer stared into Lux’s face.

“Although I am Lisha’s knight, I will go with you, I think she will allow us to go together.”

“Y, yes, thank you..”

Towards Krulcifer who looked relieved, Lux looked curiously.

“..I’m surprised that you agreed immediately. Is it ok?”

With blushed cheeks, she whispered to Lux with a tone only she can hear.

“Eh? Did you say something Krulcifer-san. Ah, What?”

In the moment of confusion, Krulcifer further pressed her body against Lux.

When Lux turned his face, Krulcifer whispered with a subtle expression.

“——I have a favour to ask. If I’m forced to explore the ruins, you will have to find something that connects to the Arcadia Empire.”

Airi had already shared the information about the ancient document to Lux’s close friends, Relie and Lisha.

On top of that, Krulcifer was concerned about his relationship with Lux. His blood line called “key manager” and the haze’s blood line which he called himself “Creator”.

We may know what kind of mystery lies within when it is revealed.

“However, I just want you to promise me that no matter what I do, don’t abandon me and be there for me——”

Krulcifer who was always calm said in a weak tone.

She was afraid that when the mystery in the ruins is revealed, her relationships with the people around might change.

Lux held the girl’s hand and smiled gently.

“No matter what happens, Krulcifer-san will always be my friend. I promise.”

“—— Thank you.”

Shortly after silence filled the room, Krulcifer gently stroked Lux’s cheek.

Then, as Lux blushed and diverted his eyes, Krulcifer brought her lips close to Lux’s face.

“Ku, Krulcifer——.. san?”

“Don’t worry. This is the advance payment for coming to country of Ymir——”

While feeling the sweet moments with the girl close to him, a knock came on the door.

“....!?”

“Lux-kun. It’s time to say goodbye to everyone in the New Kingdom whom are about to depart——”

When the coarse voice came beyond the door, the two separated in panic.

“Just as we are in our sweet moments, someone came to disturb us.”

While blushing, Krulcifer slowly stood up.

While somewhat relieved, Lux had an awkward expression.