The Origin of The Bloodline

Above our heads, the branches of trees intertwine like a natural canopy, blocking out the sunlight. Below, thick roots tangle like balls of fur, making the ground uneven and difficult to traverse.

In Margrave Harkin’s territory, unlike other forested areas, the elves’ forest remains largely untouched by human intervention, as it’s not designated for logging. However, this particular area is excessively overgrown, with trees so thick that it would take several adults holding hands to encircle them, rendering them unsuitable for timber.

In this deep, mysterious forest, where even the air teems with mystique, Senior Forusha leads me with the ease of walking on flat ground. Without his guidance, a novice like me would quickly lose my way.

The morning after formally welcoming the elves of the autonomous region as my subordinates, the fresh air of the forest feels like a feast to someone who’s roamed the Land of Death for years. Inviting me for a morning walk to fully savour it, Forusha brings me to this area, saying:

“I would like to guide Asuru-dono, our new leader, to our elven sacred ground.”

His words seem to serve more than just a polite gesture. Clearly, he intends to discuss our recent expedition, which was interrupted by Ente’s actions—a conversation likely not meant for others’ ears. Yet, I wonder, is delving this deep into the forest truly necessary?

Just when I start to feel weary and slightly irritated, Forusha halts abruptly and announces:

“…It’s here.”

Catching up and standing beside him, I voice my scepticism. While he, as a leader of the elves, might distinguish one tree from another as easily as recognizing human faces, to me, it appears merely as a slightly more impressive tree overrun with vines.

“Haha… If you look closely, you’ll understand.”

Forusha says, gesturing with his right hand in what is unmistakably a magical act. The massive, entangled vines begin to move as if sentient, revealing what lies behind them.

“…Are you kidding me!?”

I exclaim in astonishment. Behind the receding vines, an entrance resembling the elevator inside ‘Mamiya’ is revealed on the tree’s surface. So, this tree…?

“…This is not a natural tree. Our ancestors created this artificial structure with such sophistication that even we Elves cannot differentiate it from a real one.”

Senior Forusha explains as he opens the elevator door. While the destination of this facility is unknown, its functionality, akin to ’Mamiya’s, is evident. However, it seems simpler, lacking a teleportation device.

Resolute, I step into the elevator as invited. Below the camouflaged tree, deep underground, I discover the origin of the bloodline coursing through me.

A facility, buried deep underground and equipped with technology from a super-ancient civilization, mirrors a smaller version of one I’ve seen inside ‘Mamiya’. In essence,

…a cultivation facility.

Inside ‘Mamiya’, massive glass containers big enough for horses and cows were aligned, where, as Eve explained, our ancestors astonishingly created various living beings using something termed ‘genes’. Upon receiving the slaves, my plan was to immediately put the facility to use.

Yet, something about Eve’s explanation has nagged at me. She mentioned…

I was also crafted here by ‘Mamiya’, which sensed the presence of the Master.

This means that not only animals but also humans could be created.

Unlike ‘Mamiya’, this facility houses only one glass container. As Senior Forusha caresses it nostalgically, he slowly reveals:

“The great ancestors chose to forsake their wisdom and civilization for reasons unknown. Yet, they left behind a safeguard, allowing only those of a certain bloodline to revive what is known as ‘Mamiya’ should the need arise.”

This aligns with my theories derived from ancient documents. Contrary to my ancestors’ wishes, I sought out and aimed to resurrect ‘Mamiya’.

“Hence, this bloodline must remain unbroken… Should it ever end, a new eligible individual will be created here.”

Despite my attempts to avoid such thoughts, I’ve pondered over ancient documents, questioning:

If the Lombard royal family is to inherit an ancient civilization, why does their history seem so brief?

Indeed, the royal family’s history spans only about five hundred years, contradicting some ancient texts.

The answer lies here.

“Upon the birth of such an individual, they must be nurtured and protected… Our family’s duty is to equip them with numerous books and guide their way.”

Senior Forusha mentions, briefly glancing at a corner of the room. Until now, my focus on the glass container had obscured the presence of a binding-type printer, similar to one in ‘Mamiya’, responsible for the ancient documents’ remarkably exquisite bindings.

“According to royal tradition, King Zaghi Lombard, the founder, was mentored by Senior Forusha of the Elves.”

“Asuru-dono bears a striking resemblance to him.”

Senior Forusha comments with a smile, gently touching the glass container, feeling the gaze of not just ancestors but a figure akin to a father upon him.

“I see… Is our lineage born from this place?”

Of course, the container offers no reply. The site where life was forged holds an object so cold, its purpose unimaginable until now.

“Moreover, it has been passed down in our clan… If the descendants of that lineage were to revive the ancient technology, it is our duty to serve and support them… Asuru-dono, let us reaffirm our pledge here. Despite residing in different lands, all the Elves in the Margrave territory’s autonomous region acknowledge you as our leader.”

Shifting away from sentimentality, I face Senior Forusha, fully embracing the gravity of his words.

“…I wholeheartedly accept your vow. I am grateful for this enlightenment.”

I express my appreciation for having been led to this revelation.

Thus, I came to understand the responsibility entrusted to my bloodline and the true origin of my clan.