Shikiriyan: The Struggling Painter (Part 5)

There was something about the way he carried himself that spoke volumes—the pride of an artist, and the sincere, boyish longing to keep growing despite the many years he had lived.

And Ruritel wanted nothing more than to support him.

That alone was her one true wish.

Mayutan had already realized how she felt. At the same time, however, he couldn't shake his reluctance to leave his much younger sister in the care of an elderly artist.

Yet he also knew Ruritel better than anyone. Once she made up her mind, nothing could change it.

After discussing the matter with the rest of the family over the phone, Mayutan ultimately had no choice but to accept her decision to remain with Shikiriyan.

"The Nyaon Jar is currently in the possession of the mage Undo."

Shikiriyan revealed a shocking truth that no one had expected.

"What?! Then we can't use the Nyaon Jar to defeat Undo!"

A look of shock and disappointment crossed Debiru's face.

"We'll just have to defeat him by force, meow."

Although Tanimaki said it confidently, he was secretly troubled by the situation. After all, he had been hoping to use the Nyaon Jar to turn himself back into a human.

"I once possessed the Nyaon Jar myself. I hoped its power would grant me inspiration. But it never responded to me. So I gave it away... to one of Undo's followers."

A heavy shadow filled Shikiriyan's eyes as he spoke.

It is said that the Nyaon Jar will never grant its owner's wish unless they possess true love.

But what, exactly, is "true love"? And will Tanimaki ever be able to become human again?

──The events I am about to tell took place long after Tanimaki and his companions had finished their adventure.

After Ruritel came of age, she married Shikiriyan, and together they had four children.

Little by little, Shikiriyan's work gained recognition, until it was eventually exhibited in the Demon King's palace.

He continued painting until the age of 150, remaining active as an artist until the very end of his life. Then, one day, he quietly passed away.

Today, countless artists inspired by him continue to carry on his legacy.