Act I: The Spear Beyond the Mortal World I

"Qian, I remember that's your name, right?"

In the darkness, a voice flashed through Qian's mind like lightning. People trapped in desperate situations were often the most perceptive, so she instantly recognized it as Ouvina—the long-silent voice of Sacred Spear Azure. Moreover, she had once opened her heart and accepted Ouvina in a hall somewhere beneath Ambersell, forming a sacred contract. She could never have mistaken it.

Qian became excited, like a drowning person clutching at a lifeline. The Cruzian nobles were arguing not far away, but she no longer felt lost or uneasy. She had found something to rely on. She showed a weak, pleading expression. Ouvina saw it, but only asked, "You want me to save you?"

The girl nodded incessantly, tears spilling from her eyes.

"You're too weak, Qian." Ouvina sighed. "The Azure Spear is a blade that protects the mortal world. I once asked you, 'When the heavens shatter and the stars fall, it is the history of mortals conquering fate. Can you feel the courage contained in the meaning of it all?' I heard your answer last time, and your feelings are all in my heart. But courage isn't stubbornness or refusal to yield. It is wisdom. You lack that wisdom. Do you understand?"

Qian shook her head blankly.

"Then, can you still fight?"

Qian paused slightly, then nodded vigorously. The nobles, led by Babain, were arguing fiercely. He had just punched the leading noble officer to the ground, and the two were now wrestling while the others tried to break them up. Thus, no one noticed the Mountain Maiden's subtle movements.

"Good." Ouvina seemed completely unconcerned with the nobles' commotion and nodded in satisfaction. In her eyes, those people were as insignificant as dust. Though Qian was still very weak, Ouvina would never allow