Aches
Biography
Voyage across the Starmist Sea
Aches hires twenty-one Two Star Fiends for a commercial voyage and is delighted to discover that Delia is a Highgod, recognizing that he has secured unusually strong protection at a bargain price. He keeps the company together through a sea storm, warns them about Knifeblade Island, and apologizes personally when Dimon's attack turns his contract into a deadly ordeal. (Chapters 525–530)
After the surviving travelers learn that Linley is their hidden protector, Aches accepts his leadership without trying to pry into his secrets. He later explains Miluo Island's arena and guards, then delays the group's departure because the Free Castle contains merchandise unavailable in the other major castles, reaffirming that commerce—not adventure—is his purpose. (Chapters 531–540)
Appearance
Aches is a short man with curly golden hair. (Chapter 525)
Personality
He is cheerful and commercially alert, but also cautious enough to explain known dangers and humble enough to apologize when his employees are endangered. (Chapters 525–537)
Abilities and powers
Aches is a God-level Fiend. His demonstrated strengths are organization, route knowledge, and mercantile judgment rather than a named combat technique. (Chapters 525–540)
Relationships
He employs Linley, Delia, Bebe, and their fellow Fiends, then treats Linley as the party's leader after recognizing his strength. (Chapters 525–537)
