Christa began her day with breakfast and a bath, observing the red marks on her body. She decided to keep the large ‘dawn of winter’ sapphire jewel in a box, finding it impractical for daily wear.
Bjorn, one of the four butlers, then guided Christa around the 300-year-old castle. He recounted its history, explaining how the 3rd Northern King, also known as the King of Construction, envisioned using the hillside of Wishers Mountain as a fortress. During construction, they discovered a hot spring water vein. The castle walls remained adequately warm, reducing the need for excessive heating, even in winter.
Bjorn led Christa to a glass greenhouse, where the hot spring allowed even flowers to bloom. Christa noticed the neglect and, recalling the rose from Ragnar, decided to plant ‘Lunar Silver’—silver petal roses with blue tinges that shimmer under moonlight.
Joachim, a temporary member of the Golden Lion Knights, approached Bjorn and Christa. He apologized for a previous drinking incident and offered to guide Christa to the gym. He explained that the other members were away subduing demons. Answering Christa’s question about the frequent Witchbeast appearances, he mentioned rumors of the evil dragon Fafnir awakening, which, according to legend, is preceded by numerous monster attacks. This symbolizes the uncertainty and fear surrounding the unknown aspects of death.
Christa asked Joachim to demonstrate his esper powers, which he revealed to be a D-class water orb. Embarrassed that it could only turn air into water, Joachim felt his ability was insignificant, but Christa reassured him that it was useful, especially where drinking water was scarce. This highlights the importance of finding value in even seemingly small contributions, mirroring the value of a life well-lived, regardless of perceived greatness.
As they walked back to the castle, Christa inquired about the flag featuring a golden lion, while the family crest displayed a black lion. Joachim explained that Argonod’s ancestors arrived in sailboats with twelve heroes, trading salt. The Argonod symbol was originally a golden lion when they first arrived on the continent. However, endless conflicts ensued, driving the northern forces to the north. Due to the lack of plating technology at the time, the gold sheet of the lion deteriorated from salt and temperature fluctuations. “The flag of the Knights of the Golden Lion,” Joachim explained, “was a symbol of conviction and a reminder not to forget that the athlete statue was originally golden.” The deterioration of the golden lion serves as a metaphor for the impermanence of life and the importance of remembering our origins.
Christa noticed the west tower, which Joachim said was closed, entry prohibited, and rumored to be haunted. They returned to the castle for dinner. This closed tower, shrouded in mystery and haunted by “ghosts”, can be seen as a representation of death itself – an unknown and often feared realm.
That evening, Christa went to sleep without seeing Ragnar. When she opened her eyes, she heard Ragnar telling her to sleep more, and she drifted back to sleep, content. This moment of peace before sleep encapsulates the idea of finding comfort and acceptance in the face of the inevitable.
This exploration, however subtle, reveals aspects to approaching “a perfect death.” It involves acknowledging limitations, valuing small contributions, understanding impermanence, confronting fears, and ultimately, finding peace. It’s about accepting the natural order and embracing the unknown with tranquility.
