June 21, 2050, in the Azure Calendar.
The summer solstice.
Also the fiftieth anniversary of the hero’s victory over the Demon King.
Every nation, city, and village held grand celebrations that day to honor Aluka’s triumph.
In Alpha City, where Kuber resided, festive decorations filled the streets. Even at dusk, the entire city blazed with lights. The roads buzzed with energy—vendors lined both sides selling goldfish scooping games, apple candy, and shooting galleries. At the fountain square, an opera troupe performed the classic tale of the hero’s battle against the Demon King.
"Young master… is this really alright?"
Nina kept her head down, fingers nervously twisting the hem of her skirt. She’d rarely worn anything but maid outfits her whole life, yet now she stood in a pristine white yukata embroidered with pink flowers—a style reminiscent of kimonos from Kuber’s past life. She looked utterly uncomfortable.
Kuber, dressed in a black yukata beside her, crossed his arms and studied her.
"Look up, Nina."
"Yes, young master."
Slowly, she lifted her gaze, still avoiding his eyes. At that exact moment, a brilliant firework bloomed in the night sky. Its light illuminated her face—a faint blush dusted her cheeks, subtle makeup accentuated her cherry lips and emerald eyes, and her long hair was pinned into an elegant bun. Passersby turned their heads, captivated by her beauty.
Kuber’s heart skipped a beat. After over a decade together, he’d never truly noticed how stunning she was. He feigned shock.
"Wow. Who are you, beauty? Where’s my little maid, Nina?"
"Stop it, young master! Don’t tease me!"
Nina’s cheeks flushed crimson, like ripe apples. Imaginary steam seemed to puff from her ears.
Kuber chuckled, stepping forward to take her hand. He led her to an apple candy stall.
"Two apple candies, please."
"Coming right up! Six copper coins. Thank you!" The vendor beamed, handing over two candied apples on sticks.
Kuber gave one to Nina. They bit into the crisp sweetness together—the tang of apple and syrup flooded their mouths. They wandered the festival, trying every game and snack, until finally reaching the fountain square. The opera had just reached its climax.
**Demon King:** "So you’ve made it this far… Hero!"
**Hero:** "Demon King! Your reign ends now! I’ll defeat you and save this world!"
**Demon King:** "Foolishness! Witness the power of a true Demon King!"
After a fierce clash, the hero’s holy sword pierced the Demon King’s heart.
**Demon King (coughing blood):** "Heh… Foolish hero. Defeating me only invites greater evil."
**Hero (resolute):** "Justice will always triumph over evil!"
The curtain fell. Actors bowed as thunderous applause erupted from the crowd.
……
After the festival, the exhausted pair returned to their inn.
Lying side by side on a plush bed, they stared silently at the ceiling. Kuber broke the quiet first.
"Nina. I leave tomorrow. I can’t take you with me this time."
"I understand, young master. May your journey be smooth."
Her voice was calm, but when Kuber sat up, he saw tears welling in her eyes.
"Don’t be sad. Stay with Seraphina while I’m gone. I’ll visit when I can. I promise—I’ll return the moment I find my father."
"I know… I know. But I can’t control this feeling. I love you, young master."
Tears finally spilled over as she met his gaze, raw sorrow in her eyes. Kuber gently wiped them away with his handkerchief.
"I love you too, Nina. Always."
He leaned in, kissing her softly. They held each other tightly, savoring these final moments before parting.
