Yamiyo no Hotaru

Chapter 166

 It was noisy and chaotic. In a way, it was even crazy. And if people think about it sensibly, it was reckless.

 In the dark night, they stayed outside without making a sound or letting any light out, not seeing, not hearing, not saying anything, never looking up at the moon. They only wished for the sunlight of tomorrow to come... That was supposed to be the only thing that those beings, not much more than primates, could do.

 So it was originally a reckless attempt. Having a bonfire outdoors, roasting meat, getting drunk, singing and dancing wildly. It was like a suicidal act. However, they were allowed such unimaginable extravagance. From this day on, those who had acquired this fertile land...

 Later known as the capital of the Central region, they had made their own the land promised to be the most fertile in the Far East.

 People are celebrating joyously. Songs of celebration are being sung. Those who have gathered from many hidden villages, those who have wandered aimlessly through barren lands, those who have been persecuted and exiled, are now celebrating in a new and safe place. It is the beginning of a ritual that will later develop into a festival of prayers and growth. Truly a happy occasion.

 ...Among the crowd, there was one lone crow sitting at a distance.

 "..."

 "What's wrong? Why are you making such a gloomy face at a celebration like this?"

 A man who had been sitting on a log, sipping fruit juice, naturally sat down next to her.

 He had a handsome face, was dignified and intellectual. He was the same as the most important person to her, but unlike the positive 'him', he exuded a frivolous coldness that made her feel inexplicably guarded.

 "It's not good to have such a sullen face at a celebration. It ruins the mood and, worst of all, you might step on someone's toes, right?"

 With a meaningful declaration, the man directed his gaze towards the center of the festival. Around 'him', the one who had accomplished great deeds and was surrounded by grateful villagers, local leaders gathered, chatting animatedly. Despite outwardly appearing carefree, 'he' seemed to be calmly deflecting their attention, but she could sense the weariness built up over years of acquaintance.

 "The celebration of great deeds marks the beginning of political strife. Those who have surrounded 'him' will now vie for leadership. It's ruining what could have been an inspiring story."

 "Disgusting..."

 What were they doing? Couldn't they just be genuinely happy in the moment? While it's true that all's well that ends well, this certainly ruined everything.

 "Oh well. They've always been the kind of people to do whatever it takes to survive... In fact, you could say it's prudent of them not to have fallen out with each other until now. They understand that there's time for politics, and now is that time."

 The man declared, almost as if he were speaking of someone else's business, sympathizing with 'him', who was caught up in it all.

 "And you, too."

 "...Me? Why?"

 She tilted her head, wearing a puzzled expression at the remark from the leader of the wandering specialized in hunting down deceitful monsters. She couldn't understand why she would be involved in such an ugly whirlpool.

 "You're one of his oldest comrades, with an important role even in this critical situation. His trust in you is immense, and your accomplishments are great. Rewards and influence are promised."