Why_me_1373

Everyone dreams of living in a fantasy world—
Magic, swords, kingdoms, and adventure.

But no one talks about the weight of it all.
The fear. The choices. The lives that hang in the balance.

This is a story not of a destined hero, but someone who found himself in a place where fantasy meets reality.
And once you’ve crossed that line, there’s no going back.
"Not every summoning leads to glory."

Ashes of Mana

Stepping into the quiet chapel, I found myself once again standing before the statue of Goddess Glyss.

I stared at her serene expression, thoughts swirling in my head.

_If she's really a goddess… why did she need a mana crystal just to speak with Ramon and the others?_

Something about her doesn't sit right with me—even putting aside the way she stared me down during our last meeting.

"Sir Alve, is something troubling you?"

The soft voice broke through my thoughts. I turned to see Oracle Saya entering the room, her calm eyes gently studying me.

"No… I was just taking a stroll and thought I'd revisit," I replied.

"That's good to hear. I was told you've been appointed as the Royal Accountant," she said with a warm smile.

"Yeah… Kind of weird that I landed that position."

I pulled out my pendant, absentmindedly turning it over between my fingers.

"I don't think it's weird at all, Sir Alve. Everything happens for a reason," she said, stepping beside me to look up at the statue. "We all have something we're meant to accomplish. Maybe your summoning wasn't a mistake after all."

I let out a short chuckle. "That's a pretty optimistic way of looking at things."

After a short pause, I added, "Actually, there's something I wanted to ask you. I've been reading about magic and spells in the royal library, but I thought you might be able to tell me more—about mana, specifically."

"Oh? That's both surprising… and a difficult topic," she said thoughtfully.

"Difficult?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

She motioned for me to follow and began walking toward the large doors of the church. As we stepped outside into the cool evening air, she began to explain.

"Mana is like air. It's everywhere, all the time. Every living—and even non-living—thing contains it to some degree."

That chill I felt on my hand during the time I touch mana crystal for Goddess Glyss's blessing—was that mana?

If it's truly everywhere, then it really must be a fundamental part of this world.

"This world was built with mana," she continued. "It's only natural that we all possess it. Although much about it remains unknown, the old texts agree on one thing: mana has existed since the beginning of time."

"I see…" I nodded slowly, digesting her words.

So it's an omnipresent force, essential for casting spells… Sometimes, this world really does feel like a typical fantasy story out of a novel—but far more real.

"That was a good talk, Lady Saya. I should head back—it's getting dark."

I turned to leave, but just as I reached the door, her voice called out softly behind me.

"Sir Alve… we don't know what the future holds. But always… believe in yourself."

I looked back, puzzled. Her expression remained calm, her eyes kind.

"Nothing," she said with a small smile. "Just something I felt I needed to say. Good night, Sir Alve. Take care."

Chapter 29 - The Oracle’s Words