<h3>[“Knight Shin Chronicle”, “Life and Death Register”, and now the animation “Fate’s Sky” that has sent the Empire into a frenzy. What is it?]</h3>
<h3>[The recently released 5th episode of “Fate’s Sky” continues its overwhelming success with glowing reviews…]</h3>
<h3>[Animation magic? Thanks to the popularity of “Fate’s Sky,” plays and musicals based on mythical figures are also experiencing massive hits…]</h3>
<h3>[Professor Hermion’s critique: Discussing the blockbuster phenomenon of “Fate’s Sky.”] </h3>
(Continued)
In this sense, Ragnar Director’s new work, “Fate’s Sky,” can truly be considered an astonishing piece.
Myths and history are generally seen as dry subjects—fields typically only of interest to Academy students or professors, not exactly crowd-pleasers.
This isn’t merely a stereotype; it’s a fact. History, being rooted in facts, doesn’t often cater to the reader’s sense of “fun.” That’s why most plays or musicals based on myths or history have been largely ignored by the masses.
So when Ragnar Director announced he would reinterpret legends and heroes for his next project after finishing “Life and Death Register,” many people expressed concern.
But those concerns were proven wrong. Because “Fate’s Sky” offers something entirely new and exciting to the citizens of the Empire compared to “Knight Shin Chronicle” and “Life and Death Register.”
A secret ceremony conducted by mages during the full moon grants any wish… And through this ritual, seven legendary heroes from different eras are summoned into the present world to fight each other to the death.
One fascinating twist Ragnar added is that these heroes hide their true names. If revealed, their historical or mythical weaknesses might also come to light.
Who is the knight summoned by Yuri? What hero is the archer called forth by Yuri’s ally, Sei, who wields both sword and bow so skillfully?
And what about the three heroes yet to reveal themselves? Who are they, and what powers do they possess?
These questions alone spark endless imagination among viewers. Maybe the hero we haven’t met yet is the one we’re imagining right now!
Thanks to Ragnar’s brilliant storytelling in “Fate’s Sky,” even plays and musicals based on myths and legends are now thriving.
Speculating here, but did Ragnar perhaps foresee all this when creating “Fate’s Sky”? In the past, he cleverly twisted the ending of “Life and Death Register” for theater and musical collaborations. Could he have aimed to revive the declining culture of the Empire?
If my guess is correct, Ragnar Director wasn’t chasing mere money…
“Hmm, this is quite an interesting theory.”
The Emperor, reading the editorial, couldn’t help but show keen interest.
“Could it be that Ragnar made ‘Fate’s Sky’ to revive our Empire’s lagging cultural scene compared to other nations?”
“Honestly, I think Professor’s claim isn’t entirely wrong,” replied Karlreya, sitting across from him.
“If Director had no such purpose, there’d be no reason for him to collaborate with theaters and musicals or bother with those promotional lotteries. Honestly, would he go through all that trouble just for a little cash?”
“Yeah, that makes sense…”
Though technically, Ragnar organized those lotteries precisely to make some extra cash, but neither the Emperor nor Karlreya could grasp his more down-to-earth mindset.
“As the entertainment industry revives, the benefits gained by the Empire over the last year are truly astronomical. Didn’t foreign nations even kneel before us to import Director’s animations?”
“Hmph.” The Emperor nodded, acknowledging the truth in her words. Indeed, the profits brought by Ragnar’s animations were staggering.
For example, due to repeated exposure to text in the animations, illiterate citizens unknowingly learned how to read. A recent survey by the Imperial Household confirmed a significant drop in illiteracy rates compared to a year ago.
Moreover, nations like Richard Kingdom offered various privileges to secure import rights for Ragnar’s works. Richard Kingdom even ceded territory to include the Knight King in “Fate’s Sky.”
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that because of Ragnar’s animations, every nation on the continent now tiptoes around the Empire.
The Emperor found this situation nothing short of astonishing. He never imagined culture could wield such power.
“Ah, speaking of which, the Silgeah Federation recently asked me to thank Ragnar.”
“…What? For what reason?”
“Nothing major… They decided to re-establish diplomatic relations with Richard Kingdom thanks to Ragnar’s latest work.”
The Emperor burst into laughter at this revelation.
“How amusing! One man not only elevated the Empire’s status historically but also brought peace to the entire continent!”
Honestly, throughout the Empire’s history, few individuals have achieved such remarkable feats.
Measured purely by merit, Ragnar easily surpasses even noble families.
“By the way, remember when envoys from other countries begged Ragnar to naturalize under promises of high ranks?”
Ragnar has become an irreplaceable figure whose influence spans the entire Empire.
If he had accepted, the Empire would’ve suffered greatly…
…And watching his shows or collecting limited-edition merchandise would’ve become much harder.
‘Absolutely unacceptable. It mustn’t happen.’
Thus, for both the future of the Empire and the Emperor’s personal hobbies, Ragnar must remain within the Empire.
“I’ve decided how to reward Ragnar.”
The Emperor grinned mischievously at Karlreya, who looked hopeful.
Don’t worry…
Chances are, this won’t harm you either, Karlreya.
Considering your connection to the Imperial Family, perhaps the minimum rank suitable for someone like you would be…
“Karlreya, what do you think about granting Ragnar the title of Baron?”
*
“…A title? To me?”
On another day spent secluded in a room producing “Fate’s Sky,” Karlreya delivered this news.
“Yes. This isn’t just speculation—it’s practically final. His Majesty plans to hold a formal ceremony soon.”
Serika, standing beside me, beamed with excitement.
“Is it true? Congratulations, Ragnar! I knew a day like this would come!”
“…Eh, thanks.” Honestly, hearing Karlreya’s words didn’t stir much emotion in me.
I’ve never cared much for politics or managing estates…
Still, in this feudal society, formally receiving a noble title isn’t entirely bad…
‘Would’ve preferred a big pile of cash or retirement instead, though.’
Just then, Karlreya suddenly added:
“Oh, by the way, His Majesty mentioned there will be a celebration party and ball hosted by the Imperial Household after the ceremony.”
“…A party and ball, huh?”
Those words sound like something socialites would drool over…
But alas, in my past life, I preferred staying home watching anime over clubbing…
Still, since it’s a commemorative event for my promotion, I should probably attend…
As I idly thought this,
“…”
“…”
“…Why are you two staring at me like that?”
Karlreya explained gently:
“You know, usually at such events, the guest of honor must bring a partner along.”
“A partner?”
Fair enough, it would look odd if the main guest ate alone…
“Which brings me to my question… Whom do you plan to bring as your partner?”
“…Huh?”
Catching me off guard, both Serika and Karlreya leaned in eagerly.
“Obviously me! We’ve known each other for over ten years—more than just friends. Who else could possibly qualify besides me? Right?”
“Ah, Serika-san, don’t you think the Director might find you a bit tiresome after all this time? Wouldn’t it be better if I, who’ve assisted him consistently over the past year, took the lead?”
“Excuse me?! Tiresome?! Are you finished speaking? Your Highness?”
…
No matter who I choose, I feel doomed…
Am I just paranoid?
