I'm Going to Go Crazy

“You’re driving me crazy, seriously...”

Those were the first words I uttered after hearing her suggestion. How many times has it been now? I must have heard “join Lemegeton” dozens of times. Even the most zealous proselytizer wouldn’t be this persistent.

I asked Livia, with a slightly exasperated expression,

“How many times do you think I’ve heard that by now? I think you already know my answer without me saying it.”

“I know; Sephiroth has already asked dozens of times. But this time it’s really different. Your life could be in danger if you stay here!”

For a moment, I thought she was threatening me, but she wasn’t. I could sense genuine concern for me in her eyes. So I listened quietly as she continued.

“The Demon that appeared this time is different somehow. If we’re not careful, the Empire could be swallowed whole in an instant. Adventurers, especially, are like a lamp in the wind. But if you join Lemegeton, at least your life will be spared.” “Oh, you sound quite confident that I’d survive if I joined?” “The 4th Branch Leader has already made contact with Beled. At least he wouldn’t try to kill everyone who serves him, right?”

Simply put, it means bowing their heads and joining. It wasn’t a method I particularly liked. Naturally, my answer was already decided.

“But I don’t want to join.”

She made a frustrated expression...