Questions

"So... Alex is it? How is the 1st Heaven?"

Alex flinched. It was a sensitive topic, especially since he wasn't sure how his departure affected everything. Normally, as ascender will gain knowledge to report to the 2nd Heaven and will let everyone know that they are ascending and solve any issues before they leave, but Alex had not only disappeared, but also probably caused a plethora of out-roars.

In such a situation, Alex decided it was best tell a half truth.

"In truth... I left rather abruptly. I didn't have as much time to prepare as I thought I might and had to leave without alerting the populace. This would naturally cause an uproar, but my circumstances were a bit unavoidable. It's a sensitive topic. However, everything was functioning well when I left. The human kingdoms were at peace, the elves and spirit beasts were maintaining a friendly relationship and the demons were not causing trouble. At the time of my ascension, I was the strongest there, but I know the people who were just below me in terms of power. They'll keep the peace. My apologies for not having a more in detail report and any trouble you might hear about from the next ascender."

The king looked a bit troubled. He was happy that the 1st Heaven was at peace, but who knew what someone with Alex's power leaving without notice could do. Quite a lot. However, there was nothing to be done and Alex seemed genuinely sorry.

"Whatever sensitive topic it might be, it must have been worth ascending."

"Indeed it was."

Alex did not elaborate further and the king decided not to question it.

The king looked at Alex, he was quite young. He probably had even better talent than his daughter, something that the king was looking for. He didn't want his daughter to get arrogant.

"If you wouldn't mind, do you think you could spar with Yuki? I'm sure you want to get a feel for the 2nd Heaven. A good fight is always good for acclimating."

[A/N: My naming sense is top notch, f*** you.]

It was true, a good fight would be great for Alex. He had only fought some unintelligent demonic beasts which didn't really help him. This also opened up another topic, one that he expected that he would need a push to get the king to talk about.

"I would love too, provided Her Highness wants to as well. If you wouldn't mind, I really need to stretch and fight an intelligent opponent around my level. However, do you mind if I propose a condition?"

"Go on."

"If I win, could you tell me the reason the guards seem so tense. I noticed it when I walked in."

The king grimaced, it wasn't something he wanted to talk about right now. However, it wasn't confidential and Alex would find out soon enough anyways.

"Alright, I agree to that."

Alex smiled, before turning his attention to the stoic woman who stood. She, like her brothers, had a sword by her side.

He looked her in the eyes, as he questioned whether the spar was okay with her.

She nodded, ever so slightly.

"Then, if you don't mind, my sword is still in the custody of the guards. Once I get it, we can get this show on the road. Thank you for agreeing to my selfish request."

Alex showed sincerity, acknowledging his request as selfish, but not saying anything more than that.

'I like this kid.'

This was going to be an interesting match.