Episode 12: The Flickering Flame
“Son-in-law, what are you daydreaming about?”
I snapped back to reality at Sensei’s voice, my thoughts drifting to past labyrinth explorations.
“Sensei…”
“I understand.”
From the moment I stepped into the Clan, I had sensed a faint yet unmistakable air of decay. As I was led into the room where the Clan Master was said to be, that feeling intensified.
I moved deeper into the room. There lay a boy on the bed, and seated beside him was a young man in a chair. The young man, who would normally have a handsome face, was now marked by exhaustion, looking utterly worn out. The dark circles under his eyes were pitiful.
He held the boy’s hand tightly with both of his, as if wishing for something.
I glanced at the boy on the bed. His face, once resembling that of his brother when he was healthy, had lost so much flesh that he now looked like a lifeless shell. Beads of sweat glistened on his forehead as he gasped for breath.
An elderly servant trembled, whispering, “How tragic.” A female servant nearby could no longer hold back her sobs.
Though they would never admit it, they all knew.
The boy’s life was drawing to a close.
The scent emanating from his body, losing vitality with each passing moment, mixed with the somber atmosphere surrounding his brother and the others.
In Japan, we would describe this feeling as the Stench of Death. It was the sorrow of those approaching death and the grief of those who mourned them.
The true nature of the scent lingering in the Clan was indeed the Stench of Death.
The renowned Clan known as the Old Capital (Bienetta) was led by Chloe Tesoro. Supporting him was his younger brother, Kuroa Tesoro. The two brothers, with their delicate features that could easily be mistaken for those of women, were immensely popular among the noble daughters, to the point that fan clubs existed for both of them. Not only did they take on requests from nobles, but they also willingly accepted general requests, making them beloved figures in the community.
While their origins remained a mystery, whispers suggested that their refined demeanor hinted at noble lineage.
Now in their late twenties, Chloe had taken on the responsibility of caring for his frail younger brother, Kuroa, since he was just fourteen when he debuted as a Seeker.
Though he was now the master of a major Clan, Chloe had faced many hardships when he first became a Seeker. However, he persevered through poverty and the challenges of caring for his sickly brother, quickly rising to prominence.
Eventually, he became the leader of a party and ascended to the rank of S-Class Seeker. Yet, he was never satisfied with just his own success; he continued to support his party members, and together they achieved true S-Class status.
By that time, there was hardly anyone in the area who didn’t know the name Chloe Tesoro. His brother, Kuroa, also showcased his talent as an alchemist, making significant contributions that supported Chloe. Thus, their fame became solidified.
Gradually, the caring and admired Chloe gathered orphaned young Seekers who looked up to him, forming numerous parties.
If you were to ask a typical Seeker what Chloe’s greatest strength was, they would undoubtedly mention his combat abilities, but even more so, his keen insight into people and his ability to recognize and place their talents appropriately. In short, Chloe possessed an extraordinary foresight.
The parties that Chloe guided and assembled quickly grew into renowned groups.
Eventually, the Clan Old Capital (Bienetta) was established, propelled by the recommendations of several famous parties that admired him. Chloe became the Master, while Kuroa took the role of Vice Master.
“Anon, back again? No matter how many times you come, it’s pointless. I must stay by Kuroa’s side.”
“Please don’t dismiss me so easily, Chloe.”
Their exchange felt like that of old acquaintances.
“You’re here about the Sealed Domain, right? You want the Clan to send members to assist. Unfortunately, all of us, including myself, are busy.”
This was what it meant to be met with indifference.
“Busy, huh? I’ve done my homework. The six parties belonging to the Old Capital (Bienetta) should be within reach of the battle in the Sealed Domain.”
Chloe clicked his tongue at Anon’s insistence.
“I dislike that about you. The six parties you mentioned are currently searching for a way to save Kuroa. Therefore, they cannot join the fight.”
At Chloe’s cold refusal, Kuroa, who had been teetering on the edge of consciousness, faintly opened his eyes. He mustered all his strength to speak.
“Brother, please help them. Our Clan has always reached out to those in need. That’s what we’ve been doing all along.”
“Isn’t that right?” He managed a weak smile at his brother before slipping back into unconsciousness.
“You haven’t given up, have you?”
The question sounded almost rude. Yet, I knew Anon was not the type to provoke for the sake of it.
“Of course not!!”
“Then—”
Chloe’s angry shout was met with Anon’s calm inquiry.
“Then why are you here?”
It was a question that struck deep into the heart.
“That is—”
He fell silent, covering his face with both hands. His voice, barely audible, echoed in the room.
I felt Chloe’s pain acutely. He was paralyzed by conflicting emotions. When a person’s heart is filled with such opposing feelings, they often find themselves unable to act. In one sense, he believed in the possibility of saving his brother, but in another, he might have been there to witness his brother’s final moments.
“Chloe, I’m sorry. I spoke out of turn. I just wanted to confirm that you haven’t given up.”
“What are you trying to say…”
Chloe wiped his eyes and looked at Anon.
“I have a way to save Kuroa.”
And then he continued,
“I want you to trust me and them.”
Anon bowed his head, pleading earnestly.