Chapter Text
Once they crossed the Hollow’s barrier, the world shed its familiar skin.
Canyons carved by time stretched endlessly ahead, their walls embedded with jagged Ether crystals that glimmered like frozen starlight. Rusted pipelines pierced through the rock, snaking across cliffs and vanishing into shadow. Sparse cacti clung stubbornly to life, their silhouettes warped by the Ether haze.
Caesar swept her gaze across the terrain and grinned.
“Alright,” she said. “We’re in the Hollow.”
Belle raised her hand and pointed forward.
“Everyone, follow this route. We’ll descend deeper into the Hollow from here.”
She added calmly, “I’ll monitor the path in real time.”
The engines roared as they moved.
A moment later, Fairy’s voice cut in.
[Fairy]
Obstacles detected on the road ahead.
A collapsed slab of metal lay sprawled across the path—but beneath it was a narrow gap, barely enough to clear a motorbike.
Without hesitation, Caesar leaned her bike sharply. The others followed, tilting nearly sideways as they slid under the obstruction, sparks scattering beneath them.
Caesar laughed as they emerged.
“Piece of cake!”
The laughter hadn’t fully faded when Fairy warned them again.
[Fairy]
Warning: Dangerous structures detected above the road ahead.
Up ahead, a broken metal bridge loomed—twisted, corroded, and trembling under its own weight.
Then—
The bridge began to collapse.
Metal screamed as it tore free. The group accelerated instantly, ducking low as the bridge crashed down behind them. They slipped under the falling wreckage just in time.
Lucy groaned over the comms.
“I can’t stand sand in my hair…”
They pressed onward, but Ether crystals now crowded the path, jutting out like crystalline fangs.
Lighter slowed slightly, awe creeping into his voice.
“There’re more and more Ether crystals the deeper we go…”
Belle frowned.
“Ether concentration levels are rising. Stay alert, everyone.”
As the road curved, a massive structure came into view.
Belle blinked.
“…Huh? There’s a huge building ahead.”
Caesar hummed thoughtfully.
“Looks like an oil refinery.”
Then she smiled faintly.
“Big Daddy once said this place used to be incredible.”
Warning signs and tangled pipes filled the road ahead, each turn offering only a narrow gap to slide through.
They entered the refinery.
At the same time, Fairy spoke again.
[Fairy]
Warning: Fire detected on the road ahead.
Jets of flame erupted from ruptured pipes, scorching the air. The riders weaved instinctively—ducking beneath bursts of fire or swerving toward openings where the flames briefly died down.
It was dangerous—but manageable.
They burst free from the refinery at last.
Lucy slumped forward slightly.
“…That was a tough trek.”
Caesar raised an eyebrow.
“Really? That’s all you’ve got?”
Lucy snapped back,
“Just focus on your driving, okay?!”
Caesar sighed and shook her head, refocusing on the road.
Ahead, the path narrowed sharply.
Belle warned,
“Careful—it’s getting tighter up ahead!”
As they climbed the narrow incline, Caesar’s smile returned.
“Hang on tight, Proxy!”
They reached the peak—
—and the ground vanished beneath them.
The bikes soared downward before crashing onto solid ground moments later.
Then—
The earth trembled.
Belle looked around sharply.
“What was that sound?”
Rocks tore loose from the canyon walls, hurtling toward them. The riders swerved desperately as debris rained down. Dust swallowed the air, small stones battering armor and metal alike.
And then—
Everything went black.
Sound cut out, as if reality itself had muted.
...
Some time later—
Caesar shook Eous urgently.
“Proxy! Proxy—wake up! Are you okay?!”
A faint blue light flickered within Eous, gradually stabilizing as Belle regained control.
Caesar exhaled deeply.
“…That impact was nasty. Is your Bangboo alright?”
Belle rubbed her head and looked around.
Lighter and Lucy were gone.
“I’m fine,” Belle said slowly. “How about you?”
Caesar nodded, though her expression was grim.
“A few scratches. I’ll live.”
She paused.
“But it’s just us now. Lighter and Lucy are missing.”
She frowned, recalling the moment.
“When that boulder fell, the ground collapsed beneath us—formed a massive sinkhole. When I woke up, we were already here.”
Fairy spoke again.
[Fairy]
Master, due to severe spatial distortion caused by tremors, your current position deviates from the planned route. Recalculating.
Additionally, a significant energy release was detected on both sides of the road prior to the rockfall. Proceed with caution.
Belle tapped her chin.
“A significant energy release… an explosion?”
Caesar mirrored the gesture.
“There were old oil facilities nearby…”
She sneezed suddenly.
“…Huh?”
She looked down.
Glittering dust clung to her clothes and skin.
“What’s this? I got covered in it when we fell.”
Belle blinked and examined Eous.
“…You’re right. Eous is covered in it too.”
She rubbed some off and inspected it closely.
“…This is Ether powder. The residue left after a pure Ether explosive detonates.”
Her thoughts raced.
The Outer Ring shouldn’t have access to advanced Ether weaponry. And the city would never deploy something this dangerous here.
So how did it get into the Hollow?
Belle looked up sharply.
“Caesar—someone sabotaged us. This explosion was intentional.”
Caesar clenched her fist.
“Who?! The Vanquishers?”
Pompey’s face surfaced in her mind.
He told me to give it my all… he wanted a proper challenge.
“…Would he really go that far?”
My voice broke through the radio.
“He wouldn’t.”
I was watching with one eye closed, an earpiece tucked in place.
“And even if he did—this incident alone is enough to shut down the race.”
Belle startled.
“Big bro? How are you seeing this? I thought you were watching with Uncle William?”
I chuckled awkwardly.
“I lied to him that I was going to use the bathroom..."
Clearing my throat, I continued.
“The drone caught everything. But the race is still ongoing—no intervention.”
“Worse,” I added, peering at the feed, “the broadcast’s been tampered with. None of this footage is ours. Even the Overlord visuals are fake.”
“They swapped the feeds. Don’t think this will stop us from winning the Tour de Inferno.”
Belle nodded grimly.
“The enemy is deliberately blocking information from the Hollow.”
Her thoughts shifted.
“…And Ether explosives appearing in the Outer Ring. Could they be targeting Cinder Lake?”
Caesar’s eyes widened.
“Cinder Lake?!”
“Yes,” I confirmed. “That theory holds.”
Belle turned to Caesar.
“You’re the leader of the Sons of Calydon—and our client. What’s the plan?”
“We can withdraw and report this immediately, or—”
Caesar cut her off, fist clenched.
“That’s obvious, Proxy. We’re heading to Cinder Lake.”
“We’re not sitting back while this unfolds. If we protect Cinder Lake, we’ll handle the rest later.”
Belle smiled.
“Understood. Phaethon will follow your decision.”
I smiled faintly to myself.
Looks they made up their mind.
I instructed to them.
“Belle, Caesar—go. Regroup with Lighter and Lucy.”
They nodded and moved into the rubble, searching.
I removed my earpiece and exhaled.
Now it’s my turn.
I snapped my fingers.
In an instant, my clothes shifted—my signature cloak shortening to my upper back. A high-collared combat jacket formed around me, its material swallowing light. An obsidian bracer and pauldron locked into place on my left arm, glowing faint violet in the darkness. Slim, utilitarian pants secured my daggers, buckles on my thigh holding a compact med kit. Obsidian knee guards. Heavy boots, grounded and steady.
Charcoal black on the outside and with it glowing a dark-violet beneath.
I secured my mask and gloves.
Didn’t even know the cloak could adapt like this.
I glanced back at the tampered footage.
“…So,” I murmured.
“Is it my time to strike?”
I stepped forward and spoke softly.
“Exchange.”
After finishing the transmission with Wise, Caesar and Belle pushed their way out of the rubble, moving swiftly through the shattered terrain toward Lighter and Lucy.
Ethereals rose to bar their path.
Caesar cut through them without slowing—shield braced, blade flashing—until two familiar figures emerged through the dust ahead.
She straightened and announced, voice loud and unmistakable,
“I have arrived!”
Lucy’s eyes widened.
“Caesar! And the Proxy?!”
Then her expression twisted into a scowl, one hand settling on her hip.
“Seriously—what took you so long?!”
Caesar ignored the complaint entirely.
“Are you two alright?”
Lighter nodded firmly.
“Boss, we’re fine. But that collapse earlier wasn’t natural. The Ether surge pattern—it was caused by Ether explosives.”
Caesar’s grip tightened around her sword and shield.
“That’s the same conclusion we reached.”
Her gaze sharpened.
“Someone’s trying to harm Cinder Lake. We need to get there—now.”
Lucy raised a finger.
“Hold it. If you’re going to Cinder Lake, you’ll need bikes.”
Fairy spoke immediately.
[Fairy]
Note: Coordinates of three intact motorbikes have been detected.
Caesar smiled, a short laugh escaping her.
“Perfect. Proxy—take us there.”
Belle nodded and led the way, dismantling Ethereals as they advanced.
Ahead, a lone figure stood atop the ridge—watching the scar left by the explosion below.
They halted at a distance and hid.
Caesar frowned.
“…That’s Mors. Why isn’t he with the Overlord?”
Lighter narrowed his eyes.
“Boss, he’s got binoculars. He was watching the mountain’s base—right where the explosion occurred.”
At that moment, Mors’ communicator crackled.
Pompey’s voice came through.
“Mors. Status report. Have you located the Sons of Calydon?”
Mors adjusted his binoculars.
“Reporting in, Boss. I’ve been monitoring their route as instructed. No visual confirmation yet.”
Pompey sighed, sounding almost disappointed.
“Still no sign? Those youngsters always talked big. Now trouble hits, they can’t handle it?”
He coughed harshly.
Mors stiffened.
“Boss… are you alright?”
Lucius scoffed over the channel.
“Heh. Mors, of course the Overlord’s fine. Didn’t you see him cut down those Ethereals with one slash?”
Pompey snapped back.
“Lucius. Enough flattery.”
His tone hardened.
“After all these years, you still haven’t shaken those bad habits—running at the first hint of danger, underestimating enemies when victory’s within reach.”
“As second-in-command of the Vanquishers, that attitude makes you unfit to lead.”
Lucius sighed, sounding contrite.
“I understand, Boss. I’ve always been slow to learn. Without you, I’d never have even glimpsed Cinder Lake.”
Pompey cut him off.
“That’s enough.”
After a pause, he added,
“In the past, you’d have fled at the mere mention of the Tour de Inferno. This time, you insisted on coming. That alone is progress.”
He turned back to Mors.
“Keep watching the Sons of Calydon. We’re close to Cinder Lake.”
The transmission ended.
Lucy whispered urgently,
“This is bad. The Vanquishers are way ahead of us.”
Caesar looked away slightly.
“…But Pompey didn’t know about the explosion.”
Belle tapped her chin.
“Is it just me, or does something feel off about Mors?”
“The explosion caused a massive landslide. The smoke and dust are visible even without binoculars.”
Caesar’s eyes widened.
“Proxy—you’re right.”
“Anyone seeing that would’ve raised the alarm. Even if Mors was spying on us, it’s strange he didn’t report it.”
Lucy hissed,
“Caesar—quiet!”
Mors shifted suddenly.
“…Huh? Who’s there—?”
They burst from cover.
The fight was brief and decisive.
Meanwhile—
At Cinderglow Lake, the finish line of the Tour de Inferno.
Magma flowed like a living river, Ether crystals gleaming along its edges.
Pompey looked down at the lake.
“The Sons of Calydon talked big about a showdown.”
He sighed.
“…This has been disappointingly dull.”
He weighed the Sparkstone in his hand.
Lucius stood beside him.
“Boss, you might have a soft spot for Caesar—but if they’re this useless, it’s their own fault.”
Pompey chuckled and tossed the Sparkstone into the lava.
“Heh. Dull isn’t always bad.”
“At least Cinder Lake will be safe for a few more years.”
The Sparkstone sank.
Then—
Ether crystals erupted violently from the magma.
Instead of dispersing Ether, they multiplied it.
Pompey froze.
“What—?! Where are all these Ether crystals coming from?!”
Lucius smiled.
“The Ether Aggregation Catalyst accelerates crystallization of free-floating Ether.”
“City enterprises developed it to boost production. And here—at Cinder Lake—it works beautifully.”
Pompey turned slowly.
“…Lucius.”
Lucius’ grin widened.
“That’s right. I replaced your Sparkstone.”
“Cinder Lake will be extinguished soon.”
“Oh—and one more thing.”
Purple liquid dripped from his mouth.
“Ether concentration will spike dramatically.”
“Especially for those with weak Ether aptitude.”
Pompey staggered, chest tightening.
“…You poisoned the water.”
He gripped his sword.
“Lucius—how dare you—!”
He lunged.
Steel flashed.
Lucius barely dodged, screaming as he clutched his face. He staggered back, one eye ruined.
“How dare you give me another scar!”
Pompey dropped to one knee, crystals creeping across his face.
“…You monster.”
Lucius sneered.
“Even corrupted, you still cling to strength.”
Pompey glared at him.
“I once had high hopes for you. I was blind.”
“Do you know what colluding with city Ether corporations will do to this land?”
Lucius laughed, madness seeping into his eyes.
“Did you really think we shared your outdated ideals of freedom?”
“The weak have no place in this age.”
“With Ether, I’ll establish a new order—a kingdom under my rule.”
Then—
“Under your control?”
Lucius stiffened.
A hand seized his throat and lifted him off the ground.
I emerged from the shadow, having switched places instantly.
“You talk about strength,” I said calmly, “yet I’ve seen countless people like you—chasing power for their greed.”
“The truth is, everyone is weak.”
“So tell me—who truly has no place in this age?”
Lucius snarled.
“A Void-Hunter…! Why are you even here?!”
He takes out an concealed knife and tries to stab me, but before he strike I slapped it out his hand. Metal clanging on the floor.
“I came for the Tour de Inferno.”
My grip tightened.
“I didn’t expect a snake among the racers.”
I looked to Pompey.
“What should I do with your former right-hand man?”
Pompey chuckled weakly.
“He’s no longer that.”
Then, meeting Lucius’ gaze,
“Let this be a lesson. Victory means nothing if danger still breathes.”
“At the first sign of risk, you fled—like a dog with its tail between its legs.”
He nodded to me.
Lucius screamed, eyes full of rage.
“Pomp—!”
Crack.
[You have defeated mischievous traitor of Overlord Pompey: Lucius]
His body fell limp.
I extended my hand.
“Awaken.”
Shadows wrapped around him. When they receded, he stood reborn—green hair, jester’s garb, horned cap that points upward.
[Alarm]
Lv.1 Knight
You may bestow a name.
“…Loki.”
Loki recoiled.
“How dare—once I get my hands—”
Snap.
His head slumped.
I called out.
“Lux. Umbriel.”
Light and shadow bowed.
“Yes, my liege.”
“Teach him how our family behaves.”
Lux giggled.
“As you wish.”
They dragged Loki into the shadows.
I exhaled.
At last.
I knelt beside Pompey.
“I’m sorry I wasn’t here sooner.”
Pompey chuckled weakly.
“It’s fine. I wanted to see justice done.”
“…And I’m honored the Black Knight of New Eridu watched the Tour.”
He coughed.
“I won’t last much longer.”
“…What of the Sons of Calydon?”
I looked away briefly—then smiled.
“They’re on their way. Something delayed them.”
Pompey relaxed.
“Good.”
I stayed with him as he spoke of retirement, of hopes for Cinder Lake’s future and the people of the Outer Rung.
I listened—smiling—
But my heart ached, knowing that Pompey will soon be turned into an Ethereal.
Not long after—
The Sons of Calydon arrived.
I heard Belle’s voice through the comms.
“We’re almost there—Cinder Lake is just ahead!”
When they spotted me, they waved.
“Proxy!”
Their relief vanished the moment their eyes landed on Pompey.
His breathing was ragged. Ether crystals had crept further across his face, glowing faintly. Still, a small smile tugged at his lips.
“I knew you young’uns would make it…” he rasped. “But…”
Lucy rushed ahead and stared into the lava pit.
Her eyes widened.
“Something’s wrong with Cinder Lake!”
“What on earth happened here?!”
The Ether crystals—those that had erupted earlier—had multiplied. What should have been molten flow was being strangled by crystallized Ether.
I spoke evenly.
“It was Lucius.”
Pompey coughed violently, trying to rise.
“He’s… right… Lucius… betrayed me…”
Caesar grabbed his shoulder.
“We’ll get you out of here—now! We can deal with this later—”
“No.”
Pompey’s hand clamped onto her shoulder with surprising strength.
“There’s no time.”
He met her eyes.
“Caesar… listen to me.”
“You must protect… Cinder Lake.”
Then he shoved her away.
Ether erupted from his body.
Pompey screamed.
His eyes turned white. His body convulsed violently as a glowing core burst from his chest. The ground trembled as he began to rise—his sword and motorbike lifting alongside him.
Cracks spread across his flesh.
Glowing Ether crystals burst outward, encasing him—layer after layer—until his form vanished within a radiant cocoon.
I stepped beside Caesar, daggers drawn.
I already knew.
Then—
A motorbike roared into existence.
Its black frame had transformed into white Ether-metal, Etheric fire spewing from its exhaust. It landed violently and surged forward. We scattered as it circled the cocoon like a predator.
The cocoon pulsed.
Then shattered.
Smoke billowed away to reveal an Ethereal.
What had once been Pompey now stood transformed—his head shaped like a helmet with a V-shaped visor, two horns angled forward. Four floating exhausts hovered behind him. A core burned in his chest, connected to a larger exhaust embedded at his heart. A tail lashed behind him.
The bike was suddenly seized mid-motion.
The Ethereal lifted it overhead. Etheric flames roared—then quieted.
He mounted it.
And charged straight at me.
I blocked and countered—but his tail whipped out, knocking my strike aside. The bike roared again.
I leapt back, clicking my tongue.
Daggers won’t cut it.
I brought them together.
They reshaped into a katana as my helmet enveloped my head.
“Careful!” I called. “It’s focused on me!”
They nodded.
We attacked in sequence, wearing him down—until he lunged again.
I blocked, skidding backward.
I charged forward, only for him to spin his bike, circle, and change direction instantly. Lighter and Lucy slammed into him from both sides.
“Proxy!”
I jumped onto their backs, sheathing my blade.
Shadow gathered at the tip.
In a single breath—
I unsheathed.
The slash rang like shattered glass. Space fractured. White cracks spread outward, revealing a void beneath.
His head was severed.
Then it regenerated instantly.
Caesar and Lighter were thrown aside. I was seized and hurled across the ground.
The Ethereal growled.
He revved, then launched upward—before crashing down, obliterating the ground in smoke.
The smoke parted—
Not from wind.
But from a sword slash.
The bike was gone.
In its place—his sword and a massive sledgehammer, thrusters blazing along its sides.
He sheathed the sword and charged.
The hammer screamed past my helmet.
I exhaled.
Too close.
Then came the sword—left, right—forcing me into relentless evasion. I slashed his Achilles.
No effect.
He sheathed the sword and slammed the hammer down.
I retreated.
Right… I'm going against an Ethereal that was once Pompey, his human muscles don’t exist anymore.
I should aim for the core.
The Ethereal circled us, trailing light. At the center, he raised the hammer.
When it struck—
Ether surged inward.
The world pulled toward him.
My footing slipped—but Caesar and the others shielded me.
“Proxy!” Caesar shouted. “This is our only chance!”
I nodded.
“Thanks.”
As the Ether vanished into him, I broke from cover.
He slashed—
—but struck an afterimage.
I came from another angle.
My katana rested in its sheath. Shadow condensed to a single point.
Then—
I drew.
The slash tore through his core and carved through the buildings behind him. Space itself split—then it slowly sealed.
Pompey’s Ethereal form split in two.
It collapsed.
The green glow of his visor dimmed.
I separated the katana back into daggers. My helmet dissolved.
I sighed.
As expected of the Overlord.
Should I make him a shadow…?
I shook my head.
Not right now, Cinder Lake comes first.
We turned toward Cinder Lake.
The lava level was dropping.
Belle’s voice trembled.
“…Cinder Lake… in a few minutes, it’ll be gone.”
Lucy laughed bitterly.
“Ha… ironic.”
She wiped her eyes.
“Even with the Sparkstone—it’s too far. There’s nothing we can do.”
Lighter stared silently.
“Without oil… what happens to the Old Oil Field?”
They looked defeated.
I glanced at Caesar.
She stared at the Sparkstone in her hand.
I know that look.
She clenched it—and ran.
“Caesar?!” Lucy shouted. “What are you doing?!”
She revved her bike and leapt onto the metal tower.
Lucy and Lighter sprinted for the ladder.
“Don’t be stupid!”
“You’ll die!”
“Caesar—stop!”
She drove toward the lava, destroying Ether crystals along the way. Thoughts ran through her mind.
You’re right, Lucy.
We could leave.
But what about those who can’t?
She launched—
Time slowed.
Caesar dismounted midair.
She pointed the Sparkstone downward.
She glanced at us.
Don’t look at me like that…
I’ll get scared.
She closed her eyes.
The shockwave tore through the Hollow.
Lava surged upward—towering—saving Cinder Lake.
Then—
Silence.
Lucy collapsed, sobbing.
“Caesar… you…”
I knelt beside her.
But—
She’s still here.
[Skill ‘Perception’ activated]
“There’s a spatial fissure!” I shouted. “Something’s coming!”
A roar echoed.
A fissure split open—
Caesar burst through, bike blazing.
She landed cleanly.
Scratched her head.
“Yo. We meet again.”
I smiled.
“Welcome back, Overlord Caesar.”
Her eyes widened.
“…Wait—what?!”
“You saved Cinder Lake.”
Before Caesar gets to cheer, Lucy smacked her.
“Never do that again!”
Caesar laughed.
"Okay, Okay! Let's return, I want to tell Big Daddy about this!"
We all smiled and nodded. We went back where Pompey's Ethereal form is. I reminded the others with a smile to my face.
"Do you guys want to see something cool?"
Caesar blinks, then nods.
"Sure."
I walked over to Pompey's body and extended my hand.
"Awaken."
They look with awe as shadow's begins to envelop his body as it starts to rise in the air and taking the shape of a sphere of void. Purple cracks starts forming along it's smooth surface, then it bursts.
The shadow took the shape of Pompey’s Ethereal form—
but it was no longer the same.
A long leather coat draped over its frame, unmistakably reminiscent of the one Pompey wore in life. Where Armageddon had once been emblazoned across the back, a new name now stood in its place:
TERMINUS.
Beneath the letters was the image of a dragon, its wings spread wide, twin daggers crossed at its sides.
The helmet remained—drawn from his Ethereal form—with its sharp V-shaped visor and forward-facing horns. The rest of his body was encased in pitch-black armor, fractured by glowing cracks that pulsed with neon light, as though something vast and restrained churned beneath the surface.
Beside him rested his motorbike.
The white Ether-metal had been swallowed by blackened alloy, its engine rumbling low and heavy. From its exhaust poured purple Etheric fire, flaring with each breath it took—less a vehicle now, and more a living extension of the shadow itself.
He slowly descends and as he lands, he looks at his hands.
"So I'm alive..."
He stretches, then opens and closes his hands.
"I feel like I'm in my prime again."
Then he looks at the others, then at Caesar.
"Ah, little girl, it seems you're the Overlord now. Congratulations."
Caesar then grins.
"I told you that I'll take that title for myself!"
He laughs.
"Of course! I knew you would taken my title sooner or later!"
Then-
[Alarm]
Lv.1 General
You may bestow a name.
I smiled.
"Your name is now, Erebus."
They were happily chatting, until I clapped my hands together.
"Ok guys. How about we return to the starting point and tell the others?"
They blink and nod.
"Good idea."
Erebus waved to the others before returning into my shadow.
While I follow Caesar and the others, I hummed.
Now that I'm thinking about it, he looks kinda like Mourne.
I climbed in the back of Lucy's motorbike and we headed back.
Later, at the starting point of the Tour de Inferno...
The crowd roared as we returned.
“Caesar! Caesar! Caesar!”
Caesar looks around, a smile plastered on her face.
Then Jolly Jessica came out from the crowd and walked towards her. She stops and raised her arm.
“Behold—the new Overlord!”
The cheers glow louder.
The Outer Ring burned brighter than it has before in that moment.
Marking the Tour de Inferno to an end.
Three days later…
I called out to Belle as I set the three duffle bags we’d brought into the Outer Ring down by the car.
“Belle, Uncle William—everything’s packed. We’re ready to head home.”
Uncle William glanced around, a quiet sadness settling on his face.
“I’m going to miss this place.”
Belle patted him on the back, grinning.
“Don’t worry! Next time big bro and I come here, we’ll bring you along!”
Before he could respond, Caesar came jogging toward us, breathing hard—then exhaled in relief.
“Proxy! Good thing you haven’t left yet. I almost missed seeing you off.”
I blinked.
“Caesar, I told you—you shouldn’t have rushed over here.”
“With everything that happened in the Old Oil Field,” she said, straightening, “you need to be there to keep things under wraps.”
Erebus appeared on my shoulder and nodded once.
“He’s right. That responsibility comes with being Overlord.”
Caesar waved her hand dismissively.
“I told you—I’m just the acting Overlord.”
She looked away slightly.
“That day… even though Pompey threw in the Sparkstone that had been replaced by Lucius, he was still the first to reach the finish line. The Overlord title should’ve been his.”
Belle spoke up.
“Caesar—speaking of Lucius, any news on his whereabouts?”
I cleared my throat. Erebus reached into my shadow and dragged Lucius—now Loki—out into the light.
He bared his teeth.
“Let me go! You’re not my boss anymore!”
Erebus smacked the back of his head.
“Behave.”
Loki fell silent and melted back into my shadow.
I chuckled awkwardly.
“Lucius is one of my shadows now. I won’t explain how. But from what I gathered—after Mors realized Lucius was gone, he fled and disappeared.”
I folded my arms.
“But you found things on your end too, right?”
Caesar nodded.
“I did. I sent Piper and Burnice after him, but like you said—no trace. We did find what he left behind, though. Evidence shows he was colluding with an Ether corporation in the city.”
She continued, steady and composed.
“Combined with Eous’s recordings, the Old Oil Field bikers know exactly what he did.”
A small smile touched her face.
“Proxy… I didn’t get to thank you properly after we left the Hollow. We saved Cinder Lake because of you.”
I waved it off.
“I didn’t do much. It was all you. When Cinder Lake was about to go out, we’d almost given up hope.”
Belle nodded—but her expression dimmed.
“Big bro’s right. All I could do was watch you ride away… getting farther and farther from us.”
Caesar laughed softly, trying to lighten the mood.
“Hey—don’t get emotional on me! I was saved by the fissure hidden under the vent!”
She tilted her head.
“Isn’t it crazy how that turned out?”
Belle tapped her chin, curiosity replacing sadness.
“Actually… a friend of mine who specializes in this said that because of the complex air currents around the fissure, Ether particles can’t stabilize—so it can’t be sealed.”
She continued, thoughtful.
“Between the natural gas flow and Ether balance, the fissure won’t move. It’s probably been there for decades.”
I smiled, recalling an old story.
“‘Diving into the fiery sea, the hero returns valiantly.’ When the first Overlord reached the lake… maybe that’s where he jumped in too.”
Caesar laughed.
“So the legend was true? That’s one hell of an unexpected discovery.”
Erebus nodded.
“If the first Overlord hadn’t survived, I wouldn’t exist.”
I chuckled.
“Back then, people didn’t know about the fissure. The first Overlord probably forgot what happened—so that’s where the ‘divine intervention’ came from.”
Caesar smirked.
“Still—having a fissure right in the middle of Cinder Lake already feels pretty divine to me.”
Belle looked at her.
“Do you remember what happened after you fell in?”
Caesar hummed.
“Bits and pieces. It’s hazy. I thought I was done for.”
She searched for the words.
“I thought I’d lose consciousness fast… but I felt everything. The pressure. Every second as I passed through.”
Her eyes lit up.
“Then I saw a light—and instinctively pulled the throttle and went for it.”
I folded my arms.
That explained the roar of her bike when she burst out.
“The next thing I knew,” she said, “I was right on top of you all.”
I smiled.
“It was unbelievable. After ‘We meet again,’ the next thing you said was, ‘Lucy—if I die, the Sons of Calydon are yours.’”
Caesar looked away, sighing.
“She’s always wanted to lead. But I’d never said it out loud before.”
She snorted.
“I thought she’d be relieved—but that lunatic jumped up, yelled ‘I don’t want your leftovers!’ and slapped me.”
Belle laughed softly.
“It’s your fault. Lucy was still crying when we left the Hollow.”
Caesar exhaled.
“Yeah… she was terrified. But now everything’s fine. Me—and Cinder Lake.”
She straightened, smiling.
“Since you’re heading back, let me give you something.”
She handed Belle and me a Sunflint.
“You’re always welcome in the Outer Ring, Proxies,” she said, hand to her chest.
“May you rise from the ashes.”
Then she gestured behind her.
“Everyone’s bummed you’re leaving. Go say your goodbyes.”
My eyes lit up.
“Oh—Sunflint.”
She nodded proudly.
“All of the Sons chipped in.”
Then she sulked.
“I didn’t get to help with the weaving. Just designed the center.”
Belle hugged it gently.
“Thank you. We’ll treasure it.”
She walked off with Uncle William—then turned back suddenly.
“Oh! Big Daddy came after hearing about the Tour de Inferno. He’s helping hold things together—and wants to meet you.”
Erebus hummed.
“It’s been a while since I spoke to him.”
I smiled.
“I’ll talk to him after Caesar.”
I turned back.
“How are things in the Old Oil Field?”
Caesar sighed.
“Rough patch ahead. Oil’s flowing—but the Vanquishers might get wild without Pompey.”
Erebus clicked her tongue.
“With me gone, they’ll lose discipline.”
She looked at me.
“May I have permission to lecture them later?”
I laughed awkwardly.
“I’ll think about it.”
Caesar hesitated.
“I know I’m not cut out to be Overlord.”
I shook my head.
“You are. One step at a time.”
She smiled.
“I won’t waste Pompey’s efforts.”
Erebus scoffed.
“You better not.”
I cleared my throat.
“And Perlman?”
“He’s improving,” Caesar said. “Still unconscious—but I’ll let you know.”
“Thanks.”
She laughed and slapped my back.
“Safe travels, Proxy!”
I waved goodbye to Caesar and made my way toward Lighter.
He looked up as I approached, a grin spreading across his face as he extended his hand.
I clasped it firmly—our palms meeting with a sharp clap.
“Heading out, Proxy?” he asked.
“Yeah.”
He nodded, then smiled wider.
“Safe journey back. If you get the chance, say hello to my dear predecessor—and brother—for me. Tell him I’m always free for a duel.”
I raised an eyebrow.
“What about me? From what I can tell, I’m up one–zero.”
Lighter laughed, clenching his fists.
“Next time you’re in town, I’ll win for sure.”
I smiled as I stepped away.
“I’ll be looking forward to it. And I’ll let Billy know you’re free anytime.”
Lucy was next.
She greeted me with a grin.
“Heading back already, Nocturne? We aced the Tour de Inferno thanks to you. Seriously—how much would it take to recruit you into the Sons of Calydon?”
I waved my hands dismissively.
“I told you not to call me that. Even if I am a Void-Hunter.”
I smirked.
“And I’m far too valuable to be bought.”
Lucy laughed.
“Hah! Fair enough. Safe travels!”
I hesitated, then asked quietly,
“How are things with Caesar?”
She blinked, then frowned.
“W-What? Did she complain? Still mad about that slap?”
I shook my head.
“She’s not angry.”
Lucy crossed her arms, scoffing.
“Tch. I don’t care what that boar thinks—but personal grudges can wait. Caesar needs to lock in her position as Overlord.”
She smiled confidently.
“Big Daddy and I will back her up. Lighter knows what to do if things go sideways. We’ve got it covered.”
I nodded, relieved.
“Good. I’ll leave her to you, then.”
She waved as I walked off.
“Later, Proxy!”
Big Daddy stood a short distance away—the red boar-thiren looming calmly.
I approached and extended my hand.
“Big Daddy. I’ve heard a lot about you.”
He studied my hand, then my face—before smiling and shaking it firmly.
“So you’re the new Void-Hunter.”
He folded his arms.
“Didn’t expect all this before the Tour de Inferno. Thought Caesar still needed more time.”
He chuckled.
“But kids grow up fast.”
Erebus, who’d been silent, hummed.
“I always wondered where you’d gone. I was buried in paperwork.”
Big Daddy laughed.
“Glad you’re doing well, old friend. Bet you wanted to retire like I did.”
Erebus sighed and gestured toward me.
“At least I’m free of documents. I’ll stay with the Void-Hunter for now.”
I cleared my throat.
“You used to lead the Sons of Calydon, right?”
He nodded.
“That’s right. I’m retired—mostly handling business these days.”
His gaze sharpened slightly.
“But those kids could use a hand. Not because they’re weak—because they made deals with the wrong people.”
“I’ll step in,” he said calmly. “Clear the air.”
I smiled.
“I can see why you’re respected in the Outer Ring.”
Big Daddy laughed heartily.
“Hah! You’re damn right.”
He bumped his fist toward me.
“Safe travels.”
I returned the gesture.
“Likewise.”
Piper greeted me with a warm smile.
“Heading back to the city? Thanks for everything, Proxy.”
“I’m glad I could help.”
She sighed contentedly.
“You youngsters never run out of energy. Hope we work together again.”
I glanced at the old restaurant—now rebuilt, alive with laughter and conversation. While I’d stayed in the Outer Ring, I’d helped Kasa restore it.
It looked… much brighter than before.
Piper followed my gaze.
“Don’t worry about Cheesetopia. We’ve got it covered.”
I chuckled.
“I know. Just hard to leave.”
She waved me off.
“That’s enough from me—the old lady needs her rest.”
“Take care.”
Burnice was waiting at the bar upstairs.
“Heading back to New Eridu already?” she said cheerfully. “Safe travels!”
“What’s next for you?” I asked.
She tapped her chin.
“Back to our camp by the freight station. You were curious—why not tag along?”
I waved my hands.
“I’ve got somewhere to be. And I don’t think my sister wants to stay longer.”
She nodded knowingly.
“Right—don’t want your Bangboo worrying.”
She grinned and pulled out a sealed Nitro Fuel, chilled perfectly.
“Then take this. A goodbye gift.”
I smiled.
“Thanks, Burnice. See you around.”
“Later, Proxy!”
Finally, I returned to Belle and Uncle William.
“Sorry if I kept you waiting.”
Belle shook her head, smiling.
“Take all the time you need.”
Uncle William eyed the Nitro Fuel in my hand.
“Planning to drink that, Wise?”
I handed it to him.
“Nope. Let’s go.”
They nodded, climbing into the car.
As the engine started and the Outer Ring faded behind us, I took one last look back—
At the people who’d stayed behind.
At the place that had nearly burned away.
And at what remained...
As I drive, the view beyond the window feels like an endless, unrolling painting. With each bump of the road and turn of the wheels, the barren desolation of the Outer Ring slowly gives way to the layered colors of New Eridu.
I glance at the rearview mirror.
“I can’t see Caesar and the others anymore,” I say quietly. “That must mean we’ve almost left the Outer Ring.”
Belle smiles, quoting me in a playful tone.
“Mr. Wise~ Leave the sightseeing to me and keep your eyes on the road.”
She looks ahead, her voice softening.
“But it really was nice of Caesar and everyone to escort us all the way to the edge.”
I sigh, my thoughts drifting back.
“It feels like Cinder Lake was on the verge of dying just moments ago… and now we’re driving home, listening to music.”
I pause.
“It almost feels like a dream.”
Belle blinks and tilts her head.
“Is something wrong? You sound… a little emotional.”
I hum, my fingers tapping lightly against the steering wheel.
“…Even though we proved the fissure exists through its effects, without Caesar’s gamble there really was no other way to save Cinder Lake.”
My grip tightens slightly.
“But seeing her fall—feeling that helplessness…”
My voice lowers.
“I never thought I’d have to experience that again.”
“…Just like that time.”
Belle stiffens.
“Big bro…”
I exhale slowly.
“Belle…”
I glance at Uncle William, sound asleep in the back seat, and a faint smile touches my lips.
“You have to admit—moments like this really make it clear we’re family.”
I chuckle softly.
“We’re probably thinking the same thing.”
The road ahead feels familiar.
…We’re not heading toward Sixth Street.
I turn the wheel gently.
“This is the edge of the city,” I say quietly. “Eous and Fairy are here too. It’s time.”
Without another word, the Random Play service vehicle leaves the main avenue and turns onto a quieter road.
Fairy’s voice sounds out.
[Fairy]
Master. You have deviated from your planned route. Recalculating a new path home.
“No need,” I reply calmly. “We’re on the right path.”
I look ahead.
“The road we’re taking now… is the real way home.”
Sunlight washes over my face as we continue on.
The city thins. The streets grow quieter. Road signs become fewer and farther between—until only one destination remains.
Toward the ruins of the old capital.
Toward the edge of the Chasm.
“Wake Uncle William,” I say softly. “Tell him we’re here.”
“I’m awake,” he replies almost immediately. “I recognize this place. Shall we?”
I smile.
“You read my mind.”
I glance down at Eous.
“C’mon, Eous. Don’t forget your scarf.”
“En-nuh-nah!”
(Don’t worry, I’ve got it!)
We step out and approach the iron fence ahead. Flowers, photographs, handwritten notes, and flickering candles cling to it. The sunlight grows brighter, the wind stronger. Beyond the gate stretch canyons and Hollows, a river cutting through the land below.
Attached to the fence is a stone monument. Names are carved into its surface, and above them, a single inscription:
To the victims of the Fall of the Old Capital—
I pray that you find peace in this Hollow-filled world.
Future generations shall remember the disaster Hollow Zero caused:
the lives it took, the destruction it wrought.
Though humanity has never truly destroyed the Hollows,
let us still create a future where people may live in happiness—
where even in a world filled with chaos, peace may be found.
I read the notes left behind. Messages of longing. Of regret. Of everyday updates shared with those who would never reply.
My chest tightens.
I think of the victims—of the families who lost them, swallowed whole by that disaster.
Belle steps forward and gently takes hold of a red cloth tied to the fence.
I shade my eyes against the sun.
“It feels like we haven’t been back in a long time, Belle.”
I glance toward Fairy.
“Fairy… do you know where this is?”
[Fairy]
Search complete. This is the center of the Chasm, located at the edge of New Eridu.
The Chasm predates New Eridu and was formed during the uncontrolled Hollow disaster known as the Fall of the Old Capital.
To contain Hollow Zero, Eridu’s leaders detonated fourteen Shiyu Pillars from southwest to northeast, triggering a massive geological chain reaction that resulted in the Chasm’s formation.
Belle nods quietly.
“That’s right. There’s nothing here that can be corrupted, so Hollow Zero can’t gather enough Ether to expand.”
“…That’s what keeps it from spiraling out of control.”
I add softly,
“And that’s why New Eridu could be built.”
I continue, voice low.
“If you kept driving past here, you’d reach the northern roads of Eridu—near the Throne Quarter. Ten minutes in, you’d see a massive statue.”
Belle smiles faintly.
“The White Star Institute.”
She grows nostalgic.
“Turn left before it and you’d reach Main Road No. 7 of the old Minerva Quarter. On the left were antique shops Big Bro loved. He was just a kid and always fell for fake artifacts…”
I smile.
“And on the right were the dessert shops you loved.”
I chuckle.
“No matter how much you begged, you never finished everything I bought.”
Belle scoffs, grinning wider.
“I never finished them? The second snacks hit the table, everyone devoured them in under a minute. Have you forgotten?”
“How could I?” I reply softly.
“At the end of Main Road No. 7—after two… no, three security gates—you’d see a beautiful building.”
Belle continues, eyes distant.
“Our teacher would be waiting there, standing to the right of the plaque. Sometimes Uncle William would be there instead.”
Uncle William chuckles.
“And Carol would scold me every time I took you somewhere without telling her.”
I look ahead.
“…Helios Academy. That was our real home.”
“It’s still there now,” I say quietly, “across the Chasm—deep inside Hollow Zero, beneath the ruins of the Old Capital.”
Belle grips the red cloth, speaking as if to someone standing beside her.
“…Teacher. We’re back. It’s been a long time… and so much has happened.”
The wind carries her unfinished words away.
I lift Eous and approach the fence. He reaches out and carefully ties a red scarf to the metal netting. The fabric flutters, dancing in the wind.
[Fairy]
Master, Second Assistant—please allow me to express my condolences.
If you wish, I can locate the individual’s name on the memorial.
“…Carole,” I reply quietly.
“Carole Arna.”
Fairy pauses.
[Fairy]
That name does not appear among the victims of the Fall of the Old Capital.
One related entry was found:
“…resulted in the uncontrollable Hollow Zero. The primary individual responsible, Senior Research Director Carole Arna of Helios Academy, will be permanently recorded on the Pillar of Shame.”
Speculation: The individual may be a different person sharing the same name.
Belle exhales and shakes her head.
“No. There’s no mistake.”
I finish for her.
“She was our teacher.”
Belle nods.
“She taught us. Raised us. The HDD system and Eous were among her greatest achievements.”
“She saved us—alongside Uncle William—when the Old Capital fell.”
She turns to Fairy.
“You asked why we’re investigating Hollow Zero. This is why.”
I nod.
“We became Proxies to gather enough data to one day return to where Helios Academy once stood.”
“…Deep inside Hollow Zero.”
I clench my fist.
“We swear on our lives that our teacher wasn’t responsible.”
“We’ll uncover the truth of the Fall of the Old Capital—and clear her name.”
“She’s innocent, because—”
A presence brushes against my senses.
I turn.
Hoshimi Miyabi stands beside the monument, her fingers resting lightly against the carved stone.
“Hm?” she murmurs, ears twitching.
My eyes widen.
“Hoshimi Miyabi… Head of Section 6.”
She nods.
“That’s correct.”
Her gaze sharpens as it settles on me.
“You must be Void-Hunter Nocturne. As expected of my rival—it seems you bested me this time.”
Belle blinks.
“…Rival?”
She turns toward me, frowning.
I cleared my thoat.
Miyabi looks back to the monument.
“I’m training to become the first to reach the Chasm Memorial.”
She rests her hand against one of the names.
“I wanted some time alone.”
Belle nods in understanding.
“You’re here to pay your respects too.”
“Yes,” Miyabi replies softly.
“My mother.”
My chest tightens.
“My condolence,” I say quietly.
She smiles faintly—but her hand clenches.
“Thank you. But I don’t intend to find peace.”
I return her look.
“I think I understand why.”
Miyabi nods, her ears twitching.
“I won’t seek peace until every person responsible for the Fall of the Old Capital is brought to justice.”
Her piercing crimson gaze, looked as if something quietly burns into their depths.
“I’ll catch them all.”
I shiver slightly.
She truly lives up to her title.
“We’ll be going now,” I say. “I hope justice is served.”
I take two melon breads from my pocket and offer them to her.
“I heard you like these.”
“You can share them with your mother.”
Her ears twitch, and she smiles.
“Thank you. I’m sure she will.”
“I hope we spar again someday.”
I smile back.
“When that day comes, I’ll aim to win.”
She bows.
“Farewell, Nocturne.”
I bow in return.
“Goodbye, Miss Miyabi.”
Straightening, I turn back to the others.
“Let’s go home.”
We return to the car. As I start the engine, I glance back one last time.
Miyabi sits quietly before the monument, eating the melon bread—ears twitching gently in the wind.
I smile and face forward.
The engine hums.
The road stretches on.
Leaving behind the Outer Ring.
The Tour de Inferno.
The Sons of Calydon.
I hope to see them again someday.
With that—
The Outer Ring commission comes to a close.
After Miyabi departs from the monument, a cloaked figure emerges from the distance.
She approaches the protective fence in silence. A scarred hand reaches out, fingers brushing against the scarf tied to the metal mesh. Beneath the hood, she smiles faintly.
“…It seems they came to visit me.”
She carefully unties the scarf and wraps it around her neck.
For a moment, she keeps both hands on the fabric, closing her eyes as the wind passes over her. When she opens them again, her gaze is steady.
“Master… can’t return yet. Not now.”
Her voice softens, tinged with resignation.
“What I did… you probably won’t forgive me for the rest of your life.”
A small, gentle smile forms beneath the hood.
“...I can live with that.”
She tightens the scarf once more, then turns away—
walking onward, toward her next destination.