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Money Factories () "Hey, my God! What was the relationship of trust between me and Lord Store Manager!? Was it my fantasy? "Oh, I trust you, don't I? Of course. Simply for different main reasons." While I rush in to follow up, I explain why I can't do this with Dear Adelbert. "If we're going to fight salamanders, we need braces and heat protection, but we don't have a lot of material for that." Lava lizard leather that I had recently finished processing and intended to sell to my master or Mr. Leonora as a heat proof material. With that, you get the minimum amount of protective equipment you need to fight a salamander. However, all I have on hand now is four pieces of leather. Boots and gloves, and if you were to make a coat for it, you'd be critical with little me, Mr. Iris, and Mr. Kate. Even though we have the option of Mr. Caterina instead of either of us, obviously the big Dear Adelbert, can't do anything about it. "Even with the lava lizard material we have on hand right now, which has been processed until halfway through, it's about a month until it's done. I'm on my way to pick it up anew, and it's not very... spare time, do you have any? There's a debt payment deadline, right? You should have come to pick up Mr. Iris, probably because you ran out of measures. Advice, Master Adelbert has a harsh look and roars deeply. "Mmm, that's tough...... Two months...... no, if we postpone it, can we do three months? "Then you can't. Even if you kill Salamander, you need to cash in." Normally, if you bring it into an alchemist's shop, I'll replace it with money at that point, but I'm the alchemist. Even if I brought it back to this village, it wouldn't be easy to cash it in. ... Ah, take it home. Oh, my God, did you have that? "Um, Master Adelbert, and Mr. Caterina. If you don't mind, could you help us with getting back and forth? "And say? "After we defeat Salamander, we need to bring it back, but not just me, Mr. Iris and Mr. Kate..." "I see. The power is better than the power." "You can take the collectors from this village as luggage holders, because then you'll need to distribute the rewards. I apologize for causing the nobleman, Lady Adelbert, to chore." "What, you don't have to worry about that. No, it's a wooden nobleman. If that's what you mean, Iris is a noble lady, isn't he? "Father! One (...) responds (...) is terrible." "Isn't that true? Remember swordsmanship before courtesy..." Master Adelbert shook his head as he turned his gaze toward Mr. Iris, giving up and shuddering, but one shuddering gaze toward him as well. It is Mr. Caterina. "Dear Adelbert. It was Lady Adelbert who taught Iris that with pleasure, wasn't it?" I'll be like your father! 'And they say,' That already seems happy. " "... did that happen? Dear Adelbert, who responds as if it were not in his memory, but his misguided gaze tells the story of everything. "There was. Instead of embarrassing Master Iris wielding a tree branch, you saw it with a loose look. I've talked to your wife about what to do." "I remember that, too. That's what inspired me to learn bows from my mom." Mr. Kate is older than Mr. Iris. If Mr. Iris was old enough to wield a tree branch, he would naturally have a solid memory of Mr. Kate as well. "When Iris grew up, he needed someone to support him. If Iris is going to be interested in the same direction as a regular courtier, Kate's education was going to be there..." Katerina looks at Mr. Iris and sighs deeply with 'Phew'. "Ugh, Kate, I'm sorry. You made me go out with you." "It doesn't matter. Because I also had more fun training bows than I was weirdly taught to be polite. Luckily, it seemed to have a lot of qualities, too? Kate laughs furiously at Iris, who seems a little sorry. In fact, I guess there's no lie in that word to think of Kate's skill. In contrast, Master Adelbert coughed up one and reverted to the subject, thinking he was unfavourable if he continued to talk. "Gohon. So, Lord Sarasa, when is the execution going to be? "Well, we're going to have the necessary smelting equipment Artifacts... leaving here in a month. That's how we plan to move." "I see. Then the Noons need to go back. You'll have to give instructions for the postponement, and you'll need to explain the circumstances." "Right. - I think Walter would like to come, too." "That won't work either. Walter has a role to play as a housekeeper." There seemed to be a mistake when it came to the debt contract, but I just shot Mr. Katerina, a human but elf, and Joon-young with force, intelligence, and even an excellent appearance. Normally, he is not the kind of person who fits into the small boundaries of the Rozze family, but because of him, it seems that this is how our Lord Adelbert comes here. Conversely, if he falls out, the Rotze family is such an important person that they will also be unable to negotiate on dysfunctional, debt payment deadlines. "... that? Instead of Mr. Adelbert, it would be better if he came." For the purpose of bringing Mr. Iris back this time, I think it makes sense for our Lord and Father, Lord Adelbert, to come. It's an important story about marriage, so your father should explain it properly to Mr. Iris, even if he does have some difficulty. But next time, just escorts and luggage. Once you're back, you don't have to come to our lord Adelbert, the nobleman. To such a natural doubt of mine, all the people of the Rozze family silenced. ......... "Oh?" He opened his mouth vaguely with a troubled grin against me with his neck clenched. "Ah, the manager. It's very hard to say... Walter can replace your father, but vice versa..." If I turned my attention to Chilari and Lady Adelbert, he would arm himself on the tannic side and close his eyes as if to avoid my gaze. I see, shouldn't you ask? It's okay, because I, I can read the air. - Probably not good at paperwork or anything. I'm Mr. Iris' father. "Well! Let's decide what we want to know! Even if I could read the air, I didn't say I could deal with it. I changed the conversation somewhat forcefully and packed the conversation with Mr. Iris about my plans for the future. ◇ ◇ ◇ I asked my master, 'If you're a salamander of general strength, wouldn't you be okay if you worked hard?' very reliable (?) I received a response. I'll do my best...... of course, I'm going to, but I won't forgive you a bit. Because I'm not an expert in battle. So I'll work hard in the main business. Most importantly, a "heat proof coat" to prevent the braces on the salamander. If you want to roughly describe the structure of this coat, the surface is made of lava lizard leather, the backing of which is Hell Flame Grizzly leather. Insulated material underneath, lined with something appropriate leather on the innermost side. The most important of these, naturally, is the leather of lava lizards. The backing depends on your budget. You can use another leather, but this time with a cost exterior view, you choose Hell Flame Grizzly leather to make it a little more effective. Luckily, we have some in stock. The insulation material is an application of objects used for magic stoves, and the cooling function to be added to the leather of the lining is a mechanism similar to that of cooling hats, etc. Is that why, in fact, this coat, it's five volumes of all the alchemy on it, actually? And I haven't finished four volumes yet. That's why I was just going to sell the lava lizard leather with the down-treatment... because of this one, it stopped working. So now, I'm making Artifact, a four-roll smelter that was only marginally left, on a steep pitch. We only had the material, so we'll just work hard later! Hey, silly, sharpen your sleep! Doing that seems to have worried Lorea... "Mr. Sarasa, are you okay? It looks pretty impossible...... I wish I could help you with something." When I was caged in the workshop, leaving the shopkeeper almost to Lorea, Lorea, who came to call me rice, looked into my face worried. The third day of the night, I don't know what it is because I have a little neighborhood, but I still don't have a problem with this. "It's okay, it's okay. Lorea's just cooking for me, and she's helping me enough. Without it, I can't be impotent either." It's common for alchemists to forget to eat and immerse themselves in research, but alchemists are clean people. That won't last for days. In that regard, I have a decent meal served every meal, so I am working hard to avoid falling even for a long time. "That would be nice...... don't push me too hard, would you? At the very least, I'll make something strong." Lorea has also been properly informed of this situation, and Lorea is outraged by Mr. Iris's situation and has promised me all possible cooperation. So even if I'm caged in the workshop all night, I guess I won't be forced to rest. "Yeah, thanks. Lorea's food is always delicious, so it's really helping." When I grinned and thanked her, Lorea lit up. "Sir, is there anything we can do? I can't cook like Lorea." "Even when it comes to alchemy, I'm not sure, we" "Uh-huh... If so, can you hunt for a deer too? To be honest, I'm also sorry to say 'nothing', and to the answer I twisted out, Mr. Iris and Mr. Kate twisted their necks face to face. "Deer? Very normal? "Not demons or something? "Yeah, regular deer. You need a skin." The leather used for lining the thermal coat is unlimited. The only problem is comfort, so the deer is just right because of the touch, cost, etc. I was going to buy treated leather, but if Mr. Iris and I are going to hunt it, I can handle it all in front of me, so I can make it just a little more high-performance than buying regular deer leather. I can't say enough that the slightest difference is unlikely to divide life and death... Yeah, isn't this a good job? "I see. If that's going to help the manager, let's go right away." "Right. If you're hunting, I'm good at it." "The meat on our table was something Kate or Katerina would hunt for." "If you hadn't hunted, you wouldn't have eaten." Actually, Mr. Kate, when he was in the Rotze family territory, he sometimes went deer hunting, combined with training and food security. It was that skill that grew up as a result. I'm sure they'll hunt deer easily. "Well, thank you. Because we don't have to rush that far." "Oh, I'll take care of it!

Quietly check the number of enemies (·). In addition to Baron Kirk, there are three surroundings. I'm familiar with rough things, but it doesn't seem like a threat. There are no other people around. - Can you do it? I was a little bit prepared for that, but fortunately, it never happened. "Warrant Baron Kirk, you seem to be having an interesting conversation, but do you have time for this? It was His Highness, who had wasted tea and sweets just now, who appeared in Omoro with such words. Are you going to work for what you've spent? Standing in front of me, I look hard at Baron Kirk. "You..." "You are under suspicion of entering the kingdom without authorization." "Nhhh!?" Baroness Kirk was uttered by His Highness to block the words of Baroness Kirk. The surrounding men who stood behind him also took a breath and stepped back. But of course. In the territory of other nobles, let alone the invasion of King's Land without authorization, it is equal to drawing a bow against the royal family, without waiting for the certification of treason. It is a felony that could be a homicide, and so are those involved. As long as it is wrapped around it, it is natural to behead it in a series. But that's what Warrant Baron Kirk did? The purpose itself is unknown, but more than that... "I can't believe you're near King's Landing....." "Isn't there? It's close." With that, His Highness points to the back. That's my shop. It's true that this shop was purchased with the support of the Kingdom, so half of it - no, not to mention more than 0% of it belongs to the Kingdom, but it's not King's Land... Ah, I see. His Highness is pointing beyond that to the sea of trees and mountains. It is often forgotten because it is slightly different from the direct jurisdiction where the deputy is ruled, but in this country, important gathering sites such as the Great Tree Sea are mostly kingdoms. It seems to be such a mechanism because it is inconvenient for a lord to hold the Alchemy material, which is also a strategic material. Therefore, Warrant Baron Kirk, who sent soldiers against us in the mountains, can also be considered to have 'invaded the kingdom'. Strictly speaking, though. In fact, it has different meanings in the general kingdom and gathering place, and as far as I know, there have been no cases of punishment for putting troops in the gathering place. "Yes, I don't remember anything like that! Who are you in the first place? It's disrespectful to interrupt a story!!" Whoa, it looks like Warrant Baron Kirk doesn't know His Highness Felix's face. You didn't know me or Iris, but you're the head of a noble family, right? Okay, so? I'm saying disrespect, but I'm doing a terrible disrespect. It's like jumping naked into a sword forest. It'll tear you apart. His Highness, however, smiled rather funny when he saw such a Baron Kirk. "Oh, did you forget to see my face? With that, Your Highness leaves a long time ago. And at the same time as she focused on herself, she put her hand on the hat, which was slightly covered in the dramatic manners, and she pulled her hair up and took off the hat. - Did you take it off? No, take it off!? Besides, Your Highness hasn't used it yet. It came out from under the hat, the same as when I saw it before, on the top of my head. The light of the sun, which plunged into a good feeling without trying, reflected there, sparkling. And a perfect face. Iris couldn't stand it either, but the barons looked at him head-on without thinking. "" "Buho! I blew it. It's an additional offence of disrespect. Baron Kirk nodded satisfactorily and exclaimed his words. It's kind of awful, coming to make me laugh. I was already resistant, but I couldn't do it normally. However, Iris is not normally allowed, and the application of disrespect is only three inches of His Highness's breast. Perhaps you're special because you're the Barons of Kirk? There was something unusual about it. "For those behind me, my name is Felix Laprosian. You understand that, don't you? Hearing the name of Laprosian, the blood came out of the faces of the surrounding people. No matter how educated they are, adults know the name of the country in which they live, and there is no way they can understand what kind of bloodline the person who bears the name is. "Ka, Kirk-sama, what happens to disrespectful sins!?" "I don't know! But the bigger problem is marching into King's Landing! It's not like killing a civilian alchemist. Murder of the royal family will definitely be a lynching!!" Again, a snatch and a confession of crime. You may be in a hurry, but as a nobleman, it's not too rough. It would be nice for me to confess in front of the royal family. "Oh, we're okay!? I'm not involved with you! "I can't believe it! You're all dead when they execute you! "You just followed Master Kirk's instructions! "You think you can escape while inhaling all the sweet juice! Warrant Baron Kirk and the surrounding chimps start to break ugly. But if you obey like Madison and the others, and you're willing to cooperate, you need to take responsibility. ... including the fools who put their hands on my shop. "This country village has a royal family! "In the first place, such a bald man is royalty or something!?" "That's impossible! You're bald!? You're a prince! He was Warrant Baron Kirk, who held his head and shouted at his surroundings with such disrespect, but suddenly opened his eyes and smiled happily. "- That's right! There can't be a royalty in a country like this. He is a fool who deceives the royal family. Isn't it? I don't suppose you could understand the words of Baron Kirk. The surrounding people looked stunned, but soon they reached a common sense, causing their faces to convulse and smile. "Eh? - That's right! You don't have a royal family here, do you? "Oh, it's impossible for the royal family to act alone without a confession! "You guys are paying a lot of money. Only two opponents, hold on tight! Warrant Baron Kirk pushed his back back and the surroundings laid their hands on the weapon, showing a slight hesitation. --Isn 't that a bad idea!? I hurried out in front of His Highness. Your Majesty also has a weapon, but at first glance it looks like an elegant man whose skill is unknown. Even if I were strong, I can't help but let His Highness fight me back. It may be a story (fiction) to have a prince protect it, but what happens when that happens? I'm afraid of later interrogation, even if I'm saved on the spot. Let His Highness fight and see what you were doing. A weak princess would forgive that, but I'm not in that position. That's why I'm going forward. For yourself tomorrow! Never for His Highness. "Your Highness, go inside the shop. It's safe there." "No, no problem. --Now we can add homicide incitement and attempted homicide against the royal family? "Such a fluent..." However, it seems that such a clumsiness and concern on my part was unnecessary. His Highness raised his right hand lightly and snapped his fingers. Six men appearing from nowhere - no, maybe men? I don't know because I cover my whole body in black and cover my face with a mask. Yes, as the surroundings just said, there is no way the royal family can act without them, and there can be no escort without them. I somehow felt the signs, but I could not grasp clearly the strength of its existence until it appeared. Baron Kirk is tied up with a circle that almost simultaneously causes him to faint. I can't understand what happened to the instant event, and the monkey is stuck in the mouth of the cowardly Baron Kirk, unable to speak. And they knelt on the spot, and one of them came forward, and sat down to wait for His Majesty's command. The majestic princes who stand up and kneel before them are kind of cool... but please, please put on your hat. Because it ruined everything. Gap, it's too bad. Did such a wish come true? His Highness gave instructions while wearing his hat again. Take him away. Ha. Ah, the voice that answered is a little loud. Could it be a woman? It looks a little small, and it's a little soft? You felt me staring at her for a moment, but soon she faded and disappeared. Including the men tied up. --Ah, that black outfit is a smelter (artifact). Dark outfits stand out during the day rather than at night. Is that the effect of being able to hide anyway? Of course, it's about their abilities. Even if they are given such things, they can be found to be special. Because such smelters (artifacts) are not generally distributed, and I don't even know they exist. "Well, you've cleared it up smoothly. Thank you for your cooperation." "... Your Highness, you dared to provoke me. I gladly clap my hands on His Majesty, and I turn my gaze to confusion without trying. Whether His Highness is here today or sitting down consuming tea and sweets, I'm sure he wanted to provoke and add to the charges, knowing that Warrant Baron Kirk is coming to us. I've been told a lot about Baron Kirk's fraudulent information and evidence, but it's only a waste of time, isn't it? There's nothing wrong with just abetting a royal murder, even if it's handmade on the spot. I want you to think about what's bothering me! "I don't think it's that much of a provocation? No, I was going to provoke you, but I didn't have to run away... a little unexpected." Did you feel a little anger in my heart, Your Highness, slightly distracted? Your Highness paid me the trouble Nord caused, but it's more troublesome for you, isn't it? In that I have powers beyond my control. "Did you need to accumulate more charges in the first place? I was sorry until His Highness said, but the invasion of King's Land alone would be enough to make a change." It's troublesome and dangerous here (?) If His Highness leads his army to South Strag, it will not be so difficult to capture Warrant Baron Kirk. No amount of Baron Kirk would attack an army with the King's flag on it - wouldn't he? No... maybe it's suspicious? "Strictly speaking, yes, but I wanted to avoid it as much as possible. It is difficult for landlords around gathering sites such as the Great Tree Sea to be wary of monsters and hesitate to rescue them in the unlikely event." "That's... true." Most places where you can collect a lot of Alchemy materials are also home to many monsters. There are not many monsters out there that cause damage to the surroundings, but not all of them, like the frenzy of Hell Flame Grizzly. Of course, the surrounding lords will need to be alert and, depending on the situation, they will need to send troops to deal with it. Nevertheless, what happens if there are precedents where you have been punished for placing troops in a collection site? Most lords will hesitate to bring their own troops into the gathering grounds. As a result, it is the gatherers and the surrounding people who suffer. "And there can be contingencies when you move your troops. I didn't mean to hurt the people." Military clashes as well as looting by soldiers can occur. The victims are the civilians living there. I understand that if you don't have to take military action, it's better. "This one doesn't cost much." "Very... wise decision." I have to think about damaging my wallet and Lorraine's stomach! "Am I right? I'm a little frustrated with His Highness's face. It seems easy to get along at first sight, but you're laughing at your sword, Lord Felix. I may be trustworthy as a royal wearer, but I don't want to get along very well. I'd rather be honest like Iris... Iris, Kate, get back here!

The residence of the Lord of South Strag. The place where the LORD was gone was quietly resting. Most personnel are given time, and only those with minimal security and administrative responsibilities remain. Normally, neither relatives nor self-proclaimed relatives who are likely to rush toward the governor or property will be approached in fear of the guilt of Baron Kirk. In the corner of such a mansion, an old man sat down on a couch in the office and quietly looked at the town from a window. There was a pile of years of hard work on his back, and he looked terribly asleep, with more aging air than his appearance. It was the person who created this situation who quietly spoke to him. "Cleansing" "Your Highness Felix... I'm very sorry for your loss." A loud old man, Cleansie, a decree of the Baron Kirk family, quickly stood up and bent her head down on her knees in front of Felix. "As you may already know, Baron Yokoo Kirk is in custody. There are a lot of charges... but there's no going back here." In clear words, Cleansie closed her eyes and silenced for a while, exhaling a deep breath. "... thank you very much. What happens to the Baron Kirk? "Please sit down for now. It's hard to talk with an old man like you on his knees." Felix told her to sit on the couch before answering, but Cleansie shook her head. "No, I wait for punishment. Please stay put." "Oh, that's not true. Only those who had their hands stained with evil. We will not punish those who did what Yokoo ordered us to do." Sarasa has asked me to, and I've decided not to hold Madison guilty, so I can only distinguish between them by whether or not they voluntarily commit a criminal act. In addition, there was a realistic problem that if all were punished, there would be no practitioners, and there were not many people punished for this incident, even though the lord attempted to kill the royal family. "Thank you very much for your hospitality, but am I also eligible for it? I was in charge of the Baron Kirk family as a house order." "You've ordered Yokoo's reckless orders to do as little damage as possible. I think you've done well. - Sit down." When Felix prompted her again, Cleansie sat down on the sofa saying, "Excuse me," and Felix sat in front of her and said, "Okay." "As for the Quasi-Bar Kirk family, we have also explored ways to confiscate their territory and leave them with descendants and knights... but they have no decent relatives. There is no point in leaving it any more than it is in the interest of the country. Please understand." "No, originally, Milord and Milord were just flattering. The rest of your relatives will just have to stigmatize your family name." Yokoo was particularly bad, but he should be a relative, or the rest of them are similar or close. Felix, who heard the results of the investigation, wondered why masterpieces like ancestors and ancestors were produced from this family. Even if the house stays, it is hardly conceivable that it will be a special victory with a change of heart, and there is a good chance that it will cause side problems. If such a thing bothers the country again, Cleansie thought it would be better if it had been changed this time, and sighed deeply again. "I wish this generation were mediocre... but the excellence of our ancestors didn't appear to have been demonstrated in raising children." "I've focused too much on the development of my town. I wish I could have had a good educator, but in a region like this...." "Educators who scold noble children well are valuable. Fortunately, my educator scolded me. - How many times have I been beaten?" Felix laughs as if he remembers that time. Are you Master Millis? She's special. Even if there are educators who can complain to the royal family, how many can do it...? He's a teacher who can't get what he wants in our house. " "He said he was quite reluctant to put it on me, too." If you're dissatisfied, always put it on your neck. " Even so, Your Highness was not struck by the neck. "I don't have that kind of authority. When I was punched with my fist, I went straight to my father to negotiate... but the result was only one more bump." He was the king who listened to his son's appeal until the end, but on top of that, he said, "You are wrong" and iron fist sanction. "Learn more," he said. "Master Millis, who was in a bad mood for this, gave me a lot of challenging questions... but I'm sure it led to my own growth." From the point of view of Ofelia, Felix's education, which was originally unresponsive, would deprive him of more time and reduce the time spent on alchemy. In order to reduce the time required for the lecture, Felix took the form of an assignment, but while complaining, the assignment was well ripened. So, somehow, the burden of taking good care of Ofelia didn't decrease, and as a result, it ended up raising only one outstanding student. "Even half of Millis-sama's excellent educators would have been better off at home... Have you ever given Sarasa-sama an opportunity? "I've been watching Yokoo ever since he got into trouble. Was Sarasa one of the factors that started when she tried to reach out to the Rotze family? --It's quite important." As for Felix, I thought the Rotze family's debt problem was painful, but the royal family couldn't afford to stick their necks into each other's problems. I thought about giving some advice, but I didn't think the Rozze family could make it work, and when I thought I'd look for another trigger, it was Sarasa who interrupted without trying. Felix changed his mind when he saw his knowledge, skills, and connections solve the debt problem without taking action. "I thought it was about time, so I decided to try." "Was it part of that that you called me to King's Landing?" "That's not right. I called the head of South Strag. If only the Baron himself could come and deal with it. Even if you stay here, it would be good if you could get the job done without any difficulty. --In fact, it ended in unfortunate results." Felix said, "Try it," but in fact, at that point, Yokoo was almost completely limited, and Cleansie was the last push. And Yokoo didn't even notice Felix was operating in the territory, so he took off his wings lightly. But it was unexpected that he suddenly tried to kill Sarasa. An alchemist who is trying to increase it as a national policy, and the danger of reaching out to good people, should be understood with a little thought. At best, Felix, who thought it was harassment of the store, had to dispatch his men in a hurry, causing him unexpected trouble. "I didn't think it was that stupid. If Sarasa died because of my mistakes, I would have been killed by Master Myris." Felix also fully understands that Ofelia likes Sarasa. I was visiting Sarasa before Yokoo because of that. I understood Sarasa's strengths, but it was Sarasa alone who could fight, Lorea and villagers who could be used as hostages around. The danger to Sarasa was well considered if Yokoo became comfortable shaking. "I didn't mean to go that far... I'm sorry. So what happens to this town? "You will have a deputy for a while, and you will rule as a direct authority. After that... it might be interesting to leave it to Sarasa. She's quite good, isn't she?" Felix smiled and talked, but Cleansie glanced a little at the words, which she didn't take for granted. "Were you a graduate of the Alchemist Training School? Excellent, but she must have been a civilian. It would be in line with His Highness's policy, but sudden reform would likely lead to a rebellion by the nobles." "I'm not trying to throw away anything noble. I want to learn more seriously and be desperate to improve my abilities. At least to my degree." "Hahaha... as harsh as you stroked me by Millis-sama" Knowing that "about me" was an impossible effort for everyone, Cleansie gave a dry laugh and shook her head. "At least you can try, right? We do not consider ourselves a weak country, but it is difficult to say even a powerful country. You have to be more critical. And as for Sarasa, we don't take civilians for nobility. It's not that hard." "Is it different? "Apparently I'm engaged to the heirs of the Roze family. Once you get into the Rotze house, Sarasa can leave the town to the nobles, the Counts." A good alchemist is a person who, as a nobleman, would definitely like to bring in. Cleansie thought that if that were the case, there would be enough marriage, and twisted her neck in confusion with her own information. "Sure, I don't think there was a boy at the Rozze house....? "With my eldest daughter, Iris." "Oh, are you two women....." You're an alchemist. If you can inherit it it, it's fine as a country. " Marriages between same-sex couples are not prohibited, but rather rare. Cleansie was puzzled, but Felix shook her head and shrugged her shoulders to continue. "--Perhaps you don't like seeing the worst man." Felix remembered what happened to the Rotze family and said that, but in fact, his imagination was almost correct. Iris was prepared for an unintentional marriage because of the aristocracy, but the opponent was Ho Barr. Besides the worst personality, the reality is that if you get married, you could take over the house. Sarasa appeared in such a desperate situation. The person who breaks down his marriage to Ho Barr, solves the debt problem, and makes a profit at home by marrying. Competent and not bad character. Compared to Ho Baal, heaven and earth. Even if Iris accidentally falls in love with a same-sex salad like that, he doesn't even have to go to it and say, "Shall we get married? I guess there's nothing I can do about it. "But I'm a little disappointed. Without it, I was wondering if Sarasa could be my wife." Felix slipped her eyes and moved on to the words she leaked. "Ha! That's exactly what I thought was difficult. It will be more rebellious than the Duke." "She is from an orphanage. Wouldn't it be better to keep it a proper nobleman's hideout? And I'm sure of what I can do. It's not impossible with the support of Master Millis." If you adopt a higher-ranking aristocrat after "the drop of a sardine", there will be no problem with your status as a daughter-in-law, and if you are a aristocrat, it is not that uncommon. However, where that is possible, it will be Sarasa herself who will hate it the most. She dreams of marrying a nice person, but still Felix is not eligible. As long as you marry him, you will surely choose Iris. And it seemed that Felix also understood, smiling bitterly and shrugging his shoulders. "Well, you can't actually do that. Thank you, I seem to be distant from her." "Huh, Your Highness? Even though it has the appearance that women like." "She seems to be looking beyond the appearance. It's easy to meet women who come close to appearance and status, but I can't meet a woman who will accept me after knowing the real me. It's hard." It's kind of like that, but Sarasa's distancing is that subtle shadow. A woman who knows and accepts it would be a little too valuable. Cleansie, who had a long relationship with Felix, knew Felix's heart, but she didn't say it directly and adorned her words. "Your Majesty's brilliance is hard for everyone to understand." "Fu, you don't have to compliment me. Fufufu" "No, I mean it. Hahaha" Those were the Felix who laughed all of a sudden, but eventually they sighed and changed their expression. "So, as for the deputy here....." "Yes, as your last servant, I will have the handover materials ready for your assignment." "That's right, Cleansie, why don't you be my deputy? "Wow, am I? But now, without Baron Kirk, I'm just a civilian. If I were such a deputy, it would be a lot of noise for the relatives of the Baron Kirk family...." "There are civilians in the bureaucracy. Even relatives, those who complain are already (...) present (...) (...) (...) (...) (...) (...) (...) so you don't have to worry." ......... Cleancy took a slight breath into the meaning contained in the words and said, 'Is that why you were distanced? I thought it was chilling, but I didn't say it to my mouth, and I kept silence. "If you refuse, you will send the agent of your choice here. I'm going to choose a decent person, but it's up to the deputy to take action." Cleansie lay down her eyes at Felix, who said that there might be a change in the direction of the town. There are many memories of his predecessors and his predecessors behind his head. To develop a small workplace town, we spare no effort to work together while we sleep, sweat, and fight arguments. What a vivid memory of Yokoo compared to that of Yokoo. The South Strag that we've created in this way may be different from what we thought it would be. Now that I was caught up in it, Cleansie had no choice. "Agent, will you take over? "... I will accept it with all due respect." Tears fell silently from the corner of Felix's eyes, which lay deep on his head after checking again.

"And, by the way, has Mr. Leonora changed anything in particular lately? ...... Well, I guess it's not called this. The Barr Chamber of Commerce seems to have been a bit of a mess, but is that about it? That was Iris' home, wasn't it? "You're familiar with that? I'm not going to spread the word about it..." It is natural for some information to flow beyond the mediation, but there is little room for the Rotze family to inform just bad stories on the outside, and there is no place for information to spread because they are small nobles close to anonymity in the first place. Even as an Associate Baron Kirk, no matter what happens before construction, the content of mediation is a substantial loss. I wouldn't make a public statement. Nonetheless, I have to say that Mr. Leonora's ability to gather information is quite high around a firm grasp of it. "Because information matters, to do business in a town like this. Originally, it was the Barr Chamber of Commerce where Yoku Barr had been erased and disappointed..." Mr. Figlione will take over Mr. Leonora's words. "It's like Howe Barr, who inherited the trail, was cutting a lot of empty bills. Sounds like a lot of rights were taken with certainty a while back" That's it. It's because the Rotze family's mediation has taken place and the eyes of Howe Barr's marriage to Mr. Iris are gone. Even if it's weak, it's a big difference without a noble sign. I know you were trying to rebuild the Barr Chamber of Commerce on that, but if you rely on it to force it, it's more obvious than seeing fire that it gets worse than the original when it's gone. "So, what about the Barr Chamber of Commerce now? "I wonder if it's crushed. I feel like I managed to survive on a small scale. A year ago, it was the Grand Chamber of Commerce." Mr. Filione laughs cheerfully "haha," and Mr. Leonora shrugs his shoulders too. "The beginning of the fall was the beginning of Sarasa's hand." "Really? Just me, I think I could only do enough to rock it a little. It was you two who pushed me down." If it were just me, it would be as far as kicking Yoku Bahr out of the village. I was able to make a disappointing profit because of Mr. Leonora's cooperation, and after I kicked him out, I let him leave and broke the Barr Chamber of Commerce stall, two of whom were Mr. Leonora and Mr. Filione. I don't really contribute there. "There, it sure is. Sarasa still hasn't had enough experience to deal with all of Kaiqiyama's shit." "But if we shoved it down, it was Iris who sank the Barr Chamber of Commerce that fell into the water by tapping it with a stick? Mr. Iris, who was abruptly told the story, raises his eyebrows and waves as he sifts through the flats of his protruding hands. "Wow, it's me!? Am I - or we haven't been able to do anything? I'm not proud of you at all, but the manager did everything for me!?" "I mean, stop." "Not enough to say stop. I paid for the fence (blemishes) that was entangled in Mr. Iris' leg. He said it wasn't for the two of us who pushed him that far." "That's not true. Yikes. Sarasa's been pushing for Baron Kirk, hasn't she? Hard to do, nobleman." "That's more than I did, because I just introduced people -" And so on, when the three of us are doing it, Mr. Iris, who pulled a step back, leaks the potpourri and the word as troubled. "From me, it just seems like a humble battle of belly-black..." We face to face with Mr. Iris's sentiments, which are subtly hard to deny. In my case, I didn't get my hands on this one, it's been a little over there, so I just had no choice but to respond... from the edge, can't help but to look like that? Because the results are coming out. "Oh, Iris. Nothing. I'm not telling you to go belly-black, but if you don't be more careful, you're gonna fool me again, okay? "Is that how they grasp it..." Mr. Iris gets stuck in words with what Mr. Filione said, even though he hasn't explained it, but seems to grasp quite the details. "But in me. We still have the manager." "Speaking of which, Mr. Leonora. Actually, you came into our store the other day, didn't you? Associate Baron Kirk." We were going to talk in a less good direction, so we blocked Mr. Iris' words and fixed the track. Turn to what I wanted to ask Mr. Leonora. "To Sarasa's? In person?" I nod to Mr. Leonora, who unexpectedly tilted his neck, and continue the words. "Yes, I came all of a sudden, and I've been putting up a claim... to say what, you look like an amateur, what you're doing is a chimp level... you had zero cunning like you put the Rozze family in a trap, right?" "Does he mean he's going directly... Speaking of which, Phee, is that grandpa not here now? "Hey, I think I was out. So it is." We nod at each other like we were convinced, Mr. Leonora and Mr. Filione. But I and Mr. Iris have no idea what's going on. "'The Grandpa', what? "It's a little subtle to say that Associate Baron Kirk's adjunct... but I have a grandfather who's been serving me since my predecessors" "This grandfather is the cutter. Is it this grandfather who's essentially partitioning the quasi barons, and you feel like he's in proper control of the stupid quasi baron Kirk? "Is that, like, mastermind? "Uh-huh, are you suppressing it one way or the other? Do you manage to fit what Associate Baron Kirk calls impotence within a realistic range? "Yes, yes. With this grandfather, it's no exaggeration to say this town is flourishing." From both of us, Associate Baron Kirk has a terrible rating. But it actually feels like we've met, and I might agree. Just more than that... "Mr. Iris, did you know? "No, it's my first ear. I knew the current Associate Baron Kirk couldn't... but speaking of which, I think your father told me that it was an elderly man who came out to mediate" "Probably. I don't usually try to be on the table, that old man." "Really? "Sometimes you're away like this one, aren't you? This is a great opportunity for a situation without a visitor, based on the enemies of Baron Kirk." "Hey, hey, if I stir you up, I'll give you an easy rundown. Hey, if it's just Associate Baron Kirk. You must have stormed out on your own this time." "Maybe it's not a zero possibility that Grandpa's instructions..." Mr Leonora, who said so, thought only a little and immediately shook his head. "Probably not. It's not beneficial. Something I can't see winning muscles against Sarasa." "Oh no, make me look like a monster..." It is a little unintentional. "How cute and weak of me, I'm just a girl, right? "That's a lie" Mr. Iris immediately denied it. "Mmm." "I don't deny you're cute, but you're not a 'just' girl, are you? - Mm-hmm. If you don't deny it, let's forgive it. Seeing us take over like that, Mr. Filione laughs. "Well, if you don't think about it later, it's possible, right? But then, whatever you think, the Associate Baron Kirk family will be crushed. Even though it is deadly to just attack the alchemist without justification, Sarasa is the disciple of Master Ophelia. Sarasa would know what would happen. "... well, that's right. If you were a master, you wouldn't hesitate. Besides, if only to the extent of the Associate Baron family." Even higher nobles, if they say something unpleasant, are masters who kick their asses and kick them out of the store. If anything were to happen to me, the disciple, the retaliation would surely be done. That's how much I think they take care of it. Glad to hear it. "So if you're a grandfather, don't worry in a way, but on the contrary, what would you do impulsively if you were an Associate Baron Kirk himself... maybe you should be a little careful" "Yes, I'll be careful. So, is it time for some free time, Mr. Iris? We need to find a place to stay." "Right. Lord Leonora, don't you know what kind of inn you recommend? "You don't have to look for an inn or anything, just stay. At this hour, there's not always a good place to stay, is there? Looking outside, it was already a little dim. Sure, it's a little late to take the inn... "No, there's also Mr. Iris this time, and I'm not going to bother you" "Young kids don't shy away! I'm not bothered enough to stay with you guys. 'Cause there's like a room for the two of us to stay." Mr. Leonora pounds on my back, trying to resign, and Mr. Filione smiles and nods, too. "Nora says this, too, and you really don't have to shy away, do you? I also buy ingredients for four people." Looking at Mr. Iris as to what was going on, Mr. Iris nodded cocklessly and said small, "Isn't that good? The manager wouldn't be able to afford much money right now, would he?," etc. Ugh... I didn't know I even had to worry about the inn bill! Even if it's not a big amount compared to debt, if it's also a town about South Strag, the cost of accommodation is never cheap. I'm asking you from here, but you're inviting me from the other side... if there's a way you can save money, is there any reason not to choose that? It's a little pitiful, but I can't stomach it on my back. "... Now, I'll take care of you" I swallowed a lot and bowed my head to Mr. Leonora and the others.

Gong, Kate's gaze also concentrates on that box where she started making noises with Gong. The two of them, who were somewhat apart, also approached Nordrad, trying to get themselves on board, and peered into his hand. "Is that... could it be ice tooth bat fangs? "Yeah. I was wondering what to make it, but for some reason, you could have bought it at an affordable price, fortunately." "Heh, at an affordable price" From the Iris and the others, the reason for this is clear, but no matter how affordable, the quantity is quantity. Normal people are never the kind of amount that can be handled unconstitutionally. - It shouldn't be, but Nordrad is grabbing his fangs unconstructively and pouring them into a rough box of them. Given the cost of that grasp, Kate and other sighs are the only ones left, so she tries not to think about it and repeats the question. "What is that doing? "This is an artifact that boosts the magic around you. Of course, I need raw materials like this." As for Kate, I wanted to ask what she intended, but what returned was an explanation of the effects of the smelter (artifact). "Raising the Magic of the Perimeter" is not an end in itself for any number of researchers, and "what do you expect as a result of raising it" is important. Nordrad, however, does not go on to explain it any further, but measures the amount of magic around him with the retrieved measuring instrument and notes the value in the notebook at hand. "... water attributes rise and magic levels rise. If we just look at the amount of magic, there's going to be some kind of change... but nothing." The next thing Nordrad took out was a bag with flaming stones that Iris and the others worked hard to collect. Now flip it over the slit this again unmanipulatively. Flaming stones sucked into the crap and boxes and black boxes that start making even louder noises with gowns, gowns, gowns. Iris and I thought about those prices consumed while I looked at them and even started remembering the glare, but the Nordrad ones checked the measuring instrument again without looking concerned. "The water drops slightly and the fire rises. More than enough magic...? "Nord! What are you going to do?" If Iris asks out loud so that he is attacked by some absurd sense of anxiety and can't be beat by the sounds that echo from the black box, Nordrad looks back at Iris and answers equally loudly. "Conditions for Salamander! Salamanders may also appear in or around the same place once they have been killed. I believe the amount of magic is having a huge impact on that." The sound that was echoing from the black box while Nordrad was explaining was broken, and the silence returned around. There goes Iris and Kate's, squeaky voice. "Magic power... show up...? "What is that...? "The water is stronger than I thought. Sometimes there are few flame stones... but do I have to use them?" You think the explanation is over with that, Nordrad turns to the box again and clamors with Gossogoso in his luggage. That's how I took it out, a few red scales. It was so beautiful in the palm of my hand, shining in clear red (not for me), but what bothered me more about Iris than its beauty was that I felt it looked kind of familiar to the scale. "No way, that's..." Whatever you think, I don't see a good future. Nordrad nods very naturally to Kate, who prays it is a mistake and asks terribly in a trembling voice. "Yeah. That's a salamander scale. I didn't want to use it because it was expensive." "Wait -" "You have no choice, do you? Ho." Shortly after Kate stops, the scales slip into the slit of the black box. At the same time, the loud noise sounded again. No, the sound is definitely louder than earlier, and the black box starts to rattle and shake. "Oh, hey! That shake, is it normal? "I don't think that's a problem, do you? See, the value of the fire attribute is rising properly." Nordrad showing Iris the meter with that being said, but from Iris, that didn't matter now. "No, I'm not! This smelter (artifact)! Wouldn't it break? "That's okay, I think. I bought it recently in South Strag, and it's fast to break." "What's South Strag... from Leonora? "No, another store. I passed in front of it when I came to this village and it was crumbling, was it poor management? ......... I only have a bad feeling. Such thoughts shared between Iris and Kate, even without exchanging words. If there were Sarasa on this occasion, she would have strongly agreed again. A black box that gradually vibrates as if it responds to their thoughts like that. A box with all that magic caged in it. In case of a runoff, what happens? Out of such fear, Iris and Kate, step, step, step back. Rattling. Gotgoto. Gah! Gah! It's like something's jammed up, you even start to hear that sound -. Bong! The top plate bounces and flies and rolls to the ground with the gallon. And something that overflows from it, red light and glitter. Look at that, Nordrad tilts his neck. "... oh? "Oh, hey! It's okay, is it? To the point that it didn't turn out to be a ruinous thing, Iris stroked his chest down a bit, but a situation that clearly doesn't seem like normal behavior. I can't even feel safe. "Oh, yeah. It's okay, because the amount of magic is up properly, and the value of the fire attribute exceeds expectations -" Iris stuffed Nordrad, who checked the meter and answered so without looking too concerned. "Not that way! The smelter (artifact) is broken and overflowing!?" "Immediately, no effect on the human body, do you think? "Immediately? "Think?" Iris' eyes set upon the disturbing words. To its force, Nordrad waved hastily. "No, I don't! Because it's just magic! Sometimes people who are less resistant to magic may feel bad, because normal people have no problem! In the case of people with little or no chance of touching magic, sudden exposure to massive amounts of magic can result in symptoms of magic sickness, feeling sick, feeling drunk or, in some cases, unconscious. That in itself is not something that leaves a negative effect on the body, but it is dangerous in a different sense than magic sickness if you fall into such a state outside of a safe place. That is true even in situations where we do not know what will happen, as the Iris do today. "Right." "Then I wish I could say so" Knowing that it has no effect on us, Iris and Kate exhale in a ho and a relief. The two have quite a bit of magic, and magic resistance is normal. The amount of magic that drifts into this space in the first place has been quite a bit for some time, so it would already be if you felt sick. "So, the smelter (artifact) seems to be broken, but is there a problem? You said the amount of magic exceeded expectations? "Oh, yeah, you are. Of course I'm sorry it broke, but you did the least you could do, so for now, do you have a problem with this experiment? "Experiment... what? He said something about magic and attributes." I guess I'm happy to be able to open my thoughts. To Iris' doubts, Nordrad began to smile and speak well. "Usually demons occur in places with a lot of magic. This should be correct from my previous research, but unfortunately I haven't been able to confirm it yet. Magic is a diffuse thing, so even though you know" areas where demons are likely to occur, "you don't know" where they occur. " "... Hmm? "But salamanders, they have pretty limited nest conditions. So again, I predicted that the conditions regarding the place of occurrence were the same." Again, I only have a bad feeling about this. Iris and Kate sharing their thoughts again. Face to face with a drawn look. And this time, the thought was not betrayed.

Wholesale Materials () First use the weakened 'Frozen' to properly cool the corpse. It's important to regulate the power because freezing here ruins it. When it gets somewhat cold, I drag it straight to the back of the house. Of course, it's not the back yard, it's the outside of the walls. I don't want to stain my beautifully maintained garden with blood, and the demolition show at the store is a little too exciting. If I came to see Lorea or something, I might cry. Dismantle using the tools I have taken from the workshop and take the necessary areas. Failure here ruins it, so be careful, be careful. The first thing to take is still the heart, liver, and eyeballs. All of them have to be processed immediately, so valuables that are hard to come by. And then you can use your stomach, intestines, nails, etc., so make sure. Fur and meat are like any other beast, so why don't we send Mr. Elles to take them down? You can dismantle it yourself and sell it, but it'll take time. "It's more useless to lose the freshness of the material." First place the secured material in the workshop and drag the excess area to Mr. Elles' house next door. "Hello ~" "Oh, Sarasa. What? You're a big prey." Speaking from the outside, Mr. Elles, who immediately came out, raises his voice a little frightened by the angler bear I brought. "Could you take this down? "- Oh, the meat and fur after the ingredients are removed" It was Mr. Elles who didn't seem to understand what I meant for a moment, but he understood right away. Maybe the same thing happened when my old grandfather was around. "Yes. I thought it would be better to leave it to the experts. - It's a pain in the ass." "Ha ha. That's right! All right, I got it, I got it! How about eight grand? "Is that good? It's okay if it's cheaper, right? Blah, you can even say it's extra for me, so it's profitable to give it away for free. "No problem. It's not very popular as raw meat, but it's been selling smoked meat for collectors a lot lately. It would taste pretty good if you handled it well, and this meat." "Really? Okay, so. I'll carry you." Oh, I'm sorry. Mr. Elles' house is the only hunter, and a cabin dedicated to demolition work is built on the back. Mr. Elles' husband, Mr. Jasper, is basically like hunting alone, so he doesn't seem to take home too much of his prey, but even this bear never manages to get in. I move the Anger Bear again and push that giant inside the cabin. A chunk of meat that is still likely to exceed 0 kilos, even though it has been somewhat removed from the contents. No matter how wide Mr. Elles is, it must be hard to move this around, so leave it at the entrance and say, 'I'll take care of it later!' Cause I can feel it. ◇ ◇ ◇ Mr. Elles, when you get back from your house, close the key by lowering the 'ring the bell if you need it' bill in front of the store. We set up a call bell about a week ago so that we could get a cage in the workshop even during business hours. With the current frequency of visits, it has always been because it was just not efficient. If it's just smelting, we can still do it after closing, and some work can go on at the counter, but we can only take care of the herbal fields while there's day. You can hire a store number if you have more customers, but for the time being, I guess. "Well, I guess I'll handle it quickly" The nails are good enough to be washed, but the other parts will be worthless if not treated thoroughly. The heart, liver and eyes in particular are difficult to process. "But I'm used to it too..." Many people feel bad about handling this kind of gut system by bluing their faces in school internships as well. I didn't feel any worse either, but it's something I was pretty surprised to process. But that's just the first one, too. After a while, everyone gets used to scratching animals without changing their complexion. No, is it too much to say that we're all used to it? Because those who are unfamiliar drop their units and disappear. It's not sweet enough for someone who says "I'm not scared" or "disgusting" to graduate. Well, the more people who say that, in fact, there's no problem at all. That's because it's performance against the opposite sex. Anyone who seriously sucks won't even be able to afford to say that. Even in the same period, some people had good grades but that one didn't work and quit...... Without you. Ma, her house looks wealthy, so you won't have to be an alchemist. Orphans can't afford that, so there was just no one to quit with that. "- Yeah, that's it" If the heart and eye are bottled and the rest of the material is dried or powdered, it can be stored without loss of quality for quite a long time. It may be an area of specialty because it was also planted quite well at the master's when it came to the handling of this area. "Speaking of which... Could you have foreseen this? The master said, "Send me if you have any rare materials," but if you can't handle these, you can't even send them. Since I was working part-time, my master was going to fly me to the edge...? "... No, you're wearing too much." The purchase of materials is an important task of the alchemist and cannot be bought unless it can be processed in such a way that it can be stored. That's why he taught me politely, I'm sure. "Well, what am I going to do with this material? I can make the potion, an alchemy drug that uses these materials, but since it is not much needed, there is probably no one to buy it even if arranged here. In the first place, it won't be as expensive as ordinary villagers can buy. "You can make it for experience... but it's just time to go sell it. It might suck" As a matter of course, we can't just consume the materials bought here. As a result, my store as it stands has accumulated less material and less cash. If it's not time to go wholesale, I don't mind the funds in hand. Its primary candidate is a town called South Strag, which is closest to this village. If you travel on foot, is it a distance of two to three days? Even when I came to this village, that was a boarding carriage, and from there it was on foot, so I know what kind of town for once. Neither comparable to the Wang capital, but quite a large and populous city on the border. Oh, by the way, the name of this village is "Yock Village”. No one is using it. As much as I saw it in my school store info paperwork, so much so that no one even knew the way when I heard it in South Strag. It's unknown enough to add the information "A small village near the Great Tree Sea" to finally make you understand "Oh, that village". I think the villagers are barely aware of their names either. I don't think you know exactly what your name is... but there isn't, is there? Because it's an unknown village, I think you should go say hello to the South Strag alchemy store and talk to them so they can buy the material. Because once I show my face, I might be able to ask someone else to transport me. For example, if Darna, the grocery store, asks you to sell it after purchasing it, and you think she's just an amateur, maybe you can look under her feet? But if you know you represent the alchemist, you should be fine...... Because I am young, I may be insulted, but in that case, I am hesitant to borrow the authority of my master! "Yeah, let's do that! When I was so determined, I took the backpack my master had given me and started packing the material I had bought so far. ◇ ◇ ◇ South Strag, a little urban town on the border. In such a corner of town, there was my destination. Yes, a bit of a stylish cafe. That's right, you went in on the way to the move, and last time, you cried. Huh, wholesale materials? That's more like it. I need to get a tummy first. "It seemed a little expensive, but it's good, right? No matter who you excuse, I squealed like that, and I stormed there with my eyes open. It was a little crowded over time, so I said, "You're going to have to wait a little, okay? I was asked," but I honestly decide to wait here. My order turned relatively quickly because the shops in question were relatively large and the number of seats was considerable. "Black tea...... wow, there are so many kinds! Uh-huh, a little hard work here...... some intermediate stuff! So I said, "Uh, isn't it expensive? 'I don't say. Because as far as I'm concerned, I'm trying pretty hard to get into this store! "I'd love to have some sweets, but it's lunch and... here, let's ask for 'vegetables and cheese on thin baked bread'" I don't know, but it feels like something stylish. "That's 150 rare. Pretty excited though...... ugh, good luck here and ask for fruit cake too! Five regular lunches at least. I worked pretty hard! I have money, but I feel like saving a while, huh? After ordering and taking a breather, I'll look around the store again. Do you care about the atmosphere, the inside of the shop is cleaned up beautifully and plants potted, painted and even hung with beautiful curtains on the windows. Naturally, I don't have anything like that in a regular dining room. Of course there is a cost to the interior, but if you're going to make it so well cleaned, in a way, you have to pick a customer. I try my best to clean up Mr. Dilal's place and stuff, but sometimes he comes back full of gatherers and mud, so there are limitations. When it was too bad, he kicked it out before entering the store and said, "Wash yourself!" I'm having a drink, though. "I'd like to imitate it because it's nice... but is it about plants I can do? Our customers are predominantly gatherers, and it's impossible to base this atmosphere. I already have the curtains on, and even decorating the paintings, I'm like, "What's the effect of this smelter Artifact?" or something like that. "But maybe I could put down a small table or something? Lorea's been coming to see me a lot lately. Since I started buying materials, it seems that Mr. D'Arna no longer has to go to town to sell them, and he spends more time in the village. For that matter, Lorea no longer needs to stand in the store number, and when she comes to visit us, she goes home after some chatter about the Wang Capital for a while. I have a chair that Mr. Geberg gave me, but some tables, maybe I can relax a little more, tea or something. I was wondering if I could buy it if I was going to keep coming to see you... talk about Wang Du, if I don't have anything else to do, I've already used it, and you don't want to come to see me, right? There's one thing here, to raise your friend level, souvenirs, should you buy and go home? But Mr. D'Arna comes to this town often, and I wonder if there's anything that makes Lorea happy? "Thank you for waiting" With that in mind, my sister-in-law brought me what I ordered. And when I finish arranging them on the table, I laugh nicely and bow my head. "Take your time" "Ah, yes. Thank you." Hopefully. That's just expensive. Customer service is also polite. Basics, "aye!" It's not like a dining room where you just hang up and put it down with Dodon. Don't we need customer service like that? Guest base, it's different. Eat, eat. "Is this thin baked bread?" I'll put tea and cake behind me and observe the thin baked bread I eat for the first time. The bread itself is not so special. Even if we don't have an oven, it feels like we could make it with a frying pan. - No, in the first place, the stove itself, it's not there yet. "What I'm putting on is vegetables and cheese, and then little meat? This red sauce is a little different." Conversely, except for the source, which is normal. Cut into bite sizes and into mouths. "Muggle... yummy, huh? Tastes better than you'd imagine from the looks of it. There is nothing special about vegetables and meat, but the richness of the cheese, the sourness of the sauce and a little sweetness match very well. Bread that looks like it won't swell is good in this dish. "This sauce, spices on tomatoes? Hmm, spices seem difficult." I want to eat it in the village because it's delicious, but I can't imitate the taste of this sauce, especially if I'm not good at cooking. As an alchemist who specializes in analysis, I'd like to analyze about the spices I use for my sauce... "Yeah, if the ingredients sell high, the spices you get in this city, buy them all the way home" And cheese. It's hard to get in the village. "Tea is... normal... Is the fruit cake... bi, subtle...? No, it's never delicious, is it? But what do you mean, tea and sweets that come out at the master's tea time taste better... Regardless of the tea, Maria always made the sweets...... Is this, is Maria awesome? Or is this store no big deal? I don't know because I don't have any judgment criteria! Even if you live in Wang capital, you've never eaten or walked around, and there's no way sweets come out in an orphanage. "There are quite a few people in there, so I don't think it's a good idea, but I think it might be coming in this store atmosphere instead of flavor..." Does this store seem acceptable even if it doesn't taste good? "I don't care. I don't know what public appreciation is." By my standards, the rating is a slightly higher store instead of flavor. I'm not saying I'm never coming again, but isn't it enough that I dare to visit? Going around all kinds of shops in this city in the future, it might change again. Still, it was never unsavory, so I took the time to taste it slowly for about the price I paid, and I left the store behind. "There are two Alchemist shops in this city." The area has been researched by village gatherers. Of the three gates in this city, there is a gate that leads to the village, one near it. Square in the center of town, another one a little off the edge of it. Neither of them changed much as the collectors rated them, saying that they "often use the closer ones"...... "Shall we go to the nearest one first? It's also close to where you are now, so I'll head over there for a second. Its storefront, which I've seen on foot for about a few minutes, is as big as our store. Of course, I don't think the prices of stores are quite the same in the country and in this city, and there should be no such thing as cheap as our store. Given that, it would still be an independent alchemist's shop after training in some store in due course. Uh-huh, I feel a little dirty around the store, but is this what it is all over the city? A master would surely be angry, and make him clean it. After completing my observation of the store, I push the slightly old door into it. "There you are." What I heard walking into the store was the voice of a slightly unfathomable man. At your age, aren't you thirty? I'm concerned about the slightly worthy gaze... but I'll take a look at the product for now. The basics are smelting drugs, after all. The lineup is very different from ours. I also keep the smelter "Artifact", but since the number is small, is the basic order production? Is there no line of products that require advanced technology to make, because they cannot be sold, or is there a shortage of alchemist arms in this store? ... Yeah, okay. Get a little tempered and head to the counter. "Um, I'd like to sell this." "Amen? Which" What I put on the counter was the heart of an angler bear in a bottle. The clerk, who took it up and moved Pickle and Frown, says dissatisfied. "On top of being a little old, it's not handled well either. Twelve thousand." Heh, old? So, it's not handled well? Hmm. - Are you kidding me? I push and kill my inner dissatisfaction and put the next material on the table. "- Really? What's this?" Now the liver...... "You too. Twenty grand together. All right?" There's no way it's good. I take both of them back from the clerk's hand trying to take them, and I turn them into a backpack. "Really? Sorry to bother you." "Ah, hey! Wait!" There is no way to wait. Shut out the noise you hear from behind and just leave the store. Walk a while, check the back. - Why don't you just follow me? Phew, take a breath. "He said there was no difference between them, but it was the worst store. I don't think a lot of people use it as collectors in our village, but let's just keep an eye out." There's my store, so I don't think anybody's bothered to come this far, but if they buy me down, it's pathetic, so I should tell you, right? I'm not harassing you because you never like the clerk you were with, are you? It's for the gatherers, yeah, sure. "I still have such an alchemist. - Could I have been licked? Did they happen to get the material, but did they think? If you find out I'm an alchemist and that attitude, you're just stupid, aren't you? I was wondering if you thought if it was slightly awesome, you could handle it? To that extent, there was nothing powerful about it. Because Mr. Elles' husband, Mr. Jasper, would be many times more amazing just standing there. When I was first introduced, I accidentally retreated from "Azusa". If I see you on the night lane, I'll probably run away. Unless you know him. He's actually a very good guy. "It would be nice if the other one was a good store. Neither is' no difference 'bad quality, is it? I walked out towards another alchemist's shop, feeling a little melancholy.

Push () "Well, let's talk about the merchant." At the end of the meal, Mr. Filione made his way to the store number, where Mr. Leonora cut out so. "Yes, please" "Yeah. But it's going to be a long story, so can I get you something to drink... Sarasa, can I make you a cup of tea? I'll leave that to Phee." When I nodded to Mr. Leonora, who would call me now, it was a cold cup of tea that came out. Unlike the Suya tea I have been drinking a lot lately, light brown fragrant tea. It was tea I had never had, but this is good. "Phew, it's delicious. - I knew there was a refrigerator." "It's Phee who brewed it, though. The refrigerator is mostly at the alchemist's, right? If you're an alchemist looking up there, you must make it." "So is Sarasa, right? 'They say otherwise, and I nod. "Right. If it's a good time, I can make it to sell, but if I can't, I'll have to use it myself. You couldn't even sell Sarasa, could you? That village..." "Yes. You can't sell it. So I gave up from the start and made it to fit our kitchen. And the freezer with me." "Oh, I'll make it on a set, right, that one? I don't use it much except in the summer." "Right. And our freezer -- oh, now you have ice tooth bat fruit in it." "Did you collect it!? Uh, but is it just right sometimes? If Sarasa went there herself, she'd be able to bring it back with no problem." "That cave over there wasn't hunted all the time, so the group was pretty big. The recovered fruit also amounted to a good number. - Shall I share it? "Is it good? Pretty valuable substitute, though." "I'm not very interested in it myself, and I'm having trouble selling it to someone, so I was going to ask my master to do it." So far, I've left it in the freezer, left it alone, haven't I? I think I'll taste it for once, too, but Andre and the others I took home and ate rated it as' delicious... and I think ',' good with normal liquor 'and' tasted fancy '. It wasn't like I was rushing to try it, and they didn't try to eat any more, and they're asking me to sell it. "Then can you split it a little? I'd love to try it in the tale." "I understand. Then you'll bring it next time you come. It's hard to keep with people, so I think we're a little ahead of them." "Yeah, I don't mind. At the next purchase or something." If you carry it as it is, it will melt, so I'll have to carry it. Discuss the required number and buyout price, re-compartmentalize, and get to the point. "First of all, his name is Yoku Bahr. He was a merchant on a fairly large scale with a shop here in South Strag." Not even a big merchant, but a pretty big one. Therefore, Mr. Leonora seems to have narrowed down his opponent relatively easily. "The products I'm dealing with are like alchemy related materials, smelter artifacts, smelter potions..." "Not only the ingredients, but also the smelting drug Potion? "Yes, that's the problem." With regard to materials, some do not have to be processed to deteriorate much, and merchants sometimes handle items that have been processed so that the alchemist can store them. If the smelter "Artifact" is also an easy object to understand the effect, it may be handled. Just like I'm unloading my cooling hat to Mr. Gretz and the others. But a little different when it comes to the smelting drug Potion. There are also expiration dates, etc. which vary depending on the storage state, even though the effects are not known from just looking at them. Besides, I generally use the smelting drug Potion some time after I bought it. It's hard to complain if they say, 'Your way of preserving it was bad,' even if it didn't work or had a strange effect. Therefore, purchasing the smelting drug Potion from outside the alchemist is quite risky and it is quite difficult for ordinary merchants to treat it as a commodity. "I'm also curious about the seller, where are you purchasing it from? Even an alchemist holds it? "That's close. I owe money from York - no, it's like I'm using an alchemist owed money by York. in a rather irrational state." "Were you carried? When asked back to the way she was concerned, Ms. Leonora nodded with anger seeping into her bitter expression. "Yes, I've looked into it, and it all feels like it's fallen into place." "Does that mean you won't get caught? "From what I've looked into, it's hard because it's malicious, but it's not clarity and illegal." Mmm...... that's for sure. What we're doing in our village is close to that, and it's probably futile where we complained to the lord. "It's just that they're all targeting young kids." "Being poked at for lack of experience, deceived," he said? "That's what I think. You just set up a shop, you don't have any money, do you? Alchemy costs money, so even a few mistakes can run out of money at once..." "Oh, you have that" For example, if the smelter Artifact is requested to be made. I wish it was an easy one, but if you stretch your back a bit and get a request for a difficult one...... once you fail to make it, it's very bad. If you have money, you can buy the material again and make it. At that point, you're almost out of profits, but you can take orders, and with the exception of your own efforts, you don't even lose money. But what if I don't have the money? After ruining the material, turn down the order and make a loss, or where do you borrow money from and manage to zero the loss? And in case you fail again, only debt will remain. "If it's my mistake, I don't think I can help it to some extent, but when it's set up..." What if, for example, there was a merchant who came to sell the right materials at a slightly lower price when he didn't have the money? I would normally buy it. But what if that material was meticulously crafted and made it easier to fail? Of course, there are immature alchemists who can't pinpoint the quality of the material... "You don't like it, do you? "I don't like it." Not knowledgeable people, but the same alchemist, and as for me of my age. "... Oh, could it be me, I'm the target? It was a slightly dazed gaze from Mr. Leonora who said that to me. "Did you just notice? You are, for sure. If you do a little research on Sarasa, you're a duck no matter what." Freshly graduated New American Alchemist. In a rural village, get a cheap shop and open it. I definitely don't have much experience. Well! What a gullible opponent! - It's about me. "But they're totally bad this time, aren't they? Wrong opponent." "Yep...? And I'm kind of like a bad person..." "Not bad, but not the one who can't be alarmed" "Really? I'm a new America with little experience, aren't I? It's a chick." Totally out of heart. But what Mr. Leonora is pointing at me is the jitsu eye. "Chicks don't come to me to root for me. Up to the village where I live at best. By contrast, Sarasa, don't you think our shop is reaching out to the surrounding towns? "No way, no way. ... I wondered if it would turn out that way if it flowed to Mr. Leonora in large quantities." All you have to do is give Mr. Gretz some ice tooth bat fangs, too, right? I went to the dealership and redeemed the money. "It's all around the prep... yeah, naturally, I'm flushing it too. Thanks to you, the ice tooth bat fang market is crashing around here" "It is. It's pathetic who's collecting them." Yeah, not at all. When I laugh nicely, Mr. Leonora shakes his head and smiles bitterly. "I'll put it well. I feel a little scared of Sarasa's smile.... but the fang market was up until a while ago, it seems like it's Yorke's fault, and I'm not at all sympathetic." "Oh, you were involved from around there." He said we came to our village because we had a lot of teeth there - or because we flushed the fang-based smelter Artifact. "Honestly, it's hard for a merchant without a code of conduct to manipulate the market for alchemy materials." "Right. If you get hit by profit alone, you're in trouble." Alchemists shouldn't sell cheap on their own, because of all the restrictions. It's a national policy, so if you break this big, scary people will come. "Right? So if you can, you want to crush it, you Yoke Barr. Sarasa, can you help me? "Yeah, I don't mind. If I can do it." Bad merchants, don't perish. No mercy. Me and Mr. Leonora then set up a strategy together to ensure that Yorke was damaged, assuming several patterns. Follow each pattern, determine each role, and also hold detailed meetings. "But that's great, Mr. Leonora. Follow me closely where I don't realize it." "No, Sarasa's pretty good, too, huh? I don't think I'm that old." "Really? But this is going to work." Even at this stage, our win is almost certain. On top of that, it depends on his greed how far the yoke will crumble to. That's very good. "Looking forward to it? "Yeah, right." I smile cuter at Mr. Leonora with a nickel and a very bad grin. Filione, who just came in, muttered, 'You're similar to each other...' I decided I didn't hear you...

"Ha... I'll ask the three of you, then. Now all I need is some beans and a little salt, and some rusty nails and stuff that's easy to get, so I'll put it right in the making." "Beans? Salt? I don't know... you use weird stuff, right? Kind of like cooking." "Mm-hmm. Guidance, here's the deal, huh? Alchemy. Just disrespect me from the kitchen, it's not very different from the leaves and ore shards you usually use, is it? "If you say so, I guess so..." To my explanation, Lorea doesn't break the subtle look while I'm convinced. I know it feels that way because it's a normal thing in the kitchen, but there are lots of ingredients for smelting drugs (potions) that can be eaten normally. Or, whether it tastes good or not, most of the smelting drugs (potions) used for illness and injury can be taken, so you can't put in anything you can't eat. "Look, even the honey from the rotten bees before this is an ingredient we use for alchemy, but we treat it non-toxic and eat it normally? "" Ugh. " You remind me of the ugliness of that time in my words that leaked with polarity, Mr. Iris and Mr. Kate, all together, face to face. Speaking of which, that honey, I just bought it out and left it in the warehouse. I don't think it's safe to sell just materials that have a lot of use. "And, Lord Store Manager, when you can forget about that... I, for once, am the woman before my dowry..." "Should I forget? That honey is delicious." I don't rot, so I don't have any problems at all with forgetting it for a while, but I can't really forget it as it is. Naturally, we have to decide whether we want to sell the rest or eat it ourselves, as we will take the portion to use as an ingredient for smelting. I'm a little sorry about just the delicious stuff, but if Mr. Iris and the others don't like it, maybe it's better not to put it on our table and sell it. "As for me, I thought I'd eat about half of it..." "Well, when they say that... don't worry" "Something that was so delicious. Hey, that honey. - After that, it was hell." You remembered the flavor, it was Kate with a slightly grumpy look on her face, but that look soon sinks more than ever. "Sa, Sarasa, is that honey, after all, expensive? "Right. That's pretty expensive compared to regular honey. It's edible, but it's also used as an alchemy material." Even honey was a luxury product, a high ridge flower out of my reach. ... Well, when I called you to my master, you were usually on the table. It is also because of that that I know the taste. "Using beeswax and honey from a rotten fruit bee, Maria made me a treat called Canulette, which was delicious, too. The surface is crisp, moist inside, sweet and..." "Gokuri...... Is it that good? "Yeah. Rotten bee honey tastes great as it is, but with a little alcohol in it, I think anyone who cares. But once baked, it flies better and tastes better." Even with Maria's exceptional arms, I think it was only because she used rotten fruit bee honey that it tasted so good. Honestly, I've never had such a delicious treat before in my life. But naturally so is that. Given the price of honey, that cannula is a super fancy treat. If I were you now, it would still be a price I would never be able to afford back then. I have that honey on hand now... do you have that recipe in the book I got? Even though it's hard to make as much stuff as Maria's, if it's on it, why don't we make it once? I also need a mould, so it's not ready to be made, but if you want to make your own mould, you need to order it from Mr. Jizzed, because there's a way. "Uh, the manager? Speaking properly about that, Lorea, Mr. Iris called out somewhat reluctantly. "What is it, Mr. Iris?" "That was a bitter memory, for sure, but I think we can get over it. Hey, Kate? "Yeah, right. Instead, we should overwrite it with good memories and erase it. That's what I think. What do you think? I mean, you want cannula. He was two very understandable expressions, but immediately lowers his eyebrows like trouble. "Oh, but if it seems financially strict..." "No, that's okay. Fortunately, we can afford it financially now." The cost of selling Salamander's materials remained sufficient to repay the Rozze family's debts, as well as in the form of royalties for the new building from Mr. Dilal. I haven't repaid from Master Adelbert, and the alchemists who bought the claims on the Yoke Barr thing don't seem to be able to afford to repay them yet, but in the long run, so I can expect to earn money from them. For a little while, there should be no problem adding color to your regular diet. "Heh, I get it. Well, let's still keep about half of it for us to eat." As soon as I said that, I also leaked a smile to the three of them who made their faces shine. ◇ ◇ ◇ I had just decided on an approximate policy, and I was quick, getting ready. The most time-consuming thing to make this time is still alchemy (homunculus). Compared to resonant stones and floating tents that can be managed by piercing work, alchemy (homunculus) cannot be completed without ensuring culture time. "For once, three days should be enough for the size to make this one, but..." Just for the first time, a little anxious. If it fails, it's just a lot of damage. In my purse. "Just follow the procedure and you'll be fine, right? Again, load the whole alchemy thoroughly and prepare the alchemy kettle. This time, a one-handed pot-sized alchemy kettle is used. Throw in multiple salamander scales, Hell Flame Grizzly eyeballs, large ice tooth bat fangs, and a little Demonic Crystal Stone and water for this. If stirred for about a few minutes while instilling magic, the material that was initially chattering, corny and rolling gradually loses its shape and turns into a red, drooling liquid. "No problem so far. Add more ingredients..." Collect some of the ingredients that line the shelves, weigh them and go inside the pan. Until they are all melted, stir thoroughly again, and add beans, salt, and rusty nail-sharpened objects brought from the kitchen as well. At this point, it just looks like soup with beans, but the smell is subtle. Never seems like a delicious color or smell. "Simmer until the shape is completely gone," he said. Normally, I just simmered the beans, and they don't disappear enough to simmer, but there's an alchemy kettle. It's not normal. If you keep mixing with guts for a while, the liquid that was red and cloudy gradually changes to a clear color, and the shape of the beans disappears. "When it all disappears, transfer it to a culture vessel and dilute it with well water" The culture container is a cylindrical glass container, about cm long and horizontal. In it was filled a diluted and peachy liquid. "And then I'm gonna put in this, my hair and three hairs, all the time" If you drop it in paralysis, your hair will instantly dissolve away from shwagging. It's obviously a liquid that looks dangerous, isn't it, this? Of course, I'm handling it with gloves on, but I'm a little scared. "Cover tight so you don't spill, and you can even magic at the end of the day! Me putting my hand on the side of the container and pouring in the remaining magic. According to Alchemy Daiichi, if you pour a lot of magic into it at this time, you will be able to raise a quality alchemy creature (Homunculus). I was consuming magic during work as well, so this is an occasion where I should utilize my much wasted magic, although not complete! If you pour gum and magic into it, the liquid will begin to emit light. "Eh, we should pour it to the upper limit of this brightness of light, right? Although it would be nice to have more, it seems that the ability to accept the magic poured depends on the material used, and its limits can be judged by the brightness of light. In other words, if you pour magic into it and the luminosity stops increasing, that's the limit. More than that, a waste of magic. - What is it? Something's getting brighter and brighter. Are you sure you're okay with this?

Epilogue About a week after Yoku Bahr left the village. Having settled down after everything, I was slowly enjoying my afternoon tea with Lorea and the others. It was in there with the stuff my master sent me, with Maria's handmade tea treats. Very delicious treats not available around here are also very popular with Lorea and the others. But you can be a little shy, right? Because it is rarely edible. "Now you can finally relax." "Right ~. But, Mr. Sarasa" "Yes?" "Even before that merchant came, he was pretty bummed, wasn't he? It wasn't long before Hell Flame Grizzly came out of the woods or Sarasa." "... you can't deny it. I wish I could alchemy." When I sigh, Mr. Iris throws another cup of tea sweets into his mouth, pacling and pointing out with a grin. "It was the manager who decided to face that merchant, wasn't it? "'Cause we're all gonna put our hands up against each other." "Sure, but... you don't have any regrets, do you? "You didn't. In total, it's more profitable." "Big... the manager hasn't made a lot of money on this one? You don't use fangs the way you told that merchant, do you? Honest Lorea rounds her eyes to Kate, who says with a slight deliberate grin. "Oh, was that a lie? "I'm not lying. Because there are definitely ways to process it into magic crystal stones." However, it is very inefficient. From the fangs of ice tooth bats that specialize in cooling, the best advantage of this is that they remove the "cooling” part and turn it into a generic Demonic crystal stone, so to speak, something like "melt ice and make water because you need water”. We need the cost to melt it, and if we use this demonic crystal stone to make the smelter Artifact, like a cooling hat, multiplier don. It is an outrageous waste. So it's basic to use ice tooth bat fangs as they are. The problem is that if I don't have that much use, I don't have a seller, but this time I pushed a good part of it on my master. The King's capital, far from here, can be quite a few. That's why I hitched a ride to send ice tooth bat fangs, and I also sent most of the ice tooth bat fruit. And after a while it was sent back a large quantity of alcohol and gold coins, besides Maria's treats. The drinkers have already brought it home with great joy. "I mean, you made a lot of money, didn't you? "I won't deny it" Ice Tooth Bat Scatter, Priceless. Sale of fangs, money jarring with some increase in the market. Tooth buyout, overwhelmingly cheap to buy and beat. Sell the fangs you bought and beat, discount them by a few percent over the market and push them against your master. Clarified, a pile of gold coins I'd never seen before. "Er, what do you do, that money" "I'm an alchemist, so I'm planning on buying a lot of materials, but most of them are on loan." "Lending?" "One to Mr. Dillall. Look, Mr. Dillall's house, you started building more." "Right...... hmm? Is that the manager?" "Yes, this time we've asked the collectors to help us, so it's a partial reduction" I pay my daily allowances and fees properly to those who cooperated directly with me, so my contribution in other respects, that's the expansion of the Inn. There seemed to be a good number of collectors who were in trouble because the inn room was full and they couldn't even enter the dining room, so they invested to get rid of it. The truth is, I thought I'd give you the money to build it, and Mr. Dillall said, 'Exactly. I can't take that!' So I solidified, loans. I decided to lend it without interest and have it repaid one by one with the profits that came out of the newly built building. "Others are the alchemists who were the victims of Yorke." Exactly because I'm hard to move directly, I co-offered money with Mr. Leonora, who made a profit on this one as well as I did, and I bought and beat the claims Yorke has. I guess he didn't want to die either. With the time limit looming, he slammed quite a bit on the rows and bought out all his claims... Apparently. I don't know because I'm not present, but Mr Leonora and Mr Filione, who came back from the negotiations, had a very good smile on their face. As a result, he survived safely... what do you think? Mr. Leonora said, "Maybe a little short." "Really? So there's not that much money in this store anymore, is there? I'm relieved. I thought the floor would fall out." As for Lorea, it seemed more important that she "spent the money," exhaling deeply with a relief look on her face. "Lorea, don't exaggerate -" "I'm not exaggerating! Me, I was trying to stay away from the room where the money was! Lorea almost collapsed, didn't she? ... What happened when I saw when I had the most money? "The manager is sweet. Those people are pathetic, but it's not like the manager's throwing personal property." "Uh, because you were a new alchemist. I don't think of it as" every other person. " It was surprising that there were more people than expected. "But the“ newcomers ”are all older than the manager, right? "Well, that's right. You're older than Mr. Kate. Because we have a store." I set up a shop as soon as I left school. Normally, I train in other stores for a few years, save money, and then set up a store. "But I didn't lose anything, did I? Because now it's with those alchemists, me and Mr. Leonora. Huuuuuuuuuu..." "Ah, another bad grin..." "It's okay, Lorea. 'Cause that wasn't such a bad idea." "Right, you're the manager." To Lorea's words, Mr. Iris and Mr. Kate shrug their shoulders with a bitter smile. "Well, that's not true, is it? I'm going to pay my debts properly, and in some cases, I'm going to ask a lot of questions that I can't." "Really? How much interest do you plan to have? "... so far, I haven't thought about it" I don't have any money, Peppy, and I'm telling you, you can't take it, can you? So far, I've been struggling. "In the first place, do we need the immature alchemist in that part of the world to hear the impossibility? The manager. You'd have a master in trouble, wouldn't you? "... yes" I'm trying not to beat that alchemist in the first place. Me. "Good. I knew you were Mr. Sarasa." I said nothing more to Lorea's smile and hid the teacup in her face.

Even so, it's not that hard. First of all, based on the criterion of "opening a store”, “making a product” precedes that. Because there's nothing I can do without selling it. The fence and the garden, too? If it doesn't look good, customers won't come. Finally, you can use the garden herbs to make the product, right? Improvements to the rest of the wells, baths and magic stoves are independent, so you can turn them when you have time. "If so, is it a fence at first? I can make products even after sundown." Try to kick the fence in front of the house gently. Poko, Beki. ... Yeah, I fell down lightly. This is a complete rebuild. It's a simple fence that just hit the pile and handed Yokogi over, so I was wondering if it's enough to ask the carpenter? Should we do this here ourselves, even to save money? Alchemists can do some woodworking because of the smelter artifact making, right? Though, I don't have carpentry tools. Because I used an internship room at school and rented shop tools at my master's place. That's why I came. I'm a grocery store. "Hello ~" "Oh, Mr. Sarasa, I'm sorry about yesterday! Go home and ask for the price, I..." "Uh, sorry about this one, huh? I was going to thank you, but it seemed a little expensive to give you easily. On the other hand, I got cloth and cotton." When I looked in my face, I responded to Mr. Lorea, who came as if in a panic, waving my hands flat. "No! Make sure you get it! Father, even that one said it wouldn't match. If you don't give me that much, it's hard for us to use that cloth." Uh, yeah, maybe there's a part of that. Especially if we are going to sell that cloth in the store in the future, it is not very good for both sides that they helped us for half a day. "Well, thank you." "Absolutely. - By the way, today? "Do you keep carpentry tools or something? I want the whole thing." "Ah, yes. If you want to use something in a normal home. You should ask Mr. Zizd for the good stuff directly though. Mr. Sarasa, are you going to do something? "Thought I'd fix the fence a little bit." "What? Yourself, is it? Aren't you going to ask Grandpa Geberg? Mr. Lorea tells you as surprised, but so surprised? It's as easy as building a fence, isn't it? "Mm-hmm. I don't know if I can do that." "Yeah, it's pretty hard to work as a carpenter, huh? Mr. Sarasa, have you done this before? "Somewhat? I have never made anything very large or complex, but I also learn fine woodworking at school because it is sometimes necessary to make the smelter Artifact. Even before that, in the orphanage, it was fundamental that we do something ourselves, so if a building or building broke down, we did what we could fix ourselves. I worked hard to help with these unexpected things in relation to getting exempt from the usual help. So I also know some difficulty in carpentry work. It's pretty hard just to cut the board straight, isn't it? It's just a little bent in the saw "Nokiri," and when I'm done cutting it, it gets pretty diagonal. However, I thought I could do the house fence myself because it just punches the pile and gives me an elongated plate there... "Um, for once, why don't you talk to Grandpa Geberg? I'm gonna bluff, but you're kind, so I think you can get some advice, too, right? "Right. I also have to ask for repairs to the store... I just need the carpentry tools themselves, so I'll buy them." "Yes, Maido." The carpentry tools I received from Mr. Lorea were heavier than I thought, so I went to Mr. Geberg's after I had first returned to put them at home. It's hard to get in because it's a seemingly normal private house compared to a grocery store, but I never speak up. "Sorry." Was your voice a little low? I thought, after a moment, Mr. Geberg came out of the back. "Hmm? What is it, lady? What can I do for you? "Actually, I need to talk to you...... I'm trying to fix the fence around the house, can you split the wood? Or will it be difficult to do it yourself? "Miss, is that it? That's what I said. Oh, you've done some things, haven't you? I'll sell it to you. Well... well, we'll see what happens next. - Look, let's go! "Yes, sir" Arrive at home after Mr. Geberg, a walking man who makes you feel no age at all. The grassy fence is shown as' This is it '. "Hmm, this fence? Quite a scratch. Don't move. If you don't, you better rebuild it all, lady, but are you going to do it all by yourself? That's what I'm saying. I'm pointing around the house, Mr. Geberg. Speaking of which, there's a pretty big backyard, and there's dozens of meters at a distance... Maybe a little rough? "... hey, is that a lot? "A little bit? Well, fine. I don't know how much arm your lady has, but how long does it take you to do it alone? For that matter, wouldn't you make more money working as an alchemist? "... that too, right," On second thought, it would probably be better to leave the repair of the fence to manpower and open a store quickly to sell alchemy items, perhaps making money. From the time I was an orphanage to the time I was a student, it was in the spirit of not spending money anyway, all I could do was do it myself, so I thought about saying I'd fix it myself first, but on second thought, I'm another serving alchemist. Everybody's jealous, high-paying alchemist. That's me! Me, good luck! Life, winners! ... No, no, calm down. That's exactly what I'm saying, but hiring people out of specialty is also something you'll need in the future, isn't it? Can you focus more on alchemy? "Okay! So, can you do me a favor? And finally, that sign repair and wall repair! When I pointed to Bisilli's fallen sign, Mr. Geberg glanced at you too and nodded as he was convinced. "Oh, you sure look like you need that one too. Is the fence as good as it is now? "Um, that's fine in front of the store, but because of the sides and the back, could you make it" Itabei ", which is about two meters long? "I don't mind that, why not? The fence's gonna be high for that, right? "No, you know, I'm a girl, too, so I don't really see laundry or anything, right? "Ha! I don't know who cares about that in this country. First of all, I'd stay away from my neighbor's house. - Well, if it's a customer order, I'll make it! Yeah, well, I do think you don't see much of it, even if you dry your laundry in the backyard. The outlook itself is poor due to the fact that it is quite far from the nearest Mr. Elles' house, and the trees are bush around and the woods looming just down the back. Still, I figured, moody, hey. In Wangdu, the room was dry, but as long as the walls were here, it would be easy to dry. And then sometimes I want to make sure that the fields in the backyard are not vandalized into small animals or anything. Conversely, in front of the store, it remains an easy fence for customers to enter. The hope around it was also conveyed together, and as a result of the meeting, stone walls were built up to about knees to the back and midway between the sides, on which the plate walls and other places were decided on the configuration of a fence with an emphasis on openness. In addition, a simple gate was made in the side passage leading to the backyard to allow access to be restricted, and a door was also attached to the slab wall of the backyard to ensure convenience. I don't know much about signs and walls, so I'll take care of everything. I'll take care of the other details. Mr. Geberg would make it look good! When I told him that, Mr. Geberg snorted, "Hmm," and left to say, "I'll start construction tomorrow," he said. "That... must have lit up, yeah. I'm not offended...... right? I'm curious... I don't have time for this right now. Work is fast enough to create a bed in one day, Mr. Geberg, so construction is really going to start tomorrow. If that happens, the change "Herbs" around the fence will be in vain! "We need to collect it! Bring the basket from the house and even pull out the herbs growing along the fence. "Whoa, this is a precious one! I don't have the body to pick it, so I dig up every root to avoid it. Let's plant it back later. "You can leave the grass alone." If you're going to build a stone wall, you should be dug back somewhat. I don't even have to bother pulling it out. Keep going around. Inside the fence, the area that becomes the garden drains the grass while recovering the herbs. Perform such tasks even into the evening while also using bad physical enhancements. I took a break on the way only during lunch and rehydration. I was tired of hiji-kun, but it was worth it, and the garden, which was all-you-can-see, had recovered to the level it could see. "No, honestly, me, aren't you trying too hard? I still have a product to make. Regardless of the herbs collected today, it is time to use the herbs collected on the first day or they will become less effective. For once, I have a simple preservation process, so I think I can handle it until tomorrow, but I have something I picked up tomorrow and today. "It was just a delightful miscalculation that there were so many precious herbs! Normally, a lot of expensive herbs were grown. Of course, it's probably because the previous owner planted it, but it's amazing that it stayed intact. Because it's not worth the usual herbs, I naturally recovered them all and planted them back in a well-plowed field. That's good, the word free! "But now, take a break. Exactly tired..." When I entered the house and wiped my body gently, I turned to the dining room for a warm meal. ◇ ◇ ◇ The next day, when I woke up a little later than usual, there was some noise in front of the house. "Uh-huh? What was that? It was pretty late last night, so I can't get my head straight. It was only in the beginning that we planned to cut up the smelting drug Potion. That started making my plans crazy around running out of medicine bottles along the way. If we don't have a vial, we're gonna have to make it, right? You have to put a fire in the glass furnace to make it, right? When that happens, no more. Once the glass is melted, it's a lot of trouble if you don't use it. So, even make medicine bottles. Pour the smelting drug Potion from the cold end and seal. Repeat that, by the time I eventually ran out of all the glass, it was already starting to whiten outside. Thanks to this, I was able to make a lot of products... "Uh huh?" I wake myself up and look out the window...... full of guys. ... Oh, speaking of which, I thought you said you were going to start building fences today. That's right, Mr. Geberg, faster than I thought. Yesterday today, and starting in the morning or something...... Materials are already starting to pile up in front of the house. Greeting, you have to, I knew it. When I got up whipped to my tired body, I got dressed and went outside. "Good morning, Mr. Geberg" "Whoa, good morning, lady. The garden, it's beautiful, isn't it? What Mr. Geberg shows is our garden where we worked hard yesterday to change classes from a "desolate garden” to a "slightly neglected garden”. I've just drained the grass yet, so it's just far from a “well-maintained garden," but I'm sure it's gotten a lot better. "Yeah, well, I tried pretty hard" "Is that why you're tired? "Do you understand? That's one of the reasons." I was going to get dressed, but to the extent that I can see and understand it, they're tired on the table. One way or the other, it's harder not to sleep. "So, uh, uh, these guys...? "These are village men. I call it when it comes to large-scale work. I don't think it's a problem, but if someone calls me back, tell me. guts, I'll beat you back." A big hammer on Mr. Geberg's right hand to say so. I'm shaking it lightly, boom. So, instead of “beating back" your guts, I guess it's "beating up”? It's probably not my fault that some people blued their faces on Mr. Geberg's words. "Good morning, gentlemen. I'm Sarasa, the alchemist who moved in the other day. Best regards," Those were the ones who hadn't greeted me yet, so let's take this opportunity to carefully bow our heads. When I say that, gentlemen, he greeted me soothingly and verbally... sorry, I don't think I can remember his name. "You don't have to forget about these guys. If you're going to cook yourself anyway, you'll remember." You perceived my perplexity like that, Mr. Geberg followed me. Apparently, the people here are temporarily employed people who usually farm. If vegetables or the like are needed for this reason, then we will face each other again. I mean, the other day, when you asked Elles to show you the village, you were the ones who left it behind. Yeah, let's try and remember. "So, can we start work already? "Yes, please. Ah, there are herbs planted in the backyard fields, so just be careful there." Because I dug up precious herbs and transplanted them, it would be quite sad if they even stepped on them. "Whoa, I'm a pro, these guys are farmers, I know. Come on, you guys, do as you're told! "" "Whoa! Responding to Mr. Geberg's decree with a powerful voice, the men moved out. The worn out fence is removed as you see it. Mr. Geberg is checking the walls and signs of the house, so do we split them up and proceed with the work? "Um, do I have something to do? "Oh? Trouble. If you're not going to tell me, I don't have any business." "Really? I'll take care of it." I've already left it to Mr. Geberg. I don't mean to interrupt you by saying this while you're working, and most importantly, I'm sleepy. I honestly went home and enjoyed sleeping twice for some time now. ◇ ◇ ◇ The next time I woke up was at a time when the sun was completely rising and close to noon. Once again I woke up to it and looked out the window, the simple fence in front of the house had already been raised. "Wow, just working fast... the sides... yeah, just not yet, right?" Peek through the window on the side, and that side is just in the middle of a pile of stone walls. If it was done this way, it would be just as unusual. "Lunch is... appropriate and good" It was also a hassle to go to eat, so I had breakfast and lunch with some dried meat I bought away, and did some light gymnastics to unwind my body. "Ok!" When I left the house and turned to my back, Ishigaki was already able to do about half of the whole thing. "Good day, Mr. Geberg. It's going well." "Whoa, lady. Yeah, I'll be there by the end of the day, putting up a plate tomorrow morning, building a portal and getting it done." "It's early. It helps." "I fixed the wall too, but wait a few days for the sign" "- Oh, it's true, it's fixed. And the sign." When Mr. Geberg told me to look at the house, a lacquer crack that had occurred in several places had been painted back beautifully. "Well, thank you." "Leave it to me! Away from Mr. Geberg, who gave me a strong undertaking, I look around. There seems to be nothing I can do to help with the fence, so should I make an effort to change the front yard to a "well-maintained garden”? Um, the herbs are gone, so let's prune the grass properly and even make it in the tree pruning and flower beds. My shop, it's cute anyway, isn't it? If you plant a beautiful herb of flowers, it's two birds a stone. Nevertheless, the type that uses flowers and leaves is not suitable for planting in flower beds, so you have to be the type that uses roots and seeds after the flowers are finished. "Let's start with the tree pruning" Cut off parts that are appropriately overstretched...... magically. I bought the saw "Mushroom," but for me not tall, pruning Takagi is a little hard. Magic doesn't do the details, but you don't have to climb a tree or prepare a stepping stone. After cutting them off, blow the branches that are caught in the wind and keep them all together in the corner of the garden. The grass figured it out magically. The wide area is zackled and pruned, just on the side of the house or fence, carefully by hand. Fine magic control that no ordinary magician can do is easy for an alchemist! "Ha-ha-ha, it's convenient, magic." My gorgeous (?) I go ahead with the work with the people who round their eyes with magic. Well, whether it's gorgeous or not, there are certainly a limited number of people who can, because this kind of usage will require a lot of control. Otherwise, the number of alchemists would have increased more. "The flower beds... are good beside the approach and between the walls of the house? Once in position, we dig back the crisps and dirt, and around them we make borders with the marutai. This whole thing has been properly cut out of the woods behind the house, and for once, I checked with Mr. Geberg to get the ink that it is not a problem to cut out the woods in this area. When I came back in charge of Marutai, the men gave me a startling glance, because this is strengthening my body, right? I don't dare make any claims, but I'm pretty weak with vegetables, so I... "All right, I got it!" Cut plants and beautifully mowed grass, wild - no, a flowerbed with a rustic feel. Can I say this is a well-maintained garden now? And then... "Flower beds, what shall we plant...? Among the materials in hand, the flowers think of beautiful herbs. All the herbs are exotic and beautiful, but the only thing the seed has at hand is what makes the seed itself an alchemical material. What I have is alchemy material until I get tired of it. The only medicinal herbs that use leaves are leaves, and the roots that use roots are dry roots, so they don't bud where they are planted. "It's a good time, so most things should be fine..." Fortunately, it's spring now. Not a bad time to sow. Finally, if you're a herb that uses seeds, you can plant them in a flower bed until the flowers are finished, so it's not bad for ornamental use. If you use leaves or flowers, you will get on the way, so it is ruined as a flowerbed. I thought for a while and planted a small, white cute flowering herb beside the approach and a slightly larger flowering herb of blue and purple in front of the house. "This one stretches out the shovel, so we'll have to get the struts ready by the time it sprouts." Both are strong herbs, so I don't think it means they won't bud. I laughed alone, dreaming of my own shop that was open surrounded by flowers.

"Ho, is this the cave? That's pretty big." With the guidance of Mr. Andre and his men, we were not lost, but reached the northern cave. He looks up at the entrance to the cave, about meters wide and about 10 meters high, and raises a voice that Mr. Iris was impressed with. "You're pretty close. This makes it easy to come... but the question is, can you hunt properly?" "It's not strong, so it's okay. I don't know if they can attack me at the same time, because they usually don't.... normally." "Normally? "If it's somewhat about hunting, I'll give priority to the escape, for example, by blocking the entrance to the cave and exterminating it, or something like that, and it seems to be coming crazily over there too. In the past, some people have frozen their whole bodies to death." Because it is a vermin for an orchard, there have naturally been instances of attempts to annihilate it. With enough strength, there's no problem, but when you try to deal with it with halfway personnel, accidents like that can happen. So I cautioned him for once, and Andre and the others nodded, as strange as a nose whispered. "Oh... you can't be alarmed." "You can't always be alarmed during sampling operations. Naturally." "It's okay, this time. Unless you suddenly throw in even extensive magic. There's no one to use it." "Dear Store Manager, if you can use such magic, you are using it during the raid ahead" "Then it's okay. So shall we go? First," Wind Wall "Air Wall" " Use supercritical magic to cover everyone and step inside the cave. "Ugh, it stinks! "Oh, yeah, this is pretty..." It was Mr. Iris and Mr. Kate who immediately raised their voices. Well, it stinks, doesn't it? The floor, it's all there. "Mr. Andre and the others... well, they're collectors, so as arr" "Hey, what the fuck is that?!?" Mr. Kate sarallies through Mr. Andre's protests and peeks into my face worryingly. "Is the manager okay? "I'm pretty sure it stinks, but there are some pretty stinky things in the alchemy material. That's the kind of thing that loses consciousness if you don't deal with it somehow. Now, by the way, I'm using medicine to reduce the odor." "Z, cheat! Lord Store Manager, give it to me too! "It's a bit of a good price, okay? "Ugh! "Shit, I owe you..." "It's a joke. Only this time, you can use it. Yes, sniff this" I open the lid of the vial I took away and give it to Mr. Iris and the others. The two people, who brought their noses closer to the vial and inhaled their breath, immediately opened their eyes to see if they felt the effect. "It doesn't stink!... nothing, but it got so much better! "Yep. Not at all." "More than a certain odor is the potion, an smelling drug that cuts it. Because it's dangerous if you completely ruin your sense of smell." Even when doing alchemy, the smell is important. It's not stupid to smell when you change the heating time due to smell, or when you notice danger due to burning smell. This "cut well" part is the part of the smelting drug Potion. That's why it's expensive. "We can't just offer it for free every time, so we'll take care of what we do. Increase your debt or be patient." "Mmmm... don't worry" There's nothing unbearable about it. "Do you also use Mr. Andre and the others? "No, we're good" "It's a bearable level. Some of the gatherers said, 'Since when have you not washed your body!' Cause some of them do." "That's just how far we can go!?... at least not to the collectors of this village" What, are you outside of this village...? Such a gatherer, I might not want you to come to the store. - If you're serious about this level of people, I wouldn't quit making it off-limits, either, I would. Lorea, who has the store number, is too pathetic. "By the way, if you cut off this floor and bring it back, it's going to be good fertilizer." "Oh, really? Sarasa bought it for me." "Ha, I won't. It's not an alchemy material, it's already fertilizer. If you want to sell it, you'll be dealing with the farmers, but whether the farmers in this village will buy it..." I may have a little money right now, but I don't usually. It would be hard to give money and buy fertilizer. Besides, fertilizers are not effective immediately after use. Regardless of the collectors who have stayed in this village for a long time and are somewhat trusted, Andre and the others, whether or not to buy fertilizer to be spread over important fields from collectors who do not know their characteristics. Given the risk of adverse effects, you probably won't buy it? "Right. Then I'll do it for free to someone I know..." "Too much is counterproductive, so be careful. - More importantly, it's fate. Look up there." "Up...... whoops! Mr. Iris, caught by me pointing and looking up honestly, raises his voice. Andre and the others, too, are opening their mouths to surprise. "This guy... that's a lot..." The one sticking to the ceiling was the ice tooth bat. That, too, is so surprising that you can't see the actual ceiling. I can't seem to count how many there are. "Ko, from this, are you looking for individuals over the age of five? Shouldn't you be able to do that, Mr. Store Manager? "Oh, there seems to be no way to kill him indiscriminately." "No. It's a little difficult, but it's not impossible to tell your age even in this condition. For example... that's it." With that said, I use magic to attack a single ice tooth bat. Potentially picked up the ice tooth bats that fell to the ground, and showed them to Mr. Andre, but they just twist their necks. "... no, I attacked you based on what, Sarasa" "Oh, we have no idea." "That's their amount of magic. Aim for ice tooth bats with more than a certain amount of magic." "No, because I can't! We can't sense that! To me, who answered plainly, Mr. Gill vehemently disputed, and the others nodded again and again with Unh-unh. "Yes, I know. I'm not asking you to discern it this way. First of all, you're body length. It's bigger than the rest, you know? I hang with my ice tooth bat leg and show its length. Andre and the others compare that ice tooth bat to the ice tooth bat stuck on the ceiling over and over again. But... you know what I mean? "... if you ask me, it looks a little small" "No, it makes little difference? I don't understand, do I? "You can't tell from this distance..." My hunted ice tooth bat is roughly 20cm less from toe to toe of head. It sticks to the ceiling from about 10 cm with small objects. Not many individuals are bigger than this. Anyway, what do you know about Mr. Kate and Mr. Gill? Mr. Kate has a bow in the main, so is he sharp in observation? "Well, let's take action on the appearance. The next step is to tell by fangs." Pull open the mouth of the ice tooth bat and show its fangs. Two fangs about two centimeters. It just comes under the name “Ice Fang," which, given the size of your body, is pretty big. "Color first. The deeper the blue, the older it is." "Ho, that's kind of a beautiful color..." "This is still thin, but beyond the age of ten, it will turn blue and blue" Konji "color, so it's even prettier." Keep it away from Mr. Iris, who raises his voice like he was impressed and tries to touch his fangs, and keep the words going. "Next, cooling capacity. It's well worth it if you touch it with your bare hands and get cold enough not to be touching it right away" "Ugh." Keep the ice tooth bat away from Mr. Iris, who honestly took off his gloves and tried to touch his fangs, again. To me like that, Mr. Iris turns a dissatisfied face, but I shake my head no good. "I can tell by stabbing something in my fangs. Well, if you're over five, people's fingers are about to freeze in seconds. Would you like to try, Mr. Iris? "Yes, no, fine! Mr. Iris shakes his head with a blurb and wears the gloves back like he panicked. Yeah. It's dangerous to get your hands on it during the explanation, isn't it? Even in alchemy classes, they never come close during experiments. Until I got permission, it was the iron rule not to touch it. "At the end of the day, here, that's a way to see the root of your fangs. Can you see there's something like a muscle? Mr. Iris peeks in horror as Andre and the others look intrigued at the place I have shown them. "... hey, you don't look dark" "Oh, right." The Light "" I have trouble making too much bright and ice tooth bats noise, so I light a slight light. Did that make it easier for you to see, Andre and the others nod 'Hmm'? "Sure, you have muscle. How old is this number? "That's right. There are five of these, so you're six." "I see. You can tell this from me, too. But if you don't shoot him, you don't know... Kate, can you handle it? "I, too, can tell with certainty that this slight difference..." Iris asks, and Kate twists her neck with a sinister look. "Gil, how about you? "I'm not sure either. In the first place, how do we kill them? Kate would have a bow." "Right. Sarasa, is there any way? "No, shouldn't I normally even use a net? Wormless. When you catch a feather worm, you use it, right? "... oh, right. If you put on a slightly longer pattern and make the net a little sturdy, is that all you need?" Ice tooth bats have almost no attack power other than fangs. If you tangle it with a net, you can't do anything. Clarify, if you don't even deal with it the wrong way, you're a very lame prey. That's as much as I want to collect a ton of it myself and go home - no, I plan to collect it and go home. "Later, if you fold these two fangs and bring them back, you're done. Carefully hold it so you don't stab it in your finger, knock it inside, and it'll break easily." With that said, Baki, Baki and I broke our fangs, threw them into the leather bag we brought, and the body grabbed our legs and poised outside the cave. The corpse of the ice tooth bat that flew away with the shpawn disappears into the midst of the trees. "If you have any remaining body, discard it because it has little use. but if possible, you should throw it out of the cave. If you rot here, you'll have trouble the next time you come." "Ooh..." "And one more thing. In these caves, the ice tooth bat in the back is older." "... hmm? So if you hunt in the deepest part, don't you need to worry about your age? "There was an ice tooth bat of this age at the entrance, and it must be now." "Now... Oh, you know what? You mean if you hunt the back, the younger ones come in the back in turn? I nod again, too, to Mr. Andre, who gave a little thought and nodded as I was convinced. "That's right. So it's no use being able to tell." "Really? Even so, I don't think I can..." "Good luck there, only" "Right. Whoa, Gil, come on, man. "Me?!? Well, I'll make an effort... but when an individual under five gets to live in the back, isn't it smart to pull it up, this" "I'll take care of that area. Honestly, it's more habitat than I expected, so even if they hunt it all down, they can't buy it." Probably because there was no one to hunt. This number at the entrance. The total number of ice tooth bats living in this cave is unimaginable. If you do anything to hunt this down, the market for ice tooth bat fangs in this country will go down in itself, right? "Ma, let's just move on back. Because I can't help talking about it here. Mr. Andre, do you know the depth of this cave? "Um, I'm sorry. It's the first time we've actually been in there. I think our senior Mr. Drake would have known, because he's already retired." "Is it? Well, you can tell if you go. Proceed with caution."

This was before Lorea started working at Sarasa's shop. At that time, Sarasa was turning the shop by herself, so she had a busy day. Production of smelting medicine (potions) and smelting tools (artifacts) during the day and after the store closes. Plus daily cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation. Cleaning is relatively easy with the effect of “stamping”, but you have to do your own laundry, and so does eating. When I went to Dilal, I could eat quite a lot of meals, but Salasa who spared no time for it often finished meals with proper preserved food. So, when it comes to having no time at all, that's never the case. After all, only collectors visit Sarasa's shops today. The usual pattern is to stop in the morning before work to replenish the alchemy (potion), etc., and bring in the work results after noon and in the evening. Inevitably, other times are very free. However, it is difficult not to be able to close the store. Enjoying tea time and chatting with Lorea, who came to play in anticipation of such a time, was the daily routine of Sarasa these days. Also today, Lorea was a little reluctant and let her face peer through the entrance of the store. "Hello Sarasa, if it's your time..." "Welcome, Lorea. I'm free as usual. Come in, come in." As Sarasa gestured from the counter, Lorea gladly entered the store and sat down on the chair beside the counter, which was in its most recent position. I can make tea right now, just a minute. “Thank you so much. Compared to drinking from us, it's very delicious, isn't it, Sarasa-san's tea?" Well, then, it's worth a little research. While saying that, Sarasa takes out the suya tea that is commonly consumed in this village. However, it is a tea leaf that Sarasa has alchemically added to the leaves she has picked herself. It removes the odor of freshness and brings out the depth and taste. Although it is not comparable to the fine tea leaves sold in large towns, it is definitely at the top of the list of teas consumed in this village. And to match that tea, this is also a dried fruit prepared by Sarasa. Purchased in South Strag, it is a rare luxury in the village, with just a little sugar added. Thalassa is a little poor, but he's a little excited about the tea treats he offers Lorea to enjoy with his only friend in the village. "Come on, don't hesitate to eat sweets." Yes, I'll take it. Having a sip of tea, Lorea smiles as she reaches for the dried fruit. Seeing that, Sarasa smiles again. I have room to relax with friends of my age. Though I was happy about that, I was a little worried about Sarasa. "... hey, Lorea, can I ask you a question?" "Oh, yes. Ask me anything." Lorea leaned her head and nodded. Sarasa was slightly lost and opened her mouth. "Um... you come to visit me quite often, but is it okay to help me with my work at home? As for me, I'm glad you're here." I'll miss Lorea when she doesn't come to play with it. However, if she came without doing what she had to do, it would not be for Lorea's own benefit, and it would also interfere with her future relationship with her neighbors. She was a little excited and pointed out that it was Sarasa, but Lorea smiled bitterly for a moment. "Ah, is that it?" Actually, I'm pretty busy right now. " Is that so? “Yes, I usually work as a storekeeper while my parents are shopping, but thanks to Sarasa's arrival, the number has decreased.” Until now, Lorea's parents had quite often left the shop because they had the job of buying alchemy (potions) for collectors, buying some materials from collectors that did not require much preservation, and selling them to South Strag. However, when the alchemist Sarasa opened the shop, they became unnecessary, and the business content was limited to the ordinary grocery store. As a result, the number of purchases decreases drastically, and Lorea also reduces the number of store numbers. "It's a little complicated considering that the same generation of children work every day..." If you're around Lorea's age, you're at the stage of helping her with her family business, remembering her job, and preparing her to take over the house in the future, and she'll be the same if she's the same. However, as far as the shop number in the village is concerned, Lorea is still a little young to take her to other towns for purchasing. However, she does not usually need manpower for the work of the village grocery store. In other words, it's inevitable that Lorea will be free with her parents. I will go to other houses to help if asked, but unless someone in my family gets sick or is short-handed during the farming season, there is usually only a job that can be paid for by the people in the house, and Lorea is not called. "That's why I have to take care of the vegetable garden a little bit right now... I'm in trouble." "But when you don't have parents, you're a shopkeeper, right?" I don't think that's a problem. "If you say so, your heart will be lightened..." But thanks to the time, I'm glad to hear from Sarasa about the capital. ” "Hahaha, am I glad I have someone to talk to too? Hey, that's a corner. Can you tell me about Lorea? About this village and the grocery store." When Sarasa said, "It's boring for me to talk about the capital," Lorea leaned her head in a bit of trouble. "Hmm, but incidents don't happen like that in the village, and the grocery store doesn't replace the store number, right?" "The customers are just getting to know each other..." Ah, but-- " "What? Something interesting?" Seeing Lorea slightly dumbfounded, Sarasa stepped forward with interest. "It's funny... there's nothing interesting about it." Somewhat strange, isn't it? ” Wonder? "Yes. That was... not long before Sarasa came to this village, so the end of winter... No, early spring." An unusual person visited the store. ” Lorea put her index finger in her mouth as if digging up a memory of the time, and began to speak with a slight look up. ◇◇◇ It was a bit chilly that day, even if it should be said that it was back to cold. The doors of grocery stores, which were often left open on good days, are also firmly closed to prevent the wind from entering. When Lorea sat down in her chair during the idle period when there were few customers originally, "I can't expect today," looking out, the clouds became suspicious and the outside became dim. And it starts to rain hard. The view from the outside suddenly got worse with the rustling sound. With that in mind, Lorea suddenly opened the door of the store and one customer came in. "Hey, welcome..." Although he greeted her half-reflexively, Lorea's heart bounced when she saw the person. His height is slightly higher. A black robe that completely covers your body as if it hides your identity. Although the faces cannot be confirmed by the hood covered in the depths of the eyes, all the villagers know each other, and the collectors staying in the village have hardly changed lately. From Lorea, who is roughly aware of it, it is easy to spot that the person who came in is not an acquaintance. Lorea reached out to Bell, who was told by her parents to "ring when something happened," but the situation was not good. Usually, if you ring the bell, an adult in the neighborhood will rush in. But now it's raining heavily outside. No matter how hard Lorea tries to swing the bell, can she still hear the sound? Lorea was thrilled and watched the customer's movements. A customer who knows or does not know Lorea's vigilance and walks slowly around the store. With this calm movement, Lorea's heartbeat, busy rushing the early bell, eventually returned to normal, and she had plenty of time to think. ”-And yet, to change the hunting ground, a collector came to see me in advance?” If you look at it with that anticipation, you can understand the behavior of observing the store rather than taking anything, and checking what kind of products are there. The robe that seemed suspicious was not so strange considering the sudden heavy rain, and Lorea gently let go of the bell she was holding under the counter. That's about a few minutes. The customer called out to Lorea to see if she was satisfied in the store, which was not very spacious. "I'm sorry, I just wanted to ask... do you also deal in alchemy (potion) here?" The customer pointed to a bottle of alchemy (potion) that was placed behind the counter because it was a luxury product. Lorea looked back, confirmed it, and nodded. "Yes, for a while. I can't always buy them and they have expiration dates, so it's almost a deficit." It's a service to the people in the village and the collectors. " "After all, is that the case?" ― ― Can I ask you something else about the village? "Yes, I don't mind." What's going on? " "Ah, that's right. It's a bit abstract, but... is it an easy village to live in?" Lorea often thought and answered the words that seemed a little lost about what to ask. "... it's a good village if you say it as a resident. There are also many good collectors who are permanent residents. However, it's a different question of earning money as a Gatherer. There is no alchemist, so it is difficult to sell the material. I can buy some, but it's an ordinary grocery store-" As for Lorea at the grocery store, I want more collectors to become customers, but there's no point in telling falsehoods. Lorea talks about her village honestly and as fairly as she can. The customer was listening to Lorea's words while nodding, but when I thanked her as if she was satisfied, she didn't buy any products, so she left the store. And, well, that's what happened. "Huh, that kind of customer."... hm? But what's so strange about that? The way I talked about it was a bit...... but " It was Sarasa who asked if it was somehow a scary story, but as a result, a customer who came to the store on a rainy day just came back and asked the story. Any element that suddenly rains down, or has a suspicious appearance, or is slightly disturbing, is not even more strange. "No, that's the way it is. The figure of this person has been verified all over the village... but you haven't stayed at the inn, have you? Of course, I never stayed at someone's house in the village. The last sighting in the evening suddenly disappeared." "Um... you mean you went on a day trip?" “Of course, that's possible. But do you bother to leave the village in the evening? And in the rain of the dirt." "... if it's normal, I'll stay overnight and then go home." "Yes, even if you don't have enough money, this is the village." You can rent a barn for free if you ask. ” You don't have to go out in heavy rain, do you? "Yes, and it is." Lorea partitioned her words there once and added, slightly hiding her voice. "I noticed later that the floor wasn't wet at all even though I came into the store in that much rain..." "...... Wow. In fact, this person is only visible to Lorea-chan?" Sarasa hid her voice like she was with Lorea, and Lorea shook her head in a panic. "No, no! You said you had sightings." "That's right. By the way, who did you talk to?" "It's just me..." Sarasa and Lorea looked at each other in silence. Take a sip of tea and exhale in small breaths to warm your body. "After all, I haven't seen that woman since... I wonder what that was." "It's certainly strange - is that it?" Was she a woman? " Thinking of herself as a man, Sarasa replied to Lorea's leaked words. “Yes, you remember it well, because it was one young woman and it was lightweight.” There are no regular carriageway flights from this village to the next town, and even if you had your own horse, you wouldn't be able to reach it in a day if you were a normal person, and even a little special salsa would take half a day. In other words, if you leave the village in the evening, you will definitely need camping on the way. Nonetheless, it is lightweight. "This is truly a mysterious event..." And it came to pass, that the face of the man that could do it was suddenly on the head of Sarasa. "... hey, Lorea. What was she like?" "She was a bit of a cool woman. She's a little taller, and she's quite beautiful--" Lorea's characteristics include the appearance of a woman in Sarasa's head, which matches the face of the person who just passed by. That person won't have to worry about the dangers of walking the streets at night, and even the rain on the dirt won't get his body wet. "... no, no way, right?" Thinking of the distance between this village and the king's city, Thalassa shook his head that it was impossible. Even when I was recommended here, I didn't hear any stories like that, and it's hard to imagine that a busy master class would take time to get to such a periphery. In theory, even though I understood that, I couldn't get rid of the idea of 'maybe'. Sarasa said, "Should I ask you the next time I see you? Or is it better not to touch it? 'I was worried.

Prologue Sarasa, we're back. "Mr. Store Manager, I'm home now" "Welcome home, both of you. You're safe." There was a piece of debt disturbance on Mr. Iris' parents' house for a while. Activities as two collectors continued unchanged in particular. Although the problematic debt was liquidated, if you say so, you just borrowed it from me, and the debt itself is not gone. As far as I'm concerned, I could have had it pumped back from my territorial tax revenues, but Mr. Iris and the others chose to keep the gatherers going. Regardless of the money, I missed being able to say goodbye to Mr. Iris, so I didn't even stop him as me. From what I hear, even Mr. Iris' father, Mr. Adelbert, said, 'Non also became a collector, paying off his debts...' etc., but that's exactly what his wife stopped him from doing, and he probably gave up? That one seems strong enough, but it's natural, isn't it? A nobleman with a territory, albeit small. Even though it doesn't help in practice (talk to Mr. Iris), I can't be away all the time. Then, when it comes to making no difference, it's not. First of all, I had a little room for Mr. Iris and the others. Until now, where I could be stuck, I could see how I had stuck it anyway, but sometimes when I became a new creditor, I was saying, 'Do your activity sparingly,' and to some extent, have the money on hand. Most importantly, I still live in my house and my meal is ours, so the only thing that has changed is that the preserved food and belongings are a little better when I go to collect them. And the other, the way you call me. Ever since then, Mr. Iris has been calling me out of my mind, because that's what triggered it -. "I mean, Mr. Iris, are you going to continue? It." "... Wouldn't that work? "No, I mean no..." Seriously or just kidding, that way of calling me and Mr. Iris since we talked about their marriages the other day. If that's where the reason is, it's clear, 'No!' I'd just like to say that when I can turn a lonely eye from Mr. Iris... "I don't mind being called Sarasa, but you're not going to marry me, are you? Neither does Mr. Iris, it doesn't mean he hates men, or that women are good with each other, does it? "Well. But when I think about him, there's something about him that I don't like a little bit." Mr. Iris looks up and exhales a deep sigh. I haven't heard the details, but when I got home, he felt quite bad. As much as Kate said with a serious face, 'If I hadn't had any money, I wouldn't have returned it alive', so even if it was half the talk, I guess it was. "Sarasa is a hundred times better off considering marrying Arre - no, this way of saying it is rude. I'm times happier... isn't this the same? I don't care how many times negative it is. Uh-huh." Having been troubled for a while, Mr. Iris stares straight at me when he punches Pong and his hand. "... Yeah, I want to marry Sarasa. This is it! "is, to be clear, tele..." From the front, Mr. Iris, who speaks clearly, seriously, handsome. I'm glad Mr. Iris is a woman. If you were a man, you would have fallen. Yeah. "A., I don't hate Mr. Iris, but for once, I'm also a maiden who dreams of a nice man showing up." Prince Cool, though I won't say anything. "Mm-hmm. Wouldn't that beat a 'nice man' or something? "Even if you lose, Mr. Iris... that's a shame! "What!?" "No, I think he's basically a nice guy..." Appearance is...... good. She's cute, and she's cool sometimes. Sometimes the unfortunate part is hidden, so it's specularly positive or negative, slightly positive. 'Beautiful!' is a little short for dreaming. In terms of other status (social status), bent aristocratic inheritance. If we get married, it's a good plus as a merchant, given that it comes with us. My relationship with my father-in-law...... Master Adelbert seems to be an honest knight and easy to get along with, and I heard that Chirali said something 'if you marry me', so he doesn't seem to have an obstacle on that side. ... Yeah, it's an excellent property, isn't it? I have to think about gender. We have to think about gender! Here, the most important part. It's even more troublesome that I have a way of doing something about it. "Well, gender is a measure, and if you're a partner, not a marriage, women can tolerate each other, but then you'd better have someone to support you, both public and private." Because there are quite a few unmarried women in this industry. Alchemists tend to miss out on opportunities to get married because even women can make quite a bit of money and it will dawn in other stores at the right age of marriage. "Mmm. Support? What kind of support would Sarasa want? I can collect as much material as I want." "Is it material? That's not bad either, but it would be nice to have someone in charge of an area I'm not good at anyway." If that bothers you, you can go collect the material yourself, and I'm not bad at that. It's a problem when it comes to wasting time, but you can even buy materials - or if you're a regular alchemist, that's the main point. Otherwise... "I was wondering if it would be better for someone to be able to cook deliciously...? If you could do some chores, it would still help. Because we can focus on alchemy." "Ri, is that cooking? You're not very good at that. - What if that means getting Kate to stick with you? Kate can do her chores, too, right? When Mr. Iris let his eyes swim like trouble to my hopes, he pushed forward with a pong and a hand on Kate's shoulder next door. In contrast, Kate, who was to be offered, blinked her eyes as puzzled, looking back at Iris. "Oh, that, were you serious? Iris?" "Is that Mr. Kate? Not bad, but then Lorea, who can not only cook but also have a store number, tastes better twice in a grain." "Wow, is that me? Me and Mr. Iris, who, aside from the parties, say stupid things. "Um, Mr. Sarasa. I'm glad you feel like it, but my hobby is..." "And, of course, you're kidding, right? If you think of it only as a partner, so be it. It's true you're helping." To Lorea, who pulls herself aside a little, excuses in a hurry. But I'm really helpful with Lorea's support, so I'm not Mr. Leonora, but if you're not careful, I'm really afraid I'm going to miss my wedding. "Iris, if you're really going to marry the store manager, you're going to be the boss for me, so it's natural to support both public and private, but aren't you happy with the Omake treatment? And Kate, with a slightly troubled look, complains to Iris. Mr. Iris, who heard it, thought a little and nodded as he was convinced. "... then even I'm more of an omache. Nominally, I can't give up my real wife." "That's not the problem! Not at all. The manager doesn't want to do that." Yes, it is. Tell him, Mr. Kate. "First of all, let the manager be concerned about that, right? ... Oh? I don't know, the clouds... "Hmm. That's a good theory. Was it awkward to turn him around?" "Yeah, right. First you have to make yourself more attractive." "No, that's the problem." I'm kind of saying something to support Mr. Iris, but, Kate, are you serious? Isn't it like being under your command to stop here? Maybe it's not that simple because I owe you money. "Hmm. Looks like we're in a little too much of a hurry. In the meantime, let's call it back. Store Manager" "Oh, no, the essence is there -" "Let's try to train the bride first so the manager can choose. I'll do my best, hope for me! "but good luck......? While I find something strange, I return it unexpectedly to Mr Iris, who forcefully declares it. It's hard to say 'you don't have to work hard' when you see it with those sparkling eyes! "Well, it's hard to throw away Iris' bridesmaid, but I also feel a little different that the manager is the bridegroom." "But the money's going to be better than the manager's, right? It's not a big deal, like the tax revenues we get from our territory." "Right there. How about one here, and we're both bridegroom? "Well, so is that. And there, Kate will be joining us! "As for that, as we discuss it again..." "Hmm? What? Does Kate prefer to look like a bridegroom? "I'm not..." Pong and his hand were placed on my shoulder, confused as to what was wrong with the two people who started to talk to him somehow. Looking back, there you are, Lorea with a gentle grin. "That's tough, Mr. Sarasa" "Other personnel, Lorea." "Because it's other human resources. Good luck to you too, Mr. Sarasa. Various." There was a bit of blame. If you turn your eyes to Lorea, she says so and shrugs her shoulders a bit and laughs. But that was all I was able to do with other personnel. "Oh, my God, Lorea. Oh, no. Oh, well. I'm sorry." "Huh? What is it? "You miss only one of us. It's okay. It's okay to have another one." "Yes, no, I plan on getting married normally..." "You don't have to be shy, do you? We don't pay attention to details. Hopefully, the Second Lady wants it to be Kate..." "Oh? I wouldn't mind, would I? Even if Lorea is the Second Lady." "Ko, I'm in trouble! "Sure. Kate, the jury, is better off in the house." "Not that way...! Lorea started panicking on her ass, and I stood up quietly and faded out the scene.

In the residential area neighbouring the shopping area, they were able to get a room safely. Though not a high-class hotel, neither was it a hotel that the poorest segment of the population uses. Adventurers and peddlers seem to frequent it. 「 Since I cannot sleep with another person nearby, you two will be in another room. 」 There are no hotels that are cheaper for slaves, some allow camping out in the stables, but since there is the matter of meals and equipment, the two slaves accepted. Since they were wearing tidy equipment, the slave tattoo was not visible, so the landlady did not say anything either. 「 Put your luggage away and gather in the dining room. 」 While Hifumi paid the landlady the lodging expenses of the three, the two went up to the upper rooms quickly. 「 Good grief, he’s not gentle, nor somewhat concerned. 」 (Origa) 「 Perhaps he is not interested. As far as master is concerned, a man is either an enemy or not one, does he find anyone other than an opponent interesting? 」 To Origa’s muttering at Hifumi, Kasha tilted her head. 「 Though he seemed to talk to Thorn from the weapon shop quite easily. 」 (Kasha) 「 That, I think it was because of the topic of weapons. 」 (Origa) Origa’s words were somewhat dissatisfied. The hotel in which Hifumi stayed, ‘Matthew Peak’ had the dining room on the first floor, and the guest rooms on the second. It is not very big, and has only two kinds of rooms, single and twin. Once Hifumi confirmed that there was no one inside his room, he stepped inside and looked around. The window was not of glass, it was a simple wooden one. Recalling from memory, none of the shops had any glass, though there was some in the castle lighting. It seems to be a high-quality article. Worn out bedding spread out over a simple single bed, with a wooden pitcher and cup on a small shelf next to the bed. Other than that, no other furniture. Storing his katana in the Dark Hole, Hifumi removed his equipment. He sat on the bed and started planning. First off, I need to sort things out before leaving this town. After the meal, Origa and Kasha should be asked, if they don’t know, it will be necessary to investigate tomorrow. Value of gold and silver coins, about Magic, about Adventurers, about demons, about this country, about this world..... There are a lot of unknowns, and because of preparations to travel, it is necessary to think about it. How to travel in this world? There cannot possibly be trains and cars, so by foot or a wagon? It seems that travelling between relay stations while fighting demons is likely. When Hifumi descended to the dining room, Origa and Kasha were already seated. Their food was ready, but still untouched. Hifumi smiled wryly at the dutiful slaves, sat down and began to eat the prepared food. Today’s menu: stew mixed with vegetables and meat, along with a potato salad. 「 I’m getting used to the food here. Though the taste is a little thin, it’s delicious enough. 」 「 This is thin...... Master must have been born in a rich family. 」 From the conversation during the meal, it seems that salt and sugar, etc are not very easy to obtain. Especially so for the castle-town they were in, it took ten days or more for the wagons to come in from the sea. 「 Aa, after the meal, I am coming to you room. 」 To this casually delivered sentence, Origa and Kasha react with a twitch. 「 That is.... 」 「 Understood. 」 Though Kasha started to say something, Origa interrupted with an acknowledgement. The double room which Origa and Kasha were using, it was simply double the size of the single room and had two beds and shelves. Hifumi sat on one bed, and the two sat opposite him with their arms folded and listening hesitantly. Suddenly, Kasha lowered herself to the floor and bowed deeply. 「 I have a request. 」 「 So suddenly? Changing your way of speaking, that’s disturbing. 」 「 Di-Disturbing...... Um, please do not lay a hand on Origa... is my request. I will take her place. 」 「 Kasha?! 」 At this unexpected incident, Origa opened her eyes wide in surprise. 「 Origa, that... her body is not so strong, that sort of thing is too early. 」 「 ....Ah. 」 Looking at Kasha’s deeply flushed face and her hurried words, Hifumi understood her explanation and laughed. 「 D-Don’t laugh... Please. When I was bought, I was prepared for such a thing.... 」 「 Kasha, me as well. 」 Origa lowered herself next to Kasha and lowered her head towards Hifumi. 「 Master, I understand my position since I was also bought by master. Therefore... 」 「 Wait a minute. Don’t just advance your delusions by yourselves. 」 Hifumi snorted, ordering the two to sit on the bed as before. 「 Don’t misunderstand. I haven’t particularly thought of sleeping with you. 」 「 B-But purchasing us, two women as slaves.... 」 「 Ah, that kind of implication can’t be helped. For now, because Kasha and Origa are beautiful women, that kind of thinking was to be expected. That is not my purpose. 」 On being called beautiful women, both women looked down with reddened faces. Origa’s gesture was lovely, Kasha’s ears were red. Their aura of Adventurers completely dissolved, becoming that of young women instantly. 「 I do not wish to sleep with an unknown companion, I would rather do so with a consenting partner. Using a situation to do this is something I absolutely dislike. 」 The mental strain suddenly released, Kasha gaped at him with her mouth open. Therefore, Hifumi did not intend to treat them like slaves, he continued, 「 Today, my feeling of slaughtering was completely satisfied. In the first place, I don’t feel the need to sleep with a woman. 」 To these words, Origa and Kasha were shocked. After waiting for the two to calm down, Hifumi began his knowledge gathering. – The various coins are gold, silver and copper. One Gold coin is Silver coins, and one Silver is Copper coins. – The demons are of two types, the Beast type and the Undead type. The Beast type has particular disposition to the ferocity of animals. The Undead type has Zombies or Ghosts. Due to the territorial nature of the predatory Demon-kin, the chances of encounters rise on leaving towns and highways. – Magic has the Fire, Water, Wind, Earth, Light, Dark attributes. Though there are many who can practice magic, especially due to systematisation, the usage seems to differ based on the image of the individual, and the teaching of the master. Generally, the magic and image are brought together by the staff, but a skilled person can, with practice use magic without the staff. – This country, Orsongrande is the largest human-ruled highly-populated country, but young men are conscripted from the rural areas, the humans unreasonable parts emerge. – The Adventurer refers to a person registered to a ‘Guild’ where a branch exists in each city, and their jobs involve demon subjugation, arrests etc and receive rewards for it. Kasha had registered along with Origa with a guild in this castle-town for two years as active Adventurers till the day of their mistake. 「 Guilds, huh? Then do other kinds exist, like merchant guilds? 」 「 Though there are service offices, as far as I know, other than Adventurer guilds, there are none others. 」 (Kasha) Apparently all guilds of this world seem to be concentrated on combat related requests, there are no workforce like agencies. Though requests from the country may be received, they are not sent to war. It seems to stick to the stance that whatever the work, payment matters the most. 「 Because of that, there are no conflicts with the nobles in the country. 」 「 Requesting an Adventurer is more inexpensive than making the same request of a soldier. 」 To Origa’s explanation, Hifumi thought about the idea of outsourcing in this world. While listening to various things, it had become quite late. The clamour from the dining room had also died down. 「 Well then, it is late. Teach me these things tomorrow. My best regards. 」 To Hifumi who stood up, Origa half rose to her feet. 「 I, sleeping with master, is not particularly unpleasant.... 」 「 Though I don’t know why you are in such a hurry, at least say it without trembling next time. 」 Gently smiling, Hifumi left the room. 「 Origa, why go that far..... 」 Kasha held Origa’s shoulder anxiously as Origa quietly cried. On leaving the room, Hifumi sighed. Being approached by a lovely young woman does not feel bad. Before, he liked a woman, and she liked him. They dated for a while, but for some reason separated. From now on, he has to live in this world. Other than Origa and Kasha, there is a possibility of forming such relationships with others as well. However, what to do in the future is undecided, for there is a feeling of satisfaction of finally killing someone. Hifumi decided to put it on the back burner for now. 「 Well.... 」 Concentrating his conciousness, Hifumi scanned the building and its immediate surroundings. On the side facing the road, there is a sign of an unnaturally still person near one corner of the building. Moreover, the back of the building.magic Hifumi did not return to his room, and quietly jumped out from the window of the second floor passage to the outside. He silently approached the back of the unnaturally still person. It was a woman. Lovely blonde hair in loose waves, glossy in spite of the night. Splendid proportions, wearing a remarkably thin almost see-through dress. On looking at her, she seemed to be a prostitute. Hifumi approached from the back, and at the last moment called out. 「 Do not move. 」 Unaffected by the way of speaking, the feeling of incongruity remained. 「 Stop your unskilled drama. You are from the Knight Corps. 」 In the silent night, a gasp is heard. 「 Why.... 」 「 In the first place, no prostitute has muscles those thick at her waist and wrist. That is a characteristic of someone used to wielding something. Secondly, a prostitute is not likely to show herself off at such a scarcely populated street. More likely to earn more money in the red-light area. Thirdly, the hair. 」 「 Hair? 」 「 With lustrous hair like that, only a noble-like person can afford shampoo of such high quality. It is different from those of the people on the street. 」 On being seen through so easily, the woman regretted thinking that Midas’ reports were exaggerated. 「 Do not turn around. First your name. With it, what is the identity of the people left to Midas in the day? 」 Giving up, the woman introduced herself as Pajou from the same Third Knight Corps as Midas. 「 The corpses that Midas examined, there was a particular tattoo on all of the bodies. 」 「 Tattoo.... A slave? 」 「 There was no reaction of magic, the shape was also different. I fear that those guys belonged to an underground organisation which uses these tattoos as identifiers. There are records of them several times in the past, so it is possible that they belong to the same organisation. 」 「 Those sorts of groups, don’t you have any intelligence on them? 」 「 Honestly, they number too many. When we are able to muster enough force to crush them, they disappear. 」 Hifumi considered that. With the intelligence gathering level of this world, grasping the underworld would be quite troublesome. 「 Oy Pajou. 」 「 Yes? 」 「 From the opposite building, are those the Knight group watching you? 」 , lamenting as such , Pajou turned her gaze towards the room where the window was opened just a little. 「 .... That is so. Two colleagues are observing from there. 」 「 Then, the two in the back of the building? 」 What are you saying now 「 As expected, it does not seem to be the Knight Corps. It is not possible to relay this to your companions. Come along. 」 「 Aa, wait! 」 Sending a signal to her colleagues for confirmation of contact with target, Pajou chased after Hifumi hurriedly. When Pajou arrived next to Hifumi who had slipped into the darkness of the building’s side, he quietly started explaining. 「 There are two men. They are very likely companions of those guys earlier today. Most likely they are planning for the next attack. 」 「 Catching them? 」 「 Assuming they are caught, can you make them talk? 」 Assuming that torture is done, the certainty is not expected. In this age where technology was not that advanced, Hifumi figured that the possibility of being killed before obtaining any information was high. From the reaction of Pajou, there seems to be neither magic nor a medicine used for such purposes. 「 One person will be killed. The other will be wounded, trace that one. 」 While saying so, Hifumi took out two cm masses of iron from his clothes, corners shaved to a point. 「 These are weapons from my country. It has various names, my school calls them ‘Tsubute’. Apparently, throwing weapons are not seen as important. I’ll display an interesting one. 」 Smoothly slipping half out of cover, two ‘Tsubutes’ flew up quickly. The man who was looking at the second-floor rooms fell to a sudden impact. The other somehow stood up and left hurriedly on seeing the first one’s demise. Holding his side where the ‘Tsubute’ grazed him, his speed was slow. 「 Lets go. 」 While chasing the man marked by Hifumi, Pajou passed the first one, and saw him dead, bleeding from a hole in his neck. A small grain of iron becomes a deadly weapon...... Perhaps the victim himself will not know what hit him. Pajou looked at Hifumi’s back and shivered, knowing that if one was hostile to Hifumi, far from clashing with swords in a dignified manner, there will be a result in which one will be dead before realising it. The man who escaped the sudden attack and death of a friend would be confused. Not paying attention to the surroundings, he entered the aristocratic block, not far off from the castle and disappeared into the back door of a large mansion. Hifumi verified from a distance that the man had entered the grounds, following him, Pajou also saw it. 「 There... that is Marquis Raghlain’s estate. 」 「 Marquis huh. That guy is a big-shot eh? 」 「 Ee, moreover.... One of the Knights killed by you in the audience room was the second son of the family head, Marquis Raghlain. 」 After saying that, Pajou realised her mistake. The second son of Raghlain died attacking Hifumi. That time, Hifumi had made the King, the father pay for the princess’ crime. Then, what will Hifumi do in the residence of a hostile person? Retrieving his katana from his waist, the answer is clear from Hifumi’s smile. 「 Is that so. That’s extremely good to hear. 」 Pajou regretted not having had the other Knights follow her. 「 Well then, I must warn you not to trouble me. 」 Not thinking the warning was necessary, the dress-wearing Knight shook her head.

Early morning. On the excessively spacious practise field of the soldiers, located in the outskirts of the capital, the knights, with exception of those on public order duty, gathered. The figures of Royal Knight Order Captain Sabnak, Knight Order Captain Lotomago and Knight Order Vice-Captain Midas are there as well. All members number , including one part being newcomers. It’s no more than a third or less of the numbers from their golden age, but although the veterans feel lonely, the gathering of this many knights all at once is rare as well. In front of them, not knowing when it was built, a simple hut, that was only the frame of an one-story house with walls and door installed, was standing. Coming out from that hut is the Earl, whose name and face is now known by anyone from the knight orders, Hifumi. “Good morning.” (Hifumi) “”Good morning, sir!”” Once Hifumi nodded due to completing the greetings, staff members from the royal castle distributed the weapons they brought along. Those are wooden short spears that have a length of reaching up to the chest of an adult man. “Those were made out of wood in order to practise using short spears during the patrolling within the castle. They have no weight, however it will probably be fine if you only learn the style for starters. Each of you will take the one you’re holding home and bring it back for the next time we train.” (Hifumi) Once everyone got a weapon, Hifumi pointed at the frame-only building. “For now we haven’t been able to make more than one house, but the plan is to build two more of them.” (Hifumi) “For what the heck will those be used?” (Sabnak) Due to Sabnak’s question, Hifumi said “It will be faster if I show you” and had three people enter into a room of the frame-only house. And then he enters holding a short spear himself as well. “For the time being, the three inside, attack me at the same time. No worries, I will go easy on you.” (Hifumi) Thanks to that line, the knights, who were pride of being the elite, although they were assembled at random, angrily set up their spears. “Thank you. I judged that your experience of fighting indoors is small. It’s faster to show you the way to answer your question.” (Hifumi) Lightly gripping the spear in his right hand, Hifumi is waiting for the three to come attacking. As on of them stabs with his spear, he lightly avoids that by taking a distance in order to push it away with his foot and then says, “There are three of you for a reason. Synchronize your breathing.” (Hifumi) While saying this, he leisurely moves to the centre of the room. “First off, at this point they fail. Do you know why?” (Hifumi) “Me?” (Knight) The singled-out knight, who was observing from the outside, let a nervous voice escape. “Umm... is it about the situation of Earl Tohno moving to the centre of the room?” (Knight) “Since it looks like you didn’t understand the entire reason, your answer is only half right.” (Hifumi) While he is explaining, the three are surrounding Hifumi. They come stabbing at the same time at the place they estimated they would be able to encircle him, but they can’t seize Hifumi. As he passes through a gap between the knights, he lightly brushes one’s flanks with the edge of the wooden spear. “Look, with this, one of you was done in.” (Hifumi) “As expected, if it’s only three knights...” “What are you saying! If there were or of them in the confined space, they would lose the ability to move about.” (Hifumi) “Uh...” After that Hifumi instructed them in stuff such as defence and clearing an encirclement by using all the furnishings like shelves, the building’s walls and the pillars. At the beginning especially the knights formerly affiliated with the Second Knight Order were complaining about his sneaky and wait-and-see movements, however after repeatedly doing battles against him in groups of three their dissatisfaction naturally vanished as they saw its distinct effectiveness. Their honesty about this seems to also be due to the Second Knight Order having actually experienced real combat to some degree. “For a while you will use this hut for training in turns. The remaining groups will fix their training on how to use a spear.” (Hifumi) There are several of the many techniques, shown by Hifumi, the knights already knew. In addition to the thrusting techniques of the knight’s spearmanship, they are furthermore training technical strikes by using the spear’s pummel to entangle an opponent and lastly there are even references how to use the spear for throwing it. As all of that was crammed into them within just the morning, the most the knights could do was to learn the things without being able to say whether they would able to apply it or not. Furthermore. “These are the basics. You have to leverage your indoor combat by memorizing these movements within three days.” (Hifumi) The knights sat down and started to discuss as Hifumi said this much and quickly left towards the castle. The enthusiastic Lotomago is lying on the ground with his head facing up as his body can’t follow up on the movement. He has an extremely relieved facial expression. “... If we don’t do it, it will be bad, right?” (Lotomago) Sabnak shakes his head due the words of his colleague. “You can’t say it’s fine to not do it. At least, I believe it to be necessary for the sake of finishing the upcoming coronation ceremony without problems as person in charge. Also, if you want to take care of your subordinates’ lives, there’s likely no other way but go through with it.” (Sabnak)magic “For that reason we have no other choice but to take the lead”, Sabnak said as he put strength into his knees and stood up. ☺☻☺ Starting from Horant’s capital Adolamelk, the country fell into a temporary, great chaos. On top of having an enemy invade the royal castle and significant damage to the military forces occurring, troops from a foreign country have been stationed in the capital. Moreover, the situation is that they are essentially training the soldiers from Horant. Furthermore, even the magic tool research institution, which was run by the state, has been damaged. The amount of money they had to pay to the Tohno territory, located within Orsongrande, as reparation isn’t a low amount by no means either. Naturally this caused dissatisfaction among the nobles dedicated to their country. Movements of opposition against the quite weakened royalty started to emerge, but for some reason just at that timing ... the reports of ferocious monsters increased. Together with the appearance of people, who didn’t seem to feel any pain, the nobles had their hands full just dealing with the territories in this confusing state. And while the nobles had to accept their confinement to indoors, Horant’s national army, whose core units were stationed in Adolamelk, were trained and taught about technologies by the territorial soldiers of Fokalore, led by Alyssa, in order to improve their strength to a certain degree to compensate for the decreased number of soldiers. Even if some noble somewhere revolted right now, they wouldn’t be able to rival the capital to make it surrender at all. “... I guess it’s fine to say that we completely lost.” (Suprangel) While looking at those reports, Suprangel sighed deeply. Although he himself is the king, his way of inviting soldiers of an enemy nation will give birth to a considerably backlash. Although he had prepared himself for the case of protest coming from someone skilled, the authority of the king was strengthened, the power of the nobles was weakened and the capital was flourishing, if you looked at the results. In order to increase the distribution channels for magic tools, the number of merchants coming and going from Orsongrande have increased and thus the tax yields grew as well. To some degree they are even able to recover the part, they had to pay as reparation. “What about the guests from Fokalore?” (Suprangel) “Haa! The soldiers from Orsongrande haven’t caused any particular problems. ... Rather, since they are distributing the edible parts of monsters, they caught, every day on the market and as they are strangely fine to pay money, they seem to be accepted by the citizens around the castle.” The young man, who reported this slightly unpleasantly, is a distant relative of the king and calls himself Nelgal As consequence of uncovering many royals cooperating with the royal grandson Veldore, quite a few of them had been exiled or disposed of. “There aren’t only bad things about this situation either. If the population is delighted and prospers, it will become the country’s wealth. Rather, what we should be worried about is the soldiers from Fokalore leaving from here.” (Suprangel) “What do you mean?” (Nelgal) “If a shadow is cast on the state and public order of the capital after they are gone, the people and nobles will likely consider us royals to be incompetent. Even if it became as it had been before, once they learn about a good state, anything below that won’t be permitted anymore.” (Suprangel) After Nelgal nodded as he seemed to have understood, he started to ponder about something dropping his line of sight a bit. The king leisurely waits for him. “My king, there is a single thing I want to request from you, but...” (Nelgal) “I shall allow it. Let’s have you try saying it.” (Suprangel) “I would like you to dispatch me to Fokalore. I have heard in many places of things such as many people gathering in the territory of Fokalore in order to study including the administration of a territory. If you deem it acceptable to approve, my humble opinion is that I’d like to study those subjects as soon as it possible.” (Nelgal) Due to his suggestion Suprangel unintentionally showed a smile. “I see. I heard that the land, governed by that man, is growing rapidly. I guess it wouldn’t be pointless by no means.” (Suprangel) “Then!” (Nelgal) “Hmm...” (Suprangel) He thinks about the circumstances of the man called Hifumi. The man who came to an unknown world. What will he destroy in this world? What will he create? Where will he go to? Suprangel unsealed the letter that had been placed next to him. Its contents are information about the enthronement of a new king in Orsongrande. “Very well. I will dispatch you to Fokalore, Nelgal.” (Suprangel) “Thank you very much!” (Nelgal) “I will also accompany you up until the capital of Orsongrande. There I will directly meet with the new king and ask them for your sake.” (Suprangel) Something like the king leaving his country is unprecedented in Horant. Even in foreign countries it’s something that almost never happens. Nelgal started to fluster as it became quite a serious matter. “It’s fine. Now that I recall, you could say I took lessons from my predecessor as well.” (Suprangel) He swings the letter from before causing a fluttering sound. “Also, if I only look at this scrap of paper, I won’t understand anything. It is necessary to actually check things with my own eyes to comprehend them. If I had a wider outlook and discernment, things might not have led to Veldore dying either...” (Suprangel) “My king...” (Nelgal) “The troops of that man were accompanied by a considerably high-ranking officer. Let’s ask for their cooperation in entering Orsongrande.” (Suprangel) “Let’s learn a lot of things by looking together at this vast world”, Suprangel laughed. ☺☻☺ Around the time the knight orders spilled sweat and other things due to Hifumi’s gruelling training in the practise area of the capital, Vaiya, who was in the testing ground inside the dwarves’ workshop within Fokalore, was tumbling about on the ground while being smeared with dirt. “There is such kind of motion...” (Vaiya) “As it is the first time for me to handle this weapon-like arm, I’m not able to explain the difference.” (Caim) While panting lightly, Caim answered expressionlessly as usual. “First time... eh?” (Vaiya) “Yes. After I received guidance by the Lord, I’ve been training on a daily routine.” (Caim) The kusarigama is clasped in Caim’s hands. Holding the counterweight attentively, he has taken a stance of holding out the sickle in front of him. “... Is it also the instruction of Earl Tohno to not lower your weapon even if your opponent has fallen?” (Vaiya) “Yes. Even if the opponent seems to be helpless, I was told that it’s the basic to confront them without being negligent.” (Caim) “I’m no match for you”, Vaiya stands up while dusting off the dirt. He grabbed the sword which was lying nearby. “You have splendidly broken my pride as a knight.” (Vaiya) Sheathing the sword, Vaiya took the kusarigama, he had received for his own use, into his hands. “It’s a strange weapon. However, on top of entangling my sword with the chains, you knocked my body down by pulling my feet away.” (Vaiya) Although it was the first time the other party used this weapon, Vaiya didn’t think he would be this helpless. To make matters worse, his opponent, far from being a soldier, is a civil official. It doesn’t even seem like Caim has been training that much either. “Once again, please, I want you to teach me how to use this weapon. I did understand that this is something extremely helpful for us.” (Vaiya) “... May I also ask for the reason?” (Caim) “There is no other way to maintain order within the castle but to “kill” an enemy by using swords or spears. However, if we are able to efficiently use this kusarigama and the shuriken, we will be able to capture the enemy without having them get away or having to kill them. That will allow us to obtain information from the enemy as well.” (Vaiya) “If we are able to do that, it won’t be impossible to deal with a situation before it becomes dangerous”, Vaiya talked about his own thoughts. He ended up blushing as he uncontentiously became passionate talking about it, but he still wanted to convey his enthusiasm. Caim’s expression, which he saw incidentally, was still arrogant but he moved his head vertically. “I understand. I will teach you the technique as far as I know.” (Caim) “W-Well, then after this...” (Vaiya) Caim slightly squinted due to Vaiya being impatient. “That’s right, for the sake of your goal, I heard from you, it probably won’t be sufficient to only do one-on one training, and moreover with no one but only me.” (Caim) No sooner than he said that, more than soldiers in groups showed up on the testing ground. “Good morning!” “Yes, good morning.” (Caim) The soldiers, quickly forming a line, are each carrying their own kusarigama in their hands. They have straightened their backs facing towards Caim. Caim stands in front of them in a natural manner. Caim talks in his usual flat voice to Vaiya, who doesn’t understand what is happening. “These are the people who received instructions from Lord-sama together with me. For starters, we will drive the techniques, we know of, into Vaiya-sama.” (Caim) “Eh? Drive into me means...” (Vaiya) To Vaiya it looked like Caim’s eyes sparkled. “From today onwards we will drive all of the “guidance”, we received from Lord-sama, into you with all our power. ... Please be somehow careful to not die.” (Caim) “Haha... please don’t be too hard on me...” (Vaiya) I might have made a slight mistake in my choice of whom to ask for help

“If that’s how it is, I will accept.” “Thank you very much.” Malfas advanced by himself through the forest to hide himself from the other beastmen and finally arrived at the former Swordland. Both his hand have been bound, but after somehow succeeding in being let through to Vepar, he obtained permission to join the demon army. The occupied human castle. It’s the place where the bear beastman Salgu, who stormed in to save the beastmen, fought against Swordland’s king a while ago, and where both of them were killed by Hifumi who barged into their fight, but there’s no way for Vepar and Malfas to know about that taking place. Using the audience hall as is, Vepar, who sat on the throne, looked down upon Malfas. “However, can I have you tell me the things you learned and saw at the time you went to the human cities without holding back anything? In addition, I will have you give me all the information you own about a man called Hifumi.” (Vepar) “Understood.” (Malfas) Malfas didn’t show the slightest hint of pondering over the conditions named by Vepar. but for a convert to appear at this phase; I can’t carelessly trust him although I did accept him joining us. “By the way, I think there were also humans with... those beastmen and elves, weren’t there? What happened to them?” (Vepar) Malfas hesitated to give an answer to this question. “... They said that they would rely on the human Hifumi since they can’t win against the demons.” (Malfas) “I have the intention to capture human cities, so you might have to fight against your former comrades, correct?” (Vepar) “I-I don’t mind. If they come out to fight... besides, my sister won’t appear on the battlefield... probably...” (Malfas) Watching Malfas who tightly grasped both his handcuffed hands while averting his gaze by looking on the floor, Vepar assessed him to be a honest child. “In that case, though it’s abrupt, I guess I’d like you to appear on the battlefield once to have you show me your resolve and ability.” (Vepar) The expression of Malfas, who raised his head, showed him keeping his mouth shut tightly while waiting for Vepar’s words. “I investigated the state called Vichy among the human countries. I plan to genuinely gain full control of that place, therefore I will have you join the invasion army. Thus, demonstrate your usefulness to me.” (Vepar) “Understood. So when will I depart?” (Malfas) “Tomorrow. The start of the invasion is tomorrow as well.” (Vepar) “Eh?” (Malfas) In front of Malfas, who stares at her while not understanding what she has said, Vepar slowly stood up and raised her hands in a big manner. “Answer to my life force and show me a path to that distant place.” (Vepar) No sooner than her saying that, a small black spot appears and turns into a huge circle with a diameter of possibly three meters in the blink of an eye. Its surface that was flat and deep black spread while heading towards Vepar. “This is a darkness spell. A transfer gate. With this I can send soldiers from this location to the human country at once. That’s why you will be able to suddenly attack after departing tomorrow.” With a serious look, Malfas asked Vepar, who proudly looks down on him with her arms folded, “If you have this, even at the time of the first attack... no, you will be able to directly invade into Hifumi’s city...” (Malfas) “Ugh... Well, there are various conditions. Currently we can’t transfer anywhere except for Vichy.” (Vepar) She phrased it in a way that made it apparent that she’s dodging the matter, but what Vepar said were facts. Receiving instructions in dark magic from the death god, she became able to draw up plans that use transfer gates which even Hifumi can’t use. However, on top of being influenced by compatibility and mana, Vepar couldn’t transfer anywhere besides places, which possess landmarks that were set up in advance, or places Vepar already visited once. Moreover, the current size of its opening was the limit. Given the limit of its size that allowed around ~ people to pass through at once depending on their body sizes, they would likely be killed one after the other at the transfer destination if they thoughtlessly appeared in front of Hifumi. Therefore she decided to first capture Vichy in order to prepare close to the other human countries. Though that’s nothing she would tell Malfas who is treated as common soldier. Once she’s satisfied with the look of Malfas, who admires the transfer gate with its jet black opening, a single girl appeared from within that darkness. It’s Pheres who belongs to the demon army. “Ah, it was you after all, Vepar-sama. Everyone got startled when the gate suddenly appeared in the barracks.” (Pheres) “Oh, really? Sorry, sorry. Ah right, can you guide him to the barracks on this occasion? You can take off the handcuffs.” (Vepar) “Yeees~. Come this way then.” (Pheres) Being led by Pheres who came out of the gate speedily and without delay, Malfas fearfully went through the gate as well. After waiting for several seconds and making sure that there’s no change, Vepar closed the gate. “Phew...” (Vepar) She opened a big gate to put on airs, but it takes % of her mana to open such a gate, leaving aside maintaining it. Vepar entrusted her body into the throne due to her exhaustion that was accompanied by a light dizziness. “Anyway, it seems like you got a handle on it, doesn’t it?” “Death god... are you sarcastic? Even though I have to sit on the chair out of exhaustion.” (Vepar) “What are you saying? Just being able to use it up to this point is already a great achievement.” A skinny man in a tailcoat. The death god stands next to the throne while showing a creepy grin. “He has the talent to do so. However, in fact he can’t use gates.” Even the death god apparently doesn’t understand why Hifumi can’t use transfer gates. “The manifestation of the attribute also changes depending on the person’s elementary attainments and their image to what is called “So, what did you come here for?” (Vepar) “I visited you to bid farewell.” “... I see. Where do plan to go next and what do you intend to do there?” (Vepar) Vepar believes that it’s not very desirable for the number of people, who can use similar magic, to grow stronger, but she doesn’t possess any means to tie down the existence called death god. “Everywhere, or rather, I will go anywhere. It appears that the world is in the process of approaching my ideal. A conflict between the demons and an alliance of humans is going to start. Many lives will likely be lost.” Vepar tries to not match her eyes with the death god who laughs eerily while licking its lips. “You have a bad taste, you know?” (Vepar) “I’d like you to not say that. After all this is also my job.” “I shall give you my gratitude. The demons, who always existed in the shadows, will very soon become the leading actors of this world. That was the dearest wish of many of our ancestors...” (Vepar) However, that’s not what Vepar wishes for. She will initiate the battle, but she doesn’t wish for a world full of fighting. “If the demons manage to control this world, the world will become peaceful in reverse. Once that happens, your preferred world will vanish, won’t it?” (Vepar) “Indeed... I suppose I will come up with something new at that time. Well then, stay healthy.” The figure of the death god vanishes and silence spreads throughout the audience hall. The room, where oppressive shadows seem to stickily cling to the stone walls, is gloomy, as if expressing Vepar’s mental state. “Let’s get the party started! I guess I will have the battle maniacs do as they please even if I fall into infamy.” (Vepar) While firing herself up, she stands up as her body was slowly recovering its mana. The full-blown invasion will start tomorrow. The new history of the demons will begin from there. ☺☻☺ “Being able to watch him like this from a yet another angle while not going through training myself, he’s dreamy...” (Origa) Origa gazes at Hifumi, who is training the knights of Orsongrande, while breathing roughly through her nose. Because the weather looked like it would rain, their first training spot wasn’t outside, but indoors. It a place that’s usually used as dance hall and the location where Hifumi caused a bloodbath among the knights around Balzephon when they started a revolt before. Right now it has been cleaned up prettily, but there are rumours that you can see ghosts, who lost their arms and legs, every night in there. The floor of that hall has been covered by a carpet, which is useful as cushion to a certain extent, though it’s not to the degree of a tatami. Even so, the knights, who were forced to do plenty of ukemi training on top of the hard floor this morning, seriously tackled the afternoon’s training even while having bruises from head to toe. Having removed their usual armour and wearing simple, thick clothes, they are working hard and earnestly. “You are putting too much power into it. Can you lift up this guy with just your physical strength? Relax and feel the flow of power. It’s only natural for you to be able to control your own strength. Master the skill to make use of the opponent’s strength as you like.” (Hifumi) Hifumi almost never shouts during the times he teaches others. He explains it dispassionately, rectifies the motions with logic depending on the situation, and in addition proves his argumentation by making his students personally experience it. Things like making them grab his index finger and hurling them with just that one finger or making them fall down with a simple grazing of his shoulders look fake if seen from the sideline, but since all the knights experience it themselves, their eyes are frantically watching Hifumi’s movements to gather any knowledge they can. If one were to ask where to find Origa, who is watching Hifumi, you would see her clinging to the entrance door of the dance hall. Maids and civil officials passed by several times, but as none of them tried to call out to her, Origa completely immersed herself in her own world while totally ignoring their existence. She leaked strange voices at times when she could catch fleeting glances of Hifumi’s knees due to the hakama coming off during the times he was showing ukemi patterns or when his chest widely showed due to him swinging his arms and spreading his body. A maid, who unluckily happened to pass at one of those moments, went past Origa with a quick pace while taking as much distance as possible. “So you were here?” (Imeraria) The one who spoke up to Origa in that state was the queen of Orsongrande, Imeraria. “Oh my. Your Majesty the Queen, how may I help you?” (Origa) “I heard that you had entered the castle together with Hifumi-sama today, so I searched for you as I wanted to talk with you. Given that I was told by a maid that you are over here, I planned to check on the state of the knights since it’s a rare chance, but... what are you doing? No, even before that, please turn this way as I’m currently talking to you.” (Imeraria) Even while Imeraria was talking, Origa clung to the gap in the door and didn’t show any intention to move. It doesn’t look like she has any plans to change that even after being directly cautioned by the queen.magic “If you want to chat, it’s possible to do it like this as well. Please don’t be a hindrance to my observations of Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) “... I understand. Well then, please listen to me just like that.” (Imeraria) ‘It’s pointless to even argue with her’, Imeraria judged. ‘It will only tire me out unnecessarily.’ towards Hifumi-sama. Since there will be a training session tomorrow as well, I think it will be fine for you to come to the castle with Hifumi-sama just like today and stay over.” (Imeraria) “... That means you have made your decision, doesn’t it?” (Origa) “Yes, I was able to resolve myself to part with the hero. However, I don’t have any intention to offer my life for it. Since I’m a coward, I plan to fortify my protection several fold.” (Imeraria) Imeraria talks towards Origa’s back while standing upright. On the way of coming here, she has issued instructions to Sabnak who accompanied her, and since she has made sure that no one will pass through this place for a while, there’s no worry that she will be heard by anyone. “The exact details I will explain tomorrow. And, there’s one more thing... I will borrow Hifumi-sama tomorrow night.” (Imeraria) Origa turned around for the first time due to Imeraria’s words. Her eyes that were sharp and full of hostility were plenty enough to make Imeraria freeze. However, thinking “I still need permission of Hifumi-sama himself, but... I believe that his child is necessary to me. The current countermeasures against the demons are probably sufficient with the magic skill support from Puuse-san, the combat power of Fokalore and the cooperation with Horant. But, what about the future? Once the demons adapt to the fighting with humans, they will be capable of dealing with us even better, right?” (Imeraria) “I believe that’s something the future humans have to think about. Above all else, did you really think that I would simply nod to offering my husband’s seed due to such political reasoning?” (Origa) “This is also for the sake of creating the world Hifumi-sama wishes for... hii!?” (Imeraria) Before she notices, the iron-ribbed fan of Origa has been thrust in front of her throat. “Go on. If you fail to persuade me, I will have you die here, without a care what grave crime it might be, Your Majesty.” (Origa) ‘Scary’, Imeraria trembled meekly, but beyond that, her rage surges out. “What rudeness! At whom do you think you are pointing your weapon!?” (Imeraria) “I know that, too. I really do.” (Origa) However, Origa doesn’t show any inclination to withdraw her fan. “No, you don’t know anything! Do you believe that I’m choosing to spend a night with a man just for the sake of the country’s future!?” (Imeraria) A short, dry sound echoed through the corridor. Origa, who struck the left cheek of Imeraria, silently looks at her. “You, who obtained your desired place where you belong to, likely don’t understand. The feelings of someone like me who has to continue struggling in a position of bearing heavy responsibility while unable to hate the person who killed my family.” (Imeraria) Origa doesn’t reply. She simply looked at Imeraria who burst into tears. “Even if you give me such reason, I’d like to have proof that this person existed even if it’s someone I will never meet again after sealing them. I want to personally experience a relationship with that person. Are you telling me to not even wish for that? Who do you think you are!? I am...” (Imeraria) The one present there wasn’t the queen of a whole country. It was a single woman who cries as she wants to bond with her beloved partner while being well aware the act in itself is the lowest. “I approve that it’s my defeat! The one who will stay by that person’s side to the very end will likely be you, Origa-san. But, even so there’s something I want.” (Imeraria) Closing the the slightly opened door so that Imeraria’s sobbing won’t be heard in the hall with the hands behind her back, Origa stored the fan at the back of her waist. “... Please ask Hifumi-sama. I will pretend that I never heard any of this.” (Origa) “Origa-san...” (Imeraria) “I’m very well aware that his existence is far too big for me to monopolize him. But, even I have my dignity as his legal wife. Please promise me just one thing.” (Origa) Origa kneels down quietly. “At the time you bear his child, I’d like you to not tell anyone about the child’s father. I beseech you that you definitely don’t tell anyone even if someone asks you.” (Origa) “Su...!” (Imeraria) After taking a deep breath, Imeraria answers Origa’s request, “Understood. It’s not something I can tell anyone to begin with.” (Imeraria) “Let’s meet again tomorrow”, were the parting words from Imeraria’s side. The tension and fear, which are still lingering in the core of her body, cause her knees to tremble. Seeing off Imeraria, who disappears towards the other side of the corridor, Origa fixed he dishevelled dress and returned to observing Hifumi once again. “It’s a big problem that my husband’s popular, isn’t it...? At any rate...” (Origa) There’s no one present to notice her eyes that are peeking through a gap in the slightly opened door distorting into a smile. “It looks like the Hifumi-sama aims for will become a very lovely place. Being sealed together for eternity is dreamy too, but if someone ever undoes the seal... yeah, a yet unpredictable future. A world dyed by death and battle. Hifumi-sama, it will happen very soon. Very soon the two of us...” (Origa) Once one of the knights opened the door when the afternoon training finished, Origa wasn’t present anymore.

Imeraria and Sabnak were in the office of Biron at the time a situation report about Horant’s soldiers having already reinforced the border’s vicinity arrived from the soldiers of Biron Earldom, who are observing the circumstances from afar as there are no messages from the soldiers serving as border security against Horant. After finishing listening to the report, Biron turned around to Imeraria and bowed his head very deeply. “Your Majesty. As retainer possessing a territory at the border, I fully realize that the losses at this occasion have been brought about by my lack of virtue. The responsibility for having uselessly lost Your Majesty’s soldiers lies with this Biron.” (Biron) “No, that’s wrong, Earl Biron.” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who prompted him to lift his face, declared that there’s no kind of mistake from Biron’s side. “All of it is due to Aspilketa, the group who cooperated with him and Horant. Earl Biron, you obtained the achievement of having captured Aspilketa’s group with your own soldiers and there’s nothing for which you should take responsibility.” (Imeraria) “... I feel very thankful.” (Biron) “What we should currently do is to deal with Horant. Earl Biron, please lend us your assistance.” (Imeraria) “At your will.” (Biron) For the sake of carrying out further careful investigations of the situation report, the mansion of Earl Biron was assigned as command post, where Imeraria will be temporarily staying, and the royal army was billeted in buildings located in Münster. And, the very day they opened a war council in regards to coping with Horant, the one who opened his mouth first was Sabnak. “First there’s something I’m worried about. Horant received severe damage by the previous attack of Earl Tohno. Knowing that man’s power better than anyone, they couldn’t oppose him because of their still few numbers and they should be also aware of the fighting strength of the feudal army that man possesses.” (Sabnak) “Why did they attack Orsongrande’s guards and the instruction unit from Fokalore, is what you are asking?” (Biron) Agreeing with Sabnak’s doubts, Earl Biron nodded and said “Certainly.” “As justification it can be described as “we suffered an attack from Orsongrande?” “Or it’s also possible to consider the situation as them treating the instruction unit of Fokalore as “invaders.” Since it’s not like it was witnessed by our side, Horant’s side can phrase it either way. It’s likely that they were able to prepare something enabling them to oppose Hifumi-san... Earl Tohno.” (Sabnak) The ones present at the site of the war council prepared by Biron are Imeraria, Sabnak and Biron. A single maid is on standby in order to provide beverage, but all of the other guards are waiting for orders in another room. Imeraria tilted her head to the side due to Sabnak who drank a black tea. “Something that’s capable of opposing him, that means something such as powerful magic or weapons?” (Imeraria) “Excuse me for leaving the argument unfinished, but if we are speaking of Horant, it’s likely magic. Or it might be that they were able to develop some magic tool.” (Sabnak) Of course, as they are unable to find effective countermeasures in this state where there’s no definite data, they are just spending their time while exchanging words about this or that. At the moment Imeraria stated, “Let’s review the current situation since we haven’t made any progress after around one hour passed”, Sabnak raised his hand. “May I?” (Sabnak) “Did you come up with something?” (Imeraria) “If we don’t understand the circumstances, let’s go have a look.” (Sabnak) Imeraria and Biron stare blankly due to Sabnak’s remark. “Umm... Sabnak-san, go and have a look means?” (Imeraria) “It means just what I said, Your Majesty. If one lacks information, it’s easiest to go and have a look at the actual site. This is a second-hand opinion from Hifumi-san, but we won’t reach an answer even if we ponder about one thing or another. If you don’t comprehend, then go there. That’s the fastest and most accurate ((solution)).” (Sabnak) “That’s easy to say.” (Biron) Biron says while curbing his brows, “Who will do it? If it’s an individually strong person like Earl Tohno, they are likely capable of going anywhere without fearing anything.” (Biron) “Of course I will go.” (Sabnak) “Having proposed it, it’s my duty”, Sabnak stands up. “As you might know, I’m familiar with investigations as ((former)) member of the Third Knight Order. There are several originating from the Third Knight Order among those we brought along. I have also been taught a bit by Hifumi-san. I will just go to check ((the situation)) with my own eyes from a little distance.” (Sabnak) Seeing Sabnak smiling while saying “thus it will be alright”, Imeraria stands up.magic Wearing clothes that fit perfectly for horse riding, her slender figure, where you can’t experience any unevenness even if she throws out her chest, is the same as usual, but even so Biron was able to feel something like matured self-confidence in some respects. (She reached the point that she can make such a face, huh?) Biron, who saw Imeraria several times in the royal castle since her birth, remembered her at the time she was still much smaller. She gave the impression of being a child that was spinning her wheels in impatience if she couldn’t earnestly do something for the people in her surroundings. Now she has become a queen who is responsible for a country and she is taking action no longer for the sake of someone but to accomplish something by changing the country. However, even Biron was at his wit’s end due to Imeraria statement. “I will go as well.” (Imeraria) “Wai...” (Biron) “It’s important for me myself to personally confirm the situation. Or are you telling me to send the soldiers to their death while not knowing anything?” (Imeraria) “I-It’s dangerous, Your Majesty!” (Sabnak) “Oh?” (Imeraria) Smoothly wiping away the hair which shifted in front of her face, Imeraria smiles daringly. “It’s just confirmation from a distance, right? Though I feel sorry for requesting guards, it probably won’t be any problem if we withdraw by horse after checking. Sabnak-san, please select the personnel. We will depart tomorrow morning to check the state of affairs at the national border.” (Imeraria) Having stated it as an order, Sabnak is unable to object any further. After ending the war council as is, Sabnak quickly exits the room to prepare. “Your Majesty Imeraria.” (Biron) “What is it, Earl Biron?” (Imeraria) “I’m against Your Majesty heading out for reconnaissance.” (Biron) Imeraria, who received the objection face to face, stiffens while staring in wonder at Biron’s face and sat down unable to give an answer. After looking at each other’s face for a little while, Biron turned back to his usual, gentle smile. “However, if Your Majesty tells me that you want to do so anyway, I will carry out my role as retainer by supporting you in that. Because I will accompany you tomorrow as well, it will be fine for you to observe the enemy’s movement’s until you are satisfied.” (Biron) Due to Imeraria showing an expression of relief, Biron orders the maid to prepare warm black tea with sugar. “Your Majesty. It’s about the situation I’ve been told by the messenger I sent out, but how did he do?” (Biron) “I understand that he has a promise with a person from Fokalore’s instruction unit or such. Once those news reach Fokalore, Hifumi-sama and Alyssa will probably come here.” (Imeraria) Cooling down her black tea by blowing with a “fuu~”, she enjoys the black tea’s fragrant aroma. “Before that happens, with my power... or better said, although it’s based on the knowledge that I will receive the assistance of everyone, we have to produce results under my command with my way of doing thing.” (Imeraria) “I don’t understand. What’s making you hurry that much? If it’s cleaning up after Earl Tohno, someone like me believes that’s fine as well.” (Biron) “There are two reasons.” (Imeraria) Putting down the cup, Imeraria put one small baked sweet in her mouth in a graceful manner. “First, it’s in order to avoid the military gains concentrating on just Hifumi-sama. At the current point in time he is far too quick in his rising of peerage. If he gathers too much of the populace’s popularity, the internal balance of the kingdom will end up thrown into disarray.” (Imeraria) Although he is nodding while saying that, even Biron can imagine at least this much. “The second reason is a private one.” (Imeraria) “It’s not possible to tell me?” (Biron) Slipping a chuckle, Imeraria placed her lips, which had a thin layer of lipstick applied, on the cup and wetted them with the fragrant black tea. “Probing too much into the secrets of a lady isn’t very well-received, Earl Biron.” (Imeraria) “My, my, I’m very sorry.” (Biron) “Let’s see... it’s for the sake of demonstrating him that I can become a fully-fledged enemy for him.” (Imeraria) “Enemy, it is...?” (Biron) Biron stood up and saw Imeraria, who exited the room after thanking for the tea, off. “It might be better to talk about this once...” (Biron) The are things I should ask Hifumi who is likely coming here sooner or later “Good grief, is being a popular man a crime?” (Biron) ☺☻☺ “I’m bored.” (Hifumi) Hifumi muttered a few words while sitting on a bed in a room of an inn. He is in a city which has a distance from Münster, which is at the upper part of Biron Earldom, where one will arrive after one more day, but Hifumi, Origa and Alyssa intended to join up with Fokalore’s feudal army at this place. Origa and Alyssa have left to talk with the city’s governor to secure a camp-ground for the soldiers. Originally he wanted to quickly enter Horant by himself, stir up the situation and go around killing people if there’s a chance for that, but as he ended up telling Alyssa that he’s leaving it to her, he wasn’t able to do even that. “If I properly think it over, books aren’t circulating either. That means that there’s no special amusement. I didn’t realize how enjoyable it is to kill people.” (Hifumi) Dropping his shoulders while realizing too late that he messed up, Hifumi takes out the katana, while saying “it can’t helped”, and unties the hilt’s string. Performing maintenance of the katana which he hasn’t done for a while now, he pondered whether they would go eat something once Origa and Alyssa came back. “For some reason it looks like you calmed down completely.” “Shinigami, huh? What’s your business?” (Hifumi) Even when he was addressed all of a sudden, Hifumi works on extracting the rivet on the katana’s hilt without being agitated one bit. “No, no, as it seems like your plan is going well, I wanted to give you a little greeting.” “Going well... if you say so, then it has to be. Thanks to that, I have to stay in an inn like this though.” (Hifumi) “In order to obtain a large fruit, it’s necessary to wait for it to grow.” “So”, Hifumi hits the lower stopper to release the sword blade with familiar movements. “Did you come to give me, who has free time, a sermon? You are a guy with a lot spare time then.” (Hifumi) “Being forced to work, that’s certainly not the case, right?” Laughing while shaking with his whole body, which had restored completely, the shinigami arranged the collar of his tailcoat by picking it up with his fingers and sat down in a chair on the opposite of Hifumi. “It appears that the demons plan to extend their hegemony to the wastelands as soon as they complete their preparations. The new demon king apparently hasn’t yet decided whether to fight against the humans. It looks like she is currently pondering what to do about Swordland.” “Vepar, huh...? It will be troublesome if they are won over by choosing a weird safety. The beastmen lot will likely win. Even against the elves. There’s more or less the possibility that they will be dragged into harmonious political measures like they are enacted around Reni, but that probably depends on them.” (Hifumi) “But, you know”, while Hifumi wrecks his brain, he carefully examines the katana which had its lower stopper removed. Although it’s natural, the beautiful blade, which has not a single chip, bewitchingly shone by reflecting the light coming through a small window. “The situation is that the beastmen are groping for a peaceful resolution and the humans are fighting amongst each other. Because everyone despises demi-humans, it’s ironic and funny if you look at it like this.” Hifumi takes no notice of the shinigami who has a softly warped smile on his skinny face. “However, if that is the case for you, do you wish for more conflict to occur? For me it would be better if they killed each other as well, except for the humans.” “Is that so?” (Hifumi) “Yes.” Smearing a thin layer of oil on the blade, he reattaches the hilt once again. “In that case there’s a nice method.” (Hifumi) “Let’s hear it.” “Go to Vepar’s place, name yourself as god of the demons and it will be fine if you hand down various wisdom to them. It’s probably your forte to use people with such words anyway.” (Hifumi) “Please phrase it as me using my intellect.” Hitting the rivet on the katana’s hilt, he carefully affixes the hilt’s string. “Reputation and such is decided by others. Don’t expect that you can act as you like.” (Hifumi) “Even though things may appear this way, I’m a god though.” “That’s probably the same even for gods. Even if you are referred as good god in certain places, you will be treated as cursed god in other places.” (Hifumi) Lightly swinging the katana with his right hand after he finished the maintenance, he sheathes it in the scabbard once he confirms that it isn’t loose anywhere. “It doesn’t particularly matter even if Swordland is crushed. It will be great if they fight against the humans by cooperating.” (Hifumi) Once he tosses the tools into his storage, he stands up and affixes the katana to his waist. “Anyway, it’s about increasing the guys who earnestly use their heads in battles. Without that, I won’t be able to greedily devour them to my heart’s content at the time of harvesting you talked about. Even if there’s a lot of it, there’s no meaning in it if the taste’s bad.” (Hifumi) “Oh dear, what a gourmet. Well then, I shall act according to your esteemed suggestion.” At the same time as the shinigami vanishes, the sound of knocking resounded and Origa came entering while showing a full-faced smile. “Are you alright, dear?” (Origa) “Did you finish your task?” (Hifumi) “Yes, it seems like Alyssa will do the rest. So, umm...” (Origa) Entangling the fingers of both hands while having difficulties to voice it out and fidgeting while blushing, Origa glances repeatedly at Hifumi’s face. “I went peeking into the city’s guild, however it looks like there’s a dwelling of a thieves group nearby. So, if you are alright with that, umm, together...” (Origa) Swallowing down her saliva with a gulp, Origa clenched her fists. “Will you go together with me to kill the thieves tonight?” (Origa) “What do you think I am?” (Hifumi) With these words, Hifumi placed a hand on the doorknob in the blink of an eye. “I will go to ask about the scale of the thieves group and their exact location. Please guide me to the guild.” (Hifumi) “Of course”, Origa nodded in great joy.

Since it was impossible to calmly talk in the guild, Midas and Pajou led Hifumi and the others to a restaurant to eat. Pajou could use the private room, everyone went there. The restaurant near the aristocratic area, “Pluton” was indeed different, waiters wearing simple yet elegant clothes led them to the room. Hearing the name of the restaurant, Midas got cold feet, but Hifumi assented to pay.magic 「 Veteran of the Knight Corps, do not hesitate to pay in a restaurant of this degree. As a Knight, it is shameful. 」 「 Pajou, as a single daughter of a count, you will not understand the hardships of having a wife and children. 」 Entering the room, the Knights took verbal jabs at each other. 「 Though its good that you two are getting along well, I’m hungry. Waiter, what is delicious in this restaurant? 」 Entering the room, Hifumi passed several silver coins to the waiter, the slaves sitting at his sides pretended to read the menu. Unexpectedly gaining money, the waiter smiled widely. 「 Today, the stock of Bighorn meat is good. It is recommended to have it cooked with Oran sauce and stew of the Sodorant style. Red wine is also available. 」 「 Well then, get both, wine as well. 」 Origa and Kasha were unaccustomed to restaurants of this level, but after looking at the menu interestedly, they gave their respective orders. Pajou seemed accustomed, and asking the waiter various things, decided her order. Midas ordered the same things as Pajou. 「 Master, from your behaviour just now, are you used to fine dining? 」(Origa) 「 If you’re coming for the first time and cannot decide, get the professional’s recommendation, that’s how it is. 」 (Hifumi) First off, though unable to read the menu, watching Hifumi maintain a serious attitude, Origa felt some respect towards him. So young, but has the character of an adult. I’m a little envious. (Pajou) Hifumi ignored Pajou’s smirking, as it would be bothersome. Bighorn meat tasted the same as beef. As the waiter said, the steak was moderately chewy, yet softly melted in the mouth. The sourness of the sauce went well with the meat’s delicious sweetness, the dish was a big hit. As for the stew, which contained both vegetables and meat, had a very delicious and complex flavour to it. Kasha, overwhelmed by the delicious food, asked Hifumi for seconds. Pleasantly acknowledging her, Hifumi hailed a waiter. This time the same steak as Hifumi’s was ordered. 「 Kind to the slaves, isn’t he? 」(Midas) Pajou had a surprised look on her face on hearing that. 「 Be they slaves or nobles, living as a person is same for everyone. Faces are different, genders are different, strength is different, social standings are different. Even with so many differences, they’re all the same when sliced up. 」(Hifumi) Though Midas was surprised to hear it, Pajou was unperturbed. 「 I too, on joining the Knight Corps and slipping into the mannerisms of the commoners, my way of thinking changed. Brought up being taught that nobles are special existences, and protecting the ordinary people is what it means to be a Knight. But nothing changes. Being delighted at some trifling good fortune, getting unreasonably angry at something, crying at unexpected misfortune. Thinking about it, slaves are the same. 」(Pajou) 「 However, please be careful about the matter regarding the Marquis. There are many fanatical people out there who consider being a noble as a special privilege.... The majority of them, I think. Nobles in name like me, have smaller territories where the gap between the us and the commoners is small. 」(Pajou) 「 Though people with superiority complexes are occasionally good diversions, they are harmful when left to themselves. For that reason, I think that stimulus like me is necessary to knock down their conceit. 」 It was a joke, Hifumi continued, but the two Knights fell silent. 「 Master, do you wish to fight with the nobles? 」 Origa asked the difficult-to-ask question for the Knights. 「 Not quite. It’s nothing to me if they look down on slaves. As far as I’m concerned, it’s only a matter of whether they get in my way or not. 」 Getting an answer that did nothing to reassure them, the two Knights were unable to say anything and were just relieved to know there was no hostility towards them. Finishing the meal and drinking black tea, Hifumi got to the point. 「 Then, let me hear what Imeraria has prepared. 」 「 Ee, first is the monetary reward. 」 Midas tensely pulled out a small bag from his uniform. Hifumi checked the contents, there were several silver coins in it. 「 ...... By any chance, is this country poor? 」 「 You should know the answer to that! 」 Unable to endure, Pajou retorted but since Hifumi did not seem to mind, Midas felt relieved. 「 It seems that the “reward being given” is a peerage just to keep up appearances. Ah well, not that it matters. 」 「 Speaking of Associate Knights, their stipend is nonexistent, and there’s hardly any change from a commoner’s standing.... 」 From Origa’s words, Hifumi guessed the reason for this action. 「 In short, keeping me in your pocket is scary, but so is me allying with foreign hostile country. Therefore, while guaranteeing personal liberty, giving me an unimportant peerage among nobles will show that I am affiliated with this country. 」 Midas gulped loudly on hearing Hifumi’s precise analysis. True, the peerage existed as an honorary title. Depending on the interpretation, it may be seen as Orsongrande being miserly. 「 With it, this is to be given as a special favour from Princess Imeraria. 」 Pajou took out a rolled-up paper bound with a red string from her uniform. Not parchment, it was proper paper, though strangely thick. 「 ...... I cannot read the characters of this country. 」 Opening the paper passed to her, Origa carefully began to read it. 「 ...... A Free Travel permit. From the Orsongrande royalty, travel of Touno Hifumi and his servants within and outside the country is permitted. Signature of authorisation, Imeraria Torie Orsongrande. 」 Aside from Origa who was reading, Kasha too was speechless. Since there are noble’s territories in various places, entering and leaving such places had some restrictions, even peddlers and adventurers were strictly scrutinised. Even more so if travelling to another country. It’s usually said that farmers and the like spend their entire lives in the towns and villages in which they were born without travelling. However, anyone with the Royal Family’s permit cannot be stopped, regardless the number of people travelling. It’s an extremely high-level protection. 「 However, it is only useful within this country. In a hostile country, far from not being able to enter, there’s the possibility of being attacked. 」 To Hifumi coolly declaring the state of affairs, Kasha and Origa stared at him in surprise. The two Knights had on bitter expressions. 「 After all, this is a chain feigning freedom. Telling us to be within range of your sight isn’t it? 」 Midas and Pajou did not meet Hifumi’s intent gaze. They broke out in a cold sweat and their wine-induced comfortable intoxication vanished as well. 「 That.......what Princess Imeraria is thinking, we do not know. But I think it is convenient for your travels...... 」 「 Haha..」 「 Ee? Master? 」 「 Ahaha ! Well, though there might be someone who suggested this, the woman I saw yesterday seemed to be quite pure and naive, is she capable of something like this? Interesting, truly interesting! 」 Everyone was bewildered at Hifumi’s sudden laughter. 「 Imeraria, does she have talent for politics? Different from her appearance indeed. 」(Hifumi) Midas timidly corrected Hifumi while drinking tea. 「 Imeraria-sama is originally pure, our people call her the princess shrine maiden. Unrelated to trickery, this is the first time we Third Knight Corps have been personally instructed. 」 「 But it is understandable, the event in the castle may have had a large influence on Imeraria-sama. Neither the Prince nor the Queen have recovered, only Imeraria-sama is working hard to manage the current conditions. 」(Pajou) Seeing the two Knights trying to correct his impression of Imeraria, even though they were afraid of offending him, Hifumi felt at ease. 「 Very well then. I accept the compensation from the princess out of respect for her loyal and hardworking Knights. 」 Saying so, Hifumi received the medal indicating his Associate Knight’s title from Pajou. 「 Talking to you, there is no time to relax. 」 (Pajou) 「 Seriously. Watching from a distance is much easier. 」(Midas) 「 You won’t be bored. Right? 」(Pajou) Requesting agreement from Hifumi, Pajou smiled watching Origa nodd docilely, Kasha was wearing a cramped smile. Pajou’s smile froze at Hifumi’s next words. 「 However, methods like these won’t stop me. 」 Leaving the shop, Midas and Pajou separated from Hifumi, since the hotel and castle were in opposite directions. Outside the restaurant, there was another presence that seemed to be another Knight. 「 Midas, Pajou. 」 Hifumi, who called out to the Knights had a serious gaze. 「 Tell Imeraria to give up. Don’t even think about manipulating me. Make a move only after considering everything. Move your people as much as possible, and after collecting information, analyse it well. 」 (TN: I modified this line. Again, pinch of salt.) Turning away from the two nodding Knights, Hifumi began to walk towards the hotel with the two slaves. The sun had completely set, relying on Origa’s magic to form a light, they advanced along the dark road. 「 Master, what is the significance of your words some time ago? 」 , thinking such, Hifumi answered Origa’s question. 「 Obtain information from everywhere, watch the enemy’s patterns and think of various possibilities to avoid defeat. Politics and fighting are very similar. Misunderstanding my own strength may lead to everything ending in an instant. 」 Suddenly understanding something, Origa was lost in thought. 「 What? With master’s strength, a thought like that is just too modest. 」(Kasha) 「 Fool. I’m also a normal human being. Attacked unawares, anyone will die when cut. You or me, nothing is different. Only the results of great effort can be shown without carelessness. 」 Even if that is the case, will Hifumi really die on being cut? Even injuring him is unimaginable. 「 We will go out of the town tomorrow morning and practice. I will continue coaching you two after seeing your movements and growth. 」 「 Yes, thank you very much. 」 Origa bowed happily, while Kasha wore a tired expression. In his room at the hotel, Hifumi was experimenting with his Darkness Magic. First testing the storage, the bed was completely stored and then retrieved. Are living things no good? Trying to store a fly on the wall, it hit the Dark Hole like an obstacle. Hifumi’s attempt to enter it was also a failure. It felt like there was an invisible glass wall preventing entry. Changing the idea and thinking of an image in which his arm was wrapped by the Darkness Magic, his arm disappeared from sight. Wrapping his whole body in the Darkness Magic, isolated from sight and sound, he could not confirm he was completely hidden, since there was no one else present. Repeating the experiment while thinking of any possible uses, thinking of using other magic, were the methods and aptitude different? Come to think of it, Origa has her staff, and that Strauss in the Marquis’ place generated magic with a knife. It seemed necessary to properly study magic, thought Hifumi. A lot of enjoyable things to do. A fun life. Satisfied, Hifumi finished up his practice, and crawled into the bed. 「 For a while, I will firmly train those two. 」 Excited with the prospect of having pupils, Hifumi went to sleep.

Once he confirmed the soldiers in the surroundings scrambling to retreat from the direction of Horant with the person appearing to be the general of the enemy having fallen off the horse, Ma Carme took a deep breath and sighed. “Haaa. It’s fiiiinally over.” (Ma) While the messenger let the tension escape from his shoulders in the same way, he noticed that the soldiers around them also showed expressions of relief. Just because they are more or less accustomed to the battlefield, it doesn’t change the fact that they are afraid of fighting as well. “Since we will stay here for one hour and stand on guard, each of you, take some rest in turns. Once one hour has passed, we will enter Horant and give our report.” (Ma) No sooner than he had said that, Ma Carme lied down on the ground. “Ah, I’m worn-out. I dun’ wanna do somethin’ as scary as war in a place where Lord-sama ain’t present.” (Ma) The messenger also said down next to Ma Carme who laughed frivolously. “Is Earl Tohno-sama that powerful?” “It ain’t at the level of bein’ powerful or such. That man is the same as a military force. If ya see that man on the enemy’s side, I believe it will be the correct choice to leave alone anything and everything to run away.” (Ma) “It would be completely proper to apply for a transfer request at the national army”, Ma Carme mentions. “That much...” “Ya probably also heard about the battle against Vichy, didn’t you? There are likely some parts that were somewhat exaggerated in the circulated rumours, but basically they are true.” (Ma) “But”, once Ma Carme rose his body and sat cross-legged, he hit the kusarigama at his waist and burst into laughter. “At the time I heard a bard singing a tale of a beautiful black-haired knight-sama in a bar of the capital, which I visited en route towards Horant, I couldn’t resist laughing.” (Ma) Ma Carme, who placed his hand on the messenger’s shoulder with a *pon*, shook his head in disbelief. “The real killing of other people ain’t somethin’ that pretty.” (Ma) Leaving the messenger, who couldn’t return any answer, alone, Ma Carme calls out to his soldiers in the surroundings and confirms that there are no injured. Once an hour passes while doing that, Ma Carme and the others quickly cross Horant’s national border. “Good grief, if I’m allowed to take a few days off, I will temporarily return to Fokalore. I wanna see Director Alyssa’s face soon.” (Ma) Accompanied by the messenger, who followed them while making sure to be the last one, Ma Carme and his soldiers passed through the border. The ones who waited there are completely armed infantrymen of Horant and Horant’s prided magic soldiers. Seeing several spear throwers, which were brought in by Ma Carme’s group for training purposes, obviously aiming at them, Ma Carme squinted. “... Let me ask for the time being, but what’s the purpose of these?” (Ma) Once seen, the soldiers, who manned the spear throwers, show a cowering appearance without matching Ma Carme’s line of sight as they are all soldiers who were trained by Ma Carme’s unit. In contrast to that the magic soldiers prepared their daggers in a state of frenzy in order to release magic at any time. “Oh my, thanks for your troubles.” A single, corpulent middle-aged man steps forth from in-between the infantrymen and the magic soldiers while holding his sides with laughter. “It looks like the strength of those spear throwers is magnificent. By no means, to have that kind of a large army cave in with just soldiers... We appreciate having received such weapon.” “It seems you are misunderstanding something, but as those are tools we brought along for the sake of our teaching unit, we have no intention to go home while leaving them here. If you want them, it will be just fine if you make them yourself, won’t it?” (Ma) “The ones misunderstanding are you bastards.” The middle-aged man, who cleared his throat unnaturally, puts his arms behind his back with an intention to throw out his chest, however Ma Carme’s group’s sight it can’t be seen as anything but him pushing out his belly no matter how they looked at it. “Orsongrande’s soldiers came to attack our Horant. As it’s only natural to use what’s usable, it’s just a matter of course to use these here for self-defence, isn’t it? Let’s call this an emulation of a battlefield, shall we?” Even while feeling irritated due to the gaze as if looking down on them with a “Fufu”, Ma Carme calmly surveys the vicinity. “I’m called Kuzemu and am serving as prime minister of this country, Horant. It’s unnecessary for you to remember it though.” (Kuzemu) Affirming that they are literally in a situation of being partially surrounded, he turns a fleeting glance towards his back, but there are no soldiers of Orsongrande who are looking this way. However, there are no soldiers from Horant that will become a nuisance either. It seems they haven’t surrounded them completely out of fear of accidentally shooting each other with magic or the spear throwers. “Well, I guess it’s a misunderstanding. We held back the lot, who came attacking Horant, at the border. You probably know that as well. There’s no need to take a stance of intercepting anymore either.” (Ma) The infantry soldiers, who were manning the spear throwers, turned their looks at Kuzemu due to Ma Carme’s words. But, Kuzemu laughed scornfully. “If it’s about an invasion, it has happened already. Ignoring the sovereignty of our country, soldiers of Orsongrande have thrown their weights around in Horant’s capital while looking as if they owned the place and in addition treated our soldiers completely like their subordinates. And.” (Kuzemu) Kuzemu pointed below Ma Carme’s feet. “Aren’t even now soldiers of Orsongrande rudely setting their feet on the soil of our country?” (Kuzemu) “Wait!” (Ma) Due to Kuzemu floating a faint smile, one largely built middle-aged man called out while pushing his way through the soldiers. He has likely a high status, but that can also be perceived from his luxurious attire, which had golden threads inlays. The scary face, which harboured an imposing moustache, exposes his anger as he yells. “What’s this about, Kuzemu-dono!? Moving the soldiers without the permission of the king and moreover threatening the soldiers of Fokalore, who are cooperating with us...” “The king is absent, therefore I have moved them like this on behalf of our country as prime minister.” (Kuzemu) “The authority to move the soldiers lies with me, the Minister of Military and Naval Affairs!” “The Minister of Military and Naval Affairs is appointed for the “time when a king’s designated.” Differing from me who is the prime minister, your title holds no meaning now that the previous king, Suprangel, has passed away.” (Kuzemu) “Then, until there’s an order from Nelgal-sama, who is nominated as his successor...” Due to the former Minister of Military and Naval Affairs being unable to continue his words as he is shocked, Kuzemu finished them for him. “That’s right. Until there’s an order from Nelgal-sama who is on his way back, I will work as his representative.” (Kuzemu) “S-Such a thing...” “That’s how the law is.” (Kuzemu) During the time Kuzemu quarrelled with the minister, Ma Carme addressed the messenger in a whisper. “Once I give you the signal, jump on your horse, pass the border and inform Earl Biron about the state of affairs. Since you likely won’t have the spare time to care-freely chat with the border guards, dash along the highway while ignoring them.” (Ma) “Eh, t-that is...” “Don’t say anything unnecessary. Only think about accomplishing your job as messenger.” (Ma) Once he told him sternly without allowing any opposition from the messenger, Ma Carme made an eye signal to the other unit members. The soldiers nod while smiling. “Convey our great efforts properly.” “You have to praise our bravery in front of Director Alyssa.” There’s no tragic feeling in the words spoken by several. “Did you hear? You are also an important messenger who will report our virtuous appearance. Once you got Earl Biron’s permission, go to Fokalore. And once you told 「Your subordinates are the best」 to Director Alyssa, it will be fine.” (Ma) The messenger, who was kicked in the butt with a “go”, jumps on his horse while crying. “Don’t let him get away!” (Kuzemu) “Stop him! It will become a big problem!” Noticing the movements, Kuzemu raised his voice and the minister spoke up even louder. Only one spear is shot from among the bewildered soldiers and a few spells come flying. “Oraa!” (Ma) The single spear was aimed at the back of the messenger, but it dropped down after being hit by the sickle swung by Ma Carme. Fokalore’s soldiers kicked over the the platform wagon at once turning it into a wall to protect them against the spells. “Guaah” “Uooh?” Even so, two soldiers, who couldn’t get behind the protection in time, were cut by wind magic and collapsed while spouting blood. Moreover, one person, who got away from the wagon which was burned by a fireball, faints being hit by a pellet against his head. “Come on, attack us without holding back! It ain’t to the degree of Lord-sama, even I will show you how stylishly I can fight! It would be the best if it were in front of Director Alyssa but as this place is a battlefield, it can’t be helped!” (Ma) Ma Carme, who spoke sharply while rotating the weight after setting up the kusarigama, laughed as if completely not noticing them being outnumbered. ☺☻☺ “I wonder whether I shall let this decorate the reception at the first floor until the time to use it comes.” (Hifumi) “No, no, Hifumi-san. That is, a bit...” (Alyssa) Alyssa, who looked at the freshly severed head of Balzephon which continues to spill soundless grudges while flapping its mouth open and shut, searched for words to prevent Hifumi’s suggestion after murmuring an “Ueeh.” “It continues to move even without any motive power. I think it’s just right for watching it while wasting time waiting on one’s turn, isn’t it?” (Hifumi) “I don’t think so! Don’t you think that everyone will end up not approaching this place out of fear?” (Alyssa) The two people, who are talking in front of the freshly severed head at the entrance of the lord’s mansion, were unapproachable in various meanings. One of those is the existence of that suspicious, monster-like freshly severed head, second is the person, who is the top-ranking man in this region hailed as feudal lord, and lastly the posture of Alyssa clinging to an arm of Hifumi. “Only Origa-san would accept that.” (Alyssa) “I see. Then it can’t be helped.” (Hifumi) Since he was apparently unable to store the head away as it was still treated as “living thing” albeit being able to toss the corpse from below the head into the magic storage, Hifumi had grabbed the head and was carrying it around in the open as is. But Alyssa, who closed the argument, called for a staff member and quickly wrapped the head in a cloth. The staff member in charge of the reception, who accidentally saw their exchange, fiercely vowed to thank Alyssa afterwards. “Anyway, with this the monster subjugation has finished, too. It looks like there were no significant movements even after coming back. I have to wait around again, huh?” (Hifumi) “Isn’t that fine? Hifumi-san, you are working too much, thus it’s just right for you to rest a bit at least. Lately there are new sweets stores in the city...” (Alyssa) Alyssa, who noticed something just when she was about to continue her words, separates from Hifumi’s arm, which she had seized as if embracing it, and took a distance of around one meter. At the same time, when Hifumi turns his face in the direction of the city due to a presence he knows, a carriage plunges towards the lord’s mansion raising a thunderous roar. “Ah, Origa, eh?” (Hifumi) “Oh, you came back? You took more time than expected.” (Hifumi) After the carriage stopped in front of the lord’s mansion while raising a cloud of dust, Origa directly leaped into Hifumi’s chest without any hesitation. Hifumi, who caught her and turned around while killing the momentum, turned his gaze towards Midas, who chased after her while making his horse gallop until it was drenched in sweat, without minding the enthusiastic embrace of Origa. “Oh, it’s been a while.” (Hifumi) “I-It has been a while, Earl Tohno.” (Midas) Obviously doing that always in front of a higher-ranking noble, Midas dismounted his horse and gave his greeting with a proper bow. It can’t be helped that his shoulders are heaving up and down. “What, did you act as Origa’s escort?” (Hifumi) “Such things are necessary... no, there’s that as well, but I have been appointed to the task of receiving Nelgal-sama as well.” (Midas) “Ah, yea.” (Hifumi) As Hifumi gave a vague answer, he splendidly ignored Origa who was talking about her loneliness and how dull her life without Hifumi in the capital was one after the other while clinging to Hifumi’s body. “And, considering that it could be used by you, Hifumi-sama, I bought beautiful porcelain plates and bowls, but as they were broken by idiots along the way, there is no more than only one piece remaining...” (Origa) Burying her face in Hifumi’s dougi while sobbing uncontrollably, Origa confirmed his smell in a casual manner and glared at Alyssa in a way that it couldn’t be seen by Hifumi. “Uhii!?” (Alyssa) “Alyssa, we will have a chat later. It looks like it’s necessary for us to slowly talk with each other in my room.” (Origa) During the time the chat between the women unfolded, Midas started to talk with Hifumi about something he wanted to ask. “Are you aware that a part of our country’s nobles plot to invade Horant?” (Midas) “Hmm. That’s the first time I heard about it.” (Hifumi) “That’s right, isn’t it? As a matter of fact, in order to oppose you, Earl Tohno, they are trying to obtain war achievements by attacking Horant whose king died...” (Midas) “What’s that about?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who sneered, stares at Midas. “So you are saying that you want me to take responsibility since there are idiots who are mimicking me.” (Hifumi) “T-Th-That’s out of the question! Her Majesty, the Queen, won’t approve of any begging towards you, Earl Tohno, for assistance regarding this case. Her Majesty has declared that she will resolve everything on her own.” (Midas) “That’s only natural. I can’t be bothered about each and every fellow who copies me in appearance only, can I? Rather than that, what kind of scale will that battle have?” (Hifumi) “It’s very likely that it will be ended by the knight order and the nobles of the queen’s faction, including Earl Biron, before long. The problem is the case if damages spread towards Horant, but...” (Midas) Alyssa, who listened to the talk at his side, grabbed Hifumi’s arm in panic. “Ma Carme’s unit should be in Horant!” (Alyssa) Due to Alyssa’s forehead looking up at Hifumi while asking “What shall I do?”, Hifumi gave her a forehead flick with his left hand which was covered by a glove. “Is there any need to ask me? If you consider them your enemies, then kill them out of your own will.” (Hifumi) “That’s how it is, Alyssa.” (Origa) Far from the gaze similar to threatening her until just now, Origa turned towards Alyssa with an affectionate smile completely similar to the Virgin Mary while placing her hands on the chest of Hifumi. “You decide your enemy. And once you decided your enemy, it’s about killing them without hesitation. That’s our way of doing things, right?” (Origa) After looking alternatively at Hifumi and Origa, Alyssa quickly bowed and ran off. Midas, who doesn’t wish for the battlefield to spread too much, watched that with unpleasant memories, but he had another important matter to settle in front of him. “Our task is to safely escort Nelgal-sama until Horant while guarding him. I’d like to meet with Nelgal-sama.” (Midas) “Mmh? Didn’t you meet him along the road?” (Hifumi) Hearing about Nelgal having already departed Fokalore from Hifumi’s mouth, Midas felt an impatience to a degree he had never experienced. “But, along the way we checked all the inns above a certain rank...” (Midas) “That’s very likely the reason.” (Caim) The one who replied towards Midas’ statement was Caim who left the lord’s mansion after hearing the sound of the carriage.magic “Welcome back, Lord-sama, Madam.” (Caim) “Caim-san, since there are souvenirs for everyone in the carriage, could you distribute them according to the notes attached on them?” (Origa) “Thank you very much for your concerns.” (Caim) “Please wait, “that’s the reason”, what the heck do you mean with that?” (Midas) Correcting his posture, Caim looked at Midas with an expressionless white face. “As Nelgal-sama prefers a simple lifestyle, he used part of his budget for buying materials for the sake of his studies rather than living in luxury. Even during his stay at this place he avoided the lord’s mansion, which he couldn’t consider as anything but a reward, and chose one of the city’s lodgings.” (Caim) “Then...” (Midas) “It’s very likely that he chooses to stay in cheap inns together with all of his guards along the way as well. If you, Midas-sama, checked only the inns which would be selected by nobility and wealthy merchants, it wouldn’t be a miracle even if you ended up missing each other.” (Caim) Midas felt a shock as if he was hit against his head. Loosing their calmness, the knights in the surroundings exchange looks with each other as well. “Luckily it’s no more than a few days since Nelgal-sama departed. As Nelgal-sama isn’t very proficient at riding a horse and since he hasn’t taken a carriage along either, you can catch up with him even still quite a bit before the capital, if you chase after him on horse.” (Caim) Midas, who was in chaos, suddenly raised his head due to Caim’s words and after thanking Caim and bowing towards Hifumi, he left together with his subordinate knights once they mounted their horses in a hurry. Once he ascertains Midas galloping away, Hifumi pondered with a “Hmm.” “Is there something bothering you, dear?” (Origa) “It’s Horant. I thought that only troublesome things will happen after the old man died, but this is...” (Hifumi) Observing the face of Hifumi who grins broadly, Origa displays an entranced expression. “The smell of people killing each other is drifting about.” (Hifumi) , rather than waiting for the demons to make their move, Hifumi considered throwing the state over there into confusion while looking happy. “I have just the right, great present to take to Imeraria. Let’s try showing my face in the capital after quite a while, huh?” (Hifumi) Due to those words Caim bowed and Origa was firmly determined to act together with him this time for sure.

It has become common knowledge within Orsongrande that black pupils and black hair are Hifumi’s characteristics. On the streets it’s popular to dye the hair black. At the same time, there is gossip, mixed with lies and truths, between nobles that he is an opponent they must never oppose (causing a Man’nen era)* Thanks to that, without him being stopped by anyone at all the cities he passed and having only the best inns being prepared for him at his destinations, he was seen off, at the time he left, by the feudal lords and people in charge no matter how early it was in the morning. Seeing these scenes, his fame among the populace was increasing with 「Earl Tohno is a hero recognised by everybody after all」. In any case, without having to do any work, he could toss things like food into his darkness storage in large quantities enabling him to reach the last stop of the highway. There is a fortress at the end of the highway facing towards the wastelands, where the soldiers are watching whether the beastmen are coming to attack. Although they gave Hifumi warnings to stop just in case, they didn’t attempt to unreasonably hinder him any further than that. “No trouble is always better.” (Hifumi) They weren’t interested in his rank overly much, but this was also very welcome and comfortable to him. He galloped through the wastelands in high spirits. The sun light in the wastelands is piercing. Though the air is dry it’s much hotter than being in a city? I’m not sweating that much though. For a while he continued in the open area, where only pebbles were scattered around, but after taking a break on the second day to sleep outdoors for a bit, he caught sight of something like a simple forest and a big boulder. Once he got there, he sporadically noticed small animals and monsters. Advancing while slaying the monsters, swooping down on him, in his spare time, he felt an observing gaze at the place he passed through at noon. “Well then, I wonder what kind of fellow I will get to see first?” (Hifumi) Opening his right hand as if he wants to draw his katana right away, he stuffs his cheeks with the sandwiches specially made by Origa using his left hand. Since she gave him a large amount just before he departed and given that there are still plenty remaining, he throws them one after the other into his mouth without care and drinks water from the flask. As the horse shakes its head, he brushes off the crumbs while laughing with a 「Sorry, sorry」. While advancing care-freely in that manner, there are presences at both sides, left and right, on his right hand side. Those slowly shortened the distance by weaving between the many trees close-by. There’s around meter distance to the forest, where many trees are densely lined up. Hifumi, who filled his stomach, got off the horse while being excited. Adjusting the position of his katana at his waist, he faces towards the direction of the presences lazily and walks there slowly. “I expressly came to this place. Let’s have some fun.” (Hifumi) Hifumi softly muttered under his breath and silently laughed. ☺☻☺ Although they are called wastelands, it’s not like the whole area has desolated, parched earth. There are also forest granting blessings at the level that each of the countless tribes can make a living by building settlements. Likewise there are branches of several large rivers. Tribes like those of the tiger and lion clans often clash in skirmishes with their fellow warlike tribes, which have high individual fighting strength. Those, who can fight more or less like the dog and the bird clans, are living while defending themselves in order to not get swallowed up by these battles. And there are also tribes, which don’t possess any special fighting strength while being in the wastelands. Their representatives are the rabbit and sheep clans. They live in the same group while being of different species. While travelling in order to hide from aggressive clans, they lived by obtaining the blessings of the forest. “Nee, nee, Helen. There’s a human being. I wonder, will it be alright... ?” The little girl, possessing dark horns, which were completely wrapped up in white, fluffy hair, talked anxiously to the little girl with rabbit ears, who is watching the situation next to her similarly hidden. Ahead of her view she saw Hifumi walking towards the forest on the opposite side of them. “Why are you worrying about a human? Won’t he kill us as well, if he discovers us?” (Helen) Although she turns her reddish-brown, almond-shaped eyes and blames her, the sheep girl with her drooping eyes went “But, but” with a half-hearted expression and appeared to not take her eyes off Hifumi. “Haa... anyway, let’s observe the situation. If there’s a corpse remaining, we might be even able to get something.” “Don’t say such scary things...” While they are talking, the human, visible at a distance, heads into the woods without hesitation. “What a fool. Something like approaching the woods defencelessly. It will end with him being attacked by the monsters or the tiger clan nearby.” “I’m somewhat scared...” (Reni) “It’s because Reni is a coward. ... They came!” (Helen) Due to Helen’s ears, she heard small footsteps, she had heard many times before, apart from Hifumi’s footsteps. They survived so far because they escaped at full speed once they heard those. “That guy is already done for. It’s the footsteps of the tiger clan.” (Helen) “Such a...” (Reni) “Listen, be quiet. If we are found by the tiger clan as well, it won’t finish with us only getting killed.” (Helen) Reprimanded by Helen, Reni, who held her tongue with a gulp, follows Hifumi with her eyes even while being frightened. “If they leave the luggage and horse, it will be a great haul.” (Helen) Even Helen, who murmured that in a small voice, motionlessly watched Hifumi’s movements. ☺☻☺ In an instant Hifumi’s sight spotted the small reptiles, who passed under his feet. The shadow, which jumped out of the thicket, headed towards Hifumi and came lunging in order to prey upon him. In an instant judging that the attack’s not the degree of him having to draw his katana, Hifumi dodged the extended claw aiming at his neck, caught the wrist and used the momentum to let the attacker fall towards the ground on its back. The enemy, on the verge of being slammed into the ground, escaped from the restraint by twisting its wrist and while quickly dodging, it stopped after having taken some distance. “... A tiger beastman, huh?” (Hifumi) The male tiger beastman, who wore simple clothes apparently made out of skin of other animals, grew fur, which has a characteristic pattern, on its entire body. He glared at Hifumi in absolute mortification. “What’s up? Are you finished?” (Hifumi) “Fuck! I thought it would be easy prey, but it became troublesome!” Wielding his arms, possessing sharp claws left and right, he persistently aims at Hifumi’s face and throat, but none of his attacks even graze its target. “Won’t the lot in the back assist you?” (Hifumi) “What was that!?” The moment he stopped his arms, the tiger is sent flying with a single kick into its belly and Hifumi told the presences, he felt in the forest, to come out. Once he looked at the mutual presences, man and woman, apparently the same as the tiger male, came out. “... Never did I expect to get sensed by a human.” A woman type with a long, slender and well-proportioned body walked out silently and looked at Hifumi with her arms folded. Keeping plenty of distance and making sure to not have a tree in the back, she takes care to be able to escape at once. In contrast, the male type was obviously irritated. Baring his fangs, he shouted at the fallen beastman. “Oy, Gafan! What are you rolling around in front of a human. Get up and kill him!” “I-I know!” (Gafan) “Humph.” Hifumi smoothly drew his katana and held it loosely. “Are you going to help him?” (Hifumi) “Don’t look down on me! I dun’ need any help for a single human!” (Gafan) Standing up, he once again brandishes his claws. Although he has raised the speed a little bit, it’s not enough to surpass Hifumi’s vision. Avoiding them with agility, the man called Gafan got impatient and raising a roar, he came grabbing. “What for?” (Hifumi) While complaining, he passes under the left armpit while striking at the torso in a flash. Gafan, who was split in top and bottom, died while looking as if he couldn’t believe it. “Why is the second way of attack a grab? I was certain he would bite since you have your fangs. Lead your enemy around by making use of your footwork.” (Hifumi) “Ga-Gafan is...” “Tsk!” The two tiger beastmen, who saw Gafan’s death right before their eyes, prepared by extending their sharp claws while feeling shaken. “Oh, you feel up to it?” (Hifumi) “Yea, I will kill you!” It’s the male type, who came running earlier. No sooner than him coming in front of Hifumi, the entire upper half of his body shakes and his right hand come striking. It was a force that would shave off the flesh, if it hit, but Hifumi, stepping into his bosom by speeding up even more, lets him go past while quickly rotating. “Eh... ? This!” Due to Hifumi, who approached her from the front as is, the beastwoman swung down the claws of both her hands in a panic. At the time she was convinced of having caused many injuries in a vertical line on his face due to the perfect timing, both her arms slipped off. “Aaaaaaaah!” The beastwoman, rolling around in pain and scattering blood, had her life ended by her neck being sliced. “It’s not always true that they will come thrusting at the same speed.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, suddenly decelerating, only cut the downward-swung arms, but none of them was able to see through that. “You bastard...!” The ignored beastman trembles in anger and drips blood from his tightly grasped fists. “Do you guys have a village or town as well? Or are you living independently with a small number of people?” (Hifumi) Due to Hifumi raising questions nonchalantly, the beastman, who believed to be made fun of, leaped without answering. Hifumi lost interest in the way of him brandishing the right arm just as the ones before and muttering that he cut off the beastman’s right arm sending it flying. “Gaaaah!” Although not falling to the ground, the beastman, who pinned down the stump of his right arm, fell to his knee’s and breathed heavily. Hifumi’s eyes, looking down on him, showed the colour of disinterest.magic “P-Please wait! With your ability, you should be a good match for our boss! As I will help you...” Without being able to finish his words, his head dropped to the ground while still flapping its mouth and with a slight delay his body collapsed as well raising a cloud of dust. “Boss, huh?” (Hifumi) Deciding to move in order to meet that person soon, Hifumi’s look faced in the direction of the presences watching him from the thicket on the opposite side. “A-Amazing...” (Reni) The sheep beastwoman, Reni, frankly admired Hifumi’s strength, but Helen, being next to her, was drenched in sweat while her rabbit ears quivered. “This may be dangerous! Reni, let’s escape quickly!” (Helen) “Eh?” (Reni) “Hurry!” (Helen) As she got up leading Reni by the hand, the human has begun to move towards their location before she became aware of it. While suppressing the urge to act rashly, she strongly grabbed Reni’s hand while persuading herself to stay calm. She takes care to not make any noise with her feet as much as possible. She watches to not advance in a straight line. She makes sure to hide their figures in the shadows of the grove of trees. “Haa... Haa...” (Reni) She runs while eagerly remembering the methods of movement, she learned until now. Although she knows that Reni’s breath is going wildly, she must escape even if she has to drag her along. Diving under branches hindering their way, she firmly treads through the grass and jumps over stream-lets. “He-Helen...” (Reni) After looking in the direction, Reni was pointing at, while breathing heavily, she saw the figure of a person fiercely chasing after them. “What! A human is catching up with us!” (Helen) Even if it’s impossible to fight for her, she had confidence in her ability to run on foot, but even that confidence crumbled apart. “... Huh?” While circling around between the many trees, she lost sight of Hifumi’s figure. “D-Did we get away... ?” “At such time you have to earn more distance.” (Hifumi) Hearing the voice of Hifumi, who descended in front of them from atop a tree, Helen, whose tension reached a peak, collapsed as if a thread was cut. “Fainted, eh? Yes?” (Hifumi) I believe there’s no particular need to be afraid of me though “P-Please don’t raise your hand against Helen!” (Reni) Spilling tears and with her body shivering, Reni’s eyes are firmly staring at Hifumi. Hifumi, sighing a “Good grief”, stroke Reni’s soft hair. “I didn’t particularly chase you to fight against you. If you aren’t hostile towards me, I won’t kill you.” (Hifumi) “But, you killed the tiger people...” (Reni) “Ah, that’s because they started a fight with me.” (Hifumi) “It’s my own technique I thought up in order to defend myself as weak human”, Hifumi brags. With his air not being the same cold air like a sharp blade as until now, the sight of him happily talking overlapped with her elder brothers. “Really... is that so?” (Reni) “You don’t have to believe me. However, I only want you to tell me a little something. Leaving that aside, isn’t it better to do something about that person first?” (Hifumi) Looking the way Hifumi was pointing at, Helen’s lower body part was wet and the smell of ammonia was drifting about. “He-Helen!” (Reni) She tries to carry the fainted body, but she’s helpless due to her powerlessness. Having said that, if she went away leaving Helen as is, she might end up getting killed by monsters or other beastmen. “It appears to be difficult. If you like, I can help you?” (Hifumi) Reni, who displayed a delightful face upon his proposal, changed her mind once she saw Hifumi’s face. “But, bringing a human along...” (Reni) “If that’s case, it will be fine not going all the way. If we get close, you will probably be able to call for someone. In exchange, I will have you teach me various things about these wastelands.” (Hifumi) Reni looked at both, Helen and Hifumi, but apparently she couldn’t come up with another good option. Spilling tears, she bowed towards Hifumi. “Don’t be so afraid. It’s not like I want to eat you. On the contrary, here!” (Hifumi) Hifumi passed her baked sweets, he took out from his storage, with a toss and vanished from her sight in the blink of an eye after telling her to wait so that he could get the horse. Reni, who stared at the baked sweets, nibbled only a mouthful unable to resist the sweet fragrance. Making sounds of crunching, an involuntary smile leaks out due to the deliciousness spreading within her mouth causing her face to slacken. “It was great. Although a human, he seems to be a good person.” (Reni) Thanking her good fortune, she wrapped the remaining sweets in a cloth for Helen and stuffed them into her pocket.

Wrapped in the refreshing morning sunlight, a huge group of slightly dirty people were restlessly gathered. They were those who listened to Bifron’s call and exited the slums. Listening to Bifron, whose strength was recognized within the slums, and seeing his proof in the form of Torkemada’s corpse, a little less than people had gathered and followed the trash-filled street, and exited the slums. Although there were a lot of men as well, almost all the women and kids had come out. They didn’t have either the power or the intention to go against the lord. Bifron and his comrades who had been running around the slums for the whole night, were completely exhausted. But once they thought about what would happen from now on, their tension and sleepiness was blown away. “Good morning!” (Alyssa) Amidst the noisy conversations expressing their uneasiness, a loud cheerful greeting was heard. As he looked over, Bifron could see a young lady walking over, waving her hands. Behind her were many men and women looking like government officials, as well as several soldiers. “Old man, you and the rest of the people are those who exited the slums, right?” (Alyssa) “I’m the military director in this city, Alyssa. Hifumi told me that I’ll be here to receive you. I want the men over there, the women over there, and the kids, along with their mothers, over there.” (Alyssa) As she was giving instructions to Caim, Origa, and the other responsible people in order to quickly move along, a man stepped out from behind Bifron. “If this is a joke, listening to a small kid like you, I’m not laughing! Don’t make fun of us just because we’re from the slums!” It was the same man who first raised his voice in rage when Hifumi killed Torkemada. “Eh... But...” (Alyssa) “Considering Bifron’s face, just obediently get out of here. We don’t have any reason to get along with some kid’s play.” Drawing closer, Alyssa hesitantly looked behind her, and saw Origa give her a nod, as she stood with her arms crossed, with a daunting pose. “Uhh... There!” (Alyssa) Under the pressure of Origa’s gaze, Alyssa resolved herself and swung the tobiguchi she held in her hand. Swinging down, with her eyes relatively closed, the pointy end of the tobiguchi accurately pierced the middle of the head. “Like that.” (Alyssa) Standing aside Alyssa, Origa slowly talked to the frightened citizens. “The people going against our lord Hifumi’s intentions will be dealt with. As we aren’t planning on keeping unnecessary baggage, we need to deal with it. If you understand, then quickly move as we told you to.” (Origa) Within the ambiance not expressing either consent or refusal, even Bifron remained silent, while the men went towards their gathering place. “Alyssa, you did that well. There’s no need to listen to what guys like him are saying.” (Origa) “I wonder if that really was a good thing ...” (Alyssa) Origa gave a kind smile to Alyssa, who still didn’t have any self-confidence. “Have some self-confidence. You just dealt with one of Hifumi’s enemies, after all.” (Origa) “T-that’s right!” (Alyssa) They brought about a peaceful atmosphere, but the people around them looked at them with fear in their gazes. At this point, Hifumi came walking completely relaxed. “Oh, you’ve already started talking?” (Hifumi) “You’re slow, Lord.” (Myukare) As Myukare, who came with Alyssa, said that, Hifumi let out a big yawn. “I was talking with Pruflas last night and we got a bit excited, so it ended up being quite late. Don’t glare at me just because I overslept a bit.” (Hifumi) “Hifumi, leave this to us.” (Origa) “Yeah, I’ll leave it to you. Well then, I’ll be tidying up the rest. Alyssa, send some people to clean up around dusk.” (Hifumi) “Understood!” (Alyssa) So that’s the Lord? The residents from the slum were talking to each other. After Alyssa clapped her hands to get their attention and once again gave them directions, the remaining people quickly began to move. “Origa, as planned, the men will help Pruflas. The women will help the staff members, and you’ll be educating the kids.” (Hifumi) “Understood. You take care as well.” (Origa) Lightly waving his hand towards towards Origa who was doing an elegant bow, Hifumi went towards the road to the slums. “Hifumi, what exactly did you talk to Pruflas about?” (Alyssa) “About new weapons and war devices.” (Hifumi) Origa promptly replied to the question Alyssa muttered. “Weapons to use we have to make in a hurry and planning the work for the inhabitants of the slums. It was a talk about what has to be constructed in preparation for the war.” (Origa) We left together the first thing this morning, so why do you know this? Alyssa thought to herself. But except having a bad feeling about it, she didn’t ask anything more. Just like what Origa for some reason knew, Hifumi had thrown a few new weapons into his dark magic storage. While walking down the trashy street, he withdrew one of them. It was three, centimeter long iron rods, connected with chains. A so called three-section staff. Just like the chigiriki, it could be connected to become one long staff. But sadly, the mechanism in the chigiriki had quickly broken, so it was made simpler in this weapon. In order to raise the deadliness of the staff, the metal ends were sharpened. Breathing through his nose, and squinting his eyes because of the bright sun, Hifumi entered the slums, aimlessly wandering around its dirty streets, searching for any anyone’s presence. Suddenly, he stopped in front of an old house and kicked down the front door. Stepping inside, he found a bearded old man lying down in the dark. The smell of alcohol filled the air. “Ah, what’s this?” Whether he was drunk or just half-asleep, the old man’s eyes were flickering around before Hifumi thrust the pointy end of his staff into the old man’s throat. “Ghue.” The old man died without making any sound. Confirming that the staff’s pointy end didn’t break after hitting the neck bone, Hifumi was satisfied, as he went towards the next house. As he disposed of a few more people in a similar way, making sure that the staff was easy to use, he saw a group of men gathered on the road. Upon sighting Hifumi, the men raised their weapons and started shouting. “Did you say you were going to deal with us, brat!?” “Swinging around that weird stick, who do you think you are!?” They look just like some countryside delinquents, Hifumi thought, as he let out a chuckle. “I’m the Lord. It’s fine if you don’t remember that, though.” (Hifumi) There were of them. Hifumi rushed over to the guy who spoke first, in the middle. With a swing like he was playing golf, he drove the staff into the other guy’s crotch. With a sound like something was crushed, the guy died in shock. “Hii....” The man next to him let out a scream as he witnessed the scene. Letting his hands go of the staff, Hifumi withdrew a jitte from his within his breast pocket. It wasn’t the cross kind, but rather the kind the policemen during the Edo period used. It was an about centimeters long rod of iron, with a pointy end. As they didn’t have the right materials, there was no tassel, to Hifumi’s disappointment. Thrusting the jitte in his right hand with an overhand grip, he intimidated the nearest guy. “W-what will you do with such a short...” While he was saying that, Hifumi stabbed the jitte into his kneecap, not given a chance to scream before his neck was snapped with a foot. Hifumi deflected a sword incoming from the side with his right hand, before hitting the attacker’s chest like a hammer. A dull vibrating sound was heard as the man dropped the sword, and feebly fell down on the ground. Jumping towards one of the men who stepped back in fear, Hifumi thrust the jitte into his left eye, then using the handle in the left hand to send him flying with a hit to the back of the head. “3 guys left, huh?” (Hifumi) “W-wait a second! I was opposed to this kind of... Hiii!” Closing in on the frightened man barehanded, Hifumi snatched his arm and pulled him down on the ground with his face down, before before strongly trampling down on the back of his head, crushing it. As the man stopped moving after having his head crushed on the hard ground, Hifumi let go of his hand and pulled out his favourite kusarigama. “Y-you beast!” “Who’s a beast?” (Hifumi) Shifting his position, Hifumi knocked down the desperately attacking man with his leg, ignoring him as he fell. Another person hesitatingly poising with a sword attacked, clinging to Hifumi, pushing him down. The moment he was pushed down, Hifumi used his body weight to drive the sickle into the man’s heart, ending his life. Looking at Hifumi slowly standing up having his face dyed red with blood stains, the fallen man wasn’t able to get up any more. “W-waah...” Being affected by the blood-soaked sickle held by Hifumi as he slowly approached, the man was frozen in fear. Like he was cutting grass, Hifumi slashed with the sickle, and the last person died. “Hmm....” (Hifumi) Picking up the dropped weapons, Hifumi checked them all. “Aah, it’s bent.” (Hifumi) The jitte he had thrust through into an eye socket, piercing the cranium has some brain matter stuck to it, which he wiped off with some paper. Looking at it closely, it was slightly bent due to the impact when he struck with it. “It really bent ... It was meant as a test, but I guess stuff like this happens.” (Hifumi) Cleaning the weapons he used, and putting them away into the storage, Hifumi was hungry, so he left the slums to find a food stall to get some food. After eating, he returned to the slums, he aimlessly walked around until dusk, disposing of another 30 or so people. They were mostly rash young men who had confidence in their skills, but none of them managed to even wound Hifumi. In the time he continued the stroll of slaughtering while being bathed in blood, with the exception of the already broken jitte, he also tested out the three-section staff several times. Since the basics of thrusting and also the basics of the katana’s hassou, for such things as cutting at the lower leg and shaving off, were entirely on his regular practice menu, it flowed gently and was easy to use. ( Having almost finished moving through the whole area of the slum, Hifumi felt a strong thirst for blood, as he took a step to the side. With a sound of cutting through the air, an arrow lodged into the inside of a run-down house. Turning around, a man was preparing to shoot another arrow. He was two meters tall, holding a huge bow that he was drawing to the very limit. Feeling happy about being ambushed, Hifumi displayed a smile as he drew his katana. “So you’re the last one. With your huge frame, archery isn’t the only thing you’re good at, right?” (Hifumi) The man looked at the club hanging on his waist, but without responding to the provocation, he aimed a second arrow at Hifumi. With the katana in an underhand grip, Hifumi put the katana in front of him as he lowered his body. It was an old stance he was taught a long time ago by his master, which was used against arrows. It was the first time he used it in actual combat, however. (It’s a stance limiting the area he can hit, then defending with the katana) (Hifumi) Trying it out in reality, Hifumi was quite tense, so he deliberately relaxed his arm a bit. Moving the katana on reflex, a broken arrow fell down by his feet with a dull sound. “What!?” As the man didn’t think Hifumi would be able to knock down the arrow, he opened his eyes wide, not drawing another arrow. Hifumi used that moment to shorten the distance, and just as if making a paint stroke, he slashed at the man with the katana. The man threw down his bow and made an evasive roll. Doing that, the man grasped the one meter long wooden club at his waist and alertly put himself into position. As far as Hifumi was concerned, this was a satisfying opponent. “Nice, nice. You’re different from those other idiots.” (Hifumi) “... You’re a monster.” Facing the loudly laughing Hifumi as he quickly changed the underhand grip on the katana to an overhand one, the man made a bitter face. “I’m just a normal person who put forth a great amount of effort.” (Hifumi) If you asked 10 people who knew Hifumi, 15 would tell you otherwise. The man was silent as he swung down the club, but Hifumi steadily retreated, avoiding the blow.magic While the man was brandishing the club above his head, Hifumi slipped in below his stomach, and tackled the man with the shoulder, making him fall. It made a dull sound, but the man still unsteadily stood up. “You’re quite sturdy, aren’t you?” (Hifumi) “You and your strange movements......” Cracking his neck with a flushed face, the man once again readied his club. “You were alright with the bow, but the way you’re swinging the club is dull and boring. Don’t you have anything else?” (Hifumi) “You!” As the man approached with vehement vigor without affirming nor disagreeing, Hifumi started to get tired of him. Hifumi then remembered something else Pruflas had prepared, and withdrew it from his storage, sprinkling it on the ground. “Huh!? Aaaah!” “As expected, you couldn’t bear this.” (Hifumi) Avoiding the caltrops covering the ground, Hifumi gently thrust the katana into the heart of the man, as he had fainted in agony. “It was the first time I’ve used it, but it could be nice to use once in a while. It reduces the tension, though.” (Hifumi) He gathered the scattered caltrops. “... Gathering them is a pain ...” (Hifumi) After collecting all of the caltrops and returning them to his dark magic storage, he realized he could’ve just opened a hole on the ground and directly collected them into his storage, and felt a bit sad about it, as he returned to the Lord’s mansion. Thus, the slums that had been a garbage heap in Fokalore since forever, had been emptied of inhabitants in just one day. Because Origa and the five slave civil officials put the gathered manpower from the slum to their best use, Fokalore quickly underwent a change. Thanks to the manpower from the slums, the rails reaching Arosel had been finished, so they started testing it by sending goods and people. The city’s outer wall was also reinforced, and the entrances facing both royal capital, and the one facing Arosel were improved. The women from the slums initially received a cold shoulder from the city’s residents, but as they worked hard with cleaning up the city and collecting household garbage, the inhabitants generally came to accept them. Just being the feudal lord, Hifumi left all the decision making to the civil officials only making a rough draft for this project and occasionally confirming the progress. Alyssa also didn’t approach the governmental operations excusing herself with the words 「I don’t quite understand.」 The number provided to help out from the territorial army decreased as well as they were worked to death at combat training according to Hifumi’s and Miyukare’s instructions. Naturally, as the style of receiving the instructions from Hifumi and assigning the work following those became established for Origa, some amongst the residents misunderstood Origa to be Hifumi’s wife. But there were also some thinking the feudal lord is a woman. With Hifumi himself doing only the minimum of necessary document signing, his daily life basically started with finishing the morning practise and no sooner than after taking a hot bath he went missing without anyone noticing. Today being the same, Hifumi vanished from his office going on a trip under the pretext of test running the arrival of the rail car at Arosel and eliminating the monsters along the highway on the occasion. “Today he is absent as well?” (Caim) The civil official slave Caim, known for his notorious “impudence” amongst the staff members, muttered without a change in his expression seeing Kasha house-sitting in Hifumi’s office. “Caim-san, huh? I came to this room right at the moment when he departed.” (Kasha) “Can you do me favor of detaining him a bit? It would be a great help.” (Caim) “Don’t ask the impossible.” (Kasha) With a face where you didn’t know whether he was laughing or crying, Caim left the office silently after looking at Kasha for a short while. As if replacing him, Origa entered. Origa noticing there was no one but Kasha inside the room, she tried to leave the room right away, but Kasha stopped her by calling out to her. “Origa, if it’s Hifumi-san you want to speak with, I can hear you out.” (Kasha) In difference to Caim, her face showed that she suppressed something she wanted to say. “... No. After Hifumi-sama has returned, I will tell him directly.” (Origa) Then, Origa, who was about exit the room, once again stopped. “Kasha, since you are a guard, even if only in name, how about doing a little bit of training? Because we can expect a large-scale battle with Vichy very soon going by the reports from the scouts, come and participate in the training to see how Alyssa has arranged the territorial army to move.” (Origa) After spitting out in one go what she wanted to say, Origa left without delay. “Battle, huh?” (Kasha) There was a small magic tool within the pouch hanging on Kasha’s waist. Although it was something simple, broken into two pieces and being separated from the other half, it was a quite expensive tool used for the purpose of communication in emergency. For the time being it was something with the purpose of come running in case Hifumi was in danger with the ostensible reason of being able to search for him, but in reality it was obvious that the princess and Pajou intended to assassinate Hifumi in the confusion of the battle. But, will it be only Hifumi that will die in the situation after using this? Kasha stared at the door through which Origa left for a long time.

“That’s not my job.” (Hifumi) Having enjoyed to his heart’s content the luncheon with Imeraria in the royal castle he visited together with Origa, Hifumi listened to her request while drinking an after-meal black tea and quickly refused it. “What’s the deal with the coach standing out even at the real deal? Besides, what I’m currently teaching them are techniques for interpersonal combat. I think that the knight folks have plenty of experience with methods of escorting others while cooperating with each other.” (Hifumi) “Uuh...” (Imeraria) Having logic thrust at her, Imeraria was unable to go on with her persuasion. Imeraria didn’t overlook how Origa, who watched the situation, revealed a faint smile. “If you believe your own army to be lacking, you just have to make Fokalore send soldiers. There’s also no need to especially move a large number of people from the capital.” (Hifumi) “But, an envoy from the capital not being present at the time of welcoming people from another country is...” (Imeraria) “Phyrinion is at the border, isn’t she? If you send a letter or something written by yourself and some knights as guards for her, it will keep up appearances, right?” (Hifumi) He requests a refill of black tea from the maid being in waiting and gently stabs the fork into the cake that had been provided. “Can you possibly dispatch soldiers from the Tohno Earldom then?” (Imeraria)magic “It will probably be fine if you give instructions to Phyrinion and while at it, have her negotiate,” he eats a slice of cake. “There’s no need to worry, Your Majesty. It’s not something Alyssa would decline. And it’s probably nothing that demands a particular reward either.” (Origa) As if throwing a lifeline, Origa spoke up to Imeraria who’s in confusion. “But, if you could concern yourself with Alyssa a bit so that she’s allowed to get used to the kingdom’s nobility...” (Origa) “Yes, that’s no problem.” (Imeraria) Originally Alyssa is a foreigner as person from Vichy. Although it’s not unusual for merchants to pass back and forth between countries, it was unprecedented for a single soldier to convert to another country and to even become a noble heir. Since Hifumi’s influence is still going strong, there’s no public opposition, but as soon as Hifumi’s influence fades after his retirement, Alyssa won’t be able to elude a strong backlash by the citizens and nobility if she makes some kind of blunder. “Since Alyssa-san is close to me in age, I’d like her to come to the royal castle as friend. I will also provide education in Orsongrande’s etiquette to her.” (Imeraria) “Thank you very much for your kind consideration.” (Origa) Imeraria immediately understood Origa’s true motive behind relying on her in regards to Alyssa. If their plan goes smoothly, Origa will be sealed together with Hifumi. Even though excellent civil officials will still be left afterwards, she’s probably anxious. While being careful to not show it on her face, Imeraria is nervous in front of the big task of negotiating with the demons. Hifumi opens his mouth, “You don’t have to worry about Alyssa’s lodging. I will stay here. Once Vepar arrives, call me. After all we are no strangers.” (Hifumi) “Just what did you do in the demon’s country...?” (Imeraria) “Just a little sightseeing tour. You can employ Viine if you are going to send a letter to Fokalore.” (Hifumi) Viine has gone out to sightsee the capital together with Puuse since the morning. Since she said that she’s going to grab lunch outside, she likely intends to return in the afternoon. “Understood. I will immediately prepare the necessary documents. How is the progress of the knights?” (Imeraria) “Because their bodies were trained, it’s easier than teaching amateurs. I was really troubled with training Origa.” (Hifumi) “P-Please don’t talk about that. Even I’m embarrassed about the events back then, so...” (Origa) The voice of Origa, who casts her eyes down with a bright red face, is frail and delicate, lacking its usual pressure. Imeraria was aware of Origa receiving training from Hifumi right after he came to this world due to the reports from the Third Knight Order. She didn’t feel anything at all back then, but being now shown that exchange in front of her eyes makes her quite angry. After clearing her throat to gloss over that emotion, Imeraria takes a sip of the completely cold black tea. “Hifumi-sama, is it alright for me to ask a question, too?” (Imeraria) As usual Hifumi’s expression had a faint smile making reading his mind impossible, but Origa, who’s next to him, stares at Imeraria with a somewhat tense feeling. “Hifumi-sama’s...no, what kind of world is the ideal world you are imagining, Hifumi-sama?” (Imeraria) “I’m still inexperienced as statesman. I’m well aware of that. I’m royalty, but it’s not like I received education in that direction. ...Honestly spoken, I’m only doing things ad hoc as I haven’t even decided the shape I’m planning for Orsongrande.” (Imeraria) Since a war started, I dealt with it. Since a problem with Horant occurred, I dealt with it. Since the demons attacked, I dealt with it. And, after sensing the possibility of Hifumi’s existence jeopardizing the reign by royalty, I will deal with it. So what am I going to do beyond that? What kind of country am I going to rule after eliminating Hifumi and restraining the demons’ threat? She had postponed that while being swept away by her busy days. At the coronation ceremony she carelessly stated, “I have the obligation to create a good country, where everyone can live in abundance. It’s my mission to build a country that allows them to believe that protecting it was worth it,” to the population. That’s no lie, but if she thinks back on it now, those are empty and embarrassing words. “The ideal world, huh? That’s really simple. A world where everyone can do whatever they want to do.” (Hifumi) Upon those words, Imeraria at first considered it to be an unexpectedly normal answer. But she immediately realized her own error. “Everyone, that’s impossible, isn’t it?” (Imeraria) Simply put, Imeraria’s wish and Hifumi’s wish run counter to each other. A peaceful, world with no disputes as desired by her and a world that keeps evolving through dispute as desired by Hifumi; neither of those two can come into existence. “I guess. That’s how meaningless it is what you are trying to accomplish.” (Hifumi) Draining the refilled tea, Hifumi stands up with the words “The lunch was delicious,” and quickly leaves. Origa, who stood up likewise, called out to the bewildered Imeraria. “Your Majesty. Desiring anything and everything like you do is foolish. That’s what he meant. I was taught the expression Circling around the table, Origa looked down on the queen. “You are trying to achieve peace for the country by abandoning Hifumi-sama. Since you have already decided to cut him off, demonstrate a resolve befitting that, please. Otherwise it will result in you losing everything.” (Origa) Origa exits the room at a quick pace, chasing after Hifumi. Being left behind, the queen was lost in thoughts for a while by herself. Then she headed to her office in order to prepare the documents. Her aura at that time was so intense that it didn’t let anyone get close to her. ☺☻☺ “Don’t you think that such important task isn’t the job of a retired knight?” (Phyrinion) At the time the letter from Imeraria reached Phyrinion, being passed on from Caim who received it from Viine, it had been copied on a sturdy, thick parchment, obviously usable even as a document certifying a mission. Comprehending the instructions to be used for that important task, Phyrinion felt her stomach getting heavy like lead. “It’s such an important job? As expected of you, miss...madam. Even after having retired, the trust in you by Her Majesty is still running deep.” “The location was simply bad.” (Phyrinion) As she keeps on reading the instructions, the discomfort in her stomach transforms into pain. There are two major orders for Phyrinion. Monitoring the ruler of the demons and guiding them to the capital. In an enclosed memo was written, “Given that I’m requesting Alyssa’s cooperation, coordinate your actions with her.” “Somehow it feels different from usual.” (Phyrinion) Phyrinion felt uneasy towards the written details rather than the content of the letter. The signature is definitely authentic, and since the sealing is something that can only be used by the queen, the possibility of it being a fake is low. “Different, you say?” “Hmm...how to express it? It has the feeling of “It’s a trifle change, isn’t it?” Phyrinion smiled at Clinora, but in her mind she was scared as she became aware of a different observation. (If she uses a retired knight, the royal castle’s forces won’t be whittled down, even if the demons go on a rampage in worst case. Taking it a step further, she can even aim for a decline among the forces of the Tohno Earldom that boasts a higher military power than the royal castle...? This is definitely not the idea of Her Majesty.) It’s said that the person appearing to be a demon, who brought the letter, withdrew without entering combat. There’s also the possibility of them lacking combat power, but the act of them simply choosing to escape without trying to hurt anyone means they are truly desiring a discussion, doesn’t it? “...Though that’s no more than expectation based on hope. Clinora.” (Phyrinion) She stands up from the chair and curls up the letter. “I will go consult with Margrave Alyssa Tohno. Can you choose my clothes and accessories for the sake of welcoming the demons’ queen-sama at your own discretion?” (Phyrinion) “D-Demons?” (Clinora) “Indeed. Although I think that it’s no more than a honorific task, I will become a mediator, so I beg you as it will also place a burden on you, Clinora. If there are no good dresses and accessories among my things, go and buy them in Fokalore.” (Phyrinion) Leaving the words, “Take all the guards along and make sure to take a breather with everyone while you’re at it,” Phyrinion headed toward Rhone’s temporary town hall. “Caim-san, what do you think?” (Alyssa) “It’s a request by Her Majesty. I think it will be difficult to decline it. Also, only Fokalore’s soldiers and a part of the border guards directly dealt with the demons. Since there are no other forces that can take over that task either, I think it’s adequate to assume you taking charge will be connected to obtaining an immediate achievement, Alyssa-sama.” (Caim) Following Phyrinion’s visit, Alyssa decided to hold a discussion using the council room. Caim and Miyukare are attending in addition to Phyrinion and Alyssa. (For him to have come to Rhone...) Phyrinion felt slightly uncomfortable due to Caim, who should have stayed back in Fokalore, being present. “Sometimes it’s necessary to personally check the territory’s state of affairs. I have scruples to leave it all to my subordinates.” (Caim) “...I haven’t said anything!” (Phyrinion) Caim suddenly explains as if having read her mind. If I’m completely honest, it’s the same with my husband too, but even if I can comprehend that Caim’s excellent, he has too many shady parts. Though it’s an impression slightly influenced by the grudge of having been previously forced to study to the extent of her losing weight. “It could also be a trap, right? Though I don’t want to split up the guards too much.” (Miyukare) As the one in charge of military affairs, Miyukare cannot avoid feeling anxious about there being an attack when the defenses have been thinned out due to them acting as sacrificial pawns for someone that called herself queen. “There’s no specification about the numbers in the request by Her Majesty. What kind of previous arrangements are to be used when welcoming the demons?” (Caim) “Basically Her Majesty told to me to do the fine-tuning myself and to report it to the royal castle. I wholeheartedly want to let the demons know about our schedule of welcoming them, but...I wonder if there’s any means to get in contact with them?” (Alyssa) “As for that, I have an idea. It would be easier if the madam was present, but...let’s leave the selection of the guards to Miyukare then.” (Caim) “How about limiting it to soldiers? What are we going to do about the traveling method?” (Miyukare) “There are sightings of demons riding horses. It’s very likely that they will arrive on horse this time. For our soldiers, it’s the platform wagons. The personnel will be split into horse riders and platform wagon passengers.” (Caim) It’s best to leave the soldiers to Miyukare and the comprehensive support to Caim. It’s me who has to approve it anyway. I will hear about the truly important matters from Caim. “Is it okay for me to go with them?” (Alyssa) “On the contrary, the option to not go doesn’t exist for you. It’s a mission similar to having received a royal command from Her Majesty the Queen. The family head not leading the forces as noble will set a bad example to other nobles.” (Caim) “I see.” (Alyssa) Looking at Alyssa nodding while saying, “I got it,” Miyukare stood up full of vigor. “T-Then, as support, I will also...” (Miyukare) “Miyukare, please stay back here.” (Caim) “Why!?” (Miyukare) “Who’s going to put the guarding soldiers in order during the absence of Lord-sama? You are here for that reason, right?” (Caim) Her state of gritting her teeth with an expression that made it all too obvious that she can’t agree with whats being said is the impersonation of the antonym of the word “Miyukare-san, please.” (Alyssa) “Understood...” (Miyukare) As she’s unable to say anything else after being told so by Alyssa, she feebly sinks back down on her chair. “That means it’s going to be a little less than in total with all the soldiers and chamberlains centered around Alyssa-sama and Phyrinion-sama? Let’s have several staff members accompany them as well. It’s not a bad thing for them to see the royal capital. And, I have a suggestion, Phyrinion-sama.” (Caim) “Eh? Ah, what might it be?” (Phyrinion) Phyrinion, who dumbfoundedly stared at things being rapidly settled in front of her eyes, reset her brain in a hurry after the conversation suddenly turned her way. “Since it’s such an occasion, how about having several elves and beastmen come along as representatives? As they are going to live on this land, they should probably be allowed to at least greet Her Majesty.” (Caim) “For you to say something so outrageous without hesitation...” Caim is implicitly saying to make the elves and beastmen help with the escorting. Having them help the country and creating an excuse to meet with the queen is for the sake of showing off their usefulness as subjects of this country. “According to what I heard, the elves have a history of having fought against the beastmen. Even the beastmen had disputes among the tribes in the wastelands. Won’t that serve as good advice?” (Caim) “Caim...you are coming up with dangerous ideas that are no different from the previous Lord.” (Phyrinion) “That’s amazing, isn’t it? It’s a really big help!” (Alyssa) Phyrinion’s remark towards Caim was unnecessarily cynic, but Alyssa apparently took it as genuine compliment. Once again Phyrinion’s stomach is exposed to stress. “Anyway, I will ask for Her Majesty’s opinion on this matter. So, what shall we do about the communication with the demons?” (Alyssa) “That’s simple. The demons have likely soldiers hiding to watch our movements on the other side of the border anyway. It will be fine if we throw a message with a weight attached at them.” Except for Phyrinion, all those present nodded with an “I see.” The former knight, who was worried about the way of treatment for letters between countries, seems to be in the minority in this place.

Nearby where they were eating, a young man approached Hifumi and co. He sported clothing resembling a merchant’s, with a refreshing smile on his face. 「 Heeey, long time no see! When did you get here? 」 Sitting down next to Hifumi in a friendly manner, he passed him a note unseen by others around. 「 The meal has already ended, huh. There’s a cafe nearby, how about it? 」 「 No, that is... 」 Not going along with the man’s tension, Hifumi placed the note on the table. 「 There’s no need for a performance. There are no suspicious people in the vicinity, so this kind of communication is unnecessary. Moreover, it’s meaningless since I can’t read. You’re from the Third Knight Corps yes? 」 「 Certainly, the memo says he is from the Third Knight Corps. 」 Origa read the memo placed on the table. As for the man, his smile slipped off, his precautions unnecessary. 「 Uu~, unable to read...... Then how did you notice I was a Knight? 」 「 Knights who receive training in marching walk in a manner different from normal people. 」 He was used to seeing it after Pajou and the others, and understood it immediately. 「 Then, what’s the important matter? You fellows disappeared after leaving the capital. It seems that you guys operate only within the royal capital, huh... 」 「 Th-This is the matter. 」 The Knight straightened up and introduced himself as Sabnak. As of now still an inexperienced Knight, concealed in Fukaroru on his own as an apprentice merchant. 「 Well, in the matter of Marquis, the target of my observation is Viscount Hagenti. Since you disappeared, there was a report distributed via messenger bird from the capital, to continue watching from here. 」 From the fact that a carriage was prepared for them, the person in charge of the tracking was going to have them followed while pretending to be a merchant in a mercantile caravan. However, since the carriage was immediately stored, and horses were used in leaving the capital, the trackers were left in the dust. Sabnak followed them, he acted as a lone pursuer since the concept of acting in a or person cell didn’t seem to exist here. Like the incident with Pajou, she wasn’t carrying weapons during surveillance. Was it normal for them to operate alone? 「We don’t have enough personnel. There are few applicants who wish to join the rd knights’ corps, all the excellent applicants aimed for the Castle duty of the First Knight Corps, and any applicants who boast their strength picked the Second Knight Corps.」 「Generally only nobles can enlist for the Knight Corps. Being patient and stealthily mingling with the commoners makes the Third Knight Corps’s job unpopular with the nobles. But, the Second Knight Corps only takes action in the event of a crisis, and the First Knight Corps doesn’t actually experience field work, so it is believed that the Third Knights Corps is the most useful in protecting the citizens. 」 「......So?」 Sounding considerably annoyed, Hifumi shut Sabnak up with a single word. 「What do you want? Your work is to monitor me, you’re not supposed to make contact with me, else the Third Knight Corps’ involvement will be revealed. 」 「Ah, please excuse me......」 Sabnak just realized that he was heated up, he bowed down while blushing. Remembering the un-knightly attitude of Midas and Pajou, Hifumi’s evaluation of them was “The Third Knight Corps is a gathering of strange fellows”. Sabnak who received instructions from the capital, turned towards the entrance in a hurry, but already in its place was spread a scene nothing short of a picture of a hell. Sabnak who looked directly at the familiar tragically scattered corpses, threw up gastric juices, he then pulled himself together and started searching for Hifumi. 「Honestly speaking, I want to capture Viscount Hagenti alive. There’s also the confession from the Marquis. The Marquis issued instructions only to suck up profits. Specifically, we still don’t know who’s moving them and how.」 In reality, the one who caused the incident in the feudal town was Viscount Hagenti, who was part of the Marquis’ faction. As for the knight corps, according to princess Imeraria’s instructions, thanks to Hifumi’s actions they can push forward with an investigation unrelated to him, without restriction. He spoke honestly. 「I don’t intend to bother or be hostile to you. To solve this matter and for Princess Imeraria to peacefully govern this country, we would like to receive your cooperation.」 Sabnak stood up and deeply bowed his head. Sabnak recalled the corpses of the soldier he saw earlier. There are also an unbelievable number of reports related to Hifumi circulating from the capital. Its said that, anyone hostile to him, be they a king or noble will be killed without mercy. members of the inner organisation were killed in a matter of seconds. Even without a weapon, he can lead knights by the nose bare-handed. If one’s words angers Hifumi, they will die where they stand. However, in order to improve this country as a knight, they absolutely had to deal with this matter and to sweep the surroundings of the royal family, he gambled on Hifumi. 「 ...... I don’t particularly mind. 」 At Hifumi’s words, Sabnak raised his head. 「 The Viscount does not particularly matter to me, but to Origa and Kasha, he is someone they want to take revenge against. I will talk to them and decide later. 」 Immediately after saying that, Hifumi stood up and left. The persuasion target having changed, Sabnak was completely bewildered, not to mention the two slaves that were abruptly entrusted with the decision. 「 Ah-..... For now, could I have some tea? 」 Sabnak called the shop assistant to gloss over his red face while thinking 「 derailed! 」embarrassedly. Kasha could not help laughing. 「 Puu~.... Sorry, it’s completely different from when you first called out to us. 」 「 No, it’s fine. I practiced passing over the note several times at the back of the building while fired up. I had a small illness when I was younger, so I am a little unskilled at these sudden things. 」(TN: due to his illness when he was young, Sabnak can’t easily cope up with sudden changes in a situation and gets flustered easily.) Sabnak said he was not good at meeting others for the first time. Being assigned here was also because few spies wanted to polish their skills alone in a different land. 「 I’m sorry, I’m rambling. Well, about the matter with the Viscount..... 」 「 Before that, could you tell me what information the Knight Order has on the Marquis’ faction? In case the Viscount is let free, if any other enemy can be killed, I may consent. 」 Sabnak thought about Origa’s words a little. 「To agree」or 「 To not agree 」. The positions of nobles and slaves, leaving aside comparing them, the chances of them sitting at the same table were virtually nonexistent. However, Sabnak reminded himself that Origa and Kasha were slaves of the “Slender sword Knight”. He felt an overpowering intimidation from Origa and Kasha, unthinkable of ordinary young women. 「 ...... I understand. Where shall I start explaining? 」 After waiting for his tea, Sabnak began to speak. At that time, Hifumi was aimlessly wandering the streets of the town. His katana casually hung on his waist. 「 I wonder what that is? 」 Towards the center of the town, there was a residence much larger than the ones surrounding it. Slowly drawing near, several soldiers ran out of the strong looking metal gate. The soldiers had ghastly appearances. Passing by Hifumi, they ran towards the town gate. Apparently, they were the response to the previous completely annihilated unit. 「 ...... So late. The guys watching were quite some distance away. As I thought, there’s probably another mode of information delivery. 」 Muttering to no one in particular, Hifumi approached the gate the soldiers had run out of. 「 ....... There’s no guards on watch. 」 It appeared that all military personnel had completely left for the scene. Hifumi entered in a stately manner, in spite of his amazement. The moment he placed his hand on the door of the mansion, he suddenly felt a sense of unease and jumped back from the door. A loud sound rang out, the wooden door fell to pieces. Looking into the doorway that was suddenly well-ventilated, a face was seen. 「 The guy in the Marquis’ mansion in the capital. If I recall correctly, your name was Strauss. 」 「 You remembered huh.... As I thought, I should have gotten rid of you back then... 」 There was a big hole from within the entranceway, Strauss fled back into the Marquis’ Mansion while holding out a dagger followed by preparing to use magic. Hifumi dodged without hesitation, and pulling back momentarily, ran around towards the side of the building while silencing his footsteps. 「Getting away?!」 He ignored Strauss’ husky voice and continued to run. I could sense people inside the building. Since Strauss is out here alone, is one of them the Viscount? So the remainder are the servants?...... No, I could sense someone on the second floor...... It’s Tamuzu. Why is he here? He remembered the young soldier that stood still as he watched all manners of death, the young soldier that was about to be killed by his colleagues. Hifumi had an unpleasant hunch so he looked up. At that instant, a maid who had opened the window to air the room saw him. He jumped up, grabbed the edge of the window with his left hand, and slipped his body into the window at the last minute. The maid was surprised and froze when he approached, she cracked a smile so he only gently hit the nape of her neck, knocking her unconscious. I’m sorry that there are no beds. He softly laid the maid’s body down, and after confirming there was nobody else in the hallway he went into the room Tamuzu was located in. He ran across the wooden floored hallway with considerable speed, you could only hear slight rustling of the clothes. It’s here. Among the doors that lined the corridor, he stopped in front of the one that was particularly significant. He could sense Tamuzu and another person behind it. Unable to hear anything, he silently opened the door and peeked through the gap. 「......I understand the report. All of the remaining personnel went out?」 「Yes. The Vice Captain lead all the remaining personnel and went towards the scene.」 Speaking to Tamuzu was a gentleman-like person with a refined voice. Peeking through the gap, the gentleman seemed to be in his 0’s, wearing brand new clothes with embroidery that identified with the aristocracy. He took something off of the shelves in front of Tamuzu after hearing Tamuzu’s report.magic That’s Viscount Hagenti over there huh.. 「However...... Commanding officer Guzafan was an accomplice, it is deplorable.」 「Regrettable...... That’s right, it’s regrettable」 Hagenti took out a sword. Holding the sword straight, it was 70cm long and had decorations for some kind of ceremony. The Viscount having turned his back towards Tamuzu, gazed at the blade of the sword carefully while drawing it out. 「It’s a serious crime. Many soldiers were lost. Well then, we should request a Knight’s investigation here...... 」 Apparently, it seems Tamuzu is complaining to Hagenti because the ringleader of the evil deeds was the lead soldier. Moreover, he proposed getting the country to intervene. That guy is a fool. The idea that they were Hagenti’s instructions did not come to mind. That aside, would any noble inform the country of any blunder in their own territory? 「You」 Hagenti muttered in a low voice and further lowering it said 「If you’d stayed silent, this wouldn’t have been necessary.」 Turning around, Hagenti thrust the sword. Tamuzu couldn’t react in time. Tamuzu collapsed after the sword struck his stomach and looked up at Hagenti without being able to make a sound. Hifumi slipped into the room while Hagenti was occupied with the collapsed Tamuzu. When Hagenti noticed Hifumi’s intrusion, that figure was already in front of him. 「Uoo!」 Hagenti slashed with the sword that he was holding in the spur of the moment, but it was too late. A fist drove into the sword-brandishing Hagenti’s solar plexus, his eyes turned white and fainted. Hifumi looked at the fallen Tamuzu, however it was too late. He was dead. Hifumi noticed indications of something hidden behind Hagenti’s writing desk, so he turned it over. In a single beat, the painting that hung on the wall above was sliced. Falling from the gash in the painting, scattering documents fell down. Looking at the state of affairs, Hifumi nodded to himself. 「 Found it at last 」 Strauss had entered the room. 「 You’re slow. The task here is done, you can entertain me. 」 Hidden in the shadow of the desk, Hifumi put away his katana and brought out his kusarigama. 「 It’s over is it? Is Hagenti dead? 」 「 No. 」 Hifumi rose, leisurely swinging the chain, sickle in one hand. 「 We can still fight a little bit more. I’m letting him live for now 」 「 ...... It is regrettable that I withdrew before. By no means did I think you’d be a hindrance here. I should have killed you at that time 」(Strauss) Strauss pointed his dagger at Hifumi and began to chant quietly. Hifumi continued swinging the fundou, the same as ever, without taking up any particular stance. 「 ....... Are you finally prepared? Die! 」 Though the wind blades attacked Hifumi, a gust of wind produced by the fundou dispersed their destructive force and disappeared. 「 What!!?? 」 Strauss had absolute confidence in his wind blade magic, he was unable to hide his surprise at seeing it so easily erased. 「 You bastard, what did you do! 」 「 As you can see, I waved my weapon. Like this, swoosh. 」 The chain was flourished as to show the fundou at the end of the chain. 「 As expected, if shown often, countermeasures can be prepared. Was I overconfident? However, there was no choice, it had to end. 」 Not just the fundou, the sickle section of the kusarigama was thrown, twining around Strauss’s shaking arm, the sickle section embedded itself at the right shoulder. Strauss lowered the dagger, Hifumi approached slowly and cautiously. 「 The wind can be blown in various directions, but the practical scope of using it is quite narrow. In the Marquis’s estate, Pajou’s shoulder had a shallow cut. Some time ago as well, not even the painting was sliced completely. Though the wind blades blowing may look frightening, the reality is that the opponent cannot be killed unless cut at the neck. 」 The true nature of Strauss’ magic was seen through he was panicking while holding the dagger in his left hand. In addition he began to chant, but Hifumi was already in front of him. 「Too slow. 」 Strauss got kicked in the face and rolled over to the hallway. You could see he had a nosebleed and was fainting in agony, then a woman’s scream was heard. 「The magic my Origa uses can attack and carve out a desk from the floor. The speed of the attack is much faster」 「 I think there is some good prospects in your body movement, but it is still impossible for you to stand before me.」 Hifumi slashed Strauss with a quickdraw while he was trying to get up. Stepping forward firmly with his right foot, a sound was heard as Strauss’s head began to fall from the torso. In the hallway, there was a housemaid who witnessed the instance of murder, unable to move out of shock. 「 Hii-! 」 Frightened at seeing Hifumi approaching, she moved back, trying to escape unsuccessfully. Sorry about that. Can you stand? 」 Afraid of being touched again, stopping at a suitable distance. 「 Gather everyone else in the hall. 」 「 This...... Yes, Un-Understood! 」 Standing up, the maid unsteadily ran to carry out Hifumi’s instructions. Shouldering the unconscious Hagenti and returning to his seat in the dining room, a little less than 30 minutes has lapsed since he’d left. Though he had settled the entire matter alone, he anticipated what they were going to say. 「 There’s the scent of a woman on you. What were you doing? 」 Hearing Origa’s first words, he slipped .

After sneaking out of the royal castle, the First Knight Unit’s Ribezal brought around subordinates with him and went towards Horant. His goal was the city of Münster, where the Second Knight Unit was stationed. Ribezal was impatiently rushing his horse along the highway, but suddenly, a person could be seen standing on the road. It was a suntanned small man around the age of , who was signaling by swinging both of his arms in a big motion, but Ribezal had no intention to respond. “Out of the way!” Although he shouted with a loud voice, the man didn’t seem to have the intention to make way for them. Ribezal was then surprised by the man’s next words. “You’re Ribezal of the First Knight Unit, right?” “What?” Ribezal damned himself inwardly as he unintentionally halted his horse. Stopping here means he recognized the man’s existence. He looked closely at the man, but his eye color couldn’t be seen as he was smiling so much that his eyes turned thin. But it was not a man he had any recollection of. “Yes, I’m known as Beirevra, and honestly, I’m a spy from Vichy...” The words of the man called Beirevra immediately put Ribezal and his men on guard. As they put their hands on the swords by the waists, Beirevra flusteredly shook his hands. “P-Please wait! I was waiting here because I wanted to help you!” “You said you were waiting here? How did you know I was coming this way!? Furthermore, you say you’re a spy from Vichy, but this is the border of Horant. This is on the opposite side.” “Well, you see, a guy named Hifumi was looking for me and it seemed as if the country would sell me out. So with the help of an intermediary, I went over to Horant...” It seems that by the time Vichy’s army was defeated, he had betrayed his country and used a fake name to cross Orsongrande in order to reach Horant. “And then as I was about to leave the capital, I heard that Hifumi had arrived at the royal castle. I thought someone from the castle should hurry over towards the Second Knight Unit over by Horant, so I left the capital early in order to wait here.” But never did I think I’d meet the captain of the First Knight Unit, he clumsily flattered. “So, what’s your objective?” “Yes. I thought that perhaps you’d like to become colleagues.” Seemingly embarrassed, Beirevra scratched his head, as all the knights made suspicious faces. “There are no advantages for me, so there’s no need to talk about it.” “Oh? I’d certainly be of some help, right? Because I can arrange some of Horant’s magic tools, you see.” “Magic tools? What use would they be?” “Well, if you were to check what happened to the Second Knight Unit over at Münster, you’ll know.” “What...” Not understanding what he’s implying, Ribezal ordered his men to capture the still smiling Beirevra. “I don’t know what your goal is, but I’ll decide what to do with you after seeing the circumstances.” Being pulled into something, Ribezal felt that it was best to keep the small man alive for now. Beirevra was bound without any particular resistance, and was brought with Ribezal as they continued towards Münster. Hifumi and Origa were riding their horses along the highway towards Fokalore in a good mood. The reasons for their good moods were different, but the time was spent in a comfortable and carefree manner in the warm weather. “Hifumi, there’s a response from the echolocation. There are people minutes ahead of us. They seem to be carrying weapons.” For a moment, Hifumi didn’t know what she was talking about, but then he recalled the wind magic used for searching, that he named himself. , Hifumi thought, admiring Origa as she put forth great effort to increase the accuracy. “Weapons, huh. Are they bandits?” “Most likely. It’s close to the highway, and there are few monsters, after all.” They didn’t stop the horses as they spoke. “What is it?” “About the promise to pursue Beirevra – it might be somewhat hard. Since we didn’t get an answer from Vichy, by the time we finish dealing with the central committee, he might’ve escaped somewhere.” “That...” Origa covered her face. Truthfully speaking, killing Beirevra was the reason she was initially together with Hifumi, but before she noticed, she started using Beirevra as an excuse to stay beside him. She had thought more than once or twice, that if they don’t find Beirevra, they’d stay together like this forever. But of course, the desire for revenge on Beirevra had still yet to disappear. “... I believe that as long as I journey the world together with you, we’ll be able to catch him at some point.” In response to Hifumi’s short answer, Origa felt miserable. Wasting the consideration of Hifumi, as well as delaying the conclusion of the matter, in order to ensure a place she could call her own. Origa felt she was dishonest. Aside from her dispiritedly worrying, Hifumi quickly jumped off his horse and tied it to a suitable tree. It’d be troublesome if the horses escaped, so he thought about leaving the horses here before killing the opposite party. “There’s no need to hesitate. If you think you should kill, just kill. That’s reason enough.” Hifumi muttered a few words before he left, swinging the counterweight of the kusarigama in his hands. It seems like he misunderstood the reason Origa was feeling down, but more than anything else, that Hifumi showed concern for her made her happy. “Yes!” Responding to Hifumi, Origa grasped a shuriken in her right hand, before running to catch up with him. “Since when did the Orsongrande soldiers deteriorate this much!?” Crushing the war report in his hand, Stifels struck his desk. “Well, Horant may have a fewer amount of soldiers than us, but even if we assault them with arrows and magic, or cut off their arms, they still charge right at us. Truthfully speaking, it’s abnormal.” No one in the Second Knight Unit had any knowledge of the magic tools used in Arosel or Rhone. Just that as they were following orders to push against the Horant soldiers, they were completely suppressed mentally. In addition to the knights they had around 3000 soldiers, but they had already lost about a tenth of them. “Moreover, their magicians seem to easily perform inhuman acts, like getting their own allies caught in their flame spells. It frightens our soldiers, so the morale is plummeting.” As the reporting vice captain made a bitter face, Stifels violently sat down in his chair. “Anyhow, Ayperos is currently at the headquarters. If we keep this up and fail to rise any military achievements, we can’t return to the capital. We need to inflict at least some damage to the enemy, so we can’t retreat.” He filled his cup with alcohol, and drained it all at once. “In the first place, Horant suddenly trespassing the national border is the problem! With no official statement, this is a complete surprise attack... Behaving like bandits, the magic country Horant sure has fallen.” Stifels complained, but what he wanted now was a concrete plan as to how to deal with the current situation. “Captain...” Glaring at the vice captain, Stifels smacked his lips. “It can’t be helped, we need to borrow Earl Biron’s territorial forces. We’ll increase our numbers and push them back in one go.” But before he could send someone, prince Ayperos arrived. “Stifels. How is the war progressing?” Ayperos, still in his teens, had brought with him several of his chamberlains, doing his best to make a dignified display. “Yes. Horant’s resistance is stronger than we expected so we’re currently struggling for supremacy. The strategy we have now is to force them back.” “I see. Tell me when it’s about to be decided.” When they are about to win, Ayperos needed to come out to take the helm. Aiperos said he looked forward to it, before taking his leave, as Stifels unpleasantly saw him off. “Coming out afterwards...” This was all done in order to give the Second Knight Unit some achievements, but Stifels didn’t know what to do with the prince who were butting in more than necessary. It seems like witnessing his sister Imeraria actively participating in the national politics, and getting the support of the people, had made him somewhat impatient. Maybe the throne would be snatched away like this, so that’s why he made that previous announcement to Stifels, as well as bringing with him a huge number of chamberlains and his private army. But he didn’t let that private army participate in the battle, and only used them as an escort. A lot of people were brought with him, so the city of Münster was about to burst. Far from being a help, they were rather a nuisance. “At any rate, we’ll increase our soldiers and strike the enemy with overwhelming power! Send a messenger to Earl Biron.” Hifumi let out a sigh as he looked at the sickle he had just reaped several human lives with. “It’s quite damaged. I’ll need to reforge it when I get back to Fokalore.” The bandits, whose numbers had already been halved, were glaring at Hifumi with their crude weapons in their hands but when they saw their dead comrades on the ground, their legs didn’t let them step forward. “I’ll need to use another weapon for now.” Instead of the kusarigama, Hifumi fetched his pick and swung it lightly. “This one is still okay.” Hifumi glanced behind him and saw Origa smiling. Beneath her feet were the bodies of three bandits, who seemed to have wanted to take her hostage. All at once, attack!” “Yeah!” At the words of the man who looked like the leader, the remaining 10 men all attacked. “Do that from the beginning instead.” One person got his throat pierced by the pick. Before his eyes got dark, the next person had already had his neck grabbed and thrown down on the ground, before getting his heart pierced. Averting an incoming club, Hifumi kicked the person in the crotch with all his strength. “Scheme a little bit at least. This is dull.” Finishing with the pick, he retrieved the spear he took from Ribezal. “7 left. I wonder how many seconds you can hold out for.” The head of the bandits, who was brandishing a longsword, got both of his legs cut off, after which Hifumi decapitated him. The bandits who lost their leader threw their weapons on the ground and began to scatter in all directions. But if he were to let away his precious prey, he wouldn’t be Hifumi. He thoroughly transformed them all into corpses. “Nice weather... I hope it’ll stay like this all the way until Fokalore.” Origa felt some ordinary everyday happiness looking at Hifumi merrily killing people. “I refuse.” Earl Biron curtly refused the request for reinforcements the Second Knight Unit’s vice captain brought with him with his visit to the Earl’s mansion. “But why? We’re asking you in order to cooperate to protect this city...” “I also took the protection of the city into consideration before I refused. My subordinates also confirmed the war situation, and the soldiers from Horant are behaving strangely.” ‘That’s something you should also know about’, Biron said as he stared at the vice captain. “With an abnormal opponent who don’t feel exhaustion and just keeps relentlessly attacking, I don’t think you can just meet them head on. It’d be better to exhaust them by defending, while waiting for reinforcements.” “Reinforcements?” “Yes. I’ve already sent a messenger. It’s quite a distance away, but they should arrive before the defensive wall collapse.” The vice captain couldn’t hide his irritation at that carefree manner of speaking. “Is this really the time to stay calm!?” “Oh? Didn’t prince Ayperos say that you were ‘struggling for supremacy’? Furthermore, if we put importance on the walls, don’t we have enough defense?” “Ugh...” Of course, Biron was sarcastic, as he knew about the crisis with the army over by Horant. But as it was virtually the same thing Stifels had said, as well as being the truth, there was nothing the vice captain could say. “So, what size of reinforcement did you request from the capital?” If he could calculate the reinforcements coming, he could integrate them into the plan they had.magic “I believe it was around 4000 men from an outskirts region of the capital.” “You didn’t request reinforcements from the capital?” “Huh? Then where from...” Biron elegantly tipped his cup of tea a little, enjoying the smell of tea, before smiling. “If requesting something, a strong person is preferable, right? So I requested the lord of Fokalore, Hifumi. If he’s as strong as the rumors say, he should be able to play a significant role in the fight against Horant.” Seeing the vice captain not being able to close his mouth after hearing that, Biron felt a little better.

Early afternoon on the highway, ranks of troops are advancing with a luxurious carriage in their midst. The group, which expressly exceeds a number of , is the punitive force against the rebelling nobles led by Orsongrande’s queen, Imeraria. “Your Majesty, we got in touch with a messenger from Earl Biron.” “Well, then let’s meet directly with them. Over here. There’s no necessity to stop the advance.” (Imeraria) A single knight, who was in the vanguard, withdrew with his horse until he was next to the carriage with Imeraria on board. Imeraria had an appearance of wearing long boots with trousers for the sake of riding a horse, but unable to endure her sore butt on an unfamiliar expedition on the first day of departure, she obediently remained in the carriage, which has plenty of cushions laid out, from the second day onwards. Not changing her clothes showed her enthusiasm of being able to mount a horse right away if something happens, but the true feelings of all her maids was for her to stay docile and leave the fighting scene to the knights. Before long the young man, who named himself as messenger from Earl Biron, turned up an lined up his horse alongside the knight. “Err... i-it’s a great honour- to meet you, Your Majesty. E-Excuse my rudeness of addressing your from atop a horse.” “It doesn’t matter. We are a bit too many people to especially stop the advance. Rather than that, what about Earl Biron?” (Imeraria) As a messenger is originally nothing more than a single common soldier, it doesn’t happen often for them to directly exchange words with a queen. However as the current time is regarded as war time by Imeraria, she handled it in the basic way of listening to the information from the related parties to the best of her abilities in order to implement the phrase That has increased the favourable impressions of her by those working in the castle, but for the desperate Imeraria it’s difficult to take matters that far into consideration. “I have been told by Earl Biron to report the entirety of the current situation to you, Your Majesty.” “Let’s hear it. Ah, let’s have Sabnak-san listen as well. Won’t someone please go call him?” (Imeraria) Once Sabnak, who was commanding the ranks at the front, arrived, Imeraria urged the young male messenger to talk once again. Accordingly the messenger explained the details regarding the arrest of the rebelling nobles under Earl Aspilketa as well as the attack of Horant’s side and the resulting battle against Ma Carme’s instruction unit from Fokalore at Horant’s national border. Since those were details he had already explained several times, his way of reciting had a practised tune, but he still spills tears at the passages about Ma Carme. “... This, won’t it turn into a big problem?” (Sabnak) Once Sabnak turned his look at Imeraria with a pale face, she nodded while firmly staring at the face of the messenger. “I understood the situation. Will you return to Earl Biron’s place after this?” (Imeraria) “No... I have a promise with Ma Carme-dono. As I already got Earl-sama’s permission as well, I will head towards Fokalore as it is.” “Really?” (Imeraria) Imeraria smiles gently at the messenger who answered with determined words. “If I consider the situation of Earl Tohno getting to know such information, it might be that I should confine you for the sake of avoiding problems as stateswoman.” (Imeraria) “T-That will...” “Be troublesome”, the messenger tried to say, but there’s no way to say such a thing to the queen. “However, I won’t be able to forgive myself for something like preventing you from accomplishing the promise between you and that person. Sabnak-san.” (Imeraria) “Ha!” (Sabnak) “Please give him two guards that will escort him. And also a little bit for his travelling expenses.” (Imeraria) “T-This much! This is too excessive as it’s my own personal promise!” Imeraria flatly tells the panicking messenger, “Then this is something I consider as my private good deed. Besides, the receiver of the verbal message, Alyssa-san, can be called my personal acquaintance. Will you still decline it?” (Imeraria) “Uuh... I shall accept it thankfully.” The messenger, who bowed towards Imeraria as she nodded with an “Alright”, while on horse, headed towards the rear with two knights, who turned up, in tow. “... Imeraria-sama.” (Sabnak) “I did something selfish.” (Imeraria) Sabnak bowed his head towards Imeraria who was showing a bitter smile. “No. Your Majesty’s consideration was admirable.” (Sabnak) “Thank you very much. Can you give me a bit advice then?” (Imeraria) “If my shallow thinking will be of use to you.” (Sabnak) Sabnak bowed his head once again while holding his breath as result of his future prospect that looks like it will be lying much more heavy on his stomach than any association with nobles. ☺☻☺ “Doing such a thing! Do you plan to ruin Horant!?” Facing Prime Minister Kuzemu who is standing next to the throne in the audience hall with a nonchalant expression, each of the higher ranking people of the castle, including the former ministers, yell their objections with flushed faces. For Kuzemu, who has already finished the seizure of the castle’s soldiers, the important people, who were driven out of their posts, don’t feel like any threat although they are nobles. “Oh dear, I’m a loyal retainer who, so to speak, showed distinguished war service by turning away the enemy nation that came attacking Horant.” (Kuzemu) “Don’t screw around! How is a bastard like you, who monopolizes the national politics during the absence of Nelgal-sama, a loyal retainer!” “Oh, did I praise myself too much, I wonder? Nevertheless, did you gather here to expressly state your trivial protests at this time where we are busy with the state funeral of His Majesty?” (Kuzemu) “You certainly have free time now that you were relieved from your posts”, Kuzemu spits out and gives some order to a soldier who was on the same platform. “Free time you say, that’s a nasty way to phrase it! I don’t want to be told that by a fucker, who is messing around by wielding his authority merely for his own sake without even showing a shred of condolences towards His Majesty having passed away, like you bastard!” “In the first place”, another minister raises his voice. “I heard you killed the subordinates of t-h-a-t man! Him having invaded the castle just by himself, even the proper crown prince was killed... There will be retribution without a doubt! What the hell are you planning to do about that!?” The instant he heard those words, Kuzemu, who floated a carefree smile, suddenly furrowed his brows and showed an expression of rage. “That’s it!” (Kuzemu) The one Kuzemu pointed at was the man who referred to Hifumi’s revenge. “Such loser mentality is no good! After that defeat, Fokalore’s soldiers have remained in this country while acting as if they own the place and have behaved as if they are more superior than our troops before we realized! Do you want to tell me that this is the way it ought to be in a normal country!?” (Kuzemu) “B-But, as that was for the sake of this country, the late king has...” “It isn’t all fine to just exist because it’s a country. This country and its people have to stand with their own power and also protect themselves. Where’s the meaning in the state’s existence even if we copied the technology of another country?” (Kuzemu) Kuzemu, who regained his composure while talking, changes his tone as if humiliating himself quietly. “However, for actually fighting him from the front, the opponent is...” “Do you think that I haven’t prepared nothing whatsoever?” (Kuzemu) And a slight vibration begins to resound during the audience. “What’s this sound?” “It looks like they finally arrived. ... Well then, everyone.” (Kuzemu) While feeling the vibrations which have gradually become larger, Kuzemu spread both his hands. “Returning to the previous conversation, I wonder if you will understand anything if I am to speak about this country’s fitting way of fighting?” (Kuzemu) “T-The matter of magic and magic tools?” “Correct! If you take it even further, there are things like magic potions. That’s our speciality.” (Kuzemu) The vibrations have become even bigger. “As a matter of fact, our country’s defence capability had built plenty of foundation at the time of that battle. Losing the research results in the chaos, even the experimental subjects were lost, but the data was left behind.” (Kuzemu) The ones who turned up from behind were subjects which were restructured with magic tools and potions. They were soldiers possessing bodies which were changed into gigantic builds with heights surpassing five meters. Wearing exclusive thick armours, they are grasping very long spears with their fat fingers. They are resembling Veldore who was killed by Hifumi at this location, but although their eyes are clouded with a pure white, they are obediently listening to Kuzemu’s orders. Such huge soldiers came entering while making a stir with their footsteps, their whole bodies. “W-What on earth is this...?” “It’s the inheritance of the late crown prince. We finally manage to make them useful, but...” (Kuzemu) The eyes of Kuzemu, who looks down on them with a glare, shone dangerously. “At any rate, they still haven’t adapted properly as elementary subjects. Their numbers are also too lacking to call them an army corps.” (Kuzemu) Kuzemu orders the restructured, enhanced soldiers, who surrounded the former ministers. “Break their limbs so that they can’t escape while not killing them and take them to the research institute.” (Kuzemu) “S-Stop...” The huge hands easily seize grown men with one hand and break their limbs by twisting them completely as if they are breaking twigs. Only Kuzemu chuckled among the reverberating screams. “Well then, I wonder if the weapons of the Knight of the Slender Sword or whatever will be understood by our restructured soldiers?” (Kuzemu) When that happens, we will be able to brazenly attack Orsongrande in retaliation. By achieving this much with Horant’s technology, the country will certainly be restored ☺☻☺ As the provinces disorder was a matter of the central government, Orsongrande’s capital was at a height of activity. The fact that the army made a move was well-known, but there’s no pessimistic atmosphere regarding that. If anything, it is taken as funds, which were gathered by the royal castle, flowing into the market and sharp-sighted merchants were wondering whether additional supply request would come in anticipation. The people were eagerly waiting for new tales of heroic deeds. After Hifumi arrived at the capital in such circumstances with the two women in tow, the attention of the populace naturally focusses on them. Be that as it may, the three people weren’t ones to mind such stares this late in the game. Once they entrusted the horses to the soldiers at the city’s entrance, they leisurely stroll the city on foot. The “I got hungry. If I remember correctly, there was a good set meal restaurant. It’s the shop where I ate first after coming here.” (Hifumi) “It’s the 『Dancing Cludo Pavillion』, right? This way, Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) “The capital’s lively as well, isn’t it?” (Alyssa) “I will get lost”, Alyssa grabs the right sleeve of Hifumi’s dougi and Origa twines her arms around his left arm. Although he wears unusual clothes, they aren’t gaudy. Since he is showing himself in the capital by walking in the city care-freely, the city’s people watch them without too much nervousness. The nervous ones are the soldiers among the patrols which they saw occasionally. Those hurrying to notify the office of the knight order and the royal castle in panic and those chasing after them indirectly in preparation for troubles. Among them there’s also a soldier, who was made to clean up at the time when ten assassins were slaughtered by Hifumi down-town. That person was already in denial and had a poor complexion. Having finished their meal, they walk through the city while browsing the shops. Because Origa’s face is popular in the capital’s shopping district, they head towards the castle while suitably dealing with the overlapping voices from all over. “... So, what’s your business today?” (Adol) “I thought that I should give a present to Imeraria.” (Hifumi) “Aiming to suppress the rebelling nobles who headed towards Horant, Her Majesty is currently proceeding towards battle while leading the troops herself.” (Adol) Prime Minister Adol, who has been entrusted with the role of house-sitting, greets them with an exhausted expression. “Hmmm. Then I will borrow the balcony for a bit.” (Hifumi) “Huh?” (Adol) “Excuse me.” “I wonder whether it’s alright...” Adol hurriedly chased after Hifumi who walks through the castle in a manner of being familiar with it. While he advances through the hallways unhindered, the civil officials and maids step to the side of the hallways and bow. “This is Earl Tohno! Please excuse me for not contacting you for a while!” “Please show us your wonderful skill once again by all means!” Arriving at the knights, they call out to him with flushed faces. Hifumi exchanges greetings in a light manner and advances rapidly. “Ah, Earl Tohno! Teach me various things once again, plea... Hiie!?” At the moment a female knight called out to him, Origa’s look, which is similar to being shot to death, is turned at her from Hifumi’s back. Once they walked for a little less than minutes, they arrived at the large balcony which was constructed towards the plaza in front of the castle. This is the place where Imeraria addressed the populace at the time of her coronation. It’s not rare for the prime minister and the ministers to publicize something here, with the exception of the notice boards at the city’s entrance and the plaza, if there’s something to announce. If you put it the other way, it’s also a place where not many people stop by unless there’s such announcement. “E-Earl Tohno, what the heck are you intending to do?” (Adol) “Ah, it’s a valuable present, therefore I wondered whether I should inform other people as well.” (Hifumi) He roughly tears off the wrapping of Balzephon’s head. “U-Uwawa?” (Adol) Ignoring the surprised Adol who has fallen on his backside, Hifumi jumped upon the railing of the balcony and called out in a very loud voice. His targets are the soldiers and knights patrolling the city. “Soldiers and knights who are protecting the capital! If there are fellows who want to fight, listen as well!” (Hifumi) There are people who scream as they see the freshly severed head, which was held up very high, while holding their heads. The called-out soldiers look up at the balcony and concentrated their gazes on the black-haired man whom they remember. “This guy is the wasteland’s souvenir! Look! He is still alive even though he is no more than a head! This is the humans’ new enemy, a The people look at each other while talking noisily and exchange their opinions regarding the word demon severally. Most of the population is puzzled, but the majority of the knights and many soldiers knitted their brows. While feeling slightly disappointed about the shallowness of their reaction, Hifumi continues his words. “The demons obediently stayed in the wastelands, but they have organized themselves alongside the birth of a new demon king! Even such monsters coming to attack after gathering might be only a matter of time!” (Hifumi) Even though Alyssa knows about the true identity of the head not being a demon, she stays silent as she knows Hifumi’s aim. As for Origa, she was unable to take her eyes off Hifumi, who is talking sonorously, while wildly breathing through her nose. The one who is shaken up the most on the balcony is without a doubt the prime minister. “Earl Tohno, that story, just what the...” (Adol) “Therefore!” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who drowned out Adol’s voice with his loud voice, smiles while shaking his head. “If you believe that you want to protect your country and this city, struggle desperately to become stronger!” (Hifumi) 「Yea!」, such voices reach him from all around. Once Hifumi, who nodded in an exaggerated manner, jumped off the balcony, Adol timidly pointed at Balzephon’s head. “T-That demon head, that is to say...” (Adol) “This, eh?” (Hifumi) Once it faced Adol after turning it around, Balzephon opened his mouth in agony. “Uwaah... eh?” (Adol) “I guess you remember him. It’s the face of the idiot who caused a rebellion in this castle.” (Hifumi) “T-Then it’s a lie that the demons will come to attack?” (Adol) Giving the head to Origa, Hifumi tapped the hilt of his katana while watching her carefully wrapping it up once again. “It’s the truth that the demons were released from the place, where they were imprisoned, and that there’s a new demon king. Well, whether they will come attacking depends on them.” (Hifumi) “That is, if possible, I’d like you to refrain from making the people too anxious...” (Adol) Hifumi suddenly opens his left eye widely and stares into Adol’s right eye. Adol can’t avert his sight from the black pupil which is at a distance of a breath’s range. Alyssa ignored Origa’s small-voiced muttering of 「How enviable」. is what I’m telling the bunch of soldiers at my place. From now on they will begin to fight without following such stupidity as 「Now, let’s get ready for combat」 after the enemy is visible.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who talked with dignity, tells Adol to pass the freshly severed head as present to Imeraria and tries to return into the castle from the balcony. Adol called out to him from behind while being unable to stand up due to fear. “W-Where are you heading from here on?” (Adol) Hifumi looks fleetingly at Alyssa. When he met the sight of Alyssa, who is looking up to him fixedly, Hifumi spilled a laughter with a “Fufufu.” “Let’s go and see how much the sheltered girl has grown, shall we?” (Hifumi) “I don’t know if might snatch them away if there’s a nice enemy though”, brushing off the dust on his hakama with a smack of his left hand, Hifumi left the royal castle.

“... What happened, with that face?” (Imeraria) A soldier announced the arrival of Sabnak who entered from outside, but Imeraria understood the reason for the soldier looking strangely baffled after seeing Sabnak who came in. Both his cheeks are swelling in bright red. If they were in the middle of receiving an attack, she might have misunderstood this as sign that they permitted an enemy invasion. “Nyo, thiw is...” (Sabnak) “He was scolded by Origa.” (Hifumi) “The cause of his misfortune lies with his own mouth.” (Alyssa) Alyssa and Hifumi showed their faces from behind Sabnak who faltered to talk about it. “Was she able to get here?” Origa is together with the troops so that she can take a rest together with the soldiers. “You were quite fast.” (Imeraria) Urging them to a simple table set which was prepared inside the tent, Imeraria orders the maid to brew some black tea. “To begin with we were heading to the capital with the intention of bringing you a souvenir, Imeraria. But, we heard the story about soldiers of Fokalore having been done in from Biron’s messenger.” (Hifumi) “It’s alright to go see the souvenir later since it arrived in the capital”, Hifumi smiles, but there’s something that worries Imeraria more than what the souvenir is about. “... Do you intend to take revenge against Horant?” (Imeraria) Without wiping away the sweat which is streaming down her cheeks, Imeraria watches Hifumi making sure to look up at him with upturned eyes. Alyssa waits silently for Hifumi who accepts her gaze with a smile as Imeraria is seriously waiting for a reply. “Ah, ouwch, t-therz’s a wuund in my mouwh... ah.” (Sabnak) Tasting the black tea which was poured in, Sabnak, who muttered that with teary eyes, realized that the looks of everyone are focussed on him.magic “Haa... Sabnak-san, since you have to communicate later on, please go now to receive medical treatment.” (Imeraria) Seeing off Sabnak who leaves in low spirits, Hifumi grins broadly. “As usual he is an amusing guy. That man will probably be manipulated by women for the rest of his life.” (Hifumi) “Which reminds me, even his elder sister who was married to Earl Biron... no, for now such talk is sufficient. Hifumi-sama, after I go to check the situation for a bit now, I plan to advance negotiations with Nelgal-dono once we have recovered the occupied ground up to the national border.” (Imeraria) “Don’t become a hindrance, is what you want to say?” (Hifumi) Having a daunting gaze turned at her, Imeraria just doesn’t avert her gaze although she ended up unintentionally making a sound with her throat. “... It’s as you say. This place is a battlefield under my command.” (Imeraria) “Fufu... ahahaha!” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who burst into laughter unable to stand it any longer, tapped the head of Alyssa who is sitting next to him. “Alyssa, Her Majesty the Queen has made a statement like this. But, what will you do?” (Alyssa) “Mmmmmh...” (Alyssa) Although she looks like she is troubled by that while folding her arms, the low height of Alyssa and the pieces of baked sweets clinging to her mouth cause the feeling of tension to be zero. “What’s this about?” (Imeraria) “Ah, I entrusted this time’s case to Alyssa. I’m acting as, let’s see, guardian. I will simply watch from behind. As planned, that is.” (Hifumi) “Then...” (Imeraria) “I decided!” (Alyssa) At the moment Imeraria started to say something, Alyssa raised her voice. “Princess-sama. Let’s compete.” (Alyssa) “C-Compete? And, I’m not a princess-sama...” (Imeraria) “For starters it will be about who will be able to retake the border first! So, how about it?” (Alyssa) Due to Alyssa selfishly advancing the conversation, Imeraria asked for help from Hifumi with her eyes, but he grinned broadly. “I told you that I won’t get involved, right? Discuss it among each other.” (Hifumi) “Gu... Alyssa-san! Listen to my part of the story!” (Imeraria) With Alyssa tilting her head to the side, Imeraria applies pressure into her gaze to her best ability. “There’s no way that we will be able to have something like a competition.” (Imeraria) “Eh? Then we will just do it with the two of us.” (Alyssa) “I can’t allow that.” (Imeraria) Although Imeraria declared it without hesitation, Alyssa looks like she’s unable to comprehend. “...? Since we will just do it with the two of us, we won’t receive any particular help or such?” (Alyssa) “Hifumi-sama, please ((do something about this)) one way or the other.” (Imeraria) As Alyssa didn’t understand coercion or dignity, Imeraria requested help from Hifumi after becoming more and more teary eyed. “I don’t care.” (Hifumi) “I will depart tomorrow morning before the sun rises. If it’s now, I might be able to still save Ma Calme’s unit. Princess-sama, as that’s my revenge, don’t stop me.” (Alyssa) “Revenge... Hifumi-sama, you are...” (Imeraria) Hifumi proudly snorted at Imeraria who is shocked. “She has grown up properly, right?” (Hifumi) “How to call it...?” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who curbed her brows, ponders about the best move even while groaning. It’s probably difficult to stop Fokalore’s feudal army led by Alyssa. Even while he says that he won’t get involved, it’s clear that the one essentially pushing her is Hifumi. It doesn’t look like I will be able to prevent it physically or logically. Then, what shall I do about it? There’s also the option of advancing the ceasefire negotiations in the style of getting on with Alyssa raising some military gains after leaving. , Imeraria looked at Hifumi’s face with half-open eyes. “... Got it. Then, Alyssa, I will join the retake of the border by leading my soldiers tomorrow early in the morning.” (Imeraria) “Huh? Princess-sama as well?” (Alyssa) “It’s queen-sama!” (Imeraria) While being embarrassed by the matter of having raised her voice against her better judgement, Imeraria clears her throat with a “ahem” and stands up. Imeraria took a hard and long look at Alyssa’s face while making sure to not put Hifumi, who is rolling about in laughter after seeing that, in her field of vision as much as possible. It’s a face that’s more childish and naive than mine. Until now she has acted together with Hifumi. I can’t even imagine just how many people she murdered, but it’s likely not one or two “Let’s not have a competition but a cooperation. That way even the rescue might go smoothly.” (Imeraria) “That’s true. Thank you.” (Alyssa) Imeraria wanted to ask that, but expecting that Hifumi’s name will appear there without fail, she decided to drop the matter. “Then, let’s talk about the concrete method. Someone, please call Earl Biron and Sabnak-san.” (Imeraria) Thus the meeting, where Imeraria and Alyssa played a central part, regarding “the method to retake the border without relying on Hifumi” continued until very late. ☺☻☺ “In other words, with the power of just the demons it might be very difficult to defeat that Hifumi-san, is what I wanted to say. You demons are quite strong at magic. Even your physical strength is excelling to the level of beastmen.” “However”, the shinigami continues while smiling. “Your numbers are low. And you aren’t acquainted with the world. The world has changed since you have been locked up. Even those, who have returned from outside, didn’t possess anything but limited information. So, you want to wage war by making all of the many races into your enemies?” If you consider how he suddenly appeared in front of Vepar, who was absorbed in thoughts by herself in the deserted audience hall, the shinigami continued to talk endlessly after giving a hurried greeting. Vepar, who listened to his talk while sitting on the throne, had her eyes closed. Without minding the state of Vepar, words continue to overflow from within the shinigami‘s mouth. “Therefore, you can’t just crush the wasteland’s powers but you have to absorb them. If it turns into a large power, Hifumi-san won’t be able to ignore it either. He will be unable to simply crush the demons and beastmen. However, you should absorb the beastmen and elves in the shape of ruling them. If you ended up associating with them on equal terms, you wouldn’t be able to create strategies like sacrificing some of your power. Since that Hifumi-san will be your opponent, it will likely be necessary to make some of the races into sacrificial pawns.” In the explanation up to this point, the shinigami has avoided talking about being hostile towards Reni of Swordland. He thought it to be fine for both sides to clash with each other in a state of being equally prepared as it will become a muddy battle then. “... You gave me a long explanation, but in the end you are telling us to conquer the wastelands, aren’t you?” (Vepar) Listening to Vepar’s remark which is mixed with sighs, the shinigami happily nods with an “Uh huh.” “It’s a big help for the talking to be quick.” “I know about the threat of the man called Hifumi. I remember him well after seeing him in front of myself. However, is it even necessary for us to stand in front of him going as far as especially resolving ourselves for sacrifices? Obtaining the wastelands is a pre-scripted route. If we don’t do that, it will likely be impossible to dispel the demons’ depression. The investigations and preparations for that have already begun.” (Vepar) “Therefore”, Vepar fixes her crossed legs and glares at the shinigami. “I can’t hear anything from you but telling us to merely plunge into danger. While it may be true that we will obtain the wastelands, I don’t feel any necessity to confront the humans. I would think ((it to be different)) if the humans were a lot weaker and less. However, the other side has an outrageous ace. And even without that, our side has far too few numbers against their superiority in numbers, right?” (Vepar) “The humans are fighting amongst fellow countries?” “It’s also possible that they will set up a collaboration at the time when a common enemy appears. Rather, they will jump the queue at that time to just fight with us. The words of opposing another race as “mankind” will probably raise their morale quite a bit.” (Vepar) There’s the threat of numbers and moreover there’s little information as us demons were locked in for a long time “The one-eared rabbit child I met some time ago understands the world far better than us. She knows of elves and humans even while being a beastman. She probably understood more or less about the demons in the recent events as well. In contrast to that, many of the demons, including me, don’t know about other races. There are legends based on the hate towards the elves. Beastmen are seen as low ranked ((existences)). As for humans, even I don’t have seen more than one.” (Vepar) “If I’m honest, I’m scared”, Vepar says. “Then you don’t have any intention to take an aggressive stance towards humans, you say?” Vepar broadly grinned at the shinigami who shook his head in an exaggerated manner while looking really disappointed. “No, once all the conditions are met, I will do as you say.” (Vepar) “Conditions... you say?” “If you call yourself my god, you have according power for that, right?” (Vepar) The shinigami opened one of his eyes widely due to Vepar’s question. “Well, I’m pretty much well versed in dark magic. I’m a god who holds power related to death.” “Strictly speaking, I’m not a god of this world”, he spills so that it can’t be heard. “There are two conditions. Intelligence about the powers who are hostile towards us. And...” (Vepar) Vepar’s slender index finger pointed at the shinigami. “Lend your power to me. If you ask for something, you have to hand over something. That’s called a deal.” (Vepar) The shinigami was taken aback for an instant. His mouth flapped open and closed, but once he arranged his hair and cleared his throat, he bowed courteously. “Let me offer it to you with pleasure.” Without waiting for sunrise, the two armies approach the border. Fokalore’s feudal army led by Alyssa left a reserve unit of soldiers behind. Orsongrande’s royal army led by Imeraria and Sabnak did the same. “There’s no strategy-like strategy. They will do a concentrated attack with spear throwers from long distance. After that they will retake the border by charging... is it? I’m describing it like that, but it’s nothing sophisticated or anything like that.” (Origa) “Well, even if they decide upon finer details with mixed military forces, they won’t be able to control those, right? Around this much is suitable and just right.” (Hifumi) Hifumi and Origa follow on their respective horses behind the two advancing armies. Hifumi is completely a curious onlooker. Origa follows because Hifumi is going. “... It’s soon, isn’t it?” (Origa) The armies’ advance slowed down and the the border became visible in the distance. The leading group has already begun to set up the spear throwers. As expected of Fokalore’s feudal army, they are quite dexterous. “Well, then let’s have them show us this country’s battle.” (Hifumi) “Ah, I put black tea into a canteen. I brought along Caim-san’s baked sweets as well.” (Origa) Receiving the black tea which was still steaming after it was poured into a wooden cup, Hifumi tossed the baked sweets into his mouth. Once he brushes away the crumbles, which fell into the horse’s mane, with his hand, the horse shakes its head seeming to be ticklish. “Oh, it started.” (Hifumi) The soldiers, which spread out at the front-line at the moment he had black tea in his mouth, began the firing after matching it with the voices of Imeraria and Alyssa. And, at the same time, Alyssa, leading around cavalry units, approaches the flank of the border while taking a large detour. Horant’s soldiers, which became restless due to the sudden attack, aren’t able to cope with it at all. They were mowed down nicely by Alyssa’s group which swooped down on the side where the spear rain calmed down. It looked like Imeraria attempted to do a similar attack as well, but being frantically stopped by Sabnak as expected, Hifumi saw her observing from the rear. “It has gone smoothly up to this point. Well, it will be boring if it finishes with Horant being crushed like that, but... hmm?” (Hifumi) The mouth of Hifumi, who discovered something in the far distance, curves like a crescent moon. While watching Hifumi’s happy face, Origa secretly drank her own black tea in the cup returned by him. “... They are surprisingly brittle. Once more... Ah, that’s...” While breaking through without further ado after heading towards the enemy line, Alyssa, who lowered her body and got rid of five soldiers of Horant by tearing the enemy’s neck skilfully with her wakizashi, faced about towards the enemy line, which has taken some distance, and confirmed that there were no casualties among her allies. By the way, since the other soldiers are unable to act this skilfully, they are breaking through the enemy lines while wielding long swords. Discovering that something was lowered from the rooftop of the border fortress while being suspended, Alyssa affirmed that the enemy was still in chaos and gazed steadily at the rooftop. “Such a...” (Alyssa) What was shown to be hanging completely like some flag by Horant’s side are the corpses of ten people which had a rope around their necks. Without a single one of them being in a flawless state, they lacked some of their limbs and some among them had their heads smashed in. However, Alyssa didn’t care about such a thing at all. “Ma Calme-san...” “Holy shit, what have they done!” Even the soldiers of Fokalore, who are around the speechless Alyssa, are revealing their anger by baring their teeth while looking up to the corpses. “A-Anyway, somehow...” It was the moment when the confused Alyssa returned her sight to the enemy line. What was there once Alyssa, who wondered whether some cloud appeared after manifesting alongside an earth tremor, raised her eyes was a giant which might be five meters in height. Together with the soldiers around her, Alyssa was knocked off the horse visibly being flicked off by the swing of the giant’s arm. Alyssa, who rolls over while raising a cloud of dust, stood up and quickly fixed her stance. “Huh?” (Alyssa) However, with her body not listening to her, she falls on her backside. Her body is alright in the simple armour, but her right foot was bent to an extent that makes it easy to grasp that it’s completely broken just by looking. The soldiers in the surroundings raised groans. Five soldiers, who were fine, got up and stood in front of the giant to protect Alyssa. “N-No... no! Everyone, run away!” (Alyssa) Raising a roaring sound that seems to drown out Alyssa’s voice, the giant grabbed the very long spear, which he carried on his back, with his hand.

“Peace is scary.” (Sabnak) “Dear, what are you saying?” (Shibyura) While placing black tea on Sabnak’s desk, Shibyura says in a fed up voice. “How many days passed since Hifumi-san left the capital? Doesn’t it seem like he entered the wastelands, as far as I’ve heard? Though it’s great to not have to worry about troubles, if I think about that person not being in this country, I become uneasy wondering what he’s doing outside the country.” (Sabnak) Sabnak has a distant look while tasting the black tea. “Rather than such things, gather the documents. Please hurry up and check them. If you don’t finish before Vaiya-san returns from his honeymoon, won’t it result in a change of captain?” (Shibyura) “... Why is Vaiya able to take a holiday before me, I wonder?” (Sabnak) “It’s because you were too slow with your marriage proposal, dear.” (Shibyura) Sabnak, who gave up to dismiss it resolutely, reluctantly cast his sight on the documents. Him being able to win against Shibyura in an argument has never happened. “Besides, get a grip and please have self-awareness as Royal Knight Commander. Please abstain from hitting the city’s bars after eating at the knight’s dining hall.” (Shibyura) “P-Please wait! I have to stay in touch with my comrades and the mingling with the townspeople is an important duty...” (Sabnak) “If you properly interact with the other nobles, I won’t have to talk about such things though. At least participate a tea party or banquet once every days, please. If it goes on as it is now, it will become difficult for our children to enter the noble’s society.” (Shibyura) “But, you know”, Sabnak faltered, but Shibyura glared at him sternly. “Dear, you probably want to experience freedom similar to Earl Tohno, but if you want to do so, please show achievements and a level of ability, which can’t be called ambiguous by your surroundings.” (Shibyura) Piling up the documents in front of him, Sabnak grumbled. “Although you are behaving like you have spare-time and are nonchalantly drinking black tea, don’t you have to straighten up these documents throughout the morning since it is scheduled for you to act as Her Majesty’s, the Queen’s, attendant in the afternoon? Please get it done quickly without dreaming around because no one but you is able to put your signature on them.” (Shibyura) “Haa... understood.” (Sabnak) Sighing while running his pen across the documents in a fluent motion, Sabnak thoughts got lost in Hifumi’s situation once again. (Be it the wastelands or even Swordland, that person likely won’t receive an injury. Even picking a fight with that person and losing one’s life due to that can be simply called reaping what you sow. That’s all there is to it.) Tossing a document into the “Processed” tray, he grabs the next document. (The problem is the case, where people, who choose to “accompany” that person, appear. If their situation resembled Midas-san and me, they would have a hard time by getting dragged into things, even if they stayed at distance. If they chose something like fighting besides him, then...) Origa’s face surfaces within Sabnak’s mind. It would be a disaster, if the number of such children increased ☺☻☺ Hifumi, who got his hands on gold coins of Swordland, walked along the road while irresponsibly spending his money on sweets at the stalls lining up along the way. Buying suitable foodstuff, they took fancy in, as gift for Reni and Helen, the three side-by-side aim towards the inn while eating pieces of fruits, bread and grilled fish and meat skewers. “Say, humans like to tamper with various kinds of food, right?” (Helen) While watching the steam rising from the meat stuck on the skewer, Helen spoke as if being astonished and interested. “It’s amazing, right!? I wonder how they create such things. It’s delicious and fluffy!” (Reni) Reni, who is eating steamed buns by carefully tearing it off bit by bit, seems to enjoy the sensation at the moment of ripping it off. “Tasty food will cheer you up. Besides, humans are fickle. They aren’t able to stand eating the same thing all the time.” (Hifumi) “Certainly, if there were such various, delicious things, I might get fed up with just the same fruit the whole time too.” Chewing the meat on the skewer thoroughly, Helen’s face reflexively breaks into a broad smile due to the meat juices spreading and seeping in. After Reni looked as if regretting the last bite of her steamed bun, she was able to toss it into her mouth with a “There you go!” “It’s this place.” (Hifumi) The building, they arrived at, is an imposing -storey building with a firm double door as entrance. The white wall seems to have been washed clean. By its appearance it had a feel of cleanliness although its old age is visible. Without any intention the beastgirls look up at the large building in blank amazement. Hifumi quickly opened the door and stepped inside. “Welcome.” A skinny man in white shirt and slacks bowed towards Hifumi. It’s a ° bow as if it had accurately been measured. Lifting his face, he shows a smile. “Are you staying over?” “Yes, there’s three of us. One single room and a double room.” (Hifumi) “Certainly! The registry is this way...” Seeing the two beastmen entering the inn a little after Hifumi, the man stopped his words and his smile froze. “Say... the beastmen over there belong to...?” “They get the double room. The single room is for me.” (Hifumi) “T-That can’t be right, can it? I’ve never heard of beastmen staying at an inn before...” “Humph”, Hifumi looked at the man disinterestedly. “As there were fellows leading beastmen slaves around in the city as well, what do they do at the time of using an inn?” (Hifumi) “Normally the slaves are told to get into the storage or stable in the back...” Once Hifumi turned around Helen’s cheek was puffed up due to be told something like staying together with the horses and Reni didn’t seem to understand the meaning of storage. “Understood.” (Hifumi) The man, who took a breath out of relief due to Hifumi’s words, regained his smile and tried to hand a pen to Hifumi but before he could do that, Hifumi stacked up gold coins on the counter.magic “Give those two the most expensive room of this inn. And the one next door to me.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who took the pen from the man, whose mouth twitched as if cramping while keeping up the smile, returned the pen after going as far even properly writing the title “Earl of Orsongrande” in the registry. “What’s wrong? Hurry up and guide us to our rooms. It’s a high-class inn, right?” (Hifumi) Opening his eyes widely only for an instant due to the word “Earl” written by Hifumi, the man dropped his shoulders as if he had given up and guided them to their rooms saying 「Please follow me this way」 with a feeble voice. “As meal we will have the most expensive course in the dining room. Three shares, of course.” (Hifumi) The man had an expression as if close to crying due to Hifumi adding one thing after the other. Hifumi laughed while smiling broadly. Not approaching the main gate, Salgu went around in a circle and drew near to a spot of the wall. Once he checks the surroundings of the wall for a short while, he discovered a partly crumbled part. Salgu found that part previously by coincidence. It may be because it is difficult to spot as it is hidden by tall weeds. Although there’s a hole to the degree that Salgu can pass through it, the place has been neglected for quite some time. After confirming that no one is visible in the vicinity for some time, Salgu goes through the narrow hole using his utmost effort for his large body. Advancing through the interior of the thick wall, the place, he turned up, being smeared in soil and stones, was a section, obviously abandoned, with decaying houses lining up. Escaping from the hole, he conceals himself in the shadow of a collapsed house while warily surveying his surroundings. “What the hell is this place...?” (Salgu) Of course Salgu, for whom it also was the first time to enter a human city only after he left the hole, isn’t familiar with the locality at all. Pricking up his ears quietly, he hears faint talking voices of people drifting his way. Walking while making sure to not make any sounds as much as possible, he secretly peers out from his cover in order to see the voices’ owners. There he saw a group circle of scattered races like sheep and dogs conversing. “That is cruel...” (Salgu) Among the beastmen continuing to hold pieces of silly conversations while facing each other gloomily, there wasn’t a single person having no injuries. Those without a leg or arm, those with only one eye, those, whose spine ended up crooked and twisted, and similar are sitting in a circle with filthy clothes twined around their bodies. Salgu, who confirmed that there wasn’t any human among them, resolved himself to appear in front of them. “There’s a little something I want to talk about.” (Salgu) “Yea? What is it? It’s a face I don’t know...” “I came from the wastelands. The other side of the wall has a hole. I entered from there.” (Salgu) Looking at the direction Salgu points at, the dog beastman, who answered him, laughs scornfully. “Hah, you expressly entered through that broken place? You went through troubles.” “Bear-niisan, what kind of business do you have in this garbage dump of a slum?” The old sheep woman’s face contorts into a twisted smile. “No... Why are all of you remaining here although there’s a hole from where you can leave over there? You should be able to go back to the wastelands.” (Salgu) Upon Salgu’s question the beastmen of the slum exchanged glances and suddenly broke into laughter. “If there only were optimistic guys like you here, the slums would likely be a little more peaceful as well.” “What?” Due to Salgu moving his ears with a twitch upon the dog beastman’s statement, the dog beastman laughs and tells him “Don’t get angry”. “Try looking at our appearances. If we left towards the wasteland in such state, we would only starve due to being unable to even hunt. On the contrary, it will result in us dying while being persecuted by other beastmen.” “If we stay in the city, there will also be the leftovers of the humans. If it’s only about staying alive, this side is comfortable.” The aged sheep beastwoman, who laughs with a giggle, showed her chipped teeth. “What a...” (Salgu) Salgu, who was here with the plan to rescue the beastmen, who have been caught, ended up lacking the words due to the not-foreseen reality, which was thrust at him all of a sudden. “Did you possibly enter here planning something like saving the beastmen, who were caught by humans?” “Why do you think so?” (Salgu) “Occasionally there are those. Fellows, who dash ahead with such sense of justice.” “That’s right, and they quickly pass away after a counter-attack by the humans. Since even the beastmen, who have something to do with it, are disposed of for being involved in it, it’s extremely annoying.” “That’s how it is.” While skilfully keeping balance with one arm, the dog beastman got up and stood in front of Salgu. The difference in height, far from being one head, is more than m, but the dog beastman’s eyes are easily capturing all of Salgu. “It’s your own business if you want to struggle against human opponents, but please do it elsewhere. I will tell you clearly, people like you are the most annoying ones.” Salgu wasn’t able to object. “Why are we in a different room?” “I can’t sleep if I’m not by myself. There’s no meaning in staying in the same room either, I think.” (Hifumi) Once he said so, Hifumi threw the beastgirls into their room and quickly entered his own room next door. Closing the door, the sound of the lock could be heard as well. “Helen, look, look!” (Reni) As Helen, who is getting angry in a huff, took a sidelong glance, Reni was rolling around all over the soft bed. “That feels great~. Humans are sleeping in such beds.” (Reni) Reni is stuffing her face in the pillow with a limp expression. Even Helen, seeing that, leaped onto the bed unable to endure. “It’s really soft.” (Helen) Before entering the room, Reni and Helen washed their bodies in a mildly hot bath and changed into the brand new one-pieces, which were prepared by the the inn’s employee and which is the same attire Hifumi is wearing as well. For the first time they did such things like washing in a hot bath and neatly combing their hair. Helen, who crawled into the futon with a heated-up body, loosened her tension of being in a human city and began to doze off. “Helen, it’s no good to go sleep. Soon it will be time to eat. Hifumi-san said so, didn’t he?” (Reni) “Uh~” (Helen) I never expected that the time for Reni to caution me will come “Ei!” (Reni) “Kyaa!?” (Helen) Abruptly tearing off the bed cover, Helen instinctively shrunk down into a ball holding her knees. “Hey, let’s go to Hifumi-san’s room.” (Reni) “I got it. Jeez, what’s with your unusual behaviour?” (Helen) “I have become somewhat excited. I’m also looking forward to the humans’ food.” (Reni) Watching Reni, who leaves the room ahead with a nimble stride, Helen shrugged her shoulders. Although they are childhood friends, who were together from the time they were born, it’s the first time she sees her state being so delightful. She displayed different behaviours and expressions than in the period, they have passed being scared of sounds in the woods of the wastelands. “Really now, although I’ve even told you that this is a human city...” (Helen) Even while saying so, Helen was aware that she was enjoying the situation herself as well. “Human cooking, eh? The stall’s ? meat was delicious. The fish was delicious as well.” (Helen) Helen, whose faced turned bright red due to the sound coming from her stomach, chased after Reni. At the time she entered the hallway, Hifumi had already entered it, too. When the three showed up at the dining room together, an employee approached in a flustered state. “Since it’s possible to carry the meal to your rooms, you will be able to slowly and comfortably...” “No, I don’t want the smell of food to stick around in the room. Here’s fine. As I want to eat various things, serve us appropriately large portions of different kinds at your own discretion.” (Hifumi) Hifumi slipped a gold coin into the employee’s hand while saying that it’s additional to the meal expenses. The employee, being surprised by seeing a glittering coin within his hands, laughed foolishly and lead them to a table. “It’s no particular problem for us to eat in the room though...” (Helen) “I wonder what kind of food it will be? I’m looking forward to it, Helen.” (Reni) Helen’s whispered opinion was drowned out by Reni’s voice. “Well, whatever”, Helen gives up and decides to obediently wait for the meal. Although the looks of the other customers, being at the dining room, gather on them, Helen and Reni, who were showered with gazes all over the town during the day, don’t particularly mind it either. Hifumi has a character to not care about other people’s looks “if there’s no killing intent and hostility” emanating from them. “The food from stalls is nice as well, but at such place they also pay attention to the appearance of colouring and arrangement of the things to eat.” (Hifumi) “Why? Isn’t it fine, if it’s tasty?” “Humans also enjoy such “pointless things.”” “Is that so...?” Helen is repeatedly puzzled and Reni feels admiration. Then the waiter came carrying the first dish. “Waah...” Steam is rising from the served dish. It was steamed chicken meat. Once Hifumi briefly explains the way to use fork and knife, the two, feeling irritated, break the meat into small pieces with their hands and stuff it into their mouths. “There’s is such tender meat as well.” “It’s the cooking which makes it tender. There’s no way it will become like this, even if you roast it as it is.” (Hifumi) While Hifumi also fills his mouth with one piece of meat after the other, he gives a proper explanation. Due to the appearance of a human and beastmen peacefully eating their meal, the surrounding customers also gradually lost interest. There was even a customer, who wanted to complain about manner and smell at the time when they came entering in the beginning, but seeing the two, who have a neat appearance having taken a bath, eating the food with delight, it apparently became difficult for them to raise their voice. There are even some among the female customers, who feel that it is a pleasant scene. They are watching the smiling faces of the beastgirls, who are able to eat the dishes, which are brought one after the other, with sparkling eyes. Once Reni, who noticed the state of such surrounding, showed a bewildered look, Hifumi stopped his hands. “Did you realize?” (Hifumi) “Ah, yes.” (Reni) “This is the sole pleasant aspect of humans. Their treatment will change with the circumstances, even if the target is the same.” (Hifumi) Hifumi stabbed the meat with his fork. “Even killing targets and targets of admiration are the same. I, myself, don’t believe it to be strange at all. It’s a simplicity that appears to be complicated.” (Hifumi) “That’s somehow incomprehensible. What do you want to say?” (Helen) Helen pouts and shakes her ears. “If you consider it fun to watch such “humans”, I wonder whether you want to do interesting stuff together with me from now on.” (Hifumi) “Interesting stuff?” (Reni) While biting in a crisp, long and narrow vegetable, similar to cucumber, which was put into the salad, Reni showed great curiosity. “Yea, it will be interesting. In the country, I come from, it’s a very popular game.” (Hifumi) Hearing of a game, Helen apparently got curious as well. “The game is?” (Helen) “Ah, it’s an enjoyable game. It’s name is Take the nation.” (Hifumi)

“Origa-san, you married that man after all...” (Hela) Putting her elbow on the counter, the Orsongrande’s capital’s guild staff member Hela exhaled from her nose with a puff. Doing this job for more than years, she remembered about Origa, who became a slave before Hela realized it and the young man, who had slaughtered adventurers in front of her eyes. That Origa married the young man who had now become an Earl. “Even Kasha-san...” (Hela) The two who had always hunted monsters together and who even served the same master after becoming slaves. The story Hela heard was that Kasha lost her life in the battle with Vichy. What does Origa feel as her friend? “Whatever, even if I think about it, I can’t help it anyway.” (Hela) As staff member of the adventurer guild she knows many people who lost their lives due to an error in judgement or being in a slump. People who were close to her, people who she didn’t know too well and people who leave or come wandering in, as far as Hela knows she has met them as adventurers. There’s also plenty people where she can’t even remember their faces anymore. “Be that as it may, today I have spare time.” (Hela) Since the capital has many people, one might consider that there’s many adventurers as well, but unexpectedly that’s not the case. Given that there’s few monsters in the suburbs where the most people live, those are areas where, against expectations, the main body of the adventurers doesn’t earn much. The majority of them are country bumpkins who were merely attracted by the big city, veteran fellows who are gathering expensive equipment and tools to go on an expedition and people who want to secure a certain level of convenient life. The information about the brutalization of the monsters has come in, but that incident hasn’t spread its influence as far as the capital yet. “Ara, it fits well that you are free right now.” (Origa) “Ue!? O-Origa-sa... sama!?” (Hela) The one who came calling out to her who was just about to doze off was the person who had come to her mind a bit earlier. The dress she is wearing and which was carefully sewn by using a high-quality-looking fabric was an attire far more noble-like than one could imagine. Showing an impish smile, Origa greets Hela. “It’s been a while. I’m relieved that you don’t seem to have changed. Besides, there’s no necessity to attach -sama to my name. It’s not like I’m a noble.” (Origa) “T-Thank you.” (Hela) Even if she says so, generally, if you marry a noble, it’s a custom to treat them the same like a noble. Seeing that even beloved concubines are treated with quite the politeness, it wasn’t like Hela could talk to her like a friend. And even without that, with Origa regularly visiting the royal palace and occasionally staying there for several days, the story, that she is close to Queen Imeraria, was something many people in the capital knew of. Being the wife of the hero and being on friendly terms with the queen, she cannot afford to not treat Origa as important person. She has ability and authority at her back after all. “Ah, right, so Origa... -san, what kind of business do you have with me?” (Hela) By no means you plan to act like a fake adventurer this late in the game, do you? “It’s information gathering. You know about the monsters’ transformation towards ferocity, right?” (Origa) “Ah, so it’s about that?” (Hela) Grabbing the documents which were piled up nearby with a “Heave-ho!”, she spreads those out on the counter. Reports of various types are written on the parchments. They seem to be documents for the staff members to look through. “I haven’t heard of it much in the vicinity of the capital. It’s at a level of adventurers who have gone on an expedition having seen those occasionally. Thanks to that it hasn’t become such a grave matter around this area.” (Hela) “Is that so...?” (Origa) Origa replied with a serious face while looking through one after the other document. “Is there something bothering you?” (Hela) “Someone might have orchestrated the brutalization of the monsters behind the scenes. There’s such a talk as well.” (Origa) “No way.” (Hela) Hela laughed. The general understanding of monsters is that they form groups in the same way as wild animals and that this behaviour is something unrelated to being controlled. Even guild staff members, who are deeply involved with monsters albeit indirectly, have no differing knowledge. “It might not be a laughing matter. For example, how do you explain this?” (Origa) Extracting one paper from the bundle of documents, Origa quietly held it out to Hela. “Eh...” (Hela) The following is written on the report: “En route heading towards the direction of Vichy from the capital, a certain adventurer group was attacked by something similar to a human-shaped monster and two adventurers died. The survivors were forced to retire as well.” It was a document which Hela saw and ended up putting to the pile of similar reports. “Are those demons or new types of monster? At any rate, I believe that the work of the adventurer guild won’t proceed with the usual monster subjugation.” (Origa) “Paying attention to peculiar information, contact the castle if something happens”, Origa requested Hela to pass that message on to the capital’s guild staff members. “... Origa-san, do you know something?” (Hela) “I haven’t yet grasped the circumstances, but it will be alright.” (Origa) Once Hela asked while having cold sweat, Origa showed a smile. “There’s a hero-sama in this world after all.” (Origa) ☺☻☺ While the demons were continuing the offence and defence with the monsters, they constructed this city which was enclosed by a strong wall. As they polished their combat techniques, the magic each of them possesses and their special skills, they dreamed of some day leaving this small world. For that reason, they emphasized on their unity with their friends in this area and built a stable system of monarchic rule. The battle with the monsters also serves as training for their revenge against the elves who are just beyond the barrier. Originally the demons were hostile towards humans and beastmen, but being imprisoned in the barrier for a long time and as the generations changed, their hostile spirit towards humans and beastmen faded as there were extremely few opportunities to get in contact with either. All of their resentment was turned onto the elves. The cylindrical space, which was created by the barrier, is plenty large to ensure food by hunting and gathering. Many monsters settled in here and the demons, catching those and eating them, had no issues if it was only about surviving. However, the definite existence of a barrier certainly inflicted stress upon the hearts of the demons. “Saying all that, this is the current situation of the demon race.” (Phegor) “I see, I understood it properly. Thanks.” (Hifumi) Along the way, Hifumi, who grasped the demons’ situation to a certain extent due to Phegor’s explanation, thanked Phegor honestly. At first Phegor didn’t feel overly comfortable with disclosing the distress of the demons, however Hifumi, accepting the details as they were, didn’t react as if looking down on the demons nor did he behave cautiously. It might be good for him to know about it as background information “You are a strange one. Just when I wondered whether you have a more dangerous gaze than ferocious monsters, you express your thanks without hesitation. I wonder what’s going on in that head of yours.” (Vepar) “I ain’t strange in that regard at all. Don’t stare this way too much. It’s sickening.” (Hifumi) “Wow, how sharp-tongued.” (Vepar) Due to Vepar walking while laughing with a pleasant, high-pitched tone and asking “What’s weird?”, Phegor reprimands her to cut it out. “We have reached the castle. Since there are fellows who idolize you, have a bit awareness of the looks in the surroundings.” (Phegor) “How foolish. Even if they yearn for my smoothed outward appearance, it’s only troublesome. Overdoing it with their own niceties, they are yet unable to become my friends because they yearn for me.” (Vepar) “As usual, you always have something to say...” (Phegor) The place they reached could be called a white castle. It was a building made out of warm, solid, white stone. It’s much smaller if compared to the royal castle of Orsongrande. Although it also has a height of around a -storey building and with it having the impression of being clean like the Himeji Castle, it gives an exactly opposite impression for being called the castle of the demons for Hifumi. Those were his thoughts. “We don’t like overly exaggerated and gaudy things. However, I believe this castle is adequately beautiful.” (Phegor) Phegor explains proudly while Vepar yawns. “Even if we wanted to be pompous, there’s simply not enough materials and space. Well then, let’s go, human-san.” (Phegor) Vepar tried to nonchalantly take Hifumi’s hand, but smoothly evading the outstretched hand, Hifumi advanced towards the castle gate on his own accord. “If there’s something to talk, let’s finish it quickly. I’ve become hungry.” (Hifumi) Neglecting Vepar who was swinging her fist in frustration, Phegor also headed towards the castle gate. “Then let me treat you to a meal after the talk with the king. I definitely want you to savour the cooking of the castle’s dining hall. Come on, this way.” (Phegor) In spite of him guiding Hifumi who’s a human, the gatekeepers, who saw Phegor’s face, opened the heavy-looking double-door gate without saying anything. Once passing through the castle gate, a path, with a stone paving laid out, is stretching out directly ahead. It continues straight to the entrance of the castle which was wide open.magic There are demons who seem to be soldiers on patrol in the surroundings. Seeing Phegor, they stop and give a small bow. “It’s been a while since I came to the castle.” (Vepar) Vepar, who caught up, muttered. Generally there are many facilities for the army and standby areas in the city for the sake of dealing with the outside invaders, the monsters. It appears that she won’t approach the castle usually as she has no particular business here either. Phegor, taking along Vepar who is spouting information Hifumi couldn’t care less about, climbed the stairways without hesitation and led Hifumi to a single room. “Could you wait here? I will come back once I talked with the king.” (Phegor) “Got it. It will be even better if there’s something to eat.” (Hifumi) Laughing unintentionally, Phegor promised to have someone bring a light meal and left the room. “So, why are you remaining here? Go and do your job.” (Hifumi) “Ara, isn’t it bad to leave our important guest alone?” (Vepar) Once Hifumi sits down on a sofa, Vepar, who sat down next to him without leaving any space between them, smiles sweetly. “Which reminds me, there’s a kitchen in this room where simple drinks can be prepared.” (Vepar) Saying that, Vepar swiftly prepared a drink, which has an aroma similar to coffee, and placed it in front of Hifumi. Holding a cup with her own share in both hands, she once again sits down next to him. “There you go?” (Vepar) Extending his left hand, Hifumi took the wooden cup. Once he breathes in the rising, hot steam, he senses a mixture of a coffee aroma and a smell similar to dried firewood. The mysterious scent is tickling his nasal cavities. “I wonder whether humans don’t drink it much. Drying a tree with a nice aroma which can be harvested around here, it is made by pouring hot water onto it after roasting the wood until it turns pitch black. Although there are people who dislike it, I like it very much since it has a soothing aroma.” (Vepar) While Vepar is talking, Hifumi drinks a mouthful. The taste is just like coffee, but because its aroma is different, it feels like a completely different drink. “You are quite unusual after all.” (Vepar) Vepar, who has drunk a mouthful as well, put down the cup and laughed. “Usually one would be more cautious and wouldn’t drink something even if offered. In spite of drinking that without any hesitation...” (Vepar) Vepar’s sight turns towards between her and Hifumi. There she saw Hifumi firmly grasping the suntetsu with his right hand. Its sharp, pointed end is obviously aimed at Vepar. “Do you plan to attack me with this small weapon if I make some odd move? Good grief, I’m not even sure if you are simply cautious of me or if you have faith in me.” (Vepar) “It’s different.” (Hifumi) “Eh?” (Vepar) Hifumi, who gulped down another mouthful, exhaled with a “Fuu~” to let the heat flow out. “I have no intention to attack you. I plan to kill you.” (Hifumi) Hifumi’s gaze firmly captures Vepar’s eyes. “Something like being too cautions of food and drinks is oppressive and I won’t do that. I generally realize if there’s ill will in play. If by some chance I was done in by poison I missed to notice, that would just mean it was my limit up to there.” (Hifumi) “Then, this is?” (Vepar) Pointing at the suntetsu, Vepar tilts her head to the side. “If you are hostile, I want to kill you without fail, I guess? It’s not my hobby to spend time on tormenting someone. Although it’s at a level of you getting killed by me in the instant you consider harming me, that will also be my biggest pleasure. I won’t spare any effort for that cause. I’m more afraid of being unable to kill than dying.” (Hifumi) “And, even if you did me in with poison, I would be able to savour the satisfaction of getting my revenge in an instant”, Hifumi said and drunk the rest remaining in the cup. Vepar held her arms as if embracing herself and entrusted her body into the back of the sofa. And, flapping her feet like a child, she displays a joyful expression. “Though it’s about killing someone else, you haven’t a shred of hesitation if you deem them as your enemy! Although it’s me saying this, I do believe that I understand the charm of my own appearance. Are you able to even kill such a young woman, I wonder?” (Vepar) “I don’t particularly care.” (Hifumi) With only those words, Vepar was convinced that Hifumi had already killed a young woman. “You are wonderful! I want to see your appearance as you are fighting with someone by all means.” (Vepar) He noticed that Vepar used the word “someone” and not monster, but Hifumi didn’t go out of his way to say anything about that. At that point Phegor returned. “Thank you for waiting. Since the king was as gracious to grant us some time, I’d like you to come, but... Vepar, why are you grinning broadly?” (Phegor) “It’s nothing. Leaving that aside, I will take care of him. Since it’s probably the first time he came to this city, I will show him around various places.” (Vepar) “That will save me the trouble.” (Phegor) “Yes, leave it to me!” (Vepar) Phegor felt uneasy about Vepar recklessly getting close to Hifumi, but since Hifumi’s reaction doesn’t seem to be unfavourable, he decided to leave it to her. And, advancing to the floor further above by Phegor’s guidance, they entered through a remarkably large door. In front of Hifumi, who stepped into the hall-like room, there was the figure of a boy who spread both hands and stood up from the throne. “Welcome, human! My name is Agathion. I’m the king ruling this city of the demons.” (Agathion) Agathion, who swiftly descended the -ary stairs, had a whole-faced smile on his face which had a grey skin tone characteristic for demons. He walked up to in front of Hifumi without any hesitation. There were several soldier-like people within the room, but none of them tries to stop him. “I heard from Phegor. I never expected a human to pass through the barrier and to arrive at this city! This will certainly be a momentous meeting which will remain recorded in the history of the demons. For the present I shall welcome you!” (Agathion) “Is it good to have absolutely no vigilance like that? I still haven’t said that I will cooperate with you. I might become your enemy.” (Hifumi) “That’s fine.” (Agathion) Agathion, who showed a slight darkening on his face, lowered his gaze. “It’s alright for you to be our ally or enemy. No matter which way you choose, it will cause the “change” desired by me.” (Agathion) Due to the unforeseen development, Hifumi pursed his lips and stared at Agathion.

Cover of the original from After they regained their consciousness and entered a state of exhaustion where it was possible to tell that they were safe with a single glance, the soldiers from Horant escaped the effect of the magic portion successively. They numbered . When all of them regained their consciousness, all the knights were totally exhausted. “For the time being they will be put under house arrest with added monitoring in a reserved inn, but...” (Sabnak) Sabnak visited Biron’s mansion and gave a report. Since he ran around after the first soldier’s recovery, his eyes are showing thorough dark circles. “Thanks for your work. As for their treatment, if we liberate them or arbitrarily enslave them here, they will be afraid.” (Biron) “I’m off to give a report. It would be great if we could finish it as peaceful as possible.” (Sabnak) “It will be alright. At any rate, they seem to be new candidates to join the fief’s population as far as Earl Tohno is concerned about the soldiers from Horant.” (Biron) Biron talked about the possibility of sending them to the aforementioned territory, where they, far from being treated terribly, will be welcomed heartily. With a smiling expression he is looking somewhere far away. “... Certainly, if it’s Hifumi’s territory, it appears that the livelihood of the populace has become abundant. Having a high popularity amongst the fief’s population, the fame of the Knight of the Thin Sword is apparently continuously rising.” (Sabnak) “Moreover, because of the many staff members and civil officials, things related to the administration are also stable,” Sabnak explained the details of the report that came from the knight order. “He will increase his population once again. Furthermore, the people coming from other fiefs might increase as well. Regardless of it being legal or illegal. As noble he is ideal in a certain way, isn’t he?” (Biron) “Ideal... it is?” (Sabnak) Biron unintentionally burst into laughter due to Sabnak showing a face of not understanding. “Ahhaha! That doesn’t mean that I want to go around killing people like that either. I’m envious of him being able to immerse himself in something he likes while enriching the public finances and the fief’s population. That’s what I mean.” (Biron) “After all, any kind of noble, if they somehow struggle with a tight financial budget, would want to increase their own share. Although they are frantically managing their territory, Hifumi practically leaves almost all of the decision-making to his subordinates. And yet, without him even settling down in his territory, his territory’s administration fascinates the people more than that any other fief. On top of that they are operating with their balances in the black”, Biron pointed out. If one doesn’t only keep an eye on the strange habit of the person himself, one might see him as an excellent feudal lord. “Well, even if he might be an excellent feudal lord, you can’t really say that he is a good noble.” (Biron) “Why?” (Sabnak) “If he were a good noble, first he wouldn’t act in a way of exposing his own country to danger and next he wouldn’t kill royalty of his own country.” (Biron) As Biron shook his head with a bitter smile, Sabnak became aware that he had been splendidly corrupted by Hifumi. ☺☻☺ In Horant’s royal castle the king, Suprangel, in a state of entrusting his aged, skinny body to the throne, can’t conceal his face burning with anger. “For the time being, let’s listen to your story... ?” (Suprangel) Kneeling in front of the throne is the royal grandson, Veldone. With a face full of mortification and an appearance of clenching his teeth, one wouldn’t consider this gruff man as royalty at all. “... of the covert operatives sent to Orsongrande haven’t returned. Even the 500 soldiers, having finished the adjustment to the magic potion, Elrik, were killed in action or taken prisoner by the enemy...” (Veldone) The king had already heard the details of the story up to here. “So, what’s the cause of the failure... ?” (Suprangel) The question, spoken with a hoarse voice, puts a maximum pressure on Veldone. “That is...” (Veldone) Swallowing his spit, he continues his words. “The military forces overwhelmed the Second Knight Order. All was fine until they decided to turn the First Knight Order into puppets with magic tools using the convert from Vichy. They advanced to the enemy nation’s territory. Once they finally arrived at the city of Münster, the covert operatives were defeated reducing the soldiers to lifeless dolls...” (Veldone) “Who defeated them?” (Suprangel) “... A rising noble of Orsongrande called Tohno.” (Veldone) The king sighed deeply as Veldone squeezed out the name with a feeble voice. “Isn’t that the noble you said stirred up trouble with Vichy? Wasn’t it you, who talked about this man going to war against Vichy?” (Suprangel) Veldone can’t return an answer towards the king’s inquiry. A yet unseen hatred is surging within his heart against this noble called Tohno. “In short, it appears as if you misread the stage... At that time you said Orsongrande would never invade here for the sake of avoiding military operations on two fronts, including Vichy, but... since Vichy apparently already lost, I don’t know what will happen with you estimation. According to the part I’ve heard, the man called Tohno is referred as Knight of the Thin Sword. Although you can’t call him someone having a line up of military exploits...” (Suprangel) “Never! According to the information, the man called Tohno has arrived at Münster with a small number of people. Furthermore, I have also obtained the news that the First and Second Knight Order have been destroyed! Besides, the possibility of them coming to invade in reverse is...” (Veldone) The king once again shows a grim face due to Veldone spontaneously standing up and objecting. “We have obviously been deceived well by the small reinforcement, don’t you agree?” (Suprangel) “Uh... B-But, although being called soldiers, they were gathered from within the population. So they won’t have much of an impact even if they were used and then thrown away...” (Veldone) “If people infinitely gushed forth from the populace, no statesman of any nation would have any hardships either. If the people decrease, the tax yields of their labor will decrease as well. For you to not grasp this...” (Suprangel) Veldone holds his tongue due to the rebuking words of the king. “The talk about handing over the throne to you has been postponed indefinitely. It is currently too early for that. Work on preparing the defenses now.” (Suprangel) Being told to withdraw, Veldone leaves the audience room in silence. “He will probably learn something from this. That not anything and everything moves as he wants.” (Suprangel) As the king’s monologue resounded in the quiet audience room, the chamberlains and civil officials didn’t utter even a single word. ☺☻☺ “Well then, those of you, who are informed about the magic tools of Horant, raise your hand.” (Hifumi) Since they didn’t even fit in the dining hall of the inn, the former soldiers from Horant, gathered in a plaza, were baffled by the young man, standing on a hastily made platform, telling them this order without even introducing himself. “Who are you? Tell us why we are here!” (Soldier) “Ah, I see. Someone else will explain to you why you are here afterwards since it’s too troublesome. I’m called Hifumi. More or less I’m a noble of Orsongrande. Also, I will kill you, if you talk about unnecessary things from now on.” (Hifumi) Although the soldiers couldn’t process the forthright killing warning with their brains, for some reason all of them believed him seeing the seriousness in Hifumi’s eyes. Sabnak, who had climbed the platform together with Hifumi, one way or another spreads a smile in that bloodthirsty atmosphere. “Well you know, due to the suggested method of him we were able to free you from the effects of the magic potion. It looks like Horant turned you into puppets with the magic potion, used you and killed many of you. Given that we were able to shelter those surviving the battle, we could save you with a method designed by this Hifumi-san.” (Sabnak) The soldiers are looking at each others faces due to Sabnak’s explanation. Although they are not quite believing it, many are apparently thinking that it’s a fitting reason explaining their present state. By the way, Sabnak’s explanation is containing many parts he has been forced to say to a certain degree by Hifumi. “That’s how it is. Therefore, hurry up and comply with my order. Those of you, who know something about the magic tools from Horant, raise your hand.” (Hifumi) Bit by bit several hands can be seen. All of them are told to go into the dining hall of the inn. “Those of you remaining ask this fellow about the story.” (Hifumi) Having finished his business, Hifumi ends up quickly heading into the dining hall of the inn. A woman, with an age you would consider to be the one of a girl, went up on the platform in front of the remaining soldiers next. “I’m Hifumi-sama’s chamberlain, Origa. Let me, together with my master, express our joy for all of you to recover.” (Origa) It is a polite greeting, but will your master be pleased with that? “Everyone has three choices. First, becoming a free man allowing you to go wherever you want. Second, starting a new life in the territory of Hifumi-sama. Third, returning to Horant.” (Origa) Origa, discovering a timidly raised hand, gently smiles. “Do you have any question?” (Origa) “Umm... I thought we would be treated as enemies, but is it alright to free us, not to mention even allowing us to return to our country?” (Soldier) “Of course, it is. However...” (Origa) After clearing her throat with an ahem, Origa speaks. “Naturally we won’t guarantee you anything concerning your life afterwards even if you are released. Although we haven’t laid our hands on the things you wore, we won’t give you anything like money to cover the costs of preparations and such. And in the case you picked the choice of returning to Horant, ...” (Origa) Her lovely smiling facial expression collapsed in an instant. “Hii...” (Soldier) Someone raised a frightened shriek. “Since you will become our enemy, I can’t guarantee how many of you will survive after crossing the border. Horant will disappear within a few days by Hifumi-sama’s hands. During that period people, who are basically a nuisance, will be massacred. Since everyone, who returned there, will likely once again receive the drug and come back to the battlefield, they will immediately be turned into corpses then and there.” (Origa) “If you have the resolve for that, please go ahead and return home,” Origa says. Everyone has their breath taken away. Even Sabnak, who listened next to her, is stiffening. “W-Well, if it’s Hifumi... -sama’s territory, how will we be treated there? Will we be made into slaves after all?” (Soldier) While being glared at for almost forgetting to attach -sama, the young soldier somehow managed to finish his question. Origa showed a smile. If the previous intensity didn’t exist, they might even have regarded her as very charming. “Nothing like that will happen. Once you properly registered as citizen, you will be referred to a workplace that fits you as much as possible. It’s no problem for you to use the lodging house of the government administration for a while. If you have the aspiration, we will even hire you as soldiers and staff members.” (Origa) In one go it began to get noisy due to that proposal. A far too nice treatment, isn’t it a trap? However, there is no other choice. (Well, that’s how it will turn out, right?) Sabnak looked at their state harboring sympathy, but there were mostly people, who were apparently forcefully enlisted. Since they mostly made use of close-by soldiers for their human experiments, they probably chose people in a position of “There won’t be any complaints” on purpose In the end all of them decided to move to Fokalore after staying in Münster for a short while. It was arranged that they would accompany the Fokalore territorial soldiers once they returned. “What will happen if the territorial soldiers from Fokalore don’t return from Horant?” (Soldier)magic Someone asked that question. Origa glared at him with a degree of pressure causing the soldier’s body to petrify. For around 3 hours they had to listen to a speech about Hifumi’s magnificence and what unrivaled strength he is boasting of. They got stuck receiving another kind of mind-control. After that, all of the former soldiers from Horant became submissive towards Origa. “... Understood. It’s fine for you guys to join the other guys now. Ask someone suitable to tell you the story.” (Hifumi) At the time Origa’s public preaching took place on the plaza, Hifumi finished listening to the explanation about the magic tools from the soldiers of Horant in the dining hall. In the capital city of Horant, Adolamelk, the institutions related to magic research are concentrated in the vicinity of the castle. Excellent magicians are gathering there. It seems that it has turned into an organisation of collecting all of their results, in their pursuit in military arts and research, at the royal castle. As consequence, the commercialized products, after passing a certain time, are published and granted to Horant’s merchants and a part of Vichy’s merchants by the royal castle. It has taken a shape of constantly preserving the superiority of the royal castle in magic technology. “In other words, it’s best if I ignore the others and head to the capital.” (Hifumi) “It’s fine, if it isn’t too problematic,” Hifumi laughs. “There might be difficulties because soldiers, using magic, are gathered there, but, well, I will somehow deal with it, I guess. Let’s have the nation disappear by getting rid of the king while I’m at it. I want to see whether it would develop into a fight between local warlords in case the system of the central government ended up collapsing.” (Hifumi) While complaining dissatisfied by himself that Vichy didn’t succumb to the degree of chaos he planned, Hifumi ordered a meal from the inn’s employee. This inn isn’t the one Hifumi is staying at, but since the middle-aged female employee was given detailed and precise instructions about what kind of person Hifumi is and how to deal with him by the Third Knight Order, she quickly lays out Hifumi’s order. First she served a stew dish similar to pot-au-feu containing root crops all over which apparently is a specialty of this city. “I see, I see. It’s slightly bland but the taste of the vegetables is deep.” (Hifumi) Looking at his state of stuffing the vegetables into his mouth with a satisfied and friendly smile, the employee was baffled by this as she couldn’t see him as such a scary person. Her impression doesn’t match with the bloody story she was told in a way of bad-mouthing him not long ago. “I looked for you,” it was a knight affiliated with the Third Knight Order whose voice reached Hifumi. It was the man who called out to Hifumi at the time the group of soldiers from Horant came to a standstill. Currently he was helping out at the Third Knight Order. His name was Vaiya. “Ah, it’s you, eh?” (Hifumi) “The troops of Earl-sama have arrived. Just, that... the person calling herself military director...” (Vaiya) Somehow it seems he is hesitating whether he should say that he believes Alyssa to be too young. “That person, despite appearance, is reasonably powerful since she has been forged under my guidance. Hmm, well I guess her appearance is a bit odd though.” (Hifumi) “Then...” (Vaiya) “Ah, I have certainly entrusted Alyssa with the territorial army. That’s right, lead the soldiers to a suitable place where they can rest and bring Alyssa here.” (Hifumi) “Understood.” (Vaiya) Having his doubts cleared up, Vaiya returned an invigorated reply. “Sorry for using you although you aren’t even my subordinate.” (Hifumi) “Please don’t mind it. Thanks to you my head is still connected to the neck. I will do my utmost to return this favor.” (Vaiya) Vaiya leaves in order to call Alyssa. Hifumi ordered another serving of stew for Alyssa and other additional dishes for himself. “Now then, at last it looks like the preparations have been put in order.” (Hifumi) With the goal of invading the country of Horant, Hifumi’s mood was uplifted.

Two women rode on a -horse drawn carriage, while a young man trailed behind them on a large horse. This irregular group approached a checkpoint in the Imperial Capital. The stationed soldiers went around to the rear of the carriage in order to check its contents. 「Hey.」 The horse mounted man called out to them. The soldier was indignant at being casually called out by the mounted man. But on the off chance that he was an arrogant noble, it may become troublesome, so he endured it. 「What is it?」 「Is it still necessary to verify even with this official document?」 The mounted man unfurled and displayed a piece of paper rarely seen at a checkpoint. Thus the soldier realized the gravity of the situation. 「Proof of Trade of Aqua Sapphire...... 」 「It’s in the crate inside the carriage. Confirm it.」 「Un, understood」 The soldier opened the crate, finding an aqua sapphire clearly packed in a cushion of wood shavings, with a magnificent cut for a finishing touch. Of all the aqua sapphires he’d seen up until now, he’d understood just by glancing at it, that this was a particularly high class item. He confirmed that it does not differ in size or shape from what is described in the document, he then closed the crate and secured the lock tightly. 「Confirmation complete. Other luggage is only provisions for travel. I need to hear it just to be sure, what’s your destination?」 The soldier jotted down his signature on the memo using charcoal. questioning them while returning the official document. The man on the horse smiled from ear to ear as he took out a new document to show to him. 「Just the neighboring country. Here is the permission.」 A document indicating free ingoing and outgoing passage from this country was shown to the soldier, it clearly shows the signature of Princess Imeraria. Also attached is a medal indicating a noble rank. 「Please forgive me! By all means please pass.」 「 You don’t have to mind it. Its a thorough job anyway. 」 「Thank you very much! 」 As soldiers stood at attention to send the party off, the carriage began to advance while the young man continued following behind it. After the carriage left their sight, the men let out a breath of relief. 「......Was there such a noble?」 「That document has Imeraria-sama’s signature, and the name Hifumi Touno is rather unusual. By chance is he the rumored “Slender Sword Knight” ? 」 「I see, the rumored newcomer that Imeraria-sama favors. 」 The “Slender Sword Knight” which the soldiers were talking about was Hifumi’s nickname, the man riding on the horse with haughty attitude was definitely Hifumi, how the nickname came to be, he hadn’t the foggiest. A certain female guild staff member whimsically coined it, and due to the speed of Hifumi’s hunting and the impact of that first event, it had spread in the blink of an eye. Before the nickname started spreading, Hifumi was busy preparing for the journey, so he hadn’t returned to the guild. Thus the nickname never reached his ears. In the future Hifumi will become aware of it and it will become an established fact, but that’s a story for another time. 「Trying to behave and act like a noble sure is troublesome. 」 「Considering all that, why do I feel that you’ve already mastered it? 」 Having completely left the vicinity of the Royal Capital, Hifumi quickly stowed the carriage into the Dark Hole’s Storage. Now everyone is riding their own horses and are galloping like the wind. 「 No, this kind of haughty attitude, roughly speaking, I dislike it. Though I pretended to have the nobles’ attitude, it doesn’t feel too good.」 「 Master, what are you saying this late in the game..... 」 As far as Hifumi was concerned, nobles seemed to be showing off what they had without making any effort solely due to their lineage. The reason for this seemed to be the wildly different leadership and instruction. The subtle differences were not conveyed to Kasha. 「Master, the road sign ahead on the highway...... 」 Origa who was holding a staff and the reins in both hands suddenly called out to Hifumi. All of them slowed down. Origa didn’t talk much all the while because she was concentrating her magic, she was still not used to using the new magic the she and Hifumi developed together. After they left the Royal Capital and change from carriage to horses, her concentration was always on the staff in her hands. Being aware of the degree of freedom in practising magic, Hifumi introduced the wind magic capable Origa to the concept of sound being transmitted by air vibrations, using it to detect movements in their surroundings. It was particularly successful in detecting obstacles ahead. Since only Origa could use the sound wave perception skill, Hifumi did not know precisely how it felt, but by using a simple string telephone, he roughly explained the mechanics of sound transmittance. Half of the practice time was devoted to the development of this magic. In spite of it being a still-developing magic, distance, number of obstacles, size, etc. can be determined fairly accurately. 「 There are probably people ahead. Further on the highway......... There are people. 」 「 Just right. 」 The detection wave advances forward for up to one minute making contact with everything within that range. Since Origa was still incapable of exercising it to such a degree, she decided to practice it more. Incidentally, since Origa requested it to be named, after worrying a lot, it was named as “Echolocation”. Thinking about it, it may be because it was inspired by the sound wave perception that bats use. Reigning in his horse, Hifumi told Origa and Kasha to dismount and prepare their weapons. 「 First, I will meet them. This close to town, in all probability, those fools are thieves waiting to perform an ambush. There are a considerable number of them. 」 Hifumi drew his katana without descending from his horse. Though different from a longsword, on horseback, it will not be a problem with thieves as opponents. 「 I will suitably thin their numbers, follow from the back. Lets use this opportunity to refine your close combat skills. Kasha, without fail kill a person with no more than strikes. Origa, you must use the shuriken. 」 「 Understood. 」 Hearing their highly confident responses, Hifumi bent low over his horse and made it gallop. 「Stop!」 Five men with weapons in dirty, ill-fitting clothes blocked the highway on which Hifumi advanced. From their appearance and bloodthirst, he judged them to be thieves. There seem to be hidden presences on both sides of the highway. 「 Leave your valuables for your life....... Buh?! 」 Leisurely ignoring the speaker, Hifumi rode past the thieves without reducing his speed. The thief’s face split open, as did his carotid artery. As the thieves uncomprehendingly stared at their companion falling in a spray of blood, Hifumi turned around and charged towards them. Flusteredly they raised their weapons, too slowly. This time Hifumi jumped down from the galloping horse while maintaining his momentum, beheaded one of the thieves, as he rolled safely to the ground. The thief’s head was completely destroyed during Hifumi’s rolling fall. Two people were killed in a blink of an eye, the remaining three thieves got indecisive. It was then that people on each side of the highway came to flank them on both sides. people in total huh. unaccounted person was cleverly hidden, did she overlook it? While calmly confirming the result of Origa’s new magic, Hifumi stowed his sword, and took out a new weapon. The blade of about 30cm was attached perpendicular to the handle of the weapon, (attached to the other end is a chain with a heavy weight called the fundo at the end of it). It was a Kusarigama . While Thorn was creating the weapon, a remark of 「I can’t imagine how to use this」was made. Hifumi appraised the weapon as very well done. The handle and the size of the blade was good. The length of the chain and the weight of the fundo was per the specifications. The sickle was held in the right hand, while the fundo was being spun in the other. This appeared bizarre to the inhabitants of this world. The thieves weren’t able to judge on what kind of weapon the young man was holding because it was strange, because of that they were not able to attack immediately. 「GUA!」 Suddenly, one thief fell down. Looking at it, you could recognize a shuriken was stuck behind the head. Origa Hifumi felt admiration that she practiced skillfully, in addition the thieves were even more confused as another one was cut down. Kasha had sliced off a head in one strike. Also her movements had became more refined that before, her large swings were gone, and her swords were tightly controlled by her skills. While seeing such growth from the two of them, Hifumi threw the fundo towards one of the thieves who looked away from him and it smashed his skull to pieces. An arm was cut by Origa’s magic and Kasha’s sword gave the finishing blow, their coordination was splendid as expected. The two of them cleaned up the remaining thieves, from here on out Hifumi needed to think about some guidelines. All the thieves were killed instantly, the section of the highway was dyed with blood. 「This is well done. Although I hammered it into you in a short time, you moved pretty well.」 「Thank you very much.」 「But.」 Hifumi pointed at one thief who collapsed. There stuck a shuriken in the back of the shabby leather armor. 「I have dealt a fatal blow to him...... Origa, do you know why this is bad? 」 「I hit a section of the armor that the blade of the shuriken wasn’t able to penetrate...... I think. 」 Although they were praised and rejoiced for a moment, for Origa their mistake was to be ashamed of, but Hifumi said 「It is not so 」. 「You can hit anywhere. Originally, shuriken rarely deal fatal blows. That first piece of shit was just a fluke(where she got a headshot). The problem is, this dickhead wasn’t aware a shuriken was stuck to his leather armor」 Hifumi was observing firmly. This guy was supposed to be panicking, but his mind was occupied with dealing with Hifumi’s movement, so he wasn’t able to notice it immediately. 「This was a useless move. Even if you hit the armor, you should hit the front section where they could see. It incites fear, you create an opening for the other person to deal the finishing blow. 」 「I see...... I shall devote myself to it.」 「Next is Kasha.」 「Eh, me?」 That excellent fight was thoroughly analyzed, Kasha admired how the others fought, but it was now Kasha’s turn to receive some advice. She thought that she had performed well, but she was surprised that she was called out suddenly. 「Look at your sword. The one you’re holding on your right hand. It seems a little bit was chipped off. 」 「That’s not true! ...... Oh its true. It’s chipped a little bit. When was it? 」 The fact is she didn’t notice at all, Kasha tilted her head to the side while being baffled, Hifumi pointed at another male corpse. 「It was when you stabbed that guy. I can sense that you stabbed him while hitting the bone with too much force. 」 The thinnest section of the blade is certainly fragile compared to a human bone which is really hard. If you force it to attack at an odd angle, the sword will receive some damage. 「During stabbing firmly hold the sword sideways , Do not strike the ribs, you need to learn to avoid the middle where the sternum and the spine is located.」 「Oh...... but, but my opponent has this odd round body, that’s why...... 」 「If that’s the case, cut the face and not the body. That’s enough to stop him. 」 The excuse was flatly rejected, Kasha’s shoulders drooped, just like Origa’s. Hifumi’s actions afterward, as far as Kasha and Origa were concerned, would become their trauma in the future. 「Good, now that we have teaching materials here, I will explain a little bit about the structure of the human body. 」 「Eh? Human body’s... structure? 」 「Teaching materials...... Is it? Don’t tell me...... 」magic 「Here we go. At the front of the body is the sternum and here is the spine, these ones here on the sides are the ribs...... 」 「Ulp...... Blegh...... 」 「Uegh!...... Retch...... 」 Hifumi suddenly cut open the body of the thief with a sword, then began to explain the skeletal system. Origa and Kasha started vomiting even before they’d heard the explanation. Fukaroru, the town that Viscount Hagenti governs. The town filled with Origa and Kasha’s bitter memories. A horse-drawn carriage approached the entryway from the highway. A young man riding a large horse trailed behind it. Drawing nearer to the town, Kasha and Origa were made to sit on the coachman’s seat of the carriage. They were wearing mantles, hoods low over their eyes, concealing them. Since they they had the appearance of female drivers who do that to avoid sunlight, the soldiers on Fukaroru’s checkpost did not think it was unnatural. 「 In various ways, it’s good the thieves were already dead..... 」 「 Don’t remind me Kasha. I’m putting my mind and heart in order, please talk about something else. 」 Watching their bile rise, as they were still unused to that feeling, Hifumi was subtly worried. While concluding the open air classroom with an explanation of body parts and the skeletal structure, the two had received serious damage. Primarily the mental kind. If not for the hoods, two ghastly pale and tearful faces would have been seen while driving the carriage. If there was a little more flexibility in their attitudes, maybe they would have been able to brace themselves while arriving at their first destination. They felt like vomiting again if they got fired up, and their feelings of not wanting to get up were strong. Arriving at the entrance of the town, of the two soldiers at the gate, one approached. If it is not the man that Origa and Kasha recognised, a cough was supposed to be given, Hifumi told them to remain silent if it is the one they remembered........ The cough did not come. 「 Stop. The contents of the carriage are to be verified. 」 「 Understood. Since the cargo of this trip is a wooden box containing an Aqua Sapphire, a signature of confirmation is necessary. 」 Unlike the time at the castle town, Hifumi dismounted, and took out a proof of trade for the Aqua Sapphire. 「 Is this the Aqua Sapphire? Yosh, here’s the box. 」 The man opened the box with a strangely practiced hand, unnaturally nodded, closed the wooden box, and signed on the permit. At that instant, Hifumi kicked the man’s abdomen and sent him flying. 「 GUH!? Wh-What are you doing! 」 Quickly approaching the soldier on the ground, Hifumi flipped him while twisting his arm upwards and pinned him to the ground facedown. To the sudden assault, the other soldier at the gate pulled out his sword in a hurry and ran forwards. A cough was heard from Origa and Kasha. 「 You bastard! What are you doing! 」 「 Calm down. This is who I am. 」 The soldier running forward was shown the same permit and coin indicating his rank. Hifumi directed his gaze at the soldier on the ground and inspected his torso. Reluctantly following his gaze, the Aqua Sapphire shone on the soldier’s chest. 「 Th-This is...... Guzafan, you! 」 The man caught by Hifumi seemed to be called Guzafan. The other soldier had an expression of not knowing what to do after the sudden exposure of his colleague’s crime. Putting more power into twisting the soldier’s arm, Hifumi asked him in a low voice 「 There was a circulation permit verifying this jewel, the box is closed, there is this fellow’s signature. Nevertheless, the Aqua Sapphire has appeared from this fellow’s chest...... Well, let’s have the explanation. And whether or not “we” understand, let us see... 」 When Guzafan looked up, Origa and Kasha had taken off their hoods. Their faces brimming with anger, he recognised them. Wielding weapons, filled with strength. 「 Y-You fellows! You were supposed to have fallen into slavery... 」 「 Come now, speak quickly. What’s your excuse for deceiving and turning the tender-hearted me into a scary woman? What could it be, I wonder? 」(Kasha) In contrast to the slaves’ anger, Hifumi laughed loudly.

“Fire. Aim for that mounted fellow as your target.” (Ma) At the moment Okshion’s rebelling army decided that they had taken enough distance and turned their backs onto them, Ma Carme calmly gave that order. “However, it looks they ended up getting away quite a bit...” Ma Carme told the timidly talking messenger without turning his look towards him, “Originally the range of the spear throwers is twice that of just now.” (Ma) “What...?” Just as declared by Ma Carme, the spears, which were fired one after the other, accurately pierce the enemy who was at a distance where it would be difficult to take proper aim with arrows. Receiving the unexpected attack from their rear, the enemy army began to escape in total disorder with a vigour that was even higher than at the time they came to attack. “Was the confusion a bit too much? We ended up causing troubles to Earl Biron who was entrusted with arresting that lot.” (Ma) Ma Carme smiled wryly while scratching his head with a tough and thick finger. “Amazing... you sent away an enemy numbers strong with just soldiers.” “Uh-oh, aren’t you misunderstanding something?” (Ma) “Tss tss”, Ma Carme shakes his finger. “If you plan it normally, the difference in numbers will be an essential component connecting to victory or defeat. This time we just had time to prepare due to the early contact and that this lot was a gathering of amateurs who had no familiarity with the atmosphere of battles.” (Ma) “But, if you look at the outcome, isn’t the size of your achievement something unmeasurable?” “That’s foolish. With our side just chasing them away, the one who fought them after having sent most of the soldiers is Earl Biron. If it’s about achievements, the most should go to Earl Biron.” (Ma) “Rather than that”, Ma Carme observed the routed enemy army returning to the highway in order to flee and ordered his soldiers to take a bare minimum of a defensive stance and to retreat to the national border together with the spear throwers. “If the fellows, who came streaming our way, are gone, it will be the end for now.” (Ma) “I want to quickly return to Foklore and see Director Alyssa’s face”, Ma Carme complained. “Shall we try withdrawing temporarily once we finished conveying the situation to the lot from Horant?” Lining up with the spear throwers, which were transported while placed on the rattling platform wagon, with their backs facing each other, Ma Carme and the messenger headed towards Horant’s border. ☺☻☺ At the moment Okshion judged that they had taken enough distance from the enemy in the direction of Horant, their awareness completely shifted to Biron’s army in the back.magic “We are already outside the range of the enemy from just before! Annihilate the enemy in the back without minding them!” (Okshion) It was at the instant he drew his sword and gave the order to attack after changing the direction of his horse. A spear, which was fired upon Ma Carme’s command, penetrated Okshion’s stomach from behind. The scattered blood pours down on a soldier walking next to him making him raise a scream. “G-General!” His adjutant, who came back from the rear just then, advances his horse towards Okshion who was skewered in front of his eyes. The surrounding soldiers getting away from Okshion to escape proved to be fortunate and the adjutant was immediately able to get close to Okshion, who fell from his horse. Due to the soldiers, who panicked in fear, not having an ounce of intention to face their fallen general, the adjutant ground his molars. “General!” At the time the adjutant took out the spear from the fallen Okshion and lifted him around so that he was facing upwards, the blood was already drained from Okshion’s face and he was opening and closing his bluish-white lips in order to breath in gasps. When he took out the spear, the bleeding increased even more. Intestines were also mixed in the spilling thick blood. “Ah... here, at, such place...” (Okshion) “Please stay firm! I will get you treated in the rear right away!” While saying that, even the adjutant noticed that Okshion will likely die. “R-Run, away... gebuuh!” (Okshion) Okshion, who gave his final order while his gaze was vacantly staring into empty space unable to focus any longer, violently coughed up blood and passed away. Even during that time, panicking soldiers, who are pierced by spears, collapse in the surroundings. There are even some who fainted while being unable to bear the dread and those who try pretending that they have died. It looks like only the enemy is still standing. “... Everyone, evacuate in the direction of Biron Earldom at full speed! Run until the spears can’t reach you anymore! Get running if you don’t want to die!” While shouting to no one in particular, the adjutant jumped on his horse once again and retreated from this spear-raining hell. [Owned by Infinite Novel Translations!] Of course he was well aware that the number of enemies being in that direction was far higher than at Horant’s border. In that case it will probably be somewhat easier for the feelings of the soldiers to find a means of escape within their own nation “Even so...” The adjutant turned a fleeting glance towards the back. On the other side of his allied soldiers, who are running with a frantic look while spilling tears and nasal mucus, he can slightly see around ten soldiers. “I heard that the soldiers of Horant are strong at magic, but what the hell happened here?” Even though he considered it inevitable after thinking about it, a strange, mean mischief was stuck in a corner of his mind. Balzephon, who stood up in front of Hifumi, caused a vibration, that made the highway tremble, with his irritation which was changed into a war cry. “Although it was more powerful than the shout of that demon”, Hifumi grasps his katana while laughing frivolously. “Kill the guy in front of you if you are going to get angry. Get rid of the annoying guy if you can’t do as you want. Only a baby is allowed to stay in a state of bawling.” (Hifumi) “Thus kill me”, Hifumi roars. “Uuuuuuuuh...” (Balzephon) “It would probably be easy if you could kill an enemy by just glaring at them. However, that would be boring, wouldn’t it?” (Hifumi) Hifumi got into a stance of aiming at the eyes while placing his right foot in the direction the the katana’s point. Balzephon who began to gather his blood and to reconnect the smashed head, glares at Hifumi while letting his long arms dangle loosely. “I will kill you because I want to. Well then, both of us were able to affirm our justifications. Your injury has probably healed as well. Shall we resume?” (Hifumi) At the moment he slid his left foot forward by just a half step, Balzephon brought down both his arms from overhead to crush Hifumi. “Aye, how exciting.” (Hifumi) Higumi tried to lop off an arm coming downwards, but Balzephon suddenly halted both his arms and Hifumi’s katana stopped at the same time as well. “Gaaah!” (Hifumi) Immediately Balzephon’s front kick sinks into Hifumi’s belly like a hammered stake. Hifumi falls down to the back due to being kicked and half-rises his body while breathing out. The certain feeling of having broken bones was transmitted to his hand when he strongly drove in the pommel into the lower leg that was in front of his eyes. Unable to keep his balance due to the the broken leg, Balzephon tumbles, but even Hifumi ended up getting sent flying around five meters to the back. Fixing his breathing with a cough, Hifumi felt a stabbing pain, but after diagnosing himself that no bones were broken, he corrected the hold of his katana. Balzephon, who’s foot healed during that time, stands up slowly. “The structure of your body is basically the same. I realized that from cutting you earlier. Even the intestines, which came out, are no different of those of a person.” (Hifumi) Balzephon swings his right hand at Hifumi who approaches defencelessly, but lowering himself slightly, Hifumi cuts at empty space from overhead. Once Hifumi kicks away the elbow of the passing-by arm with all his strength, Balzephon spins around and turns his back towards Hifumi. “Yo.” He cuts at the neck by slicing it horizontally from behind. At the moment he reached the point of having cleaved open the neck halfway after severing the muscles swelling on Balzephon’s grown shoulders, Balzephon forcibly grabs the katana with his left hand and stops it. “Although you ended up in an unnatural stance due to turning around towards the back forcibly, your strong point is your great physical power enabling you to rein in the motion of the katana despite it”, Hifumi became delighted. [Read this at Infinite Novel Translations!] Because he has grabbed close to the metal collar mounted between the blade and the hand guard where the sharpness is dull, Hifumi is unable to lose the grip by cutting through it alongside the hand. “Uoh!?” Although Balzephon tried to snatch the katana first, it didn’t work out and reluctantly pulling out the katana from his body he thrust away Hifumi’s body as if loathing it. While continuing to glare at each other after picking up some distance, Hifumi noticed something. “Ooh, that’s right. That is just right to test it out.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, took the katana into just his right hand, bit at the middle finger of the glove covering only his left hand. He pulls it off his left hand just like that. “Uuuh...” (Balzephon) The sun, which started to sink, should have dyed that left hand in red, but as if having been repeatedly been painted in black or as if it was cut out of a frame, Hifumi’s left had was pitch black. Does Balzephon realize its bizarreness? He continues to groan lowly while having his gaze stolen by that left hand. “This seems to still be able to do various things, but I had no opportunity to test it out properly. Be relieved, it’s no poison.” (Hifumi) Raising a loud laughter, Hifumi took a stance of hiding the katana in his right hand behind his body and stuck out his left hand in front. Balzephon hesitated for a short while, but once he grasps that no attack is coming, he rushes towards Hifumi by himself once again. Balzephon, who knew that a largely-swung attack will be avoided, makes use of his nails on both hands and releases a sharp thrust. “??” Balzephon’s eyes opened widely and became round due to surprise. His own nails, which should have easily pierced something at the level of a human body, were stopped with a bare hand by the small human in front of him. “Surprised, right?” (Hifumi) Smiling impishly, Hifumi struck both hands of Balzephon with his black left hand. With his fingers becoming mostly mush, Balzephon screamed while rolling around on the ground holding both his hands. Hifumi nodded satisfied while opening and clutching his left hand. “It’s a shame that I can’t feel the pain of the hitting fist, but there’s no problem with its toughness.” (Hifumi) Hifumi stabbed the katana into the ground against Balzephon who tries to sink in a kick against Hifumi’s feet while on the floor. The blade’s edge digs into the approaching right leg. Having his own lower leg being sent flying after being cut from the shin, Balzephon once again ended up tumbling around on the ground in an unsightly manner. Raising his face while groaning, he searches for his right foot which should have been sent flying, but he can’t find it. “This is what you are looking for, right?” (Hifumi) The black left hand of Hifumi, who called out to him, is grasping Balzephon’s foot. “It’s regrettable, but this is confiscated.” (Hifumi) The dripping blood of the cut end is completely absorbed into the palm of his left hand and the foot is slowly swallowed up to the toes just like that. Balzephon watched that dumbfoundedly, but placing both hands on the ground after the wounds were healed, he approached Hifumi savagely with both arms and one leg. “It’s the same as storage magic, just so that you know.” (Hifumi) Stopping a thrust with his left hand again, he breaks the elbow of Balzephon’s left arm with the katana’s pommel. He grasps the end of the broken arm with his left hand, however this time it doesn’t get absorbed. “Living things are no good. ... If you don’t dismember them, that is.” (Hifumi) Once he shifted the katana in a smooth, quick motion, Balzephon’s left hand was easily cut off. This time it was swallowed by Hifumi’s left hand starting with the fingertips while causing conspicuous sounds. “If it’s simple “things” that aren’t alive, it goes like this. So, even though I will kill you from here on out, what method do you prefer?” (Hifumi) [Copyright by Infinite Novel Translations!] Even though he had lost his left hand and right leg, Balzephon, who is looked down upon by Hifumi, wobbly stands up and injures himself with his own nails by grasping his right hand tightly. “Guuuuu...” (Balzephon) The blood, which drops down, spread out on the ground. “Your blood is red, eh? If you look at magic and demi-humans from the standpoint of a normal human who came from somewhere else like me, it looks like monsters and human aren’t that different from each other.” (Hifumi) Returning the katana into its scabbard, Hifumi smacked his lips as his right hand became free as well. “Although it’s amusing, every last of them is crazy.” (Hifumi) Doing the skilful act of leaping with one leg, the right hand of Balzephon, which was swung down while placing all his body’s weight behind it, had its wrist caught by Hifumi in reverse and Balzephon fell victim to him being thrown over Hifumi’s shoulder. While holding onto the thrown arm, Hifumi, who rolled over on top of Balzephon belly, decided to twist the arm and trampled down on Balzephon’s chest. “Since you have this much strength, you might not be knowledgeable of losing to scheming.” (Hifumi) He breaks the joints of the shoulder and elbow without any reservation. Balzephon resisted by flapping his leg, but due to being pressured by Hifumi’s foot which was filled with even more strength, the bones of his chest began to creak. “Having a weapon, a special move or technique is something good. The same applies to magic, your nails and your physical ability, I guess.” (Hifumi) Separating the broken right arm, Hifumi peers into the face of Balzephon whose posture has bent forward even more. “But you know, since you stopped at that point, you will die here. If they have abilities or tools, you have to frantically come up with plenty of methods to kill a person who uses those.” (Hifumi) Hifumi draws out his katana and thrusts the blade underneath the neck of Balzephon who glares at him while having collapsed looking upwards. “The method of cutting the neck of a fallen opponent isn’t just swinging the katana downwards from above at all.” (Hifumi) Grabbing the head of the groaning Balzephon, Hifumi slid the blade across the neck of Balzephon while drawing Balzephon towards himself. “Gii...” (Balzephon) Switching to a sound of death agony and spouting out foam from his mouth halfway through, his severed body once again fell to the ground. Even after just the head was left, Balzephon opens and closes his mouth while staring at Hifumi as if cursing him. “I see, you’ve got quite the life force. It’s extremely regrettable that I can’t kill you, but let me use you gratefully in that case.” (Hifumi) [Owned by Infinite Novel Translations!] Deploying his darkness storage, Hifumi recovered the headless corpse and faced Balzephon’s head which he carried in one hand. “Let’s pretend that you were an assassin sent by the new demon king.” (Hifumi) Once he nimbly wrapped the head in a suitable amount of cloth from his storage, he looked for the horse which waited at a distance and returned towards Fokalore with a good mood while thinking

Having put knights to the sword, Hifumi is sheathing the katana in the scabbard on his back very contentedly. Imeraria timidly made an appearance from within the shadows of the bed. Although he senses her movements, Hifumi doesn’t even look at Imeraria as if not caring about her existence at all. As she shifts her line of sight to the corner of the room, where Hifumi had sent her mother flying before, she saw the queen’s corpse. Observing her mother having died while displaying a reproachful facial expression, Imeraria was confused whether it was fine to mourn or to rejoice. Looking at her own room ornamented with splatters of blood, she is re-thinking how it came to this. Together with Hifumi, Imeraria ended up announcing her intention of inheriting the crown in front of the populace. The very same day, after quickly finishing her work, she returned to her bedroom. “Why has such thing... ?” (Imeraria) Changing into a light red night-gown, Imeraria sat down on the bed and heaved a long sigh. With a terribly worn-out mood, she feels her heavy shoulders. “I wonder what the hell he is thinking?” (Imeraria) Imeraria still can’t comprehend Hifumi’s thought process. Obviously the reason isn’t that he wants to become the king. Going by the information from the Knight Unit, it seems that he has ended up entrusting the administration of his territory, with only a few policies, to the civil officials. Furthermore, even reducing the overall tax rate and reaching the point that the territorial soldiers are close to the masses, his reputation amongst the majority of the populace appears to be good. Although he is using a lot of funds for the development of weapons and such, it isn’t like he is particularly living in luxury. If he has spare time, he will look around strolling through the city. Many people have witnessed him doing such things as practicing his swordsmanship. “He is a feudal lord who is fair and kind towards the populace and doesn’t shirk away from putting in effort for the sake of protecting the people.” That seems to be the evaluation being held by many people about Hifumi. As that assessment is totally different from the one she came to see and hear about, Imeraria can’t suddenly believe that this is the same person they are talking about. “Do you hate the royalty and nobles?” (Imeraria) Even though she pondered about that, she had also received a report stating that he had killed a considerable number of the slum’s inhabitants. Simply put, without concerning himself about social status and official position, there doesn’t seem to be any deciding factor but only whether or not one is hindering him. That summed it up entirely. Having obtained the support of the masses, there is no one else as difficult to deal with as that lunatic. If she removes him unskillfully, she will end up being viewed as villain here. The lost Imeraria’s ears pick up the sound of knocking. “What’s the matter?” (Imeraria) There was a maid waiting for orders in front of the bedroom, but she entered nervously. “That is... Earl Tohno has come...” (Maid) Towards the baffled maid, Imeraria sighed for the umpteenth time today. “Visiting the room of an unmarried woman at night-time... It doesn’t matter, please let him through.” (Imeraria) “However...” (Maid) The maid seems to be worrying about the danger and rumors of letting a man enter the princess’ bedroom, but Imeraria doesn’t care about Hifumi’s lack of common sense anymore. “There is no problem. It still can be called good that he didn’t just come and enter forcibly.” (Imeraria) “That’s a reprehensible way of talking about someone.” (Hifumi) Pushing the maid aside, Hifumi entered. He is carrying some large package on his shoulders. “Receiving my ill manners is something called minimal resistance. And? What might that be?” (Imeraria) “Before that.” (Hifumi) Interrupting Imeraria’s words, Hifumi turned around to the maid. “Get in touch with the Third Knight Unit and tell them to come here. Let’s see... Call out to the nearby Midas and tell him to come here armed for the sake of guarding.” (Hifumi) As the maid is darting her eye’s about due to suddenly receiving orders, Imeraria commanded her to do as she was told. With the maid leaving the place after bowing, Hifumi tosses the package, he was carrying, on top of the bed. The long and narrow object was thrashing around on the bed. “...!” “Oh, it woke up.” (Hifumi) “This... is it a living creature?” (Imeraria) Imeraria instinctively jumped back from the bed and hid herself in Hifumi’s shadow. “There isn’t any need to be so scared. It’s your mother after all, I guess?” (Hifumi) Although the queen’s hair was disheveled and her clothes were stripped off, she was glaring at Hifumi in a condition of having her hands tied behind her back and a gag forced into her mouth. “M-Mother?!” (Imeraria) As Hifumi removed the gag, a scream burst out from her. “Behaving in such manner towards me, do you really think this will finish peacefully!” (Queen) “Hi-Hifumi-sama, why did you do such a... ?” (Imeraria) Imeraria grabbed Hifumi’s arm. The queen changed the target of her verbal attack, of what she thought about this treatment, towards her daughter. “Imeraria! I never expected you to use such a sort of way! To seduce a man into doing something like binding your mother... Finally you showed your true feelings because you are aiming for the crown!” (Queen) “Mother...” (Imeraria) Due to her mother scowling at her with a bloodcurdling facial expression, even Imeraria lacks any words. “That’s how it is. Somehow this fellow wants the prince to succeed the crown one way or another rather than Imeraria.” (Hifumi) The queen snapped once again at Hifumi, saying this as if it is someone else’s problem. “Be quiet! You king-slaying, seriously criminal, person! You are a fool pretending to be a noble without even having officially been conferred the title by the king!” (Queen) “Is that so?” (Hifumi) “... If it’s the kingdom’s law, then there will be no problem with being appointed to the rank of a territorial noble. As for the usual procedure, only the king would be able to do that, but...” (Imeraria) “In other words, her criticism is irrelevant.” (Hifumi) , since it simply was “revenge” for Hifumi, he apparently doesn’t believe this to be a wrongdoing. Well then, Hifumi’s story is: while considering how to deal with the current problem for the succession of the throne, the prince faction was in the process of setting up an ambush within the castle. He found out that the queen had ordered the First Knight Unit to assassinate Imeraria. Therefore, once the entire knight unit exited the room, he restrained the queen. Without believing in this story, Imeraria looked at the queen, but the queen didn’t deny it. “It is only appropriate for Ayperos to succeed the throne. Imeraria, above inviting someone, who plunged this country into a crisis, to come into the castle, you are unforgivably scheming to usurp the country itself!” (Queen) Imeraria felt as if she had been plunged into darkness. For the sake of protecting the peace of this country, she is desperate. So that the country doesn’t scatter into pieces due to losing its king, she is frantically thinking. Even though she should have acted. After her mother had collapsed, for the sake of her yet youthful and helpless brother, she somehow got until here while also struggling. “So, what will you do?” (Hifumi) Imeraria came to her senses due to Hifumi’s question. “What, as in... ?” (Imeraria) “At present it feels like she is your enemy rather than mine. Since it will also be troublesome if she keeps yapping about usurpation, I brought her here for the time being.” (Hifumi) Rather than getting angry she is astonished about Hifumi pridefully being concerned about her. “Such thing like being an enemy...” (Imeraria) “This fellow wants to kill you. How can you not call her an enemy?” (Hifumi) “That is...” (Imeraria) Suddenly and forcefully drawing his face close, Imeraria can’t continue talking. “Also, if you keep her alive as is, I am certain it will turn into a domestic conflict between your and the prince’s faction within the castle. The confrontation will continue on the surface and behind the scenes. The ones receiving the brunt of that will be the maids and menservants, or in other words, the populace.” (Hifumi) ( Speaking towards Hifumi’s conveniences, if there are fewer operating the country, it will also become easy to control the law, to sum it up in a sentence. But he purposely left that unsaid. “If this fellow survives, she will become the prince’s supporter one way or the other and be a hindrance to me, I am sure. If this fellow doesn’t exist, it might be possible that the prince becomes obedient as well. In that situation, I am confident that you will be able to establish the stable political system you desire.” (Hifumi) Imeraria pondered about it while chewing her lower lip to degree of blood running down. It becomes an escape in that way and after consolidating her thoughts, she squeezed out her voice. “It is impossible for me...” (Imeraria) The queen’s expression displayed that this was only natural, but before long her face turned pale due to the following words. “Therefore, I want to leave the decision to Hifumi, but...” (Imeraria) “A-Are you abandoning your mother!” (Queen) Imeraria thought. It was a mortifying decision, but she was able to consent with her current words. “Then I won’t hold back.” (Hifumi) Hifumi drew his katana and struck the thin neck of the queen, laying on the bed, with the back of his katana. Having her neck broken, the queen died with wide opened eyes. “I wonder if that really was a good thing... ?” (Imeraria) “I think it is still too early for you to decide that.” (Hifumi) Hifumi lifted Imeraria at her waist and threw her down on the opposite side of the bed. “Kyaa!” (Imeraria) Hiding the queen’s corpse within the futon, he shuts the canopy’s curtains. “Stay hidden for a while. There are several people coming this way here. Probably it is the lot from the First Knight Unit, coming to kill you.” (Hifumi) “Midas’ group didn’t make it in time, huh?” Hifumi grumbled. “Such...” (Imeraria) Usually the knight unit is bound to protect her, having been told about them coming to kill her was something she couldn’t yet comprehend within her mind. “Because I will be protecting you for now, desperately think about how you want to change your surroundings and what would be fine to do after this. The matter about inciting Pajou; the intention was good but the plan to execute it was inept.” (Hifumi) Being abruptly praised, Imeraria floated a facial expression of suspicion. “Without that the degree of backbone, it will be impossible for you to survive the wars starting after this. I wonder whether you want to exact your revenge upon me one day? If that’s the case, don’t trip at this place. I want you to show your desperate will to survive until your blade reaches me.” (Hifumi) Clenching her teeth with a grinding sound, Imeraria fixed her eyes on Hifumi. “Yes, that’s fine. Anything’s fine, even anger. A like-minded person, having a volition, will certainly clash with me. There has to be a meaning in killing each other. It has to be enjoyable.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, pretending to not see Imeraria, drew his katana and ecstatically looked at the hamon. ( The footsteps of several people stop in front of the room. When Midas and Sabnak arrived at Imeraria’s bedroom, after struggling along the way, it was the exact moment when Hifumi left the room. Hifumi, fighting with an enemy that gave some kind of resistance, had a truly refreshed facial expression even though it was night. “Too late. I already took care of all the prey.” (Hifumi)magic “She’s inside. Watch your steps as there are corpses scattered all over.” (Hifumi) While wondering what his kindness was about, Midas entered the room. Though simple, the bedroom was provided with high-class furnishing. A great number of blood-stained corpses were spread on the floor. Even the miserable figure of the queen is amongst those. “Hear about the circumstances from Imeraria. I am off.” (Hifumi) “You are off, you say? Where to?” (Sabnak) Seeing off Hifumi, who was passing through the corridor while leisurely shouldering the katana, Sabnak shook his head with a face full of astonishment. “Haven’t the knight units been decreased around half with today? No, wait, the Second is absent, so the decrement is only one-third.” (Sabnak) “Are you joking around in this situation? Please guide Imeraria-sama to the spare bedroom. We will keep guarding without change until morning.” (Midas) “... Though it would be nice if it were just joking around.” (Sabnak) Someone’s scream could be heard from the other side of the corridor. “Thus, since Hifumi-sama will be cleaning the trash out within the king’s castle after this, please make you rounds so that the trash doesn’t escape.” (Origa) Suddenly coming to their office and even detaining those, with the exception of the knights on duty, wanting to go back, against their will, Origa gave the gathered knights of the Third Knight Unit an order under the pretense of it being an explanation. Because all of them were aware what kind of standing the girl in front of them has, they abide obediently, as resisting it would be unwise, while having disgruntled thoughts. “That... it is already time for me to go home...” (Female Knight) “Not allowed.” (Origa) With her colleagues consoling her to give up, the female knight sat down in resignation. “Currently the castle is divided into the prince faction and the princess faction. It looks like the First Knight Unit is part of the prince faction. Going by Hifumi-sama’s explanation, it seems to be very likely that the First Knight Unit will move tonight in order to assassinate the princess.” (Origa) “Whaat!” “I don’t believe such foolishness. Not even as a joke. They are in the position of protecting the royal castle.” Origa claps her hands in order to calm down the bewildered knights. “At any rate, seeing that Hifumi-sama decided to make Imeraria-sama the queen, they will simply die if they turn hostile. As for the Third Knight Unit, you were given the role of restraining those trying to flee from the castle. Your location will be even further outside than the castle’s gate, which is guarded by the First Knight Unit.” (Origa) Opening the iron-ribbed fan, she had retrieved from within her bosom, Origa is slowly swinging it for the sake of fanning the face while talking. “B-But...” “Even if it is Lord Tohno’s instruction, behaving as if hostile to a fellow knight unit...” Origa interrupted the mumbling words of refusal with the closing of her iron-ribbed fan. “As if hostile, that’s not it, you already are hostile to them. Or are you one of the prince’s faction? In short, as far as Hifumi-sama is concerned, you already are an enemy...” (Origa) Seeing the hand holding the iron-ribbed fan being filled with strength at a glance, the elder knights went out ahead. “Please wait! I will follow Imeraria-sama’s will. Haven’t you called Midas’ group for that sake as well?” “That’s right. Besides, there isn’t any need to fight. During the time Hifumi-sama cleans the castle’s interior, it will be alright as long as no people enter or leave the castle. Also, please tidy up tomorrow morning.” (Origa) Any more sweetness dripping out from Origa’s cheerful smiling will be dreadful, the knights thought. “Thanks to Hifumi-sama, the Third Knight Unit will take care of Imeraria very closely within the king’s castle. You will likely reach the point of being treated as very influential war potential.” (Origa) “In addition,” Origa continues. “If you are able to accept making an effort here in doing your job properly with a mindset of cooperation, then Hifumi-sama will kindly overlook the actions of the Third Knight Unit the other day, understand?” (Origa) ‘Though I won’t forgive you’, Origa’s eyes told them. In this way the Third Knight Unit got stuck with standing watch at the royal castle without a wink of sleep until the next morning.

Hifumi doesn’t sympathize with Origa and Kasha’s feelings. Regardless he bought the stuff they needed for the trip one after another without, just putting it into the Dark Hole storage as he went onto the next shop. Origa and Kasha seemed to have been in a bad mood, answering Hifumi’s question about traveling in this world in rapid succession, while busily choosing different merchandise.magic “Tent, firewood, cooking utensils and......maybe a torch just in case.” “Master, I have a question about your Dark Hole storage, does it have enough capacity......” Generally, one is said to have a good level in the darkness system if one’s storage space is m, though that level has already been exceeded. 「 Aa, there’s still a considerable amount of space, if I sensed it correctly. 」 「 Not just the sword, master is amazing at magic as well. 」 「 I can use only Dark magic. Come to think of it, half of the castle’s treasury is in my storage. Even so, not even /th is filled. The entire carriage will fit, but the horse is no good. 」 「 Entire carriage..... 」 Already unable to take pride in her level, Origa’s common sense no longer mattered. Kasha, not knowing the details, simply commented 「 Amazing 」. 「 Well then, let’s buy the carriage and horses. You two, can you ride horses? 」 「 I can drive a carriage. 」 「 Me too, I can handle it a little bit...... 」 Answering the two, Hifumi shook his head. 「 Not a carriage, I’m talking about riding a horse. The carriage can only be used to play for a while. 」 「 To play........? 」 「 Aa, I thought of it after listening to your story. Well, look forward to it. Leaving that aside, horses it is then. I don’t want a leisurely trip by carriage, worrying about the luggage. Everyone will make the trip on horseback. 」 While they were walking towards the stables, Kasha frantically stopped Hifumi. 「 Wait a minute master, neither Origa nor I have ridden a horse before! Moreover, wouldn’t it be more expensive in the long run to have to change horses at intervals? 」 Hifumi was clearly disappointed at Kasha’s words. 「 Eh~...... Well then, after the tomorrow morning’s fighting practice, the afternoon will consist of horse riding practice. 」 「 S-Seriously..... 」 Hifumi looked sternly at the speechless Kasha. 「 It is the basics of cavalry battles. Once arrows are spent, horses are tired, spears snap, swords break, you are left empty-handed. Subduing martial arts is a matter of course. 」 「 Battle? Has master been training in order to see battle? 」 「 Nn..... train so that if caught up in a war, you have the ability to protect yourselves, no matter what happens.」 Saying so, Hifumi took out gold coins from the Dark Hole and passed them to Kasha. 「 Wh-What do I do with so much money! 」 「 Buy groceries. Also get somewhat large quantities of salt and sugar. Enough to last for 0 days with three meals a day. Don’t worry about it rotting, I’ll be putting it in storage. 」 「 Master, even with a carriage, it is 5 days to the Vichy border.... 」 「 Moreover, can master carry such an amount? 」 「 The quantity is large. The food is not just for eating. Getting someone to carry the luggage to the inn will also cost money. 」 Saying he would get the horses and carriage, Hifumi separated from the two. Facing the castle, Kasha felt somewhat anxious. 「 Kasha, let’s go and buy the required goods. 」 「 Isn’t Origa uneasy? 」 「 I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t uneasy, but somehow I feel that it’s not that bad. Moreover, I have faith in him and can do nothing but follow for now. 」 「 Is that so... 」 The Knights were enjoying their tea and did not notice the station door opening soundlessly. 「 Yo. 」 「 Buho !.....Geho, geho.... 」 Seeing Hifumi suddenly sit down in front of her eyes, Pajou performed a magnificent spit take. 「 ......You came here.」(Pajou) 「 Is it that astonishing? Really, for a lady to do something like this...... 」 Quickly cleaning the table dirtied by her choking, the teary-eyed Pajou regained her composure while sitting back down. 「 Since there are factions that are hostile to you, I did not want you to come here. 」 「 I only remove those who get in my way, so it’s fine. 」 Hearing him say it’s fine, Pajou sighed, telling the lady attendant of the station to bring two cups of tea, since the contents of her own cup was gone. The other Knights listened at a distance. 「 So, why the sudden visit? 」 「 Horses and a carriage. Regarding the request you brought, regarding the country making the preparations? Three horses, I’d like to choose them. 」 「 ......Is the carriage unnecessary? 」 「 No, though we will be primarily riding the horses, we’ll use the carriage occasionally. Prepare a carriage with a canopy, drawn by two horses. 」 Seeing Pajou’s dumbfounded face, Hifumi smirked, the corners of his mouth rising slightly. Wetting his throat with the tea, Hifumi spoke. 「 Though trifling, for example, the Viscount in the Marquis’ faction, what about him? 」 「 Viscount Hagenti. 」 The relationship between the Viscount and Marquis was said to be an “Open secret of High society”, though there were some business dealings, there was no public connection. Therefore, after Marquis Raghlain was arrested, Viscount Hagenti was not charged with any crimes. Viscount Hagenti governs the territory near Vichy, though his martial prowess is nonexistent, he was said to be shrewd man. 「What is the name of the town where the incident happened?」 「The town of Fukaroru. It’s halfway to Vinchy...... What do you intend to do there?」 「Maa, I just want to play around and have some fun」 「Pajou scowled when Hifumi didn’t answer her directly 」 「...... I doubt that’s the end of it, however, I understand your request. I will make preparations for the carriage. It will be placed in the inn’s depot. Since the horse track is at a different location, do you want me to guide you there?」 「Please do」 Pajou stood up at Hifumi’s answer, a big guy near her side wearing an armor of the Knights Corps called out to her. 「Is that the guy that the announcement said we’re forbidden from antagonizing? The one favored by the princess?」 「What do you want Gothras?」 「I don’t have any business with you. I do have business with that kid」 His height is around 180cm, even with the armor you can see the trained muscles. Having a beard on his face, he was grinning while glaring at Hifumi. 「Wait. Do you have anything to say to him? Imeria-sama instructed us not to do so」 「I’m not going to be hostile. I just want to see a little bit what kind of guy he is. What’s so good about a gangly brat like him? This will make Third Knight Corps lose face, does he look that strong to you? 」 Blatantly insulting, for Pajou it was an insult to the Third Knight Corps, not to Hifumi personally but to the Knight Corps itself. An act that can potentially make you a traitor to this country. As for the other Knights who were inside the station, they were keeping their distance and watching the situation. They all look tense, contemplating whether or not to pull out their weapons The Second Knight Corps is an elite military unit who deals with maintaining security and public order. The First Knight Corps stationed in the castle are also an intelligence unit, but are deployed anywhere, unlike the Third Knights Corps. They’re all dedicated to their jobs and many of them are hot-headed, Gothras included. Besides, the Nobles in the Castle, the civil service employees and the military officers tend to dislike anyone given special treatment regardless of strength and or achievements. 「......Such an incompetent person judging by their appearance, you’d be more useful singing. Is there enough money in the kingdom’s budget to be able to employ such an incompetent man? 」 Hifumi’s question was directed towards Pajou, completely ignoring Gothras. By the way, regarding the financial situation of Orson Grande, the prime minister has taken control of the national assets and a few works of art were sold. 「Incompetent you say? This brat got arrogant from having a preferential treatment. Princess’ pet...... 」 Gothras wasn’t able to finish his sentence as he fell down in one knee while shaking his head. 「You can’t even avoid an attack of this level. You might not even understand it. You’re weak and stupid.」 A light blow of striking under the chin with a thrust of the palm is enough to make someone dizzy and unable to stand. The other knights didn’t understand what just happened, they’re completely confused and don’t know what to do. 「Let’s go Pajou」 「Wha, What......」 「Wait!!」 Facing Hifumi who turned around, Gothras stood up unsteadily while drawing his sword out with his shaky hands 「Pajou」 「Ye- Yes!」 「Did that guy pull out a sword? What would you do?」 Pajou was momentarily confused, but she realised that it was Hifumi’s timely assist. She shouted out to all the surrounding knights. 「Everyone, draw you sword!」 It seems they are trained properly. Everyone who heard Pajou’s voice pulled out their sword and took a stance. 「That’s right Pajou. Us knights must not be underestimated.We have to teach this guy the difference in our positions」 Gothras grinned but, Pajou gave an order that is opposite of what he expected. 「Everyone, surround Gothras! Arrest him in violation of the order given by Imeraria-sama」 「What!?」 Barely recovered from his dizziness, Gothras opened his eye wide and glared at the nearby knights but it’s already too late as he was already surrounded, He stared at Pajou with killing intent. 「You traitor!」 「It’s you who is the traitor, Gothras. Those who defy the order from the royal family for selfish reasons are not suitable to be Knights. Obediently drop your weapon and let your hands be tied down.」 Clenching his teeth as he trembles in anger towards Hifumi rather than Pajou, Gothras recklessly attacked. 「Gothras!」 「What did you say bastard!」 He was able to shake free from Pajou’s restraint in one blow, went passed by Hifumi’s front but was knocked down to the floor. 「Ah? What are you doing!」 Hifumi visibly trampled on the body as he went down. This messed up Gothras sense of distance, he slashed towards him hitting nothing but empty air. Hifumi stepped on the sword, grasped a small blade and thrust it to into Gothras’ elbow pit, through the thin muscle. With his arm incapacitated he dropped the sword, then the pommel of the small blade was driven through Gothras’ forehead. Gothra’s eyes turned white as he fell down, the Knights tied him up immediately 「......I entrust the cleanup to you」 「You have our gratitude」 Pajou bowed down elegantly at Hifumi’s remark while he returned the small blade to his breast pocket 「Aa, and so...... 」 「Yes」 While still bowing down, Pajou was nervous at what he was going to say. If he is going to vent his anger, she can’t stop him from meeting Imeraria to personally scold her. 「Please teach my slaves, Origa and Kasha, how to ride a horse tomorrow 」 「Waa~...... a, um, it’s my pleasure to instruct them 」 「It’s good that you willingly assent. Because those girls are quite strong, you might as well be strict to them for a week」 Thinking that it was all about work, Pajou dropped her shoulders in relief. Then during these seven days, it is very harsh for Origa and Kasha. During morning, Hifumi lectures them on the on how muscles are connected to the human skeletal system, while tormenting them during practice. Particularly, Pajou’s fighting spirit was unusual. While constantly changing horses, she was able to force the knights horse riding training course (which usually takes 30 days) onto them in only 7 days. Thus, the afternoons became completely free time for Hifumi, so he went shopping, and requested new weapons from Thorn. 「Tools and food are ok. Now to select a horse...... Ah, I know」 Hifumi walks around town while confirming the contents of their luggage, he suddenly stopped and turned around, he called out a young man. 「Hey, I want you to relay a message to Pajou or Midas」 「Eh!? How, how did you...... 」 「I immediately knew based on how the Knights walk. It’s good for me if you’re trained in marching, but you have to think about it a little more if you want to blend in」 While wearing the expression of smiling while crying, the young knight remembered what Midas said to him 「If you are exposed, be at ease」 「I understand. What is it that I need to relay?」 「Since I was already paid, there is something I want you to prepare 」 The knight took out a piece of parchment from his breast pocket, prepared his writing materials, which were pieces of charcoal wrapped in cloth, and got ready to write. 「One Aqua Sapphire. Many have appeared on the market so the size must be excellent. Certificate of Purchase under my name with Authorization Letter from the Kingdom 」 「Why these things......」 「The person who profited by swindling the partner, he’s quite the one trick pony」 That’s why those who stop thinking are useless. Hifumi looked towards the castle.

“Ouch, ouch!” (Sabnak) Ignoring Sabnak who rolls around on top of the platform wagon due to the pain caused by the lash, Imeraria sent for the nearby Alyssa. “What is it?” (Alyssa) “It seems like you don’t have any longer intention to learn polite speech... well, I guess that’s fine. Have you heard anything from Hifumi-sama?” (Imeraria) “No, nothing.” (Alyssa) Alyssa shakes her head. It appears that she was just left behind at the time of Kuzemu’s abduction and sent back here. “... Then, what does Hifumi-sama want us to do?” (Imeraria) “He explained that clearly, didn’t he? He told us to do our best since he prepared a location which we have to capture while risking our lives, right?” (Alyssa) Due to Alyssa tilting her head and asking “What are you talking about?”, Imeraria, who grasped the lash tightly to a degree that it changed into the shape of the character U, corrected her sitting on the chair. “Let me change the question. What do you think will happen inside that castle?” (Imeraria) “Who knows. I think we will understand once we go there, but... let’s send someone as scout?” (Alyssa) When Imeraria shifted her look to Nelgal who is nearby, she could see Nelgal shaking his head with a sigh mixed in. “... Please, I leave it to you.” (Nelgal) Originally it should probably be Horant’s side’s task to send scouts, but those, who possess such skills, currently don’t exist anywhere but Fokalore. If Origa was here, it might have been possible to investigate with echolocation, but an user, who can use such particular magic except Origa, doesn’t exist. “Two people, follow me!” (Alyssa) Alyssa, who jumped off the platform wagon, took two soldiers, who jumped up as if it was first come, first served, along and quickly disappeared from in front of the castle. It seems that she plans to observe the castle from another platform wagon. “As expected, she acts promptly.” (Nelgal) Imeraria was greatly perplexed at Nelgal who admires Alyssa. “Her excellence is nice, but... her not necessarily being our ally is not so advantageous...” (Imeraria) Nelgal looked up at the castle once again while answering with nothing more but a groan. Kuzemu is still hanging there just as before, but it seems that he has already no strength left to scream. As if hanging his head, his head is lowered in a crestfallen manner. “Let’s have a preparatory meeting until Alyssa-san returns. This place is Horant. What kind of plans do you have, Nelgal-sama?” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who confirmed that Sabnak stood up unsteadily on his feet, asks while staring at Nelgal. Nelgal gulped. It might be called a question regarding “the current situation” if only examined superficially, but in his ears it sounded like a demand to clarify their standpoint as “nation.” (What is she thinking about...?) It might be a keen viewpoint, but Nelgal felt a tension he couldn’t erase. Imeraria is asking how I plan to deal with Orsongrande which has intervened in Horant’s internal affairs Unable to conceal his hesitation, Nelgal, who brooded over it for a short while, clearly stated, “Please, let me continue the cooperation with your country. After my coronation, I will have the privilege to express my gratitude without fail. ... I don’t possess the authority to talk at equal rank with Your Majesty the Queen at the current point in time. All shall follow Your Majesty’s heart’s desires.” (Nelgal) “You heard him, didn’t you, Sabnak?” (Imeraria) “Yes, Your Majesty.” (Sabnak) Imeraria gave instructions to Sabnak, who bowed his head respectfully, in a flat voice. “Arrange for spear throwers and soldiers who are strong at long distance attacks. I don’t mind if you borrow Fokalore’s help either. That man called Kuzemu or such is a nuisance. Let’s get rid of him.” (Imeraria) Nelgal attempted to say something, but gulped it down at once. ☺☻☺ “We found that box on the other side of the castle’s gate where the soldiers enter. We didn’t realize it until we got inside the building.” Just when they were able to prepare the spear throwers, Alyssa’s group returned. Though we don’t know how once we step through the castle gate, which is still open after the soldiers within the castle ran away, won’t immortal soldiers jump out from that box? “Do you know the whereabouts of Hifumi-sama, Origa-san and rabbitwoman-san?” (Imeraria) “Not at all. They were in a place where they can’t be seen inside the building.” (Alyssa) “I see. Got it.” (Imeraria) Imeraria stands up quietly and places her right hand on Alyssa’s shoulder. “From now on it’s necessary to resolve this situation under mine and Alyssa’s orders. If we are able to do that, Hifumi-sama might become a bit more obedient as well.” (Imeraria) “That might be the case.” (Alyssa) Alyssa added “Well, then will we gain control of the castle by having everyone charge?” “Yes, we will show them something like that.” (Imeraria) Due to Alyssa not understanding well, Imeraria muttered “it will be alright” to her. “Without a doubt certain people are inside the castle. Fortunately there are people here who are knowledgeable about this castle, too. There’s absolutely no necessity for us to move according to Hifumi-sama’s plans either.” (Imeraria) The explanation of the details seems to have finished. Neither Nelgal nor Sabnak are interrupting her speech. “Alyssa-san, you will act as guide together with the two soldiers of Horant and Nelgal-sama and I will come along as observer. Sabnak-san and Vaiya-san will serve as my guards. We will infiltrate the castle with these six people.” (Imeraria) “Won’t we be discovered by Hifumi-san?” (Alyssa) Imeraria laughs with a “Fufu.” “Even if we are discovered by Hifumi-sama, he probably won’t come to interfere with us. To begin with, that gentleman shouldn’t make a move. If he did something like that, it would end with Hifumi-sama’s victory in the blink of an eye.” (Imeraria) “In the same way it’s hard to believe that Origa will come to meddle with us”, Imeraria guesses. After finishing the preparations of the ordeal, they are expected to watch how Imeraria and Alyssa deal with it. “I will explain the strategy.” (Imeraria) Imeraria got worked up and said “This time we will definitely cause Hifumi to be surprised.” At the time when the uproar in the castle began, Tannin came back to the capital city in secret. “Good grief, they rushed until this place in the twinkling of an eye, didn’t they? See, it was correct to run away.” (Tannin) Hiding his horse close to the entrance of the city, he approaches his own mansion, which is located close to the castle, while making sure to avoid public attention. Originally there are many soldiers patrolling the area with its many noble mansions, but influenced by the turmoil at the castle, they have apparently been mobilized to keep away the neighbourhood’s residents. “The servants ran away, too...? Though that’s fine since it’s convenient.” (Tannin) gathering the luggage by myself is troublesome “... Is there no one here?” (Tannin) “Uwaah!?” (Tannin) Being suddenly greeted, Tannin released a jumpy voice. “Ah, y-you are... Levi, aren’t you?” (Tannin) “Excuse me for surprising you.” (Levi) The one who spoke to him was the maid who was seduced by him inside the castle. She wore the same clothes as the time when she was in the castle. While he wonders from where she entered, she slowly walks up to him from inside the building.magic “I have awaited you. I feel happy that you came back safely.” (Levi) “Ah, yea. Thank you. That’s great, but why are you here?” (Tannin) “All the servants were ordered to evacuate from the castle... I’m also prohibited to enter the castle until tomorrow.” (Levi) Due to Levi lowering her look, Tannin is struck by her usual impression of frailty that she might be easily broken. However, he noticed that there was something else besides that. “You did well to come here.” (Tannin) “Yes, I was able to come here after being told about the circumstances.” (Levi) “Circumstances?” (Tannin) Levi talks with a smile. “Given that that there was talk about me being received by you, Tannin-sama, that matter is...” (Levi) “T-That is...” (Tannin) For Tannin it was no more than a feeling at the level of being caught by one of his lovers, if said diplomatically, but Levi understood it as him wishing her to be his wife. Rather, it’s Tannin’s bad habit to obtain women by causing a misunderstanding like that. She is merely yet another one who was deceived by him. “However, it’s cruel. I was called a “pitiful child who was tricked” by the female servant who was house-sitting.” (Levi) Levi’s smile doesn’t falter. No, her laughter becomes louder. “It’s different, isn’t it? There was even the talk of preparing a home for me. Thus, thinking that it’s a good opportunity to gather the luggage of this mansion to some extent, I came here.” (Levi) Tannin, who by no means did expect her to be able to come to his home, placed his hands on both her shoulders and brought his face close. “Listen, our relationship didn’t advance this far yet, did it? We will go at it much slower...” (Tannin) “Such a! Didn’t you tell me that you would come to pick me up once the battle ended?” (Levi) “The battle hasn’t ended yet. That’s why you were told to leave the castle, right?” (Tannin) “Then, why are you here, Tannin-sama?” (Levi) There was no way for Tannin to tell her that he ran away and thus he hesitated to speak. “Umm... look, it’s that. There’s that bad guy called Hifumi or such in the castle, right? He hates me who draws the attention of others. Therefore it was decided that I will wait for orders here for caution’s sake.” (Tannin) While even he feels that it’s a lame excuse, he talks as if it spills out from his mouth. In reality it’s Tannin who hates Hifumi. From Hifumi’s point of view, Tannin’s level of treatment is that Hifumi can’t even remember his face. “Really...?” (Levi) “Yea, it’s a really deplorable matter, but I can’t be negligent until this battle ends. At least, once he leaves the castle, it will become a bit better. I will likely be able to welcome you with open arms.” (Tannin) Tannin speaks to Levi, who showed a response of apparently believing his skilful persuasion, as if showering her with promises and presses a kiss on Levi’s lips. “You poor Levi. Can’t you endure for just a bit longer? He might target this place here even if it’s cowardly. I’d like you to hide yourself for a little while. It’s also for the sake of your beautiful face and wonderful body not getting injured.” (Tannin) “Tannin-sama... to go that far for me...” (Levi) Seeing her entranced expression, Tannin judged that the immediate danger passed. “I will give you some funds for the time being then.” (Tannin) He slips one gold coin he has on hand into Levi’s white, small hand and firmly grasps her hand with both his hands. “Let’s meet in the castle again once the surroundings settle down. It would be the greatest if I received a passionate kiss from you at that time.” (Tannin) Tannin, who hugged Levi’s shoulder and kissed her once more, guided her to the back-door, which he used himself before, and bid her farewell there. “See you soon.” (Tannin) Seeing off Levi who leaves with a light stride, Tannin entered the mansion and became shocked after seeing the spectacle at the entrance. “What’s this, about...?” (Tannin) The senior maid, who has been cut, had collapsed with an expression of anguish and was bleeding from her abdomen. “If it comes to a castle defence battle, it’s actually the theory to close the gates and pour boiling oil and stones from above.” Hifumi, Origa and Viine chased out the servants, who were inside Horant’s castle, and gave the instruction to Gaap to prepare for attacking the enemy by using all of the soldiers. Given that it was an “examination” to the bitter end for Hifumi, just as Imeraria expected, he has no intention to do a real castle defence battle. However, he prepared traps of the level that they will likely die if they are careless. Hifumi, who did the proclamation to Imeraria and the others, decided to care-freely eat a meal in the dining hall while being accompanied by Gaap. Currently Origa and Viine are displaying their talents in the kitchen while using the ingredients in the castle as Hifumi eagerly waits for his meal. “Boiling oil, you say...?” (Gaap) “The advantage of liquid is that it will enter any gap no matter what armour or clothes the attackers wear. If it directly hits the nerves, they will likely be unable to endure the pain. Since it won’t be an instant death even if they swallow it, for example, they will die after fainting in agony or going mad. Or they will survive while suffering after-effects.” (Hifumi) “But then again, even if they don’t die, this world offers the chance to heal it as long as they have money”, Hifumi drank from the cup with black tea while smiling. Even Gaap, who listens while having a pale face, understands the advantages of that. He himself didn’t seem to be capable of giving the order to actually implement that since it’s scary for him though. “In case the enemy entered the castle, you can enact surprise attacks from hidden rooms or... ah, that’s right, it’s something that was done in the castle of the demons: there’s also the method of dropping the ceiling.” (Hifumi) “The ceiling?” (Gaap) “I don’t understand the mechanism too well, but there was a similar trap at the time I was there. Luring me into a room, they dropped the stone ceiling of that room. If you skilfully block the escape routes, the enemy will be crushed flat in one go.” (Hifumi) He hits the table with his palm with a *clap* to imitate the ceiling. “Eh? That... was done, you say?” (Gaap) “I got caught in that trap. I never expected them to set up such a trick. That time was fun.” (Hifumi) When he happily talked about the demons’ king being powerful and there being some among the demons who come up with various things, Origa and Viine turned up while carrying the dishes. “Sorry for having kept you waiting.” (Origa) “Yea, thank you.” (Hifumi) Viine stared at Origa, who blushed after being thanked by Hifumi, with pleasant eyes. Dishes with some grilled meat, a soup with shellfish all over, a pile of salad and bread, which was heated in an oven, with cheese and butter in-between are lined up on the table and a nice aroma spreads. “Well then, let’s eat?” Origa and Viine sit down on both sides of Hifumi. Gaap sits in front of Hifumi. Gaap felt envious, but he was somewhat nervous due to the force emitted by the two women. “So, Hifumi-san, what will we do from now on?” “It’s decided.” (Hifumi) Stabbing the thick meat with a fork, he looked delightful due to the overflowing meat juice. “The preparations are finished. The rest is them being troubled one way or the other while we watch as unconcerned spectators.” (Hifumi) The spices influence the meat, he chewed, nicely and the deliciousness of the fat, which seems to start melting, spreads inside his mouth. “This meat is great. Let’s take some for our return home.” (Hifumi) “That will be troublesome”, those words were on the tip of Gaap’s tongue, but he swallowed them down together with the bread.

“I wonder, what shall I do...” (Zanga) Muttering that in a small voice, Zanga has no real care about what happens to her as, putting the method aside, she had planned to die anyway, but Puuse who was declared to be exiled was completely haggard. The guards had disappeared from the room a little while after Laboras left, though they were likely waiting outside. While having her back gently caressed, Puuse got exhausted from crying and fell asleep. Watching her sleeping face with its swollen face, Zanga was disgusted at her own powerlessness while thinking “Really, in these matters I’m only a leader in name ~nee.” (Zanga) She looks at the door where Laboras exited. Before long the day will dawn. In a distant place she can hear screams and the sounds of things clashing. “They are at it, eh...? Will that human be alright?” (Zanga) Which reminds me, I didn’t hear his name “N... nh?” (Puuse) “You woke up? Sorry, but can you handle the treatment of your wounds by yourself?” (Zanga) Puuse, who was painful to look at with the traces of her tears, silently nodded and cast healing magic targeting her swollen face. Even after the swelling slowly subsided and her originally slender chin and white skin returned, Puuse’s facial expression didn’t clear up. “Puuse. It was my bad judgement for having you go meet him ~nee. I considered that he might have been injured in the wastelands since he’s a human, but...” (Zanga) “For that reason there was no other choice but to send Puuse who is good at healing magic”, Zanga apologized. “That’s already in the past... Besides, if you look at it differently, I survived while the others got killed by that human.” (Puuse) Zanga averted her look as it was painful for her to see Puuse’s expression of forcing a smile. “It looks like that human man is currently getting attacked. Now then, I wonder what will happen to this village and us as result of that...” (Zanga) Even while saying that, Zanga believes that no matter of him having the strength to come here while surviving the wastelands, he will likely end up getting ganged up with offensive magic while being attacked by a large number of people. “That...” (Puuse) Puuse lifted her head shyly. “Even if he won, I don’t think the situation will change for the better, however... rather than that, is Shiku alright?” (Puuse) “I can’t really say ~nee... I don’t think that Laboras is together with that child though. He will most likely be surprised once he gets to know about your situation, Puuse.” (Zanga) “Even so”, Zanga revises her thinking. “With me just inviting a single human, it has turned into such an unfathomable situation.” (Zanga) If Puuse really gets banished, I will also leave the forest together with her Even Puuse who is bad at offensive magic will probably be able to escape if I sacrifice myself when we get attacked by beastmen. “If I’m not allowed to do at least this much...” (Zanga) “Zanga-sama?” (Puuse) “It’s nothing. Anyway, for now we can’t do anything but wait.” (Zanga) As the fire of the sunken hearth was about to die out before she realized, Zanga tossed in a twig. ☺☻☺ “What happened here!?” (Laboras) Laboras, accompanied by several of his followers, searched for Shiku to ask him about Hifumi’s deeds for the sake of Puuse’s denunciation, but since he wasn’t at home, he reluctantly headed out to kill Hifumi. What he witnessed there were the figures of his comrades who had been minutely dissected by Hifumi. “Uwaa...” “Ugu-gueee...” Even the followers he brought along are vomiting unable to bear it or are holding their mouths shut due to the dense stench of blood and the terrible scene.magic Being dumbfounded for a short while, Laboras raised a loud voice at Hifumi who is continuing his work while ignoring Laboras. “You bastard are the human who was dragged in by Zanga! What are you doing to our brethren, to our friends!?” (Laboras) “Ah?” (Hifumi) Turning around, Hifumi’s hands are once again dyed red. “Human...” “What a cruel thing to go this far”, as one of the followers mutters that, all of them shiver. “Did you guys also came aiming for my life just like these fellows?” (Hifumi) “If that’s the case, you are very welcome”, Hifumi took out a bottle filled with water from his darkness storage and started to care-freely wash his arm. “What the hell did you do to our brethren...!?” (Laboras) Hifumi doesn’t even turn his look at Laboras who says that in a low voice as if suppressing his anger. “I assembled the parts in a good mood. I tried to examine those guys’ bodies. Look!” (Hifumi) What Hifumi threw was the small white lump of the pinky from before. “What’s this?” (Laboras) Ahead of where Hifumi is pointing at is the figure of an elf which had its hands and feet cruelly chopped into small pieces. Laboras’s sight swam for an instant, but his look immediately returned to Hifumi. “There was a similar white lump in feet and fingers before. You can’t call it bones. Besides, the number of bones in the hands and feet was the same as the other guys.” (Hifumi) “I’m investigating the cause for you guys gradually changing once you got old. You not interested in it? How you will die? To what manner of dying you will be exposed?” (Hifumi) Hifumi points at the scattered corpses. “It might be your fate to die like that if you throw yourself into combat. It’s like that for me, I guess. But, how about if it isn’t related to combat? If you were lucky enough to survive?” (Hifumi) “We can return to the forest! We will become a part of the forest as people of the forest! It’s different from you humans!” (Laboras) “Yea, true.” (Hifumi) Hifumi discarded Laboras’s frantic objection indifferently. “Rather than that, try looking at this.” (Hifumi) Hifumi began to walk quickly and stopped next to a pool of blood which was located at the root of a tree. Of course it was created by Hifumi diligently carrying over corpses. “Do you see that only the part close to the trunk of the tree has become slightly white?” (Hifumi) “White... what’s this?” (Laboras) Once Hifumi stabs a tree branch he picked up into the blood pool and pulls it back up in front of the elf who is tilting his head to the side, the branch is entwined by white strings, similar to a spider web. “At first I wondered whether it originally was a component that exists within the blood of you elves, but it doesn’t seem to be the case. The blood pool over there hasn’t changed, right?” (Hifumi) As Hifumi says, an identical pool of blood had been created in vicinity while leaving some open space in-between. It’s a puddle giving off a dark red colour where one can’t see a change similar to turning white in particular. As Hifumi prepared a controlled experiment in high spirits while recalling the scientific experiments at school so far, he nodded in satisfaction as he got the main gist of the situation. “It’s nothing but a hypothesis.” (Hifumi) The elves’ looks gathered on Hifumi who began to talk while giving such preface. “One of the reasons is that after you entered the area of the elves the kinds of trees growing here and the atmosphere is unusual. But the cause is this tree which is composing the forest in the vicinity of the village, I guess.” (Hifumi) Hifumi slaps the trunk of a large tree standing next to the pool of blood. “I don’t know whether it’s from the trunk or the leaves, but if you accumulate components of this tree in your body, it will likely change your bodies’ composition to something similar to a tree by becoming solid within your body. I guess the flesh and blood which composed your body originally gets corroded by it.” (Hifumi) Once he finished talking in a way of obviously persuading himself, Hifumi surveyed his surroundings by turning around. “So, what do you think? Do you guys choose to die by turning into a tree? Will you end your lives and become mere lumps of meat just like these fellows by clashing with magic and drawing your weapons here? Or, will you run away from the curse of this tree before it’s too late?” (Hifumi) No one is able to return an answer to Hifumi’s words. Looking at each others’ faces, they are simply talking with each other noisily. “You bastard are...” (Laboras) Only Laboras trembles in fury due to his brethren being flustered by the words of the human who was to be their subjugation target, due to the cruel manner of his brethren’ deaths and due to Hifumi toying with their corpses. “Do you intend to cover up your crimes by lining up incomprehensible theories!?” (Laboras) “Are you unable to... no, unwilling to understand your mistake?” (Hifumi) While giggling, Hifumi tossed away the branch he was holding. “Don’t avert your eyes from death. It’s something everyone, without fail, will experience. There’s no need to be scared of it.” (Hifumi) Drawing his katana, Hifumi takes one large breath. “Hey, choose. Will you persist in your obstinacy to fight here? Will you calmly review your own circumstances?” (Hifumi) Several elves quietly took a distance due to those words. That matter is irritating Laboras as well. “Don’t you weaklings have no pride as people of the forest!?” (Laboras) “Don’t talk such rubbish.” (Hifumi) Hifumi bluntly tells the enraged Laboras while baring his displeasure and composure. “Pride or such is a dream bringing people close to death. Thanks to your guys’ stupid ‘ Hifumi showed an expression of ecstasy while gazing at the charm of the hamon. “Dying is something that completes one’s character. Did they follow their way of life? Or, was it filled with unhappiness? Was it an unnatural death in the middle of their aspirations or did they achieve something?” (Hifumi) He calmly shifts his attention to Laboras who glares at him and puts strength into his muscled body which is unlike that of normal elves. “Your desires, your objectives and your future comes to an end once you die. What’s left is a completed life. Being killed is something that completes that life.” (Hifumi) “Therefore”, he prepares the katana by aiming at Laboras’ eyes. “Let me bestow that end upon you, if you so desire.” (Hifumi) “This human is...” Half of the followers are gradually withdrawing while the other half is waiting for Laboras’s judgment. Laboras who had the looks of his comrades gathered on him quietly took the knife at his waist into his hands. Hifumi laughs. ☺☻☺ When Shiku observed the state of Zanga’s house from the shades of a tree, the two elves in front of the entrance stood there listlessly. Shiku who moved his lips with a *monyumonyu* while lowering his eyebrows frantically performs a chant within his mouth. “S-Sleep...” (Shiku) His magic is at a level where Shiku might be able to barely use hypnotism magic. On top of requiring a chanting time to the degree of making an elf yawn, it hasn’t much of an effect on a completely awake opponent, however it will somehow work on opponents who are only standing around absent-mindedly. “I-I did it.” (Shiku) Confirming the two guards sliding down to the ground after leaning their backs against the wall, he quietly enters the building. There he found the figures of the leader Zanga and Puuse sitting next to each other. “Shiku? You were safe?” (Puuse) “Puuse-neechan...” (Shiku) Shiku who lost strength in his knees sits down weakly. “Excuse me for telling Laboras about the human after he asked about it...” (Shiku) Puuse snuggles up to Shiku who sheds large drops of tears in a rush. “It’s alright. I healed the injuries by myself, okay?” (Puuse) “B-But, I was told that Laboras will banish you, Puuse-neechan...” (Shiku) Noticing Shiku who has a pale face quivering, Puuse comforted him by hugging him reassuringly. However, her words aren’t coming out smoothly. It’s because she’s truly scared of being banished. “Shiku, do you know what that human is currently doing?” (Zanga) “Yes...” (Shiku) Shiku corrected his posture upon Zanga’s question. “I don’t quite understand, but he spoke about comprehending the reason why elves get absorbed and arbour or something like that. However, many adults were killed...” (Shiku) Zanga raised her voice which was unusual for her. Due to the two staring at her in surprise, Zanga dropped her half-risen hips and gazed at the small fire in the sunken hearth. That gaze seems to be looking in the far distance. “The things that human is pondering about is something I didn’t understand well either. Don’t tell me, it’s because of our conversation... So, did you hear that reason?” (Zanga) “Umm, I don’t know whether it’s really true or not, but bad stuff is entering one’s body from the forest’s trees or something like that...” (Shiku) The explanation of Shiku who honestly didn’t understand half of it either is ambiguous. Puuse who was listening next to him was only cocking her head in puzzlement, but Zanga was able to grasp it. “I see. It’s because I lived for a long time.” (Zanga) Zanga who laughs with a *hi hi* slowly speaks to Puuse and Shiku. “You know, as child I was afraid of the forest. I practically never left the house.” (Zanga) “The reason I heard is that you complied with the location which was decided in order to listen to the stories of many villagers at all times, but...” (Puuse) “That is, well, an excuse in concern of my dignity. It’s story which was used to cover it up. In truth I had only become afraid of the forest.” (Zanga) “In spite of being an elf”, she laughs at herself. “Being afraid of the forest, you say. What’s this about?” (Shiku) Zanga muttered a small 「Will they let me speak, I wonder?」 due to Shiku’s question. “You guys also saw it in the forest, right? The manner of an elf’s death, that is.” (Zanga) Once being told, Puuse recalled the elder elf who begged Hifumi to kill him and gulped. For Shiku it was faint due to his half-awake state, but he has vague memories of it. “Me too. When I was younger than Shiku is now, I saw it in the forest. The figure of an elder elf heading towards death. ... And in addition to that it was my grandmother’s death.” (Zanga) “Fuu~”, she exhaled. “My grandmother, you know, told me that it was painful and agonizing and that she wanted me to give her relief, but... the me who was nothing more than a small child couldn’t do anything. In the end I ran away from grandmother while she continued to call my name.” (Zanga) “And then it reached the point of even feeling disgust towards being an elf, unable to get rid of my dread of the forest”, she says. “However, if what the human has said is really true, I will be saved a little bit as well. If it’s really because of the forest’s nature and not because I’m an elf...” (Zanga) Breathing out once again, Zanga turned her look which was fixed on the fire towards Puuse and Shiku. “I wish for that human to survive. I want to talk with him once more.” (Zanga) Those were, in short, the same words as if desiring the death of her brethren.

The king of Horant, Suprangel, chose to calm down the uproar outside and within the castle. He declared peace and reconciliation because of the negotiations with the feudal lord Hifumi Tohno of the Fokalore territory within Orsongrande. The details of those negotiations were: “Monetary reparations concerning the damages done by Horant.” “Initiation of direct magic tools trade with Fokalore as well as Orsongrande by Horant’s royal family without passing through Vichy.” “The permission of Fokalore’s soldiers to be stationed within the domain of Horant.” Especially the third point, not only was it unheard-of in history for a foreign army to be stationed within another country, but the opposing voices of the domestic nobles against Suprangel were strong. However, the king disregarded those. “It will only be beneficial to Orsongrande”, Horant’s nobles ground their teeth out of vexation, but there was a problem of the other royal family members not having enough ability to oppose the king after Veldore’s death. Of course that didn’t mean that Suprangel happily swallowed those terms. Even now, while listening to the talks of the nobles, who insisted in their stinging dissenting views in the name of remonstrating him with 「What insolence」, he recalled the conversation with Hifumi. “You are asking me to place your troops in my country... ?” (Suprangel) With the audience hall being in a desolate state because of the terrible scene of corpses being scattered all over, the two carried out their negotiations in another room that had been prepared. In normal cases, there is a lot of importance attached to formality such as seating order, but since it was a discussion between the king and a single noble it became a conversation of both sitting on an equal level this time. “That’s only natural. Though we will teach you how to fight, it will be pointless if it’s only or soldiers.” (Hifumi) “Though I think that the compensation and the direct trade can’t be avoided...” (Suprangel) “At the beginning.” (Hifumi) Not making himself quite clear, Hifumi muttered towards the king while entrusting his back to the chair and looking up to the ceiling. “I’m curious, won’t it create a situation of different small warlords rivalling with each other within the noble’s consul, if the political centre of Horant is destroyed and a large amount of the populace becomes rootless? I wondered whether I should do such experiment, but...” (Hifumi) He says an outrageous thing with a serious look. “However it would be too wasteful to lose the technology of magic tools due to that. There is the problem with the sense of pain and ego vanishing, but the body enhancement was good. If that sort of technology spreads even more, the killing will become a lot more enjoyable. It should also cause an effect of thinking about war more deeply in various ways.” (Hifumi) “We will arrive at that place in the end.” (Suprangel) “Of course”, Hifumi laughs. “I was transferred here from another world against my will by the idiots of Orsongrande. I planned to go on a rampage a little bit as I had to hold back so long, but there was a lot less resistance than I imagined.” (Hifumi) “Another world... ?” (Suprangel) “Imeraria called it summoning magic. It seems to be an ancient technique, however I don’t know about it quite well. I was forcibly summoned from another country by that spell. If you feel like it, it’s alright to exchange blows with the royal family of Orsongrande due to that.” (Hifumi) “That is... I will pass on that. Even if I said something now, it wouldn’t amount to much more than a loser’s whining. However, aren’t you denying the possibility of Horant going to war against Orsongrande?” (Suprangel) “No, it’s a standpoint of recommending the opposite. If it reaches the point that people use their heads, the battles will become as long and violent as possible. I didn’t tell you add the provision of being non-aggressive towards Orsongrade for a reason. That’s how it is.” (Hifumi) There was no need for Suprangel to say anything else anymore. He doesn’t know how soon that man would devour the country once again if he doesn’t finish the conference quickly and settle down the internal affairs somehow. While making a civil official take notes, they worked out the details of the drawn up official document. Both of them signed two versions each and kept one for themselves. With this they concluded the unprecedented peace between a single noble’s territory and a whole country. ☺☻☺ “Somehow we were welcomed with an amazing vigour.” (Alyssa) “It’s likely the king’s instigation. His soldiers probably decreased considerably. They might not want to risk even skirmishes, to say nothing of a war, until they have reorganised their army to some extent.” (Hifumi) Incidentally, as he left the castle, he was joined by Alyssa who caught up.magic Although the negotiations advanced at a considerable speed within their limitations, they mostly haven’t encountered any enemies, let alone even an outstanding opposition. On the contrary, once they got closer to the capital, a messenger welcomed them and told them the end result. Alyssa’s group, which had intended to open hostilities upon coming into contact with the enemy, got completely discouraged. “Origa already started the aforementioned strategy. As it had been decided that we will train the soldiers of this country for the time being, I will have you, together with the lot you brought along, stay here and drill them. The period is half a year.” (Hifumi) “For half a year!?” (Alyssa) “I plan to start the next step in around that time.” (Hifumi) Hifumi says while scribbling on some kind of document. Alyssa tilted her head to the side. “Next?” (Alyssa) “Right, next. Because I will make sure to have Horant, Orsongrande and Vichy approach a pleasant standstill, soldiers of various places will be trained during that time. After that I will somehow give them a trigger.” (Hifumi) Alyssa quietly sighed due to Hifumi laughing innocently. “I leave the methods of drilling to you. Alyssa will occasionally return to the territory. While at it, we will also replace the lot stationed here. It’s also necessary to have similar training in Vichy and the other territories.” (Hifumi) “It will become busy, eh?” (Alyssa) “Yea, but it will also become a lot more fun. ... Alyssa.” (Hifumi) “What?” (Alyssa) “There’s no particular necessity to continue doing the unreasonable. It’s also unnecessary to feel gratitude. I was able to enjoy Vichy plentifully.” (Hifumi) “Do I seem to be that worn out?” After Alyssa inclines her head to the side, she laughs with her whole face. “Gratitude, eh? I also followed Hifumi-san intending to repay the favour at the beginning, but now that’s not it. Seeing various cities in various countries, looking at an unknown world and talking with companions I’m getting along with is fun.” (Alyssa) Alyssa’s eyes were suddenly filled with tears. “That’s why I’m together with Hifumi-san. At the time of going through a bitter experience in Vichy, I thought about wanting to die, but since it’s this much fun right now, I consider it to be fine as it is.” (Alyssa) “Please treat me well”, when Alyssa bowed, Hifumi tapped her shoulder while smiling as well. “I see. It’s fine to do what you like as long as you enjoy it. It’s your life after all.” (Hifumi) “Uh huh. It’s a blessing if you can do what you like.” (Alyssa) “Yes, that’s right... Eep.” (Hifumi) Once Hifumi raised his look, he saw the soldiers of Fokalore chewing their handkerchiefs behind Alyssa while spilling tears of gratitude. Their resounding, sobbing voices were similar to the wails reputed to be heard from the entrance to hell. “Director! I will accompany you for the rest of my life as well!” (Soldier) “Please tell us anything! We will do our utmost to fulfil your wishes!” (Soldier) “Yea, best regards from now on too!” (Alyssa) Watching the soldiers answer in one voice to call of Alyssa, Hifumi secretly left the place wondering since when those guys had become this disgusting. He hastened his return for the sake of creating the next place of conflict. ☺☻☺ The first task of Vaiya, who became the vice-captain of the new Royal Knight Order, was to proceed towards Fokalore. It had been decided he would carry out negotiations before involving Phyrinion. It’s about a request to instruct the knight order as well as the national armed forces. Being the initiator and an acquaintance of Hifumi, Sabnak has assisted in the guarding of the former soldiers of Horant on their travel to Fokalore before returning to the royal castle. He also had the national task to make sure they arrive with his own eyes. Along the way he, alongside the accompanying soldier of the national army, participated in the training of Fokalore’s soldiers. Excluding Vaiya, who participated several times, the soldiers of the national army only inclined their heads to the side in doubt whether the unfamiliar training regime had any effect. However, in addition to the merit of hunting during journeys, the Fokalore soldiers killed a bandit group, they encountered by chance, by themselves while the national army was confused. Due to them displaying conspicuous fighting strength, the national army’s soldiers improved by imitating their training. And before long they arrived at Fokalore. “On top of the attendants having increased considerably, the person in charge is absent...” (Caim) Caim expressionlessly muttered a few words as if being fed up. Splitting the soldiers, who came from Horant to immigrate, into groups and assigning accommodations, he quickly broke up the soldiers and had staff members guide them. The staff and territorial soldiers, who were instructed without delay, began to move without any particular disorder. The soldier, who was chosen to explain the state of affairs to Miyukare, dropped his shoulders, feeling to have drawn the short end of the stick as it was apparent that Miyukare would be displeased about Alyssa not returning, and walked away. Vaiya, who was rolled up in that skilled performance, is guided to Phyrinion by Brokkra. Being guided and entering the feudal lord’s mansion, Vaiya showed interest in its structure. The neatly cleaned-up first floor is completely a public space. There is a clerk on standby at the information desk to give easy-to-understand guidance. A row of counters is lining up in a clear order for all kinds of reports. The residents are quietly talking in the meeting space. It’s rather busy with people like apparently newly-wed who are exchanging information with fellow couples and people, who are reminiscing with others that lost their relatives as well. “This is amazing...” (Vaiya) Brokkra explained in detail as Vaiya was taken aback. “All of this is following the teachings of Lord-sama. Each of the staff members, with the exception of us civil official slaves, has their own individual role and it had been established that they use the pre-set format as well. They are managing everything like the occupation, family structure and address of the inhabitants.” (Brokkra) “Address?” (Vaiya) Vaiya posed a question hearing an unknown word. “Beginning with this city, there is a manager and a name for each block of the cities and villages Lord-sama controls. And since all buildings have a number added to them, it has reached the point that any building is defined by its block’s name and number. The delivery service, that begun as private organisation, is using that as well.” (Brokkra) “What a...” (Vaiya) Vaiya can’t hide his shock due to them being able to organise things and people in a way even the capital can’t. At the time of realising that there were a lot of things he should study besides military affairs, he regretted to not have brought along even more of the other knights as well. The office, used by Phyrinion, is on the second floor of the mansion. Usually there are people coming and going without interruption, but now that a envoy of the royal castle has come, the flow of people had been stopped temporarily. Once Brokkra knocked on the door, Krinola came over and opened it. As they enter, Phyrinion stands up to welcome them. “Welcome. Although we’ve heard about the envoy from the royal castle, I hope you can accept me, Phyrinion el Amazelotto, as representative.” (Phyrinion) Since the moment he looked at the slightly tired expression of the smiling Phyrinion, Vaiya couldn’t avert his eyes from Phyrinion. Her soft, green and lush wavy hair and her brightly glittering orange pupils. Noticing his own leering at her smiling lips, Vaiya turned away his look in a fluster. “Is anything wrong?” (Phyrinion) “N-No! Please excuse me!” (Vaiya) Vaiya, who unintentionally ends up using a loud voice, sits down urged by they reception while blushing. Brokkra tells them that his next official duty is waiting for him and leaves. “I’m the vice-captain of the newly established Royal Knight Order, Vaiya Zuellen. ( Given that his face heated up once he looked at her face, he greeted her while looking slightly downwards, but as he was wearing the uniform of the knight order which attracts attention, his face flushed all the more. “Royal Knight Order?” (Phyrinion) Phyrinion involuntarily knitted her brows due to the unfamiliar expression. “Though it is disgraceful, it’s an incomplete knight order that still has a bit work left to do as organisation as it was just founded the other day. The captain is Sabnak-dono, who hails from the Third Knight Order just like you. It’s likely that he is just about now returning to the capital almost as if replacing me.” (Vaiya) “He is... By the way, you know about me belonging to the Third Knight Order?” (Phyrinion) “I was told various things by Sabnak-dono before leaving Münster. Since you are probably experiencing hardships as his replacement, he wants to help you if he gets a chance to do so.” (Vaiya) Vaiya pretended to not notice her instantaneous angry expression due to Sabnak’s verbal message. Rather than that, he is embarrassed to have become more talkative than usual without hurrying up the talks at all. “Looks like various things have happened in the royal castle.” (Phyrinion) “Yes, both, the First and Second, Knight Orders have been dissolved. Earl Tohno has played a great part in that.” (Vaiya) Vaiya explained the situation as far as he knew himself to Phyrinion. Although there were various things he wanted to be taught from now on, he planned to tell Phyrinion all of the news without being concerned about them being highly classified information. The war with Horant, the matter of Hifumi marching into Horant, the prince’s death and the princess’ decision. Phyrinion silently listened to all of the topics. “... Thank you very much. The world is changing at an outrageous speed. Even the incomprehensible common sense of the original lord of this territory, I was able to realise it once again.” (Phyrinion) Choosing this timing, Krinola exchanged the completely cooled-down black tea. Stealing a fleeting glance at Vaiya’s face during the time of placing the cups, she almost unintentionally burst into laughter. She is wondering why her own master doesn’t realise the state of the male in front of her. “And? You surely haven’t expressly accompanied the travel of the defeated soldiers from Horant for the sake of reporting the state of things this time, right?” (Phyrinion) “Yes, of course not. Though I also ascertained the immigrants from Horant with my own eyes, the real issue for me to come here is to convey a request from the royal castle.” (Vaiya) “From the royal castle? Are the contents intended for my ears?” (Phyrinion) Phyrinion made sure whether it was fine to not wait for Hifumi to return, but even grasping that, Vaiya does nothing more but continuing the prior discussion. “Of course I’m well aware that the final decision will rest with the feudal lord. However, judging from Earl Tohno’s character, he makes prompt decisions if possible. Before that I planned to request a prior examination whether or not it will be possible.” (Vaiya) Certainly there is also the possibility of Hifumi deciding during his stay at the royal castle, but at any rate it might be different if there is or isn’t a preparatory phase. “If that’s what this is about, I will listen to your story.” (Phyrinion) “Fokalore’s feudal army’s state of being undefeated, we came to the conclusion that the secret of their strength lies in the content of their training regimen. Therefore, because there won’t be a problem in borrowing a few soldiers from the feudal army, we are planning to request them to coach the national army.” (Vaiya) “With such kind of talk, it’s even fine to talk to the civil official slaves about it. There’s probably no one as well-informed about this territory as them.” (Phyrinion) “It’s to the degree of them knowing more than the feudal lord”, Vaiya gaze was glued to Phyrinion’s smile as she said that while laughing. As expected, even Phyrinion would notice it if she was stared at with a bright right face. Though, in her case it was a feeling of wondering whether she had said anything offending in this situation. At last noticing that he was watching her in fascination due to being called, Vaiya averted his gaze while stroking his cheeks in panic. “E-Excuse me! Just, seeing... your beaut... y...” (Vaiya) Vaiya doesn’t make eye contact wit Phyrinion realising the meaning of those words after finishing them. Even Phyrinion ended up hanging her head in shame with a bright red face thanks to the unforeseen words. “Umm... thank you very much...” (Phyrinion) After squeezing out words of thanks a few times, both of them ended up silently looking downwards with red faces. Krinola, who left the room quietly, got enthusiastic about reporting this to Phyrinion’s family’s home, the Amazelotto household.

At the end of defending against the attacks from Horant without suffering any particular damage, the enemies disappeared from Münster’s defensive encampment. The soldiers are taking turns between resting and maintaining as well as checking the tools used for defending. Imeraria has withdrawn to the rear together with Biron and they are taking a break in their respective tents. Inside one of those, Sabnak, who is the one in charge on-site, busily gave orders. “Inform me about the situation.” (Alyssa) Once Sabnak, who was suddenly addressed, looked over his shoulders, he wondered for just an instant whether there was no one there, but when he lowered his line of sight, he discovered Alyssa looking up at him. “Ah, Alyssa-... san.” (Sabnak) Receiving a mysterious pressure from the soldiers of Fokalore, who are behind her, once he uses her name without an honorific, he adds a “-san” to her name in panic. “Reinforcements from Fokalore, huh...? That’s welcome.” (Sabnak) Surprised by their fast arrival that exceeded the expectations in his mind, he thought that he’d like them to not ransack the battlefield as much as possible, but he produced a smile even while his face was twitching. “So, Hifumi-san and the others are...” (Sabnak) “They will be here very soon. Origa is with him as well.” (Alyssa) Alyssa immediately answers the question which had a thread of hope put into it. , Sabnak wanted to cry, but since he owns a title he has to keep it together at this place. “We were attacked in this defensive encampment only once by Horant, but we were able to repel them. I can’t predict how the other side will move, however the surroundings of the national border have been completely occupied by Horant.” (Sabnak) Sabnak, who told her the information he received from the observing soldiers, mentioned that he wanted to ascertain the state of affairs now anyway. “I see... is it fine for us to borrow a corner in the encampment?” (Alyssa) “I don’t mind, of course... what do you plan to do once Hifumi-san arrives?” (Sabnak) Alyssa shook her head saying “it’s different” towards Sabnak’s question. “Since my subordinates suffered losses by Horant in this time’s case, I will go rescue them as the one responsible for them. Hifumi-san will just watch.” (Alyssa) “... Eh? That Hifumi-san will just watch without participating in the battle?” (Sabnak) Due to Sabnak muttering “no way”, Alyssa got angry and puffed up her cheeks. “It’s the truth! This is my revenge, so I will be the one to execute it!” (Alyssa) Sabnak smiled foolishly, but his face became dark at the mention of the word “revenge.” “Revenge... it is?” (Sabnak) Sabnak hasn’t forgotten the time when he met Hifumi for the first time in Arosel. At that time Hifumi helped Origa and Kasha, who were still slaves, to accomplish their revenge going even as far as lending them his own weapons. “So that means, you... no, the Fokalore feudal army will invade Horant?” (Sabnak) “Of course.” (Alyssa) “P-Please wait a moment! Currently I’m the one giving the orders in this place, but this encampment and military operation is under the command of Her Majesty Imeraria! Even though it’s already a difficult situation even at the best of times, it will be troublesome if you invade without permission.” (Sabnak) “However, Hifumi-san has said it’s fine.” (Alyssa) “That’s before thinking it over properly!” (Sabnak) Placing his hand on her shoulder to plead to Alyssa while bending his back, Sabnak shows a face that looks like he is sobbing. “Her Majesty the Queen and an Earl, both of them are people in high positions. You can’t decide something on your own accord without getting the permission from such people in high positions regarding such important matter, right?” (Sabnak) “... I guess so?” (Alyssa) “That’s how it is. ... It would be great if you didn’t display high-handed absurdity like that couple, Alyssa-san. For starters, let’s discuss it with Her Majesty and Earl Biron. Come on, let’s just do that.” (Sabnak) Seeing the state of Alyssa who seems to be agreeing with him at least partially, Sabnak sighed in relief. If Alyssa went out for an unreasonable offensive, it would be also possible for this encampment to be broken through when it received a large-scaled counter-attack from Horant. I’d like them to calm down somewhat and cooperate with us by just pushing back them back to the national border if possible “Yo. You became quite the big boy after climbing the ranks.” (Hifumi) “Sabnak-san’s evaluation of us seems to be such.” (Origa) With their horses lined up, Origa, who glares at Sabnak, and a smiling Hifumi were there. ☺☻☺ “Please stop, Midas-san.” (Vaiya) “... Vaiya, huh? What’s this about?” (Midas) The one who stood before Midas, who was about to enter the capital together with Nelgal’s group, weren’t the underlings of the rebelling nobles or thieves, but the Vice-Captain of the Royal Knight Order, Vaiya, Midas realized after squinting. “It has been decided that I’m the one in charge during the absence of Her Majesty and Captain Sabnak.” (Vaiya) “That’s not what I want to hear. What I want to know is why it’s necessary for you to stand in our way.” (Midas) The two of them are acquaintances despite having different affiliations. Vaiya is superior as he has a rank of nobility, but Midas is his senpai*. Being in different units, namely the Royal Knight Order and the ordinary knight order, they possess the same ranks as Vice-Captains. “It’s because of the carriage over there.” (Vaiya) The one Vaiya pointed at is the one with Nelgal on board. As the coachman and the soldiers, who are securing the vicinity of the carriage, belong to Horant, they are grasping the scabbards of their swords with tensed expressions due to the sudden situation. “Is His Highness, the next king of Horant, boarding it?” (Vaiya) “What will you do, if that is the case? What you are doing is equivalent to a grave, diplomatic affront.” (Midas) “It’s an order by Her Majesty. I was told to welcome His Highness, Nelgal, and have him wait in the capital until the situation has settled down.” (Vaiya) The decree, which Vaiya took out after saying “the circumstances have changed”, was definitely signed by Imeraria. Midas hesitated while fixedly staring at the decree without returning any words either. There’s the possibility of Vaiya having become a puppet of Horant or the rebelling nobles, but basically he is known for his high evaluation as being a trustable person. The one who broke the silence was a soldier from Horant. “Are you betraying us at this point after regarding us like allies!?” “N-No...” (Midas) Facing the flustered Midas, the enraged soldier of Horant at last took a sword in his hand. Tension travels across Midas’ group and Vaiya’s group, which is lining up right in front of them. If they draw their swords here, there won’t be any choice but to cut them down without questions asked. “Please wait.” (Nelgal) The one who stopped the soldier from Horant was Nelgal who disembarked from the carriage. At the moment he, who looks somewhat thin due to his anxiety, came close, Midas dismounted. “Midas-san, is the decree, he possesses, the real thing?” (Nelgal) “... There’s probably no mistake in that.” (Sabnak) Hearing Midas’ reply, a grieving voice is raised by the soldiers of Horant, but after having calmed them down, Nelgal faced Vaiya. “For such a decree to appear means that something happened in our country, right?” (Nelgal) “That’s right, Your Highness, Nelgal.” (Vaiya) “Please stop with the “Your Highness.” Although I have been designated as heir, I’m still a child in the middle of studying. I’m a youngster who merely has a distant, distant blood relation with His Majesty, Suprangel.” (Nelgal) Vaiya, who has sweat gathering on the forehead of his stiff face due to the shy Nelgal, carefully folds the decree. “We have observed an act of aggression towards Orsongrande by your country, Horant.” (Vaiya) The soldiers from Horant became speechless due to that and same applied to Midas’ group. “Aggression... could you inform me of the situation please?” (Nelgal) Vaiya nods towards Nelgal who continued his question while having a pale face. “The enemies from your country, who plotted an invasion into Orsongrande, have been held back by the troops of Earl Biron, who is governing the area of Münster, a city close to the national border and Fokalore’s territorial troops of Tohno Earldom, which have been stationed in Horant. They prevented the invasion by Horant.” (Vaiya) “However”, once Vaiya straightens himself by spreading his feet lightly, the chain of the kusarigama, which hung at his waist, makes a sound. “The soldiers of Fokalore’s feudal army, which protected your country, were killed by the troops of your country. The area of the national border has been at present occupied by soldiers from Horant.” (Vaiya) One of the soldiers from Horant gulps. Even if the authenticity of those details are a different matter, it’s currently clear that soldiers affiliated to Orsongrande were killed by soldiers from Horant, is what they have been told. At this point in time it’s similar as to ((both countries)) having returned to being fellow enemy nations. “H-However, those aren’t Nelgal-sama’s instructions! You know that, right!?” A single soldier raised his voice, but Nelgal stopped him by raising his hand. “Even if it might not be my order, I can’t escape from taking responsibility for it seeing as I’m the country’s representative... is what you are saying, right?” (Nelgal) Due to Nelgal’s remark, Vaiya, who paused while closing his eyes, breathes in. “The people, who were in the instruction unit from Fokalore and who are assumed to be dead, use the same weapon as me. Although it’s been only for a short while, they are people with whom I trained while sweating together.” (Vaiya) Grasping the chain tightly, Vaiya repeatedly took deep breaths and released his hand. “Although I’m aware that I’m venting my anger, I want to beat down the power of your Horant, if I voice out my real feelings.” (Vaiya) Vaiya took out yet another parchment and showed it to Nelgal after opening it. “... However, on top of not having yet finished the coronation, as Nelgal-sama himself said before, it’s not like he is the son of the deceased King Suprangel.” What was unfolded was a postscript to the previous decree. “There is nothing I can do about having you stay in the capital, but I have received an order to welcome you politely and to make sure that you can rest there without any inconveniences. It’s the same for your guards as well. Please, I’d like you to accept the request from our country’s queen.” (Vaiya) “It’s not something I can say carelessly, but I will keep it in mind.” (Nelgal) Nelgal replied with a sad expression to the bowing Vaiya. “I shall entrust myself to your country. Please take my escorting soldiers into your consideration as much as possible, too.” (Nelgal) “I shall promise you that.” (Vaiya) “Great. Furthermore, if possible, I’d like to have the privilege of sending a letter to Her Majesty, Imeraria.” (Nelgal) Vaiya, who lifted his head, was puzzled. “Letter, you say? I don’t mind, but... may I confirm what kind of content it’s about?” (Vaiya) “No problem. It’s a petition for clemency.” (Nelgal) “H-Her Majesty, Imeraria, will never consider something like executing you, Nelgal-dono.” (Midas) Nelgal unintentionally spilled a smile due to the flustering Midas. “It’s not for me. I’m merely feeling that I want her to spare the lives of the people, who are working in the castle, and the soldiers of my country if at all possible. What I’m afraid of is that those, who will apparently rampage in my birthplace, will be Her Majesty’s, Imeraria’s, confidants. Do not provoke the wrath of a superior? It’s just that.” (Nelgal) The soldiers of Horant, who aren’t quite aware of Hifumi, looked at each other, but Midas, Vaiya and their men had a cold sweat different from the one before. ☺☻☺ “Well then, today’s agenda is about the treatment of the girls, but...” “Before that, please tell us who those girls are. I grasp that they are elves and beastmen. But what I want to know is why they have come to Fokalore.” In a room within the feudal lord’s mansion. Doelgar threw that question at Caim who tried to literally start a meeting in the room that has been used by the civil officials for meetings. Once Caim surveys the civil officials that gathered, there are Miyukare and Brokra, who are nodding in agreement, besides Paryu, who has become the mediator of Puuse’s group who arrived in Fokalore. “Well then, let’s have Paryu explain.” (Caim) After nominating her indifferently, Caim sat down while being expressionless and quickly finished his preparations to take notes. Paryu, who is the youngest, conveyed more or less what she had been told by Puuse’s group to everyone even while being tense due being pierced by the gazes of the other four. “Umm, the elven woman is Puuse-san. The rabbit beastman is Viine-san, the dog beastman is Gengu-san and the tiger beastboy is Malfas-kun.” (Paryu) The group, which had been sheltered in a city facing the wastelands, has been put on a platform wagon and has been transported until Fokalore yesterday around this time. Currently they are staying in an inn which is close-by. The arrangement of an inn and such were Caim’s instructions, but as they were able to confirm that they have no hostility and that there are women among them too, Paryu, who was available to help, had temporarily taken over the duty of looking after them. It was due to the judgement of Caim, who knew that they came to meet Hifumi, that there weren’t entrusted to other staff members. “Located on the other side of the wastelands there’s a city where beastmen, humans and elves live together in a county called Swordland. It seems they came from there.” (Paryu) “I see.” (Caim) The one who obediently nodded while agreeing is only Caim. “A country on the other side of the wastelands, huh? I knew of the rumours, but it really existed, eh?” “It’s the first time I’ve seen an elf or such. That’s also a surprise.” “I can’t imagine something like beastmen and elves living in the same city.” Caim listened to the chats between Miyukare and the others, who exchanged their opinions, for a while, but once he judged that there won’t be anything similar to a conclusion, he turned his look towards Paryu. “Paryu, I heard that their objective is to meet with Lord-sama, but did you learn the full details?” (Caim) “Ah, yes.” (Paryu) Paryu, who was once again exposed to their looks after they suddenly stopped their chatting, earnestly reads out the memo in her hand. “It seems that the rabbit beastman Viine-san is a slave bought by Lord-sama. I was told that she was immediately set free after studying for a while, but... she is similar to us.” (Paryu) “Though we aren’t completely free at all, are we?” Due to Doelgar leaking “We are about to die due to work”, Miyukare glared at him and said 「It’s still better than going on campaigns」. The one who participated in the mobilisation of the all-male military forces was apparently quite stressed despite having been together with Alyssa. Once the two become silent after being glared at by Caim, Paryu continues. “That Viine-san is, umm....” (Paryu) “Is it something difficult to mention?” (Brokra) Noticing that Paryu was blushing, Brokra took the memo. “Oh... The rabbit beastman called Viine-san apparently came here to be together with Lord-sama. The other people are her escort. Only the tiger beastboy apparently has the wish to become Lord-sama’s pupil.” (Brokra) “Oh my, oh my, how lovely. She’s honestly in love.” “Miyukare, you are too sly, right? Paryu, you are already years old, aren’t you? Don’t get bashful over this much.” Being somewhat embarrassed, Paryu held her cheeks with both hands. Ignoring all of that chatting, Caim flatly said, “Well then, please tell me your real opinion.” (Caim) Everyone tilts their heads to the side. “Don’t you understand that a very huge problem cropped up? She came here in order to get close to Lord-sama. In other words, it’s about a rival in love for the madam having appeared.” (Caim) “So, what will we do?” Caim said while looking at the faces of everyone present one after the other, but none of them met his gaze.

A standoff. That word was ill-fitted and lacking for the current situation of both smiling. Hifumi recognized Origa’s strength. He didn’t harbor the slightest negative feelings towards her having wounded his left wrist just now. On the contrary, he was delighted. He had blocked all the wind blades, but the bleeding from his first wound had increased. “...Are you not going to use a magic potion?” (Origa) “I have only two left. Besides, I can’t leisurely take care of it with you as my opponent.” (Hifumi) “Ah...i-it’s an honor.” (Origa) Origa believed that to be a slightly exaggerated assessment, but for Hifumi that was a relatively serious evaluation. She restrained her opponent by manipulating invisible blades while nimbly moving with her small body. On top of that, she could even handle close combat by striking and slashing an enemy with her iron-ribbed fan. I haven’t taught her group combat and throwing techniques almost at all, but even without her being able to use those, it doesn’t limit her. At the very least it’s much more troublesome to take on Origa alone than fighting several hundreds of demon soldiers “You have forged yourself well. This seems...to be something to look forward to.” (Hifumi) “Please savor it to your heart’s content.” (Origa) Before Origa finished speaking, Hifumi swung his left hand towards behind him. The black hand, which swayed feebly, erased a wind spell that had flown at him after taking a big detour. Origa, who closed the distance faster than walking but slower than running from the front at the same time, slashed her fan diagonally from the shoulder at Hifumi’s knee without showing any discomposure at the surprise attack having failed. Avoiding the slash by nimbly pulling back his leg, Hifumi then attempted to step down on the fan with that foot. However, Origa forced a kick, averting Hifumi’s foot. Having trampled down on the ground as a result, Hifumi slashed with the katana, which had dangled in his right hand, as if scooping up. Origa let the blade slide off the top part of her opened fan, causing sparks to scatter. Pushing each other’s weapons, both took some distance. Hifumi exhaled deeply through his faintly opened mouth. Origa heaved her shoulders a bit, and took two deep breaths, calming her heart. This time it was Hifumi who attacked. With his katana lowered, he plunged straight at Origa as she had done moment’s ago. But, there was a remarkable difference in their force. Due to the pressure approaching her with an overwhelming strength that excelled even a gale, Origa was reflexively on the verge of escaping backwards. However, at this point she wouldn’t be allowed to turn around and run away. If she were to hurt his fondness for her by acting pathetic here...what if she were to be denied to sleep together with him for that very reason? Wiping that frightening image of a possible future from her mind, Origa stepped forward. Moreover, she pushed her own back with wind magic. Both clashed silently. The katana and the fan exchanged blows once again. Chipped-off fragments of the fan were sent flying. But for some reason all of them flew towards Hifumi. One fragment cut Hifumi’s cheek open. “Wind magic, huh? That’s quite skilful.” (Hifumi) “It’s a result of your kind teaching, Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) “Hearing that makes me happy.” (Hifumi) Contrary to Hifumi who had been suppressing her with his katana in one hand, Origa held him at bay with her fan in both hands while performing feints with magic.magic Origa, who had the advantage in regards to the number of moves at hand, was about to distract Hifumi with magic once more, but Hifumi moved first. “Kyaa?” (Origa) Noticing that she had been tripped up after lowering her eyes as she had apparently lost her strength in her knees all of a sudden, Origa curled up her body swiftly, and ground her teeth while getting out of the katana’s range. Focusing on distracting her opponent, she had neglected to watch out what was happening at her feet. At this rate I can’t bring it to a close. She splashed water, which she had created with magic, at Hifumi, who mercilessly stepped in and thrust his katana at her, and took some distance in the meantime. During the long training sessions with Hifumi, Origa had naturally been able to learn of his combat distance. If she confronted him while keeping a distance of more than four steps, she could use magic before any approaching attack. Properly fixing her stance, she opened the fan. Breathing out such a hot breath that it seemed as though her innards were on fire, she fixedly stared at Hifumi. Her husband in front of her had lowered the katana in his right hand and was shedding blood from his left, and yet he looked at his wife with a calm expression. No hesitation or fatigue was visible on his face. He was simply staring directly at his opponent. No, Origa knew after being taught by Hifumi. Hifumi sensed and saw the air flow and the happenings around him, and not just his opponent. , Origa began to manipulate the wind. She poured mana into the magic-wand substitute, her knife, which was affixed to her arm, and transformed it into a phenomenon. Hifumi seemed to have sensitively noticed that the air around him had changed. He lowered his waist slightly, getting ready to move at any time. Hifumi was closely observing Origa. It’s because he couldn’t read the changes from her movements. Origa wanted to enjoy the state of their looks entwining with each other much longer, but she had to hurry. “I had the privilege to talk about various things with you.” (Origa) “That’s true. Well, if you say that it’s only natural, you’re correct, but above all, you wanted me. And I wanted you to become stronger.” (Hifumi) “Our training, our work, and our nightlife. And I was even allowed to hear various things about the time when we were separated. While spending such an irreplaceable time, you made only one mistake, Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) And then Origa breathed in very deeply, opened her mouth, turned it forward, and caused her throat to tremble strongly. In an instant, Hifumi noticed the true nature of the attack. He threw away his katana and blocked his ears. But, he couldn’t put any strength into his left hand, resulting in his left ear not being plugged completely. The voice, which had turned into a shock wave rather than a sound, was amplified by wind magic as it assailed Hifumi’s ear. Although it had a certain extent of directionality, the surrounding knights and monsters fainted, and even Origa, the source, shed blood from both ears as her eardrums had been torn. However, that wasn’t the end of the attack. “...Kuh!” Origa started to fiercely run towards Hifumi who was firmly standing despite shedding blood from his left ear and looking somewhat lightheaded. Origa could see him picking up his katana and raising it overhead. However, she didn’t stop. She readied her fan, and stepped in without dropping her speed, no, while putting even more power into it. Within the battlefield ruled by silence, the fan in her right hand took flight. The aim was his left hand. Hifumi wasn’t in a perfect state. The possibility of her being cut was high, but he should be slower than usual. While warning herself to not hesitate, she mowed her fan sideways, targeting Hifumi’s left wrist with a speed being as fast as she could muster. Suddenly Viine appeared at the edge of Origa’s field of vision. As visible from her long ear’s bleeding, she had apparently been hit by the shockwave. And yet, with a somewhat unsteady gait, she earnestly came running while shedding tears. “Stop!”, seemed to be what she was shouting, but Origa couldn’t hear it. Very likely Hifumi hadn’t heard it either. Viine jumped like that, trying to cling to Hifumi. At the same time, Origa’s fan severed Hifumi’s left wrist. And Hifumi’s katana pierced through Origa’s collar into her back. “Uooh.” Just like that Hifumi tumbled over in the shape of two women clinging to him at full force. It took mere seconds until a thick magic barrier sprung forth around them. ☺☻☺ “...Why didn’t you kill me?” Origa asked while sticking to Hifumi with her ear pressed against his chest. However, no answer came back. On the contrary, she couldn’t hear with her ears either. Once Origa raised her body while smiling bitterly, Hifumi pulled out his katana at the same time. A feeling of passion rather than the pain made the core of her body tremble. Origa sat down in order to suppress her agitation while blushing, and just like her, Hifumi raised his body. Viine had fainted while clinging to his waist. Origa didn’t hear him, but Hifumi murmured something, and no sooner than taking out two magic potions, he opened one and thrust it into Viine’s mouth. Once he pulled it out when it had decreased by around half, Viine choked and had the liquid run out of her nose and mouth while rolling around, just to clash against the magic barrier. Meanwhile Hifumi drained down the remaining liquid in the magic potion. It apparently healed the wounds at his face and arm, but it didn’t regrow his left hand. However, Hifumi didn’t show an inkling of minding that. And then he offered the remaining potion to Origa. She couldn’t talk well because her ears weren’t working, but Origa was bit by bit talking about something along the lines of having no qualification to be together with Hifumi as the one who lost while twisting her face because of the pain of her body and heart. Hifumi, who inserted his left arm beneath Origa’s armpit, pulled her up with all his strength, brought his face close in a pose as if hugging her, unplugged the magic potion with one hand, and poured the contents into his mouth. “Eh...?” Due to the sudden kiss, Origa’s body froze for an instant, but she immediately accepted him. As her shoulder and back wounds got healed and once she became able to hear again, Origa tried to separate her mouth, seemingly feeling embarrassed by the wet sounds audible between the two. But, she gave up on it and clung to Hifumi just like that. “M-Master, are you alright?” (Viine) When Viine, who had apparently revived, clung to Hifumi, the kiss finally came to an end. And then Hifumi lowered his fist on Viine’s head. “Stupid rabbit, you interrupted our precious fight...oh, it started, huh?” (Hifumi) “Kyaa! What’s this!?” (Viine) While sighing, Hifumi answered to Viine, who was embracing him once again, “It’s the sealing. That damn Imeraria had fully aimed for that moment.” Contrary to his words, Hifumi was laughing. Slowly the petrification started at the feet of the three. They were standing with Origa and Viine snuggling up to Hifumi from both his sides. At this point, their legs up to their knees had already transformed into white, shining stone. “A-Are we going to be okay...?” (Viine) Hifumi laughed off Viine who was frightened and anxious. Origa’s face was tinged with dissatisfaction. “Viine, did you get cold feet at this point in time? Origa, do you plan to turn into a statue with such an expression?” (Hifumi) As he was talking about this and that with the two women, Imeraria, accompanied by Sabnak, and Alyssa showed up. “Is it fine now?” “Yes, the magic has been already invoked. No one can stop it. ...Even if I were to be killed.” (Imeraria) Hifumi extended his right hand towards Imeraria who was smiling as if to provoke him while standing in front of him. He gently placed his hand on the head of Imeraria, whose body became stiff. “Well, considering it’s you, you did well.” (Hifumi) “You didn’t have any capable personnel. It was a good choice to get involved with the demons. If it had been just you and your retainers, it should have been impossible to gain enough time.” (Hifumi) “Why...?” (Imeraria) Imeraria was surprised by the sudden evaluation. Alyssa bent herself forward from the side. “Hifumi-san! I want to talk with you once more, after all!” (Alyssa) “There’s not much time left anymore. What is it?” (Hifumi) “I will properly protect the territory! So that you can return to that mansion again if you come back, Hifumi-san!” (Alyssa) “Okay, I leave it to you.” (Hifumi) “Why!?” Imeraria raised a scream-like voice from behind Alyssa who was searching for her next words. “Why, now that it has come to this, such, such...” (Imeraria) “I felt like the seeds I sowed so that this world would come to my liking had budded. The one in the center of it all was you. That’s it. You worked well for me. Gathering information, doing the spade work, assembling the necessary pawns, and changing your actions while forming an estimate how you can win. All of it are things no one in this world did or could do.” (Hifumi) “If I were to assess you sternly, it would still be a failing grade for a long time to come, though,” Hifumi added. He had already petrified up to his waist. Hifumi knitted his eyebrows due to the uncomfortable feeling of being unable to move his body freely. “You had the preparedness to get your revenge against me. That made you grow. And I taught Alyssa and you what will be necessary for the humans to survive in this world, where humans, elves, dwarves, and demons are all jumbled together, from now on.” (Hifumi) Imeraria looked down and swung her fists while Hifumi was talking. “I will likely come back sooner or later. I don’t know whether it will be several tens or hundreds of years in the future. I don’t know what kind of world it will be at that time. But if there’s a wish, I only pray that it won’t be filled with fools who don’t know how to fight. ...Otherwise, there won’t be any fun in killin’ them.” (Hifumi) Hifumi resigned himself and received it without dodging. Something like a powerless attack of her didn’t cause any significant pain, though. “That’s it. It’s fine like that. Bear in mind that your hated opponent will revive one day. And tell the child to not shirk on its preparations for the coming battles...mmh?” (Hifumi) Imeraria trembled once more due to Hifumi’s words. However, her face as she looked up at him was smiling. “Hifumi-sama, your biggest flaw is that you can’t understand the feelings of women.” (Imeraria) Saying so, she put her arms around his neck and brought her face close. “There’s no way that a woman would go this far on hatred alone, is there?” (Imeraria) Before Hifumi could object, she forcibly kissed him. “Nmu...hafuu...” “Me too!” (Alyssa) The instant Imeraria separated from him, Alyssa jumped at him as well, and roughly pressed her lips on his. Rather than kissing, it was an innocent act similar to a pet licking her owner. “Ah, geez! Cut it out!” “Ugyaaa!” Hifumi, who got rid of Alyssa with a headbutt, looked at Imeraria once more. “Anyway, feel free to tell the future generations about us what you like. Alyssa, you can also do as you like since you’re the feudal lord now.” (Hifumi) “Yes, I shall leave plenty of slander about you behind, Hifumi-sama.” (Imeraria) “I will develop the territory properly!” (Alyssa) The two expressed their discontent at Hifumi irresponsibly replying with “Yeah, yeah,” but Hifumi didn’t listen to them anymore. It’s because Origa, who was close to him, asked him to put his hand around her waist, and Viine demanded the same as well. As he made sure to hug the two with both arms, Origa brought her face close. “Hifumi-sama...no, dear. Why didn’t you kill me? If you had stabbed a little bit to the left at that time, I would have died. ...I can’t believe that you’d make such a blunder, dear.” (Origa) Hifumi shook his head at Origa, who looked up to him with a serious look, “I don’t kill unborn children. I felt the presence of a baby in your belly. That’s all.” “Eh? What’s with that? Is that true? Congratulations, madam!” (Viine) In exchange for Origa, who blushed and froze while looking up to Hifumi, Viine got all excited by herself. “Origa, do you intend to become stone with such an expression? Laugh. That’s what suits my wife the most.” (Hifumi) The petrification slowly advanced from their neck to their chin. The two, who stared at him while smiling, and the one, who was embracing them while brightly smiling, fully turned into stone statues. According to the books which Imeraria had deciphered, their time had already stopped. Without thinking anything, their consciousness would likely return next when someone removed the seal. “U...Uuuuaaaa...” Imeraria, who had crumbled down at Hifumi’s feet as if clinging to them, hid her face and burst into tears. Without being able to stop that, Sabnak simply waited. No, he also shed tears. He didn’t know whether it was out of sadness or not, but at the very least this spelled a parting with people with whom he shared some time together. And, Alyssa also cried loudly while standing stock still. Her crying voice didn’t cease echoing across the plaza until the sun went down on that day. The scuffle in front of the royal castle, which was called pandemonium and an unprecedented calamity, took the lives of many demons, and even the human side had to pay a heavy toll. In the end, the soldiers and knights, who had survived, all fainted, spelling the end of the battle. However, this was a fact which was recorded only in the documents sleeping in the forbidden treasury of the royal castle. The news, which were spread to the populace, were different. “The Hero of the Slender Sword magnificently held back the demons in a struggle to the death, and got sealed together with his wife and attendant due to a curse.” A new pedestal was built in the center of the plaza, and the statue of Hifumi and the others was enshrined there. Only 『Portrait of the Hero』 was inscribed on a lithograph embedded in the pedestal without mentioning any details about him. It was decided to entrust the rest to the people spinning their gossip. However, Imeraria had one sentence carved into a part that was separate from the lithograph. 『The slaughterer summoned by Imeraria sleeps here. You must not wake the calamity.』

“Oh.” (Hifumi) While walking through the forest following Puuse’s guidance, Hifumi discovered the same thing he saw not long ago. It was the figure of an elf entrusting their back to a large tree. It’s a different person from the one he saw first. The elf still hasn’t completely changed into a wooden figure. Once Hifumi got close without listening to Puuse’s shy restraint, the left eye of the sitting elder elf opened. “You are conscious?” (Hifumi) “... Human, eh? I was able to see something unusual just before my death...” The elder elf, who talks in a fragile voice, was a male. Wearing a plain attire as if he has wrapped himself in a cloth, he is sitting in a cross-legged posture. Most of the visible part have transformed. Around one third of the mouth on the right and the right eye in the face had turned into moss-covered bark. The voice, which leaks from a gap in the slightly opened mouth, seems to be really strained. “Is it painful? Are you seeing properly?” (Hifumi) “What a barrage of questions.” The elder elf, who spilled a laughter as if leaking air with a “fufu”, shifted his attention to Puuse, who is standing behind Hifumi. “Puuse, huh...? The one who brought along a human is you?” “E-Excuse me.” (Puuse) “There’s nothing to apologize. I was able to have an interesting encounter in my last moments. Human, do you want to ask something?” Returning his sight onto Hifumi, the elf muttered “I don’t have much time left.” “My body will gradually stop to move. The tree-turned parts don’t feel anything, be it getting wet or cracking.” “Even my hunger vanished before I realized it”, the elder elf explains. “A gentle death, huh?” (Hifumi) “Fufufu... Human, it’s different.” The elder elf turns his eyeball in a circle. His gaze turned towards everything in visible range. “I can watch like this, but it’s only in the range of my eyeball’s movement. I wonder how far it will become.” “Fuufuu”, his breathing goes roughly. “My breathing- is slowly- getting painful. It’s not- a gentle sensation. What is certain- is me gradually heading towards the approaching death. Undoubtedly, if it’s like this and even if I stop moving completely, I will probably survive- for a while. Without seeing, without hearing and unable to move.” “That probably doesn’t mean that it’s not scary”, he says. “Even my tears aren’t flowing anymore. It seems I’m going mad due to the despair of being unable to handle my own death.” “Such a...” (Puuse) Puuse has become speechless with a pale face due to his fear towards death, she heard of for the first time. “The ones, who were unaware of it, isn’t only you. It’s an unapproachable law, created by someone, for anyone facing death, but that’s wrong.” Without anyone knowing the truth, they vanish into the forest believing to be visited by a gentle death. “The result of that is this. Therefore, I’m grateful- for being able to talk to someone. And, human.” “What is it?” (Hifumi) “Please- kill me. Any more and I will cease being a living creature. I don’t want to taste dread...” “I see. It’s fine, I guess.” (Hifumi) Hifumi readily accepted his request and drew the katana from his waist. “P-Please wait! Something like killing him...” (Puuse) “You are a cruel fellow.” (Hifumi) “Eh?” (Puuse) “I was told something unexpected”, Puuse raised a voice of surprise. “It’s as the human says, Puuse. For the current me death is a salvation.” “I want to examine the corpse.” (Hifumi) The elder elf smiled within the range of being unable to change his expression due to the words of Hifumi, who prepared his katana. “If I can die, it’s fine for you to do as you like afterwards. Human, your name is?” “I see, Hifumi, huh...? You have my gratitude.” Holding the katana above his head, the katana, which was brought down head-on, divided him into two separate halves up to the head with its marvellous sharpness. Moreover, the head drops sideways due to a horizontal slash. The head, which was split into two parts, tumbled down from the neck stopping its breathing. “What’s cruel is the state inside his body.” (Hifumi) Using the point of the katana, Hifumi pointed at the cut end of the head, which fell to ground, up. “Uuh...” (Puuse) While somehow enduring the stuff swelling up from within her throat due to the gruesome view, Puuse timidly turns her sight. Hifumi examined it carefully from point-blank range while squatting. “Even the head’s contents have mostly transformed. So, what’s this?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who had seen the interior of humans many times, knitted his brows due to the appearance as if an entire part of the components was created to be replaced by wood. Moreover, there’s another part Hifumi doesn’t understand. “Do you know what this white thing is?” (Hifumi) “I don’t know. It’s the first time that I saw this, but...” (Puuse) What Hifumi saw was a sticky white something, which clung thickly to a part which was on the verge of changing to wood within the head. Once he tries to lightly scoop it up with his finger, there are sticky strings drooping. “I don’t know this. It might be something characteristic to elves.” (Hifumi) Wiping his finger with a paper, Hifumi stood up and muttered in a small voice, “It would be best, if I could see the contents of a still safe fellow though.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who saw Puuse’s look of not having heard it, is intently glaring at Puuse’s head while staying silent. “Did something happen...?” (Puuse) Feeling something frightening from his gaze, Puuse asks nervously. “No, it’s nothing. Rather than that, let’s hurry up.” (Hifumi) ☺☻☺ According to Puuse’s explanation, the barrier for imprisoning the demon race deep within the forest is apparently created with the elves’ mana in a special location, where a magic square was drawn, just past the village. “In the end it won’t work unless we pass through the village?” (Hifumi) “Please, I’d like you to have peaceful talks in the village.” (Puuse) “That depends on you guys’ behaviour. I don’t have a playful mind to attempt being on good terms with hostile fellows.” (Hifumi) On the contrary, questions are rapidly released by Hifumi. Even though Hifumi knew about it once he entered the elven forest, perception magic for the sake of protection has been set up close to the barrier. He realizes that it’s unclear whether it has been done by elves, beastmen or humans. As he only met accidentally with Shiku in the midst of his patrol, it was Puuse’s group, who came to welcome him upon Zanga’s order. While having such conversation, the village came in sight. Two elves, holding bows, are standing in front of the simple wooden gate. “Ah, we arrived...” (Puuse) Puuse believed that it would turn into a quarrel, if she guided him there just like that, but they ended up arriving without her coming up with any idea in the end. “Wait! Stop!” The two elves, who stood watch at the gate, call out to them. “Human, huh? We were told you would be coming, but why Puuse... and on her back Shiku? What happened?” “Let me see... Since it will be too long to explain, I want to lead him to Zanga-sama’s place first.” (Puuse) “Is that so? Please take the human along since I will carry Shiku to his house.” Lifting up Shiku, who was still unconscious, one of the elves leaves. “W-Well then, it’s this way.” (Puuse) While being relieved that she was at least able to avoid a critical situation without resolving the unacceptable circumstances in any way on purpose, Puuse continues to guide him. All of the houses as far as the eyes can see are one-story houses, which were build with wooden planks and some ivy and twigs. Without having anything door-like, slightly dirty clothes are hanging at the entrances similar to a sign curtain hung at shop entrances. “Zanga-sama’s house is over there.” (Puuse) The building, pointed at by Puuse, is two times bigger than the other ones. A simple door, which was made with a board and not a cloth, was installed at the entrance. Hifumi, who stopped and watched it for a short while as he had some feeling of discomfort, noticed that building to not have any windows. The other buildings have openings, although those are merely hollowed out, for the sake of letting skylight in, but those can’t be seen in that build at all. Without realizing that peculiarity, Puuse stood in front of the door and called out towards the building’s interior. “Zanga-sama, it’s Puuse. I have brought the human.” (Puuse) “Ah, thank you. Come and enter.” (Zanga) A hoarse voice of an old woman resounded from inside. “Since we got permission, please go ahead.” (Puuse) Being urged on by Puuse, who opened the entrance by detaching the whole board, Hifumi steps inside without hesitation. The building seems to have only one room. A bed, which was a cloth covering a pile of dried grass, and a low wooden table are visible. With the entire building having no windows, only a small flame, faintly swaying in a place, similar to a sunken hearth, in the middle of the one room, is dimly illuminating the inside. “So you came, human-san. Look, it’s fine for you to sit down over there.” (Zanga) Sitting in the centre of the room, the old woman points at the opposite side of her across the sunken hearth. Skilfully breaking a thin branch with only her right hand, she fed it to the fire. A cloth, similar to the bedding, is covering a pile of dried grass at the designated spot. Hifumi, who sat down without reservation, looked straight at the old woman. Equal to the elves, who were reduced to arbour and whom he saw in the forest, she has well-regulated features. Her face, carved by deep wrinkles, can be even regarded as similar to annual tree rings giving her the impression of having lived for many years. “Puuse, you can go now. Since I will talk with our guest, return to your other work.” (Zanga) “Yes. Then, excuse me.” (Puuse) Once Puuse leave, the old woman sighs and throws a small branch, she held in her right hand, into the fire again. Suddenly approaching the fire by getting on her right knee, the aged face of Zanga shines more vividly than the swaying flame. “Although you seem to be quite old, your body still moves?” (Hifumi) “... By that way of speaking, it looks like you know what will happen to an elf at their final moments, eh?” (Zanga) With her talking about the details, Hifumi knows, in order to confirm, he nodded indicating that Zanga was correct. “The elves, you know, live in this forest since long ago. They died in this forest... no, were absorbed into large trees... Seen from a human’s standpoint, what do you think about this?” (Zanga) “It’s abnormal.” (Hifumi) “Fufu... Hihihi.” (Zanga) Zanga was happy and laughed due to his direct and denying words. “Abnormal, huh? I guess that’s true. Something like there being no other way but to only wait for oneself becoming unable to move is strange.” (Zanga) “Did you especially invite me to ask me that?” (Hifumi) “No, not at all. I only tried asking you because I was worried about this a bit.” (Zanga) “That”, Zanga pointed at the katana, Hifumi laid aside. “What made the elf pass on some time ago was that sword, right? I want to be killed in the same way, too. I can’t make such request to another elf.” (Zanga) Elves absolutely won’t do anything like injuring their brethren. They seem to have established the concept that all of them should die in the forest, with the exception being death by sickness or accident. “By the looks your transformation hasn’t yet started, though... no, your foot and the left hand, huh?” (Hifumi) “Keen insight, eh...” (Zanga) “As you surmised, my left foot and left hand have already stiffened and I have lost the ability to move them”, Zanga says. “I had a weak body since back then though. While obediently secluding myself within my house, I ended up dragging on my long life before I realized so myself. However, I wondered whether I should disappear into death by leaving to the forest, if this progressed a bit more... even though it’s shameful, I got scared.” (Zanga) Zanga laughed with a feeling of self-mockery, but that laughter settled down before long. “Therefore, human guest, I want to die before that happens. Death isn’t scary. Waiting for death while unable to do anything, that’s scary.” (Zanga) “Well, it’s fine, I guess. However, is it fine, even if the villagers die as result of that?” (Hifumi) “... What do you mean by that?” (Zanga) “You don’t know?” Hifumi glared at Zanga.magic “I don’t particularly mind killing you. I don’t care either way. But, the other elves, who would become aware of it, will probably try to avenge you. I don’t have a spirit of self-sacrifice to be done in easily due to that, is what I’m saying.” (Hifumi) “... I wonder if you can’t wait for one night. I will explain to the villagers.” (Zanga) After hesitating for a short while, Zanga said that and promised Hifumi to make sure that no harm comes his way. Even if there was someone causing harm to Hifumi and if that someone had the tables turned on them, it would be up to Hifumi to do as he likes, she says. “I will prepare a bed. Apart from that, as exchange for listening to my request, isn’t there something I can do for you, I wonder?” (Zanga) “Why are only you among the elves scared to enter the forest?” (Hifumi) Zanga quickly averted her look due to Hifumi’s question. “Well, there’s no point even if I hear it. It will be fine, if you stay silent until your death. There is nothing I want to request from you. I heard everything I wanted to hear from that elven woman.” (Hifumi) “Is that so...? Thank you. If you head right after leaving this place, there will be a small house. Since Puuse’s home is next to it, it would be good, if you greeted her. I will arrange for a meal as well.” (Zanga) “No, it’s unnecessary because I have food.” (Hifumi) “I see. If that’s the case, see you tomorrow. Please come to this place tomorrow.” (Zanga) “Since I have to resolve myself for death”, Zanga regained her smile once again. ☺☻☺ Inn the appointed hut, Hifumi, who rested on dry grass, woke up after sensing a presence stepping inside. The time is still before dawn. “Who is it?” (Hifumi) What came leaping into the sight of Hifumi, who pulled the katana towards himself swiftly and took a stance of nukiuchi, was that young elf Shiku. “H-Human!” (Shiku) Due to him awkwardly calling out while being afraid, Hifumi doesn’t release his stance. “It’s a smart move to attack someone while they are asleep, but you are fare too unskilled at erasing your presence.” (Hifumi) “I-It’s different! Puuse-neechan is in great trouble!” (Shiku) “Puuse? Ah, that elven woman, huh? ... I don’t care.” (Hifumi) Hanging the katana at his waist, Hifumi sat down on the grass bed. “Such a thing! I beg you, please save Puuse-neechan!” (Shiku) “Putting that aside, wouldn’t it be better to hide?” (Hifumi) “Eh? ... Au!?” (Shiku) The pellet, which came flying from behind Shiku, grazed Shiku’s shoulder without hitting Hifumi. Wind blades, mixed with stones of various sizes, come flying one after the other. The cloth, hanging at the entrance of the hut, has been torn to pieces. Him having fallen down at the moment of receiving an injury bears results. With the exception of the shallow cut on his shoulder, Shiku has sustained no injury worth mentioning. However, the building, which has suffered damage in succession, is very unlikely to last any longer. The walls are riddled with holes and the pillars are shaking grandly as well. “U-Uwah!” (Shiku) Watching the roof collapsing at last, Shiku clung to Hifumi. Seeing the hut collapsing completely and getting enveloped in a cloud of dust, the elves, who cast the spells, raised laughters. “Hee, the likes of humans. You will pay for the crime of having killed our brethren with your life.” Laughing foolishly, the elves can hear someone’s voice with their ears. “Crime, eh...? I don’t have any intention to go along with your revenge game.” The cloud of dust vanished in an instant and above the collapsed hut a large, dark disk was rotating. And, the one who stood on top of it was Hifumi. Shiku is clinging to his waist. “Though I didn’t have any intention to do this either.” (Hifumi) Hifumi thrust his hand into the round dark magic, which absorbed the roof and the dust, and took out the kusarigama. “Let’s reply with a big service, if you want to kill me.” (Hifumi) While whirling around the counterweight attached at the end of the chain, he tightly grasps the sickle with his right hand. “Use you magic steadily. It’s going to be an enjoyable contest of strength between fantasy and martial arts.” (Hifumi) Hifumi slowly took one step forwards.

Even while having his hatred towards Hifumi flaring up once again, the tiger beastman Malfas, who was persuaded by Gengu, returned to the beginning of the wastelands after being led by a soldier of Fokalore. “Thank you very much ~ssu. On top of accompanying us until here, even souvenirs...” (Gengu) A bundle with daily necessities and foodstuff given to him as souvenirs from Orsongrande is tied on the back of Gengu who bowed his head to the soldier of Fokalore. Even the back of the gloomily silent Malfas next to him had a large baggage affixed to it. “Don’t mind it. By nature we don’t know what Lord-sama is thinking. It’s a little apology because he acts like a bad person though he is a good-natured fellow.” “Please take care of Viine-san and Puuse-san.” (Gengu) “Yeah, Viine-san has probably arrived in Fokalore by now. Since she will be warmly welcomed if it’s our guys, I don’t think there’s anything to worry about. If it’s Puuse-san, won’t she be popular anywhere, seeing that elves are strong at magic and that she is such a beauty to boot?” “Then I’m relieved”, Gengu laughs alongside the soldier of Fokalore and pulls Malfas’ clothes. “Ah, well then we will head out now ~ssu.” (Gengu) “Well then, stay healthy. Come visit once again if you ever feel like it.” “We will definitely come back one day ~ssu.” (Gengu) Gengu lowered his head to the soldier of Fokalore who bid him farewell while waving his hand strongly and began to walk.magic Malfas walks at a slightly quicker pace in front of Gengu. After walking for around two hours, the environment completely changes into that of forests and wastelands with no traces of a human city visible. Even though he sees the forests and wasteland which should be dear to him, after leaving the human city, Gengu can’t settle down his mind in all honesty. “I guess I got completely used to the human city as well. Do we have to go to a place with as many ponds as possible ~ssu? Even if we do meet unexpectedly with the demons again... mmh?” (Gengu) Gengu moves his ears with a twitch. What they picked up is a great number of footsteps. “Malfas! A great number of footsteps is approaching! We have to hide!” (Gengu) While saying that, Gengu grabbed Malfas hand and hid in the shade of a nearby rock. He also lowers the baggage from his back for the sake of being able to escape without any burden when push comes to shove. “Aren’t those beastmen moving in a group?” (Malfas) “They are too slow-footed for that to be the case. There’s also the clanking sounds of armours. In all probability, it’s the demons.” (Gengu) “We won’t fight? If it’s beastmen...” (Malfas) Malfas breaks off and keeps silent after receiving Gengu’s stare. “Malfas... if you speak any further, I will leave you behind here.” (Gengu) The footsteps are still far away and they seem to be exhausted. Even for demons, the footsteps are too slow and too disconnected. Gengu sat down and leaned against the rock. “Why did the beastmen live inside the forest scattered all over? Malfas, did you never consider that?” (Gengu) “T-That’s because they settled according to their tribes...” (Malfas) “No, it’s different.” (Gengu) Thrusting a hand in his luggage, he took our a sandwich with plenty of meat put in-between. Splitting that into two pieces, he handed one piece to Malfas and bit into the other one. “Tigers and wolves... us and you, even those of the same tribe split up into several settlements. Putting it the other way, even humans and elves lived together, not to speak of the dispersed beastmen in the slums.” (Gengu) Malfas also bites into the sandwich and enjoys the taste of the meat which was blended with a fragrant sauce. Suddenly he remembers that he never ate food, that was prepared like this, when he lived in the forest. He stares at the sandwich with complicated feelings. “In the end it’s just as you said before, fight if you see another tribe and be simply satisfied with surviving from day to day. And that’s why the beastmen never progressed. ... In reality I should have thought about that a lot more during my time in the slums. Seeing the humans’ cities... or rather, Hifumi-san’s city, I was forced to realize the real meaning for the first time.” (Gengu) “However, since beastmen are strong, they can live in the wastelands. We even repelled the humans...” (Malfas) Gengu laughed scornfully with a “Humph” at Malfas objection. “Until now, that is. There’s nothing that never changes. Beastmen slaves decreased in number and we learned how to create a city and live in it. We also comprehended that it’s possible to live together with other races. Of course there are bad things. The demons, the lot that became free; there’s no doubt that they hate the elves. Even the humans learned various ways of fighting after being taught by Hifumi-san. We were taught as well, but if you ask me whether we are able to use that knowledge skilfully, I guess there’s still a long way to go for that to happen.” (Gengu) He shows the remaining sandwich and swings it around. “For us there are very likely many things that we haven’t learned yet and if we did, are unable to do. Being able to make delicious food is one of them...” (Gengu) He tosses the remaining sandwich in his mouth and drinks some water from his flask. “Probably the guys, who have been living in separate settlements until now, have been crushed by the demons or killed by the humans. Trying to enable the beastmen to use traps and group combat or having them take lessons in magic from the elves shows that Reni-san probably understands that not only the humans of Swordland are our enemies... Do you know why I decided to follow Reni-san?” (Gengu) Malfas shook his head. For an instant he wondered whether Gengu lost to Reni. That’s after all the most simple and basic means of deciding the relationship between fellow beastmen. However, the abilities between a sheep beastman and a wolf beastman are fundamentally too different. Gengu held up his hand with its sharp claws and furrowed his brows. “Beastmen are proud of their speed and strength, and thus there are only guys who think that everything can be decided by that. If there’s a guy who’s stronger than me, I either run away or succumb to them. Only those two options.” (Gengu) “However, Reni and Helen are different”, Gengu remembers the time when he met those two for the first time. “Reni-san lowered the amount of enemies by increasing her friends. Turning them into allies, she tried to create an even better livelihood. She showed us a method to get benefits by making friends without fighting.” (Gengu) “... That is, wasn’t she taught that by that man?” (Malfas) “You idiot. Don’t you use your head properly?” (Gengu) Drinking one more sip of water, he puts the flask back into the bundle of luggages. to the degree of Hifumi-san exists. Whether it’s humans or beastmen, he will kill them if they become his enemies and he will use them as bait if they are his allies. What makes Reni-san amazing is that she only used the good parts of what she was taught by such guy. That ain’t normal. In a good meaning.” (Gengu) Even Gengu thinks that Viine’s reaction towards Hifumi as female beastman is more befitting than Reni’s. Thinking that she wants his children if he’s a strong male is a natural response for a female beastman. It’s her instinct telling her that it’s necessary to leave behind descendants. “Once we return to the slums, try to look a bit more precisely at the things Reni-san does. And, maybe with what feelings the surroundings get in contact with Reni-san, I guess. Surviving and fighting one’s enemy aren’t necessarily the same thing. I think you know that.” (Gengu) He quietly looked in the direction of the approaching sound from within the shade of the rock. A group of demons is walking through the wastelands while scuttling. A single one-armed demon, who was the only one on a mount, was advancing in the lead. Apparently for the sake of closing the arm’s injury, many bandages were tightly wrapped around his chest. His expression is a mixture of pain and rage. All of the soldiers had tired expressions. They were silent while having postures looking as if they were being crushed by heavy baggages. “... The humans repelled even the demon soldiers... eh?” (Gengu) The things which he had to tell Reni increased. Pondering about that sickening future even if it’s just a prediction, Gengu growled while baring his fangs. ☺☻☺ “Being appointed to Earl Tohno, I’m glad to see you in good health...” (Hifumi) “Such a greetings is good. It also means that you remember my face.” (Phyrinion) The former female knight Phyrinion, who’s the messenger that brought the handwritten letter of the queen, gave up on Hifumi, who completely ignores the customs of nobles as usual, with a smile. “Besides, I thought that you stopped being a knight after getting married, but I guess you are still serving the country.” (Hifumi) “To be precise, as the family status of my household is higher than that of my husband Vaiya’s, it took the shape of him being adopted into my family, that has only a daughter, as son-in-law. With me managing the territory, my husband has kept serving as knight.” (Phyrinion) Phyrinion’s territory, the Viscount Amazelt territory, is in-between the capital and Fokalore, in a place midway separated from the highway. Having a vast, fertile soil, it’s a famous place for being a wheat producing area from before Orsongrande became a nation. “I see. So, why did you come here as representative of the feudal lord?” (Hifumi) “One reason is gratitude. The things I was made to study here have been very helpful for my territory. At that time it was very difficult, but if I think back on it now, I had the privilege of indulging in a good experience.” (Phyrinion) Phyrinion, who stopped being a knight, doesn’t wear a squad’s uniform but a dress. Lightly pinching its hem, she bows. What she said are her true feelings. It was hard to carry out the territory’s census from the scratch, but once she finished its collation, she discovered the fraud and collusive relationships of the employed civil officials and the fief’s population’s livelihood became a bit easier as well. Given that the pointless expenses vanished, she was able to get some financial surplus. “The other one is me bringing a letter from Her Majesty the Queen...” (Phyrinion) “From Imeraria?” (Hifumi) Due to Hifumi holding out his hand while saying “Please show it to me,” Phyrinion placed the letter in his stretched out left hand while wondering Although it was Hifumi’s office where she was shown in, it’s originally inadequate for a feudal lord as place to receive guests. Normally there should be a room for audiences, but Phyrinion also knows that it had been shut down and turned into a rest area for the staff members. His characteristic black hair and eyes. His attire that was different from any other country. The single-edged sword which gave birth to his nickname “Knight of the Slender Sword.” Going by the parts she sees while being silent, he’s a younger boy with a somewhat piercing look. However, in fact he killed many people inside and outside the country and even killed the king in Orsongrande with his own hands. Or rather, he killed the king in the beginning when he made his appearance in history. I wonder, why was such person added as noble of this country...? It seemed like Vaiya didn’t know the full details, but from the documents of the Third Knight Order he belonged to and going by Imeraria’s decrees, it had been a plan to win over Hifumi, who obtained flashy achievements after he apparently came in contact with the wrong target, so that he wouldn’t be taken by another country. Whether that was successful or not; the conclusion of that hasn’t become apparent yet. Suddenly Hifumi’s gaze seizes Phyrinion. “She has written a drawn-out, forced reason, but in short she tells me to come to the capital.” (Hifumi) Throwing the letter on the desk, Hifumi grabbed a cup and drank the tea in it. “It might be about your activities in Horant? I don’t know the details, but there might be some kind of reward?” (Phyrinion) “No chance.” (Hifumi) Hifumi easily rejected Phyrinion’s assumption. “In Horant, Imeraria and Nelgal just frantically cleaned up the mess caused by an idiot. I passed my time by rampaging around after getting angry. In the first place, she would have probably written it, if that was the case.” (Hifumi) According to Hifumi’s prediction, the most likely reason is that she wants information about the demons and beastmen. Although she shouldn’t be aware that he has already gone to attack the demons. “She might be troubled over her treatment of the elf Puuse. ” (Phyrinion) “That one is a honour student-chan, so that will hardly be the case.” (Hifumi) “What’s that about?” (Phyrinion) “It’s something private”, Hifumi shook the hand with the glove on it. “That hand... did it get injured?” (Phyrinion) Even though she believes that to be improbable, Phyrinion still asks. “Ah, this is the result of me cutting it off myself. It’s no big deal.” (Hifumi) “Cut...” (Phyrinion) “So, what will you do with me who received this?” (Hifumi) Phyrinion fixed her posture which fell apart due to her getting surprised and glossed it over with the expression of a lady, but even if she changed her make-up, she still had some masculine traces of her time as knight remaining. “As it’s written. Please go to the capital and meet with Her Majesty the Queen. You will be probably told the full details over there.” (Phyrinion) “Good grief, even though I just came back... so, will you serve as my escort on the trip, Phyrinion?” (Hifumi) “You jest... I will return to my territory. Before that, I’d like you to allow me to stay in the Tohno Earldom for a while. Do I have your permission?” (Phyrinion) “Do as you like. Do you want to study something again?” (Hifumi) “No, I planned to learn about Vichy’s movements... and in addition to that, about the movements of the demons I heard about on the way here.” (Phyrinion) “Hmm.” (Hifumi) Hifumi reacted disinterestedly, but in his mind he praised her. He highly regards those gathering intelligence, and on top of that properly grasping the place where the important movements happen. It will be great if a lot more of such people appear. Once that happens, this world’s battles will become even more complex and unpredictable. “If it’s about that, it’s best to go to the border city Rhone. A temporary public office has been set up there. You probably know Miyukare and Paryu. If you listen to their story, you will probably find out various things. About the demons as well. Doelgar is there as well, but that one is a guy people won’t understand even if they understand the matter at hand. If it’s about hearing the story, Paryu would be the best.” (Hifumi) “It might as well be fine for you to go together with the relief soldiers”, due to Hifumi calling Caim, Phyrinion couldn’t calm down as she felt like she was entrapped in some snare. “I will, right... depart in around three days.” (Hifumi) “I appreciate your efforts on delivering the letter”, tapping Phyrinion’s shoulder, Hifumi informed Caim, who finally arrived, about his task and quickly left the room.

from a city to a nation. The mansion of Minosol, who turned from being the city’s representative into having the title of head of a state, is located there. To the very end the mansion is a private residence. The government’s office building is in its immediate neighbourhood. Every day he takes his breakfast at home and has a habit of commuting to work by carriage albeit the short distance. From the time he became the city’s representative, it never even once happened for him to be late, even after becoming the head of a state, but just today he appeared from the entrance to his home being several minutes overdue. The coachman, who waited anxiously, showed a smile for an instant when the figure of his employer at last made an appearance. But, understanding with a glance, he goes beyond worry and is clearly panicking due the weakened countenance of his employer.”A-Are you alright? Today you should rest...” (Coachman)”Ah, I don’t have such time... I haven’t taken responsibility for my choice...” (Minosol)Minosol, who boarded the carriage finally after being supported by a maid, seemed to have fainted due to the reports he looked over right after he arrived at the government’s office building. Even the secretary, who brought in the report, has a pale face. “It’s a detailed explanation...” (Minosol) “Yes. With no more than cities and their affiliated villages of the former Vichy participating in our Pearson faction, it seems half of the remaining cities have sworn allegiance to Fokalore and the others have formed an alliance continuing Vichy’s system of government.” (Secretary) “What has happened with the central committee?” (Minosol) “Only one has withdrawn for the sake of swearing allegiance to Fokalore. The remaining are preserving the central government, but because they give too much priority to the defense of their own cities, they can’t secure any backing from the other city representatives. If it goes on like this, it might also be possible that the committee will fall apart.” (Secretary) If war alone is the only exchange of lives, it might be not necessary for Vichy to break in pieces this far Though I guess that’s a strange thing to say for me, who dropped out first. But, if it’s mere war, you can mutually shave off the war potential of each other to some extent and at some point in time come to an agreement. Even if the defeated side has a painful experience in its finances and workers, it will probably end for them with just desperately reorganizing for a few years. However, this time it was different. Minosol considers the dreadful nature of the man called Hifumi to be a different aspect than his war potential. Luring Vichy’s allied forces into Orsongrande’s territory, he severely defeated and cut down their numbers. After that battle, the shaved off territories came under a just rule due to Hifumi’s leadership, clearly without exploiting them. The majority of the population says that it has rather become easier to live. If they prove their abilities, I heard that they can even be employed as town mayors and civil officials and even city representatives can be dismissed uneventfully. With this, for what reason should the inhabitants on Vichy’s side follow the leadership of the central committee? I guess it’s even inevitable that they harbor such doubts. In reality, many cities have changed sides to Fokalore because of that. Even among the cities remaining on Vichy’s side, there aren’t few places where the masses are revolting due to the representative showing an intention to remain. “To sum it up, we have been defeated in battle as well as politics. Sooner or later, the name Vichy might disappear...” (Minosol) The secretary lifted his head due to the muttering of just a few words, but Minosol waved his hand to not mind it. Currently they have to think about how to protect this country. “Please send a messenger to Fokalore once again. Just having raised its first cry, I want them to save this frail, infant country from danger.” (Minosol) The geographical isolation can’t be helped, but on the other hand, if we stay in Vichy and resist to the bitter end, it’s not unlikely that we will be completely destroyed this time for sure. Sticking out until the end now, Minosol chose to conduct themselves as friendly nation from the beginning to the end. ☺☻☺ Because of the commanding officer of the Third Knight Order’s group, that stayed behind at the royal castle of Orsongrande, playing a central part, the removal of the prince’s faction made progress. All of the knights staying within the castle have been substituted by knights affiliated with the Third Knight Order. Even within the political sphere, the influence of the nobles belonging to the prince faction has obviously fallen. Lotomago is the name of the Third Knight Order’s commanding officer. He was a man who was promoted in recognition of his accomplishments, not for distinguished military service but for his intelligence in the information warfare. He, who was born as third son of a not very prospering Viscount household, has an unattractive appearance giving of a feeling of constantly being sleepy with heavy eyelids. In any case, his features don’t stand out. Basically he is a type of character that doesn’t make an appearance on a flashy stage. Currently he has come to the actual site, which is rare for him, to give directions, notwithstanding that it almost never happened that he left his office. That Lotomago was now maintaining a watch over the Prime Minister Adol, even more so than over Hifumi and the prince faction. The movements of the prince faction are largely influenced by Prime Minister Adol as well. Despite bringing many nobles together, he has had a high evaluation for his reliable work befitting his title until now. He is playing a big part in winning over the nobles with rational persuasion. There is a rumor that this prime minister is secluding himself within the castle’s document room every night recently. Using a subordinate, Lotomago grasped it to the point of knowing that it is a fact. Though he didn’t yet know for what reason he is dong this... “... Really, there is such magic, isn’t that right?” (Adol) Prime Minister Adol grumbled while rummaging through documents related to magic, that are being kept in the form of thin, engraved lithographs, in the dim reference room.magic “Yes, of course. There is the summoning magic that Princess-sama successfully used. Even sending home is possible. There should be past records of that.” “What’s so funny?” A voice filled with laughter can be heard from the back of Adol. “... By no means I believed that the day, I would follow the talk of an evil spirit, would ever come.” (Adol) “An evil spirit has such an evil reputation, riight~?” (Evil Spirit) In front of Adol, who turned around, only a dark, pale face, shrouded in mist, is floating. That face, laughing with a clinging broad grin, was halfway wrapped in darkness. “I told you that I’m a death god.” (Shinigami) Adol snorted in displeasure due to the death god’s way of talking. “It’s presumptuous for an evil spirit to call itself something like a god. Leaving that aside, help me search as well, you bastard. If we continue at this rate, there is no knowing when we will find it even if there was a record.” (Adol) “I’m sorry to say, I still can’t restore anything but the face. Haven’t I told you at the beginning? Since I was slain by that katana of Hifumi-san, a part of my power is clinging to Hifumi-san and he wears it. At least I recovered my strength up to this point.” (Shinigami) “Good grief”, it shook the unnaturally frowning face. “Doesn’t your restoration take rather much time for something calling itself god?” (Adol) “That katana is dangerous. How to tell you? It’s blessed with the divine protection of a War God, okaay~ ? As expected, even I was on the verge of extinction. Besides...” (Shinigami) Completely changing from a smiling face, it changed its tone as if loosing its nerve and pouting. “Since the person, who I kindly offered my darkness magic, isn’t using its power, the source of my power is scarce, you knoow~ ? With him believing that nothing but the darkness storage is useful, the force of my existence won’t rise no matter how much time passes in the current state.” (Shinigami) “It’s a disturbing situation”, the death god complained. “Force of existence, huh... ?” (Adol) “Yea, we gods realize our form by relying on the faith of the people and thus obtain the power to manifestate in the world. Therefore, if he uses the power bestowed by me, the same power will be given to me as well.” (Shinigami) “If that’s the case, wouldn’t it be quite convenient for you, if Hifumi-dono continued to fight in this world?” (Adol) Due to Adol’s question, the death god’s tongue makes a sound of 「Tsk tsk」. If there was an index finger, it would probably swing it sideways. “Even though I may appear this way, I’m a major god in my original world. Since the gods and the rising of their believers are weak here, my original world is far more comfortable. Hence it is necessary to go with someone if they are sent back with return magic.” (Shinigami) “Our interests match”, despite the death god saying this, Adol has a grim face while consenting. “Well then, do your best at searching. Let’s bestow hope upon Princess-sama. Because the program of despair has already been decided.” (Shinigami) The pretext of despair called the notification of Prince Ayperos’ death was stopped by the prime minister. Fokalore’s territorial forces, arriving at Münster, were split into two groups after having rested for one night. A special task force with the goal of taking back the magic tools led by Origa and the main force that invades Horant from the front. It has been decided that Hifumi will enter first and head toward the royal castle of Horant by himself after discovering the magic tools and leading the special task force together with Origa there. The schedule for the main force is to invade the cleared out Horant from the front with a delay of day. Hifumi and Origa, who led chosen soldiers each, departed carefree toward the national border of Horant with a rail car remodeled into a wagon. The clear, blue sky is spreading endlessly. “Hifumi-sama, we were blessed with good weather.” (Origa) “Ah, that’s right.” (Hifumi) While basking in the warm sunlight, Hifumi, who sat down with a flump on the wagon, dozes off while returning a suitable answer. The surface of the wagon has a size to the degree of a K-car. The others of Hifumi’s group are sympathizing with the two soldiers on driving duty. The other wagons are also manned by two soldiers each. The two wagons are basically vacant except for the weapons and food. Their purpose is to be loaded with magic tools. The wagons, which aren’t heavy yet as there is only little baggage, make clattering sounds while nimbly advancing on the highway. They have already passed through the village close to the border too. It is estimated that they will arrive at the border fortress soon. “Once we get close to the border, lower the speed. I will get off to clear the path.” (Hifumi) “Ha! By your command!” (Soldier) The soldier, who somehow managed to catch Hifumi voice that was swallowed by the wind, answered in a loud voice. Before long, there are dozens of soldiers standing close to Orsongrande’s side’s fortress that became visible in front of them. The once completely defeated border patrol has already been changed. A part of the soldiers, that have been dispatched as substitutes for the defense, were commanded by the Second Knight Order temporarily. On the other side of the fortress there are Horant’s guards, I guess. A tingling air is adrift, but I can also see this with my far-sightedness. Hifumi, who jumped off the moving wagon, advances towards the position of the two soldiers standing at the border. “Thanks for your work. Let me pass for a minute. Ah, the lot in the rear as well.” (Hifumi) “Ah, yes. Please go ahead.” (Guard) The soldier, who apparently knew Hifumi’s face, opened the path with a nervous face. “It’s fine if you aren’t this tense. I will dispose of the guys over there right away.” (Hifumi) He smiled while drawing his katana. When he looks at the end of the pathway of the fortress, he can see three soldiers from Horant preparing their swords. “Ohh, as expected, the dolls won’t be deployed as border security, huh?” (Hifumi) While murmuring without speaking to anyone specific, he lowers the katana in his right hand. As he swings it with a slow swaying, the soldier’s from Horant also showed an increasingly tense face due to Hifumi crossing the border. “I’m Hifumi, an Earl of Orsongrande. I have some business or something like that with your king. Since I will force my way through, it’s fine to be a hindrance if you want to die.” (Hifumi) Hifumi is slowly stepping forward as if giving them the time to choose. The soldiers of Horant were bewildered, but none of them tried to run away. “Well done.” (Hifumi) The second the distance to his opponents decreased to meters, Hifumi broke into a run as if bursting open. The heads of the three soldiers were cleaved off in a flash. Without touching their bones at all, he cleanly severed only the soft flesh of the throat. Waiting for Hifumi, who calmly went out from within the fountain of blood he had created, on Horant’s side, were the figures of roughly around soldiers from Horant. “Aye, thanks for the trouble to come meet me. Besides, it’s nice that you aren’t puppets. Now, decide. Run away or die, it’s one of those two.” (Hifumi) Once the person in charge on site, thought to be a soldier of around 50 years, raises a roar due to Hifumi’s provocation, the soldiers came rushing all at once without order, ranks or plan. “That’s a bad move, you know~?” (Hifumi) “It’s better for me if enemies and allies are jumbled together. If you rush in disorder because there is only one enemy, you will probably hinder your allies”, Hifumi smiled bitterly. But he seems to be pleased with their will-power to plunge into it without hesitation though they are soldiers on the verge of death He is in a good mood. Lowering his body, he slips in between the soldiers, deviating from the center where the enemies are concentrated. With only this much the majority of the soldiers ended up losing sight of him. Hifumi, easily slipping through the enemy group, approached the man in charge and soundlessly beheaded him. At the time the soldier at the edge of the group turned his head around being doubtful as the voice of his superior couldn’t be heard anymore, the corpse of his superior, no longer having his head, fell to the ground. In front of him was the figure of the enemy who shouldn’t be there. “Uhii...” (Soldier) Even as he screamed, Hifumi’s left hand grabbed his face, pulled it down as if tearing it off and stabbed him to death. In that manner he killed the soldiers from the back of the enemy group by cutting them up roughly. When all of them noticed and inquired into the abnormality of the situation, around 10 had died by Hifumi’s hands and further 5 were accidentally killed by their own colleagues. Although they once again surrounded Hifumi, he sheathed the katana and clapped his hands towards the soldiers, who now kept their distance without closing in. “Yo yo! It was quite a sweltering fighting style. So, how do you feel about killing your friends after going crazy earlier? For the fellows in the center of your group there were probably some who felt the feedback of their own weapons, right?” (Hifumi) Some of them reflexively cast down their eyes due to Hifumi’s fully ridiculing words. “Good, in that case...” (Hifumi) Hifumi took out a simple metal staff from within his darkness storage. “Shall we continue then?” (Hifumi) In fact it is only the staff part of the chigiriki he took out. It ended up broken when he hit a tree during his own practice. Thus he decided to use it as staff. Among the soldiers, who fixed their stance in panic, the soldier, who reacted the slowest, became the first victim. The staff knocked into his temporal region with the force of Hifumi rotating it overhead. Including the simple helmet, his skull was smashed and the enemy died instantly. Pulling back the swung staff, he uses the force of withdrawing it to attack a different soldier and kills him. “Look, if you don’t counter-attack quickly, you will only be killed one-sidedly.” (Hifumi) Circling around to the back of a soldier, Hifumi locks his neck with the staff and, standing back to back, he throws him over his shoulders. The soldier, who was lifted up in a state of having his throat crushed, broke his neck and died. Just using a stick without even a blade, he kills his opponents one after the other while even being only one person. It is already making the surviving soldiers getting ready to flee. “Uu...” (Soldier) However, escaping from the battlefield will definitely lead to the death penalty in Horant. Running away or not, the result is the same. Dying now or dying after being caught and tortured, that’s the only difference. There were people who were viewing from a distance as the soldiers from Horant were killed one by one like that. It was Origa and the Fokalore territorial soldiers who had crossed the border following Hifumi. “... Is it alright to not help him?” (Soldier) Due to the situation of being outnumbered albeit not having a single injury, a single soldier ended up unintentionally expressing this, but regretted it right away. Origa’s eyes went below freezing point in an instant as they turned towards the soldier. “Do you want to interrupt Hifumi-sama’s amusement? And, do you want me to receive a scolding once again because I couldn’t hold you back from that?” (Origa) “N-No... I’m very sorry...” (Soldier) “Shut up and watch. And, if you are able, learn Hifumi-sama’s techniques. That gentleman wishes for there to be more fighters among the inhabitants of this world. Not to fight together as allies, but to fight as opponents of that gentleman.” (Origa) All of the Fokalore territorial soldiers being there are people who saw Hifumi’s battle in Rhone. As there is currently an one-sided massacre unfolding in front of their eyes, it’s probably impossible to fight that as opponent, everyone judged. Ceasing to watch such soldiers, Origa ecstatically turned her gaze ahead where Hifumi was joyfully wielding his staff and striking his enemies dead.

After waiting for Origa to finish crying, Kasha slowly spoke. 「 Something like sleeping together..... Why did you say such a thing? 」 「 ..... I’m sorry for worrying you. At any cost, I thought that I had to attract ... 」 Wiping away her tears, Origa gradually began to speak. 「 The affair that cheated us and turned us into debt-slaves.. 」 「 Ah, I’ll never forget! The merchant of Vichy.... Beirevura. If I see him, I will absolutely kill him! 」 Resentment welling up, Kasha gnashed her teeth and growled, now Origa calmed her down. 「 Fuu..... sorry Origa. I could not endure it on remembering. 」 「 It’s all right. I feel the same way. 」 In the past, when Origa and Kasha were adventurers, they had accepted an escort commission from a trader called Beirevura, who cheated them into owing a large amount of money. Though they tried desperately to repay it, Origa suffered from an injury, became unable to earn, and they were subsequently made debt-slaves. 「 But it is not possible to take revenge now that we are slaves. 」 Excitement subsiding, Kasha quieted down. Origa placed her hand on Kasha;s shoulder and clearly said, 「 I have not given up on revenge. 」 Different from usual, the intense emotion-laden words made Kasha look at Origa. 「 Hifumi san..... Master is powerful. The fight earlier today, and if master’s story is true, called as a hero from a different world, the Knights in the castle..... Moreover, making an enemy of elites of the royalty.. 」 「 But, our enemies, whether master will help or not.... 」 「 Therefore, I will persist in making master’s feelings turn towards me. 」 The reason for Origa’s strange aggressiveness today, Kasha finally understood. 「 So that is the reason..... I’m sorry Origa, I didn’t notice your resolution in facing master. 」 「 It’s all right. I too did not consult with Kasha either under pressure. When master quickly refused, after I cried, I became calm for a moment. 」 Abruptly smiling, Origa said slightly ashamedly. 「 Besides.... Master isn’t bad I think.... The bought items also, now don’t feel too bad. 」(TN: This sentence has a possible double meaning. She says “it doesn’t feel so bad”, where ‘it’ can be the master or the items. I think. ) 「 Ee.......? 」 「 Now then, it’s late, let’s sleep soon. 」 They stood up, and Origa crawled into the opposite bed. Origa’s explosive statement for some reason made Kasha go *dokidoki*, and she did not sleep easily. Marquis Raghlain was carried to the street of the hotel, then Hifumi entrusted everything to Pajou and quickly went back to his room and slept. Incidentally, since the main entrance was locked and bolted, he climbed in from the window he had left from. The next morning, Hifumi woke up before sunrise, tended to his katana, finished his daily routine of stretches, and then sat in seiza and meditated. Come to think of it, exactly one day ago I met those Gods. Since then, various things have come about. Freed from the restraints of killing people, able to practice techniques to the extreme. Hifumi thought he was truly blessed, living as a martial artist in the modern age was quite hard. It may be possible in a country at war, but in peaceful modern society, martial arts equalled violence. It was frowned upon for any martial artist to use techniques. Moreover, in case of death, they were blamed. Such a situation was indeed very vexing. Suddenly, a knocking sound was heard. 「 Master, breakfast is ready. 」 Origa’s humble voice reached the other side of the door. 「 Got it. Go on to the dining room before me. 」 「 Certainly. We will wait. 」 It’s not particularly necessary to wait though, Hifumi thought as he adjusted his hakama and looked at his attire. He was still wearing his martial arts dougi and hakama from yesterday. 「 I should look for a clothes shop, get the same thing made. 」 Somehow, Hifumi did not want to wear the clothes from this world. Finishing breakfast, for the time being Hifumi paid the hotel fees for the day, and took Origa and Kasha to town again. 「 We’ll go to the guild today. If there is time, I want to go to a clothes shop. As for the Adventurer’s Guild can anyone register? 」 「 Yes. Though the registration fee is silver coins, as long as there is no criminal record.... 」 「 Well, it’s all right then. 」 The matter in the castle is treated as legitimate self-defense. With Kasha as the guide, Hifumi was observing the town. As usual, the signboards could not be read, the literacy reate does not seem to be high. The signboards also had symbols and paintings carved in an easy-to-understand way. Be that as it may, I should quickly learn the characters to avoid problems in the future. Is there a bookstore here? On the way to the guild, there was no bookstore. 「 We arrived.... what’s wrong? 」 (Kasha) 「 It doesn’t seem that there are shops selling books here. 」 (Hifumi) 「 Books! Only nobles or scholars read them. 」 The conversation would shock a bibliophile, just how low was the literacy rate? There seems to be no habit of reading for normal citizens. Haa, with the literacy rate this low, books can be seen as high-quality goods, and the chances of libraries existing is very low. A great method of information-gathering is gone. Pulling himself together, Hifumi stepped into the guild.magic Unlike in novels, the bar and room is not combined as one. There were some counters in the back, tables for meeting were lined up along the left-side wall. The notices were placed on a board on the right-side wall. Several groups seated on the tables, looked curiously at the unfamiliar face leading two women. 「 The back counter, that treated as the reception. 」 (Origa) Approaching the counter Origa indicated Hifumi spoke to the woman sitting behind the counter. 「 Have a minute? 」 「 Yes. What can I help you with? 」 The young woman who had long red, eye-catching hair answered with a smile. 「 I want to register as a newcomer..... How is that done? 」 「 Our registration document was taken from us, when we became slaves I don’t think we get the same treatment as adventurers. 」 To Kasha’s words while shaking her head, the guild became noisy. Kasha having become a slave, seemed to be shocking in its own way. 「 Kasha is a slave... is it? 」 「 Origa too, has become a slave from an adventurer? 」 Hearing that Origa too was a slave, the surroundings became even noisier. A man was staring at Hifumi with a bitter gaze. Origa seems to be popular. Of course, Hifumi was unconcerned with such gazes. 「 Err... Once registered as an adventurer, the registration card can be reissued. Since the slaves are doing the jobs, the owner has to pay a charge. One gold coin is necessary for reissue. A new registration is silver coins. 」 What do you want to do? On being asked this by the staff, Hifumi thought it was inconvenient without identification papers. 「 Ah, whatever, do not worry about the money. Reissue for two. 」 Though Hifumi one-sidedly decided it, Kasha and Origa’s expressions softened. Watching them, the men’s gazes became those full of jealousy. The few female adventurers repeatedly glanced at him, somehow rumours about him started getting inflated. 「 Then, please fill out this form. 」 「 Aa, I will fill it. Is master’s name as Hifumi-sama agreeable? 」(Origa) Hearing Origa call him ‘master’, as expected was slightly gloomy, thought Hifumi. 「 Full name is Hifumi Touno. 」 「 To have a family name, was master a noble? 」 「 In my hometown, generally everyone had a family name. 」 「 Fuun.. 」 While filling in the age and weapons used (the name ‘katana’ did not exist, so it was written as ‘sword’), a large man drew near to Hifumi. 「 Oh, with those thin arms, you are not fit to be an adventurer. That stick-like thin sword? Such a thing, can it won’t even kill a goblin. 」 Even though it was said with a heavy intimidating air, Hifumi completely ignored the man. 「 You two are younger than me? I thought Kasha was older than me. Though I did not hear your ages when I bought you two. 」 「 You mean to say I look old?! 」(Kasha) 「 Your build seemed as though you were . Origa is ? Because she is smaller, I thought she was younger. 」 「 Uuu... 」 The large man was disregarded, Kasha and Origa’s attention was on Hifumi. Seemingly unable to endure it, the man’s face was flushed and grabbed the hilt of a huge sword corresponding to his huge body. 「 You bastard, don’t ignore me! 」 Ignoring the man yet again, Hifumi turned towards the smiling staff member. Kasha and Origa seemed to know her too, her name was Hera. 「 I want to confirm something. 」 「 Yes, what is it? 」 「 What happens if I kill someone who pulls out their weapon and assaults me? 」 Asked as such, Hera reflexively looked at the large man, and returning her gaze to Hifumi answered in a fluster. 「 With regards to weapons, it is not a crime if used in self-defence, the guild does not particularly question it either.... 」 What will you do?, To Hera who answered on tenterhooks, Hifumi smiled, thanked her, and turned towards the large man. 「 Is that so? If you draw your weapon, I will kill. Choose. Obediently withdraw, or die. 」 「 You bastard......! 」 Spitting out lines that seemed perfectly provocative, the guild became noisier in a very different way from before. The large man’s name was Okku. In accordance with his appearance he was strong, short tempered, uncouth, and was recognised as competent. He got along with young men and gave out honest advice as well. The other adventurers thought the young man was a fool for having provoked the big-shot Okku, and was overconfident in his power. However, one thing did not make sense to them. Origa and Kasha, who knew Okku’s power, did not even try to stop the man who called himself Hifumi. 「 Though I thought I’d teach you about the harsh reality, in a little while, I’ll make it so that you won’t be able to move~~! 」 Saying so, Okku pulled out his greatsword and grasped it with both hands in an instant. Slipping out of it’s sheath, the katana was swung, from bottom to top. The katana that moved faster than anyone’s words stopped above Okku’s head. Silence fell. Though it felt like an eternity, a short time later, changes happened. Okku groaned, the last sound he ever made. His right hand was severed at the wrist, leaving the spine intact, he was cut open from groin to head. The greatsword fell, body pitching forward and collapsing, Okku’s blood and entrails spilled out. 「 O..Okku! 」 Several men who seemed to be companions of Okku ran upto him, but no one faced Hifumi. According to Hera’s explanation, though provoked, Okku was the first to draw his weapon. They are purely scared of Hifumi’s power. 「 It’s been a while since I had this feeling of wanting to kill..... No, since yesterday’s interruption at the dojo. Still quite sharp. 」 Not caring even a little bit about the opponent’s state, Hifumi looked over his katana and returned it to its scabbard. Turning around, Hifumi smiled at the staff member, unnoticed put away his sword in the Dark Hole, retrieved gold and silver coins and placed them on the counter. 「 I kept you waiting. Is this enough? 」 Later on, Hera told a co-worker, that never before had she seen such a frightening smiling face.

The premonition that there might be some big event circulated among the population. Countless leaks of information, such as the soldiers, whose deployment had changed, and the apprentices, who lead the merchants visiting and leaving the royal castle, were whispering about it ahead of time. However, if it’s related to the demons, only a small fraction of the people in the castle had been informed about their arrival in advance, and thus the city became uproarious for a while when the central area of the big street running through the middle of the capital was suddenly closed off and it was announced that a group of demons and beastmen had arrived for the sake of having an audience with the queen. But, once it became obvious to the people that the human side was the superior one with the other side being the one visiting, and as the demons’ side was intentionally verbally lowered in their standing by calling it “having an audience,” the population’s unrest evidently calmed down quite a bit. The high efficiency of the information deliberately spread by the former members of the Third Knight Order couldn’t be denied. “But, the biggest impact has that man, I’m sure.” A soldier, who guarded the road close to the palace, turned his eyes towards the person standing at the entrance of the plaza in front of the castle during the conversation with his colleague. “Earl Tohno, eh? He’s been to the demon and beastment countries, no?” “I heard he retired, though. Well, I think the people feel like the capital will be alright as long as the Seemingly because they feel safe seeing Hifumi, there are many soldiers whispering such things. A soldier, who came running from the entrance in Vichy’s direction just moment’s ago, dashed off in the direction of the gate once again. Very soon the demons will arrive at this castle. At the entrance to the plaza. Hifumi, who boldly stands there with a calm demeanor while wearing the katana at his waist, gnawed on a fruit he had bought from a merchant a while ago. It has a touch of being like an apple, but its sweetness is close to that of a peach. Just as he’s wiping the long line of fruit juice running down from the corner of his mouth, Midas approaches. “Can’t you wait inside the castle?” (Midas) “I haven’t been invited to this time’s conference. I’m an ordinary person who just came to see the face of a few old acquaintances for a short moment. Don’t mind me.” (Hifumi) “Got it...any moment the elves and bestmen will arrive. After them, with a little distance between both parties, it’s planned to welcome the demons.” (Midas) “Hmm...Reni came here ahead of them. I guess the one coming together with the elves will be Zanga?” (Hifumi) He quickly bites through the fruit with the end result that it ends up in his stomach in a flash. “I haven’t been told as much.” (Midas) “Ah, I see. So, how long are you going to stay here?” (Hifumi) “Meeting them here and guiding them to the castle gate is my duty.” (Midas) He explains that the escort duty will shift from Fokalore’s soldiers and the royal army to the safekeeping unit in charge of the royal castle centered around the knight order at this point. While Midas was explaining, the commotion, which could be heard in the distance, got gradually closer. “It looks like they are about to arrive.” (Midas) Based on him expressly voicing out something that’s obvious to anyone, Midas might be nervous as well. Alyssa comes in sight on top of a horse at the head of the group with a carriage following her from behind. “Hifumi-san!” (Alyssa) Alyssa, who waves her hand grandly, made her horse advance while leaving the carriage behind, and jumped off its back in front of Hifumi. “Indeed. How’s the territory doing?” (Hifumi) “Since Caim-san and Miyukare-san are helping me out, I manage somehow...” (Alyssa) Several men and women exit the the carriage that caught up as they are chatting. A stir ran through the residents who were watching from a distance. “It’s really been a while.” (Zanga) “Zanga, huh? You were still alive?” (Hifumi) stopped as well. I’ve been spending a happy time with the various changing environments in this year. As of yet I still plan to live another another century.” (Zanga) “Well then, I’m off.” Saying so, Zanga took several elves and beastmen along and passed next to Hifumi. “If you’re going to start some mess, I’d like you to let us run away though, okay?” (Zanga) “If you don’t want to get involved, you just have to pay attention and watch your vicinity.” (Hifumi) No one around them heard the words they exchanged in whispers at the moment of passing each other. Passing as part of Zanga’s group, Alyssa also enters the castle as guard. It had been decided for Fokalore’s soldiers to be on standby at the plaza. Although they had somewhat nervous expressions, there are many smiling soldiers among them compared to the royal army’s troops. They are somewhat tired, but they look as if they still have a lot energy left in them. The supply members, who accompanied them, start preparing meals and other miscellaneous things. Fokalore’s soldiers start eating in shifts while sitting in a corner of the plaza. There were also some who saluted Hifumi after meeting eyes with him. As Hifumi answers by coolly waving his hand, a commotion even bigger than before becomes audible. “They arrived, eh?” (Hifumi) Orsongrande’s carriage, which was escorted by demon soldiers, slowly approaches. Blue horses and gray people. They were a strong stimulus for the residents, but without acting surprised, the guarding soldiers watched the vicinity warily. Once Midas stepped forward, the demons stopped. “I’m sorry, but I’d like to ask you to go by foot to the castle from here on. We will take care of the horses.” (Midas) “...Please give us a short moment.” A taciturnly demon soldier turned his horse around and led it next to the carriage. After confirming something with the people inside, he swiftly turns his horse and returns while grasping his reins. “I checked back with Vepar-sama. Please take care of the horses.” Midas calls his subordinates. Each of them receives the reins of the soldiers’ horses and leads them away to a corner of the plaza. “If we could have someone to teach us how to look after them...” (Midas) “Then please allow us to send someone along.” “That will be a big help.” (Midas) While the horses with their imposing bodies and round, cute eyes look in the direction of their masters as they are being pulled away by the reins, they are guided to a place opposite to Fokalore’s soldiers together with the care-taking demon. The first who got off the carriage, which was surrounded by soldiers, was Phyrinion. She wears a noble-like, conservative, impressive dress with a modest amount of embroidery. Grabbing its hem, she’s carefully descending with the help of the step. Behind her, Vepar showed up. “...Long time no see.” (Vepar) “Do you enjoy your role as queen?” (Hifumi) “Being asked that by the person who pushed it onto me sounds like nothing but sarcasm to me.” (Vepar) It was a talk not understandable for Midas who listened from the side, but he grasped that they have some kind of connection. “Well then, Your Majesty...” (Midas) “Have a look at that.” (Hifumi) Holding back Midas who tried to speak to Vepar, Hifumi pointed at the center of the plaza. A long and narrow pedestal has been installed over there and then covered with a cloth. “That’s something which was entrusted to the kingdom by the demons. It’s better you take a look before going home.” (Hifumi) “...Going home, that’s not what I would call it.” (Vepar) “If you want something, you should just take it by force.” (Hifumi) “Haa...We have to talk later, so please give me some of your time.” (Vepar) “If there will be such spare time, sure.” (Hifumi) The atmosphere changes. In a hurry Midas wedged his body in-between the two. “Your Majesty, I have been given the honor to guide you, so please, come this way!” (Midas) “Oh my, I see. Please take care of me then.” (Vepar) Phyrinion walks right next to Midas with Vepar and her demons following behind. Once the last of them passed, the entrance to the plaza was closed off by soldiers. Unintentionally Hifumi is inside the locked area. Although the soldiers pay constant attention to him, no one calls out to him either. Seeing as Fokalore’s soldiers are on the plaza, it looks like it will become a problem for him to leave. That’s what everyone thought. “Now then, I wonder, in what way are they going to make their move?” (Hifumi) Suppressing his itching heart, he taps the pommel of his katana with a finger. “This is the decisive battle. Don’t make me bored.” (Hifumi) ☺☻☺ “Going straight to the point, I have no intention to continue the war.” (Vepar) After the arrival it was planned to hold only a meet n’ greet and then start the conference on the next day, but upon Vepar’s wish it was decided to have an early meeting ahead of schedule. The attendees are Vepar, Imeraria, Reni, Zanga, and for some reason Origa. Each of them has advisors and escorts, but only Origa is sitting there all by herself as if it’s a matter of course. After a round of greetings and everyone besides Imeraria and Reni showing their surprise at the fact of Origa being Hifumi’s wife, the first to speak up was Vepar. “The demons obtained enough territory. If you allow me to complain as statesmen, it’s so much that we don’t know where to put our hands first as the territory is far too big.” (Vepar) Imeraria faced Vepar, who laughs pleasantly with a high-pitched tone, with a smile. “That certainly sounds difficult. We can provide you some advice if necessary.” (Imeraria) Verpar said that she wants to stop the war, but everyone present saw through the underlying intention of “quitting while ahead since they had enough gains.” Yet, Imeraria casually played that down. That’s equal to her saying that she doesn’t mind the demons occupying the country called Vichy. “...You have such a lovely face and yet you’re so cold-hearted.” “I’m going to become a mother soon. Showing my child an appearance as mother and statesmen that’s only gentle will be a disgrace.” (Imeraria) Everyone except for Origa dons troubled expressions, not knowing how to react, due to Imeraria laughing while stroking her belly. Origa’s expression is obvious even without saying anything. “To put it bluntly, if compared to the objective of a ceasefire, the occupation of Vichy by the demons doesn’t matter at all to me...in other words, to Orsongrande. It’s my duty to protect this country, no matter what else I have to sacrifice for that sake.” (Imeraria) “I give up. You got me there. I surrender. I don’t mind making an agreement right here and now. The demons won’t invade Orsongrande, and I will also have the troops at the border withdraw.” (Vepar) “You have my gratitude for making a wise decision.” (Imeraria) Imeraria smiles sweetly and brings it to a close with “The war has come to an end with this.” “Well then,” with that Imeraria turned her eyes towards Reni and Zanga who still haven’t said anything during the conversation. “What do the elves and beastmen intend to do?” (Imeraria) “We want to gather the people with aspirations and build a city somewhere as beastmen race. Until now we lived in a part of the wastelands’ country, but since we were driven out...” (Reni) Once Reni throws a quick glance at Vepar, she quickly averts her eyes. “Then I shall allow you to reclaim land inside Orsongrande. An area under the direct control of the kingdom, or, depending on the circumstance, I will talk with Alyssa-san so that you can use a part of Fokalore.” (Imeraria) “Thank you very much.” (Reni) The name Alyssa popped up, but after hearing about the details of the meeting, she quickly ran away while saying that there’s no way for her to be able to stay awake throughout the meeting. About this time she’s probably eating a meal in the castle’s dining hall. “Our people will live all over the place. Some will go together with Reni-chan’s group, others will stay in Rhone. As long as you give us your permission to live in this country, we will handle it one way or the other.” (Zanga) “Is that so...?” (Imeraria) Zanga herself is uncertain whether to go with Reni or to stay in the capital together with Puuse. Now that the entire race lost their task of sealing the demons, there’s no point in acting together, Zanga said as if complaining. “Understood. I will permit that as well.” (Imeraria) “I’m grateful...” (Zanga) The discussion advances so dispassionately that it’s almost a disappointment. Sabnak, who stood behind Imeraria as guard, imagined how relaxing it would be if the dissolution of the meeting could take place in the same manner. But, it’s scheduled for that to definitely not happen. “By the way, there’s something I’d like to request of you, queen of Orsongrande.” (Vepar) Those words were the signal from Vepar. Inside the handwritten letters between Vepar and Imeraria there was a shocking suggestion by Vepar that was treated as top secret. Imeraria personally had already accepted it. “In the battle with the humans, there was someone who stole an arm and pissed off one of ours...it’s that Hifumi. I’m sorry, but can I have your permission to let us fight against that Hifumi for a bit?” This request. Imeraria has already allowed it up to this point with “Do as you see fit.” Sabnak thought that the queen is planning to seal Hifumi if things go as smoothly as him becoming unable to defend himself, or at least shave off some of Hifumi’s strength by giving Vepar this permission. But, that’s not Imeraria’s aim. At that time Origa’s face was hidden, but once Sabnak, who was standing diagonally across her, carefully looked at her, he realized that she was laughing. “Your Majesty, we are going to leave. It would be better for us to not get involved any further, right? Zanga-san, you too.” (Reni) “You’re surely right. For an elderly like me, it looks like it’s become a little too exciting talk.” (Zanga) Imeraria didn’t stop Zanga and Reni who bowed and then left the room quickly while taking their guards along. After all there was no need for her to persuade them otherwise. “Vepar-san, is that avenger going to come here?” (Imeraria) “No, but, as soon as the location has been decided, I will be able to call him over right away.” (Vepar) “Oh dear! Magic? The demons possess truly magnificent techniques.” (Imeraria) Imeraria acted exaggeratedly surprised towards Vepar’s remark. Vepar, who doesn’t suspect any bad intention behind it, proudly pushed out her chest, but next it was Vepar’s turn to be surprised. “Then it will be alright if we can have it quickly settled in front of the castle. There are some soldiers on the plaza, but it’s wide and open. Hifumi-sama has been there just moments ago, too!” (Imeraria) “A match on the plaza in front of the castle, what wonderful idea, Your Majesty!” (Origa) Obviously agreeing, Origa raised a loud voice, too. “...Eh? Are you really saying that?” (Vepar) For Vepar it was a godsend suggestion. Even if Bashim, who harbors a bitter grudge towards Hifumi, took along some subordinates, it’s apparent that he will easily have the tables turned on him. “B-But, if Hifumi is attacked in front of the residents, our position will become worse, won’t it? Will it once again turn into a battle with you under the premise of a just cause?” (Vepar) “It’s fine.” (Imeraria)magic Imeraria gently put her hand on top of Vepar’s who’s agitated. “If a part of your subordinates go on a rampage, Hifumi-sama will suppress them. Even if Hifumi-sama were to lose, the things we have to do are the same. You will stop your subordinates, honestly apologize for their misbehavior and I will pardon it. If we announce that in front of the people, their fear towards the demons will fade, and it will connect to our diplomatic relations from now on. Don’t you think?” (Imeraria) Due to the contents which were proposed quietly, like a whisper, Vepar felt a faint urge to deny. After all it would take the shape of her, who finally became a queen, apologizing to another country. As if having predicted Vepar’s hesitation, Imeraria spoke up, “Oh my, it’s not right for Vepar-san to apologize for something done by me after all. Then, how about doing it in the following manner?” (Imeraria) Imeraria tightly grasps Vepar’s fingers and revises her suggestion. “I will send out my soldiers as well. While pretending to be humans, your side can aim for Hifumi-sama’s head to your heart’s content. The more people there are, the more incomprehensible will the situation become for the residents. And then, at a suitable time, we just have to stop our soldiers by calling out to them. There will be accidental collisions as well, but both leaders will jointly accept those as tragic accidents and we will boldly declare that there’s no need to fight.” (Imeraria) With that they would be on the same level. With the vague reasoning of “accidental collisions” both sides are going to intend to stop the fighting. “U-Understood. But, is that fine with you?” (Vepar) “I suppose there might be several unlucky soldiers. But...” (Imeraria) Imeraria fills the grasping fingers with strength. Vepar felt a slight pain, but she believed it to be a pain demonstrating Imeraria’s resolve. “This is an important matter. It’s something we have to do, right?” (Imeraria) “Is...that so? Understood...umm, best regards.” (Vepar) They separate their hands and then shake hands once again. “Let’s talk about the details. Right now.” (Imeraria) At the time when he was ordered to go summon Puuse, Sabnak had a ghastly pale face.

The demons’ invasion into Fokalore came to a complete standstill. Once Vepar began to genuinely work on the administration and government of Vichy’s territory by dispatching personnel all across the country, her subordinates, which were lacking in numbers even under normal circumstances, were scattered even further. For the demons, who originally survived in a region with many monsters, managing vast cities and moreover several cities where different races live went beyond being unfamiliar with it, going straight into the realm of the unknown. “It would have been better if we had done this after more preparations...” (Vepar) Vepar had prepared an office at her new residence. While approving one document after the other asking for instructions, she was at her wits’ end everyday. Her new castle in Vichy was in a remarkably huge city located in the central area of Vichy and is a building that also served as inn used by the politicians formerly referred to as central committee. All of the committee members had been caught and publicly executed as an example to suppress the humans. It wasn’t Vepar’s personal taste to do so, but to hold down the great numbers of humans with their few numbers, she decided that it would be the easiest way to rule them with fear by demonstrating their power. Since the strength of the demons, albeit being only few, was plenty of a threat for all the cities of Vichy, which had lost quite a lot soldiers against the reinforced soldiers and the first demon invasion, one might say that she more or less succeeded in her objective. But, there were also demerits to it. Because sovereignty wasn’t transferred peacefully, the peers of the committee members in many cities died or ran away. The populace that is scared of the demons had become easy to deal with, but the cities’ administrations had lost most of its staff with only the underlings remaining, forcing the demons to take over the city management, using trial and error methods. Among the demons, who were appointed as the ones in charge for the cities’ control, there were also some who quickly managed to paralyze their city’s functions by making the population more afraid than necessary through their tyrannical behavior, causing large-scale migrations and riots. “I-I don’t have any time for war right now.” (Vepar) “Majestyyy, here are some additional documents.” (Nyarl) The one who placed a huge pile of documents in of front of Vepar’s eyes with a thump was Nyarl who had become an aide of the king together with her partner Pheres. She managed to get ahead in her career, but with the surroundings of the current queen Vepar being too pressured with work, you can’t really describe her position as a fortunate one. “Excuse me.” (Pheres) “Ah, Pheres.” (Nyarl) “Don’t “Ah” me, okay? You are losing focus too much in front of Her Majesty...here’s a report of the war’s progress.” (Pheres) “Read it out loud. I don’t want to look at any more characters.” (Vepar) Looking at the document that was added in front of her with a fed-up expression, Vepar ordered Pheres to read it. “Uuummm...”Losses, insignificant. But, achieving our goals is still far off. The enemy’s defense is strong.” That’s all.” (Pheres) “Isn’t that the same as yesterday?” (Vepar) “Yesterday began with “Losses, none,” though.” (Pheres) Vepar felt a headache coming up upon Pheres correcting her smoothly with a serious look. ‘In short, that means not only are they at a loss how to continue against Orsongrande and Horant in contrast to Vichy, but they are even suffering losses. The group that got transferred to Vichy at first aimed for a border city called Rhone, but on top of an excessively firm wall having been built there, it had a magic barrier that appeared to be cast by the elves, and the demons received spear-shooting attacks through small, mysterious holes that had been prepared in the wall, causing considerable losses among them. After that they have been continuing their approach cautiously, but the more time passed, the stronger the wall became and the attacks became more severe as well. At this point in time it has developed into a complete standstill. “Having said that, right now we don’t have any leeway to send reinforcements...” Even the commanding officers on-site understand that we don’t have any surplus in the numbers of our soldiers. On the other hand, they also have their pride in having been entrusted with the war’s aspects, thus not appealing for reinforcements in the letters. Coupled with those circumstances, they apparently ceased writing about things in their reports as the situation keeps staying the same. “What’s wrong?” “... It’s just that I really want to tie a ceasefire.” Right now the demons, who hold an aggressive stance, represent the majority. Vepar had hoped that they might settle down after the occupation of Vichy, but beginning with Bashim, who is raging after having one of his arms taken away from him, there’s no indication that he movement towards war is lessening yet. It will take time, but unless we build a foundation and foster manpower, we won’t be able to win in a war. And even if we were to win, we won’t be able to rule those new areas. “In contrast to those utter fools, who don’t think of anything but battles and destruction, I have to also consider the future. Besides, I don’t want to go down in history as foolish demon queen.” (Vepar) “But, at this rate our numbers will only keep decreasing, won’t they?” “Isn’t there something like a reaaally amazing magic? Allowing us to destroy the enemy’s defense wall or such.” Continuing after Pheres’ calm retort, Nyarl bubbles about something ridiculous. While managing to hold back her consciousness separating from reality to some extent as she wonders, “I have come up with a method, but...if it fails, I will definitely get killed by the other demons.” (Vepar) Due to her turbulent words, Pheres and Nyarl stayed silent and looked at Vepar. “... There was a guy good at transforming into a human, wasn’t there? I believe he returned from a human city a little while ago. Can I have you summon him?” (Vepar) Vepar handed a hurriedly written document to the demon who arrived in her office shortly thereafter. “Enter Rhone disguised as refugee and secretly deliver this letter. You can claim to be a merchant who brought it with him after being employed by the demons to do so.” (Vepar) “I shall do as you order.” Respectfully receiving the letter, the man says that he will depart at once and leaves the office. “... All that’s left is to only pray that there aren’t just people like Hifumi among the human rulers.” (Vepar) ☺☻☺ Two months had passed since Hifumi started to train the knights while staying in the capital. It looked like the knight’s bodies had toughened up a bit. Only the most excelled among the knight order were chosen. As for Hifumi, he thought that the training is proceeding at an adequately reasonable pace. Not wanting to live in the royal castle, Hifumi had purchased an old mansion located around minutes away. He’s living there with Origa and several servants. Early in the mornings he meditates to relax his body, then he heads to the castle while jogging. All of his morning is used for training. After that, in the afternoon, he enjoys a slow life of training with Origa or hunting monsters on a whim to sell their materials to the guild. “It looks like you are still moving your body, but as person, who knows the you from before, I somehow feel like you are currently living the life of a retired soldier.” (Imeraria) He was told by Imeraria whom he met inside the castle, but since it’s a fact that he has actually retired after passing on his peerage to Alyssa, Hifumi didn’t have the slightest interest or intention to increase the troublesome burdens such as work or socializing any further. After being released from the hectic territory administration, Origa is fully satisfied with taking care of the housework for Hifumi as well as training and going hunting together with him. Even during the times when she occasionally ran into Imeraria while inside the castle, she always kept smiling. The national border is enveloped in a war, but Hifumi bluntly declared, “Alyssa is no little child anymore, so I will leave it to her”, without trying to get involved any further. Beginning with Imeraria, the people around Hifumi, such as Sabnak and the knights on surveillance duty, were full of worry wondering when Hifumi would rush out to battle against the demons. “Master, here’s your regular report.” (Viine) “Ah, Viine, huh? (Hifumi) The one-eared rabbit woman ran up to Hifumi who was oiling his katana in the living room while being bathed by sunlight after lunch had come to an end. Visiting Hifumi every few days in his mansion in the capital, she brought back information from Fokalore, stayed for a few days and then returned to Fokalore again. That was her usual routine. It seems she’s earnestly coming and going in a platform wagon while being accompanied by several soldiers. She stays at Hifumi’s mansion, but as for Fokalore, she make a round trip going even as far as not staying there overnight, according to the guards’ grumblings. While putting his katana away and scanning through the documents he was handed, Hifumi tasted the black tea with an expression as if he was pondering about something. The movements of the demons, the economic developments in Tohno Earldom and major events have been recorded in the report. Several sheets depicting each day during Viine’s absence were tied up into a bundle. “A large number of soldier in a short time, eh?” (Hifumi) “According to the information from the refugees flowing into Orsongrande, there’s no mistake that the country called Vichy has already fallen into the hands of the demons,” Caim had noted down. “Moreover, there had been a contact towards our side from the demons.” In a note put into the envelope together with the official documents to be delivered to the rulers of Horant and Orsongrande Alyssa wrote, “I leave it to you to you whether to pass it on the royal castle.” “Don’t push the decision on me.” (Hifumi) Taking the official document out of its envelope, he heads to a window, holds it up against the light and looks at it. It’s said that the sealed letter arrived through a merchant, who escaped from Vichy, together with the words “I was given that by the demons.” The merchant himself was suspicious, but as result of Alyssa, who couldn’t come up with a proper reason, trying to arrest him with just a vague reasoning, the soldiers were bewildered and thus started to act belatedly, resulting in the merchant in question managing to run away. “Boy, oh boy...” (Hifumi) It looks like it will still take quite some time for Alyssa to act like a proper feudal lord. “Vepar also appears to be confused by the battlefield suddenly expanding.” (Hifumi) He returns the sealed document and the report from Fokalore to Viine. “Please deliver this to Imeraria together with Origa. While you are at it, you might as well go talk with Puuse.” (Hifumi) “Yes. Thank you very much.” (Viine) Being told by Hifumi, “She’s probably in the middle of preparing dinner”, Viine runs into the kitchen while holding the documents at her chest. Viine’s appearance from behind as she runs while her one long ear jolts up and down is a lot more confident than before when she was still a slave. While continuing to make round trips between the capital and Fokalore, she has apparently gotten used to human cities. At the same time, the cities in-between the capital and Fokalore as well as the soldiers acting as guards were gradually growing accustomed to beastmen and elves. That might be boosted by the fact that they are no different to humans in what they eat and how they feel slowly becoming well-known. Nowadays Puuse often appears at official occasions together with Imeraria. At first, when Puuse’s inauguration as Imeraria’s advisor was announced, there were apparently a considerable number of people voicing their concerns on the square in front of the royal castle though. “... At any rate, shinigami.” (Hifumi) “You have called for me?” “You did something to Vepar, didn’t you?” (Hifumi) While not averting his eyes from the low table in front of him, Hifumi quietly called out to the shinigami who appeared behind him. “Well, I wonder what you might be speaking of?” Releasing an insincere, frivolous smile, the shinigami shrugged its shoulders, well-aware that it won’t be seen by Hifumi. “Fair enough. ...By the way, there’s something I want to know.” (Hifumi) “If it’s something the likes of me is capable of answering.” It bows its head accompanied by a nimble movement of its right hand, just like the polite bow of a noble, in an exaggerated manner. “Even though it’s the same dark magic, I suppose there are people who can allow living creatures to pass through it and others, like me, who can only manipulate things.” (Hifumi) “Magic is largely influenced by knowledge and concrete visualisation. Even if it’s the same attribute, the effect will change depending on its user.” “I see. Visualisation, huh?” (Hifumi) “If you use dark magic, there will be a great difference in the outcome depending on whether one is capable of clearly imagining what form it should take,” the shinigami explained in addition. For living creatures being unable to pass through the hole opened by Hifumi is very likely owed to him having read literary works in the past that doubted whether it would be normal for that to be possible. Meaning, Vepar’s imagination power might be quite high in regards to dark magic. I have no intention to rely much on magic on the battlefield, but if this mana were to be gone, I would likely lose this hand. As a matter of fact it’s not there anymore, but it’s a big help that I can still use it as fake. He smoothly removes the glove. “Ooh, it looks like you have been condensing dark mana. Moreover, it’s in a wonderfully stable state. Rather than something like the pseudo-living objects created with dark magic, you have accomplished a materialization that’s by far more reliable.” “You have my admiration,” the shinigami lines up empty words of praise. While listening to that, Hifumi stood up quietly. “A magical living object, huh? Are you any different?” (Hifumi) “You might refer to me as dark mana...divine power. Originally I was a human, but after I stopped being a living creature tens of thousand years ago, you can regard me as power of darkness, if you try to directly define my existence.” As there are people believing in a surrealistic being that brings about death, the shinigami has obtained the power allowing it to exist. By causing a huge number of deaths full of outrageous curses towards the world, the shinigami is capable of obtaining even stronger powers. “Thank you for the thorough explanation. It allowed me to understand things.” (Hifumi) As Hifumi thanks the shinigami while standing in front of it and staring at his left hand, the shinigami smiles broadly. “That’s wonderful then. ...Eh?” “It appears that you weren’t capable of escaping your basic structure as former human, doesn’t it? The shape of your skull is the same as that of a normal human.” (Hifumi) Hifumi’s dark left hand had seized the shinigami‘s face. Unable to dodge the attack due to its swiftness, Hifumi’s thumb and ring finger tightly held onto the shinigami‘s temples. “W-What are you doing...?” “Only disposal awaits a tool that served its duty. Besides, it would be a nuisance if someone were to use a joker like you, don’t you think?” (Hifumi) “Disposal, you say. Something like that...” “Is possible, right? After all magic depends on visualisation.” (Hifumi) Hifumi’s pitch-black fingers completely penetrate into the shinigami‘s head. They are no filled with power. They are simply absorbing the shinigami‘s body through the places where they touch. Due to the sensation of its own body diminishing, the shinigami started to panic with its calm expression falling apart for the first time. “No way!” “You said so yourself, didn’t you? You are dark mana in itself. If it’s mana, it can be absorbed just like a spell.” (Hifumi) He declared and placed his trust in the imagination that supplemented his belief. “P-Please stop... I granted you power and cooperated with you in other matters as well, didn’t I...?” Ignoring the shinigami‘s words, Hifumi places his palm all over the shinigami‘s forehead, having already finished absorbing half of its head. Its eyeballs have vanished as well, but despite that the shinigami opens its mouth, “Don’t you understand where your own soul will go once I vanish? Let alone hell, it might roam the infinite darkness! If there’s a guide like me...”magic Pushing his hand down to around the area of the shinigami‘s waist in one go, Hifumi scrapes off its body in one breath. “I don’t give a damn what happens to me after my death. I have no interest in anything besides how many I kill and in what way I will be killed while I’m still alive. Besides, I have gotten gradually fed up with being used by you.” (Hifumi) The remaining hands and feet of the shinigami started to move, trying to launch an attack, but they were easily erased by relentless palm strikes delivered by Hifumi’s left hand. Thoroughly, in order to not leave behind even the slightest fragments. “... Hmm. Certainly, it feels like I was able to replenish my mana. I guess it was useful at the very end. That’s nice.” (Hifumi) He returns to the sofa and rings a bell. Then he requested a new tea from the maid that quickly arrived in the living room.

A knight unit appeared in Prime Minister Adol’s room as well, but because they believed him to become an unlikely combat potential, he was postponed as target of the knight unit. For that reason, at the time the knights broke into Lotomago’s room and concluded gaining total control, it was already after the guard system of the Fokalore soldiers was put in place. “Wh...” Seeing the about in total Fokalore soldiers, with some among them even holding kusarigama‘s, swords and spears, crowding the room, the knight unit, which consisted of knights, lost their speech when they vigorously charged into the room.magic On the other hand, the Fokalore soldiers jumped into complaining severally. “Slo~w.” “You will be treated as apprentices in the Fokalore territorial army with such movements.” “You came entering without even drawing your swords. Are you morons?” “Rather, too many have been assigned to this small room, right?” “Are you making fun of Military Director Alyssa?” “Of course not.” Due to the Fokalore soldiers chaotically clamouring about, the knights believed to be made fools of and shouted “Shut up!” “From where did you bastards enter!? The soldiers are in charge of guarding outside the castle, aren’t they!?” While laying his hand on his sword’s hilt, the leading knight spit out these words. A counterweight sunk into his face. Watching the swooning knight, who is spewing out his front teeth and bleeding from the nose, his colleagues have become dumbfounded. The Fokalore soldiers look at each other with bitter smiles. “Is it inopportune for me to interrupt the words of Knight-sama?” “Isn’t it fine as we were told to kill them anyway?” “Let’s hurry up with getting rid of them and go to the next place.” The remaining knights drew their swords due to the speech and conduct of the soldiers, which didn’t try to show a splinter of respect towards the knights and had absolutely no tension. “You lowlifes are raising your hands against knights as inferior soldiers?” Those were words intended to daunt them, but without even caring at all, the Fokalore soldiers started to let the weapons, they held, dance. As result of the anticipatory training the Fokalore soldiers received in buildings like the Lord’s mansion, they are experienced in indoor combat as well. Enclosing the knights as group thrusting without swinging the sword as core of his attacks, a single soldier is dealing with the knights at front while the other soldiers slash away from left, right and the back. In contrast, the knights originating from the Second Knight Order are basically in charge of fighting outdoors. As they were hitting pillars with their large sword swings, they couldn’t move as they wanted. In the end, all of the five knights didn’t last more than a few minutes and were sliced apart like Kuai. “Uh... how to say it, it’s extremely gruesome... Are you fighting like this even in the territory of Fokalore?” (Adol) Once the battle finished, the hidden prime minister quietly came out. Looking at the knights having been turned into miserable corpses, he feels slightly nauseated. “Not so often after the war has ended. There’s rarely anyone acting violently in Fokalore.” “Thanks to that we will grow dull if we don’t go on expeditions”, several of them say. “So, about the talk from just now, it will be fine, if I guide you to the place of Knight Captain Lotomago, correct?” (Adol) “Yes, please. With us not being well-accustomed to the interior of the castle...” “Then let’s hurry.” (Adol) The Fokalore soldiers follow Adol, who has left the room at a quick pace, one after the other. “All things considered,” A single soldier muttered. “I’m glad I wasn’t in the other group.” Remembering their colleagues, who were assigned to another unit, all of them agreed. “Good grief. Something like running in a narrow, dark places is ideal for scary midgets.” Due to the laughter occurring in the rear, Adol was puzzled whether he should caution the soldier, but decided against it. (He should also be in the core of the soldiers belonging to the national armed forces though.) If he knew of the proverb ‘One rotten apple spoils the barrel’, even Adol might’ve agreed right away. ☺☻☺ “Fuee... *sneezes*.” A single Fokalore soldier was offered smiles of pity by his colleagues, as he had magnificently scattered his spit. “Ugh, how filthy.” “Bad, bad boy.” “Be quiet. We are almost there.” Having received the order from Hifumi to split into groups, they are proceeding in a quick march according to the map, they had driven into their heads for a long time. The area, they had been assigned to, is a section of the castle’s third floor. Not wearing any armour and with a sword affixed to their waists being the only metal in order to not make any sounds, no metallic parts are attached to them. “Do we have the aforementioned ball?” “I’m holding onto it.” One of the soldiers held out a small ball in his right hand. Within the dim pathway its red colour could be clearly seen. Being soft, the ball was crushed between the fingers holding it. “Whoa, don’t smash it here.” “I know.” “Shh! ... don’t go beyond this point.” As the three advanced silently along the path taking care to not make any sounds with their feet, two knights, holding lights, could be seen standing. With them chatting while facing the other way, they haven’t noticed the Fokalore soldiers. “... It doesn’t seem like the lot of the Royal Knight Order is around here.” “Looks like some people were killed, but apparently we have suffered some losses as well.” “Damn it... is Balzephon’s plan really going to work? If the losses become too large, it will be impossible to seize the castle.” “The operation has already started. We have no choice but to follow through now.” The Fokalore soldiers judged the two knights to belong to the rebelling forces by the contents of their conversation. Looking at each other’s faces and nodding, the previously shown ball was tossed at the knights. “Uwah!?” With a splashing sound the ball hit the armour, burst open and scattered a red fluid. “Ugh, blegh!?” A smell similar to rotten eggs spread from the liquid. While being confused by the surprise, the knights spit out with sounds of vomiting. The thrown ball was a plant’s fruit that gives off a terrible stench once the ripe fruit is crushed. Apparently its taste is delicious, but due to the smell no one intends to eat it. It was famous because it was used by children to play pranks. “For trashy knights, who turn their blades against the nation, a rotten fruit is only befitting.” “Only stupid simpletons would fight from the front.” As they thoroughly provoked them, the teary-eyed knights drew their swords and approached in pursuit. “You blockheads, there’s no way your swords will hit anything.” The soldiers from Fokalore matched their breathing and broke into a run. The knights, who wore armour, are too slow. While skilfully adjusting the distance so that they think they can catch up though they won’t, the soldiers are running to their target location while pulling the enemies along. “This is difficult.” “Don’t die if you fall over.” “It’s also no good to unexpectedly separate them. Where was the target location again?” “Don’t forget that.” They are running and running through the gloomy, hidden paths. Even at other places, there were Fokalore soldiers luring knights in the same way. All of them are heading for the same location. Towards the largest place in this building. Towards the dance hall. “What happened to the group that went to get rid of the prime minister? There isn’t any contact from the guys, who were restraining Lotomago, either.” (Balzephon) Due to Balzephon raising an angry voice, his knight colleagues look at each other’s face and nothing else. “... They likely also had the tables turned on them? Why are you saying something like you being strong without any basis?” (Imeraria) Balzephon turned a scornful glare at Imeraria talking calmly. “There is no way for us, who have continued to fight, to lose to the lot of the incompetent Third Knight Order, who only move around in secret for things like intelligence!” (Balzephon) “If you believe that, it’s fine if you go checking it with your own eyes. ... It will likely be unpleasant to realize who is the strongest person within this castle currently.” (Imeraria) Imeraria declared that in a nonchalant air. “... I guess that’s fine. I, who is the leading power of this battle, tell you, I will personally defeat those resisting crushingly!” (Balzephon) Entrusting the guarding to the knight, who continues to hold his sword at Imeraria’s side, Balzephon draws his sword at his waist and takes the remaining knights along. The maids are sitting in a huddle next to Imeraria. “Look forward to it. Once everything’s finished, I will have you stand in front of the people as queen in name only.” (Balzephon) “Just wait for that obediently”, Balzephon left with these words. Once the door closed, the knight, who remained to keep watch, stared at Imeraria and the three maids, who were sitting lined up side-by-side, again. “Don’t get any strange ideas. If any problems occur, I plan to cut you down.” In the instant he told his threat in a low voice, his neck was attacked by a sword sweeping sideways from his back. Cutting as far as half through the neck, a hard sound rings as the cervical vertebrae is hit. It was Midas, who stood in the back of the knight, who collapsed while scattering blood. “I’m very sorry for getting here this late, Imeraria-sama.” (Midas) Lowering his sword, Midas kneeled in front of Imeraria and apologised. “Please raise your head, Knight Midas. I’m valuing your work very highly. ... Just where the heck did you appear from?” (Imeraria) “Ha! As a matter of fact, receiving a request from Earl Tohno, I was observing the situation from a hidden passage. Because the number of enemies decreased, I used the opportunity.” (Midas) It seems like he is feeling ashamed for him not coming out at the time when Imeraria was hit a dozen times. Imeraria, who realized that, laughed unintentionally. “You endured it well. If you had rushed out at that moment, you would have likely been killed and the chance to rescue me wouldn’t have appeared. Once again, you have my thanks. At any rate, did Hifumi-sama foresee this state of affairs?” (Imeraria) “It looks like he was aware of several people plotting a rebellion. Because I would probably have been killed if I had declined the invitation, he told me to take the opportunity to conceal myself as guard...” (Midas) “Do you know what is currently happening?” (Imeraria) Midas lowered his head and shook it in reply to Imeraria’s question. “I’m sorry. I left the scene at an early stage.” (Midas) Imeraria, who thought for a little while, made Midas stand up. “We will stay in this room as is, Midas-san. If by some chance some knights of the rebelling forces came, they wouldn’t kill us quickly. Leaving that aside, please join up with Sabnak’s group.” (Imeraria) Imeraria gets up. “The coronation ceremony will be held. Please prepare for that.” (Imeraria) “Eh?” (Midas) “The rebelling forces will be cleaned up by Hifumi-sama before long. It’s not a matter to worry about.” (Imeraria) Midas had no choice but to abide to what Imeraria clearly declared. “Good grief, if you at least helped me gallantly, it would raise my evaluation of you a little.” (Imeraria) Although Midas also heard the words she muttered, he decided to forget them right away. It’s because it extremely unlikely for him to do something crude as sticking his nose into the affair of others. “You bastards are...” With only discovering several corpses of knights scattered in the offices and without finding the crucial masters of the rooms, Lotomago and Adol, Balzephon’s irritation only increased. Before the eyes of Balzephon, who next headed towards Sabnak’s room while making stomping sounds with his feet, stood a small girl. “The representative of the rebels?” (Alyssa) Visiting with her head inclined to the side, it is Alyssa. “You rude lass. If you don’t want to be slain, get out of the way... no.” (Balzephon) He brandished the sword with its blade blank. “I will have you atone for the sin of having made fun of a knight.” (Balzephon) The sword, swung downward with all his strength, only hit the floor causing Balzephon stance to grandly fall apart. Alyssa had averted its trajectory with the wakizashi she held in a backhand grip. “That sword is...” (Balzephon) It’s a sword with only a slight curve having a single edge. Its characteristic, as Balzephon had heard before, was similar to the sword with the name katana, which Hifumi possesses. “Hifumi-san’s... I wonder if you don’t get it. It’s a verbal message from Earl Tohno.” (Alyssa) Even though she was assaulted with a sword, Alyssa, who wasn’t perturbed in the least, retrieved a memo from her pocket with a rustling sound and read it out loud. “The stupid knights are gathering in the dance hall. End.” (Alyssa) It totally rubbed Balzephon the wrong way that she even went as far as especially taking out a memo just to say only this much. Alyssa, who easily avoided again and again the fast-moving, swung sword, jumped around with nimble movement. “Since olden days my speciality is to evade, you know. That’s because I have officially worked as ojii-chan’s guard.” (Alyssa) “Wait!” (Balzephon) At the moment Balzephon called her to stop, Alyssa immediately jumped out of the window. “... Fuck!” (Balzephon) Balzephon wavered while wandering around aimlessly for a while, but he doesn’t see any figures except the corpses of his colleagues up until here. Although there should at least be of his colleagues remaining, he doesn’t meet anybody. Clicking his tongue, he advances towards the dancing hall located at the centre of the castle with heavy feet at a quick pace. Soon he arrives in front of a large door leading into the dance hall. Once he opened it with a violent kick, he saw Hifumi’s figure there, surrounded by ten-odd corpses and furthermore encircled by knights beyond the circle of corpses turning their swords at him. Due to the loud sound of the door opening, the gazes of everyone present gather on Balzephon. “Ba-Balzephon! Do something about this man! He has already done in quite a few of us!” Yelling while dripping in sweat, it was a knight, who had been earlier hit with the fruit and was lured up to the dance hall. “Oh, at last the ringleader came?” (Hifumi) The instant Hifumi said that, the door in the back of Balzephon, who entered the room, closed. “Well then, aren’t there still around of you remaining? Use your head. Brace yourselves and properly look at your surroundings. Recall the things you have practised until now. With this it will be possible for you to finally fight me decently.” (Hifumi) Due to Hifumi’s laughter, Balzephon grasped his sword strongly and trembled with rage. Even if he only looked roughly at it, almost all of the remaining knights of the rebelling side have been gathered here. To put it simply, every last of them has been lured here and in the end more than 0 have been killed in a short amount of time. “Don’t screw with me!” (Balzephon) Forgetting about himself being led here as well, he shouts. “You idiots, all of you have been lured here abandoning your own stations! Furthermore, what’s this sorry state with only a single opponent! You should be ashamed!” (Balzephon) There also were knights, who lowered their sight due to his words, but there are also those feeling antipathy. “Balzephon! Haven’t you come here as well!?” “Right! In the first place, it is likely your fault for the operation going badly!” Due to the knights, who started to quarrel among themselves as if forgetting the situation, Hifumi made an astonished expression. “Get along with each other. After all we will do our best to kill each other from now on.” (Hifumi) Holding the katana above his head, Hifumi laughs. “Well, then let’s start now, okay?” (Hifumi) Balzephon readied his sword as well. At any rate, if we kill the man in front of my eyes here, all will turn out well

shall I absorb those with darkness magic just like at the time of the attack in the elven village? However there are no poles and boards like last time. While looking at the stones approaching with a speed that will literally squash him, he thought And unconsciously Hifumi’s body leaps. Kicking off the barrier next to the ground, his body slips through the rocks aiming for the gaps in-between them by matching the timing of their fall. Rather than the rocks, his visual field is completely zero due to the previously fluttered-down cloud of dust, but he moves his body by groping around with his intuition. Due to the rough surfaces of the the rocks his hakama got torn even more and the scratches on his arms increased as well, however he was aroused to a degree that he didn’t feel any pain. His cuff was caught by a rock he grabbed to hold onto it. Naturally he has no time to release it and retrace his steps. Finally changing the direction of the stone by hitting it with his foot from atop in a forced stance, he succeeded in running aground by making sure to lie down on top of the stone. His heart is beating loudly due to the quick appearance and disappearance of death’s abyss, but his fight still hasn’t ended. Crushing down together with the stone, Hifumi, who circulated the impact by taking a defensive stance while clinging to the stone with his whole body, held his breath within the risen dust. “My king. For caution’s sake, I shall examine the corpse.” (Phegor) “I leave it to you.” (Agathion) Sitting on the throne, Agathion gave his permission to Phegor’s proposal with an exaggerated nod. “Then...” (Phegor) Once Phegor released the barrier, the rubble, which was locked up within, spilled out alongside sand and a cloud of dust. Phegor, who is estimating that Hifumi is likely at death’s door even at the faint chance that he survived somehow, puts up his guard and draws the knife he always carries around, however his pace shows no wavering. “Well then, once I move the debris out of the way...” (Phegor) By no means is it a good thing to use magic that causes an explosion within the castle. If it’s Vepar, she will likely wash it away with a water current, but Phegor, who isn’t overly strong at that, decided to choose the method of pushing up the debris with earth magic. It’s just to confirm the cruelly smashed corpse of the human by looking below the stone. It’s fine to leave the clean up to someone else later. At the time most of the scattered dust had calmed down, Phegor concentrated his consciousness to the front to use magic while grasping his knife. “Yoo.” (Hifumi) What was thrust out was the face of Hifumi, who had closed his eyes, and the point of the katana, which didn’t loose any of its brightness. “What!?” (Phegor) Although he shouldn’t be able to see within the cloud of dust, Hifumi’s thrust accurately aims at Phegor’s heart. However, even while being surprised, Phegor was able to react. Swinging his knife, he was barely successful at grazing the katana’s point which lunged at him in a straight line. Even so he isn’t able to completely kill its momentum. The cold blade pierced into Phegor’s right breast. “Gu...” (Phegor) Phegor, whose lung got penetrated, grasps the bare blade even while enduring the pain and spitting out a vast amount of blood from his mouth. “I was careless, but... I will suppress you at least this much...” (Phegor) “Mu?” (Hifumi) Although Hifumi still hasn’t opened his eyes, he felt the presence of the same barrier as before. He didn’t understand the aim, but although he decided to take some distance temporarily, he can’t pull out the katana. Even while having a rib broken by taking a frontal kick in order to thrust him away, Phegor doesn’t release the katana. On the contrary, he curls up his body and embraces the katana. Tossing away the knife as well, he grabs the katana’s guard. Phegor laughed. “I will likely die very soon, but it will probably be impossible for you to confront the king if you don’t have this sword. Oh foolish human who goes against the king, you will die in this place. I will look after this sword until I have confirmed that.” (Phegor) Unnoticed the vicinity of Phegor, who closed his eyes, is enveloped in a barrier. Hifumi, who took some distance after letting go of the katana, breathed out through his nose. “Splendidly done, Phegor.” (Agathion) Agathion nods in satisfaction. “I shall convey your resolve to all demons. As central figure of the demon races’ revival and the attack against the humans and elves, I shall remember you properly.” (Agathion) Phegor doesn’t seem to have the leeway to return any words anymore, but receiving Agathion’s words with a smile, he bows his head. While the lord and his retainer were having this passionate exchange, Hifumi took out a water bottle from his darkness storage and completely basked himself in water. Having washed his eyes as well, he finally regains his sight. “So, did you finish your little chat?” (Hifumi) “Haha, you are quite composed, human.” (Agathion) Although he is feigning laughter, Agathion’s face has a cramp. “Composure? It ended incompletely without me giving the finishing blow. It can’t be helped that I’m angry.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who hatefully stared at the barrier that is secluding Phegor, brushed off the dust off his hakama. He brushes up his wet hair. “Something like the enemy dying unnoticed is the worst. Not feeling the moment a life is stolen with these hands is a disgrace as opponent who fought them. It’s the first time for me to have such unpleasant feeling after a battle while fighting in this world.” (Hifumi) “Besides”, pointing his finger at Agathion, Hifumi opened his right eye widely. “Although it’s nice to be an unconcerned spectator as well, are you able to resolve yourself to fight? Don’t act half-heartedly. This time I definitely want you to struggle for your life.” (Hifumi) “Humph, it won’t become a struggle. It will finish with an one-sided torture.” (Agathion) Before finishing speaking, Agathion fired an ice spear and a fireball. “Oh, how fast.” (Hifumi) However, compared to the gaps between the rocks he passed before, it was slow. While taking a stance with his legs in a L-shape, Hifumi dodges the lump of ice, which grazes his hair, with a sway of his head and avoids the fireball by walking. “As expected, your physical ability his high as well. But, how about this?” (Agathion) Agathion made numerous pellets appear above his head. With each of them having the size of a fist, those are giving off a lustre making one believe that their hardness is completely like metal. “I’m outstanding among the demons for my strength in magic. I’m especially skilled at earth magic.” (Agathion) Hifumi takes out a suntetsu and grasps it tightly within his right hand. “What’s important is whether it will reach me. Isn’t that right?” (Hifumi) “As you said. The answer to that will appear right away!” (Agathion) The pellets approach with a speed similar to bullets. They number ten. With no regular arrangement, there were differences in each of their speeds. If he is hit by even one of those, he won’t escape a serious injury. A magic attack, which will likely instantly kill him if one of them hits in a bad spot, assaults Hifumi. However, Hifumi began to run fiercely. “Great! There is such strong magic! This is definitely a different world! It gives the feeling that this is fantasy indeed!” (Hifumi) From the three pellets which came flying first, he avoids two and hits the last with the suntetsu. He intended to break it, but the pellet, which was harder than Hifumi imagined, hit the wall with just its momentum reduced.magic His hand, holding the suntetsu, has become numb. At that moment a partially delayed pellet hit the pinky of his hand holding the suntetsu and broke the bone at the fingertip. “Ouch!” (Hifumi) Although he exaggeratedly raises his voice in pain, he doesn’t release the suntetsu. “That’s it! This is the kind of battle I wanted!” (Hifumi) Dodging another attacking pellet, he bends backwards and strikes it with the suntetsu. Looking at Hifumi who is laughing loudly while shedding blood from his broken finger, Agathion frowned wondering whether Hifumi had gone mad. In order to get quickly rid of the lunatic in front of his eyes. Agathion created even more pellets. Even so, Hifumi keeps on advancing with his feet. He is shot without collapsing while avoiding one or two, but he doesn’t take any large damage. Hifumi runs up to the stairway leading up to the platform where Agathion is standing. A pellet hits his forehead, but shaking his head, he dampens its force. However, even if he avoided a direct hit, he was largely cut at his forehead. “I reached you.” (Hifumi) Although Hifumi was shedding blood at many places, he looked down on Agathion. He swung his suntetsu sideways aiming at the scruff of the neck of Agathion, who was befuddled as if having forgotten to attack, due to the violent strike. “Aah?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who felt a weird feedback, looked at Agathion who should be spouting blood. The boy who had half of his entire neck gouged out looks up at Hifumi while giggling. “How regrettable.” (Agathion) Even though he is missing his throat, Agathion talks without any change to before. The cross-section, which should have laid bare the bones and flesh, just showed something like a white sand without even a single drop of blood flowing. “My body is different to you normal living beings.” (Agathion) Agathion’s left hand, which was held out in front of Hifumi’s face, burst open. ☺☻☺ “What’s this!?” (Imeraria) Imeraria tightly grasped the letter she had read. Sabnak, standing next to her, doesn’t say anything. The one who gave Imeraria an answer was the kneeling Prime Minister Adol. “In title it’s “the protection of the citizens and the cleaning up of the monsters who became atrocious”, but...” (Adol) “Prime Minister, do you believe that soldiers are necessary to exterminate the monsters? No, even if you don’t believe it, the statesmen and citizens of Vichy will doubtlessly take it as an application of military pressure.” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who was at the end of her wit’s while sitting on the throne, breathes a sigh. “I understand that it’s strange to blame anyone in this case. If I were to ask whether someone made a mistake, it would definitely be me. With the absence of Hifumi-sama who headed to the wastelands and with Origa-san being in the capital as well, I ended up being careless.” (Imeraria) “... With those two currently not being present, just who the hell is handing out the instructions?” (Sabnak) Adol replies to Sabnak’s question, “According to the intelligence of the knight order, it looks to be the girl holding the position called Military Director, but... do you know her?” (Adol) Of course Sabnak as well as Imeraria know that person. “Alyssa-chan, eh...? She is energetic, but she shouldn’t be a child who does too unreasonable things. Why are you glaring at me, father-in-law-sama?” (Sabnak) “Don’t say you made a move on her before or something like that...” (Adol) “T-There’s no way I did that.” (Sabnak) Adol glared at Sabnak who is denying while shaking both his hands, but noticing how Imeraria’s look became stern, he hung his head in a panic. “Good grief... Rather than that, there’s no doubt that Alyssa-san is commanding the army, as Sabnak-san has said. Though I can’t really imagine that.” (Imeraria) “As we are talking about Hifumi-san here, it’s also possible that he issued the orders far in advance. It’s not only her either. Since it looks like the civil officials, who were released from slavery, have remained in that territory as well, Hifumi-san’s political foundation in that territory is firm.” (Adol) Not just within the kingdom but even including other nations, Fokalore is supported by stable economic strength and there isn’t any political disorder due to the distinct chain of command. “A territory within our kingdom being this good in shape should originally be something to be delighted over. But, as for me, I don’t feel like raising both my hands in joy.” (Imeraria) “Besides”, Imeraria smooths out the letter, she ended up crushing, with her palm. “With the fact of them having a connection to the civil officials, who will return to their territories after having learned in Fokalore, and the soldiers, who are transferred to all nations, it’s probably fine to think that Fokalore is aware of the military and economical information of many territories within our kingdom.” (Imeraria) “Such aspects are always researched by civil officials after all”, Imeraria murmured. “Hifumi-sama has a character of getting completely absorbed in battle, but it looks like he is cleverly and cunningly controlling those apsects as well.” (Imeraria) Due to Imeraria showing a vague expression making it difficult to distinct whether she is praising Hifumi or labelling him as dangerous person, Sabnak and Adol looked at each other and changed the topic in a hurry. “At any rate, what are they aiming for with the military movements during the absence of their feudal lord, I wonder?” “Good grief. Although the exchange with Vichy has finally increased and the vicinity has become stable.” Sabnak cocks his head in puzzlement due to Adol’s question. However, for some reason Imeraria showed an expression understanding all of it. “It’s simple. “That “stability” and “peace” are states not desired by Hifumi-sama.” (Imeraria) The looks of the two men focus on Imeraria. “Hifumi-sama undoubtedly wants to throw this world into chaos and disorder. He likely won’t be satisfied until blood-stained battles occur all over. And he intends to enjoy how me and the leaders of the other nations cope with that state of affairs.” (Imeraria) “That is, how to call it...?” “For that gentleman this world is likely very boring. Therefore, by stirring up things here and there, killing and causing instability, he is trying to change this world into an interesting shape for him.” (Imeraria) While Sabnak and Adol carefully listen to Imeraria’s conjecture, they nod with serious expressions. “... He will likely trigger a fierce war in a not so distant future. Adol-san, I think it will be difficult, but please work out the budget. Sabnak-san, please work on the training and preparations of the soldiers jointly with the knight order.” (Imeraria) “Her Majesty the Queen, do you mean that Vichy will turn into a battlefield?” (Sabnak) Imeraria slowly shook her head in answer to Sabnak’s question. “No. Most likely Hifumi-sama will bring a far more powerful and troublesome opponent along. From the wastelands or... from the other side.” (Imeraria) In the direction, where Imeraria shifted her focus at, lies the wastelands. Just what is that man currently seeing, what is he experiencing and whom is he killing? “Send a compulsory order from the capital to all the territories bordering the wastelands. Please station the royal army at all of those territories. I don’t know where the fight will start. Let’s get ready as much as we can.” (Imeraria) Sabnak bowed deeply towards the order which was announced with a dignified voice.

At the time when Phyrinion arrived at the city of Rhone at the border with Vichy and got off the carriage, some among the people, who arrived as refugees, got quite used to the city during those few days and started to do business. “Although it tends to be overlooked due to Earl Tohno standing out, even the processing speed of the administration in the earldom is wide apart from other territories, isn’t it...?” (Phyrinion) Hearing it from Caim, she knew about Rhone being used for the sake of receiving the refugees, but confirming with her own eyes that the city has started to function just like a city faster than she imagined, she could only mutter with her eyes opened widely. “Ojou-sama, where will you be headed next?” (Krinola) Krinola, who has been following her as maid even after she got married, descended off the carriage while carrying a bag with Phyrinion’s valuables in it. Behind her menservants are waiting for instructions whether they should unload the luggage from the carriage. “As it seems that they have been able to finish the temporary town hall, let’s visit that place first to give our greetings. Because it will likely be possible for us to get introduced to an inn there as well, take the luggage there.” (Phyrinion) “Then, with the carriage until then...” (Krinola) “No, let’s walk while examining the state of the city. We will leave the carriage here on standby. Once the inn has been decided, we will call the carriage over.” (Phyrinion) Having put on boots with low heels that are easy to walk in before arriving at the city, she strolls through the city that’s enveloped in an atmosphere which is starting to get lively, despite still being chaotic, while only taking Krinola along. “Simple stalls have been set up. Let’s grab something light to eat.” (Phyrinion) “O-Ojou-sama, eating food from stalls, you say?” (Krinola) It’s only to be expected for Krinola to be surprised. A noble’s daughter eating the rustic food of stalls is rare, or rather it’s something that’s almost impossible to happen. However, there are exceptions. “You should know that I’m also a former knight of the Third Knight Order. Living normally inside a city and visiting bars and stalls was ordinary. It’s different from food made by our chefs, but such things do possess a different kind of deliciousness.” (Phyrinion) “It seems they are grilling meat, so let’s get that”, Phyrinion walks swiftly and Krinola chases after her in a rush. What was spreading an savoury aroma in the central part of the city that has turned into a plaza was spit-roasted meat. Even though she chose a simple appearance for the sake of travelling, a noble daughter in a dress walking without any hesitation towards the stalls is something extremely conspicuous. If this was Fokalore, it would have ended with 「Such nobles exist as well, don’t they?」, but the ones organizing this city are mostly refugees from Vichy. While gathering many stares, Phyrinion still arrived at the stalls without feeling timid. “Mister, what’s that?” (Phyrinion) “Oh... ah?” Even the old man at the stall, who answered cheerfully after being addressed while focussing on the roasting, was surprised due to a woman in a dress standing in front of him. “What’s that meat on the skewers?” (Phyrinion) , which was caught by the soldiers of Fokalore, on a skewer... ma’am*.” “As I’m an acquaintance of Earl Tohno, you don’t have to mind your language.” (Phyrinion) Once she mentioned the name of Earl Tohno, the old man showed an enthusiastic, bright expression. “R-Really!? So, as for this lion meat, it’s a monster which the soldiers of Earl-sama hunt regularly. It’s delicious!” “I see. Can you give me two of that then?” (Phyrinion) “Wait a moment. They will be roasted well very soon!” The old man, who explains that he ran a stall in Vichy as well, looks happy and talks about the period of several days after he came to this city. Being chased out of the city where he lived, he pulled a wagon with just a minimum of luggage after hearing the rumours of being accepted here and finally arrived in this city together with his family. “After that, not only a home, but even this stall and the arrangements for stocking up were provided to me...” Before anyone realizing, the old man is moved to tears. Phyrinion listened to him while throwing in agreeable responses at suitable times with the her smiling poker-face she trained during her time as knight. “It appears that these are also sold at the city called Fokalore. You know, they even politely taught me the way of preparing these. It was my first time eating those as well, but they are delicious.” After lightly grilling the finely cut meat, it gets thoroughly cooked. The cooked meat is pierced on skewers and gets roasted until its surface becomes crispy. “Well, it’s finished. Here’s your two skewers.” Plenty of meat is stuck on the long skewers. Even one skewer easily exceeds grams. It’s an amount that looks like it will fill ones stomach sufficiently. “How much do I owe you?” (Phyrinion) “No, no, please take it for free! Seeing as I won’t be able to repay the kindness to Earl Tohno-sama in my life, please let me at least offer this to his friend!”magic Due to his oppressive manner, Phyrinion accepted the grilled-meat-on-skewer and thanked him. Handing one skewer to Krinola, Phyrinion heartily put hers into her mouth while leaving Krinola, who is biting at hers timidly with her small mouth, alone. “There’s no way that dangerous food is normally sold at stalls”, she accepts that as fact. It’s a common attitude among the former members of the Third Knight Order that was emotionally close to the common people. After the first crunchy texture, the fat of the meat, which contained the flavour of the vegetables that penetrated it thoroughly during the time of cooking, is overflowing with piping hot steam as it had locked up the savoury aroma during the time of getting roasted. “It’s delicious...” (Phyrinion) Rather than the strangely fussy noble cuisine, it allows her to experience a straightforward tastiness to an extent. It being several times tastier than the only-roasted meat skewers sold in the capital is something she slightly can’t agree with. Once she realizes it, even Krinola is rapidly stuffing her mouth while roughly breathing through her nose. “Anyway.” (Phyrinion) Passing the skewer to the old man, Phyrinion gently wiped her mouth. “There don’t seem to be any problems with Earl Tohno’s reign. It appears that you can even study here. Let’s stop the break at this point and head to the town hall.” (Phyrinion) Once Phyrinion introduced herself at the town hall, Paryu came down from the second floor to greet her. Although she looked exhausted, she showed a lovely smile thanks to seeing Phyrinion after a long time. “Phyrinion-sama, it’s been a while. You are wearing a beautiful dress.” (Paryu) “Thanks. This city seems to be in a very good state. I can’t believe at all that this city had been destroyed once.” (Phyrinion) “Hahaha... it was difficult.” (Paryu) Phyrinion gently places a hand on the shoulder of Paryu who casts her eyes down with a dispirited look. “S-So, are you inspecting the national border, Phyrinion-sama?” (Paryu) “Let’s see. Wondering whether I could be helpful to my husband, I planned to confirm the situation with Vichy and the demons since it’s a rare chance, but...” (Phyrinion) “In that case, we have gathered the information we heard from all the refugees. I can’t give it to you, but there’s no problem if you transcribe it. Do you wish to look over it?” (Paryu) If this was a feudal lord from another city, they would have been pressed with handling the refugees and wouldn’t even be able to think of gathering information like this. “Yes, that will be a help. So, was there some aspect that caught your fancy, Paryu? Such as the movements of the demons...” (Phyrinion) Paryu inclined her head to the side due to Phyrinion’s question. “If it’s the demons, they have already been repelled by Lord-sama though...?” (Paryu) Why don’t you know that? “What?” (Phyrinion) Once she listens to the details, she learned that Hifumi had long ago attacked the demons who attacked Vichy and moreover snatched the arm of their general after provoking him plentifully. “E-Earl Tohno didn’t mention that with even a single word...” (Phyrinion) “It’s probably because he didn’t consider it as important? I heard that he talked about it as if there wasn’t much of a resistance.” (Paryu) “That’s the problem?” (Phyrinion) Listening to the detailed account and furthermore looking at the documents prepared by Paryu, Phyrinion was at her wits’ end. “This is... doesn’t that mean that the humans, including this country, have declared war against the demons without Her Majesty knowing about it?” (Phyrinion) If one says it accurately, it was a provocation on the occasion of sending back the military forces that came to scout the humans’ power after beating them up, but it doesn’t change the result. The demons had definitely turned into the enemies of humans. “... I have to report this to Her Majesty through my husband.” (Phyrinion) I intended to send only simple information, but even if I have to employ adventurers, I must report this in as few days as possible. “I resigned as knight, but that doesn’t mean that I will ignore it as noble of this country... Haa, today will be an all-nighter.” (Phyrinion) “I will have Krinola keep me company as well. Tonight I will draw up a lot of documents and then send them first thing in the morning”, with that Phyrinion left the room prepared by Paryu. She did so while leaving the documents behind in order to request black tea and the arrangement of adventurers from Krinola who is unpacking the luggage in the adjacent room. ☺☻☺ “Please collect as much information about Hifumi-sama’s current status as possible. To be precise, it’s not just his current status. I don’t mind if it’s information regarding his previous movements as long as it’s something that allows us to predict the situation now.” (Imeraria) At the moment the intelligence that Hifumi departed from Fokalore reached Imeraria, she gathered several people she believes she can trust. Prime Minister Adol, Royal Guard Captain Sabnak, Vice-Captain Vaiya and Knight Captain Midas. And there’s also the elf Puuse who had been officially employed as counsellor in the castle. As for Imeraria, she wanted to have the former Knight Captain Lotomago with her as well, but she felt awkward to involve someone who retired already. “Moreover I want his abilities to be summarized and inspected once again.” (Imeraria) “That is... what is your objective, Your Majesty? If possible I’d like you to tell us...” “You don’t understand?” (Imeraria) Due to the fact that it’s a talk that mustn’t be heard by others, they use the room for conferences as venue and even the maids have been kept out of the room. In such circumstances Imeraria made Puuse sit next to her and is looking into the eyes of each of the men. “You want to know Hifumi-san’s character... is what you are saying, after such a long time?” “Right. It’s now after such long time. Having been manipulated by the things that man accomplished and did, I forgot to learn what kind of person that man is. ... Besides, it’s also about Hifumi-sama’s way of fighting.” (Imeraria) “Concerning the tactics invented by Earl Tohno, it’s not limited to our country, but also has been widely and openly made available to Vichy and Horant by him sending instruction units...” Imeraria countered Vaiya, who advised her with all due respect, with a question. combat technique Vaiya is at a loss for words. “I realized after participating in the dispute with Horant the other day. The protection of Horant, which was trained by a unit dispatched from Fokalore, is at that level and also I heard that everyone of the instruction unit that got killed had received Hifumi-sama’s guidance for a long time, but even so they still died due to Horant’s attacks. I saw the strength of Hifumi and Origa-san who directly received his guidance, but do you feel as if there’s a great difference between those?” The one who deeply nodded at Imeraria’s opinion was Midas. “Certainly. Earl Tohno’s movements are unique. There’s no one who can compare to his unmatched strength. The character of someone that accomplishes moving with a large number of soldiers is different. It’s difficult for me to express it, but isn’t making use of troops as he has been teaching a motion so that one doesn’t have to fight by themselves?” (Midas) “I see. It’s surely as you say, Midas-san. That man likes to fight by himself. He hates someone else stealing his enemies.” Sabnak agrees and Vaiya consents as well. “Are you saying then that you wish to investigate the movements of Earl Tohno as individual, Your Majesty?” Starting with the former Third Knight Order, Imeraria solidified her foundation through the military faction. Having said that, I wonder about him being a research subject for her as queen against the person called Earl Tohno.” (Imeraria) The atmosphere of her major vassals becomes tense straight away. Although they open their eyes widely, no one tries to open their mouth. What’s filling them is fright and worry. None of those present at this place except Puuse knows someone who lived after after opposing Hifumi. Imeraria predicted that reaction. “As everyone thinks, it’s a dangerous objective. It’s something that should be carried out carefully and discreetly. Hence, the investigation is a preparation for that.” (Imeraria) “Umm... is that all right with you?” (Sabnak) The one asking uneasily is Sabnak. According to his position he wants to prevent Imeraria approaching danger. He wants to stop it, but if it’s her will, that’s not going to happen. Him getting her to change her mind by herself would be the best solution, but there’s no hesitation in Imeraria’s look. “I have already decided. For the sake of protecting not only this country but also this world, that man’s existence isn’t necessary anymore.” (Imeraria) “I’m well aware that I’m saying something selfish”, Imeraria explains. “As long as that man exists, he will likely continue to manipulate this country and this world. A lot of blood will flow and countless disasters will be brought forth. ... I also won’t deny that I have a personal grudge.” (Imeraria) Imeraria didn’t talk much about her family that had been killed by Hifumi. “That doesn’t mean that I forgave him”, she simply mutters. “As for the method; I’m planning to use the magic sealing formula which I researched after it was discovered by Adol-san. Besides, I will have Puuse-san cooperate with us as well. As first step in order to make the sealing a success, we will use barrier magic.” (Imeraria) For the sake of obtaining this assistance, Imeraria promised Puuse protection and cooperation with the elves and the beastmen who became their friends, but since that also has merits for Orsongrande, it’s close to an assistance without any compensation. “And I have asked for the assistance of another certain person in order for the plan to definitely succeed. I have already gotten their agreement.” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who had talked for an unusually long time, suddenly felt a her throat being dry. She noticed that she had become tense without realizing it before. She wets her throats with no more than a mouthful black tea. “... It’s Hifumi-sama’s wife, Origa-san.” (Imeraria)

The messenger, dispatched by Biron, used a horse although he donned the appearance of an ordinary citizen. Burdened with a bundle of valuable seasonings, he has been ordered to say he is a merchant if something were to happen. As he met nobles, knights and soldiers, without knowing whether they belong to the prince or princess faction, he wasn’t able to request their protection. Even if he saw a soldier or a knight, he ignored them. He was given detailed instructions to appeal directly to Hifumi of Fokalore anyway. 「What’s your purpose in coming from the capital?」 「It’s on the way since I want to go until Fokalore to sell the spices.」 (Messenger)magic Even if the coming and going to the current capital hasn’t been restricted yet, inspections, doing check ups similar to the ones at the national border, have been set up. The knights of the Third Knight Unit being in charge of that, looked out for the movements of the other knight units. 「Hee, is this something that has been ordered?」 (Sabnak ) Sabnak poked his nose into this affair from behind the asking female knight. The messenger had his breath taken away for an instant due to the meddling questioning, but he recalled the details of the instructions he had received from Biron. 「Yes, it is an order from the Lord of Fokalore, Tohno-sama, I received through a company in the capital...」 (Messenger) 「That’s a lie.」 (Sabnak) 「Hifumi-san isn’t this fussy over his meals. Since the time he arrived at the capital he used nothing but food carts with the exceptions of his inn, the slave shop and the weapons dealer. He hasn’t ordered anything like spices. OK, restrain him.」 (Sabnak) Upon Sabnak’s words, the surrounding soldiers quickly restraint the messenger by tying him up. 「W-Why... ?」 (Messenger) 「Probably there is no one who knows Hifumi-san as well as us, the Third Knight Unit... excluding Origa-san.」 (Sabnak) “Bad luck,” Sabnak laughs. The messenger decided to try betting on the other party, called Third Knight Unit, rather than wasting time and lets himself get restrained. Considering the main goal or Biron, he judged this to be the best he could do currently even if he were to be punished later on. 「A-Actually...」 (Messenger) The messenger lets Sabnak see the letter directed at Hifumi-san situated in his breast pocket that explained the progress of the battle at Münster. Sabnak, having confirmed the signature of Biron on the letter, released the restraints of the messenger and told him to immediately go to the royal castle. In Fokalore the civil officials currently were in the middle of their hectic work close to feeling faint whereas the officers and soldiers had free time. The adventurers are plenty in dealing with the monsters without it even being any significant combat. Even in Arosel, where Hifumi had decreased the number of adventurers by killing some, there doesn’t seem to be any problem in regards to the numbers as some of the adventurers have moved over from Fokalore. As a result, while the territorial army’s soldiers are practicing in turns, the group of forces, Hifumi had coached, are debating about this and that. The weapons, invented by Hifumi in cooperation with the dwarf Pruflas, are undertaking tests. The civil officials are preparing to educate the civil official candidates from the new territories and are making a new family register of the territory’s population.The increased number of staff members and soldiers are helping out. Not a single person has time. Even the impudent Caim, with his usual facial expression, has increased his normal walking speed by two times. Since it became difficult for him to call out to the too many staff members, their reports are concentrated at Brokra, who assumed responsibility instead. But even he is on the verge of bursting. Miyukare has also summoned the vacating army forces as assistance, getting them engaged in work. Right then, Alyssa, who should be training together with the territorial troops outside the city, came running. 「Alyssa-sama, although you are as lovely as ever, what has happened?」 (Miyukare) As Miyukare welcomed her with her best smile, Caim, who happened to pass by, approached as well. 「Put more effort into concealing your desire a bit better. Director of Military Affairs-sama, is there some emergency?」 (Caim) 「Ah, un, the central committee of Vichy? or called something like that, a person has told me they came from there. Have them wait at the waiting room on the first floor, but...」 (Alyssa) Alyssa, not quite informed about the system in Vichy, didn’t understand well the thing called central committee either. Being called out at the place, where people line up in front of the gate, she brought him along without comprehending what would be good. 「Even though there was no contact from the national border... Understood. Please leave it to us since Miyukare and I will deal with it.」 (Caim) 「That’s a...」 (Miyukare) 「Un, please take care of it.」 (Alyssa) Miyukare, being dragged into it, reached out her hand towards the running-away Alyssa in vain. 「Ah, despite me looking forward to observe her from the shadows after reaching a point where I can take a break from work...」 (Miyukare) 「If you have this kind of free time, then please do your work. Since I am arranging for inns close to the mansion, you will explain the Lord’s absence. If they want to stay, lead them to an inn. If they want to go back, ask them about the reason of their visit, please.」 (Caim) Murmuring ‘Unlike you , I need some warmth,’ towards the back of Caim, who put an end to his instructions by quickly leaving, Miyukare went towards the location of the first floor. A single soldier came around. 「Miyukare-san, there is a message from the national border. A messenger is heading towards here from Vichy...」 (Soldier) 「I heard that already. He hails from the central committee. We have him waiting on the first floor.」 (Miyukare) 「Huh? It’s the personal messenger of a person called Minoson, being one of the central committee. We are currently having him waiting for further instructions at the entrance of the city...」 (Soldier) Miyukare was at her wit’s end due to the words of the soldier. 「Don’t bring Vichy’s internal troubles over here... For now I have to inform them about the Lord’s current absence. If the messenger intends to wait, have him stay at an inn close to the gate.」 (Miyukare) ‘This will be hopeless, if Hifumi doesn’t come back soon’, Miyukare thought. 「Let’s start by greeting them.」 (Miyukare) At any rate, until Hifumi’s makes his decision, the messengers will only bump heads, if they aren’t kept in check. She decided to discuss this matter at the meeting with the other civil officials. Until now Imeraria restrained herself from excessively using the deceased king and the next-to-be king as political arguments. But it had reached the point where she made use of them in the coronation announcement the other day. Although it had been a recommendation from the prime minister, she decided beforehand to strengthen her own foundation for the sake of protecting her younger brother. She considered this to be a necessary step. Without sitting on the throne as one would expect, Imeraria stood in front of the kneeling Sabnak and the messenger from Biron. With Sabnak in front, the messenger was in a place of having moved back a bit as he was someone with a different social status. 「Then you are saying that the Second Knight Unit and the territorial army of Earl Biron are in a dangerous predicament?」 (Imeraria) Due to the report of the messenger, who had been allowed to speak directly to her, Imeraria frowned. With the war on Vichy’s side not having yet finished either, it was an information she didn’t really want to hear about. 「At the time of my departure the city still hadn’t been directly attacked. But, observing the losses of the Second Knight Unit and judging the danger to be imminent, Earl Biron chose me to request for reinforcements as messenger.」 (Messenger) 「Why is it that this request hasn’t been sent towards the royal castle but instead towards Earl Hifumi?」 (Imeraria) The messenger, with a face full of sweat, hesitated to answer Imeraria’s question. If he answered poorly, rather than him being the cause, it would be taken as if Earl Biron was making light of the royal family. A reason, along the lines of ‘the territory is close thus they are in the same dilemma’, can’t be used. As the messenger wasn’t able to say anything, Sabnak threw him a life line. 「Imeraria-sama, isn’t this the result of Earl Biron avoiding to be dragged into the chaos at the royal castle?」 (Sabnak) The messenger wondered whether it was fine to say this, but he had no longer any other choice but to remain silent. 「With all due respect, including my Knight Unit, the people, concerned with the royal castle, have been divided into princess faction and prince faction. There was a strife over influence behind the scenes because Imeraria-sama’s declaration from before. Given that Earl Biron’s standing in this situation was still pending, it would come to him having to rely on either faction for even talking to anyone within the castle.」 (Sabnak) 「So how did this talk resulted in flowing to Hifumi-sama?」 (Imeraria) 「Most likely Earl Biron chose this method in order to support Imeraria-sama. But the news of Imeraria-sama’s announcement a few days ago and the prolapse with the First Knight Unit shouldn’t have circulated to the Biron earldom as of yet. Therefore, avoiding to contact the royal castle, entangled in its factions, he selected to directly appeal towards Hifumi-san, who is reputed to be the head of the princess faction and also can be called the strongest internal war potential currently.」 (Sabnak) 「I see... It seems that Sabnak-san is well aware of Earl Biron’s circumstances.」 (Imeraria) 「Since his family is the one my elder sister has married into, I am grasping the circumstances of the Biron earldom to a certain extent.」 (Sabnak) On that subject, Imeraria recalled that she met the wife of Earl Biron very long ago. In those days Sabnak hasn’t become a knight yet. She was a woman who gave her a lovely impression as she even seriously talked to the other party, who was a lot younger than herself. 「Sabnak-san. Immediately lead the soldiers... though I considered this, it won’t do, if you don’t help with the management of Hifumi-sama’s territory.」 (Imeraria) 「Yes. I have planned to leave the capital any time now.」 (Sabnak) ‘Since my brother-in-law is in danger, I really want to take her up on this’, perspired within Sabnak’s mind. Because she heard from Pajou about Sabnak’s popularity, Imeraria brooded over her wish to fix him as the core of the Third Knight Unit by raising some accomplishments if possible. 「... Which reminds me, there was a woman within the Third Knight Unit who owned a peculiar personal history.」 (Imeraria) Imeraria suddenly remembered the situation of a single knight, but she couldn’t recall her name. 「Is this about Phyrinion?」 (Sabnak) ( 「Yes, though I haven’t met her yet, she contributed to the administration of a territory with her father’s help since her youth. Following the wish of her father, Viscount Amazerto, she even became a knight, but originally her ability as civil official is excellent. Let’s entrust this task to her.」 (Imeraria) 「Eh?」 (Sabnak) 「I said to leave the assistance in managing Hifumi-sama’s territory to her. Please gather the soldiers and head right away towards Münster, Sabnak, since I will explain things to Phyrinion.」 (Imeraria) 「B-But...」 (Sabnak) Imeraria told the baffled Sabnak flatly. 「It doesn’t matter. I will give Phyrinion-san a letter explaining the reasons... Rather than the matters of the territory, they will be more interested in the information about the battlefield. Messenger of Biron earldom.」 (Imeraria) 「Ha ha」 (Messenger) 「As for your duty entrusted to you by Earl Biron, you will accompany Phyrinion and that chamberlain. I’m sorry that it will take some time.」 (Imeraria) The messenger was completely charmed by her lovely smiling face and bowed in a panic. 「Far from it! I am very grateful for receiving your words of consideration towards a single soldier like me!」 (Messenger) (The smile of Imeraria-sama has an effect as he has no immunity to it.) (Sabnak) While holding such thoughts, Sabnak had complicated mental state as to whether he should feel relieved of his burden, feel a bit lonely or even be delighted to have been given a chance to play an active role as a knight. 「... So?」 (Hifumi) After Hifumi, who came back to Fokalore, hears the explanation of Miyukare and Caim, who immediately came entering his office, he grumbled as if it was a bother. 「Most likely the central committee of Vichy is beginning to break up. The person calling himself Minoson is an old-timer within the central committee as well. It seems that the city, where he is working as representative, is the one most distant from Orsongrande.」 (Miyukare) Hifumi pondered while placing his hand on his chin. ‘What to do to cause the greatest chaos? Should the war become more violent? Or should the scale of the chaos be increased? After thinking for a few seconds, Hifumi gives his directions. 「Gather everyone from both sides, the messengers as well as those accompanying them. I will talk to them directly.」 (Hifumi) 「What are you planning to do?」 (Caim) 「Merely some harmonious chatting.」 (Hifumi) Seeing Hifumi easily answering Caim’s question, Miyukare judged it to be a definite lie. The conference room has become jam-packed when everyone entered as there is a large number of people. Accordingly it has become a small glaring contest between the messengers from Minoson and the messengers from the central committee. 「Good grief, what is Representative Minoson thinking?」 「We can’t consider this as anything but slighting the committee.」 People, who have a status to some degree, have come. As the two fat men are quarreling with each other, their armed guards are taking an imposing stance. Incidentally they haven’t been disarmed even though they have entered the Lord’s mansion. The ostensible reason of saying it is because they are dropping in for a short visit as adventurers is used here, but in reality, because of Hifumi’s words “If you want to act violently, then that’s how it is,” a fixed amount of guards has been stationed on each floor for protecting the staff members. Swiftly opening the door, Hifumi silently entered and sat down on the chair at the head of the table. Origa was standing at his back. 「And, what is your guy’s wish?」 (Hifumi) Suddenly inquiring about the real issue at hand, the messengers faltered for a moment, but the messenger from the committee, wiping his sweat, began to speak. 「I-It’s concerning the current war. We want to hold peace negotiations...」 (Messenger C) 「Tell this to Imeraria. I don’t care.」 (Hifumi) 「We-Well then, regarding a temporary ceasefire.」 (Messenger C) 「Therefore-」 (Messenger C) Hifumi glared at the messenger with his mouth crooked in the shape of へ. 「Such bothersome discussion is the job of the royal castle. Do not bring every single matter to me. I won’t accept any peace or discussions. However, if you are looking for a fight, you will get one. That person is?」 (Hifumi) The shoulders of the messenger from Minoson shook as the gaze of Hifumi, whose displeasure is at the peak, turns towards him. He takes out a letter while trembling with fear. He passes it to Hifumi through Origa. 「I have been entrusted with this letter by our representative who implored me to deliver it. If it’s alright with you, I wish to receive your reply, but...」 (Messenger M) Hifumi scanned the letter and looked at Minoson’s messenger laughing smugly. Without being aware of the contents of the letter himself, it was impossible for the messenger to understand Hifumi’s reaction, but he was relieved that Hifumi at least seemed to be in a good mood. 「There is an interesting story written here. Let’s agree to the entirety of the story. Since I am going to convey the contents to the royal castle, it will also result in being approved by the country and not only me.」 (Hifumi) 「Tell Minoson that he won’t regret the cooperation, if this story is the truth.」 (Hifumi) 「U-Understood!」 (Messenger M) Hifumi told the messenger, who was leaving in order to quickly return and convey Hifumi’s reply, that it would be fine to use the rail cars for movement until the national border. As the talks had ended, Hifumi decided to exit the room. 「P-Please wait! What the heck has Minoson...」 (Messenger C) Even the messengers from the committee, standing up with such a force that the chairs were knocked over, felt uneasy about the details that caused Hifumi’s sudden change. 「Ah, the city Minoson represents, eーto....」 (Hifumi) 「It’s Pursang」 (Messenger C) ( 「That place. Since Pursang and the surrounding villages have become an independent nation defecting from Vichy, they apparently want me to recognize them.」 (Hifumi) “This is a betrayal. We have to notify the central government at once!” “No, first we should head towards Orsongrande’s royal castle!” The messengers were disputing. Hifumi bluntly told them in a freezing tone, 「This is my residence. You are free to return or go forward, but since my business with you has finished, get the hell out of here right away.」 (Hifumi) 「Understood, since we will immediately leave, please, concerning the peace negotiations...」 (Messenger C) 「I told you that I don’t care.」 (Hifumi) He snorts in ill-humor. 「If you are an enemy, I will kill you. That’s all.」 (Hifumi) Watching Hifumi leaving without stopping this time no matter what they even say, the messengers dejectedly returned to their inn.

“What are they thinking!?” (Imeraria) Totally unusual of her, Imeraria hit the desk. Even Sabnak, who came to tell her the news, shows an enraged expression while pursing his lips just like Imeraria. At the same time as the the information about the death of Suprangel, Horant’s king, reached them, they got a message that an alliance of nobles led by Earl Aspilketa “The war with Horant was over! It was finished with Hifumi-sama defeating the crown prince who started an offensive against our country!” (Imeraria) Sitting down on her chair violently, she calmed her breath while sipping some black tea. “They have sent exchange students to Fokalore and there are also soldiers who have gone to Horant from Fokalore to instruct over there. Moreover, right after the king of an allied country passed away...” (Imeraria) “It’s a big problem.” (Sabnak) “Please don’t talk as if it’s someone else’s problem, Sabnak-san.” (Imeraria) “Good grief”, Imeraria faces a paper close at hand and dibbled the pen in the inkwell. “The households supporting Earl Aspilketa... there’s even eight houses involved...?” (Imeraria) While looking at the report listing the names of the participating nobles and the amount of soldiers they provided, she adds up the total number of soldiers. Actually mobilizing military forces of around , they have apparently departed towards the border in groups by each group taking a th of the total amount as “escorts.” Feeling a headache, Imeraria placed her slender finger strongly on her brow and curbed it. “Haven’t they mobilized almost all of their territorial soldiers with these numbers?” (Imeraria) “I fear that it’s likely so. Their aim is probably to completely take over Horant. I guess brother-in-law is... no, Earl Biron will confine them, but... likely they will cut their way through due to the numerical difference.” (Sabnak) “The nightmare of the former Second Knight Order might be re-enacted on a larger scale.” (Sabnak) Imeraria, who returned a nod towards Sabnak’s prediction, drums on the paper with the pen nib. A black stain spread slowly. “... It’s different. This time Hifumi-sama won’t be there.” (Imeraria) “A war will occur. Won’t he come running to participate in it?” (Sabnak) “Expecting that to some degree, we can’t get too optimistic. Besides, even if it’s settled by relying on that gentleman, something similar will probably occur again.” (Imeraria) Sabnak felt a doubt due to Imeraria’s words. “So, you are saying?” (Sabnak) Since I had a memory about the names lined up in this list, I pondered about it for the whole time, but finally I recalled it.” (Imeraria) The eyes of Imeraria, who lifted her face from the document, were filled with sadness. “They are all members of mother’s... the previous queen’s faction. After mother had died, they offered candid advice to me and Hifumi-sama at every opportunity.” (Imeraria) Although the most they could do was spouting sarcastic remarks in the assembly hall, that sarcasm was plainly stressful. “Perhaps,” (Imeraria) Putting down the pen, Imeraria looked up to the ceiling. “They are trying to oppose Hfumi-sama. Aren’t they believing that they can regain their influence if they raise deeds of arms? Since they likely know that I won’t stop treating Hifumi-sama the way I do, they think that they will be able to suppress me if they achieve deeds of arms exceeding those of Hifumi-sama.” (Imeraria) “And they are probably planning to assign a puppet of theirs as my prince consort”, Imeraria says. “What to say...? With all due respect, I can’t call that anything but shallow thinking.” (Sabnak)magic “I’m shocked”, Sabnak shook his head. “That shallow thinking is something that will incite the other nobles as well.” (Imeraria) “... Thus, how will you deal with it?” (Sabnak) “Right now I’m revoking the status of Earl Aspilketa and the nobles who dispatched their troops together with him as support. Please arrest all of their family members. I will decide their fate later on. Designate Earl Aspilketa, who is the household’s head, and all the other family heads of the participating nobles as our country’s public enemy. Notify all noble households that those, who don’t abide to the prohibition of sheltering them, will be punished.” (Imeraria) “Ha! At your command!” (Sabnak) Imeraria continued to speak to Sabnak who straightened himself with his heels clinking together. “Sabnak-san, I want you to form a unit including the royal guards to pursuit the rebels and restrain the damage to Horant. Put emphasize on speed. I will convey to the nobles, who are along your way, that I want them to dispatch soldiers.” (Imeraria) “At your will.” (Sabnak) “And, I will take command in this pursuit battle.” (Imeraria) “... Ha?” (Sabnak) Not minding Sabnak’s bewilderment, Imeraria stood up. “Since I’m not taken seriously considering that I’m a woman, fellows, who do things like that pop up. Let me show them that I’m able to fight as well.” (Imeraria) Undoubtedly, the one she wants to show that aren’t the rebelling nobles, Though, it’s not like he can voice it out either. “Since there’s nothing like a military uniform for me, let’s see... it will be alright with a riding habit. I will be able to give out commands from atop a horse. We will depart together with the troops once the preparations are in order.” (Imeraria) Unable to stop the completely motivated Imeraria, Sabnak ended up with quickly organizing guard unit by choosing the elites. “... Which reminds me...” (Imeraria) “I have remembered something”, Imeraria muttered a few words. “Nelgal-san, who is supposed to be the successor of King Suprangel, is studying abroad in Fokalore...” (Imeraria) Recalling something quite important, Imeraria stopped Sabnak who was about to leave the room. “Is it possible that the other nobles are aware of Nelgal-san’s whereabouts and situation?” (Imeraria) “Let’s see... as we haven’t particularly hidden the facts, they might know about it if there are for example nobles who have their relatives study in Fokalore.” (Sabnak) Upon those words Imeraria lowered her eyes on the list of rebels she had checked previously. “... I think we have to at least confine those who look like they could become leaders to gather Horant if I cause a disturbance.” (Imeraria) Due to Sabnak agreeing, Imeraria raised her face and continued, “Besides, regarding Hifumi-sama, I guess we will keep him away some way or another. Even so, if it proves impossible to deal with the person himself directly, we will use someone close to him...” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who came up with those thoughts in a mere few seconds, hit the list laying on the desk. “Please contact Midas-san. Tell him to immediately head towards Fokalore while leading a mounted unit of knights. If he’s able to join up with Origa-san on the way, have him act as her escort, please. If it’s Midas-san, he is acquainted with Hifumi-sama as well as Origa-san. As I have heard that he is a knight who is able to deal with them flexibly, he is suitable for the task, I think.” (Imeraria) “Understood.” (Sabnak) Be that as it may, neither of them really considered that Origa would actually get kidnapped or killed. However they were worried about recklessly stirring up matters at parts they didn’t want to get overly much provoked. ☺☻☺ The last moments of the King of Horant, Suprangel, were gentle although no one took care of him. Enjoying a wine produced in Orsongrande, which arrived from Nelgal who is studying in Fokalore, during his dinner, he was seen off by the chamberlains as he entered his bedroom with a red face. Suprangel, who was already at an advanced age, often slept together with one of his favourite mistresses depending on the mood of the moment, but he basically liked to go sleep at ease by himself. On this day he also fell asleep alone without calling out to one of his several favourite mistresses. And, he never woke up again. The next morning an uproar spread in the blinking of an eye due to the scream of the maid who came to wake the king up. What made the timing bad was the absence of the heir, Nelgal, and for there being no influential person within the castle at that time either. Moreover, the civilian merchants, who were coming and going, heard the maid’s scream inside. Spreading the news of the king’s death to the vicinity of the castle without there being anyone stopping it, the coming and going merchants spread it outside the country in a flash. Going into a frenzy to manoeuvre within the castle to seize the initiative, the people, who engage in the national politics, circulated the rumour of the king’s death to the civilians as truth without being stopped by anyone. Naturally the news are circulated by those who infiltrated from Orsongrande. And, in that situation where no one can do anything, the information of Orsongrande dispatching its troops reached the castle. “Well then, there’s no one else but those of you I called here. There are talks that soldiers are heading to our country from your own country. It’s about that.” In the royal castle, which misses its lord, an old man, who hails from the same generation as Suprangel and who possesses the position of Minister of Government Affairs, began to speak slowly while facing the other party he had called. “I have thought that our country realised a peaceful, progressive exchange after experiencing a disastrous clash with your country... with you guys’ lord.” Deliberately stressing the close relationship with Hifumi and Fokalore, which is his territory, it turns into a wording aiming to restraint them, but the people themselves haven’t noticed. They don’t have that much leeway. “It’s just as you say, Minister-sama.” In response, a man with the strange name Ma Kalme, who was entrusted with the task of being the captain of the instruction unit which was dispatched to Horant, gave an answer. Being asked whether his family name is Kalme by Hifumi, as commoner, who has no family name, he answered that both of them are his name and that name was memorable right away. Only wearing a leather breastplate as light armour for a soldier, he ended up handing over his weapons at the time they entered the castle, but usually a large knife and a kusarigama are hanging at his waist while clinking. Although his appearance gives a rustic impression with the conspicuous unshaven face, he handles leading a small unit flawlessly even if he is led by someone since he chooses his next action swiftly after properly observing his surroundings one way or the other. “That’s why our boss... Earl-Tohno-sama dispatched us to this place. ... So, what’s wrong with that?” (Ma) “Gu...” Being asked directly, the minister gritted his molars. If he makes a mistake in his choice here, the instruction unit might change into an aggressive unit just like that. “L-Let’s talk honestly. I’d like to borrow your strength to avoid a battle by you persuading the soldiers who have been dispatched by your country.” “Haa. Persuade, you say...” (Ma) Scratching his shortly cut hair while grumbling, Ma Kalme groaned. “That lot will likely be held back by Earl Biron at Orsongrande’s national border. No matter how I think about it, it’s probably not an action intended by the princess, ooops, Her Majesty, the Queen.” (Ma) The minister showed a relieved expression due to Ma Kalme’s words. However, Ma Kalme keeps going. “Well, it’s probably pointless. As long as they don’t raise flashy military gains like our boss, they will be treated as simple idiots. Forcing their way through, they probably won’t pull back until they obtain a certain amount of military gains.” (Ma) “As there’s likely some way for them to have a chance for winning, they won’t give up until they can realize results with that”, Ma Kalme continued. “Well then... then, you guys...” Ma Kalme laughed while stroking his chin roughly due to the minister having a frightened face. “We won’t be able to persuade them, but we are able to fight them.” (Ma) Ma Kalme, who took out a single parchment from his pocket, swung it around after picking it up with his right hand. “A support demand has arrived from from Earl Biron stating “I request assistance in order to deal with the fellows who are trying to not only cause disadvantages to Biron Earldom but also to Orsongrande” came. Wahaha, if he phrases it like that, we won’t be able to refuse.” (Ma) “Weelll, I give up, I give up”, he laughed. “In addition to that.” (Ma) Although he smiled, his eyes had a sharp glint. “The soldiers of Horant who we did our best to train aren’t for the sake of fighting such retarded battle with idiots, who got lost in greed and prestige.” (Ma) “Shit!”, he spit out and his former smile returned. “We will borrow a location close to the border. Please also get ready in case we get done in by the other group. Well, we will do our best so that it doesn’t happen though.” (Ma) “I’m itching for a real battle as it’s been a while”, the minister just looked dumbfound at Ma Kalme who left while laughing loudly. ☺☻☺ “Hoo, that old man died, huh?” (Hifumi) “The official report hasn’t arrived yet, but there’s likely no mistake in that. Since there’s no point in simply waiting for the follow-up report, I immediately wanted to return home once...” (Nelgal) Nelgal, who received the notification of Suprangel’s death, first visited the feudal lord’s mansion where Hifumi is located. He really wants to return to his own country in a hurry, but seeing that he is studying abroad upon a national policy, it won’t do if he leaves the area without notifying the representative of this place either. “Luckily there are also the guards I have brought along from Horant. And we have horses and a carriage, too. I’m pondering whether I should return quickly first.” (Nelgal) By all rights, Nelgal, who has the status of succeeding as king, should be someone above Hifumi, who is no more than single noble of Orsongrande, but the attitudes of both are completely reversed. He was afraid that he would be beaten black and blue by Hifumi himself, but there’s also a part of him that admired the material he was able to learn in Fokalore. “I will do my utmost to not cause you any kind of troubles, but I will be able to lead Horant in a good direction with the things I studied here.” (Nelgal) Nelgal, who finished his brief farewell, said 「Let’s meet once again」 and left Fokalore. “He is a diligent fellow. Although it’s alright for him to return without minding me in particular.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who doesn’t quite grasp his own influence, entrusted his back to the sofa and raised his arm with all his might while straightening his back. “Mmh~... Vichy’s side hasn’t moved. This might have to wait for a while until they cause an uproar.” (Hifumi) Washing down the baked sweets with black tea, Hifumi didn’t hide his yawn. “What a boring peacefulness. Having said that, it can’t be helped even if I make a move...shall I try going to the workshop of Pruflas for a bit?” (Hifumi) , Hifumi, who decided to work hard at weapon development and at the same time to take a stroll, knocked the katana at his waist and left leisurely. However, on that evening it became noisy in Fokalore. Alyssa was carried into the feudal lord’s mansion while being wounded.

“It’s not like it will go that well, right?” (Hifumi) “Uuh...” (Reni) Getting plenty of sleep in the hut, he has been using as his personal hideout, Hifumi enjoyed the refreshing sensation of having slept and the satisfying feeling of having killed his enemies while he took a late breakfast in a restaurant managed by beastmen. The ones who arrived there are the slums’ representative, Reni, and the vice-representative, Helen, who had these posts approved by the beastmen. “However, even if you disagree, it’s a fact that various beastmen are living together in the slums, isn’t it?” (Helen) “That’s right. But, if you don’t realize that this can be called an odd situation, the conversation won’t make any progress.” (Hifumi) Reni’s suggestion was to persuade the wastelands’ beastmen and to expand the scale of the slums. Although the king was defeated and the knights suffered quite a loss in numbers, the slums’ beastmen city, whose overall numerical disadvantage can’t be denied, will be in continuous danger from now on as well. In spite of barely continuing the exchange with the commoner’s area, even if it’s just for now, it’s easy to imagine that a debate over the subjugation of the beastmen would gush forth centred around the new king and the nobles, once the humans were able to reorganize the castle’s matters. As for Reni, it was a reasonable suggestion, which gathered the rivalling powers and kept them in balance, while pushing the preparations of the defences, made up of a fixed number of people, forward until then. Hifumi downright denied it. “You guys, did you forget why you were living by sneakily moving from one shade of a tree to the next in the wastelands?” (Hifumi) “Ah...” (Helen) “B-But, if it’s here, we can obtain food regularly and there’s a location to live as well.” (Reni) It was Reni, who tries to somehow object him, but Hifumi, who is stuffing his swelling mouth with vegetable leaves, similar to lettuce, answered while being unimpressed, “Are beastmen, who don’t know anything about that, simple idiots, who will believe you after they listened to your words?” (Hifumi) “If they are able to actually see it...” (Reni) “Will fellows, who don’t believe unless they see it with their own eyes, enter a city, where there are humans, just because they were invited to do so?” (Hifumi) “Uuh...” (Reni) Getting her suggestion completely crushed, Reni tightly grasped her hands, which were on top of her knees, becoming teary eyed. While drinking an after-meal black tea, Hifumi, without looking at Reni’s state, gazed at the slums’ main street outside the restaurant, where beastmen and humans are going back and forth. The ratio of armed beastmen is somewhat high. I guess they increased the numbers of the vigilante corps going on patrol. “Even if you leave it as it is, the number of humans and beastmen will increase, if it’s easy to live in this city, right? You will be able to raise the number of fellows coming and going between this city and the wastelands. If beastmen create fields outside, there will also be fellows, who get curious and come to talk, right?” (Hifumi) Drinking up the black tea, Hifumi, who observed Helen and Reni, muttered in a bored manner. “It’s half-baked, however you have stolen a part of the country and created a new place. The future depends on you guys. “Take the Nation” isn’t only about stealing and fighting. It’s also about becoming big and producing value. There’s money to protect the country. There are people. There is organization.” (Hifumi) He spins around the empty wooden cup. “As you were able to obtain a vessel, you have to create its contents now, that’s the point.” (Hifumi) Standing up and heading towards outside the restaurant, Hifumi looks over his shoulders and laughs. “Well then, do your best in the future.” (Hifumi) “Wait a bit! Isn’t it fine for you to teach us various things for a bit longer!?” (Helen) Helen, who rushed over with a force at the level of crashing her body into Hifumi, folds her ears and looks up to him. “We still don’t understand anything!” (Helen)magic “You know, rabbit-chan*.” Due to Hifumi grabbing her ears and bringing his face so close to hers that it was almost touching, Helen became silent while her face got spontaneously red. “Don’t learn anything and everything from people. Observe with your own eyes. As you have big ears, listen well to what other guys are talking about. If you got a brain, which was able to ponder how to run away, it’s probably capable of thinking how to survive as well, right?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who released his hands, walked care-freely towards the highway while waving with his hand. “I’m an irregular in this city. I have also told the lot, who I bought as slaves, to do what they like. This place isn’t the city of beastmen and it isn’t the city of humans either. It’s “your city.” Think about what’s the best thing to do, or no, rather what you want to do.” (Hifumi) “Do what you like. Although you will have to struggle in the future world, you will loose out, if you don’t enjoy it”, with those words Hifumi vanished into the clattering of the city. “... He’s gone.” (Helen) “”Our city”, huh...? Hey, Helen.” (Reni) “What?” (Helen) Helen, who looked at her best friend with a worrying face saying “Were you influenced in a strange way again?”, looked at Reni laughing and opening her mouth widely in an unusual manner. “What’s so funny?” (Helen) “Well, weren’t we told by Hifumi-san to enjoy it? Laughing like Hifumi-san and trying to do what we like, haven’t we become good at that before we realized?” (Reni) Helen tried to say something, but looking at Reni laughing with a “Wahaha” as if she’s enjoying it, she judged it to be better to let her do what she wants. “Oh well. I will do what I like too, I guess? Although there’s a pile of problems ahead, it will be endless, if I worry about them.” (Helen) The growth of the slums’ city, managed by amateurs, had still only begun. ☺☻☺ At the time Origa once gain showed up in the capital, Imeraria was still in the middle of hesitating. If she noticed that they discovered a sealing spell and not a return spell, at worst Origa might hinder Imeraria and Adol in some way or resort to force, if she’s prone to it. (For me she’s an opponent that I don’t want to provoke overly much, but...) That doesn’t mean that she decided to use the sealing spell yet. She is in a state, where she doesn’t know whether it’s valid to be used against Hifumi, but to say that she will seal him in this world without returning him to his original world; she can’t think of that as anything but being the worst act against Hifumi, who was summoned into this world by her, who is also the perpetrator. However... “If that keeps the nation alive, I have the duty to make that choice.” (Imeraria) Being notified about Origa’s arrival by the voice of a maid, she replies that she’s allowed to enter the room. The figure of Origa, who comes entering while making only graceful and quiet heel sounds, gives a mysterious impression as if she had received the education of a noble’s daughter in comparison to before. With her appearance of wearing a light blue dress with a design, that approached the dress from before, she is clad in a short mantle, similar to a cape, which has a sense of freshness to it. “Please excuse me for not contacting you for a while, Your Majesty.” (Origa) Pinching the hem of her dress and performing an elegant curtsy, Origa sat down on the sofa, which was offered to her by Imeraria. Her form of sitting down and arranging her knees was dignified and had composure, even seen from Imeraria’s point of view as royalty. She has heard that there are people, who make blatant, abusive remarks about Origa, who was a slave, among the gossipy nobles, however she can only think that Origa’s side is behaving more noble-like than them. “Origa-san, there are some things we have to talk about.” (Imeraria) “Yes, it’s about the the magic, which will seal my husband, Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) Due to Origa dropping a bombshell while smiling cheerfully, Imeraria’s mouth is flapping open and closed. “Your Majesty, you should practise hiding your expression a bit more. Someone like my husband acted in a realistic manner, even going as far as injuring himself...” (Origa) “A-Aren’t you accepting it too easily, Origa-san?” (Imeraria) “Accept what?” (Origa) Due to Origa asking her a question in return while being displeased to be interrupted in her precious boasting, Imeraria, who got her breathing in order, asked while sweating, “That is, the spell to seal him... you know?” (Imeraria) “Ara, I thought you had already been told by the prime minister.” (Origa) “... How much do you know about it?” (Imeraria) “I think it’s as much as discovering a sealing spell, which is ancient magic. So, which direction is Your Majesty’s heart taking? I want to hear that from you today.” (Origa) Origa, who slightly wetted her throat with the prepared black tea, is gazing at Imeraria, who’s lost for words once again. “My husband wishes for Your Majesty to lead the country “without relying on Hifumi-sama in the nation building,” no matter what methods you have to use.” (Origa) “However, won’t this count as being hostile towards Hifumi-sama?” (Imeraria) “Are you scared?” (Origa) Origa’s green pupils look directly at Imeraria. Imeraria can’t calm down as she is feeling as if Hifumi himself is looking at her from within those eyes. However, fixing her sitting posture as queen, she directly returns the look. “I’m always scared. However, if it’s something beneficial for this country and if it’s possible to realize it, I won’t avoid choosing that as sovereign. I’m not in a position, where I can decide everything following my own feelings.” (Imeraria) They stared at each other for a while, but unable to stand it, Origa burst into laughter. “Fufufu... I heard a nice answer. You will even fight a strong enemy for the sake of your people and for the sake of your country. However, you won’t do the impossible. Truly wonderful.” (Origa) Origa, who cleared her throat forcefully with a cough, erases her smile and shows a serious expression. She spoke to Imeraria as if slowly chewing on her words, “That’s certainly Hifumi-sama’s desire. Not in the meaning of fighting strength, but becoming strong by scheming in your mind. That gentleman has always observed your growth. It’s to a degree that I feel jealous.” (Origa) That’s probably not a joke. Although he’s a man, who is a husband and who has a lover, he has been watching over the growth of a woman of the same generation. “That’s why I told you that I would cooperate with you.” (Origa) Origa stroke her right arm. “Your Majesty, me and the people, who move this country, for the sake of proving that we can walk strongly without needing something like a hero or brave anymore, will deliberately fight with Hifumi-sama... although it’s to this extent, it’s that gentleman’s wish.” (Origa) “Such a... Origa-san, is that fine with you?” (Imeraria) “Of course.” (Origa) Origa replied in no time. “If it pleases Hifumi-sama, I will do anything. Besides, there’s also something I’m desiring.” (Origa) Letting out a giggle, Origa seems to be lovely as appropriate for her age. Her impish smile hasn’t a hint of guilt feeling either. “I will be able to spend the same time as the person I love for eternity.” (Origa) “T-That is, in other words...” (Imeraria) “After I have firmly seized Hifumi-sama, I want to be included in the seal, is what I’m saying.” (Origa) Imeraria felt dizziness befalling her. In the castle of Swordland it has turned into a dispute over who should become the successor of the several children of the king. At one part it went even as far as turning into a bloodshed between fellow nobles. King Buell, who had a perfectly healthy body, hasn’t left something close to a testament behind at all. It’s not like he particularly cherished one of his wives. Mostly venting out on beastmen partners, he had a style of neglecting to the degree that he even rarely called out to the princes. Since it wasn’t like any of the princes was especially outstanding in military prowess, it naturally turned into a factional dispute between fellow nobles, who backed one of them. Even within the castle there are days where you can see blood. With a part of the wealthy also moving to the slums in fear of being mixed up in the chaos, it appeared that putting the humans’ system in order would still take quite a while. “How foolish.” (Hifumi) “It would have been better, if I had beat up the entire castle altogether, if it was to turn into something like this”, Hifumi, who heard the rumours about the area, where the humans live, sighed. I believed they would progress faster into an aggressive stance towards hostile powers, if I advanced the story in a more drastic manner since it’s an absolute monarchy, but they disappointed me more than I expected. In the first place, because there’s an extension in preparing the slums’ defensive stance to that extent, they might be able to properly oppose the balance as war potential. While it has taken the anticipated shape, Hifumi regretted it a bit. “It’s no good to leave things to others. It will be inevitable to pile up stress.” (Hifumi) “Ara, master.” It was a rabbitwoman, who called out to Hifumi, who returned to the slums while grumbling. Being one of the slaves, Hifumi had bought in one go, it’s the person, who was sitting together with Reni and Helen while they were studying in the dining room. “Is your condition bad in some way?” “Ah, you, eh? It’s unnecessary to call me master. You guys are already free.” (Hifumi) “Well, then it’s my freedom to call you master.” As she was retorting without hesitation, Hifumi returned “Do as you wish.” “On that subject, do you know of the forest, where the elves live?” (Hifumi) “Yes, I was told to not get too close to it, even in the settlement, I lived at before.” Hifumi tilted his head to the side due to the rabbitwoman’s answer. “To not get close? Is there antagonism between elves and beastmen?” (Hifumi) “Rather than calling it antagonism, how to say it...? The elves don’t leave the forest, but in exchange they don’t allow people to enter the forest. They will come attacking without caring whether it’s humans or beastmen.” While she talks with a troubled face saying “Though I’m not able to explain it properly,” her sole long ear is jolting with a *ping ping* “Anyway, since it looks like they aren’t mingling with other races or such at all, I’m not too sure on the details. Although I’ve been told that the demon race’s dwelling is deeper into the forest, I’ve heard that some demons occasionally come out and fight against the humans’ country or kill beastmen, however...” “Hmm...” (Hifumi) If I remember correctly, even Zebul of the demon race, who pretended to be a knight, said something quite provocative , he recalled. “It’s pointless to stay in Swordland at this rate... alright. Although I believed it to happen sooner or later, let’s head out right away.” (Hifumi) “Where do you plan to go?” “I’m going to check out the elves and demons for a bit.” (Hifumi) Passing an excessive amount of money to the rabbitwoman and entrusting the horse to her since he will leave for a while, Hifumi left Swordland walking as if he is going to hit a store in the neighbourhood. The rabbitwoman, who was left behind, felt close to fainting while watching Hifumi’s back, which grew more and more distant, wondering how she should explain it to everyone.

“Civil official instructional education... you say?” (Representative) In the room arranged for the purpose of training and meetings for the civil official slaves at the mansion of the Lord of Fokalore, the representatives of the cities, that had changed allegiance from Vichy to Orsongrande, gathered. In front of their eyes the civil official slave Caim, with a sullen looking face, was continuing to explain indifferently. Next to him Brokra sat acting as a clerk. “That’s right. The territorial principal Earl Tohno has said to gather from each city a selected few in order for them to receive the same education we received. They will be taught in general subjects and practical application. Ah, all of you gentlemen, the town mayors, who are participating at today’s assembly, please organize a gathering at each respective city after this and together with the civil official candidates, that will be elected, you will receive the same education alongside.” (Caim) As they were summoned by a new influential person, the city representatives were scared within their mind whether their life would be in danger. They were relieved to hear that their own position would be preserved to a certain extent. But, with the continuing words of Caim, whose facial expression didn’t change, that sense of security was blown away. “By the way, if your grades are bad, you will be removed from your post without any useless discussions. Since we have prepared something like replacements of your posts in case you are lacking the ability for your duty, I’d like you to give me your acknowledgement in advance, please.” (Caim) There is a considerable number amongst the representatives, who took over the post of representative by mere succession. Of course there are also some who managed their assignment properly, but likewise there are those who rested on their laurels coming with the status. Seemingly having an idea, there were several amongst them drenched in sweat turning pale. “Please stay in Fokalore for the duration of one month. You can be relieved because the representative proxies will dispatch personnel and soldiers for field work as well as recruitment during your time in Fokalore. We have prepared appropriate accommodations for you on our side. Please hand in an application beforehand, if you wish to stay in an inn of your choice. We will distribute the blank application form later.” (Caim) While reading the written down notes, Caim spoke in a smooth and clear voice. “Are there any inquiries up until this point?” (Caim) “I wanted to take it home and examine it temporarily, but...” (Representative) A single person, who became pale earlier during the talk about the grading, nervously made such proposal. Hearing that question, Caim looks directly into they eyes of that man expressionlessly. (Ah, this is bad.) Brokra saw the occasions when Caim’s habit came out. “Ano...” (Representative) As the man says uncomfortably due to Caim’s motionless staring, Caim opened his mouth. from your feudal lord, who is also your Lord and my master. If you take it home, what will you examine there? Will you abide or reject it? In other words, you and your city have no other choice but to swear absolute allegiance towards not only Orsongrande but also Earl Tohno.” (Caim) “I will fully convey this matter to Hifumi-sama. Although I don’t know in what kind of manner that gentleman will confirm your loyalty... I am well aware that if it was his words, you should be resolved for your city’s scale to decrease by around half.” (Caim) As he is speaking of the details monotonously and boringly, not only the man he is looking at, but even the representatives in the surrounding are trembling in fear. “Yo-You’ve misunderstood me! Please forgive my humble self!” (Representative) “Misunderstanding, it is? I will use my privilege of properly record that you have no more than this level of situation perception ability. Naturally, it will be treated as primary factor for the minus points for the over-all judgement. And also, please do understand that from now on all of your interactions and actions hereafter will definitely be transmitted to us and we will pay attention to them.” (Caim) Brokra threw a fleeting glance at Caim giving a profound proclamation while the man is bowing, almost about to rub his head on the floor. He knew this was also going to be his record. “Everyone, I hope that you very carefully choose the words you use as well. Our intention is to have honest and open-minded interactions, but you won’t be forgiven if you decide to antagonize us. You are not permitted to obstruct the administration of the territory. And, although the new Lord you have chosen is very tolerant towards loyal subordinates, he is absolutely unforgiving towards his opponents. Please bear in mind that a single word can cause you to lose your life, and that is no exaggeration either.” (Caim) There wasn’t a single person opening their mouth when Caim asked “Are there any other questions to be addressed?” . He waited for Deumus, who went to kill Imeraria, in his personal office within the castle. Vice-Captain Rangul “So late...” (Ribezal) It is only the assassination of a single girl who lives in a room inside the same castle. Even if Deumus had some reluctance and hesitation, the time, by when he should have finished it, had passed a long time ago. What worries him even more is that the chamberlain couldn’t find the figure of the queen in her room when he went there. Even though they are currently searching for her, they haven’t found her yet. “Maybe some kind problem is occurring?” (Rangul) Although around ten knights of the First Knight Unit are assigned for duty next, it will be fine for half of them going to check, I guess. “Possibly. Take some people and go have a look.” (Ribezal) Just when Rangul wanted to try to do something in reply, there is the sound of knocking. “Did he come?” (Ribezal) However, even as they are waiting, the door isn’t opening. “What’s the matter?” (Rangul) Approaching the door, in the moment Rangul’s hand grabbed the knob, a blade penetrated the wooden door. It pierced Rangul’s head. Extracting the blade, a *byu*, indistinguishable whether voice or sound, could be heard. Rangul, trying to cling to the door, collapsed. And then, Hifumi entered by destroying the door with a kick sending the door and the corpse of Rangul flying. “It’s you, bastard... !” (Ribezal) Ribezal is recognizing Hifumi’s face. He happened to be present during the audience when the king was killed. “Although I came to see since I was certain there was a presence here, what room is this?” (Hifumi) Surveying the room, Hifumi heedlessly asked. “This is my, the First Knight Unit’s captain’s, room. Why are you here, bastard?” (Ribezal) Holding a spear, he vigilantly sets up his stance facing Hifumi. “It is a major cleanup. Things don’t progress too well, if there is too much noise.” (Hifumi) “Don’t think it will be that easy!” (Ribezal) Following Ribezal’s roar, two magicians jumped out from their hiding. With the same timing they shot a fireball. “Oh, it is the first time I have seen fire users!” (Hifumi) While saying those words in delight, Hifumi advanced forward and let the fireballs fly by. Ribezal’s spear is thrust out at that place. “Nuu!” (Ribezal) “It’s a nice thrust.” (Hifumi) The spearhead grazed Hifumi’s shoulder and ripped up his dougi, but it hadn’t reached his body. In correspondence, the katana was calmly swung horizontally as well. Ribezal swiftly drew back and the katana only cut air. Ignoring another spear thrust, Hifumi leaped and chopped down one of the magicians. “Don’t play with fire indoors. That’s thoughtless.” (Hifumi) The magician, cut with a single stroke from the top of his shoulders, has died instantly. As the other let loose a second fireball, Hifumi, turning around, cut the fireball in two. “Oh, I took a chance and tested it and see there, I can slice it apart after all.” (Hifumi) While wondering somewhat whether you can still call this a katana any more, he stabs the heart of the frightened magician. The moment he brings down the blade sideways, avoiding getting it stuck in a bone, the spear approaches from the flank with an ideal timing. “Uuh-oh” (Hifumi) While feeling reluctant to respond to the thrust, Hifumi fell over parting with the katana in his hand. Furthermore, as Hifumi is tumbling on the rolling over again and again, Ribezal assaults him with the spear. Hifumi, who quickly rose to a crouch on his knee, grabbed the spear and drove its pummel into the abdomen of Ribezal in reverse. “Gufuu!” (Ribezal) Letting go of his spear, Ribezal collapses. When he rises quickly to his feet in spite of coughing violently, Hifumi is wielding his spear in front of his eyes. “It is a nice spear. The balance is great and its weight is just right as well.” (Hifumi) Having his personal spear thrust at him, Ribezal backs off. “Do you kill unarmed opponents?” (Ribezal) “What are you saying?” (Hifumi) Just as Hifumi spoke in astonishment, several knights rushed into the room. “The noise from just now!” (Knight A) “Are you safe, Captain?” (Knight B) Although the knights were taken aback the second they saw the Vice-Captain’s corpse and Hifumi holding the spear, they immediately set up and confronted Hifumi. You could say, as one would have predicted. “You bastard, what are you doing here?!” (Knight C) Without replying, after Hifumi spun the spear and determinedly knocked the jaw of Ribezal with the pummel making him fall over, he struck the leading knight’s eyes, throat and both feet, the four places with no armor, in a flash. Even as the knight died, gushing forth blood from his entire body, the surrounding knights didn’t understand what had happened. Moreover, Hifumi even ran the spearhead into the knight’s throat, standing cross-ways, and cut it open. “Why are you standing around doing nothing? Since you were taught you how to use a spear, get over here quickly.” (Hifumi) Losing their temper, the knights thrust their spears with all their strength. While skilfully averting the united spearheads, one after another is falling down spurting blood out. “There aren’t only thrusts in the spear art!!” (Hifumi) Closing in onto his opponent while repelling a single stab, Hifumi rams the pummel into his opponent’s foot as he pushes his shoulder toppling him over. Rotating the spear, Hifumi reaps through his neck. Moreover, as the next opponent attacks, Hifumi turns his spear, entangles the approaching weapon and disarms him. The opponent, being dumbfounded of having lost his weapon, died with a single lunge. Within the unfolding blood-stained tragedy, Ribezal, whose jaw had been struck, shook off the twinkling stars in front of his eyes by swinging his head while he advanced to a corner of the room on unsteady feet. As he presses his hand on one part of the wall, a hole, barely wide enough for a single person, opens. Ribezal crawled into it. Though he feels the presence of Ribezal escaping, Hifumi brushes away the all the spears held at the ready of the First Knight Unit’s reinforcements that had come from somewhere while deciding If he rallies his colleagues of the First Knight Unit that aren’t here during his escape, the result will be that it will be split into: the princess faction, centering on the Third Knight Unit, will take a defending stance with the castle as base, if the numbers of the First Knight Unit are few, or the prince faction, centering on the First and Second Knight Unit, will have to start by capturing the base, if the numbers of the First Knight Unit are many. If that’s how it turns out, they will make frantic efforts to fight with each other, I guess. “Well now, it’s time to finish the cleaning soon, right?” (Hifumi) As Hifumi motivated himself with a nice smile in a state of being soaked in the blood of his victims, the knights didn’t understand the reason and panicked. Parting with one-third of the First Knight Unit’s personnel this night, half of the remaining people surrendered and swore allegiance to the princess faction and the other half chased after Ribezal who left the capital behind. “With this, can’t you say that only the number of knights in the prince faction and the princess faction roughly balances out? If there aren’t many on the side attacking the castle, the balance will be bad.” (Hifumi) Hifumi leaked out his dissatisfaction as it became the next day. No one except Origa approved. Morning has come. The civil officials and nobles, who attended as they aren’t live-ins, were puzzled over the heavy mood within the castle. Confirming to which Knight Unit each knight belongs without making a single exception, stretchers were carried in from a separate entrance one by one and something was carried out. “Did something happen?” (Official) A single female civil official, commuting to work, visited a knight doing inspections. The greeted knight, with darkly shadowed eyes, replied blankly, “Just a little. They were killing each other during the night.” (Knight)magic “Eeh?!” (Official) “Ah, it’s safe already. Lord Tohno finished it all.” (Knight) “But, take care to not utter thoughtless things.” The knight warns her to pay attention since she could literally be beheaded. Raising a sudden shriek after seeing a stretcher covered with a cloth over there, she could see the head of a person tumbling down at that place. “A head...” (Official) The civil official, who had become ghastly pale, tried to think one way or another about the reason for the confrontation. Being worked to death with the after-disposal of the mayhem, the knights are stuck with doing overtime within the castle, that had a smell of blood drifting all over. “And, is Imeraria-sama safe?” (Official) “Of course, she has the Knight-sama with the slender sword at her side, she hasn’t a single scratch.” (Knight) While the civil official looks relieved and says “That’s good”, the knight added in his mind “At least not on her body.” Getting through the overnight tragedy, Imeraria completes the organisation of Orsongrande. The main part of the nobles also move from the prince faction to the princess faction. Many of the nobles rushed, pretending to do courtesy calls, to visit Imeraria for the sake of pledging their allegiance to her. Subduing the feeling of boredom, Imeraria handles the nobles coming to tell her that she can depend on them from now on. In her back Hifumi’s figure was visible brightly smiling in absolute satisfaction. After several meetings with the nobles ended, Hifumi told her that he will leave the castle soon. “The basic preparations have been completed. Do your best in forming your own future.” (Hifumi) “... Where are you off to this time?” (Imeraria) “I will go visit Vichy. After that... you will be the one deciding that, no? See ya.” (Hifumi) After seeing off Hifumi’s group, she entrusts her back to the deep chair and shuts her eyes. “It’s the real deal from here on out...” (Imeraria) During the consultation with the prime minister, we have decided to hold the enthronement in the near future. The consequence will be that the news will be circulated to my brother, I guess. I wanted to lay the foundation as new queen, as official successor, before Prince Ayperos returns to the capital. If I possess overwhelming authority, I will conversely be able to protect Ayperos, I hope “For that reason, I have to get strong myself first...” (Imeraria) Thinking of the people who had died, Imeraria persuaded herself to apologize after everything ends.

The news about the new invasion by the demons came not from one of the Fokalore patrols dispatched at the borders with Vichy and the Wastelands, but was brought in by Vichy’s refugees who managed to escape. At first it was considered to be outdated news due to refugees having been on the run all the time, especially as any mention of a demon invasion was also missing in the regular reports. “In other words, that means the demon army didn’t come from the Wastelands, but suddenly appeared inside Vichy.” (Caim) Caim, who checked the report drawn up by Paryuu, orally reported to Alyssa who is buried under a mountain of documents after having taken over the office formerly used by Hifumi. In short, what he wanted to tell her was to make a move immediately. “How many troops do they have?” (Alyssa) “Their scale is still unknown, but going by the number of refugees flowing in, it’s likely that they are steadily occupying cities opposite of the border touching with Orsongrande and Horant. Since it looks like the demons are also eliminating the rampaging soldiers of Pyursang, it became easier to deal with that side.” (Caim) Apparently there were refugees who witnessed the demons killing reinforced soldiers. The neatly summarized report was a splendid writing that had no places that required corrections by Caim and amply showed the abilities of Paryu. In addition, usually such documents, which appealed for an increased number of goods and personnel to be sent, had a lot darker emotions put into them, but in Paryu’s report something like that couldn’t be found at all, allowing for it to be passed around to staff members as material list without any changes. And as matter of fact, Caim reproduced it without a single adjustment or supplement, and handed it over to Alyssa. He considered it to be just the right document to practise how to read reports. “Since there’s an increase in the number of refugees, Paryu has requested goods and in addition personnel for defense duties. According to her estimation, there will probably be contact with the demons in less than days. I share the same opinion.” (Caim) It seemed that Vichy as group of city-states had already ceased to function. Loud requests for assistance started to flow in not from the central committee, but from the various cities close to Fokalore. But, in accordance with Hifumi’s order, they officially gave the reason “On top of instructing them to calmly watch the country, they should rely on the central committee first.” Alyssa adopted that stance as well. “What shall we do?” (Caim) Although Caim inquired expressionlessly and indifferently, one country on the other side of the border is being overrun by demons. Considering Fokalore, it was a danger affecting the existence of the territory. Given that Viine understood that as well, she trembled while looking at the report. “Increase the number of personnel... or rather, we will send the entire army. I will go as well. I will also take Pruflas-san and the other dwarves along. Prepare a shuttle service with rail cars since we will use all those who are useful for the construction of a defense base.” (Alyssa) Once she returned the document to Caim, who was swiftly noting down her instructions, Alyssa continued, this territory and noble title. Someday the time will come when Hifumi will come back, and then I will be scolded if the territory has shrunk or if I lost to someone.” (Alyssa) And then she asked Viine to come with her as well. “Can you keep me company for just a bit longer? I’d like you to tell Hifumi that I’m doing my best when you go to him.” (Alyssa) “Understood.” (Viine) In her heart she was scared, but Viine willingly accepted Alyssa’s request. It had been decided that Viine would be stationed at an official position that allows her to travel between Hifumi and the territory once she finished the basic education. She felt it to be natural for her to accompany Alyssa for the sake of playing that role. “Caim-san, how long until we can depart?” (Alyssa) “The preparation of goods is already making progress. Probably it will be possible for the first group to depart tomorrow morning. Since the rail cars and railroad tracks are ready, they will be able to arrive there in a day.” (Caim) The next day Caim and Brokra stayed behind in Fokalore as representatives of the feudal lord, and Alyssa headed towards the border city Rhone while being accompanied by Viine as assistant. On the third day of them setting up weaponry such as spear throwers and reinforcing the walls at high speed, unexpected visitors showed up. “Ah! Viine-san, it’s been a while!” (Reni) “Reni-san!? The others as well...!” (Viine) Going towards Viine, who rushed over after being called by the border guards, Reni and Gengu approached her while waving their hands. The elves such as Zanga were present behind them as well. “W-What’s wrong?” (Viine) “Yeah, we want to live here. That’s okay?” (Reni) Viine felt dizzy. She somehow managed to put strength into her knees while holding her head. “I-I don’t have the authority to decide that, so...” (Viine) “Sure~.” (Alyssa) The one who came running to the place right before crossing the border at a light pace was the feudal lord Alyssa. She was additionally wearing a red mantle upon Miyukare’s suggestion, who said that she’d like Alyssa to be dignified in front of the refugees, but with her running around causing the mantle to fly in the wind, it only looked as if a child was playing around. “A-Alyssa-sama...” (Viine) After Viine explained to the puzzled Reni about Alyssa, Reni bowed her head towards Alyssa. “Everybody wants to lead lives similar to humans. Please!” (Reni) “Then, for starters you will live in this city. Viine-san, please ask Paryu whether there are any free buildings or inns and guide them there. Also please register them in the census, too. And, I’d like to listen to everyone’s stories, so please treat me well at that time.” (Alyssa) Alyssa and Reni, who exchanged a firm handshake, smiled at each other faintly and separated. Viine ran to the temporary town hall to look for Paryu. Alyssa told her that she has another task and headed to the wall that was still under construction. “... Somehow it was decided all too easily. Although you said that she’s Hifumi’s successor...I’m sorry to say that, but will it be alright?” (Gengu) “Isn’t it fine?” (Reni) Reni immediately rejected Gengu’s concerns. “Maybe that child... ah, wrong, Lord-sama thought that it would be convenient for us elves and beastmen to be here? Various people are reinforcing the walls and preparing the weapons. There are also very many soldiers present. They are probably expecting the demons to attack.” (Reni) “So, why would be our existence be convenient to them then?” (Gengu) “I was taught by Hifumi that it’s the basics to make your opponents plans go haywire in a battle. The demons don’t know that we are in a human city... that’s likely what Lord-sama is thinking.” (Reni) “That means we are...” (Gengu) “I don’t think that they plan to use us as shields, but... as one of the traps, maybe? I think the commanders-on-site won’t know what they should do if they run into beastmen after coming here with the intention to fight against humans. At any rate, since there’s also the matter with Malfas, it’s possible that our movements have been leaked to the other side.” (Reni) Reni casually looked around and saw Viine running in her direction. “Either way, let’s have them protect us by showing them our usefulness. Hey, something smells nice. For starters I will take a break. I’m already exhausted.” (Reni) The people, who continued to walk until here, realized their own exhaustion due to Reni’s words and fell into a deep slumber after somehow arriving at the rooms prepared by Viine. ☺☻☺ “What are you saying. You, are you an idiot?” “Uhh...” After the meeting in regards how to deal with Hifumi, which also included Origa, Imeraria summoned Hifumi, who’s lodging in the castle, to her own room. She had given detailed instructions to everyone, including the maids, to not get close to her room, but didn’t notice that this act in itself had provoked Hifumi’s wariness. And when he confronted her about it, Imeraria told him that she wants his child. Once he concluded that she probably kept the servants away out of shyness that her love affair or whispered intimacies would be overheard, Hifumi lost all strength and fell back into the sofa. “Which reminds me, Origa sent a weird look my way. So it’s about this, huh?” (Hifumi) “Yeah, Origa-san is your wife, Hifumi-sama, I got her permission first...” (Origa) “I’m not a toy to be used by you guys. Being lent out feels unpleasant.” (Hifumi) Imeraria rushed over in a hurry to Hifumi, who got up, and grabbed the hem of his hakama. “P-Please wait! This isn’t really about something like sharing or competing.” (Imeraria) Certainly it’s inevitable for Hifumi to be angry about this. The words she was trying to voice out should attract Hifumi’s curiosity, although they were based on a thought that had appeared after her having considered the lowest possible ideas in circles. “... This is also a preparation to kill you.” (Imeraria) He was dragging Imeraria’s light body after him, but suddenly stopped upon hearing those words. “What do you mean by that?” (Hifumi) He turned around and looked down on Imeraria. Imeraria also firmly looked up directly into the eyes of Hifumi in order to not avert her eyes. She felt like his black pupils became even blacker in comparison to the time when she met him for the first time. “It means that you will be defeated by your own child. That’s why I’m telling you that I want your child.” (Imeraria) and I will keep talking before I regret it. “I hate you. You are detestable. My family summoned you and was killed by you because of that. My father, mother and younger brother might not have been good people by any means, but while that may be true, I’m not a person who can come to terms with it to the degree of considering it as fine for my family to be murdered...” (Imeraria) Imeraria made sure that Hifumi was simply looking at her without saying anything and took off her night-clothes. The thin cloth slips off with a faint rustling, exposing her still developing body. “I intend to do whatever I must if it allows me to get my vengeance. I will do anything, no matter how dangerous it might, if it enables me to kill you, even if that might be acts going against human nature.” (Imeraria)magic She slowly leaned in close while confirming that Hifumi wasn’t escaping. Suddenly she felt a sensation of floating. “Eh? Kyaaa!” (Imeraria) She was lifted up from both sides and tossed on top of the bed. Her slender body fell on its butt while assuming a posture of sitting at ease. Feeling somehow embarrassed, she pulled the thin bed sheet towards herself and covered her chest. During that time Hifumi returned to the sofa, sat down with a flump and drank his cold black tea. “If it’s only that, I won’t have any motivation to embrace your seedy-looking body. Saying that it’s for the sake of killing me is nice and all. Your thinking is difficult to understand as it’s too roundabout, but it’s not bad. Since I never killed my own family yet, I can’t understand your emotions either.” (Hifumi) “If a woman harbors a single desire, she won’t forget it until her death. A blockhead, who doesn’t understand the heart of women like you, Hifumi-sama, will definitely be unable to comprehend until their death.” (Imeraria) “It sure seems like I’m being called heartless here. I came to this world after being summoned by you. Because I was called here for a selfish reason, I passed my time by acting selfishly. Although you might resent or blame me for that, I don’t have any obligation to humor you in that. Or am I wrong?” (Hifumi) “No, you are not wrong. The one who threw your life out of order was me. The one who should bear that crime wasn’t father but me.” (Imeraria) Imeraria grabbed the knife placed near her pillow. “If I had the power, I could have put an end to all of it by stabbing you with this. Me dying through this might have been another conclusion, if you had lived peacefully in this world, before you spread the triggers of battle all over the world.” (Imeraria) She threw the knife away. The knife fell on the thick carpet between Imeraria and Hifumi without bouncing. “But, the option to finish it in such way has already disappeared. It’s necessary to have you exit the stage and moreover to obtain the power to subdue this world that was thrown into chaos by you.” (Imeraria) “So you’re saying that my child will become that power, huh...? I don’t understand. You are going to sleep with a man you don’t even like for that sake?” (Hifumi) “I like you. I have been in love with you. Since the time I took a look at you for the first time, I was always convinced that you are hero-sama. Though you pointed a weapon at me in the next instant.” (Imeraria) While giggling, Imeraria let her naked body fall on the bed. Hifumi stared at the nude queen in front of him suspiciously. “Just now you told me that you hate me, didn’t you?” (Hifumi) “Those two emotions can coexist. A woman’s heart is strange, whimsy and full of contradictions.” (Imeraria) Drawing slowly and quietly near, she suddenly picked up the knife again. Imeraria showed an instant of hesitation and then swung the knife downwards. The silver-shining blade didn’t touch Hifumi. Hifumi’s left hand grabbed her hand that was swung down with all her strength, and his right hand seized Imeraria’s neck. Imeraria, who lowered the knife, looked at Hifumi’s face that was approaching in front of her eyes as her neck was drawn towards him. She didn’t know what kind of face she was making. It might be one full of shame, one of anger or even a charming, sweet one. “What are you thinking?” (Hifumi) “I didn’t want to be left alone by myself. If I told you that, would you understand?” (Imeraria) “There’s no way I would, is there? You are certainly similar to Origa in some respects. Are you fine with that?” (Hifumi) “P-Please don’t say something so rude. Besides, bringing up the name of another woman in front of a woman is impolite.” (Imeraria) It was a conversation at a range where they could feel each others breaths. It’s suffocating, but not detestable. “Apart from it being my child, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it will become as strong as me.” (Hifumi) “Right now you can raise it and be in charge of its education, can’t you? Besides, I managed to prepare someone trustable who will teach it magic. If all goes well, it will likely become far stronger than you, Hifumi-sama.” (Imeraria) “Those guys, huh? You sure prepared things thoroughly.” (Hifumi) At the instant Hifumi spoke in astonishment, the the strength constricting her neck relaxed. Using that chance, Imeraria grabbed Hifumi’s head and pressed her lips on his. “Make love with me. The world you desire is ahead of that. And its demise is to be found there as well. I will shape that history.” (Imeraria) They eyes of Imeraria, who earnestly lined up word after word, felt to Hifumi as if they had already become that of a lunatic. At the same time he couldn’t deny that they overlapped with the eyes of his wife. “I really have bad luck with women, don’t I?” (Hifumi) Holding Imeraria, who was clinging to him while roughly breathing through her nose, he carried her to the bed. At the time when dawn broke, Hifumi wasn’t at Imeraria’s side anymore. While feeling a dull pain, she ended up releasing a weird scream due to the success of her strategy and her excitement out of embarrassment.

In the end, after the majority of the elves abandoned and left the forest, the remaining elves lost the ability to keep up the barrier. Those with a high amount of mana decided altogether to depart from the village at an early stage following Zanga. While watching the barrier growing gradually insubstantial, the remaining elves were in a situation of observing one another to check each other’s state. Proclaiming their pet theory that upholding the barrier is an act of justice, those, who approved of it with a passionate attitude, are unable to state 「I will also leave」 just by themselves. While gauging the timing when they should comply once someone starts to talk about it in their minds, they passed their days loosely. Even if the barrier vanished, the demons wouldn’t leave their own dwelling, would they? Won’t they choose to remain in their place as it’s peaceful location? However, that pipe dream didn’t last long. “Oy, that is...” At the place where the man who was collecting in the forest pointed was the direction of the demons’ settlement. Ahead, where the opened up path leads to, a gloomy place with forest trees on either side can be seen. “Those are... d-demons?” Someone, who came walking down the path, was faintly visible. With their walking pace being slow, the two elves lying in wait prepared to release their magic. “... Huh?” It didn’t take much time for the elves to notice that the one, whom they saw moving leisurely at the beginning, was close to being unable to walk and thus only moved slowly. There was no mistake that the one who turned up was a male demon with a grey skin, but his condition could only be described as a misery. With his left eye crushed, blood flows down his cheek similar to tears and he drags along his right leg which has a large wound on it. His flanks are soaked with blood as well and while sweating profoundly on his forehead, he desperately takes one step after the other. The demon with his whole body covered in wounds finally noticed the elves. He held out his right hand as if grabbing for something. “H-Help...” With not only his right eye being opened widely, but also his left eye, which was crushed missing even a visible shadow, the elves didn’t see him as anything but a strange monster and not a demon. Although they heard his word, they hadn’t the composure to think about its meaning. “The human is...” “He seems weakened! Let’s get rid of him right away!” The demon’s muttering was drowned out by the voice of the agitated elf. Both elves cast wind and earth spells each. As the demon, who was barely able to walk, shouldn’t have any leeway to avoid those, his body was cut up by the wind blades and his whole body was hit by pellets. The demon, who was turned into an old rag, rolled back being blown away and stopped moving just like that. “We did it...” “But, why was he covered in so many wounds?” “Rather than such a thing, we have to inform everybody! At last the barrier vanished! Since it seems that the demons are weaker than we thought, we might be able to hold out somehow if we face them together!” One of them is inclining his head to the side, but the other one appears to be excited by having killed an enemy. He ran off towards the village. “Ah, oy!” Although the one who was left behind tried to call out to him, his friend was already too far away. “... Something like the demons being weak, could it be such too convenient state of affairs?” And something was the reason for the demon to be injured this much. He eagerly wrecked his brain over it, but the corpse in front of him couldn’t provide the answer he was looking for. ☺☻☺ The one who created the origin by stirring up a chaos in the city of demons were visitors in the dead of the night. There was a single building close to the business district where Hifumi lodged at in the demon’s city. With almost no people coming and going, it’s nothing but an inn. As if having an inn in the outskirts, it’s a lodging used by some demons with high social standing in case work got late or such. It’s not a private but a state facility. Having filled his stomach, Hifumi lied down on the bed after he had simply wiped his body. “... They are unexpectedly fast.” (Hifumi) In the dead of the night when everyone was asleep Hifumi abruptly opened his eyes and muttered this. Hifumi sensed an intent to kill as if tingling on his skin approaching himself. While pulling the katana to his side, he slightly breathes out with a “Fuu~.” “I wondered whether I could use that woman, but this was out of my expectations.” (Hifumi) Showing a wry smile, he sits up. The presences of two people are on the other side of the door. However, there’s no sign of them charging in. Hifumi, who patiently watches the door, sat on the bed while wearing the katana at his waist. The enemy is likely checking the situation inside the room. “Step aside!” Hearing a voice Hifumi recognised, the door flew open. Since the door, which was split right in halves, came flying towards him, Hifumi evaded it by rolling off the bed. “Hifumi, are you alright!?” (Vepar) The one who called out to him from the opened, or rather vanished door was Vepar whose light blue hair was dripping with sweat and slightly disordered. “Is your invocation of magic fast? I mostly know the invocation if it’s the magic from other folks, but I didn’t actually realize that your magic goes as far as blowing away a door, Vepar.” (Hifumi) “That’s because of my special trait, but this isn’t a situation to have such carefree chat.” (Vepar) Vepar, who grabbed Hifumi’s arm with an astonished face, left towards the hallway as is. The pathway has become flooded with water. Two demons have lost their consciousness after getting hit by a wall of water. “You haven’t killed them?” (Hifumi) “... Forgive me. Even with this I’m crossing quite the risky bridge here.” (Vepar) Vepar, who is running through the dark hallway, had a bitter expression. “As I will explain later, follow me for now.” (Vepar) Vepar’s subordinates seem to be waiting at the edge of the city. “It looks like the king intends to create an opportunity for the demons to go on a foreign campaign by treating you as advance detachment sent by the humans.” (Vepar) “Well, I think that’s a good idea. It’s not like the hostile opinion towards humans became weak, right? That being the case, this would likely be plenty to stimulate such situation.” (Hifumi) “You know... aren’t you aware that he is aiming for your life here?” (Vepar) “As of yet, no.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who runs while his hakama waves, stroke the mouth of the sheath gently with his fingers. “It’s still not a battle that makes me tingling all over. Even though he is aiming for my life, there still hasn’t come anyone to wager their life. Aiming for my life with such an attitude, that’s a joke.” (Hifumi) Vepar wasn’t able to say anything else to Hifumi, who leaked such complaints instead, anymore. By chance, would it have been fine even if I didn’t rescue him? Such thought was swirling in her head, but it’s not like she wouldn’t go if that was the case. “With having you killed, the demons certainly will join hands and set out to fight with the humans. However, you can’t say that this will be a battle necessary for us demons to survive. Going as far as expressly digging up hatred that has almost disappeared, in my humble opinion that’s exposure of many of my brethren to danger.” (Vepar) The place they finally arrived at was one of the entrances of the city. In front of the gate around female demons waited. “Captain, this way.” (Bennia) The one guiding Vepar by raising her hands is Bennia. “Bennia, how’s the situation?” (Vepar) “There are no problems. Just as planned.” (Bennia) “Planned?” (Vepar) Vepar was puzzled.magic The movement this time was hurried. With Vepar having only moved the subordinates she could call out to, it’s unrelated to such words as planned or scheduled, it’s something unforeseen. “Yes, just as planned. For you to move in order to protect the human is just as it was expected by the king and Phegor-sama, Captain.” (Bennia) “Bennia!?” (Vepar) Vepar, who tried to interrogate her, was suddenly hit hard by a fist which came flying from her side and rolled on the ground while raising a cloud of dust. “Good grief, for you to support the likes of a human. I don’t like that Phegor fellow, but I won’t approve such bad smelling acts.” (Beleth) Beleth, who looked down on Vepar, says while swinging his tightly grasped fist. It wasn’t like Vepar lost consciousness, but she wasn’t able to stand up as she had a cerebral concussion. “B-Beleth, why are you here...?” (Vepar) “You still don’t get it?” (Bennia) The one who returned an answer was Bennia. “Captain, you were chosen as victim who was killed by the human. Since you will be able to become the cornerstone to unify the demons, it will be a honour.” (Bennia) “You have always thought about the people who don’t have any fighting strength, Captain, therefore even they will fight for your revenge”, Bennia declared with a serious look. “Well, it will be us who kill you, Vepar, and the human though.” (Beleth) Beleth, who drew his large sword, turned towards Hifumi. Having listened to their talk, Hifumi is smiling all over his face. “... What are you smiling for?” (Bennia) Due to Bennia saying “this is the scene where you should beg for your life”, Hifumi returned “Foolish talk.” “The situation is the best I could ask for. The demons are relatively powerful, thus I was thinking that I should adjust you in some respects.” (Hifumi) “Adjust, you say?” (Beleth) “Want me to rephrase it? It’s thinning out.” (Hifumi) Due to Hifumi stating that frivolously without even drawing his katana, Beleth lost his cool in an instant. “You will thin me out, you say!?” (Beleth) “Oh, you got it properly. Let me praise you for that.” (Hifumi) Hifumi plays with a silver coin he took out from his pocket. Though the coin drew a parabola, it hit Beleth’s trained chest. “I will kill you!” (Beleth) The large sword, which was brandished heartily to cut open his waist, hit air without touching Hifumi. The kick of Hifumi who jumped up caught Beleth’s face. Beleth, who shook and swayed only a small bit, braced his legs and hit with his sword. “Gaaaa!” “You are a sturdy fellow.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who smoothly jumped into Belth’s back, still hasn’t drawn the katana. “I have seen your battle. You are strong.” (Hifumi) “Of course! I’m here for the demons to become the winners. There’s no need to be acknowledged by someone like a human.” (Beleth) Drawing back his foot, Beleth threw his large sword with all his strength. In order to evade the large sword which came flying while rotating in circles, Hifumi largely leaps to the side. Beleth’s fist, which swooped down there, hit Hifumi’s cheek. Just like Vepar, Hifumi’s body flies away. However, Hifumi made one revolution on the ground and stood up calmly. Spitting out saliva with blood mixed in, Hifumi twisted his neck jerkily. “... What did you do?” (Beleth) “I was simply sent flying while taking your fist directly to the face.” (Hifumi) Ignoring Hifumi’s mumbling “The reason for it to become like a whip is because the body stiffens” to explain the structure of the body and its mechanics, Beleth and Bennia were dumbfounded. “Well then, I guess the lecture is done around this point. You won’t use it anymore anyway.” (Hifumi) He drew the katana. The instant Hifumi raised his voice, Beleth put himself on guard. However, what Hifumi attacked with wasn’t a throw of the katana but the throw of a stone he took out from his pocket. “Aah!?” One of the female demons encircling him in the surroundings screamed. “W-What have you done...?” “I only hit her with a small piece of metal. She tried to use magic after all.” (Hifumi) Due to those words, Bennia and the female demon unit step back. “I pay attention to the surroundings in front of me. I have that leeway.” (Hifumi) Beleth, who grasped his fist to the degree of blood seeping through, faces him with a stiff smile. “At least make me loose that leeway. Come attacking desperately.” (Hifumi) Without even returning any words towards that provocation anymore, Beleth unleashes a series of fist swings. While it seems for others that he is hitting the katana, Hifumi warded them off and fell back in a circle. “Can’t you get close at this speed!?” (Beleth) The fists of Beleth, who increases the number of hits even more, reached the point of grazing Hifumi’s sides and shoulders. They should be hitting the katana’s blade, but it’s at a level that Beleth’s muscles are injured only lightly. “You are a truly sturdy fellow.” (Hifumi) “You won’t be able to pierce through my muscles with such thin sword!” (Beleth) , Beleth, who is convinced of that, stepped forward powerfully to raise the speed even more. Hifumi, who placed his left hand on the backside of Beleth’s knee in order to catch him, drew the knee towards himself alongside a yell of 「Heave-ho」 in order to boost his spirit. “Uo!?” (Beleth) With a wobble, Beleth loses his balance and his left fist hits air. In that moment the katana’s point was thrust from the defenceless side and pierced into the side of the neck. “If the muscles are no good, it’s only natural to aim for places where there are no muscles... oops, he died, huh?” (Hifumi) The body of Beleth, who collapses, sank into the pool of blood he had created himself while having his eyes open widely in surprise. “Such a...” “Beleth-san is...” It seems that Beleth’s strength was something they put in that much of trust. The female demons can’t hide their surprise. “... ku!” Among them only Bennia began to move calmly. Understanding that she would have no chance to win in a direct confrontation, she inhaled her breath with all her might. Noticing something, Vepar shouted. “Close your ears!” (Vepar) Immediately following, Bennia, who opened her mouth to a degree mismatching for her small face, triggered a scream accompanied by a vibration which hasn’t any sound wave or voice attached to it. All the people in the surroundings have covered their ears. Some among those who closed the ears are in agony and there are also people who have fainted after shedding blood from their ears. “This was intense...” Hifumi, who discarded the katana and plugged his index fingers into the ears, leaks. Although he avoided a direct hit, his vision is distorted due to the vibration as it looks like his brain has been affected. “Die!” Hifumi didn’t hear that voice well, but he saw Bennia rushing over and aiming her sharp claws at his throat. Getting annoyed with the shaky field of vision, Hifumi closed his eyes and took a step forward by himself. “Eh?” Due to him closing the distance unexpectedly, Bennia is unable to cope with it. Getting hit with Hifumi’s head-butt on her forehead as is, her knees trembled. The body of Bennia which somehow doesn’t collapse was vigorously thrust away by a front kick of Hifumi. After that he pierces her to the ground with the large sword which was thrown by Beleth. As the dull blade bites into the bones of her waist, Bennia, whose body was folded in half, spurt out blood and groans from her mouth at the same time and died. “Ah~... It’s troublesome if it’s sound. There’s no way to defend against it completely.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who shook his neck, picked up the katana. “Well then, I have to clean up the rest.” (Hifumi) Listening to the words muttered by Hifumi while he was confirming whether there’s a chip in his katana’s blade, though he knows there won’t be any, all of the women in the surroundings were frozen stiff and unable to move while being drenched in cold sweat.

“Ahaha! How about it? You were surprised, right?” (Agathion) Agathion swings the left arm which previously vanished up to the elbow. The torn and tattered cross-section has a rough feeling similar to the white sand wall at the neck. Hifumi even saw the left forearm bursting open, but he didn’t understand the theory behind it. While protecting his throat and face by placing both arms in front at the moment he was repelled, he went flying to the back. However, the damage he received was serious. “Magic, huh...?” (Hifumi) “Yes, that’s right. It’s beyond the imagination of the human you. How was the explosion of pure mana? I wonder how it feels to have both arms broken and in tatters?” (Agathion) As Agathion says with sneer mixed within, both arms of Hifumi are bloodstained from the tips up to the elbows. The sleeves of the dougi have become short as if they had been forcibly torn off. The exterior of the forearms, which he had put in front of him to protect himself, has the skin ripped up even though the bones themselves are fine. With the muscles having snapped, he can’t move the arms up to the elbows. “It’s the first time. For me to get done in this far.” (Hifumi) “Oh, you are unexpectedly calm about it. I believed you would cry about it a lot more though.” (Agathion) “How regrettable”, Agathion shook his head. While repairing the gouged out throat, the left arm begins to grow little by little as well. It’s only natural, but Hifumi’s state isn’t something that can be fixed spontaneously. The dripping blood doesn’t stop. “It looked like you were breathing though.” (Hifumi) “Am I?” (Agathion) “It’s fake though”, Agathion laughs. With an assembly of raw materials transformed into a substance of mana, he is just maintaining a fake human shape, but nevertheless he is reproducing breathing and palpitation. “Even if things may appear this way, I was a normal demon once before.” (Agathion) “Due to a magic failure caused by me manipulating my unique magic, my entire body ended up getting rearranged by that magic and transformed me into a substance, but you won’t understand anyway even if I explained”, Agathion talks about the further details. “Well, if you knew about me not being able to get killed in a normal way... let’s finish this, shall we?” (Agathion) Phegor will likely die any time now, too In that moment Hifumi once again fiercely ran up to Agathion as if not feeling any pain. “That’s no fun”, Agathion shoots pellet after pellet. Hifumi, who eluded those rocks by forcibly bending his body, held out a jet black blade from his right arm. “Ue!?” (Agathion) Agathion, who unintentionally made a shrill and nervous voice, had the regenerated left arm cut at the shoulder by the black blade while still not comprehending the state of affairs. “I wanted to test it out, but it seems to have gone smoothly.” (Hifumi) The true identity of the black blade was something changed into the shape of the darkness storage’s outlet simply created with darkness magic. It’s thin to a degree that one won’t be able to see it if looking from the side. And since it doesn’t penetrate living creatures it’s possible to use it as physical weapon if it works properly “Just right if it’s usable.” (Hifumi) While pressing on with a brute force approach, the strange sword attacks of Hifumi continue. Agathion tried to pin down the blade, which struck him diagonally from below upwards, but had his right forearm cleaved arbitrarily. Moreover Agathion evades the diagonally downward-swung slash of Hifumi by taking a half step back. “Oh?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who is heaving heavily while losing blood, noticed something odd. “Why is there are need to avoid? If it’s a body changed into a substance by mana anyway, there’s no problem even if it’s cut, right?” (Hifumi) “F-For some reason or another! I just got startled since you used strange magic!” (Agathion) Hifumi calmly observed the attacking pellets and cut them down. He has become used to the speed and trajectory of Agathion’s attacks. Stepping even further in, Hifumi points the blade at the torso and face after the limbs. It was at the time he slashed for the th time. “Uh-oh!” (Agathion) Agathion raised his voice and dodged the slashing attack by bending his body. Accordingly Hifumi’s movements come to a halt. “... What happened, human? Are you gradually hitting your limit?” (Agathion) Agathion ridicules Hifumi in order to provoke him, however Hifumi’s shoulders are trembling. “...?” (Agation) “Fukukuku... Hahahahaha!” (Hifumi) Although Agathion was puzzled, he once again placed around pellets in mid-air, but at that moment Hifumi burst into laughter. Suddenly ceasing his laughter, Hifumi stared at Agathion with a serious look. “From now on I’m going to kill you. If you can kill me before that, it will be your win.” (Hifumi) At the moment Agathion knitted his eyebrows asking “what are you saying this late in the game?”, Hifumi’s fierce attack began once again. However, unlike before, he is persistently wielding the blade while aiming at the chest. Agathion barely averts the the slashes and thrusts, which are approaching him many times over while aiming at his chest, by sacrificing his arms. While staying silent, Hifumi swings his right hand which had transformed into a blade. Within the long exchange of blows, Hifumi’s blade cleaved open Agathion’s chest in a straight horizontal line. However, Agathion showed a smile. “What bad luck. At least my chest was cut.” (Agathion) However, Hifumi doesn’t reply to that. Hifumi, who was struck by pellets hurled at him from the front as counter-attack, had the joints of both his shoulders broken and even his right hand blade vanished from the tip of his arm which dangled loosely. “See, it’s my win...” (Agathion) Hifumi, who doesn’t stop even then, pins down Agathion left foot by stepping on it and thrust his head into the armpit of the still remaining left arm. “Eh? What are...” (Agathion) Hifumi, who roared a war cry, raised his body and was able to forcibly throw up Agathion’s left arm. Originally it’s a move to stab a dagger into the part which has no armour by opening up the flank of the opponent with the body, but the aim this time is another. “Wh-Wha!?” (Agathion) The chest wound, Hifumi had caused before, opens up by force. In there something red with a diameter of around cm, just like a gem buried in sand, is pulsating. Agathion, who noticed that it had become exposed, spoke in a way of behaving as if he had the leeway even while becoming pale. “Oops! You got to see my heart, how embarrassing.” (Agathion) “I found it. This pulsation was what I was looking for. It’s also what you frantically protected.” (Hifumi) “Uguu... But, well, you likely can’t move both hands anymore. How regrettable.” (Agathion) “That’s not really a problem.” (Hifumi) Sweeping the foot he stepped on, Hifumi thrust his face into the chest of Agathion who toppled over while facing upwards. “N-No way... stop...” (Agathion) Ignoring the pleading, Hifumi opens his mouth widely and his teeth sink into the heart. “Aaaaaahhh...” (Agathion) Forgetting to use magic, he beats Hifumi’s shoulder and back with his left hand. However that doesn’t last for long either. Crunching on the hard surface and the soft inside, Hifumi’s front teeth bit into the heart mercilessly. Once he spit out the objects he held in his mouth, fragments smeared with a red fluid were thrown onto the ground. A syrupy and sticky red fluid spills our from the remaining heart and is absorbed by the surroundings which has taken the shape of sand. Agathion died while his eyes were wide open in terror. “... At last he shed blood, eh?” (Hifumi) Hifumi has also lost a considerable amount of blood. Losing strength in his knees, he sat down on the ground with a thump. “Ah, it was close.” (Hifumi) Even while sending the arms flying and gouging out the throat at the time he fought with Agathion, he didn’t have the actual feeling of stealing life. But now, with him having been basked in the fragrant liquid after biting into the pounding object, he finally obtained a sufficient amount of that sensation. “Yea. Stealing the lives of living creatures which can use words is a good feeling after all.” (Hifumi) He earnestly muttered within his dimming consciousness. ☺☻☺ “... Huh? Has he died, I wonder?” (Pheres) “Pheres, have a look.” (Njal) “No way. You go, Nyal.” (Pheres) With pebbles and sand spreading and a pile of debris rising in the centre, that, which ought to be a hall you could even call impressive, has lost its shadows. The ones peeking at the situation from the left and right side of the entrance are the two demon girls who magnificently barfed in front of the gate after following Vepar. In the hall itself, there is Phegor, who has fallen to his knees and is pitching forward as if about to fall while being pierced by the katana, and the figure of the king, who collapsed with a pale face and red blood shedding from his chest on a platform visible inside the hall. Next to him was the figure of the human who was sitting as if watching over the king. And, none of them even twitches. “Wouldn’t it be better to wait for Captain Vepar...?” “But, won’t she be even more upset if we didn’t save them although we could?” Vepar valued the two girls, who are able to use healing magic, highly. They are brought along at every opportunity for the sake of rescuing wounded people who appeared during battles and in accidents during practise. Bennia, who was the vice captain, summoned those two to the attack site because she feared there would be too much evidence left behind at the actual site if injured people emerged in a counter-attack, but Vepar truly thought that it would be the best if there are no wounded or casualties. As result of that, the two girls haven’t grown in regards to combat at all. Stating it bluntly, they were useless on scenes with no wounded and at the front-lines where there’s no time to heal. “... Let’s try to get close, just a bit?” “Got it.” They have been ordered to assist in bringing the chaos within the castle to a close by Vepar. Listening to people, who have watched the situation while hiding within the castle, they were ordered to heal the survivors’ injuries if necessary and to check the state of affairs in the hall where Hifumi was supposed to have headed. Pheres, who is only one year older, timidly approaches Phegor and Nyal follows behind her. Both of them are holding knives as an excuse of arms and are wearing capes with a flare skirt. However, they don’t really know how to use either. Grasping the knives tightly with both hands anyway, they walk forward while somewhat silencing their footsteps by standing on their tiptoes although they wear boots with heels. “Uwaaa...” Phegor, who has died while clinging to the katana within a puddle of dried blood, has his face hidden and his expression can’t be seen. “Phegor-sama isn’t in a state that he can be healed or such, is he?” As one would expect, no matter how good one is with healing magic, it’s impossible to resurrect the dead. “Hey, if it’s this sword...” (Njal) What Njal pointed at is Hifumi’s katana which has penetrated into Phegor’s body. “It’s the sword that human had, right?” (Pheres) What Pheres pointed at is the figure of Hifumi who is sitting down with his back turned towards them. “Yea. I saw it as well. At any rate, this is an amazing weapon...” At the time when Njal quietly extended her hand towards the katana, Phegor, who opened his bloodshot eyes widely, lifted his face which had lost all its blood. “You bastard are...” (Phegor) Did he hallucinate that Njal, who is standing in front of him, is Hifumi? Opening the hand which grabbed the guard of the sword, he stretched it out towards Njal. “Higyaaaa!” (Njal) In front of a situation similar to a dead having started to move, Njal raises her voice into a scream and Pheres isn’t able to move either as she has become stiff. However, repelling the stretched out hand of Phegor by kicking it from the side, it doesn’t reach Njal. “The barrier was finally broken, huh?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who was the one kicking, looked down on Phegor who feebly collapsed. “H-Human?” “You were alive...” Without listening to the girls, Hifumi grabbed the hilt of the katana which was stuck in Phegor’s chest and pulled it out in one go. Holding down the wound from the extraction of the katana, Phegor groaned deeply. “Well, it’s great that you survived. I’m able to finish you with my own hands after all.” (Hifumi) Hifumi swings down the katana, he had raised overhead with the force of pulling it out, with his right hand. As he had apparently already lost a lot of blood, not much of blood flowed even when the head was cut off. Phegor’s freshly severed head rolled up to the feet of Njal and she sat down while unable to stand up out of fear due to his extremely gruesome expression that gives one an impression of his feelings of resentment. Being hit by her knee when she did so, Phegor’s head rolled in the direction of the day after tomorrow. Once Njal raised her eyes, there was the figure of Hifumi who is cleaning the katana with a paper. At the moment Njal, who thought that she had been saved, tried to somehow muster her voice to thank him, the katana was thrust before her eyes. Remembering the katana, which had a beautiful lustre as if just having been washed, easily beheading Phegor before, Njal gulped down her spit while trembling. “So, you are the next opponent?” (Hifumi) She thought that she had been rescued, but it seems to be somehow different. it would have been alright even if we had simply ignored the dispatch order by Bennia.

After the guard unit on Horant’s side of the national border had been completely destroyed, the disposal of the corpses, which were scattered all over, was entrusted to the border guards of Orsongrande. The person responsible for the guards hesitated to cross the border without permission. “It’s alright since I’m giving you permission. Or rather, this is already territory of Orsongrande.” (Hifumi) Making him yield with a few words and furthermore placing the condition that it was fine to do as they like with the goods in the enemy’s lodging house and the personal properties of the corpses, the soldiers surged into Horant’s side of the border striving to be first. Murmuring how difficult it is to handle them, Hifumi goes ahead. Without haste and on the other hand without being slow either, Hifumi advances on the wagons they took along. The weather is clear as usual, but there are almost no figures of merchants and travelers coming and going on the highway. Occasionally seeing farmers working on the fields is something he can only see in a distant place. “There’s few people.” (Hifumi) “I heard a story that they aren’t able to freely move too much within the country because of the previous adventurers originating from Horant. Besides, the population is quite concentrated on the capital.” (Origa) Moreover, there seems to be quite a difference in treatment with the exception of magicians. They have adopted an extreme doctrine of magic supremacy. If you develop new spells or magic tools, depending on the opinion of royalty, you will be appointed to a responsible post. “Huuumph.” (Hifumi) Although they are maintaining the highway quite a bit, compared to Orsongrande and Vichy, there are many points, with weeds and stones, that are in a state of not being repaired. Proceeding on the highway until evening, they set up camp at a suitable spot. But no one happened to pass by until morning. They advanced once again along the highway after having taken a carefree and ample breakfast. Just before noon they could see a city. “It’s a city.” (Soldier) “What will you do?” (Origa) “Let’s buy food. It’s alright to kill the enemy soldiers if they come interfering.” (Hifumi) While lowering the speed of the wagons, they approached the city’s entrance with its gatekeepers standing guard. ☺☻☺ The information of Hifumi’s invasion hasn’t yet reached the royal castle of Horant. That person in charge of border security should likely dispatch someone to contact them originally, but he should have done that before getting killed. Therefore no one knew about the situation at the national border. The king expected Hifumi’s group and Orsongrande’s military forces to invade the frontier district, however the royal grandson, Veldore, hadn’t predicted that. For that reason, the order insisting on him preparing the defenses carried the meaning of “Behave yourself without doing anything unnecessary” for him. “Shit! About now I should be preparing the coronation, but... those savages from Orsongrande! Besides...” (Veldore) There wasn’t any need to put it into words, but his dissatisfaction with the king welled up from within his stomach up to his throat. During the long reign, my father, being the prince, died and my uncles, who tried to give up on the succession as well, are finishing their whole lives as high executives of the national politics. They never put it into words, but they were discontent with father. A sense of fatigue is seeping through the castle due to the too long time of no changes in the staff within the royal castle. Without even outstanding progress in magic engineering for the last years here, the king didn’t take any special measures either. Day by day his feeling that he would be more successful than the king is rising. Veldore, who returned to his office and personal laboratory, sat down in his chair and made a sound as he gulped down the sake he poured into his cup from a porcelain jar. A man came entering then after having knocked. With an age of about years, he has a mustache, which is carefully put in order and wears a seemingly pompous tail coat. “Veldore-sama.” (Yugu) “... Yugu, huh?” (Veldore) The man called Yugu poured sake into Veldore’s cup and prepared his own cup as well. Without even a single word of permission, Yugu does this as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Veldore doesn’t particularly say anything to that either. During the continuous years of associating with each other it had partly become a habit. “Did something happen with the king, I wonder?” (Yugu) “It’s of no concern... no, it’s simply my failure. Half of the soldiers, who used the new type of magic tool, were lost. The remaining were captured by Orsongrande.” (Veldore) Yugu, tasting a sip of sake, laughed with a complacent smile due to its aroma. “It’s an excellent sake. As expected of the royal grandson. No, it should be, as expected of the next king.” (Yugu) “Don’t make fun of me. Besides, this failure also means the postponement of the crown.” (Veldore) With a deep sigh he stares at the sake cup. As result of his feelings of frustration, he doesn’t even sense the taste of what he’s drinking. “Isn’t there a method to take the throne right away?” (Yugu) “What foolish thing are you saying... Never! That’s too much of a prank even as joke!” (Veldore) Yugu, who had Veldore’s glare pointed at him, shrugged his shoulders without being perturbed. “It’s no joke or such. There aren’t few people who are desiring for you to sit on the throne as soon as possible. It’s fine because it’s the majority of those working in the castle. If you felt like it, I could gather as many cooperators as you wish.” (Yugu) “But...” (Veldore) “Don’t say such weak things. What will you do if you can’t surpass an ordeal of such level in order to ascent to the rank of emperor.” (Yugu) Veldore was gradually drawn in by Yugu’s words of slow and simplified persuasion. Being reminded of the character of his grandfather who is the king, the voice of Yugu resounds even more in the ears of Veldore, who groaned being at his wit’s end. “Isn’t it a method to prove your competency once again if you steal the crown with force?” (Yugo) The discontent with the king, which was all jumbled together just a moment ago, is once again dominating Veldore’s mind. “... What’s the method?” (Veldore) Yugu laughed with a 「Magnificent resolution」 due to the question of Veldore, who raised his face. ☺☻☺ “Yeees! Liiiine up in order!” The former soldiers of Horant, who were once again gathered in the plaza of Münster, were given a good meal without suffering abuse. After having taken a rest at ease, all of them became very lively. Their mentality is still quite insecure, but even so they are encouraging each other by ascertaining their hopes of survival. And now, in front of them is an even younger looking girl than the one, who gave them a preaching the other day, standing. “I’m the military director of the Fokalore territorial army, Alyssa! Best regards!” (Alyssa) “M-Military director... ?” (Soldier) As someone let his feelings of disbelief show, the soldiers from Fokalore, lined up on both sides from Alyssa, glared at him. “Hey! Your Excellency, the director, is talking!” (Soldier) “I-I’m sorry.” “Well then, I will explain what you wil- shall do from now on!” (Alyssa) “At last the director is using polite language!” “Director, go for it!” Alyssa, confirming from time to time with a glance the memo in her hand while saying “Ummm,” gets earnestly cheered on by the soldiers in her neighborhood. The watching side can’t catch up with their comprehension. “I will have all of you go to Fokalore together with my troops. Because Hifumi-san has given his approval, we will prepare a place in the city where everyone can stay at. You can be relieved since even work will be mediated for you if you have an aspiration. Since I will command the troops going to Horant, I won’t be able to go with you, but it’s okay because I will properly contact the officials from Fokalore.” (Alyssa) “It’s regrettable that we can go together with director!” “Well, it’s only natural for newcomers!” The soldiers from Horant don’t know how they should react due to the high tension of the soldiers from Fokalore, but at any rate, they have barely understood that they will apparently head to Fokalore. The tension of the Fokalore territorial soldiers seems to be the usual. Alyssa eagerly explained the contents of her memo. Once they enter Fokalore, their name and age will be registered. They will enter an inn temporarily. After that, those people with aspirations will be educated and introduced to a workplace. The soldiers from Horant were baffled by the unfamiliar word they heard, education, but seeing Alyssa’s appearance, they are consulting among each other that it probably won’t be such bad treatment. “If there are people who want to enter the army of Fokalore, apply to one of the civil officials once you arrived at the city. Our Fokalore territorial army will welcome any of you!” (Alyssa) A cheer from the territorial soldiers resounds due to Alyssa finishing her explanation laughing with a smile. “Thank you for your effort, director!” “Beverage has been prepared!” “You are probably worn out. Please get on my back!” Alyssa, who gets down from the platform, is swarmed. Seeing several of the territorial soldiers expressing their appreciation and saying things they don’t quite understand, Horant’s soldiers decided to give only the entering of the territorial army a miss. “... What’s this?” (Sabnak) Sabnak, who saw the commotion by accident, mumbled while looking at the difference in enthusiasm between the two groups from far away. “Wait, the strange vehicle over there... what’s this? What kind of business do you have with this city?” (Guard) Seeing the approaching group of Hifumi, the two soldiers from Horant, seemingly the gatekeepers, grabbed their slender spears and asked for their identity. “This is a vehicle I built. It has no particular name. We are only stopping by to purchase food on our way to the capital.” (Hifumi) Without stopping, Hifumi answers their question while trying to enter the city quickly. The guards stopped them by projecting out their spears in a hurry. “Wa-Wait! We haven’t yet finished our questioning!” (Guard) “Stop! Show us a permission for you to travel within the country and something proving your social status!” (Guard) “Travel permit? There’s still something like that in this country?”`(Hifumi) “It seems so. The travelling within the country is probably being restricted.” (Origa) The two are carefreely chatting in the back guessing whether to pity the soldiers or whether confirming the coming and going is difficult. This mood of having no tension at all is an unusual occurrence in this country. “Don’t you have a permit? Certainly you are not deserting, are you!?” (Guard) Hifumi showed a coin, he took out from his pocket, due to the guards approaching even further with their spears.magic “Do you know what this is?” (Hifumi) Even as he asks, the guards don’t reply while only frowning. “You don’t seem to know. Is it only circulating within my country?” (Hifumi) “Well, then I will teach you,” Hifumi gathers their attention by rotating the coin with a flip. “It’s something signifying my rank as noble of Orsongrande. I’m an Earl of your enemy’s nation called Hifumi. That’s me.” (Hifumi) The guards, taken aback for an instant, seem to finally recognize the word called Orsongrande. One of them ran into the city in a hurry. “Calling for reinforcements, huh?” (Hifumi) What meaning did he pick up from Hifumi’s question? The remaining guard laughed scornfully. “It’s too late to even get cold feet now. How come you are calling yourself something like a noble of an enemy nation, even if it is a fraud? You will repent about this plenty in the jail.” (Guard) “Aren’t you misunderstanding something? If you are calling for reinforcements, call many of them. It would be boring if it ended right way.” (Hifumi) The guard, who was completely taken for a fool, approached with his spearhead in front of Hifumi’s eyes. “Shut up your lukewarm prattling! Even if you irresponsibly bluff...” (Guard) Suddenly Hifumi brings his face close without hesitation. When it seemed as if the spearhead is touching his left eye, the guard withdrew the spear reflexively. “You pulled back the spear.” (Hifumi) “U...” (Guard) “Bluffing or whatever, if you decide to do something, don’t stop in the middle of it.” (Hifumi) At the time the guard turned his sight away due to Hifumi’s gaze being fixed on him straightforwardly, around soldiers from Horant could be seen running over here. “T-They came! With this...” (Guard) In the moment he was relieved due to the arrival of the reinforcements, a katana protruded from within the guard’s chest. “If you avert your sight from the enemy in front, at least avoid this without looking.” (Hifumi) The guard complained with his eyes “What an unbelievable thing did you do” and then died as it is. “Wh... bastard!” (Guard) The complexion of the soldiers, who saw their companion getting killed in front of their eyes, changes and they come rushing. Storing away the katana while waiting for their arrival, he substitutes it with the kusarigama. “Origa and you lot, don’t make a move.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who looked at Origa’s group standing silently at a distance, suddenly begins to rotate the counterweights. “Well then, it seems that magicians are mixed in this time.” (Hifumi) In the rear of the group, the figures of three magicians, who seem to be late or have inferior stamina, in plain robes are approaching entering Hifumi’s sight. As if being too much of a wait, Hifumi steps into the city. One of the counterweights smashed the face of a man, who was the vanguard. Receiving damage up until his cervical vertebrae due to the impact, the man was forced into a somersault while scattering his teeth. The second counterweight twines itself around the neck of another man and Hifumi draws his prey to his place. Hifumi, who smiled at the enemy who came close, deeply cut the artery of the thigh with the sickle. With the place turning into a sea of blood just like that, the residents, who are close-by, realize the strangeness of the situation and run away while screaming. Hifumi, noticing some presence come flying at the place, where he decided to aim at the third person, quickly moved a part of his body aside. A rock of a size of around an armful passed by and fell in front of Origa’s group standing in the back. “Hifumi-sama! There is someone using earth magic! Please be careful!” (Origa) “Rather than earth magic, it is rock magic.” (Hifumi) Somehow it seems the three magicians use the same attribute. Another two rocks come flying. Did they believe in their victory? If you look at the magicians, their mouths, which peek out from under the hood, are smiling. “Well, there “is” such a way of doing things as well, I think?” (Hifumi) With these words the darkness storage expands in front of his eyes. The rocks are soundlessly and completely swallowed by the dark, expanded storage and then it closed itself as if there wasn’t anything to begin with. “Hmm. The user-friendliness is great.” (Hifumi) The enemy magicians are dumbfounded due to Hifumi’s lone consent. The soldiers stopped their feet as Hifumi cast magic without as much as a wand or dagger. “Oi oi, we aren’t done yet!” (Hifumi) As the launched counterweight howls, it once again delivers a hard blow to the temporal region of a soldier killing him in the process. Another soldier was beheaded by the sickle before he could return to the soldiers. “Te-temporary retreat! Stay in order!” The panicking soldiers are falling back temporarily and put the file and ranks of the group in order. Hifumi yawns while waiting for the soldiers to line up slowly. “Are you done? It’s fine if you use your head in combat, but practice moving slightly faster. If it were the soldiers from my place, they would be able to change formations without taking several seconds.” (Hifumi) Fokalore’s territorial soldiers are proudly nodding due to Hifumi’s words. “Get him!” Once someone among the soldiers shouted that, all of them came dashing simultaneously. And once again three rocks came flying from the rear. As Hifumi stored away the kusarigama and became unarmed, he smoothly passed through his opponents, who were stabbing their spears and swords at him side-by-side as if weaving through their gaps. Like that, he ends up standing in front of the soldier at the end of the line. “Eh?” (Soldier) The soldier wasn’t able to comprehend why the enemy was standing in front of him. Hifumi grabbed him under the arms on both sides as if holding a child. The back of the head of the soldier, who was lifted upwards with the momentum of running, was hit by the rocks that came flying. He gave off an unpleasant sound of crushing tinged with dampness. Hifumi, throwing away the corpse, rushes over to the magicians and turns them into rust on his katana successively. “I think it would be better if you thought a bit more about how to use your magic.” (Hifumi) Hifumi annihilated the magicians, but once he turned his look towards the surviving soldiers, they already hadn’t a single speck of fighting spirit left. However, without Hifumi intending to let a single one of them live, the result followed in accordance to that.

What Imeraria has seen from Orsongrande’s encampment, where she is currently staying, is a giant taking a detour from the border’s fortress and overtaking the soldiers. Alyssa’s group having their attention attracted by something that’s hanging from the roof of the fortress, she understood that they haven’t even noticed the giant. “Sabnak-san!” (Imeraria) “The spear throwers will volley fire at the giant! The cavalry will follow me! We will attract the giant’s attention by detouring from the right! Fokalore’s soldiers will circle around from the right and rescue her unit!” (Sabnak) Raising his voice, Sabnak jumped on his horse without even listening to the answer of Fokalore troops. Thanking Sabnak, who chose to become a decoy without hesitation, a platform wagon is swiftly dispatched by the soldiers of Fokalore. The moment the cavalry breaks into a gallop, Orsongrande’s soldiers fire the spears. With several spears piercing him, the giant, who has approached Alyssa who had fallen in a dire situation due to the beating, is beyond agony. Under the cover of the chaos, Imeraria jumps on a horse and heads towards Alyssa’s location together with the soldiers of Fokalore and not Sabnak. She heard the warning voices of her guards, but Imeraria can’t see anything but Alyssa being caught in a dilemma. A feeling of uneasiness is stirred up within her due to Alyssa, who was flicked off the horse, being approached by the giant again. “No! Everyone, get away!” (Alyssa) “Alyssa-san!” (Imeraria) Alyssa, who calls out to her colleagues even though having fallen off the horse, doesn’t notice Imeraria’s group approaching from behind. “Alyssa-san! Your hand!” (Imeraria) “... Eh?” (Alyssa) Alyssa turned around due to the yell. At that instant, spears are simultaneously fired by the soldiers of Fokalore who came to rescue her. The giant dropped the spear he was grasping. Even as the figure of Imeraria, who extended her hand towards her from atop a horse, came into her sight, she didn’t comprehend for some moments. “P-Princess-sama?” (Alyssa) “I’m a queen! Quick, your hand!” (Imeraria) Imeraria firmly grasped Alyssa’s right hand, which she held out as told while being dumbfounded, but different from a properly trained soldier, the other party hasn’t the arm strength to pull up an armed human even if it’s a girl. “Kyaa!” (Imeraria) Imeraria falls off the horse while grasping Alyssa’s hand Even during that time, the soldiers of Fokalore are collecting their colleagues on the platform wagon. “Now! Everyone get on the platform wagon! Director, you hurry as well!” Carrying the fainted Imeraria, Alyssa stepped firmly on her healthy left foot while dragging her right knee. On the other side of the giant, who is thrashing around after receiving further spears, the knights of Orsongrande, led by Sabnak, are confronting Horant’s soldiers. However, thanks to that no other enemy forces besides the giant are coming this way. At the moment the platform wagon came next to her, Alyssa, who entrusted Imeraria to a soldier first, stands up on one leg while bearing the pain and sits down next to Imeraria who was lain down. “Then... watch out!” As the soldier shouts, she looks ahead of his line of sight. While recklessly swinging his big arms, the rampaging giant approached the direction of Alyssa and the others. The giant, who turned into a hedgehog after being pierced by spears all over his body, hasn’t seen anything but is simply raging around. However, with each of his arm-swing, a human is sent flying. And, the large build, which advances two meters with one step, had already approached to a distance where he can look down on Alyssa. “Uuh!” Alyssa, who judged that there’s no time to escape, leaned forward to cover Imeraria’s slender body in order to at least her protect if not anyone else. Even while believing it to be pathetic, the name of the most reliable person rushed out from within her. She didn’t think about wanting to be saved. She merely felt regretful. Even while declaring that she will rescue her friends, she wasn’t in time and moreover the soldiers, who followed her, have also been violated by the enemy’s hands. Even her own life is about to be lost now. If there was something she could tell Hifumi, there was one thing she wanted to convey to him. “Excuse me, Hifumi-san!” (Alyssa) “That’s right. Reflect deeper than the ocean.” (Hifumi) She hears an earth tremor alongside a voice that shouldn’t be here. “By just bending the foot, which stepped forward, a bit like this, a human’s body will easily collapse.” (Hifumi) “I see, that’s educational, Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) Once Alyssa lifted her face, the one who has toppled sideways over there is the giant who is suffering due to being deeply pierced by spears. And in front of that giant was the figure of Hifumi who was carelessly giving a lecture to Origa. “The balance of humans, who are standing on two legs, is fundamentally bad. By just disturbing the centre of gravity between the two legs, they will easily fall over.” (Hifumi) “Hi-Hifumi-san!?” (Alyssa) “Shut up. Come back this way quickly. For the time being, this time your command and conduct is a failure. ... It’s the same for the idiot who has fainted in an easygoing manner over there.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who pointed at Imeraria, drew his katana and turned around to the giant. Standing next to him, Origa falls back merely three steps and stares at Hifumi. The rescue scene should have been deeply emotional, but Alyssa dropped her shoulders while on the verge of tears after being called a failure together in one lump with Imeraria. “A-Anyway, director, let’s withdraw to the encampment leaving this place to Lord-sama.” “Yea, please...” (Alyssa) The soldiers of Fokalore, including the wounded, leave towards the encampment while riding on the platform wagon. Seeing the situation, Sabnak’s group started retreating as well. “Hey, stand up. You are still alive, aren’t you?” (Hifumi) What’s audible through the roaring sounds from the platform wagon’s wheels is Hifumi coldly addressing the giant while kicking him flying. Finally the actual feeling of having been rescued, erupted within Alyssa. At the same time she has become depressed and is thinking back upon this time’s disgrace. “H-He got angry...” (Alyssa) As she wonders what kind of punishment is waiting for her, Alyssa’s body trembles more than at the time she confronted the giant. ☺☻☺ The one who started talking about “let’s send the elf and beastmen to the capital” was no one else but Caim. As for the reasons explained to the other civil officials, who were puzzled, by Caim; they don’t know when Hifumi, who’s the feudal lord, will return even if they stay in Fokalore as is. Not knowing how to handle the guests of unknown status, he is worried about the stress of the staff piling up. Because there’s no rule in Orsongrande itself how to treat elves and beastmen, who aren’t enemies, it’s a judgement that has to be made directly by the queen in the capital as fast as possible. The last argument couldn’t be interpreted as anything but sophistry, but the opinion of forcing the entire matter onto the lot of the capital was approved with everyone raising their hands. Moreover, to make doubly sure, “At the time it turns into a fight between the madam and that rabbit beastman, the damage reaching the territory is what we want to avoid, I believe.” (Caim) Saying that, Caim calmly voiced out the words everyone was afraid to mention. Once they make a decision, the movements of the staff members of Fokalore’s feudal lord mansion are quick. Caim put together a budget of this and that, the travel preparations were prepared by Brokra and Miyukare chose the escorting soldiers. The preparations were completed and they left on their travel two days later. Puuse’s group, who was in a carriage on the morning of the third day, can’t catch up with the excessive speed of development in their brains. “... Umm, where are we heading to, they said?” (Puuse) Once the rabbit beastman, Viine, dug up her faint memories due to Puuse’s question, the civil official, Paryu, who sat with them in the carriage, said 「That’s right」. “The “royal capital” is written as capital where the sovereign resides. It’s the centre of this country. The sovereign is also in that city. Even Hifumi-sama, who is our Lord-sama, is staying or has passed through that place.” (Paryu) “Are there also many people living like in Fokalore?” (Gengu) “The population there is at present higher than Fokalore.” (Paryu) Gengu looked at Paryu while roughly rustling the hair of Malfas, who had a complicated expression that is possibly caused by fright or curiosity and who opened his mouth with a “Whoa” due to the unimaginable number of humans. “You are saying, umm, sovereign-sama is more powerful than Hifumi-san?” (Gengu) Paryu was baffled due to Gengu admiring that with a “That’s amazin’.” “The current sovereign-sama is a woman who is at around the same age as me. I haven’t met her myself yet, but... there’s no way for her to be stronger than Lord-sama, probably.” (Paryu) “Hoo. That means, that female sovereign-sama is about having more wisdom than Hifumi-san ~yasu. So there exists such a person.” (Gengu) , Paryu thought, but since it became troublesome to correct each and every little thing, she let it stand as is. “Why did master-sama go to the capital?” (Viine) Paryu hesitated how far she should explain towards Viine’s question. Since she herself isn’t that well-informed about it either, she goes for a harmless and inoffensive explanation. “Since we were attacked by a neighbouring country, ((he went)) as reinforcement to a city at the border...” (Paryu) “Reinforcement?” (Puuse) The beastmen and Puuse exchange looks and are bewildered. “You are saying that, but for that Hifumi-san to go reinforcing someone, I can’t quite imagine that to happen.” (Gengu) “Yea, that sort of...” Paryu, who understood from Gengu’s words that Hifumi acted as usual even in the wastelands, decided to correct herself. “If you change the way of describing it, he went because there’s a battle is to be found.” (Paryu) “I see. That’s how it is.” (Puuse) Puuse nods and the other beastmen also have an expression of comprehension. “Umm, it’s odd to say that after departing, but is it fine for us to receive such good treatment?” For them, who travelled on foot with their prided leg strength as beastmen even on their journey through the wastelands, the vehicle called carriage was comfortable and pleasant. Even Puuse who is an elf has confidence in her leg strength as she walked through the forest. Although she cured her exhaustion with magic secretly, there’s nothing better than finishing it without having to walk. For Viine, her inner nature made her wonder whether being able to enjoy such comfort isn’t only for those of high social standing. “It’s alright. You are guests of Earl Hifumi Tohno who is our feudal lord. You don’t have to worry about anything as a matter of this level is only natural.” (Paryu) “Hifumi-san, he is an amazing person.” (Malfas) Paryu added in her heart (in various meanings) to Malfa’s honest praise and hid her cold sweat with a smile. “Anyway, it will still take several days until we reach the capital. Please spend your time at ease since you are probably worn-out from going through the wastelands.” (Paryu) “Thank you very much.” While harbouring the hope that she might be able to meet with Hifumi at last after thanking her, Viine stared at the stone paving of the highway flowing by backwards and recalled the face of her master within her mind. Hifumi pondered while looking at the spear-pierced feet approaching from the side. While slipping through a roundhouse kick by bending down, he stepped with all his might on the pivot legs thumb which is exposed by wearing sandals. The nail breaks and blood overflows, but the giant tramples down at him next without caring about it at all. “Hmm, is his sense of pain numbed after all?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who avoided being trampled by turning his body around completely, hit a spear, which is piercing through the top of the foot, with all his might from above. The spear, which penetrated the food with a dull sound, fixates the giant’s left foot by sticking into the ground. Ignoring even that, the giant raised his right foot. Facing the approaching, huge foot, Hifumi swings his katana while shifting his body to the right. The foot, which advanced, had all of its toes cut off and the giant collapsed with the momentum of trampling down. “One won’t be able to brace their legs if they don’t have toes, no matter whether they feel pain or not.” (Hifumi) Stabbing the katana from the giant’s ear until his medulla oblongata as is, he cleaves it open. Once the entire body convulsed with a short twitch, the giant stopped moving for eternity. “He’s only big, isn’t he.” (Hifumi) Once they turn their faces at Hifumi while he wipes the katana with a paper, the soldiers of Horant, who were surprised by the giant having been defeated, retreat to the other side of the border while dragging along the bodies of the soldiers who were done in by Sabnak’s and Alyssa’s units. Once he looked up, there were the corpses of Ma Carme and his unit swaying in the wind. “It seems the revenge by Alyssa to show you guys respect and affection will take a bit more time.” (Hifumi) “... Hifumi-sama, thank you for your hard work.” (Origa) Hifumi turned towards Origa, who came next to him, while sheathing the katana into its scabbard. On the other side of her small body, he saw the platform wagon coming around once again. “Let Ma Carme and the others down. It’s fine if they are put on the platform wagon.” (Hifumi) The shurikens, which were thrown by Origa, cut the ropes and the ten corpses fall to the ground. The platform wagon, which passed by at the side of Hifumi who is returning to the encampment, advances with rattling sounds in order to recover the corpses. “Well then.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who returned to the encampment, surveyed all present while tossing a small bottle of recovery medicine to Alyssa. Imeraria has regained her consciousness and is sitting with dropped shoulders while on the verge of crying. “Every one of you gave me trouble. Ah?” (Hifumi) Once Sabnak, who finished arranging the forces, finally arrives, Hifumi orders him to sit down as well.magic “There are things I want to say to you as well, Sabnak. For the time being, sit down.” (Hifumi) “Huh...? Ah, yes.” (Sabnak) Hifumi, who cleared his throat, took out a parchment from his pocket. “From now on it’s a meeting for reviewing based on how your battle appeared from behind.” (Hifumi) The scolding storm with the name “meeting for reviewing” continued until Hifumi felt hungry when it became noon.

Imeraria’s aim was hidden, even from Sabnak let alone Alyssa. Even in the decree given to Vaiya through Shibyura, there wasn’t anything written but merely to organize the troops and dispatch them as reinforcements as quickly as possible. That was unexpected. Although they weren’t informed about anything, there was no reason for the army’s upper military stratum around Sabnak to object if it’s for the sake of opposing the military forces of Horant. When Imeraria revealed to the opened war council after Alyssa came back, that she had ordered for reinforcements to be dispatched, Sabnak and Biron looked at each other’s faces, but because neither considered it to be a bad move, there wasn’t anything in particular to refute. “That’s all from me. Alyssa-san, I appreciate your efforts last night. I’m sorry for doing this at a time when you are tired, but may I ask for your report?” (Imeraria) Though Imeraria said it like that, it is evening already. Alyssa and the soldier from Fokalore, who returned after finishing the night attack had slept properly. “Yea. Um...” (Alyssa) Lowering her eyes to the documents gathered in her hands, Alyssa explains the details which she had read in the material recovered by her comrades. It was recorded that the giant soldiers are referred to as “reinforced soldiers” in the documents which were collected, and that there are apparently still several bodies remaining in a military installation in the capital city. She regarded the containment of the reinforced soldier with the casting net, implemented as countermeasure as satisfactory. Generally there isn’t anything special that might become a threat except the reinforced soldiers. The spear throwers, the reinforced soldiers and the thick layer of magicians, which is Horant’s original forte. Those three elements have to be dealt with. And with the number of magicians being low, it might be considered as very likely that some of them are concentrating on creating magic potions and adjusting the reinforced soldiers in the capital city. Everyone listened to Alyssa who was talking even while stuttering, silently and attentively. “For the time being, this is the extent we learned.” (Alyssa) “How is the situation on the other side of the national border currently?” (Sabnak) Alyssa starts off with 「It’s at the time of today morning」 towards Sabnak’s question. “Most of the buildings have been burnt down, one building is still okay and that’s where the soldiers and magicians are gathered as well. I think there aren’t more than of them either.” (Alyssa) “That means there’s also the option of suppressing them on the other side of the border for now.” (Biron) Imeraria listens to Biron’s words with her eyes closed. “If they lose their base, they won’t be able to move a large number of troops in a hurry. Since it’s probably necessary to prepare even if they are based in a nearby town, it will naturally become difficult for them to invade our side.” (Biron) “I see. If the other side has around people, it’s likely not that hard to occupy an enclosed position even with their current military forces.” (Sabnak) Sabnak agrees to Biron’s opinion. “Alyssa-san.” (Imeraria) “What is it?” (Alyssa) Having opened her eyes, Imeraria faces Alyssa. “It seems you haven’t seen Hifumi-sama, but where did he go?” (Imeraria) “I don’t know?” (Alyssa) An extremely simple answer is returned. “... Then, how about Origa-san?” (Imeraria) “Saying something like how about eating a cold and delicious menu or such, she apparently went to Münster this morning.” (Alyssa) “... Is that so?” (Imeraria) Setting Origa aside, Imeraria was worried in various meanings what Hifumi is doing, but as it is no use minding it too much, she decided to push it into a corner of her mind. However, she suddenly realized. “Sabnak-san, if I remember correctly, we were told that Hifumi-sama will observe Alyssa-san’s battle, weren’t we?” (Imeraria) “Y-Yes, I heard something along those lines.” (Sabnak) “Alyssa-san, did you encounter Hifumi-sama after entering Horant?” (Imeraria) Alyssa tilted her head to the side. “I haven’t seen him? I didn’t meet him at the time when I went to other side of the border either. Though I think that he probably watched from somewhere, I didn’t know about it.” (Alyssa) “That means...” (Imeraria) Imeraria was at her wits’ end. “There is the possibility that Hifumi-sama went into the heart of Horant by himself.” (Biron) “Eh, w-what for...?” (Sabnak) Sabnak is surprised. Even though Biron opened his eyes widely, he pondered while stroking her chin. His beard has grown during the hectic coming and going in his territory and encampment. “A preliminary inspection... I think?” (Biron) Everyone’s gazes focussed on Biron who mutter this brief comment. “In the matter this time, Earl Tohno talked about leaving it to Alyssa-san, right? Since that’s the case, didn’t he head to observe the deeper parts of the enemy’s movements as the battle with Horant will take a new step next?” (Biron) “Do you really believe that?” (Imeraria) Imeraria’s eyes are filled with doubts. “No, not at all, ha ha ha... honestly said, I don’t understand it well either. There probably isn’t anyone among the people here apart from Alyssa-san who has the possibility of properly understanding the thoughts and nature of that man?” (Biron) Those words pierced Imeraria’s heard like a stinging needle. That’s because she was apparently told that she probably still doesn’t understand Hifumi. “Even if he came back two or three days later while holding the heads of Horant’s leaders, I wouldn’t consider that to be odd though.” (Biron) “I don’t think that will happen.” (Alyssa) While writing something at the bottom of the report with charcoal with a scratching sound, Alyssa denied Biron’s prediction. “Seeing that Hifumi-san “himself said” that he will leave it to me, I don’t believe he will do something like helping me as long as I don’t make a blunder like yesterday morning.” (Alyssa) “H-However, if it’s Hifumi-san, won’t he try to kill the magicians and reinforced soldiers by raiding the royal castle in Horant like he did previously?” (Sabnak) Alyssa, who lifted her face, shakes her head side to side while facing Sabnak. “That shouldn’t be so.” (Alyssa) Alyssa muttered while scrubbing her right hand, which ended up becoming black due to the charcoal, with the sleeve of her left hand. “That’s because what Hifumi-san wants to achieve is for the “war to continue endlessly.” I don’t expect him to do something like ending it.” (Alyssa) Due to Alyssa frowning as her hand won’t become clean though her sleeve was turning pitch black, a maid who was unable to just watch, gave her a wet dish cloth. As Alyssa thoughtlessly wipes her hand, all present are dumbfounded. “Then, where do you think Hifumi-sama has gone?” (Imeraria) “Mmh~... I believe there’s no mistake that he has probably gone to the castle in Horant or such. Doesn’t he intend to do the same as he did to the beastmen of the wastelands there?” (Alyssa) While saying that, Alyssa returned the dish cloth to the maid. “He is certainly telling them “work harder” or such.” “That’s why we have to attack while doing our best as well”, she says and pushes a filled paper into the centre of the table. On it are the positions of Horant’s buildings Alyssa checked out before withdrawing, and the attack details noted down. “We have to to fight with Horant while going for it, okay?” (Alyssa) “Y-Your Majesty...” (Sabnak) While comparing the particulars described on the submitted paper and the expression on Alyssa’s face, Sabnak whose expression shows that he doesn’t know what’s best to do next, called out to Imeraria with a miserable voice. Imeraria, who showed a dazed expression for a short while, shook her head and stood up slowly. “I guess it’s fine. I thought that it wouldn’t do unless I just showed something that can surprise Hifumi-sama. Yesterday my way of doing things ended up being wrong, however... we will hasten the preparations right away. Alyssa-san.” (Imeraria) “What?” (Alyssa) “I want to borrow you and your soldier’s power. Won’t you please cooperate with me in order to startle Hifumi-san? ... Mostly like Hifumi-san’s evaluation of you, Alyssa-san, will climb higher if we succeed.” (Imeraria) “What do you want to do?” (Alyssa) Due to Alyssa latching on in an instant, Imeraria almost revealed an evil smile. “Let’s end the war with our hands. Let’s finish the dispute perfectly by stealing a march on Hifumi-sama. I have decided on the means for that.” (Imeraria) When Imeraria talked about her plan after the reinforcements have arrived, Sabnak and Biron were against it, but Alyssa raised her voice with a 「I fully agree!」 and Imeraria pushed her own way through with that. When the war council finished, the soldiers gazed in a strange manner at Sabnak and Biron, who appeared from the tent with pale faces and Imeraria and Alyssa who came out side-by-side while chatting with smiles. ☺☻☺magic Paryu, who had escorted Viine’s group to the capital, was relieved of that burden once she entrusted the beastmen to the knight order. Since there was also the matter of her being an official in a territory, she decided to take advantage of the situation by having Vaiya take care of their transfer to Hifumi. Although they used a highly efficient carriage, which was created by Pruflas’ team who are the dwarves of Fokalore, it doesn’t change the fact that it was quite the forced travel. At the moment she saw off Viine’s group together with Vaiya at their departure, although there were also soldiers of Fokalore attached to her as guards, Paryu felt the accumulated fatigue in both her shoulders. She tells her escort that the whole day will be a holiday and decides to depart tomorrow at noon. Watching the soldiers vanish into the city while looking happy due to the unexpected holiday, Paryu returns downtown through the gate and heads towards the highway. Given that she was born in a village that is located one day by foot from the capital, she visited the capital many times to purchase daily necessities and to transport the harvest. Her parents died due a widely spread endemic disease. The only child Paryu came to the capital with the villagers, who have scattered but she, who didn’t have any particular education besides being able to read and write the letters and who had no one to take care of her either, visited the Ular Shop by herself after eating to the limits of her stomach with the little money she had on hand and became a slave. She believed that she would get a relatively good treatment even as slave as she was a young woman who was able to read and write, however by no means did she expect to become a civil official after being bought by a noble afterwards. Even the meal she savoured after careful selection in a restaurant as her final meal before becoming a slave was as delicious as the kind of food that appears in the dining hall of the lord’s mansion in Fokalore. When she walks along the flourishing shops while remembering the events at that time, she has a feeling like that’s a remote past from a distant time already. “Ah yea, I guess I should buy everyone souvenirs?” (Paryu) Accessories for Brokra and Miyukare who are women like me. I think alcohol is excellent for Doelgar? “Caim-san is...” (Paryu) Since she didn’t hit upon an idea, she decided to make a choice while looking at the store. And then let’s return after eating various dishes After all there probably won’t be any things that can be eaten anymore once Lord-sama achieves his target. ☺☻☺ Viine’s wastelands group heads towards Horant together with knights who had gone one day ahead of the main army as an advance unit of reinforcements alongside Vaiya. Each of the knights is riding a horse. The carriage with Viine and the others on board, the chamberlains of the Knights, and the wagons where materials such as food and similar are loaded, are lined up. Since no one of Viine’s group can steer a carriage, the coachman is a male servant from the castle. “We ended up coming quite the long way.” (Puuse) Even though Puuse lets her feelings show fully, Gengu nods while smiling. “That’s right, ain’t it? But, we once we return can boast to our friends. Certainly it’s only us who have come to such place among the beastmen. As for the elves, it’s only you, Puuse-san, right?” (Gengu) “That’s probably true.” (Viine) Malfas opened his mouth with a 「But」 towards the smiling Viine. “Hasn’t someone come this way from the wastelands together with the person called Hifumi-san, I wonder?” (Malfas) Everyone within the carriage freezes. However, Malfas doesn’t notice that. “Viine-nee, you have been properly saved from slavery by that Hifumi-san, right? In that case, even at other places...” (Malfas) “Malfas-kun.” (Puuse) The one who interrupted Malfas’ speech in panic was Puuse. After sending a fleeting glance at Viine who makes a gloomy face, she points her index finger at Malfas. “Umm, even if you looked at the city’s people, there were many people who had seen elves and beastmen for the first time, right? There shouldn’t be any others besides us who met with Hifumi-san. Okay?” (Puuse) Malfas agreed obediently and Viine had a relieved expression as well. “At any rate, even humankind is engaging in turf wars, aren’t they? The guys in the wastelands are like that as well though. I guess it’s something that doesn’t change much in regards to humans and beastmen?” (Gengu) Apparently trying to change the topic, Gengu leaked a sigh through his nose while staring at the Knights in Armour who were visible behind the carriage. “I guess so. But, since it’s a “similar place” like this, won’t it be possible to cooperate as there will be people who build cities together with everyone like Reni-san?” “I see.” (Gengu) “Yea yea”, Gengu nods and hands the baton to Viine. “That means if you are successful at becoming a “couple” with Hifumi-san, Viine-san, that will become the very first step towards the goal Reni-san is aiming for. ~ssu” (Gengu) Viine’s face becomes bright red as Gengu laughs. “S-So-Something like a couple... anyway, if I can be close to master...” (Viine) “Oh well. Things start from there, don’t they? It looks like Hifumi-san is heading towards the battlefield currently, thus that will likely have to wait, right?” Due to Puuse’s argument, Viine said that she doesn’t want to do that. “If Hifumi-san is fighting, I will help as well. That’s why I have practised magic. I couldn’t bear to just wait without having any kind of role.” (Gengu) “At such time I will help, too! If it’s an opportunity to return the favour, that’s also what I’m aiming for!” (Malfas) Due to Gengu declaring that in excitement, Malfas is enthusiastic about joining in as well. Watching their state, Puuse wondered whether there might possibly be a chance to tie a relationship of friendship between humans and elves. One might say that this would certainly be a wonderful future. However, from the point of view of the elves’ ancestors, who fought while shedding blood, this might become a betrayal. No, won’t they welcome it if it results in peace after all that fighting? While watching the highway beyond the coachman on the carriage that shook more violently than the one they boarded together with Paryu when they headed to the capital, she considered trying to ask Hifumi about the story of the demons.

“It’s a face I have seen somewhere before.” (Origa) “Uuh...” (Balzephon) Striking the temporal region of a demon, whose neck had been cut by her wind blades, Origa tore off their head and sent it flying. In close proximity she discovered Balzephon who’s bashing the head of a demon he had grabbed into the stone paving while clumsily swinging his sword with full power as he fights against demons just like her. Apparently at the same time as Balzephon and Origa confirm each other by sight, a certain amount of tension travels between them. “If I recall, you were the plaza’s decoration? Is it fine for you to have a falling out with your friends at a place like this?” (Origa) Dodging the attack of a demon, who thrust his spear at her, by stepping sideways, she counters so strongly with the hilt of her iron-ribbed fan that the demon’s forehead caves in. The demon, who fainted, is being stepped on by his allies and will likely lose his life sooner or later. Unlike Hifumi, Origa’s priority objective isn’t killing, and although she’s not shy to kill her enemies, it’s no more than a means. A means for the sake of her own objective. Her current goal is to create a situation where Hifumi can be sealed. And on top of that, being as close to Hifumi as possible at the moment of the sealing. “It looks like you can fight rather well for a decoration. I can’t shut my eyes to unnecessary hindrances getting in the way when it should be a commemoration for Hifumi-sama and me. I shall get rid of you first.” (Origa) Origa happened to watch the moment when Balzephon transformed into a monster due to the magic tool, and she repelled him once already, but probably because it was a trivial matter to her, she had totally forgotten about it. “Hifumi-sama’s aim...the reality of the demons trying to attack, no, having attacked the castle while bringing along grotesque-looking monsters has been accomplished. You’re not needed any longer.” (Origa) She kicks away a fallen demon, making another male demon soldier deliberately step on his comrade. The man, who pitched forward after losing his balance in combination of getting surprised due to treading upon his ally, had his nape grasped by Origa and was pulled down. Next the back of his head that was covered by a steel helmet was struck by her folded fan. Without even confirming the blood that spreads on the stone paving, Origa approaches Balzephon. “Uuaaaah!” Balzephon pushed a nearby demon soldier with a kick towards the approaching Origa, and thrust out his sword in order to pierce her alongside the demon. However, he only got feedback from one body. “I guess you do possess a certain degree of intelligence. It seems to be limited, though.” (Origa) Her voice comes from right next to Balzephon. Judging that he doesn’t have the time to pull back his sword, Balzephon lets go of it and releases a backhand blow to mow her down. But, that attack fruitlessly cuts through empty space. that allows one to sense someone consists of the air flow, smell, sound and the pressure of life...” (Origa) This time her voice comes from behind. Changing his voice into a scream of irritation, Balzephon picked up the sword of a demon that was lying at his feet and swung it right away. However, Origa is no longer there. “If you can search for the faint hints, you won’t be misled by obvious lures... As expected, I guess it’s too difficult for an ordinary man.” (Origa) This time he can hear her voice right next to his ear. Balzephon immediately tries to seize the enemy by moving his eyeball, but there’s no one there. At that moment he notices, reflected at the edge of his sight; the male demon who’s still standing while a sword grows out of his back. The man has died. There’s no mistake in that. But, why is he standing? “If it had been Hifumi-sama, he would have immediately perceived that I haven’t moved from here... No, before I could even mislead him with a voice transmitted through wind magic, he would have bisected me alongside this corpse.” (Origa) Once Origa flings away the corpse she had propped up with her fan, she unfolds it to clear away the blood, and conceals her face that reflected her sneering. “Now I remember. You are that hybrid, that fake. You possess power and speed, but all of has been given to you. Even the body you’re using right now is borrowed, isn’t it?” (Origa) She folds the fan with a metallic click. “You have too many shortages to serve as opponent for Hifumi-sama. I will get rid of you here, after all.” (Origa) Origa steps forward. She’s casting magic, but the attack is performed with her fan. Balzephon, who intends to intercept her by swinging his sword, gives up on trying to wedge the sword between as their distance shrunk very quickly, choosing to block the fan attack by sacrificing his arm and slash the sword towards Origa’s head. “It appears you’re capable of making decisions on the spot. But, that’s all.” (Origa) The sword cuts air. The fan swung by Origa didn’t aim at Balzephon’s body, but the arm holding the sword, and made its trajectory go amiss. Her real attack was magic. “Gobaah...!” Suddenly Balzephon’s head is wrapped up by a large amount of water. The water, which had been created by magic, ignores gravity due to the mana provided by Origa, and doesn’t stop clinging to the front of his face. The aim is not suffocation. Origa didn’t consider if Balzephon, who can survive by just being a head, needs to breathe. What she considered is a method known to only a few people who possess full knowledge of the magic tool and potion effects that caused Balzephon to transform. Stabbing with the fan, she gouges out Balzephon’s neck, causing his head to be torn off Bashim’s torso. The water persistently clung to the head that fell to the ground. The amount of water visible on the surface decreasing is owed to it having permeated inside the head through the openings such as nose, mouth, and eyes. “The trait of immortality possessed by the reinforced soldiers and giant soldiers has to be greatly accounted to the magic potion that entered the “blood flow.” I’m aware of it since I experimented with it in various ways.” (Origa) “That’s why,” she cuts Balzephon’s head that’s rolling around on the stone paving apart with wind magic. The scattered blood has been diluted by water and spreads on the ground. “If you dilute and scatter it, it won’t be able to show any significant effect either. It’s a scene that I observed many times.” (Origa) Balzephon’s eyes and tongue, which moved even while having been divided, gradually lose their strength once the color of the flowing blood thinned out. Before long they completely ceased moving once they only exposed a washed-out flesh color. “Any time soon now...I guess?” (Origa) She casually looks around her. The plaza’s entrance area has been barricaded with handcarts and doors, seemingly carried in from somewhere, and was completely manned by Fokalore’s soldiers under Alyssa’s command. The number of demons has decreased. They still have big number if looking at the whole plaza, but the speed of their losses is faster than that the humans. The main reasons being Hifumi and Balzephon, who died moments ago. Seeing as she possesses the gate magic, the demons’ main target lies in the direction of the royal palace with the demon ruler and Orsongrande’s main force being situated there. The demons are either in a melee combat with the knight order and the people surrounding Hifumi now, or some foolish ones among them, who haven’t realized that there’s no reason for them to break through towards the city, are shot to death by Fokalore’s soldiers. And the knights, or in other words the knight forces led by Midas and the royal knight forces led by Vaiya, have fallen into a state of jostling with each other while continuing their battle against the demons. Origa, who calmly observed the deployment of the combat forces, discovered the person among them who shone brightly in her eyes. Even now turning a single demon soldier into a skewer while continuing a melee combat as if not knowing enemy and ally, he calmly swings his katana with a smile on his lips. The stage was set. Origa, who started to run towards Hifumi, who is facing a tiger beastboy who apparently barged into the battle, as if performing light dance steps, sends a sharp gaze towards the balcony for just an instant, and heads towards her beloved while smiling all over her face again.magic Her hand grasping the iron-ribbed fan, her face staring at him, and her chest that remembers the sensation when she was held in his arms; her entire body is on fire. “I’m coming to you right now!” (Origa) Origa, who mowed down two demon soldiers with one swing of her fan, heads towards Hifumi using the shortest distance. ☺☻☺ “Midas-san! This is His Majesty’s order! Why are you standing in our way!?” (Vaiya) “No matter what order it might be, it’s strange to attack one’s own countryman! Aren’t our swords wielded for the sake of protection!?” (Midas) “Stop with the pretty words!” Vaiya repelled Midas’ sword, but gritted his teeth in vexation as he didn’t manage to send the sword flying. Since he has no intention to kill Midas, he has to go easy on him, but with Midas’ ability being higher than expected and his way of fighting being closer to that of adventurers than that of knights, Vaiya himself had a hard time. At present the strategy of suppressing Hifumi while using the demons as pretext was in the process of falling apart. The pressure had increased because the demons were focusing on the royal castle and because Midas’ knights in the direction of the city had created a defense line to protect Hifumi. The sight of fellow knights crossing swords while ignoring the demons was unfolding all around. “What an unsightly state! It’s ridiculous to hinder the success of the strategy as knight, isn’t it!?” (Vaiya) “I’m telling you that the strategy itself poses the problem here!” (Midas) Receiving Midas’ front kick to his armored abdomen, Vaiya stumbled back. Even so he doesn’t lower his sword. Once he returns his look, which got blurred for an instant, to Midas, he was in the midst of fighting a demon who had cut in-between them. “What we should do right now is to repel the demons, right!?” (Midas) As the demon soldier slashed at him more and more, Midas stopped the blows by supporting his sword with both hands. Vaiya cut open the back of that demon. “The demon that has attacked just now is...” (Vaiya) As he’s about to say, “a sacrificial pawn,” Vaiya holds his tongue. If the surrounding demons were to hear that, this situation would become even more chaotic. The enraged demons’ offensive would press even stronger towards the castle, wouldn’t it? “Anyway, in order to make Hifumi-dono’s sealing a success, we must restrain his movements a bit!” (Vaiya) The two, who rallied their swords for three rounds, took some distance to catch their breaths. “What do you mean by that? Does Imeraria-sama intend to seal him!?” (Midas) “It’s as you’ve heard. We are going to detain Hifumi-dono’s movements somewhere on this plaza, lock him up in a barrier, and seal him. We’re using the demons’ attack in order to meet the first condition.” (Vaiya) Upon Vaiya’s explanation, Midas was surprised to the extent of becoming speechless. Forgetting that there are enemies around and in front of him, he flings off his helmet and looks up to the balcony. The queen’s expression as she looks down on the battleground from there couldn’t be seen in the shadows, but she didn’t seem agitated. “What have you been thinking...?” (Midas) To Midas Imeraria’s decision was unacceptable. He believes to logically understand that he should obey orders as a knight, but his heart doesn’t follow on that. The image of Imeraria within him was that of a girl who runs about for the sake of building a good country even while piling up on errors and who earnestly considers the well-being of her people. To Midas it was unexpected and unbelievable that she would decide to dispose of someone. An impact as if having been slashed travels across Midas’ back who was looking up at Imeraria in a daze. “Midas-san!” (Vaiya) His back having apparently been cut was something Midas noticed at the point when his face was hit by the sensation of stone. In a strangely calm manner he considered whether his armored had been pierced or whether he had been hit by an ax. He can hear the scream of what seems to be a demon, and Vaiya’s battle roar. “Midas-san, please keep it together!” (Vaiya) Midas opened his mouth upon Vaiya’s appeal. However, he’s unable to form any words. Only groaning escaped through his slightly opened mouth as if leaking air. “Captain!” “Please stay with us!” As he heard the footsteps of his subordinates that rushed over, Midas fainted while wanting to yell at them, “Don’t get all flustered up in such a disgraceful manner!” “You guys, go and carry Midas-san to the castle. If it’s an injury at this level, Advisor Puuse should be able to heal it.” (Vaiya) “She’s on the balcony,” Vaiya ordered the knights surrounding Midas. However, they don’t move immediately, and only glare at Vaiya. “...If you have any complaints, I will listen to them later. Rather than that, quickly take Midas-san away! Do you intend to lose your captain by pointlessly wasting your time here!?” (Vaiya) He cuts apart a demon that had closed in as if venting his anger. The knights, who looked at each other and nodded, lifted up Midas in his armor with three people, and started to run towards the castle. “Cover the knights who are sending back their wounded captain! Create a path for them!” (Vaiya) Hearing his order, several knights surround the group around Midas who’s being transported. “...I also know what you wanted to say. But, let’s consider it as her having grown up as a queen.” (Vaiya) Vaiya knows that the more someone knows the Imeraria from before, the less eager and the more bewildered they are by this time’s strategy. The prime minister also holds the standpoint of regarding Hifumi as dangerous, but he’s perplexed by Imeraria’s way of handling this matter. “They are all kind people. I think that this is a fine country. I feel proud of it.” (Vaiya) That’s exactly the reason why Vaiya intended to cooperate with Imeraria’s objective while putting his life on the line. It’s because Vaiya believes, “I will charge the plaza’s center! Cover me!” (Vaiya) His subordinates showed unrest for just an instant, but at once they lined up left and right of him, and forced back the demons in order in order to open a path. On the other side of the demons, who were pushing with their numbers, he discovered Origa heading towards Hifumi while kicking an enemy, but he only could see her for a moment. “Ooooooooh!” (Vaiya) Vaiya swings his words in order to not fall behind. The attacks from the demons hit his armor and wounded his arms, but he cannot afford to stop. Once Origa makes her move, Imeraria’s plan will be put in operation. In order for that plan to definitely succeed, for the sake of confirming its success from nearby, Vaiya advances.

The battle began with a surprise attack. “An attack from behind!” It was just at the moment when Alyssa, who was in the centre of the long file created by soldiers, finished the maintenance of her wakizashi in the canopied carriage. The instant she heard the voice, Alyssa stood up soundlessly and turned her look towards the rear. “Miyukare-san, stay here.” (Alyssa) “G-Got it!” (Miyukare) Being inexperienced with battle, Miyukare steps into the carriage while lowering her body in this suddenly strained atmosphere. At the same time, Alyssa jumped off the carriage. “Director, it’s this way!” Being called out by a soldier on the platform wagon which was travelling parallel to the carriage, she nimbly jumps onto the rear side of the wagon. “Hurry!” (Alyssa) The platform wagon of Fokalore’s feudal army, which had experienced one improvement after the other, adopts things like cushion materials to suppress the sounds of the many large wheels rising its appearance and performance remarkably. Becoming as big to let easily people board one wagon, there’s no problem even with Alyssa herself joining. The platform wagon advances as it makes an unique sound of *shuru shuru* due to the axles and cushioning, made out of monster hides, rubbing against each other. Responding swiftly to the previous voice, the soldiers went ahead by separating from the ranks of the non-combatants and prepared their weapons while facing towards the rear. “Be cautious of attacks coming from left or right! One third of our numbers will deal with the rear!” (Alyssa) While giving orders in a loud voice, they arrive at the end of the file. “A human-shaped monster!?” One of the soldiers steering the platform wagon screamed. Alyssa also saw that bizarre figure. Both its arms and legs are oddly longer than those of a normal human. All of its nails are sharp and thick. It easily possesses a height of three meters. Its body, which had barely any clothes remaining, was hairy and had an amount of ugly, swelled-up and enlarged muscles. Only its head had a face strongly tending towards that of a human. Alyssa had memories about that face. “That is... if I remember correctly, in the capital...” (Alyssa) It was no one else but the knight Balzephon which Alyssa had provoked in the castle and lured to the dance hall where Hifumi was waiting. She still recalled his expression of trembling in rage. “The human-shaped monster... Balzephon, it was him.” (Alyssa) Alyssa had a bitter expression due to their misfortune of not encountering it while waiting but coming across it while withdrawing. Once she surveyed the site, she saw several soldiers being injured and shedding blood. Creating a wall by toppling over a few wagons, they shot spears at Balzephon. “Send the injured to the ranks in front after I attract its attention!” (Alyssa) Alyssa jumps out using a wagon as foothold while shouting. “That’s dangerous, director!” The soldier, who operated a spear thrower in the shadow a wagon, tried to stop her, but she quickly slipped through his hands. “It’s been a while!” (Alyssa) Balzephon shifted his focus and opened his hollow eyes widely due to Alyssa’s voice. It totally doesn’t look like there’s consciousness dwelling in them. It seems like he doesn’t even recognise Alyssa. Towards an opponent that has merely half the size of himself, Balzephon simply raises his arms overhead to attack. “Without any particular reaction, eh? In that case.” (Alyssa) As he swings down his long arms she barely wards off the long nails aiming at her face with her wakizashi. She used the impact on the level of destroying her balance violently towards the momentum of moving forward with a somersault.magic And yet she didn’t come out of it unhurt. Her cheek was cut deeply and blood was pouring out. “Gu...” A heartbreaking cry is raised by the soldier who saw that, but she has no leeway to react to that. Closing in underfoot of Balzephon while rolling forward, she swung her wakizashi and cut open a calf. Two, three spears pierce into his back as he squats down while raising a scream. “Guuuuu...!” The moment Alyssa, who passed through underfoot, tried to pursue him, she saw something unbelievable. Although she should have definitely cut up the muscles and caused an injury to the tendon of his ankle, he has already stopped bleeding and the wound is on the verge of being completely closed. Alyssa movements stop albeit only for an instant. Aiming for that moment, Balzephon drew out a spear, which caused pain to him, and casually threw it at Alyssa. It was good luck for her that the spear had no blade and was only sharpened at its tip to be used by the spear throwers. Having the collarbone of the hit shoulder broken, even her right arm, which she tried to protect with the wakizashi, got dragged into it and the forearm was fractured by the strike. Although she somehow managed to switch the wakizashi into her left hand, Alyssa, who ended up collapsing due to the impact, has received damage at the level of making it difficult for her to stand up. “Director! Everyone, shower it with all the spears we got! We will save the director!” Three soldiers risk their lives by leaping in front of Balzephon and at the same time the rear unit makes sure to pursuit by firing the spears simultaneously. There are also some among them who throw the spears with their own hands. Covering Alyssa so that the spears won’t hit her, the three soldiers thought of only protecting Alyssa even while they were scared to death by occasional spears hitting their armours within this rain of spears that was falling down steadily. “Aaaaaaaaaa!” Even Balzephon, who knocked down spears while displaying his own ability, was naturally unable to handle such an amount and took flight away from the highway with several spears pierced into his body. None of the soldiers try to chase him and they all rush over to Alyssa at once. “Director! Are you alright!?” Sweating profoundly, the groaning Alyssa opens her eyes and surveys the vicinity. Countless soldiers are peering worriedly at her face. Even the soldiers, who risked their bodies to protect her, two of them get down on their knees getting ready to place her on a stretcher by supporting Alyssa’s neck without even wiping their faces which were smeared with dirt. The remaining soldier is laying at Alyssa’s feet while facing upwards without moving with a twitch. The soldiers, who noticed Alyssa staring dumbfoundedly at the unmoving man, strongly closed their eyes. “Director...” “That guy, at the time the monster swung its spear...” The soldiers report the circumstances with squeezed-out voices. “... Such a...” (Alyssa) He has become the first casualty in combat after establishing the Fokalore feudal army trained by Hifumi. There were also accidents during training and deaths from diseases and afflictions unrelated to the military. It wasn’t the first time they bereaved a soldier, but the matter of him abandoning his life in order to protect her, even more so in front of her, in combat, stirred up Alyssa’s heart to the extent of making her forget the pain of her own injuries. “Alyssa-sama!” (Miyukare) At the time she fell into a frenzy, Miyukare, who made her way through the soldiers, slid in front of Alyssa. Without minding getting dirty, she kneels down in front of the lying Alyssa and applies a clean cloth on Alyssa’s cut cheek. Showing surprise only for an instant due to the obviously fractured arm, Miyukare, who immediately assessed the situation of the surroundings, gently hugged Alyssa while being cautious of not touching her arm as much as possible. “Let’s get your injuries healed first. That’s the job of the person who was protected.” (Miyukare) The soldiers placed Alyssa, who lost consciousness just like that, on a stretcher and carried her to the carriage upon Miyukare’s orders. “Carry the corpse to a carriage or wagon that has space left, too.” (Miyukare) As they agreed upon the case something happened to Alyssa, the command is transferred to Miyukare. “Are we close to a nearby city? There’s a city close-by in the direction we returned from though.” While pointing her look at Alyssa, who’s being carried, Miyukare thought about the question posed by a soldier leading a platoon with closed eyes. “... Let’s head towards Fokalore as planned. I’m certain she will get treated with magic potions if I request it from Lord-sama.” (Miyukare) The expression of Miyukare, who saw the soldier nod while saying “I see”, was completely like that of a fierce god. Becoming bloodstained from her face to her chest at the time she hugged Alyssa, she is overwhelmed by anxiety as well as rage and dons a harsh gaze at the level of being able to kill people with it. “You will return to Fokalore at full speed. You will move at maximum speed using a platform wagon with people on it, including the director and the corpse. You should arrive within once day if you don’t rest.” (Miyukare) While separating from the soldiers in order to organise things, Miyukare bowed her head facing the soldier who was placed on a stretcher with a cloth covering him. Even the soldiers, who were in the vicinity of the stretcher, mourn over his death while standing at attention. “Thank you very much. Because of you risking your life, a precious person for me and everyone was saved. Please watch over us as we will definitely deliver the person you protected with your life to Fokalore.” (Miyukare) At the time Miyukare voiced out words of thankfulness once again, she could hear sobs leaking from someone with her ears. ☺☻☺ “... So?” (Hifumi) Alyssa, who returned to the feudal lord’s mansion, receives treatment in the medical room and is put to sleep within her own room in the building. And currently, in front of Hifumi, who is in his office, several soldiers with the rank of platoon leader and Miyukare are standing in a line. They are bowing their backs with an angle of °. It was Miyukare who answered Hifumi’s question. “After repelling the human-shaped monster, we took Director Alyssa and hurried to return as fast as possible. Please take properly into account that it was the selfish wish of an incompetent person who has no military gains after we suffered losses. Could you please heal the wounds of Director Alyssa with the magic potions you possess, Lord-sama?” (Miyukare) “Please”, the soldiers matched up their voices following up on Miyukare’s words. Hifumi sighed with a “fuu.” “I don’t particularly care about someone’s military gains or whether there were any losses. I don’t mind in any way to apply the magic potion if it’s Alyssa’s own wish.” (Hifumi) “Thank you very much.” (Miyukare) “However, before that I’d like to ask you one thing.” (Hifumi) Miyukare and the soldiers, who raised their heads, noticed Hifumi smiling. A soldier points at Hifumi’s left hand which was covered by a glove. “Was that human-shaped monster or whatever strong?” (Hifumi) One of the soldiers answers as Miyukare hasn’t seen the battle. “It was strong. It caused such a serious injury with one blow of a spear at the director and it warded off the previous attack of that skilled director, too. Also, we confirmed that its injuries quickly healed even when it was cut and pierced by spears.” Hifumi is staring at the soldier, who talks with a serious look, while smiling. “Its wounds were healed? How about the cuts? Were those closed up by bulging flesh? Or was it closed up from the wound’s edges? There are likely various manners of recovery. Besides, how about the healing speed?” (Hifumi) The soldier explains as many details as he can to Hifumi who is asking in a somewhat excited manner. Hifumi listened to that with a strange degree of good mood. “Lord-sama, please give us the chance to have our revenge with a rematch!” “Nope.” (Hifumi) Hifumi flatly declines the petition of the soldier who was filled with intense fighting spirit. “It’s an opponent that has done in the current Alyssa one-sidedly, right? Isn’t that one far more interesting than the troubles in Horant? There’s probably still quite some time left until the demon bunch gets here. I will take care of that fellow. In the first place, can you guys deal with it anyway?” (Hifumi) “Uuh... Please take care of it.” The soldier, who hadn’t the confidence to bring it down definitely if speaking honestly, withdrew obediently. The fist, he tightly grasped in frustration, is filled with a strength to cause blood oozing out. “Don’t be so discouraged. That guy is probably a monster released by the newly crowned demon king. Since there will likely come other underlings of the demon king, it will be fine for you to get your revenge to your heart’s content at that time.” (Hifumi) “Demon king...” (Miyukare) Miyukare, who doesn’t believe in that, made a bitter face, but she remained silent as knows Hifumi’s aim. “Ah, I went to check out the state of the demons for a bit at the time when I was in the wastelands, but a new demon king was born. Since the battle with the demons will start sooner or later, you will be able to fully enjoy your revenge for Alyssa and the guy who died. Train in order to be properly ready for the battle until then.” (Hifumi) “Ha! At that time, please give us the chance to slaughter the enemies by all means!” After bowing all together, the soldiers left. Only Miyukare remained in the room. “... It’s a lie, isn’t it?” (Miyukare) “The birth of a new demon king is the truth though? I don’t know whether it’s related to the monster.” (Hifumi) “I’m shocked... isn’t something like the possibility of the demons starting an offensive a big problem? So easily...” (Miyukare) “It’s fine. Such people think simply.” (Hifumi) Standing up, Hifumi affixed the katana to his waist. “Since the enemy will come, we are going to kill them. We will die if we lose. Since I have adjusted it to some degree, we likely won’t be defeated if we go at it with the intention to die.” (Hifumi) While laughing loudly, Hifumi tells her that he is going to see Alyssa and also leaves. Being left all alone, Miyukare tilted her head to the side. “Somehow I feel uneasy...” (Miyukare) Miyukare felt a sense of discomfort, but she didn’t have the spare time to calmly think about it in this place. On top of a large number of people returning soon, there was also the first battle casualty. She can’t see anything but a future of being worked to death as civil official in charge of military affairs. “Let’s get everyone help out.” (Miyukare) She was worried about Alyssa, but deciding to leave it to Hifumi albeit feeling frustrated, Miyukare headed towards the other civil officials at a quick pace. Alyssa, who was lying on the bed at the time when Hifumi entered her room, turned her look towards him with her face being wrapped up in bandages. Given that she can’t move her fixated shoulder, she can only move her eyes somewhat. “Ah, Hifumi-san... it’s disgraceful, this appearance.” (Alyssa) While saying “Don’t worry about it” due to the feeble laughter of Alyssa, Hifumi brought a fitting chair close and sat down next to her bed. “I saw you at the time you were far more tattered. It doesn’t matter by now.” (Hifumi) “Good grief... it’s different in various ways from that time...” (Alyssa) Hifumi addressed Alyssa, who pulled up the blanket up to her face with her healthy left hand, in his usual manner. “It seems you fought against a human-shaped monster. How was it?” (Hifumi) “Monster... is it? That is probably that knight who escaped from the royal palace’s dance hall, I think.” (Alyssa) “What’s this about?” (Hifumi) Hearing Alyssa explanation, Hifumi pondered about it. “Well, it’s fine either way, I guess? The matter of him being an underling of the demon king if he has a human shape has credibility. If he catches the eyes of the capital or the knights, it will be fine as long he makes them lose face or grills them. ... Oops, will you be able to get over it quickly?” (Hifumi) Having suddenly torn off the blanket, Alyssa’s figure being wrapped up in bandages became exposed. The slender, flexible, trained, small body had currently medicine and alcohol as disinfectant substitute applied to it and she was only wearing thin trousers on the lower party of her body. “W-Wait a moment...” (Alyssa) “Stay still. It’s not the first time for you anyway.” (Hifumi) Taking out a magic potion from his darkness storage, Hifumi quickly checked Alyssa’s body while removing the lid. “The injuries are the shoulder and arm as well as the cheek. Is there anything else?” (Hifumi) “... No, the rest’s fine.” (Alyssa) Taking off the bandages and fixations which covered Alyssa’s body from her right arm and shoulder up to her breasts, Hifumi casually applied the magic potion on her upper body half with its smooth and insufficient ups and downs. Alyssa stiffened her body for an instant to due to the coldness, but once her wounds heal and her pain decreases, she gradually loses strength. “Hey, Hifumi-san...” (Alyssa) “What’s up?” (Hifumi) “A single soldier died in order to protect me...” (Alyssa) “Yea, that’s right.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who confirmed her body to be healed after using around 70%, put his hand on the bandage on her face. “Following you, Hifumi-san, I became a director one way or the other, but such a situation is, well, no good, right...?” (Alyssa) “No, not particularly.” (Hifumi) He gently spills the remaining magic potion on Alyssa’s cheek. “You yourself decide whether something’s fine or no good. Among commanders there’s likely many who deem it acceptable if there are a lot more casualties among the enemy than among their allies.” (Hifumi) In order to check whether the injury on her cheek had fully healed, Hifumi stroke Alyssa’s cheek with his right hand and placed it on top of her head with a *pon* “I will be troubled if you aren’t there. As it’s fine to do it your way, please consolidate that passionate lot.” (Hifumi) Floating tears with a *sniff*, Alyssa held both her hands due to the right hand which was placed on her head. Its heat is transmitted to her and an excessive grief fills her chest. Alyssa pushes her face into Hifumi’s belly as her tears begin to overflow and her expression crumples. Placing her arms, including the one which was healed just now, strongly around his back, she hugged him with all her might. Her mumbled crying voice continued to resound in the room until Alyssa fell asleep after getting worn out from crying.

“Don’t you think that it’s far more sound to put in great effort and gain a future for the demons on the battlefield rather than a destiny of perishing in a closed world like this?” (Agathion) Agathion chose a separate room with a lounge suit, and not the throne room, making it possible for him to sit opposite of Hifumi. With the reasoning that Hifumi isn’t even a demon, let alone a retainer, there are matters which Agathion deemed acceptable to discuss while sitting on the throne, but there are also matters which shouldn’t be talked about in front of many retainers. And, his first statement was a bombshell announcement at the level of making Phegor jump up vigorously. “K-King! That is...” (Phegor) “Calm down and listen up, Phegor. Aren’t you in front of a guest?” (Agathion) Beaming with a refreshing smile, Agathion crossed his legs and raised his eyes to the ceiling. “After all, the state of resentment accumulating in this miniature garden can’t be expected to be normal. Since it’s too lonely for us to give up and rot away, it would be best if it goes smoothly after trying to do something about it, otherwise it’ll be the end of the demon race. And I think that’s fine.” (Agathion) Correcting his posture, Agathion suddenly gulped down around half of the coffee in the cup. “Pheew. Human-san, what is your name?” (Agathion) Hifumi is drinking his second cup today as well. “More or less I became a noble in a human country. However, I’m in the process of touring this world.” (Hifumi) “That’s great. I’m very envious. It’s a very fantastic story.” (Agathion) Once he tells the maid, who was nearby, to bring some sweets, Agathion smiles at Hifumi. “Although I’ve never seen them personally, there are dwarves and beastmen in addition to humans and elves as well, aren’t there? Did you happen to meet them, Hifumi?” (Agathion) “I did. I met with many beastmen before coming here. There are dwarves amongst the bunch I got to know before that. There are the elves, too.” (Hifumi) “Oh, you encountered the elves as well... but that’s only natural since you should have passed through the place of the elves if I go by what you’ve said.” (Agathion) Vepar is sitting next to Hifumi as if it was the usual. Though it’s an impossible situation for a retainer if it was a human country, Agathion doesn’t seem to mind it. “What were your impressions of the elves? They hate the demons after all, don’t they?” (Agathion) Hifumi addressed Agathion, who is somewhat excited, with a serious look. “I had the impression that they feared the release of you demons. Somehow they treat you as “enemy of the world.”” (Hifumi) “What! Just what the heck did we do!?” (Phegor) Agathion only nodded in silence, but Phegor got indignant. According to their story, the time where the demons confronted the humans and elves continued for a long time and finally the demons were sealed in this place after being pushed into it by the elves. Since that’s a story from several generations ago, the demons were amassing resentment for being imprisoned undeservedly as result of a past they have no knowledge of. On the other hand, the elves’s side, which is the one doing the sealing, was able to succeed in maintaining the barrier as “act of justice.” “After all, just the elves have to be defeated by any means necessary! King, shouldn’t we accomplish our revenge by seeking Hifumi-dono’s cooperation here?” (Phegor) Vepar makes a face as if being fed up with it due to Phegor roaring intensely. And, Agathion also has a look of not being too enthusiastic about it. “Mmh~ ... What do you think, Hifumi?” (Agathion) Watching Phegor who stood up, Hifumi smiled due to the question of Agathion who pondered while moving his mouth with a *monyo monyo*. “Fighting is a good thing. Even if you clearly know your enemy, I believe it to be proper to also regard your further ambitions. But you know...” (Hifumi) “Is there something bothering you? Are the elves incredibly powerful or such?” (Vepar) For the first time Vepar has a seriousness reflected in her eyes. Usually she is absentminded, but she is also in a position of having to look after the lives of many soldiers. Even she has no intention to expose her subordinates to danger pointlessly. “I killed several elves, but they weren’t that particularly strong either. I saw the battle with the monsters and the demon wielding a large sword, thus as far as I know the demons are superior in regards to fighting strength, I guess.” (Hifumi) “I don’t know your individual abilities though”, Hifumi changed the topic completely. “Won’t the barrier vanish or become weaker in a while?” (Hifumi) “Oh? Why do you think so?” (Agathion) Agathion bent himself forward. “The majority of elves will leave the forest. I don’t know about their destination, but they became aware of meeting tragic deaths if they stayed in that forest. For them the forest is nothing more but a target of fear, I suppose.” (Hifumi) Hifumi talked about the forests’ characteristic of being the cause of the elves dying by changing into arbour without concealing anything. Once he mentioned that he dissected elves in the process, Phegor’s and Agathion’s grey faces became pale, though Vepar listened closely. “I see... our enemies will be gone before we realize it, is what you mean, eh? Far from swinging our fists at them, our targets might be gone before we can even clutch them, right?” (Agathion) While rolling about on the sofa, Agathion groans. “Ah~ I give up! I thought we would be able to solidify the unity of the demons one way or the other by having them vent their stress if it’s a battle.” (Agathion) “If you want to fight, it’s fine to do so though.” (Hifumi) “... What do you mean?” (Agathion) Agathion was laying face-down while clinging on the cushion, but he turned one eye towards Hifumi. “That’s simple. It’s fine if you aim for someone else than the elves. There are others as well, you said so yourself, didn’t you? There are dwarves, beastmen and humans as well. Aren’t there other races, not just the elves?” (Hifumi) “D-Does a human propose to fight with humans...?” (Agathion) “I don’t think that something to be surprised about.” (Hifumi) Hifumi lifted the edges of his mouth. “Humans are constantly fighting amongst each other, aren’t they? However, as the details of the battles had a fixed style, they haven’t grown up.” (Hifumi) Hifumi stood up and clapped Agathion’s shoulder. “If you are going to rampage anyway, think about doing it on a larger stage. If you want to make the name of the demons known, it’s just right to at least target the whole world and not only the elves.” (Hifumi) “If you are going to be hated anyway, you don’t have to hold back against anyone, right? If you are unable to live in the elven concession, you have only two choices: remain here or search for a dwelling in a distant place.” (Hifumi) Placing the katana at his waist, Hifumi put his finger on his hakama and fixed a crease. “Where are you going?” (Agathion) Hifumi, who turned around while opening the door answered Agathion’s question, “Depending on your guys’ answer, I will decide whether I will cooperate with you or not. I plan to stroll around the city for a while, therefore it’s alright if you call me again once you came to a conclusion.” (Hifumi) “Ah, then let me guide you through the city!” (Vepar) Chasing Hifumi who left the room, Vepar swiftly stood up and ran off. “King-sama, please excuse me~” (Vepar) “Yea, teach him about the things which can be enjoyed in the demons’ city.” (Agathion) The door is closed with a small sound. The standing Phegor faced Agathion and kneeled. “My king, it was obviously careless of me to have brought that person along.” (Phegor) “No, it was good that I heard the stories from an outsider after all. You did well to find him.” (Agathion) Once Agathion made an exaggerated nod, Phegor stated his feelings of being sorry while unable to move his body. “The elves’ place is dangerous, huh? If we assume that it’s really true that the barrier will vanish... it doesn’t look like we have overly much time left to care-freely ponder about things. It appears I have to make a large decision, Phegor.” (Agathion) “Oh king, you are great. All of the demons will follow that decision.” (Phegor) Agathion looked up to the sky due to Phegor who answered with completely clear eyes.magic “Aren’t you just putting me under pressure with that?” (Agathion) Agathion, who sighed “Well, it’s fine”, expressed his own thought in a small voice that couldn’t be heard by Phegor. “Fighting with humans and beastmen, eh? Anyway, even if it’s only a single opponent, it’s something I want to begin with a proper victory.” (Agathion) ☺☻☺ Having suffered a close to a half dead injury by Origa, Balzephon defeated the strengthened monster while barely escaping alive. Dismantling the magic tool which was embedded in the monster, he lost consciousness for a long time after forcing it into his own chest resolutely. How dazzling. He intended to mutter that at the beginning when he opened his eyes faintly, but what came out from Balzephon’s mouth weren’t words but only groans. He doesn’t know in what kind of state he is. While his mind was confused, his sight finally became clear. He rises his body sluggishly while exhaling. Apparently I’m surrounded by trees. The sunlight, which spilled through the branches with their thickly grown green leaves, seems to have woken up Balzephon. “...?” (Balzephon) He eagerly recalls the situation until the point he lost consciousness. Although he should be covered in wounds all over his body, he doesn’t feel any pain. Realizing that his field of vision is unnaturally high, Balzephon timidly looked down at his body. He unintentionally leaked a moan. Having trained properly, he should have a firm physique, but on top of his body being covered in muscles all over he has changed into a giant. Hair grew thinly on his whole body and his clothes were tattered and torn. While being confused, he looks at his limbs one after the other. His feet and arms have become as thick as logs and were wrapped in muscles which were as hard as rock. His nails are massive and sharp, matching small knives. “A-A monster?” Once he turns around due to the voice he heard all of a sudden, there were two men, who appear to be swordsmen wearing armour, and a robed woman, who seems to be a magician. They looked at Balzephon with surprised faces. “Have you ever seen such a monster!?” While retreating - steps, the magician tells the two men to escape. “No, it will be lucrative if we can sell it to the guild as it is a new species. A human type is troublesome, but we will be able to manage one way or the other if it’s only one.” Once one of the swordsmen drew his sword, the other became silent and prepared his weapon likewise. “Geeze! Protect me properly, will you!?” As the woman set up her wand while cursing, the two swordsmen are slowly closing the distance to Balzephon. In the time the adventurers talked amongst each other, Balzephon calmly observed the humans in front of him while leaking a groan and hot long breath since he wasn’t able to properly close his mouth due to the grown canines. His brain doesn’t work. His mind is simply dominated by a violent urge. “Hee, it looks to be afraid. Is it the first time it saw humans?” One of the swordsmen laughs foolishly while closing in. Balzephon shook his sharp, grown nails. (I want to kill.) A voice as if he had clearly heard that reverberated in his mind. At that moment Balzephon had a feeling as if his body was controlled by something. When he suddenly noticed that, one swordsman sprouted blood from his throat while writhing. “Maden! Fuck!” The other swordsman comes attacking with his sword raised overhead. “Gaah!” Raising his voice completely like a beast, Balzephon’s arm stretches out. The sharp nail was faster than the sword which came swinging down. The swordman’s eyeball was pierced. The swordsman, who dropped his sword without even raising his voice due to the pain and impact, had his head cut by the nails even more and was killed quickly. Forgetting even her spell chanting, the woman closely hugged her wand and trembled. What was fortunate for her was that Balzephon didn’t attack. Balzephon himself was bewildered by his own actions. Staring at his bloodstained hands, he stood stock still. The woman, who left the scene slowly, desperately ran away while carrying the deaths of her companions in her confused mind. Afterwards the woman, who returned to the city while barely escaping alive, reported to the guild. Catching sight of the “fiendish human type monster” which sometimes appears in Orsongrande and the vicinity of Vichy, it causes many victims. As many of the victims were adventurers, several guilds, which are located in the Vichy direction of Orsongrande, finally requested support from Fokalore. ☺☻☺ “Good grief, they are forcing troubles onto an old man.” (Reshi) Arosel’s guildmaster, Reshi, who arrived in Fokalore at last by using a carriage from Arosel, rubbed his waist which had a tingling pain because of the long sitting in the carriage. “It’s been several years since I came to Fokalore, but it changed quite a bit.” (Reshi) He, who came several times to Fokalore, which was past the national border, as adventurer in his early days, was surprised by the rate of growth of Fokalore which has been evaluated as “more of a city than the capital” and was completely different from the past. Establishing wide roads and laying out rails in the middle of them, rail wagons blaze through at great speeds. There are also many people walking. Even Reshi, who is proud about his vigour in relation to his age, is feeling sick by the crowd of people. While taking a rest sometimes, Reshi stopped for a bit in front of the feudal lord’s mansion he finally reached. “Well then, what to do...?” (Reshi) He remembered that the girl, who previously visited Arosel’s guild, called herself military director. He has felt awkward to request a fight from a girl who has no more than a fraction of his age. However, it was something they decided as guild. “If I name myself Reshi who is the one in charge of Arosel’s guild, will I be able to meet with Military Director-dono.” (Reshi) “Yea, if that’s the case, please try asking at the reception after entering inside.” A soldier, who is at the side of the mansion’s entrance, pointed inside as if it was something usual. Once he entered inside as he was told, he saw the figures of staff members who are noisily and busily dealing with the inhabitants of Fokalore. , Reshi called out to one of them. Being told to wait for a moment, he was led to a room on the second floor after around minutes. “Thank you very much for waiting.” He waited in the room for several seconds. Then a single man appeared in front of Reshi. “I’m called Caim and I’m working as civil official in Earldom Tohno. Since the Military Director is out of office currently, I shall listen to your business in her stead.” (Caim) Talking in a calm voice, his expression lacks any emotions as he makes his greetings. He is expressionless as if he had a mask on his face. “I’m called Reshi, the guildmaster of Arosel’s guild. Please let me excuse myself at this occasion for suddenly visiting.” (Reshi) “So, what’s your reason for deciding to come to Fokalore?” (Caim) Caim, who sat across of Reshi, got straight to the point from the start. “I was previously visited by the Military Director. There was mention about the human type monster in our conversation at that time, but since the victims are centred around adventurers in the last few days, I came immediately visiting thinking that I might ask you kindly for assistance.” (Reshi) “A human type monster? I see...” (Caim) “I really want to move towards its extermination, but this monsters is extremely powerful. While it’s disgraceful, there are currently no adventurers who can deal with it.” (Reshi) Even while being bewildered by Caim’s looking directly at him with a serious look during his statement, Reshi explained everything about the damage caused by the monster without hiding anything. “I grasped the situation.” (Caim) “Then...” (Reshi) “Let’s attach a large number of guards to merchant groups and the travelling of important people. By dispatching soldiers from Fokalore as well, we shall increase the guard duty on the highway.” (Caim) However, Caim doesn’t mention the coping with the monster itself at all. “B-But, if we leave it alone as is, the damage will further...” (Reshi) “Our Lord, Earl Tohno exceedingly hates himself and his own things being used in a beneficial way. Let us help in order to solve the problem. However, we won’t do it in the shape of sending soldiers to cooperate with the guild.” (Caim) No emotions are shown on Caim’s face who stated that. As Reshi is looking for his next words, Caim continued further, “... But, if it’s unrelated to the guild, we will be able to move upon our own judgement.” (Caim) “E-Excuse me, but I wonder if this method doesn’t have dangerous aspects...” (Reshi) Based on the incidents occurring in an area close to the national border of Vichy, Reshi conveyed his worries that if they mobilized their troops, it might end up triggering an unwanted stimulus. “I wonder if it isn’t fine if we simply convey the request to the guilds in the surroundings, but...” (Reshi) However, Caim’s answer surpassed the category of Reshi’s understanding. “While keeping the enemy army in check, we will deal with the fiendish monster. It’s a two-fronts strategy. It should become a good exercise.” (Caim) “I-In that case, a conflict will occur once again and also...” (Reshi) “There’s no problem even if it turns into a war. Rather, our Lord wishes for that. And, naturally we abide to his wishes. A vicious monster is a wonderful thing. If it turns into a war, it will be even more wonderful.” (Caim) Reshi became afraid of the man in front of him. This time is similar to the time when Hifumi showed up and sent one adventurer after the other into their oblivion. “Thank you.” (Caim) Due to Caim bowing abruptly, Reshi didn’t get the meaning. “Because of the information you brought, we will be able to head into even more battles. And we will be able to wait for our feudal lord’s return while growing even further.” (Caim) Reshi wasn’t able to say anything else anymore.

“Please, welcome home.” (Caim) “Yea, it’s been a while.” (Hifumi) Hifumi answered Caim’s greeting by waving his left hand. Caim noticed that Hifumi’s left hand had been wrapped up in thin leather gloves, but he pretended to not have done so. Caim knew that it was Paryu who bought the leather gloves for a part of Hifumi’s left hand as he requested from her after she visited his room, but while he hasn’t heard the reason from Paryu, he believed that there was no reason for him to ask himself. “Shall I prepare your meal?” (Caim) “Since I’m going to eat something suitable outside, don’t care about it. Let’s hear the current matters once I return.” (Hifumi) “Ah, right. Let’s have you come with me. You haven’t eaten lunch yet, have you?” (Hifumi) Being seen off by many staff members, Hifumi left the mansion to stroll around while taking Caim along. “Do you know some good restaurant?” (Hifumi) “No. I’m always using my own room or the dining hall of the mansion.” (Caim) Hifumi, who seems to be bothered by the yet stiff brand new dougi, walks while constantly shifting the area around his armpit by thrusting his hand into his pocket. Once they arrive at an area where shops are lining up, the attention of many people gathers on Hifumi. “Lord-sama! Welcome home!” “Thank you as usual! Please drop by any time!” The ones who called out to him from the shops were many middle-aged shopkeepers. Since Hifumi buys mainly food after departing to the city and occasionally purchases unusual dougi’s and such on a whim, unlike normal nobles, all of the storekeepers of Fokalore know the face of their feudal lord. There were also some among them who appeared personally in front of Hifumi. It’s the students who have come to Fokalore in order to study. “Earl-sama, if you don’t mind reading something we stumbled upon...” Standing at the front, the little girl, who looks to still be in the middle of her teens, showed the documents, she held at her breast, to Hifumi. Those were the transcriptions of the numerical calculations Hifumi had Caim’s group do some time ago. Seeing those, Hifumi almost burst into laughter. “Fuha, have you always used these problems? ... ah, it was calculations.” (Hifumi) What was described there were numerical calculations asking for the volume of things like cylinders and quadrangular pyramids. Naturally, Hifumi, who was just about to graduate from high school, can solve those while humming a tune. Receiving a charcoal wrapped in a cloth, which is used as writing tool, Hifumi fluently filled out the calculation methods. “It’s solved with this, right?” (Hifumi) “T-Thank you very much!” Once the blushing girl bowed, the male student with the same age readily came out in front from behind. Differing from the girl, his expression is somewhat disappointed. “Earl-sama, I have a question.” “What is it?” (Hifumi) “Just a moment...” The female student tries to stop him, but ignoring her, the male student met Hifumi’s look. “Tohno-sama, you have now the status of Earl and possess many deeds of arms, but I have heard that you have originally been a commoner.” Hifumi shows a smirk due to the matter of him having suddenly started to talk about social status. Caim, who is restraining himself diagonally behind him, kept a watchful eye on the situation expressionlessly. “So?” (Hifumi) “My family is an Earl household which has the tradition of great men appearing one after the other since times immemorial. I have now come to study in Fokalore following the order of my father, but... how the hell are these calculations useful in any way? Speaking honestly, I don’t understand what meaning they have.” The student, who snorted with a “hmph”, was smug about having finished saying what he wanted to say, but the female student behind him has ended up becoming completely pale. That female student continues to get even further pale. “Her home is of a lower rank than mine, but she is an elegant lady of a Viscount household. There are other things than these worthless calculations we should learn!” Did he believe that it was time to attack? Hifumi listened to all of the statements of the student, who continued in a far more coercing manner than before, without saying a single word. Once he heard them, he returns, without his smile crumbling, “If you believe it to be pointless, it’s fine for you to stop, isn’t it?” (Hifumi) “Huh?” The student, who prepared to advocate the necessities frantically, opened his mouth and eyes and showed a blank expression. The female student has a face full of surprise as well. “We aren’t particularly forcing you to come here. You have to decide by yourself what you should do.” (Hifumi) “S-So, are you then admitting that this studying is useless?” “It might be pointless for you.” (Hifumi) The student looked like he wanted to give his outweighing opinion due to Hifumi’s reply, but he was dumbfounded by the following words, “In any case, let alone not understanding the significance of what you learned, the problem lies within you not wanting to think about how to use it. It’s fine for you to go to somewhere else if all that you are wishing for are good marks. Even if you learn something stupid, it will just be a waste of time and paper.” (Hifumi) “Are you insulting me who is the legitimate heir of an Earl household?” “I haven’t told you anything but the truth.” (Hifumi) “Besides”, Hifumi continued. “What kind of charm does your household or her household hold? If you and me fought, do you think that my katana won’t pierce you if your father’s an Earl? If you like, we can test it right here and now though.” (Hifumi) At the time he placed his hand on the katana at his waist, the male student ran away as fast as he could. “This might be called an insult to the feudal lord. Since I will know him right away from the enrolment list, I will punish him later on.” (Caim) “No, not necessary. He is still a brat. If he brings along soldiers after whining to his Earl father to aim for my life due to an unjustified resentment with this, I will be able to enjoy it.” (Hifumi) The female student, who listened to the exchange between lord and retainer, bowed her head while staggering with a pale face. “I-I’m very sorry, Earl-sama.” “Do you also have doubts about the current study contents?” (Hifumi) “No...” After making a worn-out face and looking in the direction where the male student left, she shakes her head. “I learned in this place the ability to control the territory’s administration as well as the army’s operation with numerical figures. I will likely be married to some noble, but I believe that I want at least to be able to grasp the circumstances of the residents living there.” Once he heard that answer, Hifumi placed his right hand on her shoulder, encouraged her with “well, please do your best at creating a “powerful territory”” and left while taking Caim along. Powerful territory means literally a stable economy and possessing strong soldiers, I guess ☺☻☺ The power chart in Swordland ended up getting completely rewritten. Humans and beastmen, who were in an overwhelmingly inferior position due to their numbers, lived in the original slums, but with the addition of the elves, their numbers have increased and there’s almost no trace left of a slum once they put the buildings of the city completely in order. Furthermore, even the idea of “magic by beastmen” proposed by Reni, at last showed progress at the time one week had elapsed after having gathered candidates and started training. “... I did it!” Holding a plain wand, a small water current appeared from the cheap, impure crystal, which served as support to manipulate the mana at the wand’s tip. It was only an amount of around a single fist, but it had a force at the level of bending a board which leaned against a wall. “Amazing! Even beastmen are able to use magic!” The one frolicking around while holding a wand is the rabbitwoman who lost one ear. Since she was purchased by Hifumi and had studies driven into her, she always carried out jobs related to accounting in the city, but after hearing about the magic training course, she participated out of interest. Even so, she succeeded at invoking magic faster than the men who are chewing their fangs in a manner of causing bleeding from their gums while their veins are popping up in their desire to be useful in battle. The surrounding beastmen had various expressions such as surprise and jealousy, but as they witnessed the moment of establishing proof that beastmen can use magic, they started to concentrate even deeper. “Oh my, you succeeded at it already?” (Zanga) Zanga, who sat so that she could watch the beastmen grasping their wands tightly, laughed with a “Hya Hya.” Even Puuse, who is coaching them, shows a smile. “The support of a wand is necessary, however I didn’t consider them to be able invoking it this fast. Those suitable for magic might be able to use spells with a lot more power.” (Puuse) Unknown whether she has heard that chat or not, there’s a little girl grasping her wand desperately while being blended into the group of rough men. It was the sheepgirl Reni. “Uu~... Fiiiire, fire, appear~” (Reni) “How about using water or wind?” (Helen) “That’s no good! I want to produce fire!” (Reni) Once she answers to Helen’s remark without facing her, she once again strives to focus her mind. “It’s fine to be diligent, but... as expected, it doesn’t mean that you can use magic just because you are able to study it.” (Helen) Helen, who is weak at such patient tasks requiring concentration, gave up rather quickly. When she looks at the woman, who’s a rabbit just like her and is able to produce water and also wind, even she has a feeling that she will be able to do it if she tries, but as nothing happened even after trying for several days, he motivation is gone after all. Although I think it’s evil towards Reni who is desperately warping her cute face, wouldn’t it be better for her to think more about strategies and tools like the ones taught by Hifumi since we will be helpless without a wand even if we can use magic with it? She sighed. Just then Reni turns around by spinning and smiles at Helen. “... I know what you are thinking about, but although it will be convenient if we can use magic, it’s not like it will be remarkable just because we are able to do so, right? It will be convenient if both can be used. It’s indispensable to have various people like those who are strong in magic, those who are strong at making traps and those who are strong at fighting directly.” (Reni) “Yea, I understand.” (Helen) Watching the the back of Reni who once again concentrated on the spell unbeknownst whether it will come out while clenching her teeth with a “Gugigi”, Helen sighed in different manner from before. “It’s a disaster! R-Reni-san is!?” (Gengu) Gengu came rushing in, while raising a cloud of dust, at the plaza where they carried out the training course. “I’m here. Gengu-san, what happened?” (Reni) “Humans came to take refugee while being chased by humans!” (Gengu) “... What’s this about?” (Helen) Helen was puzzled with her ears dangling down. “Ah, sorry ’bout this. I ended up panicking somewhat... in short, it seems like the city’s humans are under attack by other humans. A part of them is making a fuss that they wish to enter the slums.” (Gengu) Reni and Helen looked at each others faces. “Is it a quarrel between those of the same race? The ones called humans are fond of fighting after all.” (Zanga) “Anyway, I will go to the entrance of the city.” (Reni) “Take us along as well, Reni-san.” (Zanga) “Eh...” (Reni) Reni, who was stopped by Zanga, had a troubled expression. “Zanga-san, since it might turn into a battle...” (Reni) “If that happens, we will be even more useful.” (Zanga) Puuse, who stood up in order to prop up the getting-up Zanga, and the gathered elves nodded firmly. “This is already our home as well. Therefore, if we can help protecting this city, I’d like you to let us do so by all means.” (Zanga) “Elf-san’s...” (Gengu) Hearing Zanga’s words, Gengu sniffles while shedding big drops of tears. Although Reni hesitated for a little while, she looks at Zanga by lifting her face. “Please help us, Zanga-san. Let’s protect this city together.” (Reni) Zanga nodded while clasping the small, held-out hand with her wrinkled hand. “Well, it’s a good chance to have you properly observe the elven magic.” (Zanga) “Please bring a suitable amount of food for two people. Ah, we’d like to use the private room inside.” (Hifumi) Seeing Hifumi who came entering unexpectedly, the clerk, who guided them to the private room while somehow keeping their calm, sprinted to the kitchen at full speed. The share for two people mentioned by Hifumi will be similar to four portions. Even without that, since the cooking will be provided to the feudal lord who is an Earl, there’s no way for them to serve something unbecoming by any chance. Once he took a breath in relief, the corners of the lips of the clerk, who reported the details of the situation to the kitchen, raised when he imagined today’s sale.magic Hifumi, who brought Caim along, sits at the opposite side of the table. There’s no superiority or inferiority. They are facing each other just like friends. “... Is there something you want to talk about?” (Caim) “It’s fine for you to not worry about stuff like that. There’s just something I came up with.” (Hifumi) “Let’s eat first”, saying that, Hifumi eats the served soup, which had vegetables all over in it, with the spoon held in his right hand. It’s a cream-coloured potage soup with a smooth food texture and the sweet carrots and soft potatoes are delicious. “This place is fairly delicious. You can eat slowly since there are also private rooms. It think it’s fine even if you come here to eat with your civil official colleagues.” (Hifumi) “Indeed.” (Caim) At the moment Caim’s thoughts took the direction of how it was cooked and what ingredients were used while eating, Hifumi opened his mouth. “Caim, once Origa and Alyssa have returned in a short while, I will go to the capital once again. I will leave matters to you during that time.” (Hifumi) He doesn’t ask about the objective. , both, Hifumi and Caim, judge. “And, I told you before, but very soon a large battle will start. No, I plan on making sure that it happens.” (Hifumi) Caim nodded silently. “I wanted to get ready for a bit longer, but this is about mankind. I don’t know where and how I will fall over. There’s also the possibility that this place will turn into a battlefield during my absence.” (Hifumi) Caim’s expression doesn’t change due to Hifumi’s words. “What place do you think will move, Caim?” (Hifumi) “There’s no mistake that Vichy had been stirred up by Alyssa-sama’s moves. It’s likely that the internal dissension of Vichy will cause a spark by spilling over.” (Caim) Hifumi nodded delightfully. “I went to play a bit with the beastmen and demons. I’m expecting that one of them or both come this way to drop by.” (Hifumi) After that, Caim reported the state of affairs during his absence to Hifumi and Hifumi talked about political measures he thought of bit-by-bit while they slowly ate for around an hour. And, different from both’s forecast, the first change happened in Horant. After one week of Hifumi and Caim dinning together, they received a message that the king of Horant, Suprangel, died. Moreover, without waiting a few days, a part of Orsongrande’s nobles gathered and started an invasion into Horant without obtaining approval from Imeraria.

Pursang which declared its independence from Vichy which is a combination of city-states. Minoson, who became its very first head of state, was constantly driven to the wall since the time the nation was established. Although they became independent, Vichy, he considered to collapse soon, is still going strong and has even begun to interact with Fokalore which should have been hostile to them. On the other hand Pursang, which ought to have a friendly relationship, is far away from Fokalore and thus people and goods come largely delayed. Hifumi, the feudal lord of Fokalore on whom he relied, has even decided to take a long absence from his own territory, to say nothing about keeping up the friendly exchange. Looking for a plan to break the deadlock of the state of affairs in such circumstances, Minoson did his best to frequently gather new information. Even today one of the messengers, who has been sent in the direction of Fokalore, has come visiting his office. “... The territorial forces of Fokalore have been deployed at the border between Orsongrande and Vichy, you say?” (Minoson) Scraping his thoroughly thinned-out cheek, Minoson turned his look at the messenger who brought in the news. The area around his eyes is tinged with a darkish shade. “To be precise it should be “stationed” I guess? It’s not like they have taken up a position against Vichy. Their objective is to protect the territory in response to the monsters who turned ferocious, I assume.” The countenance of Minoson’s face is ghastly, but the messenger, who got used to that, reports the intelligence indifferently. “In reality ferocious human-shaped monsters have been confirmed to linger in said area and there have been victims even at the guilds of the concerned areas. It looks like the current mobilization has happened upon a request from the guild.”magic “The guild it is, huh? Usually the guild is requested to deal with monsters which can’t be managed by soldiers, however that’s a complete turn-around.” (Minoson) “Haha”, with an awkward laugh Minoson placed the documents of the investigator on his desk. “Come to think of it, if the other party comprehended such words like “commonly” or “usually”, they wouldn’t plunge Vichy into such a mess, eh...?” (Minoson) Entrusting his back to the chair, Minoson lowered his dull eyes towards the floor. He leaks a sigh. “... Create a unit of around people and have them join up with Fokalore’s feudal army. Tell them that it’s a cooperation for the sake of protecting the peace of the area and make sure they are taken along even if you use a slightly high-handed manner.” (Minoson) “Haa...” Without understanding Minoson’s aim, the messenger gave an unenthusiastic reply. “Common sense doesn’t apply to the feudal lord of Fokalore. If the other party is someone you don’t know what they will do next, let’s at least make a joint operation in order to be seen as close by Vichy, even if it’s forcibly. It will be fine if Vichy judges Pursang and Fokalore to be friendly with each other.” (Minoson) “If they let me at least use them to such an extent”, Minoson muttered in a small voice without addressing anyone in particular. Seeing his state, the male messenger felt If it was the time when Pursang was still a city-state, Minoson would probably make more plans while looking at the long term benefits. He would have likely moved in order confine something like Fokalore, that is nothing more than just one district, in his own plans. Minoson might have ended up broken by the situation of Fokalore rushing ahead by oppressing and ignoring politics and thus betraying Minoson’s expectations. “There’s no time. Depart immediately as soon as the formation has been completed.” (Minoson) “Then I shall go to convey this to the military authorities.” “Excuse me.” Exiting the room, the messenger was deeply in thought while walking towards the building where the army’s headquarters is located. “Since there’s a world of difference in war potential and practical experience between Pursang and Fokalore, even if we joined up with them, no matter what, it won’t become anything but us being treated as burden or parasites. It gives a nice ring if you speak of it as support for the sake of peace, but will the sly foxes of Vichy really accept that at its head value?” As result of the circulation of money and good weakening, the cost-of-living had risen and the closed shops, even in the streets of the shopping district, were standing out. It’s uncertain whether the small voices of the barkers are reaching the ears of the people walking down the streets stirring them up in a coercing manner. The expressions of the people are dispirited. Even their bodies and minds are exhausted by the situation in the country, which doesn’t seem to have a future, to a degree that one wouldn’t believe that we got independent just recently. “In that case, what about the army? What about the impressions? I’m currently scared of the possibility of the citizens actually starving. Shouldn’t we first do something about this one way or another..?” The man, who stopped, is lost in his thoughts while looking at the faces of the people. “... Alright, I decided.” Beginning to walk once more, the man set out to the army’s headquarters once again. However, what the man, who finally reached the headquarters before long, told to the party of the army’s top brass was something totally different from what Minoson had told him. “It’s an order from the head of the state. Organising a unit of around soldiers, head towards Orsongrande and request an audience with the queen. I will also accompany them as ambassador.” If you say that it’s difficult to deal with a party that doesn’t abide to common sense, it’s better to negotiate with a party that looks like they understand said common sense. “Let’s hurry. It’s likely that we don’t have much time left.” Whether it was the time left until the head of state discovered his lie or whether it was the time left until the collapse of Pursang; the messenger, who declared those words, didn’t know himself which of the two situations had no time left. ☺☻☺ “Yoo.” (Hifumi) “Eh? Huh...? L-Lord-sama!?” “Please have the horse take a rest. It will be fine to feed it something delicious since it kept me company on my long trip.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who suddenly appeared mounted in front of the inspection at the entrance of Fokalore, nimbly jumped off the horse, passed the reins to a baffled soldier and promptly entered the city. The soldier watched the retreating figure of the feudal lord leaving, then he looked at the expression of the horse snorting and trembling and lastly checked the face of his colleague. That soldier turned away his face right away though. “... Eh?” “Since this place’s fine, take the horse along as Lord-sama told you.” “Ah, yes!” The soldier, who is bewildered with the reins in his hand, walks towards the stable of the castle while timidly taking along the horse as told by his superior. There’s no one who knew what would be done to him if he caused an injury to the horse by some chance. As result of the horse being tired it was docile and walked slowly together with the soldier while observing the dearly missed view of the city it got used to. “Good grief, this place has been peaceful for a while. Won’t some turmoil occur once again? With Military Director Alyssa being currently absent for the suppression campaign, Lord-sama will take direct command if it comes to a battle, won’t he...?” This soldier, who was successful at the defence of the city, is currently holding the title of platoon leader as one of the longest-serving soldiers who had been picked from the capital as Fokalore’s territorial soldier. Participating in the battle of Arosel, he had been personally present when the enemy was killed and made fun of by Hifumi. “No, it’s different. That wasn’t something you’d call commanding or such. It was merely a display of slaughter.” The soldiers, who saw the platoon leader making a dry laugh, were puzzled wondering what might be so ridiculous. Shouts of joy can be heard from the direction where Hifumi went. As result of the city’s population radically increasing the ratio of people knowledgeable of Hifumi’s fighting style are very few. The platoon leader also happened to hear the stories which are told in the city’s bars with Hifumi as topic, but most of them were glorifications. “The return of Lord-sama, huh?” Although the invasion of Vichy and the expedition to Horant were difficult, those were definitely fun. Currently it’s peaceful, however being able to observe those absurd battles from close-by once again is also something I’m looking forward to. “Well then, I got to do my work diligently, eh?” , the platoon leader began to rejoice at his expectations. ☺☻☺ “Welcome home.” (Caim) “Ah, please leave me alone since I’m going to rest for a while.” (Hifumi) The surrounding staff members stare in wonder at the talk between Caim and Hifumi which is similar to a trivial everyday occurrence. They were also surprised about the feudal lord returning without prior notice, but likewise they were astonished of Caim who welcomed him as if the feudal lord had simply returned from his daily routine. With the inside and outside of the lord’s mansion being astir, the explanation of the staff members, who knew about Hifumi taking a rest within the mansion, finished with a minimum of noise, but the people, who came to know of the feudal lord’s return from the city’s soldier in front of the lord’s mansion, expressed their joy. “It became an uproar.” (Paryu) “That’s only natural. Even I understand their feeling of wanting to make a fuss.” (Doelgar) Doelgar replied to the words of Paryu, who looked at the staff members going right and left, while knitting his brows. Something like coming back after entering the wastelands alone is an unprecedented event. Even if considering Hifumi’s military gains, some of the residents have likely believed that he won’t be able to return safely from the wastelands to some extent. An unknown ratio of the others probably didn’t believe in the story that he had gone to the wastelands in itself. “Considering all that, you are quite calm, Doelgar-san.” (Paryu) “... I’m able to cool down myself if my surroundings are restless.” (Doelgar) “I see.” (Paryu) Even while those two were talking, the staff members received instructions from Caim to calm down the citizens. Given that the state of affairs will be made known tomorrow, he is apparently going around telling them so that the feudal lord can peacefully rest today. Moreover, since there will be a grand celebration of the lord’s return, he asks them to strive in their work until then. “I wonder if it’s alright for him to selfishly decide such a matter.” (Doelgar) “Isn’t it fine? Since we haven’t been told who will make the announcement, it will be a good excuse if Caim-san announces it after listening to Lord-sama’s story. Not a single word has escaped from the staff members’ mouth that Lord-sama will appear at the celebration.” (Paryu) Doelgar smiled at the words of Paryu, who picked up the contents of the staff members’ chats while writing something down in the documents, while scratching his head. “Paryu, you have become quite strong, too.” (Doelgar) “Is that so? Rather than that, please pass on the communication to not be negligent in preparing the goods particularly in regards to luxury grocery items since the city will sink in emergency demands for a while from now on.” (Paryu) “And”, Paryu looked up to Doelgar and smiled brightly, “Manpower is necessary for those preparations, right? Please create post’s steadily since there’s still much more of fresh influx to come.” (Paryu) “Moreover I haven’t sent a letter”, Paryu continued. “Letter?” (Doelgar) “To his wife-sama, that is.” (Paryu) The wife Paryu is talking about is Origa. “Why again?” (Doelgar) “It’s because I don’t want her to get angry. If I consider what will happen if his wife-sama gets to know that we stayed silent about the return of Lord-sama...” (Paryu) “Alright, let’s procure men and horses from the army. I will arrange their return so that they can take his wife-sama and come back with speed as maximum priority. I leave the letter to you!” (Doelgar) Looking at the retreating figure of Doelgar, who left running as if he was escaping from something, Paryu slipped a chuckle. “It won’t do if I don’t send one to Military Director Alyssa, too.” (Paryu) “It’s a hectic situation”, Paryu returned to her own office with a light pace. The news of Hifumi’s return spread within the city in the blink of an eye. Quite the percentage of the people in the continuously increasing population of the city doesn’t know the face of Hifumi. Only stories of him having the appearance of a young man with black pupils and hair, him using a thin sword and him splendidly slaying his enemies are circulating. The hero’s return is directly connected to the invigoration of the city. Even when it became late at night on that day, the lights within the bars all over the city stayed on. However, as there was no announcement of the feudal lord’s anticipated statement once it was the next day and then even the day after, an unresting rumour began to spread in the city. As a matter of fact, it was at that time when Hifumi finally woke up from his long sleep. Hifumi, who sat on the bed cross-legged, stared at his left hand and scratched his head with his right hand. All of the fingers of his left hand in front of him became stiff down to the second joint. It’s completely as if they have turned into solid wood.

Having an amount of gold coins, he hadn’t seen yet, being piled up in front of his eyes with a jingling sound, Swordland’s slave trader was stumped. The person, who produced that mountain of gold, was a man, who had a hood pulled over his entire face, wore a mantle and strange clothes from the beginning. Only the mouth can be seen. There’s a petite pair lining up in the back of the man, but although these two are also wearing hoods, they seem to be beastmen going by what can be seen. They are probably the man’s slaves. “What’s up? Didn’t you hear my order?” “P-Please wait! Even if you tell me that you are going to buy all of this shop’s beastmen...” “What is it? Isn’t it enough money?” “That’s not what I mean...” The person adding even more gold coins is of course Hifumi. “If that’s the case, what do you mean?” (Hifumi) “Although they might be called slaves, there are various ones. I will also be troubled by getting complaints afterwards, if you don’t choose them properly. There are even those, you can’t use for manual labour due them being sold as disposable waste by the castle due to their wounds...” “I don’t care.” (Hifumi) “Hah?” “I don’t give a damn whether they have injuries or other problems. Hurry up and get them ready since I will buy the entire bunch.” (Hifumi) Due to the far too pushy way of talking, the slave trader brought out more than slaves from within the store while grumbling 「Don’t come complaining to me afterwards」. All of those, who were brought out, were standing with an absent-minded facial expression having their hands and feet bound with chains. As the slave dealer had said, there are some, missing legs and arms, mixed in-between and there are also those, who are showing an exhausted state to the degree of barely walking being supported by other slaves. “These are all I have.” “Fine, fine. Well then, everyone follow me.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who tries to hurry up and go outside having finished his business, was stopped by the slave trader in panic. “No, if you aren’t registered in the slave tattoo...” “Ah, that, huh?” (Hifumi) Hifumi recalled the situation at the time he purchased Origa and Kasha. He admired magic being something mysterious at that time, however having gotten used to life over here, he bitterly smiles to himself due to the fact of having completely accepted the existence of magic. “There’s no particular need for that.” (Hifumi) “B-But, customer, if you don’t register in the slave crest, you won’t be able to stop the slaves opposing you.” “There are many precedents of owners being killed by their slaves as well”, the slave trader says while getting worked up, but Hifumi, stopping him with his right hand, has a nonchalant air. “It will be very welcome, if they come assassinating me while I’m asleep or launch a surprise attack. If there isn’t at least this much tension, there won’t be an actual feeling of being alive either. If I get killed by these guys, that will only mean that this was my limit.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who turned around to the dumbfounded beastmen, checked the faces of all of them. “You heard it. If you are up to it, it will be fine for you to aim at my life any time. But...” (Hifumi) Hifumi draws the katana and mutters, while ecstatically gazing at the beautiful hamon, “I will kill you, if you attack me with a half-hearted resolution. I will kill you, if you do it with a naive plan. I will kill you, if you do it half-assedly.” (Hifumi) The light being reflected by the blade appeared to shine on Hifumi’s left eye. “In short, you will die, if you fail. Do remember only that.” (Hifumi) Everyone gulped and nodded weakly. “Alright. Let’s go then?” (Hifumi) “Thank you very much.” At the end of the line of slaves leaving the slave trader’s shop to follow Hifumi, Reni, who waited silently, smiled at the slave trader. “A-Ah...” “Let’s go, Reni” Leaving behind the bewildered slave trader, for whom it was the first time to have a beastman’s smile turned upon him, Reni left the store with Helen leading her by the hand. ☺☻☺ The place, the slaves were brought to, was the high-class inn lodging Hifumi’s group. Without showing absolutely any manner of restraint or such, the beastmen are brought along and step into the building. Even the employees’ forced smiles were unreasonable by now. “J-Just a second, guest-sama!” “That’s right, they are guest-sama’s. Please prepare rooms for these guys. Also hot baths in order to wash their bodies. Since we will naturally go to the dining room to eat our meals, prepare plenty of food just like yesterday, please.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who handed over a large amount of money saying “It’s the inn fee”, passed further money to a single employee and told them to go buy a plenty amount of clothes and footwear for the slaves. “Although I don’t have to tell you, but treat them properly. They are guests, who properly paid the money. And, you guys as well.” (Hifumi) He turns his look towards the beastmen, he brought along. Are they scared of Hifumi? Without matching his look, they cast their eyes down with terror in their faces. “Violence and abusive language is absolutely forbidden. Wash your bodies obediently, wear your clothes and grab your meal. And then go sleep for today. There are plenty of things we will do, but all of those can wait until tomorrow.” (Hifumi) “Hey, wait!” (Helen) Helen chased after Hifumi, who quickly heads towards his room upstairs, in a rush. Reni, trying to follow after Hifumi and Reni, stops, turns in the direction of the slaves and takes off the hood. Reni, who lightly shook her soft, white hair and the grown, twirled horns, smiles sweetly. “It will be alright. I was taught various things after I met Hifumi-san. I’m sure it was difficult for you until now, but undoubtedly it will be fun from now on.” (Reni) “A-Are you a slave of that human? Considering that, umm...” What Reni is wearing is the white one-piece, Hifumi bought for her. “Following Hifumi-san, whom I met in the wastelands, I’m studying humans. And, for the sake of playing something called “Take the nation”?, we picked up all of you since it seems to be the type of game, which is more fun with many companions.” (Reni) “Let’s do it! Surely it will be fun”, Reni says laughing. The slaves, in a state of not comprehending, washed their bodies in turns following the instructions of the employees and changed into the brand new clothes. It may be because of the large number of people, but the inn is in a state of being close to booked out. Even the dining room has almost all seats taken by beastmen. The dishes, being carried over, vanish one after the other. “It’s delicious...” Once one of the slaves showed their feelings by murmuring just those few words, the slaves, separated at the tables all over, raised their voices to a “Delicious, it’s delicious” as if in concord and not few were shedding tears. Having obtained a decent meal after a long while and it even being different from the food in the wastelands, which was at best meat roasted to some degree, the slaves tasted intricately and variously seasoned dishes and digested being alive for the first time. Eventually the slaves approach Hifumi’s seat in turns to express their gratitude with a “Please treat me well” and bowing their head. . Hifumi, who only ordered them to wash their bodies because he wanted to eat a meal with that filthy-smelling lot, has a bitter expression. “... How irritating.” (Hifumi) Reni, being with him, smiles at the griping Hifumi. “But, all of them are happy.” (Reni) “Oh well. I can probably tell because I knew of it as well, but once you eat food made by humans, you will find it strange that you were satisfied with the meat you ate up until now.” (Helen) “Though, rather than eating something cut up, I like to sink my teeth into a fruit”, Helen laughs, too. Gradually it reaches the point that laughter can be heard in the dining room. With the stimulus from their fellow slaves, even different races talk together about their hardships and similar with a smile. Reni called out to Hifumi, who frowned due to it having become noisy. “Is this “Take the nation”? Everyone’s enjoying it, right? It’s as Hifumi-san said.” (Reni) Looking at Reni facing him with a pure smile, Hifumi smiled and said “That’s right.” “It will probably be alright, even if this is just the first step of taking the nation with such kind of nation being the target. Let me teach you guys the absolutely magnificent concept of “Freedom and Equality.” If you are able to comprehend it, you beastmen will likely be able to create delicious dishes and sturdy homes without having to rely on humans.” (Hifumi) “Is that so!? Not only is “Take the nation” this much fun, but it will even become such an amazing thing!” (Reni) “Yea~” (Hifumi) At the side of Reni, who accepts his words upfront, Helen is looking at Hifumi with eyes full of doubt, but since she isn’t able to properly understand it either, she doesn’t go as far as objecting him. Noticing the matter Hifumi is talking about, the beastmen turn silent and prick their ears to listen attentively. “But you know, to get this far, your cooperation will be necessary as well.” (Hifumi) “I, I will do my best! I want our fathers to eat something delicious, too!” (Reni) “Well, if it’s for such reason, I wonder whether you know...” (Hifumi) A single dog beastman stood up and got down on both his knees facing Hifumi’s seat. “I’m a dog beastman called Gengu ~ssu. I was greatly impressed by master’s compassionate story ~ssu. Freedom and equality, aren’t those nice words? I will use all my strength to help with what master is trying to accomplish ~ssu.” (Gengu) The other beastmen also swarmed to Hifumi one after the other due to Gengu, who made such drama-like speech. They told him that they will do whatever they can as well. “I got it, I got it.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who shrank back from the beastmen with their excessive and sweltering enthusiasm, has everyone shut up by telling them “Calm down for a moment.” “Doing your best or whatever, you guys are slaves though. Settle down since I will prepare a bed and food for you, if you properly do the things that have to be done.” (Hifumi) Hifumi tells Reni and Helen to stand up. Once the two do as told, the gazes of the beastmen slaves focus on them. “The sheep type is Reni and the rabbit type is Helen.” (Hifumi) “Now then, I want you guys to do something very, very fun”, is what Hifumi told everyone with a well-carrying voice. “I plan to make these two the rulers of this country. Being their vassals, you guys will attempt to take this country. How far will the beastmen be able to hold out? I want you to show me.” (Hifumi) Listening until Hifumi’s final comment “Don’t worry. I will teach you the method”, the dining room abruptly falls into chaos with some roaring with motivation, laughter or astonishment. “W-W-Wait a moment! If you say ruler, isn’t that the human country’s boss? It isn’t that simple for us beastmen to do that!” (Helen) “H-Helen, what do we do...?” (Reni) Ignoring the bewildered pair, Hifumi considered the movements from here on out. “I want a little bit more numbers.” (Hifumi) “If that’s the case, there’s a great place for that ~ssu.” (Gengu) The dogman Gengu, who caught Hifumi’s murmur, got close to Hifumi while sliding. “In the outskirts of this city there’s a place commonly referred to as slums ~ssu. There’s a rumour that there are quite a few beastmen, who were thrown away by the humans, there ~ssu.” (Gengu) “Slums? I see.” (Hifumi) “But, as it seems that many of them are injured as well, it’s uncertain whether they will be usable or not...” (Gengu) While looking at Gengu, Hifumi spinned around a suntetsu in his hand and thrust it in front of Gengu’s eyeball within an instant. Gengu had confidence in his eyesight, but he was shocked due to his inability to follow that motion. “If they have at least a single hand, they will also be able to kill a person depending on the way of doing it. Including you guys as well, the problem is that it’s “unknown” to you. After I teach you that, I will have you execute it for your dear life.” (Hifumi) “I’m no match for you”, Gengu prostrated himself in front of Hifumi once again. (Now then, with this I gathered the pieces, huh? The troublesome aspect of the jindori game is that I won’t be able to play it by myself.) It will be fine if the opponent will eagerly fight to the utmost, at least in the future, though Salgu failed to convince the beastmen of the slum, but that didn’t mean that he had already given up.magic won’t they also change their way of thinking if our companions increase and if they get to know that it’s possible to oppose the humans Aiming to act at night, he confirms the houses and stores of many humans. He creeped into the places where the owners had fallen asleep, in particular those which are employing beastmen slaves, and took out the beastmen slaves. With the first night not going well, on the second night it’s one, on the third it’s four and on the fourth night it is five beastmen. The numbers taken out are increasing well. Shattering the poor quality chains, he gives them their freedom. He leads the released slaves to the slums in order to take them all to the wastelands in one go. Even so, Salgu’s plan failed at an unexpected place. “I don’t want to return to the wastelands.” A single slave refused the escape and opted to remain in the slums. “Why? Don’t you miss the freedom?” (Salgu) “Did you know how difficult that freedom is? I felt angry in the beginning to have been bought by humans. But I don’t have to even worry about aiming for a life different from the wastelands in the city. It’s a life with no hardships and food being prepared for you, too.” Salgu was shocked hearing this argument. Afterwards, some people of those, he planned to free, returned to the human houses, they had originally been at, and the remaining ones stayed in the slums. Not a single one of them told him that they wanted to return to the wastelands. “What’s this about!? We survived by hunting in the wastelands! We freely lived in the wastelands, that are spreading in all directions!” (Salgu) After getting impatient as it’s not going well, Salgu’s words are gradually becoming rude. “Well, that’s for someone as strong as you are. Young tiger beastmen and cunning wildlife people might not have been scared. But, we were already fed up with surviving in fright at a place, which is dangerous to our lives.” The dog beastman, who called out to him previously as well, looked at Salgu and laughed. “Didn’t I tell you? He is a reckless guy. Without looking at reality, he forces his own egoistical justice onto others. It’s simply annoying.” “Get out of the slums”, is what the cold-hearted dog beastmen told him and the other beastmen also nodded in order to agree with his opinion. “Such a... damn!” (Salgu) Once Salgu gives the beastmen of the slums a glance, he leaves the slums at a quick pace. “Why did something like this happen...? It’s the humans, eh? The beastmen were corrupted by humans and lost their freedom...?” (Salgu) In the eyes of Salgu, who has been clenching his fists to the degree of blood coming out, the colour of insanity definitely began to manifest itself.

Because Hifumi’s expeditionary force had to replenish their supplies at Fokalore, they used the time to spend a night there. Deep in the night a group of about people secretly left the city. It was the third unit led by Alyssa. For the sake of an advance mission, they went ahead and moved towards the national border. “So, the reason is to kill the careless border company under cover of the night.” (Hifumi) For some reason the commander of the forces, Hifumi, was running as vanguard ahead of the third unit. “I think usually you would wait with starting until both sides gathered their troops, but ...” (Alyssa) Moreover, three rows side-by-side consisting of the troops of the third unit came after them. “Discard the usual way of thinking. It’s not like we have to particularly watch out for some promise. No matter what you do while at war, the victorious side is justified. Don’t forget that the losing side has to yield everything to the winner.” (Hifumi) “I-I’m sorry ...” (Alyssa) Aiming to suppress any sound, all of them were walking. Hifumi wore something similar to order-made zouri produced in this world as footwear. For all of the others he came up with the ingenious idea to attach cotton to the shoe sole of their boots in order to restrain the sound of foot steps. Even so, although the foot steps of the troops were audible in their own way, Hifumi’s practically couldn’t be heard. “Everybody, listen.” (Hifumi) Inserting a break during the walking, they had only half of the way left before arriving at the national border as dawn was closing in. “After this we will extinguish Vichy’s war potential until dawn breaks. Before you are noticed by the enemy, kill them swiftly and in a reliable way. Everybody, take out your knives.” (Hifumi) The backhand grip of the knives was a custom made article and had a single edge which was new to this world. “Just as you were taught. Predict the visual field of your opponent. Only aim at the throat. Don’t make any sound. Don’t raise your voice.” (Hifumi) While speaking Hifumi raised for each point a finger. Everyone nodded in silence. “You were told the strategy before departure, there won’t be any changes. Go!” (Hifumi) Without using any light, they vanished in turn, soldiers each, in the direction of the border. “I am off.” (Hifumi) After making sure everyone left, Hifumi took Alyssa and went towards the border. Different from the other troops, he boldly charged in from the front. At the border fortress, there was a pathway going through on the Orsongrande’s side. Two soldiers were standing guard. The shining of the flickering and swaying torchlight could be seen. There was no particular movement on the other side. The previously passing troops obviously had crossed the border without being noticed. “Good work.” (Hifumi) When they were suddenly greeted, they couldn’t help it but turn around. In front of their eyes, Alyssa led by Hifumi appeared without holding any kind of light source. “In the dead of the night ... ?” (Soldier A) “Maa, there are some circumstances.” (Hifumi) It was a new document specifying him to be treated as viscount. “This is ... ! Excuse our impoliteness!” (Soldier A) Straightening up his back, the soldier apologized. Hifumi lightly waved his hands in response. “Don’t mind it. By the way, it looks like there is only two of you here, however, is it the same over there too?” (Hifumi) Hifumi rose his finger pointing at the side of Vichy’s on the other side of the passage through the fortress. “Huh? Yes, I heard that it is the custom for both countries to place a couple of guards at night-time.” (Soldier A, formal tone) Given that the border was basically closed during the night, apparently the number of soldiers stationed was at its minimum. “Is that so? Alyssa, I will take both of them down.” (Hifumi) “Understood” (Alyssa) Being doubtful of Hifumi’s and Alyssa’s conversation, the soldiers gave each other a sidelong glance. Steadily they were approaching Vichy’s side. Before anyone noticed, there was a katana hanging on Hifumi’s waist. “N? At such late time, who is it?” (Vichy Soldier A) When the Vichy soldier turned around, his head was separated from his torso. “If asked by anyone, currently I am an invader.” (Hifumi) Swinging the katana before the other soldier was able to detect the drawing, he was slain before he was able to show any kind of reaction. The soldiers, who Hifumi’s group conversed with in the back of the passage just now, watched with a shocked facial expression. Looking back, Hifumi stored the katana while laughing. “From this moment on the war has started. Convey this to everyone trying to cross the border. They should be aware that they will be dragged into it and die, too.” (Hifumi) While Hifumi was violating the national border at leisure, the soldiers in the barracks on Vichy’s side were killed silently. The three soldiers patrolling the surrounding of the buildings had their throats sliced open and were abandoned just like that. The remaining soldiers died never waking up from their slumber. At dawn, when the main part of the expeditionary force arrived at the border, everything was finished. Hifumi was leaning with his back on the border fortress and waited for them. ( Seeing Hifumi’s figure, Origa descended from the carriage and came over in a rush. “Master! There are no particular problems with the main body of the expeditionary force to report!” (Origa) “Understood. Well then, prepare for the military maneuvers on the Vichy’s side of the border using the barracks as base. I will leave after eating lunch.” (Hifumi) Origa hurried back to her original position among the troops. Together with Kasha, they issued instructions to cross the border. “Now then ... I should take a nap, too, huh?” (Hifumi) However, different from the soldiers, it wasn’t due to the murdering a while ago, but due to the part of the coming battles. Even if his opponent didn’t move as he wanted, in that case he expected it to become interesting and thus came up with a plan that was as simple as possible. As he was thinking about such things, Pajou approached. “I wondered whether you couldn’t give me some information on the progress of the war.” (Pajou) “The soldiers of Vichy who were at the border, several tens of them, died. Our side incurred no damage.” (Hifumi) Hifumi answered her question smoothly as she was holding writing materials in her hands. “I heard they were assaulted at the place they slept, but ...” (Pajou) “That’s the reason why I chose a night attack. Quite obviously.” (Hifumi) Likely, in the future, I think there will be much more happening in this war that exceeds my own comprehension. “... I understand. I will also take a small break.” (Pajou) It all started in the city near the border, Arosel, with the incident of a single young man visiting the mansion of the city’s representative on the last day. “Is the representative of this city currently in?” (-) Even under normal circumstances, for the sake of dealing with the document arriving from Orsongrande compelling them to allegiance, it was a strenuous effort to prepare the defense and consider the counter-measurements. “Do you have an appointment?” (Servant) , the servant arbitrarily decided for herself exposing her displeasure in her words as well. “Appointment, huh? I sent a letter a few days ago.” (-) “A letter, huh?” (Servant) In this world where there were monsters to consider in regards to the transportation network, the sending of letters was limited to only prosperous figures. “Ah, I asked whether he would become our companion and fight alongside us in the letter. I came here to listen to the reply to that.” (-) Taking it out from his breast pocket, he showed a document to her. It was unmistakably an officially issued passport from Orsongrande declaring the man in front of her as an Viscount. “Pl-Please wait a moment, Your Excellency.” (Servant) Due to the totally unforeseen rank of the visitor, the servant shrieked with a shrill and nervous voice while rushing towards the office of the representative. No matter on what kind of reply he would decide, towards a noble, who didn’t take along anyone and came here by himself, the representative judged him to not be hostile and instructed that he should be handled courteously for starters. In the meanwhile it was confirmed by a thin shaped servant from a distance, that Hifumi was the person, who had kidnapped the previous city representative Ortis and strangled him until fainting in order to obtain information out of him. Somehow or other Hifumi was invited to the reception room and sat down on the opposite side of a man called Kyulson, who immediately was inaugurated as city representative after Ortis passed away. Behind Kyulson was standing the female servant who had dealt with Hifumi at the beginning. “I have heard a little bit of rumor about Hifumi-sama already ...” (Kyulson) “I don’t need any roundabout greetings. First, let’s hear your answer. Then we can proceed the conversation from there.” (Hifumi) Although he wasn’t a noble in Vichy, he had often negotiated with nobles coming from foreign countries, including Orsongrande, in the past. Yet he didn’t meet such a noble until now. Judging Hifumi’s youth, Kiyulson concluded him to be a noble rushing for results due to his scarce experience. “I am very sorry. Related to the document delivered from Orsongrande, we unfortunately weren’t able to carefully examine it yet. Please wait for the reply until then.” (Kyulson) Towards the harmless and inoffensive reply of not committing himself in any way while at the same time asking him to temporarily return until Kyulson could come up with his answer, Hifumi laughed scornfully. “Fu, the local administration here takes it obviously quite easy. The representative was kidnapped and even though questioned whether they want to resist their ruin or join the other side, they weren’t able to come up with a decision on how to deal with it within a few days either.” (Hifumi) “... I can’t believe this was said by the criminal himself, honestly ... Hey youngster, I think you should behave more modestly even if you are a noble. You do realize that it would be fine to arrest you as a criminal here, right? Since I will close my eyes towards the amount of rudeness you showed here, go back now.” (Kyulson) Dealing with Hifumi, Kyulson’s look and tone changed. “I understand that you want to rush the results due to your youth, but you are 10 years too early to stick your nose into the exchanges between nations. In the first place, the documents from Orsongrande are an aberrant threatening letter. Meddling in our national politics just because of some brat who managed to somehow get some military gains due to committing crimes, is this document supposed to be a joke? Looking down on our government will sooner or later cause you a painful experience.” (Kyulson) “I see, in other words you don’t intend to accept our demands.” (Hifumi) “Of course not. Do you think that Orsongrande has the necessary military forces to invade into Vichy? Just considering the financial clout to fund the military forces, there is no way for Orsongrande to win a war in a direct confrontation. That already applies to only this city. We have plenty of defensive forces to deploy.” (Kyulson Apparently Kyulson had judged Ortis to be the only incompetent person. He didn’t seem to acknowledge the value of Hifumi’s ability overly much either. Pondering about this, Hifumi sighed while leaning back on his chair and staring at the ceiling. “I see that you haven’t thought about it carefully. Do you know why I came here by myself? Did you believe that I am a fool who trusts too much in his own strength? Did you make light of me as a idiot that wouldn’t consider to be attacked?” (Hifumi) “... What are you talking about?” (Kiyulson) “I wonder which of us two isn’t taking the exchange between nations seriously. Every last of you, why do you conclude your opponent would attack in an easily understandable way from the front?” (Hifumi) While talking the faint smile floating upon Hifumi’s face slowly stiffened due to his anger. “You said you are called Kyulson. Didn’t you consider the possibility of me killing you here? For example, did you think of the possibility of my subordinates secretly infiltrating and raiding the soldier posts in each place? Supposing that you lose all your pawns before the actual fighting begins, what will you do?” (Hifumi) “I-Im-Impossible ... But you haven’t heard my reply yet!” (Kyulson) Kyulson’s face was soaked all over in sweat. He was nervous and his back became unsteady. “This document itself was a plan to restrain your statesmen. You didn’t notice until the end, huh? Although trust is important, going this far is like a splendid flower field.2” (Hifumi) While talking, he stood up and took out the katana in a very natural behaviour and then thrust it. “! ... !?” (Kyulson) Watching him painfully breathing and scattering bloody vomit while thrashing about in agony on the ground, the female servant was dumbfounded. Falling on her bottom without grasping the reason for it, she just wept. “Your representative will die very soon, what will you do?” (Hifumi) “Pl-Please don’t kill me ... pl-please ... I-I don’t want to die yet ...” (Servant) Grovelling on the ground as the servant begged for her life, Hifumi’s ardor was dampened and he returned his katana into its scabbard as he watched Kyulson’s state, who had died unnoticed. “If you choose to not fight, announce it immediately in the entire city. This city has been annexed into Orsongrande from today onward.” (Hifumi) Going to the extent of declaring this much, incidentally several troops of the third unit burst into the reception room. “Viscount, are you fine?” (Trooper A) “Obviously. How did it go on your side?” (Hifumi) “The disposal of all soldier posts has been completed without any problems, Sir!” (Trooper B) While Hifumi had gone to the meeting with the representative, Alyssa, after gathering information on the soldiers posts, had secretly infiltrated the city alongside the third unit, which had dispersed in the vicinity. They assaulted the soldier posts almost simultaneously. The female servant, who still didn’t manage to get up, wore a face of disbelief listening to the contents of the talk. “You heard it.” (Hifumi) “The possibility of using soldiers has vanished. Relay this news to the citizens with only the staff of this mansion. Do it right away. Tell anyone who wants to complain, to come here. So I can kill them.” (Hifumi) Although being hesitant, she quickly moved upon hearing Hifumi’s words. To leave the room, the servant crawled on the floor in order to spread the information about the soldiers of the enemy nation while looking pathetic at the same time. “What about the first and second unit?” (Hifumi) “As planned, they are blockading all of the city’s exits, Sir.” (Trooper A) “Good. I will go check the situation. 2 teams will remain here. In case the servants show unusual movements, kill them.” (Hifumi) “Yes, Sir!” (Troopers) Taking the other troops along, Hifumi left the mansion in high spirits. In this way, they had performed the world’s first one-sided invasion. The history of Arosel as small-scale city-state ended and it changed into a simple district city. This truth wasn’t only circulated amongst the surrounding cities but also reached the central government in no time. It became a fact that Orsongrande really intended to go to war with Vichy.

“With such long talks, I’ve become hungry.” (Hifumi) Listening to Hifumi grumbling “In the end I missed out on eating something at the castle”, Vepar pointed in the direction of the bustling city. “Over there’s a delicious restaurant. Since you can get there private rooms which are intended for people like me, who are earning adequate money, we will be able to eat some food at ease there. My stomach’s empty as well. Let me treat you!” (Vepar) “Well, then I will take you up on that.” (Hifumi) At the restaurant he entered after following Vepar’s lead they were shown into a big private room located furthest inside as she was well known or rather as could be expected. Vepar, who sat down right next to Hifumi in a casual manner even though there are ten seats in the private room, confirmed whether there was anything he didn’t like and quickly ordered several dishes he had never heard of. “Is this kind of order fine with you, I wonder?” (Vepar) “Even if I hear about the details and portions, I won’t know them anyway.” (Vepar) “Well, I guess that’s true as well. It’s fine for you to get a second serving if it’s not enough.” (Vepar) Once the waiter left the room, Vepar turned her look at Hifumi who is next to her. “Why did you think of getting the humans involved in the fight between demons and elves?” (Vepar) “Eh?” (Vepar) is my goal. My target is to drag this entire world into wars.” (Hifumi) As water was carried in before the meals, he is able to moisten his mouth lightly. “This world’s people should clash with each other far more desperately. They should give and take lives far more earnestly. That’s what I believe. Thus I’m moving in order to make that happen.” (Hifumi) Once Hifumi’s words ended, silence protruded the private room for a while. “T-That means, you want to destroy this world?” (Vepar) Hifumi returned a smile in response to Vepar who asked that timidly. “That’s not it either. Wars will make everybody get “serious.” For the sake of fighting. For the sake of surviving. For the sake of regaining. Revenge and self-preservation, ambitions and restoration... there are many aspects, but probably everyone will become serious about it. Only that will allow this world to advance.” (Hifumi) “It’s not like I’m saying it, but... weren’t you told that your head’s messed up?” (Vepar) “Not really.” (Hifumi) With the sound of knocking resounding, the waiter enters the room and lines up one dish after the other. The waiter cuts up a lump of meat, which was covered by some sauce and has steam rising from it, with a swoosh and places the slices in front of Hifumi and Vepar. Something which was roasted with salad and some paste product gets lined up on top of the table making it cramped. “Ooh, it looks quite appetizing.” (Hifumi) Picking up a knife and fork, Hifumi immediately stuffed his cheeks with meat. The taste of the sweet and sour sauce and the deeply flavoured oil mixes and spreads within his mouth. The meat was tough but Hifumi stuffed it into his mouth with gusto without minding that. “It’s a wonderful manner of eating.” (Vepar) While saying that, Vepar also eats small-cut pieces of meat enjoying its deliciousness. “It’s a nice restaurant. The taste and the quantity are satisfactory.” (Hifumi) Hifumi called out to the waiter who brought drinks once they had eaten around half of the dishes on top of the table. “Eh? T-Thank you very much.” The waiter was surprised for an instant due to being addressed by a human, but even while being bewildered, he returned his gratitude to the compliment which was given with a thin smile. “You are unrelated to demons and humans after all. With only talks like spreading wars, I wondered whether you would be hated by humans, but...” (Vepar) “For humans and demons it’s probably only natural to have a favourable impression of a guy if he puts in earnest efforts into his own role.” (Hifumi) He wipes his mouth in one go with the clothes which were provided in a stack. “I like fellows who put in great effort into improving somehow, unrelated whether they are my enemies or allies. The folks in my territory and my wife are putting in great efforts to improve the society in the country and not just in the territory.” (Hifumi) “Oh, you are married. I wonder whether it’s fine to have dinner in such place then?” (Vepar) Hifumi looked with serious eyes at Vepar due to her teasing words. “They stir the world. I only give instructions without moving myself. Besides, it’s not necessary for me to yield the fun parts to someone else like that.” (Hifumi) He drank up the pseudo-coffee. “If I were the one to move, there would be too many fellows who would scheme unnecessary things. Just like that child king.” (Hifumi) “... Agathion-sama is called the smartest king within the successive generations? The matter of dealing with the elven forest had been decided for a long time, this late in the game... no way, is it possible that you will do something?” (Vepar) Hifumi sneers at Vepar who says “Impossible, you talked in such friendly way with him.” “The ones called statesmen fuss over “titles.” If they have those, the people will follow them... is what they are believing. If it’s for a just cause, they will be called resolute and not running wild albeit they are doing something daring.” (Hifumi) “A just cause?” (Vepar) “For example, since there was evidence that the humans and elves were collaborating and trying to destroy the demon race, he will make a move in order to avenge the long-lasting grudge, or such.” (Hifumi) “If the barrier falls, he will sell it as outcome of his own efforts and explain it as first step of him destroying the humans and elves”, Hifumi explains. “Evidence, you say...” (Vepar) “If there’s a corpse of a human in the demon’s city which should be isolated, that’ll be plenty, I think?” (Hifumi) Even Vepar grasps that Hifumi is the candidate for that corpse. Since even demons, who are strong at disguising themselves, return to their original forms once they die, there will be plenty persuasive power if it’s an obvious corpse. The corpse candidate laughs. “Well, I wonder what that smart king or whatever will do?” (Hifumi) Hifumi’s glance asks Vepar And what will you do at that time? ☺☻☺ Although there are fluctuations due to things like marriages and such in the unit, where women who are good at magic play a central role, led by Vepar, it’s a group of the best demonic magicians with around members in it.magic With the adjoining combat-orientated unit led by Beleth being centred around men, the antagonism triggered by their bipolar dispositions has been continuing from long before Vepar was inaugurated as captain. However, being sick of that sweltering structure, Vepar basically made sure to not oppose Beleth and his subordinates. She is always leaking to the surroundings that it’s bothersome to do so. “Unh~...” (Vepar) Vepar’s working place is close to the city’s outer wall. Beleth’ working place is in the completely opposite direction with the castle being between them. Vepar, who was chased out after she tried to have a deep talk with Hifumi in the same room once she led him to the inn, quietly sat at her own desk after having reported to the castle. “Just when I pondered whether you are doing your work properly for a change... you have abandoned processing the documents. What are you worried about?” The one who called out to her had approximately the same stature as Vepar, but compared to Vepar’s voluptuous body, she was a young woman with a slender build. On top of her vividly green one piece she is wearing a grey mantle with a hood attached. Her indigo blue, sleepy eyes are staring indifferently at Vepar who is prostrating on the desk. “Please do you work seriously once in a while. With most of the documents carrying my signature recently, there are rumours swirling around that there had been a change in commanding officers.” “Bennia, take my place if you want to. It’s not like I particularly like such tiresome title.” (Vepar) “Since you were recommended, put in some effort to show deference to those people who referred you.” (Bennia) The woman called Bennia flatly retorted to Vepar who is looking at her bitterly. “... What will you do if there’s battle between fellow comrades within this city, Bennia?” (Vepar) “What are you talking about all of a sudden? Do you plan to cause a rebellion?” (Bennia) “Just tell me.” (Vepar) Bennia felt something due to Vepar having a serious look, unlike before. She clears her throat once. “Although you lack sincerity, you won’t do something mistaken, Captain, is what I believe. If you side with either party, me and the other unit members will follow you, Captain.” (Bennia) “... That is, even if you will have to kill you own comrades?” (Vepar) “There will be plenty of reason to do so, I believe.” (Bennia) “Even so, it’s a very unsettling question”, Bennia knitted her eyebrows. “Please tell me what you are planning to do.” (Bennia) “There’s a human in this city, but... stories appeared that Agathion-sama might use him as sacrifice for the war.” (Vepar) With a sigh blended in Vepar talked about the situation at the time she reported to the castle. Hearing that story, Bennia tilts her head to the side. “It’s strange. For that king-sama to talk about something vague like “might” and not an order.” (Bennia) The order always descends from the top. Even if he consults with someone, at the most the decision changes in around two to three aspects with the other party being Phegor. That was the impression which all of the demons’ soldier held of their king. Of course none of them think that it’s wrong. “It looks like he wanted to see my reaction. Totally out of character my back ended up sweating.” (Vepar) “Why such... no way, did you fall in love with that human?” (Bennia) “Mm~ ... though I didn’t intend to. I won’t deny that I was charmed by him. However, that’s not the reason.” (Vepar) Drinking the coffee made by Bennia, Vepar exhales a hot breath. “The human... he is called Hifumi. It looks like his attitude doesn’t differ towards demons and humans, you know. Though it’s not like I have seen it actually in front of my eyes. But he says that the demons, elves, humans and beastmen should fight for their lives to improve this world. Good grief, it’s crazy, isn’t it?” (Vepar) While her talking became gradually rapid, Vepar giggled. Even Bennia can’t tell from her expression whether it was tinged with amazement or anxiety. “You want to betray the king for such a madman, you say?” (Bennia) “It’s not that I want to betray him. However, I believe that it’s a mistake to simply kill him. Though I think that we can’t avoid fighting with the elves, I wondered whether it isn’t possible to get along with him and the people under his influence without having to fight them.” (Vepar) “War depends on the people furthering it, but something like the possibility of war eventually becoming a way to decrease the enemies is just stupid”, Vepar shook her head. “Did you tell the king that?” (Bennia) “There’s no way I can say that to him.” (Vepar) At the time she reported to the king, his aide, Phegor, was standing next to him. He glared at Vepar who tried to open her mouth regarding the king’s suggestion. “I’m not afraid of demotions and getting fired. However, if I was recognised as enemy of the king by Phegor, it wouldn’t end with me simply loosing my life.” (Vepar) “So?” (Bennia) “There might be no other choice but get along with and approach Hifumi indirectly. It seems that Beleth sees him as his enemy as well. I will try to do my best by myself. If I can avoid unnecessary fighting, the number of deaths will decrease.” (Vepar) Bennia bowed her head due to Vepar standing up and telling her that she is going home. “Please order us as you like without holding back. We are the king’s retainers, but the words that we will follow your judgement are no lies, captain.” (Bennia) “I see. Thanks.” (Vepar) Of course Vepar doesn’t know about her expression hidden within the mantle’s hood at the time she said “Good Night” and left. And also not about Bennia heading towards the castle afterwards. Zanga’s journey was far more lively and successful than she assumed at first. Not just Puuse and Shiku, people like those who were usually close to Zanga and those who were good at magic and who engaged in the maintenance of the barrier; many people are advancing through the forest in a line. They have already left the forest which is next to the elves’ village. The elves were very excited by the things like the horizon and the wastelands which entered their visions once the trees became sparse. “Zanga-sama.” “What?” (Zanga) Zanga is making steady progress although she is supported by her wand. Puuse, who is burdened with large luggages, places her hand on Zanga’s back and suddenly turned her voice at Zanga. “I get that we have to leave the forest, but where do you plan to go?” (Puuse) “Ah, which reminds me, at the time of talking about that you weren’t there due to the preparations.” (Zanga) “Sorry”, Zanga talked while recalling the details she told the villagers. “I thought of trying to go to “that city where beastmen and humans work together” I was told by that human, no, by Hifumi. If they were able to make a city like that, they might let in elves as well, right?” (Zanga) Puuse inclined her head to the side due to Zanga laughing with a “Hya hya.” “Will it go that easily?” (Puuse) Zanga took out something from the back of the mantle she wore. “... A letter, is it?” (Puuse) “Well, it looks like a letter of introduction, I guess. It seems that Hifumi-san changed the structure of that city. I guess you can’t call it definite, but don’t you think that a little bit of hope has appeared?” (Zanga) “I-I guess so... oh?” (Puuse) Since Puuse had truly difficulty to deal with Hifumi, she became worried instead when she was told that it was a city changed by him. That Puuse discovered someone being there on the road ahead. She gives quick instructions to her comrades behind her with hand signals. According to the arrangements, all of them slowly came to a halt with simple hand gestures. “What happened?” (Zanga) “It looks like someone is ahead in front of the road. It’s around people.” (Puuse) “I will go make sure”, leaving the heavy luggages behind, Puuse slowly approaches the figures. At the moment she got close enough to identify them, she sees two of them standing up and discussing something. The other one stays sitting. “You are, humans! ... Aren’t you? You are somehow different...” “B-Beastmen...” (Puuse) Realizing that it’s beastmen looking this way with their heads tilted to the side, Puuse faltered for just a moment, but once she became aware that all three of them are children, she became concerned in reverse. “We are elves. You are, tiger beastmen and a bear beastman.” (Puuse) “Elves, it’s the first time...” (Olra) The beargirl, who is dumbfounded, was Olra, the daughter of Salgu who was killed by Hifumi, but she still doesn’t know that her father had already been killed. “I’m the elf, Puuse. All of us are on a journey. So, what are you doing at such place with just you children?” (Puuse) “Ah, I’m called Malfas. Riedel... my younger sister has been injured...” (Malfas) Puuse turns her look at the other tigergirl. The girl, she thought to be sitting, was apparently cut roughly by something around the area of her knee. Having been given only simple treatment by just wrapping it with a blood-soaked cloth, her eyes were filled with tears due to the pain. “How terrible! Wait a moment.” (Puuse) Once Puuse rushed over to her, she squatted next to her and matched her eyesight with Riedel. “Hello.” (Puuse) “Hello... onee-san, who are you?” (Riedel) “I will introduce myself properly afterwards. Stay still for now.” (Puuse) After a short chant, the mana, which was poured down along Puuse’s hands which she held over the wound, is tinged with a heat which got gradually warm and Riedel’s wound closes up little by little. “Amazing...” (Riedel) While Riedel was getting excited with sparkling eyes forgetting about the pain, the wound finished closing up completely. “With this, it’ll be alright. Since the recovery doesn’t go as far as recovering the lost blood, take it easy.” (Puuse) “Onee-san, thank you!” (Riedel) Following Riedel, Malfas and Olra thanked her as well. “You guys, you are travelling together although you are from different tribes, eh?” (Puuse) “We want to rescue Olra’s father. Although he has gone to the humans’ city, he hasn’t returned yet...” (Malfas) “We were in the middle of travelling as we said that we would meet up with him.” (Olra) “I see... Ah, perhaps your father might be at our destination.” (Puuse) Puuse remembered the story she heard from Zanga. “What destination is it?” “I was told that it is a city where humans and beastmen leave peacefully together. We are en route heading there.” (Puuse) “That’s how it was. If that’s the case, do you want to go together with us?” (Zanga) Due to the invitation by Zanga who came close-by to check the situation unnoticed, the beastchildren faced her. After a short discussion, the three of them bow their heads together. “Honestly, we got lost as we don’t know the way. Please take care of us.” (Malfas) When Malfas said so, Zanga nodded. “Sure thing, no problem. Although it’s not the influence of a certain somebody, it’s irrelevant whether you are elves or beastmen. Children are to be protected by adults.” (Zanga) Like this, the children of the beastmen race decided to head towards Swordland led by the elves.

The one-armed soldier, discovering the entrance to the capital city, was only slightly relieved after running for around minutes. Spotting the man, dashing along the highway with a frantic look, the guards of Adolamelk were flustered. “S-Stop! Stop!” (Guard) “Help me! I’m being chased by an enemy!” (Soldier) Crying while clinging to the guard, the soldier obviously wore the uniform of regular soldiers from Horant. The guards immediately tried to lead him to the guardroom. However, the soldier with the one arm exclaims this to be out of the question. “Those guys, who came from Orsongrande, will soon be here! I have to contact Yugu-sama at the castle at once!” (Soldier) A single soldier, with a ghastly facial expression, hurried towards the castle. The moment the one-armed soldier became relieved that he was at least able to pass on the message, he heard the voice from his back he didn’t want to hear the most. “Thanks for your hard work. Aren’t you splendidly fast at running?” (Hifumi) As the soldier timidly turned his head around in a motion similar to a robot with no oil in its joints, he saw the figure of the laughing and smiling Hifumi approaching from his back. During the time he was unable to stand up due to fear, the surrounding scenery enters his field of vision. On both sides of Hifumi the guards lay in their own blood. While the pools of blood are gradually spreading, the guards aren’t even twitching anymore. “I guess it isn’t that easy to run away. Although you have been so close to it.” (Hifumi) As he swung the katana he held in his hands, blood was scattered on the ground with a sound of splatting. “Uwa...” (Soldier) His voice of surprise was interrupted by the cutting of his throat. “Well then, it’s fine if I go to the castle next... oh!” (Hifumi) When he confirmed the spires of the castle visible from the gate, he saw around magicians heading towards his location from the direction of the castle. “This time it’s a magician-only unit, huh?” (Hifumi) While saying this, Hifumi had already started dashing towards them. Noticing their target approaching itself, the magicians are chanting in a hurry. They barely managed to finish with the casting of the spells before they have entered Hifumi’s attack range. Mixing fire and wind, they become fireballs clad in gathered wind blades. The fireballs approach Hifumi while emitting high temperature. Hifumi laughs daringly without even easing up on his running speed at all. At the last moment, just when the fireballs were looming right in front of him, Hifumi lowered his body with a jerk and passed under the hot and blazing fireballs. Merely a few strains of his hair were burned and the same amount was cut off by wind blades. Even so, without changing his expression, Hifumi, taking a large step, ran through the space between the magicians. In an instant, as he swung his drawn katana mercilessly, he reaped four heads. The magicians, who opened their eyes in shock, hesitated for a moment as their comrade’s heads fell off like rain. And even during that time, being completely unable to do anything at short-range, the remaining magicians turned one-by-one into rust on the blade of the katana. “Alright, next is the castle.” (Hifumi) As he lowers the drawn katana, Hifumi runs in order to start his one-man castle siege. ☺☻☺ Currently fully armoured soldiers are standing in front of Yugu. This is the room for the soldiers on standby within the castle. All of the soldiers, lining up, are looking in a different direction. Their yellow, dirty sets of teeth, which had spaces in-between, where you didn’t know just how many teeth there were left, are visible through the partly opened mouths. They are the soldiers, who were enhanced against their will using them as experimental bodies for the magic tools and magic potions under the leadership of Veldore. Most of the experimental bodies ended up “broken”, but somehow bodies, which could be adjusted to listen to orders, have been gathered. “I see. It would seem they’re already within the castle. If it’s this many, it will likely be enough to deal with them.” (Yugu) An enhanced soldier possesses a strength that can fight against around soldiers. They have been clad in a heavy, metal armour, which had such a weight that a normal person wouldn’t be able to move if they put it on. If the plan proceeded smoothly, their number should be plenty. “For the time being, don’t die until it reaches a conclusion once the king is seized.” (Yugu) The contents of Yugu’s suggestion to Veldore was the simple idea to let the enemies invade on purpose and have them killed alongside the king. Even if the invaders don’t reach the king, with just the fact that enemies invaded the castle, we will be able to handle it in some way At that moment, a soldier under Yugu rushed into the room. “Yugu-sama! The enemy is breaking though the castle gate!” (Soldier) “... Quite fast, aren’t they?” (Yugu) Going by Yugu’s estimation, they would come into contact with the enemy at earliest today evening. Though he predicted that it would likely be during the day tomorrow. Currently there are also many unrelated parties besides the prince faction, created by Yugu, remaining. It’s very probable that they would see the enhanced soldiers. “There’s no other way. While dealing with the general mobilisation of the currently available magicians, have the servants and the nobles, including the folks of our faction as well, exit from the back under the name of evacuation.” (Yugu) When hearing the announcement that the enhanced soldiers would move once a fixed period of time passed, the soldier, who came as messenger, leaves the room to execute the command. “Well, if they were to be seen, we will have the witnesses disappear during the battle.” (Yugu) For the sake of telling Veldore the state of affairs, Yugu also left the room while the enhanced soldiers remained there on standby. There was something Yugu hadn’t confirmed and the messenger didn’t tell him either. It’s that there’s only one intruder and that this intruder had annihilated the city’s soldiers all by himself. And, that the location of the remaining enemies, who should originally be around 10, was unknown. Veldore’s and Yugu’s aim greatly derailed. ☺☻☺ Once it reached the point that screams from the direction of the castle were audible, the citizens of Adolamelk ended up completely frightened. The fleeing people and the people headed for their homes showed a look of confusion as Hifumi passed them headed in the opposite direction. There are many citizens in the capital with most of them showing a gloomy expression. Compared to other cities, there are likely especially many wealthy people. Those, who had gathered large family fortunes, can even be seen moving while being protected by guards. The situation of the coming and going carriages and wagons evolved into a serious congestion on the streets, but that made it rather easy for Origa’s group to move without standing out. “Now then, going by the information obtained by Hifumi-sama, the research institute should be right next to the royal castle. Let’s hurry.” (Origa) The Fokalore territorial soldiers desperately chased after Origa, who was advancing with visibly wild excitement due to the having been entrusted a great task by Hifumi, while pulling the wagons. As they approached the royal castle, the number of people became sparse. At the time they finally arrived in front of the research institute, no one could be found in the vicinity. From the direction of the castle, where Hifumi apparently raged to his heart’s content, screams were still occasionally audible. Even the guards, who were expected to be here, are nowhere to be found. Although the wooden gate, that leads onto the grounds, was closed, it easily opened after being pushed lightly. Origa checked out the interior with wind magic through a slight gap of the opened door. Having completely gotten accustomed to use echolocation, she located the two people, within the grounds holding weapons, with her probing. Given that they were lined up in just the right way, she slit their throats by deploying wind blades without the slightest hint of hesitation. “I will have the people, who are a hindrance to the orders I received from Hifumi-sama, die.” (Origa) Quickly stepping into the grounds, Origa’s group, who left the only two lookouts behind, discovered a building with sturdy-looking gate that was secured by a bolt from the outside. “What’s this about?” (Origa) One of the soldier from Fokalore murmured due to Origa’s question, “The circumstances that it is secured from the outside means that someone has been locked up inside? Or it has been only closed from the outside as it is a storehouse?” (Soldier) “We won’t know unless we make sure, right? If it’s a storehouse, it’s possible that we might find our objective there.” (Origa) Cautiously unfastening the bolt, she quietly opens the door making sure to not stand in front of it. Multiple groans are audible from within. “... Monsters?” As someone muttered that, they wouldn’t know the answer without examining the interior. Origa, peering inside at once, shook her shoulders with a start for an instant due to the scene spreading in front of her eyes. “... Origa-san?” (Soldier) “Let’s go inside. This place appears to be a prison.” (Origa) The soldiers thought they had no business here if it was a prison, but due to Origa entering inside quickly, they followed after here since they were also too scared to object. “Uwaa!” (Soldier) The interior of the building consisted of a single floor with no partitions. Rows of people were tied to the walls with chains. All of them, drooling with eyes having lost any kind of reasoning, are threatening the soldiers in front of them with their teeth. Although their limbs have been fixed by the chains, they are trying to escape from their constraints while making clattering sounds, being no different from struggling, wild beasts. Each of them, being nude, has the characteristic magic tool embedded within their chest. “These are the people who turned ferocious through the magic tools, aren’t they?” (Origa) Origa remembered people who became like this. “Then...” (Soldier) “The magic tools are probably in another building. This place seems to be the location where the people, who were used as experiments, are imprisoned.” (Origa) In contrast to Origa, who calmly studied them, the soldiers looked at the experimental bodies with pale faces wondering whether those have originally been humans. Suddenly Origa noticed that some of the chains were opened. Once taking a closer look, the bracelet parts were still damp with blood of people clinging to them. “It looks like several were taken somewhere, but...” (Origa) Origa, immersing herself in her consideration, passes time with her thoughts going in circles on how to move the violently struggling experimental bodies. Abruptly hitting upon something, Origa began to cast a spell, targeting one of the experimental bodies with the arm where her magic dagger was affixed. After several seconds the experimental body’s face is covered with a bucket-load of water. Although it struggled even more vigorously at the beginning, it completely hung limply in the chains after less than a minute. Getting rid of the water, the eyes of Origa, looking at the state of the experimental body, shine with cool-headedness as they confirm that it is barely alive. “I see. It’s because it had been suffocating.” (Origa) Origa, turning around to the totally frightened soldiers from Fokalore, gave them orders with a refreshing smile. “Let’s use those experimental bodies as well. For the sake of Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) The Fokalore soldier had no other choice but to nod. “My king, an enemy has invaded the castle.” (Veldore) Veldore, leading Yugu and an enhanced soldier equipped with a huge sword, looked up to the king sitting on the throne in the audience hall. Commotion spread among the nobles and soldiers present at the audience due to Veldore’s words, but the king controlled them by raising his hand. “... So? Why are you, who should leave this matter to the guards, here? And, what’s that monster standing behind you?” (Suprangel) Veldore isn’t even able to conceal his smile due to the king’s words. “This is my prided, magic-tool-using, enhanced soldier. This one unit has a strength rivalling that of 10, no, 20 ordinary soldiers.” (Veldore) “If that’s the case, why did you bring it to this place? It’s probably more reasonable to use it for the defence of the castle.” (Suprangel) “Fufufu...” (Veldore) “What’s so funny?” (Suprangel) The king can’t hide his discomfort caused by Veldore boldly laughing while showing his white teeth. “You still don’t understand? It looks like you’ve grown old and senile...” (Veldore) “Veldore-sama, this is too much...” (Noble) “Shut up.” (Veldore) One of the nobles tries to remonstrate Veldore, however he ended up being silenced quickly. “I will have you abdicate the throne from here on out. And, becoming the new king, I will show you how to deal with this crisis.” (Veldore) No sooner than Veldore saying this, an ordinary soldier, who stood close to the exit, inserted a stick into the door’s handle upon Yugu’s order. “... You lost your mind, huh?” (Suprangel) “Not at all! Many people have become tired of the far too long reign of the present king. Answering those voices, I’m only trying to improve Horant.” (Veldore) “Are you insisting to the last that it isn’t out of selfish desire?” (Suprangel) Seeing the king rising with a “Very well”, Veldore expected the king to resign without resistance, but the next words of the king were the exact opposite. “Soldiers, arrest Veldore! This person is a rebel!” (Suprangel) As Veldore shakes his head in disappointment, the royal guards within the room approach him slowly, however the enhanced soldier has positioned itself in their way. The instant the royal guards flinched, seeing its face and understanding with a glance that it isn’t sane, they were mowed down all at once as it brandished the large sword. “While you are at it, get rid of the bothersome witnesses as well.” (Yugu) Upon Yugu’s command the enhanced soldier, who had massacred the royal guards, attacked the nobles and civil officials inside the room wielding its large sword. Although they try to run away within the confined room, a pile of corpses is produced without even much time passing. The figure, swinging its sword just like a stick without any kind of technique, made Veldore lift the corners of his mouth in visible exhilaration and joy, but the king gazed at the terrible spectacle in front of his eyes with a grim face. (This country is finished as well, huh... ?) While thinking about the matter of him also getting gruesomely killed eventually, he sighed wondering where he went wrong in Veldore’s education. He sat down on the throne he had been continuously sitting on for several dozen years. Unable to think of anything but going straight ahead during my youth I considered military gains as long as it brought achievements. If I consider this now, it even caused unreasonable wars. As a result of that, the country’s assets decreased. Even now the people are forcibly burdened with a lot by the country. I don’t know whether I had been correct as king, but I can tell that if it’s someone nearby betraying me in the end, I likely committed large mistakes in some respects. Once he realised this, everyone, the nobles as well as the civil officials, turned into corpses that completely looked as if they had been devoured by a monster. Within the enveloping stench of blood, Veldore looks as if feeling sick.magic As the king muttered that single word, Yugu drew close, holding a handkerchief against his mouth in exchange for Veldore, who still hadn’t recovered yet. “My king. Get ready.” (Yugu) As he was just fixedly looking at Veldore’s figure, without replying to Yugu, the door, which should have been blocked, burst open with a fierce sound. As the door was forcibly smashed to the extent that the opening and shutting direction being reversed, the metal fixtures were sent flying and hit Veldore in the audience hall making him easily black out. “Ah, this is opened the other way?” (Hifumi) Entering while saying such a thing, being entirely dyed in red from spurts of blood and holding the katana in his right hand and the kodachi in his left was Hifumi. Although his dougi is disarranged with his chest being exposed, he has no mentionable injuries. “Oh, this guy is one of those fellows using that magic tool. How nice, let me see whether he became somewhat better.” (Hifumi) Expressing his displeasure since the castle’s soldiers weren’t anything significant, he decided the next target to aim at.

Without a single glance at Shiku who’s rolling on the ground, Hifumi who held the kusarigama, began to advance again. His stride is slow but powerful releasing a pressure of it being unstoppable by anyone. “If it is Darkness magic...” “Don’t falter! Shower him with spells and arrows!” At the same time as the voice resounded, stones, wind blades and even compressed water currents are aimed at Hifumi. “Uuh-oh. Those are intense.” (Hifumi) Hifumi avoids the spells, which come flying, as if performing a light dance. The elves can’t conceal their irritation due to Hifumi moving left and right and brandishing his kusarigama while being surrounded by of them in a semicircle. “Match your timings with your companions!” “Too slow!” (Hifumi) What Hifumi threw wasn’t the counterweight but the sickle part. “Gyaa!” The sickle deeply pierces into the nape of an elf’s neck getting only stopped by the collarbone. The elf, who widely opened his eyes in shock, without time to pull it out, was dragged towards Hifumi. While pulling out the sickle with a light yell of encouragement, he tears the neck. The elf whose limbs were flapping about, dies having his entire body shredded by wind magic while getting used as shield. Hifumi threw the body, which lost its strength, at another elf. “Uwaah?” Next, spells with arrows mixed in-between come flying at Hifumi who plunges towards the clamouring elves. Hifumi who was directly assaulted by spells and arrows being hammered out without a single break, is naturally unable to dodge all of them. The cuts on his cheeks and arms are slowly increasing. However, Hifumi is laughing. “Yes, that’s right, good! Resist me desperately! Aim for my life! For the sake of protecting your own lives! For the sake of protecting someone else’s life!” (Hifumi) Closing in upon a single elf as if sliding upon scattered sand with a *thud*, he drives his fist which tightly grasped the counterweight, into the elf’s face with all his power. Throwing the grasped counterweight over his shoulders, he crushed the face of another elf as well. “Fufu... fufufufu...” (Hifumi) Wiping his cheek with a finger, he feels hot blood wetting his fingertip. “Imagine the instance of your deaths and you will be definitely able to savour the actual feeling of being alive. To begin with...” (Hifumi) Storing away the kusarigama, Hifumi draws the katana at his waist. The light of the sun slightly peeked through the gaps between the trees and faintly shone onto the katana. “At the time you avert your eyes from death, you guys likely won’t die in a decent way.” (Hifumi) Due to Hifumi laughing while dyeing the elbows of both his arms with the blood of the elves and himself, the elves shuddered to the degree of even forgetting to release their spells. “Oh?” (Hifumi) Hifumi turned the point of his katana towards the remaining elves. “Did you decide to surrender and accept your own deaths? Killing wooden dolls is boring as well though.” (Hifumi) While enjoying the tingling feeling originating from the pain of his wounds, he takes a stance with the katana being carried on his left shoulder. “Don’t screw around!” There are elves remaining. An elf who concluded that it was plenty to overwhelm him, shouted. Once again a volley of spells is fired. Even for Hifumi it’s impossible to avoid all the fast bullets which are invoked far quicker than any spell used by humans, and thus he gives up on that. Lowering his stance, Hifumi who moves forward as if sliding, doesn’t decrease his speed even while getting struck in the stomach by stones and cut at the shoulders. “Giyaaa!” Using the momentum of running through, he bisects the elf who gave directions, with a slash diagonally from the shoulder. With a short scream the elf’s body split in two parts and dropped to the ground. He’s already covered in wounds all over, but his expression is cheerful. “Is that human... invincible...?” Hifumi pouted due to the words muttered by someone. “How rude. I will be at a loss with something like invincibility. Battles make my heart tremble since I might die.” (Hifumi) Hifumi who took a stance of holding the pommel against the left side of his hips, approaches the next elf in one bound and kills them with the force of a thrust similar to shooting it out. Pulling out the katana, he closed in on another elf while receiving a barrage of countless pebbles, made with Earth magic, with his back and chopped off the elf’s head while turning around. Swinging the katana, he clears away the blood on it. “Don’t you have any other magic? Please show me some more.” (Hifumi) “Kuu... This!” What one of the elves released was a fire arrow. “You!?” Hifumi perceived the other eves’ surprise in a corner of his sight. Being people who live within the forest, they mostly don’t use fire magic, or rather, they probably can’t use it. “That’s good.” (Hifumi) He deliberately evades the fire arrow at the last second. The scorching heat of the arrow chars his right side and the dougi turns black. . It’s such a feeling, right?” (Hifumi) The katana which Hifumi thrust out, pierces the chest of the elf and its point stabs through the elf’s back. The elf’s hoarse voice is blended with blood. The katana slides out at the moment the elf collapsed. The blood, which is dripping from the point, falls to the ground. “ more to go.” (Hifumi) His murmur is small. However, all of their ear’s have surely heard it as death sentence. ☺☻☺ Before the attack on Hifumi there was movement at the house of the leader Zanga. “I’m going to intrude.” The one who came entering with a brief comment as warning for form’s sake before dawn was a man called Laboras He was quite different from the image of an elf. With a tall and muscled body build, he was a giant who’s good at handling knives, however, contrary to his appearance, he was also good at using magic. “What is it Laboras? It’s quite sudden, you know.” (Zanga) “Who of us is sudden?” (Laboras) Laboras who sat down opposite of Zanga with the sunken hearth between them with an air of familiarity, emitted a dangerous aura from his entire body. “I heard you allowed a human to enter this village.” (Laboras) “Indeed, I did. Or rather, it might be better to say that I had him come here.” (Zanga) “... I want you to tell me why you did such thing.” (Laboras) “It’s something personal.” (Zanga) Zanga throws a twig into the sunken hearth as the fire grew weak. “It’s something that has nothing to do with you.” (Zanga) “What do you need a human for? Moreover, is it something that requires to give him shelter to the point of lending him the village’s vacant house?” (Laboras) Laboras’ voice gradually becomes lower. “... What’s making you so frantic?” (Zanga) “I’m... not.” (Laboras) Laboras put strength into his fingers, which are grabbing his own knees. “I intend to respect you as our leader. I believe that you are keeping the villagers together well. If it’s your words, there are many who will listen to them, too. But...” (Laboras) Laboras, who paused, raised his right hand and two male elves who seized Puuse’s both arms, came entering from outside. “If you broke a law, I don’t intend to forgive that.” (Laboras) Puuse was apparently hit badly a dozen times, her left cheek was swollen and large drops of tears ran down from both her eyes. Seizing both her arms is in order to make sure that she doesn’t heal herself with magic. “Puuse...! You, what are you thinking to raise your hand at your own brethren!?” (Zanga) “I don’t call someone who has violated the laws, a brethren.” (Laboras) Once released by the hands of the men, Puuse walked unsteadily and crumbled down on her knees next to Zanga. “Puuse, are you alright?” (Zanga) “I-I’m very sorry, Zanga-sama...” (Puuse) As Zanga wondered what she was apologizing about, Laboras raised his voice which was blurred by his rage. “We found the corpses of the people who left to greet the human together with Puuse.” (Laboras) Hearing the situation from Shiku who woke up, Laboras investigated close to the barrier on the wastelands’ side. There he discovered the corpses of his brethren who were devoured by wild animals. “That’s probably the result of them attempting to treat him violently while ignoring my instructions. I believe that to be regrettable, but isn’t that fine as you can say that they acted against the law?” (Zanga) “If the opponent isn’t a human, that is.” (Laboras) Laboras opened his eyes widely and glared at Zanga. “That alone isn’t the issue.” (Laboras) Summoning Puuse as the person who’s aware of the circumstances, Laboras had her explain the situation. What he then heard from Puuse is, “Shiku heard vague talking voices. Breaking the law, they started a conversation with a brethren heading towards death and of all things killed him before he could welcome a gentle death! I called Puuse for the sake of asking her about that!” (Laboras) Beating Puuse who didn’t reveal the matter in question out of fright, Laboras forcibly extracted the information out of her. “... Leader Zanga. The human, you invited, killed our brethren and even broke an important law of this village. Do you really think that even this will be finished with ‘it’s a personal matter’?” (Laboras) Laboras removed his gaze from Zanga who pursed her mouth, and glared at Puuse who has broken down crying. “At least Puuse has committed the crime of having dishonoured the death of her brethren. In accordance to the laws of the village, this person should be banished into the forest.” (Laboras) “... She likely only happened to be present at the incident caused by the human by chance. Isn’t that a bit too much?” (Zanga) While placing her right hand on Puuse’s back, Zanga lined up words in Puuse’s defense. However, Laboras was unable to agree to either of them. “It’s regrettable, but I have no intention to listen to your words. Tomorrow morning I will explain the circumstances to the villagers and that will likely result in you being removed as leader. ... Soothing the villagers by showing them the human’s corpse, it will probably be also necessary to demonstrate the strictness of the laws by banishing Puuse.” (Laboras) “You, do you plan to kill that human?” (Zanga) “Of course. That being a foreign body, it’s a disaster. There’s nothing else left but disposing of it quickly.” (Laboras) “I wonder, if you will be able to.” (Zanga) “Even the people moving under my leadership understand the importance of the laws. For that reason they have also agreed to get rid of the human.” (Laboras) As Laboras’ words revealed his confidence, Zanga answered with a sarcastic smile. “That’s not what I mean. I’ve asked you whether you can win against that human with the village’s men.” (Zanga) “Are you telling me that we are falling behind against a single human?” (Laboras) “T guess the lot who went to greet him, died because they fell behind.” (Zanga) For a short while the room was wrapped in silence, however Laboras suddenly stood up. “Anyway, in the morning we will carry out Puuse’s banishment and your dismissal upon the consensus of the villagers. Until then both of you aren’t allowed to leave this house either.” (Laboras) Leaving he two men who brought Puuse, behind as guards, Laboras went away. “... As usual, he immediately escapes once he gets defeated by arguments, that guy.” (Zanga) “Zanga-sama...” (Puuse) “Look, I will wipe away your tears. Since you have such a cute face, isn’t it a waste to mess it up with tears?” (Zanga) She grabs one sheet of cloth off the pile nearby and gently wipes Puuse’s face. “By now I have no interest in the status of something like leader but unexpectedly I ended up getting Puuse and that human involved...” (Zanga) “I’m really sorry”, Zanga gently brushed Puuse with her still movable right hand. Shiku, who pricked up his ears in front of Zanga’s house, learned of Puuse being banished and ran in panic to Hifumi’s place to request his assistance. It was himself who told Laboras the truth, but by no means did his thinking reach the conclusion of even Puuse having to take the blame. Even if he talks to someone from the village, they likely won’t forgive Puuse, once Laboras tells them that she broke the law. If it’s a human who possesses that much strength, he might be able to rescue Puuse and take her to somewhere safe He was scared of meeting that dreadful human. He wasn’t able to suppress the trembling of his knees as he recalled Hifumi’s smile at the time he killed Shiku’s brethren, however no other good idea came to his mind. He doesn’t believe that he can win against the men who remained as guards, if it’s only himself. And, Shiku who sought his assistance, and the assassins who were sent by Laboras, arrived at the hut where Hifumi is staying in, at the same time. And now, Shiku who once again ended up fainting, came to his senses at last. “... Huh?” (Shiku) In the visual field, he saw in his absent-minded state, heaven and earth were upside down. “Agh, ooouuch...” (Shiku) As the current situation was inverted, he apparently fainted being hit by a trunk of a tree. Twisting his body in a squirming motion, Shiku who finally returned to a sitting posture, recalled the situation before he lost his consciousness. “T-That human is....!?” (Shiku) In front of his eyes there’s the completely broken hut. On the opposite of that there are several corpses being scattered about. “Uubuh... Ueeeh...” (Shiku) Shiku who ended up looking directly at something sticking out from a corpse, which had its body cut in two, threw up until his stomach became empty. Pulling himself together, he searched for the figure of Hifumi in order to not look at the corpse, but he saw the back of someone doing something while crouching down while being in fact surrounded by those corpses. The strange attire which had a beautiful deep blue colour, was riddled with holes all over and was dyed by some deep red stains. “W-What are you doing?” (Shiku) Resolving himself and getting close, Shiku notices that Hifumi is holding an arm of someone and his white face becomes blue. “... The reason why you elves get assimilated and turn into arbour is this after all.” (Hifumi) Hifumi who cut a corpse’s finger into two, thrust his finger in front of Shiku after running it across the cross-section. A white sticky something is clinging to Hifumi’s fingertip. “What’s... this...?” (Shiku) “Don’t know. What I understood from examining some of the people who were cut apart is only that it’s little-by-little accumulating at the ends of the fingers and feet.” (Hifumi) Hifumi built a hypothesis upon the autopsies up until this point, but he believed in it with almost no doubt. “There’s something in your food, your drinks or possibly in the air drifting through this forest, however it probably quickens the transformation by accumulating within the body. Since the way of dying is by the mucus arriving at the head, it piles up in the body starting with the limbs and at the time of your death’s it even enters the head. No, it accumulates there.” (Hifumi) As result of transforming from the tips of the limbs and having the head encroached last, the body changes while the senses are still clear. It’s a viciousness as if it is for the sake of causing complete dread. “Th-Then, the people, who turn into arbour and are absorbed by the forest, will...” (Shiku) “Their bodies’ functions will slowly cease and they will die. It’s probably quite painful.” (Hifumi) “Such a...” (Shiku) Shiku who dropped his shoulders as it was ° different from the custom which formed a belief that it was a nice thing, finally remembered Puuse’s and Zanga’s situation. Quickly raising his face, Shiku faced Hifumi and exclaimed, “Help! At this rate Puuse-neechan will get banished!” (Shiku) Hifumi who scrubbed both his hands which touched the corpses with a paper, grabbed a corpse which lost both hands and feet, and tossed it into the broken house. “I’m not particularly interested.” (Hifumi) Hifumi easily refused Shiku’s teary request.

After preparing for days for the coronation ceremony, everyone was in a state of hurrying along regardless of their posts within the castle. The people, taking part in Orsongrande’s national politics, didn’t reveal the details of the ceremony until the very last moment either. This is due to Hifumi’s instruction. He has explained that it’s for the sake of not giving the enemies time to prepare hindering them to make thorough plans. On the other hand the side of the defence has been drilled in the techniques required for their guard duty at a fast pace by Hifumi and he has also given the necessary directions for the construction works. Although only the date of the ceremony has been officially announced, so that things like food stalls etc. could be prepared for the festival on the land near the castle, the time and the details of the ceremony, even now three days before the actual event, still haven’t been released. “So, why have even I been left out from the circle of the privy?” (Imeraria) Imeraria asked in astonishment within her office. Sabnak, handling paper work in the same room, raises his face due to Imeraria’s muttering. “Please do understand. Since you are the leading actor, we want you to solely focus on the ceremony itself, Imeraria-sama.” (Sabnak) “That excuse has been provided to you by Hifumi-sama anyway.” (Imeraria)magic , Imeraria honestly thought. By now it can’t be helped anymore that he says such things due to Hifumi’s influence, but the pillars of supporting me to become the ruler give off a strange vibe. After giving a fleeting glance at Sabnak, who turned his back and sorted the documents without saying anything as if running away, she sighed heavily. These last days Imeraria had been completely disconnected from any practical work. As it reached the point that Sabnak followed her around as bodyguard all the time, he quickly dealt with any official work before she became aware of it with the important financial affairs being the only exception. Of course Imeraria has been doing the final checks, however since he finishes all of it in a way that leaves nothing to complain about, her only work is to look the documents over and sign them. As he handles all the work very quickly, the civil officials have apparently been delighted as well. Although I have to admit his efficiency all the same, I’m slightly not amused that it has been Hifumi, who recognised Sabnak’s abilities first and called him into the administration of his territory. “Excuse me.” (Adol) It was Prime Minister Adol who came entering the office. Since the time Sabnak is shadowing Imeraria, his help in dealing with the work and his hints have been gradually decreasing. He hasn’t informed Imeraria of the exact reason for that, but he likely has some other goal in mind. After giving a glance at the way Sabnak works, Adol made a retainer’s bow in front of Imeraria. Finishing a respectful greeting, he brought out a letter addressed to Imeraria. “From whom is it?” (Imeraria) “It’s from Earl Biron, your Majesty.” (Adol) “... Let me have a look.” (Imeraria) Listening to the letter from Biron, Sabnak also stops his hands and lines up next to Adol. During the time she read through the letter, no one said anything. “Sabnak-san.” (Imeraria) “Ha!” (Sabnak) “The king of Horant has personally visited Biron-san in Münster to propose negotiations and wants to attend my coronation ceremony without fail on this occasion.” (Imeraria) “A-A foreign king, t-the coronation ceremony...” (Sabnak) “It’s unprecedented.” (Adol) It’s inevitable that the three people are brooding over it. Basically it’s unthinkable for a king to meet a fellow head of state in this world in the first place. Above a king being the national polity himself, it’s even rare for a king to leave his country as long as his country isn’t ruined. “What’s his aim?” (Sabnak) “Going by what Biron told me, he wants to interact with me from now on and talk about the post-war procedures. It seems he asked to pass on a message that he wants to request an exchange of technology through Hifumi-sama.” (Imeraria) Although Imeraria tilted her head to the side asking “What kind of technology exchange is this about?”, Sabnak stroke his forehead with his right hand. “Ah~ ... At the time Hifumi-san entered Horant, the equipment of the troops of his own territory were delayed in getting into the country. Isn’t it likely that he is aiming for the same parts as Vaiya?” (Sabnak) “... At any rate, I probably can’t afford to refuse him. Sabnak-san, please contact Biron-san and prepare to receive the king together with the prime minister and the collaborating guards. Let’s report this to Hifumi as well.” (Imeraria) “Even though Hifumi-sama is coming and going to the royal castle every day, I don’t see him. Somehow the number of knights being within the castle decreased too...” (Imeraria) “Ah, that’s because he has the knights practising being on duty using the hidden pathways and the servant’s passages. Seeing that there are such passages within the castle, the royal castle of Orsongrande has a deep history as expected.” (Sabnak) “... Though it’s the first time I heard about something like hidden pathways existing?” (Imeraria) “Eh?” (Sabnak) Imeraria and Sabnak were both surprised, while Adol hurriedly sneaked out of the office. ☺☻☺ While Hifumi visited the royal castle several times, he discovered a number of passages with an unnatural air. There are the sideways used by the servants, but those are located in the ceiling and under the floor. There is a strange dead space between the walls. While examining those by knocking on the wood used as cover, he found pathways and secret chambers, even apart from the servant’s passages, apparently intended as connected escape routes in places such as the hall, the audience hall, Imeraria’s office, the bedrooms of royalty, etc. Since he found those at great troubles, it would be fine for the guards to use these pathways and he even established new camouflaged exits and entrances to a part of the pathways. He completed a network of secret pathways that even the master of Orsongrande’s royal castle didn’t know of. Each place has a dormer window that also serves as peeking hole, which can’t be spotted from the hallways and rooms if one holds his breath in the pathways. Also, he put short spears and shurikens in shelves, which were placed midway, making sure that weapons are available in times of emergency at those places. “So, if there’s some guy who can be considered suspicious, you can check his words and behaviour like this and, if necessary, drag them in here and dispose of them.” (Hifumi) Taking along several of the knights practising to be on duty, Hifumi is explaining the details for the nth time. Given that there are already no knight here who are holding doubts towards Hifumi’s abilities, there isn’t any refusal either. “Do you believe it to have some meaning to erase a target behind the scenes without uncovering them in public? Isn’t it alright to openly defeat them, if we can prove the disturbing elements to have properly disappeared?” “This depends on the objective. Excluding some sorts of performances, if, for example, you dealt with the masses badly, you might end up failing to give them a sense of security. However...” (Hifumi) Pointing at the peeking hole in the gloomy pathway, Hifumi instructs all of them to look at the situation outside. What can be seen is a mid-sized hall within the castle used for such things like parties. “Try to think there was some kind of ceremony going on in this kind of place. Will you interrupt the ceremony just because one rat has evaded the observation? Do you believe it to be right as knights to boast your accomplishments while neglecting the princess just because you defeated a single enemy, who obstructed the upcoming coronation ceremony?” (Hifumi) “That is...” Of course there will be important ceremonies once the princess becomes the queen. It’s unthinkable for them to use these as stepping stones for the sake of raising achievements for themselves. “To the very end, consider being a guard as job of working behind the scenes. Believe it to be just right, if there is no opportunity of publicly announce that “nothing happened.” Besides, it would be probably better if you didn’t go public on how they died at that time either.” (Hifumi) While endlessly continuing such explanations, they are moving around from one end to the other in order to fully grasp the hidden paths. It’s not just walking. While crawling around, they are training to move to not be noticed by anyone in the adjoining rooms and hallways by not producing any sounds. Related to these things, the knights hailing from the former Third Knight Order are grasping the concepts a lot faster than those from the former Second Knight Order, too. Even Sabnak, who joined the first group to be guided, has learned the method of moving by grovelling on the ground without hesitation. “All of you, don’t talk. Let’s now try to listen to the talks of the lot in this room.” (Hifumi) Upon Hifumi’s words, the knights held their ears against the wall of the pathway quickly. The conversation of two men was audible to their ears. “So, how’s the coronation ceremony project going?” “Don’t know. The details of the ceremony still haven’t been passed down to anyone but a selected few. On the contrary, even the princess doesn’t seem to have been informed.” What the knights could see through the peeking hole were two middle-aged civil officials, appearing to be nobles, having a private chat in a small conference room. “As the Second Knight Order was destroyed, the management of the event ended up being completely handled by the princess. As it is now, we will loose the ability to arrange the agreed positions for the other nobles.” “Don’t be impatient. Rather than that, let’s think about something else.” “Don’t be impatient? You should be a bit more tense! We already received the money. At this rate we will be killed by our client.” “Restrain your voice. If you consider the preparations of the venue and cooking, it won’t be strange for them to announce it by today either. Since the number of knights has decreased, the number of knights on guard duty shouldn’t yet be sufficient. It’s probably possible to slip in as temporary guards there.” Although one person is pretending to be talking with composure, their voice is gradually trembling. “... But, I heard the guards have been influenced by that Earl Tohno.” “What can a single person do anyway? Those sons of nobles, who bought their way in, will be defeated by trained rogues, even if they are accompanied by prestige.” Having listened up until there, the knights looked at each other’s faces. They heard a conversation that could be regarded as completely wicked. And everyone’s view converged on Hifumi. “You heard them. Well, if you deal with them secretly for argument’s sake, do you think you will be able to kill their clients within the castle as well, if they gave away their client?” (Hifumi) Showing them a demonstration, Hifumi quietly intrudes the room, where the two are still continuing their private talk, by entering through a hidden door. “So, how many people have to infiltrate the castle at the very least?” “It would be reasonably for many to be there. Please wait for a moment...” The man, who was being asked, dropped his sight. In the moment he tried to take out a memo from his pocket, Hifumi plugged up the nose and mouth of the other man. While quickly dragging him below the desk, he pressed down on his carotid artery with his free hand and made him faint that way. “Oy, where did you go?” As the man is looking around restlessly trying to find his companion, who can’t be seen anywhere, after raising his face, he was easily made to faint by Hifumi, who attacked from the back after getting up on his feet. “It’s fine to come out.” (Hifumi) The knights, coming out in groups, had their faces turn pale evenly. Although the opponents weren’t military officers, it apparently caused a big shock to them how easily Hifumi strangled and defeated those two. “It’s plenty even if you only cover up the nose properly. With only that you will suppress “sounds” quite well. It can be considered good, if you stay completely hidden. It’s very good if you aren’t discovered until the instant you defeat the first guy, if there are two opponents.” (Hifumi) Following Hifumi’s instruction, they dragged the two blacked-out men into the dim hidden pathway. “Train to be able to do these kinds of movements with a group of three. The group, who is able to do this smoothly, will arrest the “client” of these guys.” (Hifumi) The knights showed a distinct determination due to these words. It looks like there is a considerable attitude of wanting to raise achievements as knight after all. (If they improve well, it will become fun to fight these guys, too.) I will have them accumulate plenty of experience for now Adol’s daughter, Shibyura Winger, was fairly famous as being an excellent maid within the castle. Above that, she was famous among the other maids for being a woman indifferent to people of the same sex and having scarce facial expressions. Even so, she was continuing her work within the castle without minding the assessment of her surroundings. Accordingly she was an extreme individualist adhering only to her own accomplishments. The matter of her father being the prime minister didn’t have much of an influence on that. “... Cleaning complete.” (Shibyura) She finished cleaning Sabnak’s office by herself, without borrowing the help of anyone today just as every day. Recently the times of the master of this room being in the office of the princess have become long, but Shibyura considered this to make the cleaning easier. The cleaning, that started with dusting off, was completed by even tending the furnishings and brushing the carpets. All that is left now is to throw away the trash. The objective of her cleaning is the ideal of “the person being able to use it in a clean state without noticing it.” There are pens and documents scattering about on top of Sabnak’s desk, that are unexpectedly difficult to sort in contrast to the speed of disposing of them. But even while wiping the desk, she perfectly keeps the things in the original state without having a single look into the documents. She was satisfied the moment she was able to to keep the current state of before and after the sweeping without changing anything while cleaning it. “He didn’t come back today either.” (Shibyura) She puts back the washed tea set, which wasn’t used today either, into the shelf in the plain cooking space, which takes up a small part of the office. Checking the remaining quantity of tea and sugar, she memorizes the amount she has to take from the kitchen tomorrow morning. With this her first job of the day finishes, but there is still plenty of time left. As far as people, who have a fixed and exclusive role attached to them like her, are concerned, they can freely decide the allocation of tasks, but as a type, who stays silent starting first in the morning, she has almost one hour time left every day. “... Alright.” (Shibyura) Shibyura, who suddenly rolled around on the carpet with its long hairs, extends both arms straight ahead and rolls around to the right and left side. She enjoys the feeling of the carpet’s hairs tickling her face and limbs. And yet, her cleaning was to the degree that one can say she can keep up her appearance without getting the clothes dirty. “Umm...” Being called upon suddenly, Shibyura came to a halt as she looked upwards. Once she shifted her sight timidly, it was Sabnak, who turned up from within the shadows of the cupboard. “S-Sorry. I didn’t intend to look at you, but once I observed you from the back, leaving or staying...” (Sabnak) Although Sabnak slowly believed it to have been better to stay silent, he regretted that he didn’t stay hidden until she left. “Welcome back.” (Shibyura) She bows while laying on top of the carpet. “Do you want to drink some tea?” (Shibyura) “A-Ah... please.” (Sabnak) Watching Shibyura, who starts to prepare tea as if nothing has happened, Sabnak began to deal with the documents on his desk in relief. The serving of tea, she did, was as splendid as usual. “Please keep the matter from before secret. If you told this to anyone, it would...” (Shibyura) “I-It’s fine! I won’t tell anyone. No one will believe that an excellent maid such as yourself is doing something like that anyway!” (Sabnak) “Understood. Then I will keep it a secret that you peeped at me as well.” (Shibyura) “That’s far too scandalous!” (Sabnak) , Shibyura laughed within her mind.

Having his own subordinate soldiers, who came running towards him, being bisected in a single stroke made Bashim flustered. “What the hell is this? Someone tell me what’s this about!” (Bashim) “It’s an enemy attack, Don’t be so frightened if you are the supreme commander here.” (Hifumi) “A blue horse is unusual”, carrying the katana in his hand, Hifumi approaches with a slow swaying. The demon soldiers, who desperately ran away, had been altogether split into upper and lower body halves and died while stretching their hands towards Bashim as if asking for help. “A human... it is?” (Bashim) “Let me tell you something nice. Some of your subordinates died.” (Hifumi) Bashim, who looks down at Hifumi from atop his mount, bit his back teeth while sweating. “Human, did you bastard kill them?” (Hifumi) “The ones I finished off were at a level that I could deal with them with one hand. The others were killed by Vichy... this country. If you are going to attack a place, you should at least know its name, don’t you think so? Within Vichy there’s a civil war... or rather it’s a partial rampage. It looks like your soldiers died after getting dragged into that.” (Hifumi) “Are you telling me to believe that?” (Bashim) “Not really. Do as you like.” (Hifumi) While talking, Hifumi’s vicinity gets surrounded by demon soldiers. Seeing Hifumi calmly continuing to talk even while being encircled from all sides, Bashim wondered whether Hifumi is some kind of lunatic. “But you know, to properly gather information is Vepar’s order, isn’t it?” (Hifumi) With the name of the sovereign mentioned, Bashim temporarily refrained from giving the order to wrap things once and for all up by killing Hifumi. “Your numbers are too lacking. If one really considered taking down a country, there would be personnel in order to reign it and not just soldiers to attack it. Though it’s different if it’s plain annihilation, I guess. Vepar should know at least this much.” (Hifumi) “... We are strong. If we observe one or two cities, that will be plenty.” (Bashim) “One or two? Ufu, ahahahaha!” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who had his fill of a bellyful loud laughter, muttered “What an utter let down” towards Bashim. “You have to do much better if you are going to deceive someone. If you tell a lie and it’s immediately exposed, one will be able to see your true nature.” (Hifumi) Once he roared, the blade of a longsword was created by Bashim from thin air in front of his eyes and at the same time it was shot like a bullet. There isn’t even meters distance between the two. Bashim imagined the sight of the blade piercing the enemy’s belly, and thinking how that would be reproduced in reality right away, his expression warped, but it never came to pass. “There’s no way for the blade to reach from this far away, is there?” (Hifumi) The sword, which Bashim released, is piercing the ground diagonally behind Hifumi who was grasping the scabbard he is wearing at his waist. “W-Wh-What happened...?” (Bashim) “You aimed at my belly, right? That’s why I repelled it like this.” (Hifumi) He swings the mouth of the scabbard left and right. “As if such foolishness is possible!?” (Bashim) The second sword was knocked down with the pommel. “Something like firing it directly at me from ahead in front of my eyes is like telling me “Please defend against it”, right...? Good grief, Bennia and Phelgor were capable of doing a lot more different things.” (Hifumi) Being compared to names he knows, Bashim tightly bites his back teeth once again. “Putting aside Phegol who was the king’s aide, you are telling me that I’m worse than Bennia who didn’t command anything above a platoon?” (Bashim) Hifumi replied to the enraged Bashim by laughing frivolously. “It’s slightly different. If you can’t do anything but sending swords flying, it should be corrected to Did he reach the peak of his rage? Raising a roar with unknown meaning, Bashim held up his right hand immediately and ordered the soldiers with a very loud voice, “Everyone, attack him with magic all at once! The attribute doesn’t matter! Erase the insolent human so that not even a speck of dust remains of him!” (Bashim) At the same time as the order reaches them, a variety of magic attacks, such as ice, flames, rocks and water, comes flying from the soldiers who were surrounding Hifumi. Steam and sand swirls about, and a smoke, mixed with the colours of white and light brown, rises up at the place where Hifumi stood. Once someone extinguished it with a water spell, only the hollowed-out ground was left there. “... Humph. He was a human after all, huh? A fragile being.” (Bashim) “If they hit, that is.” (Hifumi) A sole answer was audible from behind the muttering Bashim. “You bastard...” (Bashim) Knowing the cold sensation at the nape of his neck, Bashim only turned his eyes, but his field of vision didn’t reach Hifumi’s face. Only the cold blade, which reflected his face wet with cold sweat, entered his sight. “Cut it out with the attacks where you lose sight of your enemy. Not knowing what you opponent did is disadvantageous, right?” (Hifumi) “Even if you kill me, there are still soldiers here. Don’t believe that you will be able to get away...” (Bashim) “You are furious, aren’t you? That’s good.” (Hifumi) While keeping the katana closely at his neck, Hifumi grabbed the left arm of Bashim and twisted it. Despite being on top of a horse, Hifumi doesn’t lose his balance at all. On the other hand, Bashim’s balance crumbles and he is a situation where he supports his stance somehow with the stirrup. Even the surrounding demon soldiers have no other choice but to watch from a distance out of fear that they would accidentally shoot Bashim if they attacked. Hifumi spoke up towards them. “Currently you are attacking Vichy. Next to it, there’s a country called Orsongrande. I’m staying there. Come after gathering bigger numbers. If you do that, I will face you directly.” (Hifumi) He removed the katana from Bashim’s neck, but Bashim can’t move due to his wrist being immobilized. “The thinking that you are strong and the humans are weak resulted in this. You feel offended, don’t you? There might also be some fellows who are considering it as unreasonable, if they are a slightly stupid. So, since I’m a feudal lord-sama who possesses a heart as wide as the wastelands, I thought that I will give you an opportunity for revenge.” (Hifumi) He makes a sound as if rubbing silk. Without anyone noticing, the katana, held by Hifumi, was swung up from below. “Guaaaaaaaaah!” (Bashim) Having his left arm severed from the tip of the shoulder, Bashim finally ended up falling off his horse. Holding up the arm while grabbing it with his left hand, Hifumi glares at the surroundings. “I will return this arm if you come in front of me.” (Hifumi) In front of the dumbfounded demon soldiers, he tosses the arm into his darkness storage and wipes his katana with repeatedly stacked papers. While hearing the voice of Bashim, who has fainted in agony, from behind as the discarded papers flutter down, Hifumi leisurely goes home. A person, who would try to stop him, currently didn’t exist in this place. ☺☻☺ Three days later than Hifumi’s party, Alyssa returned to Fokalore while leading the exhausted soldiers. “I’m home~...” (Alyssa) “Welcome back.” Alyssa, who finished the explanation about their holidays and their assignments afterwards, had the unit disperse while having a completely exhausted expression herself as well. Returning to the feudal lord’s mansion, Alyssa searched for Hifumi in order to give her report, but as he apparently left to meddle with Vichy right after returning and had departed casually to some place once again, she wasn’t able to meet him. In exchange, she’s greeted by Caim and Brokra. “Thanks for your hard work, director.” Once she gulps down the cold tea, Brokra poured in her cup, in one go while sitting in a chair of the conference room, Alyssa prostrated limply on the table. “In the end it didn’t become much of a training. Orsongrande and Horant became friends, and that was it.” (Alyssa) “In this time’s matter Orsongrande has probably acquired a superior position in regards to Horant. And in addition, it’s only Fokalore and Münster who supported the royal army at all places. Together with the previous uproar in Horant, the two Earl households have become extremely powerful and influential voices within the country.” (Caim) While feeling a sense of discomfort towards Caim who explains it with a tone completely like that of a teacher, Alyssa received another cup of tea from Brokra and sighed. “Hifumi-san’s influential voice, or rather, his powerful influence isn’t something that started just now, is it? Even in the matter this time, he manipulated the princess... err, queen-sama and the king over there.” (Alyssa) Due to Alyssa chatting as if she had forgotten that she participated in that expedition as well, Caim answered 「Is that so?」 without moving even one eyebrow. Since he has finished listening to the reports from the soldiers who returned together with Hifumi, for Caim, who had all the fact stored in his head, it’s apparently no problem to ignore Alyssa’s impressions. “However.” (Caim) Caim placed a thick bundle of documents in front of the sitting Alyssa. “It’s Lord-sama’s influence. And not only that. it’s necessary for you to grasp the influence of the Earl Tohno household and this territory. Since the current Lord-sama is fortunately the source of it all, there is little history that you have to remember, but regarding the circumstances inside and outside the country, you have to do it down to the basics.” (Caim) Alyssa timidly extends a hand and looks at one paper titled 『History and the Beginning of Orsongrande』. A long, long essay with illustrations put in-between sometimes was written there. “Y-Yeeaa...?” (Alyssa) Next Brokra approaches Alyssa who doesn’t know how she should react. She holds a dress in her hands. “The study of history and politics is important, but for a lady it’s also necessary to practise dancing and etiquette, right? If it’s your age, director, I believe that a cute design still suits you much more than a beautiful one, but what do you think about this one?” (Brokra)magic “I don’t understand what you are saying, Brokra-san.” (Caim) Caim retorted from the side with a flat voice, that suited his expressionless face well, towards Brokra, who presents a frilly dress, making her eyes change into dots. “It’s very likely a problem to be called a lady with an unsubstantial character. If she studies properly first, her performance will be great, right?” “Different from you, Caim-san, there are no cool girls burying their noses in books all day long. If you don’t weave in some enjoyable content, the director will be pitiable, won’t she?” (Brokra) “It will be embarassing as long as she doesn’t possess a proper political sense. You can’t compare social life with diplomacy.” (Caim) “Since you can’t compare them, you have to consider their balance.” (Brokra) “W-Wait a bit.” (Alyssa) Alyssa stopped the two, who started a discussion about her training for some reason, by stretching out both hands. “I can’t follow your discussion. But, why do I have, umm... to learn history, politics or dance? Or do I have to study such things?” (Alyssa) “Huh?” Brokra looks at Alyssa with a startled expression. “... I see, it seems she didn’t hear about it.” (Caim) “Ah... so that’s how it is?” (Brokra) When Brokra was looking at the ceiling while curbing her eyebrows, the door of the conference room suddenly opened. Caim swiftly lowers his head and Brokra follows up on him as well. “Did you return? Good wor-... what’s going on here?” Hifumi, who entered the room, picks up a document, lifts it up and scans over it. “Being suddenly told to study, I’m totally lost...” (Alyssa) “Ah.” (Hifumi) Hifumi slaps his own cheek with his right hand. “I forgot to tell you. Alyssa, please become my daughter.” (Hifumi) “I’m asking you to become my adopted daughter, is what I mean. Since I will give you the territory such as Fokalore and various other.” (Hifumi) Alyssa wasn’t aware herself for how many seconds she froze, but after plenty of time, she raised a voice that resembled a scream. ☺☻☺ “... Recently I feel like I’m fainting often.” (Imeraria) Imeraria muttered while getting up from the bed and scooping up the oatmeal prepared by her maid. “Umm, that’s not because of Your Majesty. It’s because you are troubled over various matters regarding a certain person...” It was the maid who accompanied her to the battle with Horant that is frantically searching for words to comfort Imeraria who has an expression that seems to be on the verge of crying. Directly after returning to the capital , She was also present at the place where Imeraria fainted due to seeing the severed head of the completely changed Balzephon put on display at the plaza right in front of the castle. The maid lost conciousness for an instant as well, but somehow managed to support Imeraria. When she recovered more or less after a good night’s sleep, there was a document sent by Fokalore notifying her about an adopted child. Due to not being in a normal condition, Imeraria fainted once again after she read the message of Hifumi taking an adopted child in the document. After that she was finally able to get up once it became evening. “If I’m told that this is also the duty of a ruler, it will probably end with this, but... the one who summoned that gentleman into this world is defintely me... geez.” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who ate around half of the dish, once again picks up and examines the document regarding the adopted child which was sent from Fokalore. A noble taking an adopted child so that they can have the child succeed the family headship doesn’t really need the king’s permission. It’s been arranged that it will be fine as long as they at least request consent if it’s a current family head or a bereaved family. This was once again a document composed with a content that might serve as role model due to its regular and well-ordered characters which can be considered to not be Hifumi’s own writing, only the signature lines up strangely poor characters which appear to really be Hifumi’s. Imeraria didn’t particularly intend to object about the matter of Alyssa succeeding the territory. It might be something one-sided, but Imeraria feels some intimacy toward her born from the fact that they fought together. If I can have her show presence in the upper class, which is a male society, as one of the few female feudal lords, it might become a good restraint towards the men who make light of a queen “Excuse me. How’s your condition?” (Sabnak) Imeraria silently handed over the document she received from Fokalore to Sabnak who entered after knocking as he probably received a report that Imeraria had woken up. “?... This is...” (Sabnak) “What do you think is his aim?” (Imeraria) The one who probably knows the most about Hifumi inside the castle is Sabnak. Imeraria felt uneasy about him being too close feeling-wise to Hifumi’s side, but she judged that he’s appropriate as advisor. “Ah... how to say it...?” (Sabnak) “Is it something difficult to say?” (Imeraria) “Not as long as I can state it with the premise that it’s nothing but my own guess.” (Sabnak) Shifting the plate with the oatmeal to the side, Imeraria placed both her hands, with the fingers entangled, on the table and made a short pause. “I don’t mind. Please let me hear it.” (Imeraria) “Isn’t he planning to retire so that he can move about freely...? He might have lost interest in being a noble.” (Sabnak) “Hasn’t he been moving around freely until now?” (Imeraria) “To me it looks like he’s pushing his duties on Alyssa in order to begin preparing something big, but...” (Sabnak) Imeraria felt impatient due to Sabnak words. “... I guess I have to directly hear about it from the person himself.” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who accepted the document from Sabnak after standing up, ordered while furrowing her eyebrows, “Please send a summons to Earl Tohno. ... Let’s use the war in Vichy as pretext.” (Imeraria) However, that matter is naturally no more than a side business. What Imeraria wanted to hear was just one thing. “What do you intend to do to our world...?” (Imeraria) Even if something happens, as person responsible for a country, as person bearing the responsibility of having summoned him and even after putting her desire for revenge aside, there’s something she has to do. I might die, but it’s definitely my duty

“I hope you are in splendid health, Your Majesty, the Queen.” (Origa) “Such stiff greeting is unnecessary, Origa-san.” (Imeraria) The dress of Origa, who brought several chamberlains along to the royal castle, was different from the time she accompanied Hifumi as chamberlain while also serving as combat personnel. It resembled a dress worn by noble women. It had a bit leeway in regards to the size of the sleeves and was a blue costume, which used high-priced fabric. Holding the iron-ribbed fan in her hand, Origa, who keeps her head high and engenders a graceful ambience, was the centre of attention even within the ruler’s castle. There also was a noble, who tried to praise her beauty, but he turned pale after his colleague informed him of her status. And currently she is attending a meeting with Queen Imeraria in her office. Originally Origa, who is no more than a commoner that only became the wife of a noble, isn’t permitted to attend in this situation, but with her husband being far too special and, on top, it being unknown what her purpose is, it was chosen to carry out a private meeting rather than a formal audience, where she very likely would have been seen by other nobles. “First off, congratulations on your marriage. Did you get used to life as a noble? Because you were working as adventurer originally, it’s probably a different environment from before.” (Imeraria) “Let me see. Since there isn’t much difference whether you are a commoner or noble in Fokalore, I don’t even particularly have such feelings. If pushed to say, then it’s harder to “deal” with snuggling up to my husband.” (Origa) “Ara. Currently Hifumi-sama is the sole large noble boasting high fame and leading in vastness of territory within Orsongrande. Surrounding yourself with excellent personnel is also an important matter.” (Imeraria) “That’s right, isn’t it? Since I’m also welcoming ladies coming to meddle as if they are sister-in-laws, it’s essential to have personnel in order to support me. If I handled each and every party, my nerves will end up getting worn down.” (Origa) Origa deliberately intends to put Imeraria at distance. Even though Imeraria uses words of assistance, Origa has recognised her as the woman being the most intimate with Hifumi, if she excludes herself. Thus biting words rushed out of her mouth towards Imeraria, although not intentional. Origa is aware of her own anxiety whether she is really a good wife, however she can’t reach a conclusion whether that’s in regards to “the person called Hifumi” or “the domestic nobles.” After having verbal attacks for a while, both of them taste some black tea. Given that Origa and Imeraria are showing smiles, it might look like a harmonious tea party from the perspective of an outsider. Prime Minister Adol, who is present, didn’t even savour the black tea’s taste he drank as he has recollections similar to having his stomach pierced with worries from all directions. “S-So, Mrs. Tohno, this time you not only requested Imeraria-sama’s presence but mine as well in your message. But, what sort of important business is it?” (Adol) Wholeheartedly wanting to be freed from being at this place, Adol quickly cut at the real issue at hand. “... Adol-sama, it seems that you have investigated various things in the reference room recently.” (Origa) “Wh-What are...” (Adol) “Given that I have attached the investigation, there’s no meaning in denying it. ... Accordingly, it appears you have been searching for documents about ancient magic, right? What’s the purpose of that?” (Origa) While Origa indifferently talks about it, Adol is drenched in sweat. Clenching his fists placed on top his knees, he wrecks his brain over whether there is a good excuse, but as nothing comes to mind, he gets even more flustered. “Prime Minister, you...” (Imeraria) Even Imeraria considered his state as suspicious. “I was aware that you were enthusiastically investigating some matters. You were burdened with more troubles than before, Prime Minister. It’s not only once or twice I relied on your knowledge and experience either. But, what’s this about you investigating ancient magic? Though I heard that you aren’t able to use magic, Prime Minister?” (Imeraria) As the questions poured on even from Imeraria’s side, Adol, who had an idea, frankly talked about the “return spell” for returning Hifumi to his former world. Given that it has already been proven that Hifumi has military power, which is difficult to handle even with sneak attacks and large numbers, he has been considering to propose it as apology, if there is a way to return him to his previous world, is what the prime minister decided to begin to explain to people about his own plan. “Hifumi-sama to his previous world... such a thing is possible?” (Imeraria) The instant she hears about it as method of apology, Imeraria displayed a cheerful expression, however she asked with a slightly gloomy face after she apparently has thought about something. Adol, who is worried about that matter as well, wasn’t able to take back the words, which left his mouth next. “... As a matter of fact I discovered records of that magic. Since there are many parts, which are incomprehensible if you aren’t a magician, I can’t really say if the analysis will proceed in the future from now on.” (Adol) “Is that so? Then let me help you with that as well. Although there are various parts to consider with Hifumi, having him return is the best...” (Imeraria) Imeraria was startled looking at Origa’s face. Since Imeraria has known about her fanatic love towards Hifumi, she belatedly realized that her remark likely would infuriate Origa. But, Origa’s smile hasn’t crumbled. “Origa-san, this matter is...” (Imeraria) “I will also help you with that project.” (Origa) Due to Imeraria calling out to her in panic, Origa clearly declared, “Rescuing Orsongrande, the hero-sama from another world, who not only advanced the combat but also the craftsmanship of this world in one go, finished his duty and went back to his own world... It’s a splendid, complete epic, right?” (Origa) “I-Is that alright with you?” (Imeraria) Towards Imeraria, asking with a trembling voice, Origa, drinking a sip of black tea, replied “Of course.” “Hifumi-sama, who is my husband, isn’t a small existence, that will be done with only this world. As I’m also able to use magic, I will give my maximum cooperation for that research. However...” (Origa) Imeraria, who put down her cup, gazes at Adol. “If you were to look like you are pretending the return of Hifumi-sama, Fokalore will immediately announce its independence and begin a war with all of Orsongrande.” (Origa) “T-That is a remark that can even be interpreted as threat directed at Her Majesty, the Queen! Besides, no matter how powerful the soldiers of Fokalore might be, something like challenging the soldiers of the entire nation is...” (Adol)magic “There’s isn’t any necessity or such to take on all soldiers. For us something like getting rid of only the important people crawling in the castle is a simple matter.” (Origa) “But, Hifumi-sama is...” (Imeraria) “Your Majesty, it isn’t a nice feeling for you to call my husband’s name in an overly personal manner.” (Origa) “Aren’t those words to merely interrupt the words of the sovereign?” As one would expect, even Imeraria had lost her patience. “Hifumi-sama won’t attack us, if we don’t oppose him. Please cooperate with us without fail. So, Origa-san, why is it acceptable for you to cooperate with us?” (Imeraria) , causing Origa to raise up Imeraria’s rank as target to be cautious about within her mind. “What I’m desiring is to be together with him even at the time he is sent away from this world. Therefore, I’m even ready to help you at the time of return.” (Origa) “Hey, I will probably be useful”, is what Origa said. ☺☻☺ “I want to try seeing a human country.” (Reni) Is what Reni suddenly blurted out during the time of them having breakfast. “W-What are you saying?” (Helen) Helen, who chewed an after-meal dessert bodan, was surprised and spilled bright red fruit juice from her mouth. Hifumi is silently listening to their talk. “In yesterday’s story of Hifumi-san, humans weren’t people, who only wage war. I wondered, if there are people living a different life. Besides, we aren’t as strong as Hifumi-san. Since I don’t have the experience and skill like you, Helen, who can hear various sounds, I think it’s wrong if I don’t get to know a lot more different things.” (Reni) Reni’s facial expression is serious. She said it was the result of carefully thinking before sleep and wished for Helen to understand it as she bowed to her. “Hifumi-san, forgive me for being a burden ahead of time. Although we will enter a human city, would you take me along as well?” (Reni) “You are unreasonable, Reni! If a beastman is discovered in a human country, they will be killed or turned into slaves!” (Helen) “It will be fine as long as I’m together with Hifumi-san. Therefore I believe that this is the first and last chance.” (Reni) Hifumi, who remained mute while having his arms folded, expressionlessly turned towards Reni and bluntly said, “So, what do you plan to do after seeing the life of humans?” (Hifumi) “That is, even I still don’t know that. ... But, rather than living secretly, without knowing anything, in the wastelands, where I don’t know when I might get killed, I wondered whether there isn’t something a lot more different.” (Reni) “I don’t know anything about the destination country. I’m unable to show you around. There is also the possibility of you getting involved in strife.” (Hifumi) “So far I lived by hiding and running away in the wastelands. At the time of battle I will be able to preserve by hiding in order to somehow not get killed. You don’t have to show me around the country. I thought I want to see how humans are living their lives.” (Reni) Hifumi and Reni locked their gazes onto each other for a short while. In front of Helen, who looked as if worrying with her heart going pit-a-pat, Hifumi placed his hand on Reni’s head. “Got you. It’s a good thing for a child to study by observing various things. Moreover, it’s fine if you have decided that you want to do so by yourself. However, in Swordland you will let me treat you as my slave.” (Hifumi) “Understood. Please treat me well.” (Reni) “W-Wait a bit! Treat as slave, you say...” (Helen) “Don’t worry”, Hifumi proudly says facing Helen. “If it’s the treatment of slaves, that’s something I’m familiar with. Besides, it’s merely a pretence.” (Hifumi) “It’s fine.” (Reni) Reni gently hugged Helen. “I’m truly sorry for being selfish. Once I’ve seen various things, I will tell you how the humans been, Helen, okay? Perchance I might discover a great breakthrough to change the village.” (Reni) “Speaking of village, it’s your village, where the sheep and rabbits are gathered, huh...?” (Hifumi) While tapping his knee with a fingertip, Hifumi was apparently struck by some idea. He organizes it in his head. “It won’t be strange to encounter something that might change your village, too.” (Hifumi) Looking at Hifumi broadly grinning, Helen stood up in a fluster. “I-I will come along as well!” (Helen) Acknowledging Helen’s request as well, the three changed their plans and it became a situation of them heading towards Swordland without parting from each other. The name of the current king of the Knight Country, Swordland, was Buell. He, who is a muscular knight you can even call an exact resemblance of the founding king, devotes himself to training immediately after dealing with the governmental affairs. He is referred as being stronger than any of the knights within the country. “A Knight, who left to hunt beastmen, hasn’t returned, you say?” (Buell) Shaking his short-cut blonde hair while practising sword swings in the back yard of the castle, he questioned the report with 「The reason is unknown?」 “Haa! Going by the records of entry and departure, it is believed that he hasn’t gone too far into the wastelands, but at present it is under investigation.” “Ignore it.” (Buell) “Ha?” Putting down his sword, Buell wiped of the flowing sweat. “I told you to ignore it. If that person is a knight, who embraces our country’s pride, it will be fine to receive him at that time, since he will likely return even if he hunts for several days. However, if it looks like he had been done in by the likes of beastmen, this knight won’t be needed in this country.” (Buell) “However...” Without being tolerated to object, the knight, who came to report, was driven away with a mere gesture of the king. In exchange it was a single chamberlain, who is constantly following the king, that stepped forward close to the king. The chamberlain accepted the cloth, which the king used to wipe off his sweat, and took out cooled water. “A beastman can be arranged.” “If that’s the case, bring it here right away.” (Buell) At the time the chamberlain, who left that place with a bow, returned, there were two soldiers, dragging a leopard beastman, having its hands and feet bound by chains, in his back. “Hmm. Today the opponent is a leopard, eh?” (Buell) Grasping the sword, Buell, who stood in front of the leopard beastman, points his sword at it and says, “Though being a filthy beastman, are you strong?” (Buell) The leopard beastman, lifting its head, glares at the king in silence. “My king. Since this thing was persistently shouting, we have crushed and burned its throat. It won’t be able to raise its voice.” “What, is that so? Oy, beastman. I will have the chains binding you removed now. And, if you are able to cause even a single scratch on me, I will release you in the wastelands.” (Buell) With the instruction of the king, the soldiers unfastened the clasps and quickly got away from the beastman. The beastman, who was suddenly liberated from the restraints, looked below his knee for no more than an instant, nimbly leapt back and set up its bare claws. The king daringly laughs at the leopard beastman, who put more attention into glaring. “That’s right. It’s good to also do that in order to desperately cling to life like that. But.” (Buell) He takes a peculiar stance of pushing out the sword, which he held with both hands, diagonally above. “After all you are a beastman. Consider it a honour to die by a knight’s sword technique.” (Buell) Soundlessly raising a roar, the leopard approaches fiercely. The leopard beastman, who slipped underfoot by making sure to crawl on the ground, aimed at the kings neck as it stuck out both arms while at the same time raising its body. Drawing the sword, he knocks down the fingers sticking out by wielding the hilt and sweeps the blade sideways savagely. The moment the leopard beastman judged that its narrow evasion was successful by lowering its body once again, the king twists his body and swings the sword once more by rotating as if a spinning top. “Humph!” (Buell) With a sound closer to slapping into something rather than slicing something, the leopards head was split open into top and bottom. Without giving an eye to the leopard beastman, who collapsed and scattered brain matter, the king thrusts out the sword towards the chamberlain for them to wipe the blade. “It’s first movement was great, but I was able to deal with it in an instant.” (Buell) “It was magnificent, my king.” The king expressed his displeasure by snorting due to to the chamberlain’s compliment. “If I have a hard time with a fellow of this level, I can’t be called the Knight Country’s king. I ought to be as strong as the founder. Go search a stronger beastman at once and bring it here.” (Buell) The soldiers, who brought the beastman, bow to the king and leave while dragging the corpse along. “My king. It’s time to slowly return to the castle.” Hearing the words of the chamberlain, the king shook his head. “I will leave it to someone. I’m off to the female’s* room. It’s welling up after a fight after all.” (Buell) “Certainly!” The king, who heads towards the room, where the beastwomen are confined, in the castle’s basement, was seen off by the bowing chamberlains.

While advancing through the city, he firmly affixed the katana to his waist. From his breast pocket he took out a small blade, while spinning it around in a rotating motion on top of his hand, he leaves the residential area. In order to leave the residential area he passed the buildings of the shopping area arriving at the workshop factory area where the craftsmen were gathered. Likewise the dwarves, which Hifumi had summoned, were producing the items Hifumi had requested in the arranged workshops in this area. They worked hard to build the devices aiming to defend the entire city. Taking the opportunity of going to the slums, he decided to take a peek at the workshops. With Pruflas in the center, they were producing spear throwers, rail cars and the rails used by the rail cars. Those items finished completely were lined up in a row in the corner of the workshop. Hifumi entered the workshop while lightly raising his hand in greeting. After counting the number of spear throwers, he told Pruflas that it was fine to stop the manufacturing except for the consumption parts. “Shall we stop the production of weapon parts? If we amass a great number of these powerful weapons that can be used by anyone, we will be able to kill many enemies, won’t we?” (Pruflas) “If they can be used by anyone, I think there is no particular necessity for the soldiers to use them. This was arranged in order for the city to be safe even if we weren’t here to protect the city. Just that many is already plenty.” (Hifumi) “Will Lord-sama use one of those?” (Pruflas) “Saying such a stupid thing. If possible, I want to kill them with my own hands, otherwise there is no point in fighting, don’t you agree? However, if it’s only about winning, Vichy has already lost.” (Hifumi) Although it was said by everyone that wars were desired by the kings and the nobles for the sake of expanding their territories, it was the first time that there was a lunatic starting a war in order to kill people. “I plan to move the next battleground to Rhone, Arosel and Fokalore. Steadily producing the rails, I aim to lay the rails rapidly towards Rhone.” (Hifumi) “Roger. I will alter the placement of personnel. If possible, I’d like you to increase the manpower as well ...” (Pruflas) “If that’s the case, please say that to Origa and the civil official slaves. They shall send some people from their staff. Well then, I am off to do some cleaning.” (Hifumi) “Cleaning?” (Pruflas) “As the feudal lord I have to endeavor in making the life in the city comfortable.” (Hifumi) “Haa” (Pruflas) Pruflas saw Hifumi off without quite understanding what he meant. Organizing the things said just now within his head and thinking about the placement of personnel, he realized something. “Arosel after Rhone, Fokalore was it? What kind of situation causes him to push his plans this rapidly? Does Feudal Lord-sama consider losing the current war?” (Pruflas) Is Fokalore the final defense line that will stall the enemy with spear throwers waiting for reinforcements? Since he didn’t comprehend even if he thought about it and there was no other choice but to rely on his talent in producing things anyway, he decided to start the production of the requested rails. Most of the remains were clothes and wood. As it seems that metal was valuable, it couldn’t be found there. As that place gave off a stench, no one approached it except for the the workers and servants from some place to throw away trash occasionally. Between the mountains of garbage a narrow pathway ran through coming out next to the slums. “I guess the smell will stick to the dougi. When I get back I will have to thoroughly wash it.” (Hifumi) Hifumi fervently believed it to be indispensable drying the dougi in the shade after hand-washing it in lukewarm water. Even as he became the feudal lord, he still washed the clothes himself. Even the gauntlet produced by Thorn, he thought it to be considerably exhausting to maintenance it. While care-freely walking Hifumi knew through his senses of the two people concealing themselves ahead of the path. <Although I guess it is fine to decide on a pincer attack, but hiding themselves within the trash? ...> Hifumi drew the katana heaving a sigh. Going towards the presence of the two hidden in the trash, he stabbed them one by one. I think it was instant death for both of them as they didn’t even leak a voice. After pulling out the katana, it was covered with a red liquid. “Wh-What have you done!” Frantically pushing the mountain of trash aside, the two were surprised to find the limp corpses. “Despite doing nothing, they were stabbed without warning ...” It seems one of the dead was a woman. Even as he is showered in accusing gazes, Hifumi isn’t concerned in the least. “They tried to do something. Don’t play the victims if you get counter-attacked.” (Hifumi) “What was that! Although they only planned to threaten you a bit, I will kill you?!” “Baka” (Hifumi) The youth, who flared up at Hifumi in rage, died having his heart pierced. “If you threaten with words saying you will kill someone, be prepared to the extent of resolving the situation with force. It is only ridiculous if a person soon to die says such things.” (Hifumi) As he was preaching facing the corpses, Hifumi turned his gaze towards the sole survivor. He was unable to stand trembling in fear. “Th-This easily...” (Young man) “I have trained desperately to be able to kill this easily. Leaving that aside, I want you to tell me. How many people live in the slums ahead from here?” (Hifumi) “I-I don’t know! Because there are as many entering as there are those dying before anyone knows...” (Young man) Using a shrill and nervous voice, it seems he also became incontinent. “Well then, is there a guy similar to a boss who brings the slum together?” (Hifumi) , you mean? If it’s that guy, his stronghold is in the church ruins! I-I beg you, don’t ki...” (Young man) Without listening to the end, Hifumi decapitates the young man. “The church ruins, huh?” (Hifumi) Exiting the trash mountains, a city with worn-out, decaying houses lined up came into view. Although almost all of them were miserable shacks having their roofs collapsed or completely missing, judging by the presences, it seemed as if a limited amount of people was living there. While feeling the vigilant looks, a building with a different structure became apparent as he nonchalantly walked the the little rest of the path ahead. “Is this the church by any chance? Which reminds me, I haven’t heard about something like the religion of this world. I will try to ask Origa next time, huh?” (Hifumi) As usual, Hifumi relied on Origa for the knowledge concerning this world, but since Origa will likely be delighted about the question, Approaching the building appearing to be the church, a group of ten-odd men came out surrounding Hifumi. “Thank you for the trouble of receiving me. Who of you is called something like ‘Torkemada’?” (Hifumi) He asked without even putting his hand on the katana. “What’s your business with Torkemada-san? You are wearing strange clothes. Who are you bastard?” (Mob Character A) “Are those the church ruins?” (Hifumi) Ignoring the man who asked the questions with saliva flying all over, Hifumi pointed at the building in front of him. “I just wanted to know.” (Hifumi) He turned into the direction of the previous man twisting and turning around a round small sharp blade. “Ha?” (Mob character A) Faster than he could react, the iron wedge was driven into his chin. Besides ripping off the jaw joint, it broke the lower jaw into two pieces. Without even time for fainting in agony, Hifumi seized his face and crushed the skull, killing him the process. “Kill him! This fellow is dangerous!” (Mob Character C) “Something like being dangerous... excuse me for that.” (Hifumi) Saying this while pouting and complaining, he threw the small blades at their bosom. Drawing the katana and attacking in the same stroke, he sliced the throats of two people in one go. Pulling it back in the time the two created a fountain of blood, he pierced the neck from behind of yet another person. Kicking the feet of a man throwing down his weapon and trying to flee, he tread on the face around the part of the eyes and broke the skull of the man having fallen down on the spot. He dodged the sword of the man approaching from his rear causing him to involuntarily thrust the point of his sword into his companion who had his back turned towards him causing his companion to die. Likewise another person was slain as he put his back into pulling out the sword. Watching their companions getting killed one-sidedly, the remaining people unconsciously took a step back into the rear. “Look! There are still another people left, isn’t that right?” (Hifumi) Breaking into a refreshing smile, he decapitated one more person. Catching the wrist of a man brandishing his sword, he twisted it and used the man’s own blade to slice his neck. The person, who was made stumbling by kicking the dead body at him, had his brain stabbed through the eyeballs on the spot when he raised his face. “It’s enough already, please stop!” (Mob Characer E) “Not happening. Die.” (Hifumi) The pitiful man passed away having his skull cut apart down to the nose. At the time that man collapsed with his eyeballs spilling out on both sides due to the impact of the slashing attack, someone came out of the church. “That’s enough!” Carrying a large, well-maintained sword on his shoulders, he advanced to the front of the church which was scattered with dead bodies. At the moment the man raised his voice in order to restrain him, Hifumi aimed at the carelessness of that other man ceasing his movement and now that man was helpless. “This! What are you!” As Hifumi continued to kill even more without even listening to the restraint, the disturbing man drew his sword and went around in front of Hifumi, parrying Hifumi’s downward swung katana. “Hou ...” (Hifumi) In the case of the other guys tattered swords those were cut apart disregarding the slashing attacks. But, while the katana penetrated halfway into the thick sword blade of this sword, it was also stopped. “In spite of being this thin, what a strength!” Desperately enduring the unusual pressure, the man gritting his teeth was sent flying with a kick into his abdomen making him tumbling on the ground. Hifumi’s curiosity was slightly piqued by the man who quickly stood up and fixed his sword stance. “You are different from the other trash. This bunch has a slightly capable fellow mixed in, huh?” (Hifumi) “You aren’t someone from the slum? What the hell is your business here?” “I came here to meet the manager. Then, since these belligerent guys came and surrounded me, I killed them.” (Hifumi) ‘It’s simple.’ Although he was laughing, Hifumi didn’t relax his force to pin him down with the katana even a tiny bit. Even the surviving men had no other choice but to observe from the distance. “That Bifron-san From their mutterings Hifumi learned the name of the man in front of him. “Wa-Wait! If you have conditions, I will listen to them. I am sorry for our underlings causing you trouble!” (Bifron) In contrast to Bifron, who was breathing heavily, Hifumi didn’t have a single pearl of sweat. The fallen corpses of his companions in the vicinity had no needless injuries, there were merely the attacks necessary to kill them visible. “Let me meet the manager of this place.” (Hifumi) “... I understand. Follow me.” (Bifron) Bifron had no choice to waver on whether to take the man in front of his eyes to Torkemada’s place or not. Telling the surviving bunch to clean up the corpses, Bifron stepped into the church ruins leading Hifumi. Those were reinforcements readied under the pretext of supporting Hifumi’s territory as well as the new territories against Vichy who was thought to start an offensive. In anticipation a number of around soldiers was prepared and they began their march after having been assigned in units to each, Pajou and Midas. Although Imeraria had to handle the governmental affairs, she also actively interfered with the army.magic “By all rights, we of the Second Knight Unit should be expected to become the bellwethers of the battle.” (Captain) An elderly man, having his own personal office with the King’s castle, calmly said this. It is Stifels “It is as the captain says. Originally, if it was by the king’s order, it would be a logical move for us to lead the soldiers as they head into battle!” (Vice-Captain A) “Be that as it may, as the king has passed away and the prince still hasn’t finished the coronation yet, isn’t she abusing her authority with this?” (Vice-Captain B) Same as Stifels, both vice-captains also seemed to obviously bad-mouth the Princess’ judgement. With the queen wasting away and the prince also being too young, there was likewise a valid reason for Imeraria taking a leading role in carrying out the governmental affairs. Especially for that reason the royal castle also kept functioning without problems. Due to the civil officials and their-likes understanding this, they followed the Princess’ instructions obediently. But, military and naval officers seemed to have a tendency to be obstinate where customs were concerned. While the Third Knight Unit, who originally belonged to the Princess faction, was fine with the pliable support, the First and Second Knight Unit, whose treatment became worse by each day passing, bore resentment in opposition. “You-know-what, I think the lass only gathered the soldiers for the sake of looking cool in front of the guy she fell in love with. It is even fine for her to get along with the cowards from the Third Knight Unit in that game of fake campaign.” (Vice-Captain A) “However, as things are going, since the Third Knight Unit will increase their achievements once again...” (Vice-Captain B) The Second Knight Unit was impatient. The Third Knight Unit’s achievements rose with such things like the smuggling affair of the Marquis solidifying their high estimation and connection with the Princess. In comparison to that, the Second Knight Unit wouldn’t be able to obtain any achievements this time either. As the Second Knight Unit’s reputation took a huge blow with not being able to protect the king and as there was also the matter of disposing the problem child called Gothras who was affiliated with the Second Knight Unit, they were disgruntled as they weren’t given any place to participate actively in the first place. “The reinforcements together with the military forces of the territories amounts to about 000 troops. Vichy will come to recapture the territories using all its strength. Although it might be possible to stop a defeat, something like an overwhelming victory will be impossible. This isn’t anything to be anxious about. Also, apart from that, we should be able to appear on the stage to earn the victory.” (Stifels) “The stage aiming for victory, is it?” (Vice Captain A) Passing the two vice-captains a signed decree close at hand, Stifels stood up. “Right now it has become a standoff with Horant at the national border. Let’s show them that we can handle enlarging the realm as well, shall we not? It isn’t something that can only be done by that greenhorn, I will show the proof of that.” (Stifels) “That’s right!” (Vice-Captain A) “As one would expect of Your Excellency! You have a totally different point of view than us!” (Vice-Captain B) While the two vice-captains were severally praising him, Stifels nodded in response and declared with a bold attitude, “Gather the soldiers! The true strength of the Second Knight Unit shall resound within Orsongrande, no, in the whole world!” (Stifels) Watching the figures of his subordinates hurrying to organize the troops with exalted facial expressions, Stifels nodded in absolute satisfaction.

“Other than Earl Aspilketa, most of the nobles were arrested. A part of them ended up dying, but...” “That’s fine. It was during the melee, wasn’t it?” “That is...” The city of Münster governed by Earl Biron. The day had already descended into dusk when a messenger of his own army arrived at the place of Biron who had motionlessly closed his eyes, completely as if being asleep, while sitting deeply in the soft chair of his own office. Biron, who listened to the outcome which should be mostly satisfying, was relieved that the losses of his own army were lower than he expected. Given that the opponents were soldiers from another fief in the kingdom, it might have an effect on the circulation of goods within the country because of the people’s anxiety if the losses were great. If this was an opponent from another country, there would still be the method of letting off steam though As a messenger is, to the bitter end, a being who relays the state of affairs, they aren’t allowed a personal opinion. Or rather, they don’t have the ability to understand the whole situation. However, the messenger, who came in front of him, apparently realized something. Such kind of soldiers, who “think by themselves” in various parts, increased after the instruction unit of Fokalore arrived. “It’s alright. Let me hear your opinion.” (Biron) Biron, who faced him with a smile, made him sit down at the reception telling him that it will be fine to talk once he has calmed down after drinking some tea and requested a slightly cool tea from a maid. The messenger, who was nervous and felt sorry at the beginning, took a sip of the tea with its fine aroma and his shoulders lost their tension, albeit only a little. He wasn’t able to match the look of Biron who sat in front of him though. “After I ascertained that Lord Aspilketa’s army, which left first just as planned, would come out at an advantageous spot while making sure of it from behind I told that to my companions and confirmed them leaving the battlefield.” The nobles’ allied forces, which were led by Aspilketa who left towards the highway, advanced on the highway in groups. On top of their huge numbers, they were even unversed at marching and thus made only slow progress. Even when the messenger monitored them from a fairly close place, no one discovered him. “Close to the border to Horant the nobles’ allied forces’ vanguard came into contact with the enemy. ... No, they tried coming into contact with them.” “What do you mean by that?” (Biron) “I don’t know whether that expression is correct, but it wasn’t a situation where you could say that the nobles’ allied forces were allowed to approach.”magic At the point in time when their numbers were decreased greatly by a single unit who set up camp in the direction of Horant deceiving the allied forces with a trap that made it look as if they had been cornered, the messenger returned to his own unit and relayed the state of affairs. Biron’s feudal army immediately attacked the rear of the nobles’ allied forces. “I see. The ones who set up their camp near Horant’s side was likely the instruction unit sent by Earl Tohno, I guess. As one would expect, such is impossible for others.” (Biron) “That’s my opinion, too. Even I, who was taught those techniques, don’t have any confidence whether I would be able to act it out that skilfully up to that point.” “Didn’t we plan to demand their surrender after our army encircled them partially and aimed at Aspilketa’s group from the rear?” (Biron) “Yes. But...” Biron easily laughed off the messenger having difficulty to speak. “Don’t worry about it, please tell me the facts. What’s necessary is correct information.” (Biron) “I believe that I’m not as haughty to think that everything moves as I expect it”, Biron tasted his own tea. “At the time our army attacked the rear of the enemy... the nobles’ allied forces weren’t in a state to be called an army anymore.” “Uh huh?” (Biron) “Most likely the fact of the battle situation at the front not progressing smoothly spread to the soldiers just by the vanguard unit scrambling to run away. The soldiers got scattered and escaped. Without confirming the circumstances the nobles in addition to Earl Aspilketa flooded the place where we set up for encirclement... in the direction of Münster for the sake of fleeing one way or the other.” This time the Biron feudal army lined up spear throwers, which they began to produce in their own territory after being introduced to them in the Tohno Earldom for the sake of sieges. Although those are devices at the level of being prototypes that still have to be assembled on-site, all of the soldiers know their menacing power. And, although they didn’t know who was the first, spears were fired by the Biron feudal army one after the other. “After that it was a picture of Hell if you want to give it a name. Our army successively fired spears out of fear due to the nobles’ troops approaching while running away in a half-crazed manner... Your esteemed order was to arrest them, but actually more than people have died during that period.” “T-The spear throwers where that strong...?” (Biron) “There’s that, however more than half of the casualties among the nobles’ allied forces were trampled down by their allies after falling down or were killed for standing in the way of the nobles.” Biron held his temper while wearing a bitter expression due to the tragedy that was far beyond his imaginations. “So... how did the gathering work out after that?” (Biron) “... Being instructed to retreat with a loud voice from the location of the instruction unit from Fokalore, they were stopped in their movements by falling down due to the countless ropes stretching out between us and the nobles’ allied forces. After that we finally began to arrest them with out own hands.” Once the messenger said “That’s all”, Biron leaned back his body into the sofa. “In short that means that we were saved by Earl Tohno’s troops.” (Biron) “My debts only keep increasing”, Biron can’t help but laugh. “Anyway.” (Biron) When Biron fixed his seating posture, his look took a sharp glint, different from before. “Notify the whole army. Treat the nobles and their corpses among those arrested politely and prepare to escort them to the capital. As for the other soldiers, release those who were drafted for this battle and imprison the rest after dividing them properly.” (Biron) “A war with Horant was avoided. Let’s be first happy about that, shall we not?” (Biron) Once Biron smiled, the messenger showed an awkward smile as well. “Excuse me.” At the time the messenger stood up while saying “I have to pass on the order”, a maid called out to Biron. “Going by the looks of the feudal army, it seems that a messenger from Horant has returned.” “Oh? I wonder what happened?” (Biron) Once Biron gave permission for him to enter the room, a soldier, who served as platoon leader in this time’s battle, entered while bringing a young messenger along. “... What’s your business?” (Biron) Including the messenger who came earlier, the three people stand in a row in an equal manner. They straightened their backs while facing Biron and put their heels together. “The person, who has left towards Horant as messenger, has returned. As he brought along new information, I asked him to convey it.” The man, who is called platoon leader, stiffens his sunburned face with its conspicuous wrinkles due to nervousness while saying that in a low voice. Usually that voice is for reprimanding the soldiers. “By all rights it’s a matter that should be told to my superior, but taking into the account the gravity of its content, we visited you, Sir, after receiving the instruction to tell you directly rather than through the battalion commander.” “Got it. Let’s hear it.” (Biron) Once Biron gives his authorization, the platoon leader made an eye signal to the young messenger he brought along. The young messenger looks directly at Biron with his face, which has traces of tears remaining, and opens his mouth, “Fokalore’s instruction unit, which entered Horant, Ma Carme-dono and the other members, suffered an attack by Horant’s army.” “What was that!?” (Biron) Raising a loud voice which is unusual for him, Biron urges him on to continue after clearing his throat. “So, what about the instruction unit?” (Biron) “... For the sake of letting me, who was at the scene, escape, they chose to remain there and fight. Most likely, they are already...” The messenger burst into tears once again. Without the leeway to call out to him, Biron grasped his fists tightly and groaned. “How could they do such a thing...” (Biron) ☺☻☺ The pole, Hifumi took out while being mounted on a horse, was simply put an Hifumi, who ended up breaking the mechanism for releasing the chain of the chigiriki, had Pruflas make a simple staff with a length 27 centimetres which is used in “What will you do with a simple pole?” (Pruflas) Due to Pruflas being doubtful of that, Hifumi showed various blows against a log, which was in the training area, as opponent. Moreover he showed and performed techniques versus many and throwing techniques against the soldiers who happened to be present there. No one was able to cope with the whirling staff which moved as if it was alive. In front of Pruflas, who felt admiration towards the soldiers who were downed after a few minutes, the scenery of Hifumi laughing loudly spread in the training area. Of course the bandits shouldn’t be able to deal with the iron pole right away either. “Oi, give me...” Among the bandits, who are standing in order to blockade the highway, there was a man who tried to spit out the standard line for demanding money, but before he finished speaking, he died after having his head crushed by the staff. “Uwaash!?” “You bastard!” The bandits didn’t expect to be attacked all of a sudden, however as they were apparently a bunch used to seeing blood, they immediately glared at Hifumi while holding badly maintained swords in their hands. “Oh, oh, you are urging to have a go. The numbers are a bit lacking, but it will be just right as warm-up.” (Hifumi) Once he jumped off the horse, Hifumi gave it a light spank and let it go ahead. “It’s possible to look for gaps after you have surrounded me properly. Cooperate with your mates while using your head well.” (Hifumi) “What the fuck are you saying!?” When Hifumi began to give a lecture while raising his finger, one of them came slashing at him by swinging his sword from his side. “That’s no good, is what I’m telling you.” (Hifumi) Once he launches his opponent’s sword upwards with the staff which hit the sword from below, he thrusts the staff, which he tightly held with both hands, into the defenceless chest of his opponent. “Guee.” At the moment the bandit spit out all air from his lungs through his mouth, he was tripped by having his feet entangled by Hifumi’s staff and the man, who received a final stab into his throat, died. “Are there any fellows who swing their weapons sideways at the time when there are many allies around?” (Hifumi) Sinking a thrust into an eye of a bandit who approaches once more, he tosses him down with his shoulder. He breaks the lower leg and then steps on the head. Stepping over the man who fainted after being hit at the temple of the head, he avoided a man who struck out his prepared knife, circled behind him, caught his neck with the pole, restrained the head and twisted it. “See? There are many ways to kill, right?” (Hifumi) “What magnificent technique!” (Origa) “It’s not only about hitting but also about being able to throw.” (Hifumi) At the moment they began their conversation, the bandits noticed Origa and Alyssa trailing behind him. “A-Against a brat who is accompanied by women...” “I believe the strength of someone doesn’t change due to their company though?” (Hifumi) The bandits, whose faces blushed when Hifumi answered calmly, came attacking even more violently. A man, who was pinned down by having his shoulder joint immobilized due to having the staff thrust at the arm which held the sword, suffered a sword attack by his ally and sprayed blood. “Hey, Alyssa.” (Origa) “What is it?” (Alyssa) The two, who are watching the tragedy unfolding from a distance, followed the movements of Hifumi with their eyes. “What do you like about Hifumi-sama, Alyssa?” (Origa) “W-Wh-What are you so suddenly...?” (Alyssa) “It’s fine. The part about Hifumi-sama you like, there is one, right?” (Origa) “Uuh... After all, it’s his strength, I think...?” (Alyssa) At that instant Hifumi’s staff kills another bandit by smashing their head. Origa, who cast a fleeting glance at Alyssa, who has become red up to her ears, after ascertaining that the spinal fluid has scattered, harbours a teasing mind. “Oh my. If it’s a strong person, there are others as well, aren’t there?” (Origa) “Yea. But, there wasn’t anyone I was able to have a peace of mind getting this close to until now, I think...?” (Alyssa) “Sense of security, eh? I see.” (Origa) “I understand”, Origa nods. In a slightly distant place Hifumi laughs while saying 「It’s the remaining half. It became easier to move, right?」. And once again another person received the staff with their nether region, spouted foam while becoming incontinent and had their throat pierced. “For me it’s the opposite, I guess?” (Origa) “Opposite?” (Alyssa) Origa put her hand on her cheek and said “though I can’t explain it skilfully.” “If I look at Hifumi-sama’s face and figure, my heart begins to beat fast somehow. In addition, after spending time together with him, I felt that a world, which I didn’t know until then, continued to expand in front of me. To be honest, I wanted to go to the wastelands with him, too.” (Origa) “Hey”, while not taking her gaze off Hifumi, Origa placed her hand on Alyssa’s shoulder. “You also heard about Hifumi-sama’s goal, right?” (Origa) “Y-Yea...” (Alyssa) “What will you do at Alyssa still hasn’t decided her position. Receiving a high status, that is unthinkable with my birthplace, in Fokalore, I’m surrounded by many friends and definitely regard myself as happy However, how is my position towards Hifumi as simple human? I’m his subordinate. Even if I were to say that I’m his friend, it feels like I would be allowed to do so. He isn’t my lover. He is my lifesaver. If it’s something I’m able to do, there’s absolutely nothing I would be unwilling to do for the sake of Hifumi. “It looks like you are still hesitating.” (Origa) “Yea. But.” (Alyssa) Alyssa gently placed her own hand on the hand of Origa which was put on her shoulder. “I will properly watch Hifumi-san on this trip and then decide. At least what I want to become for Hifumi. I will definitely make up my mind on that.” (Alyssa) “I see.” (Origa) Origa smiled after seeing Alyssa’s expression. “I’m supporting you, okay? It’s fine to ponder about it honestly without worrying about me.” (Origa) “But”, Origa gives a warning. “There are many rivals. Especially Imeraria-sama.” (Origa) “Queen-sama is!?” (Alyssa) At the time Alyssa raised her voice, the last bandit had just his face facing backwards and passed away.

“What the hell is happening? What happened to Tannin!?” (Kuzemu) Kuzemu, who confirmed the disorder at the front from his carriage, shouts at the surrounding soldiers. However, those, who indulged in the safety of being in the centre of the ranks, had no means to know about the sudden changes at the front line. If Kuzemu himself ordered them to check the situation and report to him at this point, the outcome might have been quite different. However, it was likely necessary for the soldier with the duty of checking to be “exceedingly” excellent for that to happen. In any case, there wasn’t anyone at Kuzemu’s side who was able to explain the chaos at the front line. “Gyaah!!” Even the soldier, who was in the vicinity of the carriage transporting the immortal soldiers that were deployed to the front, has been killed by Hifumi’s party before being allowed to choose the option of running away. With the majority of immortal soldiers lost, the rest is handled by Origa and the other girls. Half of the soldiers engages Hifumi, who applies pressure on them by attacking after plunging deeply into the centre of Kuzemu’s army, to finish him off while the other half escapes. Excluding those who unluckily headed in the direction of Origa’s group, the escapees hid themselves by taking refuge in a nearby cities and prolonged their lives by surrendering to the troops of the nobles governing those cities. The ones who saw hell were the soldiers who chose to stand in Hifumi’s way. “Stop him! Stop that guy!” “Call the magic soldiers!” Even during the commanding officers’ yells, the losses amongst their subordinates continued to spread. Precisely stabbing eyes and throats, which aren’t protected by the helmets, with the sharp point of the katana, the brains and arteries are destroyed. Among them, a small number of those, who received Ma Calme’s unit’s teaching, are apparently able to move properly. Three soldiers use the opportunity to close in on Hifumi when he squats down to avoid swords thrown by soldiers from Horant who have jumped up to strike from left and right. Two swords aim at his feet and waist by sweeping sideways and one sword is swung downwards from an overhead stance. Moreover they are approaching from three different directions. “Hou?” (Hifumi) While releasing a voice similar to admiration, Hifumi grabbed the arm of the soldier, who came to attack his waist, and changed the location of the soldier by vigorously turning his own body around. “Uwaah!” The soldier, who stumbled a step or two forward due to being dragged into Hifumi’s rotation, suddenly appeared in front of the slashing attack of his ally. “Wai....!” Receiving the heavy long sword on his head, the soldier faints. Hifumi, who evaded the slash by switching with his enemy, cut down the remaining two while in the process of turning around due to the momentum of that. Noticing that the soldier, who was at the very bottom of the three piled-up bodies, is still breathing, Hifumi stands in front of his eyes. “Where’s your guys’ ringleader?” (Hifumi) “... Further behind, is, I think...” “What his name?” (Hifumi) “... Tannin...” Hifumi delivered the final blow to the soldier, who answered while gasping, with a *pierce*. Watching Hifumi who easily dealt with the simultaneous attack by three soldiers, the surrounding soldiers take a distance and form a circle around him. “... Over there, huh?” (Hifumi) Ignoring the mob, he confirms the carriage visible ahead of the enemy army. Different from Orsongrande that absorbed Fokalore’s way of organizing a military supply unit to transport goods, something like a carriage stands out on Horant’s side as they are still using the system of everyone carrying their own supplies. “Move it! Clear the way!” (Hifumi) The soldiers retreat in fright from in front of Hifumi who began to run towards the distinct carriage. However, they are too slow. A soldier, who turned his back on him, stares with an expression of surprise due to the katana’s point protruding out from his throat after it has been stabbed into the back of his neck. “Did you think that you would have the time to retreat? The time for that has already passed. Do your best while fighting or strive to escape. If you retreat while simply showing your back, that will settle your death, won’t it?” (Hifumi) Hifumi pulls out his katana with a short *slurp* and wipes it with a paper. While the paper, which was tossed away, dances in the wind, the remaining soldiers have already lost the willpower to fight and are gradually backing away. ☺☻☺ The moment when Kuzemu grasped the state of affairs was the time when he saw Hifumi’s face. When Hifumi entered the carriage by smashing the carriage’s door with a kick as if bursting it open, Kuzemu’s face was about to have its jaw dislocated due to surprise and he wore a miserable expression with his mouth open. “Y-You are...” (Kuzemu) “Let me ask one thing? What are those puppets? They disqualify as toys as they break far too easily for a present which was carried after carefully packing it into a box.” (Hifumi) While tapping the katana at his waist, he glares at Kuzemu. “You thought it will go well if there’s a large amount of them? Having the scariness of numbers on your side means an increase in the number of moves and choices of possible reactions. Even if you had gathered countless of those dolls that turn up one after the other, there wouldn’t be any kind of meaning to it.” “You know, I”, Hifumi draws his katana and thrusts it in front of Kuzemu’s eyes. “don’t want to see a puppet show. I’m sure I told you. Unable to take his eyes off the gradually approaching tip of the katana, Kuzemu started to quiver. “I-Isn’t there anyone...?” (Kuzemu) It doesn’t seem likely that his small, trembling voice reached the noisy outside of the carriage. Besides, currently there are the three members of Origa’s group around the carriage. Far from getting close, everyone has started to back off from the carriage due to the shuriken and spells which are hurled at them even as they leave. “Even though I gave you teaching advices after expressly coming to your place, you are in this situation. I wonder how I’m supposed to release this seething anger?” (Hifumi) “E-Even if you tell me, nothing...” (Kuzemu) He withdrew the katana and sheathed it into its scabbard. Seeing that, Kuzemu took deep breaths making his shoulders go up and down as if he was finally able to breathe. However, it was also a momentary relief. He seizes Kuzemu’s throat with the right hand that separated from the hilt. With his carotid artery being pressured by Hifumi’s thumb and index finger, Kuzemu ended up fainting quickly after a short interval of struggling. Throwing down Kuzemu on the ground of the carriage, Hifumi leaves. Countless corpses are piled up outside and the stench of blood drifted about. “Thanks for your hard work, Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) The one who approached him directly was Origa. “I will go to Horant’s capital next. Since I will be using this carriage to go there...” (Hifumi) “I shall accompany you.” (Origa) When Origa replied in a flash, Hifumi gave his permission by muttering 「Well, it’s fine I guess」. “Umm, I will follow you as well!” (Viine) She probably hung on frantically. Viine, who was gasping for breath, decided to follow them, too. “Then me as well.” (Alyssa) “You are not allowed.” (Hifumi) “Why!?” (Alyssa) Alyssa had hoped to accompany them , but was quickly rejected. “This is your’s and Imeraria’s assignment, isn’t it? Since we will go to the castle in advance, quickly return to your soldiers and command them.” (Hifumi) “Eh~...” (Alyssa) Leaving Alyssa who has become sullen, he entrusts the carriage to Origa and Viine and stands in front of the remaining soldiers while they are moving about in confusion due to still being unable to grasp the situation. “Alright, I caught your guys’ leader. Do your best to get him back.” (Hifumi) The soldiers are astir due to Hifumi who drew his katana. Since they aren’t aware of the situation, they can’t understand him boarding the carriage with a few and moreover having them approach him with a great number even if they understand that the man in front of them is their enemy. “B-Beat them up! We have to rescue His Excellency Kuzemu!” Hifumi smiled once someone who might be a commanding officer raised his voice. “Yes, it will be fine like that... Origa! Follow with the carriage!” (Hifumi) No sooner than shouting that, Hifumi caused a sound similar to an explosion. The soldier, who was right in front of him, received a thrust to his throat and died in an instant. Hifumi wards off a spear, which was unleashed from his side without a moment’s delay, with the scabbard by twisting his waist and cuts off both of the the soldier’s arms letting them fall. “Aah!!” The soldier, who screamed something inarticulate, died by having the katana stabbed into his mouth. “Viine-san, please be the driver.” (Origa) “Yes, understood.” (Viine) As Viine grasps the reins and begins to spur on the horse in order to chase after Hifumi’s back, Origa climbs the roof of the carriage and makes a daunting pose. “Your gentlemen’ superior is on this carriage. Attack it if you don’t mind dying after getting involved.” (Origa) While concealing her mouth with the iron-ribbed fan which was opened with an unfolding sound, she smiles gently. “But then again, if you are that high-spirited, can you During the time she was talking, the head of a soldier, who sidled up to the carriage, dropped to the ground. It had been removed by the knife, which serves her as medium for magic, in Origa’s right hand. “That’s right. It’s been long-awaited thus I shall announce it to you all from Horant who are strong at magic.” (Origa) She closes the iron-ribbed fan making a hard clanking resound. “My magic can be released freely even without me pointing the knife at my target.” (Origa) A wind-cutting sound reached the ears of some soldiers and in the next instant blood overflew from their napes and their heads fell. ☺☻☺ Thanks to Sabnak’s orders, the nets and corpses were mostly removed, but at that time the figures of Hifumi’s group had already vanished far ahead. “Their pace is faster than expected...” (Nelgal) Once Nelgal ordered to shelter the soldiers who escaped from Kuzemu’s side while at the same time announcing to forcibly break through the spot where Hifumi cut through, he advanced his horse while calling out to Kuzemu’s side in a loud voice. Nelgal, who joined in on Imeraria’s plan he was told about by Sabnak, looks at the location where Hifumi apparently went ahead to. There are far more corpses scattered around there than at the place which was cleaned just now. Several soldiers, who escaped away from the highway, are observing the situation with frightened expressions. “Join us! You aren’t my enemies. You are soldiers of Horant! Accomplish your original duty by coming to our side!” (Nelgal) It’s not just corpses of immortal soldiers but also a large number of corpses of common soldiers. have died according to what’s just reflected in his line of sight. “How awful...” (Nelgal) Nelgal harbours such doubt towards Hifumi, but currently he hasn’t the leeway to use his head to think about this. While moving the corpses to the sides, the large army advances. The leading group consists of soldiers from Horant, but right behind them the soldiers of Orsongrande are following while being led by Imeraria. At the moment when the nets and corpses were cleared away to a certain extent, Alyssa came back with heavy feet. “Huh? Alyssa-san?” (Nelgal) Alyssa replied to Nelgal, who called out to her from atop his horse, by waving her hand. “Being told to do my job, I ended up returning. What should I do from now on?” (Alyssa) “You were able to dispose of the nets, weren’t you?” She mentions care-freely, but Alyssa is also someone who rushed into the enemy’s camp alongside Hifumi. She is covered by a large amount of blood spurts. Nelgal can feel something heavy hanging in the air around her that doesn’t suit the lightness of her tone. “We will pass through the hole opened by Hifumi-san. We will even recover the capital. Can you help us with that?” (Nelgal) “Mmh, got it.” (Alyssa) Nelgal called out to Alyssa, who heads to the rear while trudging once again after nodding as if it’s a trifling matter, in a panic. “What will Hifumi-san do?” (Nelgal) “I will go to the capital, he said.” (Alyssa) While seeing off Alyssa who begins to walk again after answering without hesitation, Nelgal was spurred on by the uneasiness “What is that gentleman planning...?” (Imeraria) The greatly perplexed Imeraria was caught by Puuse, who was next to her, after she slid off the chair due to an excessive drain of strength. The army, which was prepared by Kuzemu, lost its leaders thanks to Tannin’s absences and Kuzemu’s abduction. Because of the losses they suffered from Hifumi including the annihilation of the immortal soldiers, the matter of having them join was more successful and simple than expected by Nelgal as they had already diverted from maintaining a structure as organization. Running swiftly along the highway without taking a break, the allied forces of Horant and Orsongrande, which forcibly broke through the capital’s gates and the centre, set up camp making use of the plaza in front of the castle. No, deciding to set up camp, they couldn’t avoid stopping for a moment to do so. “P-Please save meee!” The tied-up Kuzemu was suspended from the balcony, which faced the plaza that continued into the main street, with a single long rope. “Someone! Anyoneee!” (Kuzemu) At the moment when Nelgal reflexively gave the order to stop after being shown the far too pitiful view, Hifumi suddenly showed up on the balcony. Gaap is visible next to him. “You finally came?” (Hifumi) Hifumi’s voice carried well. It reached even Nelgal’s and Imeraria’s ears. “Imeraria, Alyssa! Some time ago you were let down by the disappointing weapons of this fool. Instead of those, I prepared a game. Although you will be betting your lives, it’s fine to have some fun.” (Hifumi) Once he said that much, he quickly withdrew. It seems like the remaining Gaap has been told something by Hifumi, but it’s not audible for Imeraria’s group who is watching from below. “Umm... that means, everyone, please do your best to rescue His Excellency Kuzemu.” (Gaap) Originally the voice of Gaap while reading from a memo shouldn’t be audible, but Imeraria, Nelgal and the others could hear it well. “This is... Origa-san’s magic, isn’t it?” (Imeraria) Sabnak heard what Imeraria grumbled, but when he looked all over the castle, he didn’t find Origa. Gaap’s explanation continued. “Please feel relieved as we made all non-combatants leave the castle. Instead, many traps and immortal soldiers will stand in your way. The time limit is until sunset. At the same time as the sun goes down, the rope, which holds His Excellency Kuzemu, will be severed. Also, given that we have released immortal soldiers inside the city, please do your best to capture them... I guess it’s fine with this.” (Gaap) At the moment the last murmuring could be heard, the spell was apparently cancelled. Gaap’s voice didn’t reach them any longer. And, once the front gate slowly opened, around thirty soldiers rushed out as if escaping. Once they discovered the figures of their colleagues and Nelgal, they prostrated themselves by sliding in front of Nelgal. “N-Nelgal-sama! Please forgive us! The castle has, the castle has...!” After looking at Nelgal who is soothing them with a troubled expression, Sabnak, who once again lifted his gaze, mutters, “If the one who has been captured is a middle-aged man and not a beautiful girl, that’s a person who won’t trigger any motivation. Well, I understand plentifully why the world’s hero stories tell about saving princesses.” (Sabnak) Due to his objection by playing a fool, Imeraria stood up and spanked his butt with a whip used for horse riding.

Reni, who left the meeting room together with Zanga, told the knight of Orsongrande, who was accompanying them under the pretext of being a guide and an escort, “I want to go outside.” “Then, this way, please.” The interior of the castle, which had repeatedly parts added to it, is complicated, making a guide necessary for even leaving and entering. The figures of several people walking in groups with Reni and Zanga in the lead right behind the knight was such a rare sight in the castle that they received plenty of rude looks from the people serving in the castle. “...So, sheep-jou-chan, you’re planning something, aren’t you?” (Zanga) Zanga says to Reni with a whisper. “We will talk after leaving the castle. If you can agree with my points, it will be a big help if we can get your assistance, but...” (Reni) “I see. Then let’s get quickly out of her. Stone buildings are somewhat uncomfortable for elves.” (Zanga) “Though a soft chair isn’t all that bad,” Zanga laughs. After walking for around minutes, Reni called out to the knight at the castle gate. “Until here is fine. We know the way to the inn.” (Reni) “Is that so? Then, if you have any business, come to the castle please.” “Okay. Thank you.” (Reni) The knight saw of Reni’s group, but or course they are under surveillance. Going by Reni’s assumption, someone dressed as city resident should follow them once they leave the plaza. “I will explain to you now.” (Reni) “Please. The queen-sama said all that, but there’s no way that we can sleep peacefully with just that.” (Zanga) Reni grinned widely at Zanga’s way of talking. Reni, who doesn’t know the faces of her grandparents, felt a strangely relaxing atmosphere from Zanga’s aloof presence. With a slack expression Reni explains something surprising to Zanga. “The queen-sama plans to cause an uproar in front of the castle. ...It looks like she plans to seal Hifumi-san with magic. I don’t know the reason, but I hear Puuse-san is cooperating with her as well.” (Reni) Reni continued speaking to Zanga who looks at her with widened, resolved eyes. “It means that the talks with the demon queen have finished to some extent. It will start very soon.” (Reni) “In that case we should get out of here as fast as possible.” (Zanga) “We should do so, but since it’s a rare chance, we will use this to raise the beastmen’s standing.” (Reni) “Raise your standing? What do you plan to do?” (Zanga) Reni answered with a strained voice to Zanga who tilts her head in confusion, “It will result in that Hifumi-san fighting a group...during that time we will help the residents in the surroundings to escape. We will be able to wonderfully show off the footwork of beastmen. ...How about the elves doing so as well? It’s a chance to demonstrate the defensive magic skills owned by you. I’m sure all the humans will be startled and give the elves their thanks.” (Reni) The young beastgirl is trying to grasp the hearts of the humans as if it’s similar to a “prearranged performance.” But, if it’s related to the future of our race “...We will cooperate. Or rather, I think we will try to move by your instructions, sheep-jou-chan.” (Zanga) ☺☻☺ The balcony of the royal castle. Two queens stood there right now. Without any guards or servants, just the two of them. Contrary to Imeraria, whose white face is completely expressionless like that of a Noh mask, Vepar is tense with sweat running down her gray face. “Hifumi-sama is over there.” (Imeraria) Ahead of where Imeraria was pointing, Hifumi, who had turned his back on the castle, was talking with Midas. As for the location, it’s the plaza in front of the castle with Hifumi being close to the exit. Moreover, on the other side of the entrance the soldiers of Orsongrande are lining up with their backs likewise turned on the castle, guarding the area in a loose formation. On the plaza, several people are taking care of the horses which Fokalore’s soldiers and the demons used to get here. “Once you summon your soldiers on the other side of Hifumi-san, I will have the knights sortie under the pretense of it being for the sake of defense. While carrying out a pincer attack, Puuse-san will imprison Hifumi-sama with barrier magic, and at the same time I will activate the sealing magic.” (Imeraria) “...You sure make it sound easy.” (Vepar) Vepar has formed an army corps of soldiers at their base in Vichy and has them wait on standby. It’s a disposable unit led by Bashim, gathered on behalf of the secret agreement with Imeraria. Even if Bashim kills Hifumi, he will be executed for the sin of having arbitrarily started a battle in another country. Though Vepar doesn’t believe that he has the slightest chance to win. “On our side we have the knight order and the powerful soldiers of Fokalore, who are resting on the plaza. There are guards and knights in the city as well. There’s a commander as well. The horses...if there are losses among them, I will have them compensated.” (Imeraria) “Therefore it’s fine to go all out,” Imeraria smiles. Hifumi and this queen; the humans are insane. I’m gradually losing my confidence in my ability to control the citizens of Vichy. But, I wonder what would happen if I refused here? The woman called Imeraria might spur on Hifumi to fight the demons in order to wear him out. If that happens, us demons, who finally managed to go out into the world, might vanish from history for eternity this time. Vepar doesn’t have any big ambitions, but she doesn’t want to go down in history as foolish queen. “Understood...since it’s slightly far, will you allow me to focus?” (Vepar) “Yes. I shall get ready myself as well then.” (Imeraria) Once Imeraria turns around, the elf Puuse gracefully appears on the balcony while holding two wands. Imeraria, who received one of the wands with extravagant ornaments applied to it, lines up next to Vepar and Puuse stood next to her while tightly grasping her wand. “Let’s begin.” (Imeraria) In her heart Imeraria apologized to Vepar, Puuse, the knights and soldiers. This is a cleaning up of the mess caused by Imeraria and her father. Originally it’s something she has to do by herself and not get various other races besides her country involved in this. She naturally extends her hand to her abdomen. She had decided to hand over this country in a good state to her child. Crying and apologizing has to wait for the bitter end. “I’m starting.” (Vepar) Hearing Vepar’s voice, Imeraria lifter her face which she had lowered unconsciously. “Hifumi-san, we will return to the city for the moment.” (Reni) Reni, who is about to pass next to Hifumi while casually calling out to him, was forced to stop against her will by having her neck grabbed from behind. Instead of Reni, who can’t speak up out of surprise, Helen protests, “Hey, what are you doing!?” (Helen) “I have just caught a bug sticking to her.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who removes the glove from his free left hand by using his mouth, acts as if he’s pulling out something from Reni’s back. “There you go, now off with you. It’s a good idea to go ahead of the others since you’re slow-footed, but don’t make the blunder of mistaking your destination after being tempted into doing something stupid.” (Hifumi) Reni, who was released by being tossed away, rubbed her neck and laughed. “As expected, I’m no match for you, Hifumi-san.” (Reni) “Get lost quickly. You’re a nuisance.” (Hifumi) Helen and Zanga hurried up, but only Reni closely stared at Hifumi’s face. “What is it?” (Hifumi) “Thank you very much!” (Reni) Hifumi waves his right hand to drive away Reni, who had bowed her head. “If you want to thank me, then create an interesting world. There’s nothing else that I wish from you besides that.” (Hifumi) “Understood!” (Reni) Reni runs off while waving a hand. Meanwhile the something, which was grasped in Hifumi’s left hand transformed into the face of a skinny man and struggled while scattering something similar to black fog. “What’s that?” (Midas) “The fragment of an idiot who tried to use others to kill me.” (Hifumi) While answering Midas’ question, Hifumi crushed the shinigami‘s face with his black hand. “...I guess it has started.” (Hifumi) What appeared first was a black circle with the size of a volleyball. The “surface” of the gate, which became four meters in diameter within less than seconds, was calm like the surface of a lake with not a single breeze going. “This is...” (Midas) “The enemy is coming.” (Hifumi) “...Eh?” (Midas) “Go to the soldiers on the city’s side. The demons’ troops are coming.” (Hifumi) It’s a crazy story, but seeing Hifumi’s expression, Midas decided to believe him and started to run. “Good god...finally it’s starting, eh?” (Hifumi) Plunging the glove into his pocket, Hifumi loosened his neck and shoulders up by rotating them, and then adjusted the location of his katana. First a single one. A male demon emerged from within the darkness. “Just when I wondered whether it’s finally our turn...what a great omen. For you bastard to be the first target in our trampling of the humans.” (Bashim) The one-handed demon, Bashim looks at Hifumi’s face, revealing a savage smile while baring his teeth. “What, it’s you? Doesn’t Vepar have any powerful subordinates? I expected an at least a bit more bulky fellow, but...well, whatever.” (Hifumi) “Asshole!” (Bashim) In rage Bashim used his ability, causing two knife blades to float in midair. Meanwhile one demon soldier after the other appears from the black gate. Fokalore’s soldiers, who were on the plaza, quickly stand up while holding their weapons, and build a defensive wall by toppling over several carts. The voice of Midas reverberates at the plaza’s entrance. The knights and soldiers face about right, and draw the swords while facing the castle. Moreover the voices of Reni and Helen telling the citizens to take refuge can be heard in the distance. During all that time, Hifumi doesn’t do anything, not even touching the hilt of his katana. “Look, your arm is over there.” (Hifumi) “Whaaa!?” (Bashim) What Hifumi pointed at was the pedestal that had been installed in the center of the plaza. Being covered by a cloth, it’s standing all alone there, as if having been abandoned. “It’s being kept veeeery safely by having been placed into a case. Hey! It’s fine to go there to take it back with your own hands.” (Hifumi) Even while grating his back teeth with grinding sounds due to Hifumi’s ridiculing speaking style, Bashim slowly distances himself from Hifumi and heads over to the pedestal. While keeping his eyes on Hifumi, he touches the pedestal with his stretched out right hand and uses one of the still floating blades to tear up the cover as he suppresses his impatience. During that time the demon soldiers appear in groups in front of Hifumi, and spread out left and right on the plaza that seems to run out of space. The royal army and Fokalore’s soldiers watch the situation with tension. At last the completely armed knight order appeared from within the castle and lined up. They number close to . Bashim, who knew that they were surrounded, laughs scornfully. “Do you intend to crush us by relying on numbers...? But you know...” (Bashim) The stream of demons popping out of the gate doesn’t cease. Their numbers have long ago passed 0, but without interruption, armed soldiers keep spilling out. Watching the demons as they crowded around him, Hifumi touched the katana for the first time. Without drawing it, he just placed his hand gently on it, though. “What, this is...” (Bashim) Once he heard Bashim’s shocked voice, the corners of Hifumi’s move suddenly rose, and in an instant he starts to run. Looking at Balzephon, who had completely changed into a glaring, freshly severed head, Bashim saw Hifumi quickly circle around the head. And what he saw next was Hifumi’s knee. “Let’s start! Come at me without any reservations!” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who easily jumped upward while shouting that, drives his knee into Bashim’s face and cracked the pedestal that had a magic circle to seal Balzephon drawn on it with Bashim’s head. “You participate as well. Bal-something! Endure with this guy as body.” (Hifumi) Balzephon, who saw Bashim who had the back of his head split open by Hifumi, spilled a thread-like stream of blood from the base of his neck and made it touch Bashim. After confirming that, Hifumi stepped over the pedestal. Once he lands with a deliberately loud thump, he looks up to Imeraria and the other two who are looking down from the balcony. And then he drew his katana. “The number of people has increased? Just what the heck is going on?” (Vepar) Due to the number of soldiers being obviously far higher than those prepared under Bashim’s command, Vepar raised her voice, letting her emotions, a mixture of surprise and anger, free reign. At this rate, if it results in the demon soldiers rushing the castle in the worst case while fully relying on their numbers, a messy and dire battle won’t be avoidable. Frantically wracking her brain that has turned into a mess, she fist closes the gate. Upon the gate disappearing in the twinkling of an eye, two soldiers had their bodies apparently cut apart, but her rage towards her subordinates, who did whatever they like, made her look away from that tragedy. “I’m very sorry, I will go down right away and stop the soldiers. At this rate...” (Vepar) “Please stay here as you are.” (Imeraria) Imeraria interrupted Vepar in a calm manner. “There being a big number of people is a good thing on this occasion. They are...” (Imeraria) Carrying the wand under her arm, Imeraria pointed at the demons gradually filling the plaza as if occupying it. “It’s fine to regard them as death soldiers, right? If it is, isn’t that great? Please watch from here...please don’t say that you are going back out at this point, okay?” (Imeraria) Unable to find any words to reply with, Vepar shifted her eyes from Imeraria’s well-featured, white face, which is fixated on a single point, Hifumi, who is below them. Hifumi looked up to them. “The situation has already started to move. The battle has begun now. I will order the knights and soldiers to put the situation under control, but...a part of the knights will pretend to support Hifumi-sama while accompanied by soldiers. That will seal off his movements.” (Imeraria) “If we are able to restrain him to a certain range, Puuse will imprison Hifumi-sama using a magic wall,” Imeraria indifferently explains. “I-I’m sorry to to tell you, but no matter how much advantage you gain from a melee, I don’t consider that man to be someone whose movement you can restrain even if you have humans flock around him in a group.” (Vepar) “You’re right. It probably won’t work if it’s just the soldiers. But, the people scheduled to rush out of the castle to assist him are not only our country’s soldiers.” (Imeraria) While they are talking, the demon soldiers on the plaza all together swarm Hifumi, except for a group that moved in order to save Bashim. “Who else then?” (Vepar) “Yes, I asked the person who knows him the best.” (Imeraria) Suddenly a gust blew from the rear of the balcony. The small and light Imeraria staggers. A single woman ran past her and literally jumped off the balcony. It’s likely thanks to wind magic. The blue robe fully absorbs the wind, making her soar towards the plaza. “It’s Hifumi-sama’s wife, Origa-san.” (Imeraria)magic Due to Vepar being speechless, Imeraria smiles while fixing her dress that had become disheveled by the wind. “Please look closely. The slaughterer summoned from a different world by a foolish princess will be betrayed by his family and sealed by an inhuman queen.” (Imeraria)

Entering the slums of Swordland, the elves were each assigned a house for their families. It has been scheduled for them to be given a job according to Reni’s group’s decision as well as the wishes of the people themselves after a few days. The humans harboured feelings of fearfulness towards the elves, but as they were simply existences “whom they know of but had never seen before” for the beastmen, everyone had a keen interest in the new immigrants. Having been assigned a slightly larger one-story house together with Puuse and Shiku, Zanga officially accepted the role of being the mediator of the elves from Reni. Zanga’s group, who had been called to the workplace of Reni, was told about that role for the first time when they had a preparatory meeting about the future from now on while enjoying some tea. “I’d like you to teach magic to us beastmen as well.” (Reni) “Magic, you say?” (Zanga) “Yes. There are people among the humans who can use magic. I heard that elf-san’s group is able to use magic even more skilfully.” (Reni) After pondering for a while while having her eyes closed, Zanga looked directly into the eyes of Reni. “... What do you plan to do by learning magic?” (Zanga) “I want us to have the power to protect everyone in this city.” (Reni) No hesitation can be seen in Reni’s expression as she gives that immediate reply. “Fufu... okay, I got it, I got it.” (Zanga) Bursting into laughter, Zanga faced Puuse who was sitting next to her. “Puuse, teach them magic together with the women who can’t do manual labour.” (Zanga) “Understood.” (Puuse) Zanga turns a strict look at Reni who is jumping for joy with a 「Hooray」 due to that exchange. “But, you know, sheep-san. I have been living for a long time, but I never heard something like a beastman being able to use magic. You don’t know whether you will be able to learn it or not, do you? It might become a fruitless effort. Do you still want to do it even then?” (Zanga) “Of course.” (Reni) Nodding strongly, Reni grabbed the hand of Helen who was close-by. “After meeting with Hifumi-san, the two of use have been taught many various things, studied and are now able to live in the city somehow. However, there are still many beastmen and humans who are on bad terms with us. Although I want to invite our mothers as well, I think that it’s still difficult to do so.” (Reni) “But”, Reni continues while breathing roughly through her nose. “Even if it’s only in this small city, we were able to create a place where beastmen and humans can live together peacefully. From now on it will be together with elf-san’s group as well. Am I able to do anything to protect this city... since I won’t know if I don’t attempt as I’m not overly smart either, I will give it at least a try.” (Reni) “Now that I remember, even the stuff like studying, Hifumi made us do, has its use, right?” (Helen) Helen, who squeezed back the hand of Reni while looking embarrassed, recalled the time when she could study with they other beastmen and everyone while being confined in the inn. Now that she has risen to a position with responsibility the reading and writing of characters as well as the partial knowledge about calculation was a very priceless treasure. The beastmen, who flowed into this city from being purchased by Hifumi and who haven’t originally lived in the slums, are generally able to read and write while a part of the beastmen like Reni is also able to calculate. At certain points their administrative throughput became even better than the city centred around the humans. However, not knowing of someone to compare with, Reni’s group believed that there are still many problems. “We will know whether it’s possible or not once we try it.” (Reni) Reni has included that detail in her calm calculations as well. As result of abuse among beastmen, there are even quite a few injured people who can’t properly walk. They harboured emotions of shame for not being able to contribute to the growth of the city. Hearing the words from those, who are helping with Reni’s official work, and those, who are doing things like tending to stores where they can work without having to move around, it was a worrisome aspect for Reni in particular as she didn’t know what would be good to do about it. If beastmen are able to use magic, it will probably become possible for them to play a support role with long-distance attacks and healing the injured on the battlefield with healing magic. If they gain a little confidence by being able to contribute to the city by fighting to protect it, won’t that calm their hearts? “Sheep-san... no, it’s wrong if I don’t call you Reni-san.” (Zanga) Fixing her seating posture, Zanga bowed fully while facing Reni. “Thank you very much for giving us elves, who lost their home, roles and a place to stay at. Please take care of us as we will be useful for various things besides magic.” (Zanga) Zanga, who shook Reni’s small and soft hand, got anxious in her mind while showing a smile. (What has Hifumi-san done to such a charming, little child... I don’t understand what that man is thinking, but I want to protect these children...) , while smiling bitterly in her heart in self-mockery, Zanga firmly grasped the hand of Reni with her deeply wrinkled hand. ☺☻☺ The demons, who ended up confronting Hifumi, have been slaughtered one after the other starting from those, who were close to Hifumi, regardless of their status. The dagger, which is wielded along a sound of cutting wind, slashes through the demons’ throats and thigh arteries, pierces their eyes and gouges out their hearts. A vast amount of bloodstains remain here and there on the way towards the elven village from the demons’ city. The demon soldiers, who are running away in the lead, have already diminished to only three people. With them being split apart from their own groups, they remained to the bitter end in order to escape without minding their own appearances while their comrades were done in. However, they haven’t failed to notice Hifumi’s pursuit. “Ah!” Someone fell by pitching forward while voicing a short scream. The soldier, who crashed into the ground starting with his face due to the momentum of running, has the dagger sticking out from the back of his head. At the time of falling he had already died. Recovering the dagger by pulling it out while running past, Hifumi examined the blade of the dagger while keeping the remaining two in his field of vision. “Well, I guess that’s normal.” (Hifumi) Discovering several small nicks in the blade, Hifumi grumbles quietly. The dagger, which hasn’t received a divine protection, has a sharp blade to bring out its cutting ability. Given that this part is brittle, the clinging grease will kill its edge and the blade will be damaged as well if one kills several tens of people, even if he mostly aimed at the soft throats and eyeballs. “I guess it’s still usable for piercing, but... oh well, it will probably be fine.” (Hifumi) Tossing the dagger into his darkness storage, Hifumi, who became unarmed, raised his speed even more. The remaining two knew that beyond this point the elven barrier would stretch out. If they went in that direction, it would turn into a dead end for them. However, the current situation was that they couldn’t do anything but run away straight ahead until here. Even while checking each other with a look, they wondered whether the human would come their way if they escaped by dispersing left and right. “Haa, haa... It looks like that human threw away his weapon. He isn’t holding anything in his hands anymore.” Once one of the demons said so after having looked behind with a glance, the other also turned back for just an instant and confirmed Hifumi’s state. “You are right...” “Won’t the two of us be able to somehow manage if that weapon is gone?” The other soldier thought about that suggestion while running. The figure of the human, I had seen with a glance before, has a small size compared to career soldiers like us if I think about it calmly. If he has decided to abandon even his weapon which is able to cut to a terrifying degree and if it’s successful for either of us to pin him down, the victory will be likely decided with only that much. “... Got it. Let’s stop while matching our timing. Please dispose of him somehow after I have restrained that guy.” “Let’s start right away as long as we have stamina remaining”, the soldiers implement their idea immediately. “Let’s go... now!” The soldier next to him drew his sword while turning around while the soldier, who made the suggestion to intercept, released a fireball. “What!?” “Too slow.” (Hifumi) Avoiding the fireball by jumping, Hifumi hit each of the two’s faces, who are dumbfounded, with both hands. Making a muffled sound, one each of both’s eyeballs rupture due to the impact. “Gyaaa!” “Guu!” The soldier, who cast the magic, moreover received a kick at the moment of landing and his right leg was roughly torn to pieces. The soldier, who barely resisted by not releasing his sword, desperately swings his sword within his narrow field of vision. “Okay, it would have been great if you had done so from the beginning if you are able to fight.” (Hifumi) While avoiding the sword, which is repeatedly swung vertically and horizontally, with movements similar to swaying left and right, Hifumi smiled slightly delightfully. Deciding to ignore the pain of his eye for the time being, the soldier focussed on dealing with the danger currently in front of his eye. Although he is tired from having run, he still plants his legs and loins firmly. Kicking off the hard ground, he stepped forward to overpower Hifumi with strength. During that time the other soldier ran away while moaning in pain and limping, but without turning his eyes that way, Hifumi stands in front of the soldier who displayed his ability and intent to fight. The demon soldier, who is one head taller, swings down the sword he held over his head with all his might and moreover wields it sideways even when his previous strike has been avoided. Letting that slash go past by lowering his stance, Hifumi chased the hand holding the sword while straightening his body and struck it. “Unu?” With the brandished sword’s speed being raised, the body of the soldier, who missed his chance to stop the sword, makes a full turn. Grabbing the exposed back of his neck, Hifumi pulled him with the soldier being in a state of looking up. “See you.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who just saw that the soldier’s head was at a place littered with stones, trampled down on the demon’s forehead with all his strength and smashed his head. Scattering grey matter, the soldier died after several convulsions. “Well then, there’s one left, but... mm?” (Hifumi) The ears of Hifumi, who tried to go searching for the survivor while wondering whether he is still alive, heard the sound of a horse’s hooves hitting the ground. “Haa, that was nice. They caught up...” (Hifumi) It was Pheres, who had a worn-out expression, and the one who was riding while clinging to her hips was Nyal who had the katana thrust in front of her eyes before by Hifumi. “Hey, get off.” (Pheres) “My butt hurts~...” (Njal) Continuing after Nyal who descended from the horse while complaining incessantly, Pheres got off the horse as well and bowed her head towards Hifumi. “We came to deliver a message from Captain... Vepar-sama.” (Pheres) “T-This...” (Njal) Receiving the parchment timidly held out by Njal, Hifumi checked its contents on the spot. It contained thanks mixed with sarcasm for the matter of him having cooperated at the time of her ascension to the throne and for the situation where she was going to be killed by her subordinates who had temporarily become hostile towards Vepar, like Pheres and Njal. And it continues with her recommendation for him to depart from the demons’ territory in the following sentence. “*Sigh* A thank-you-letter and a recommendation for departure has been lumped together.” (Hifumi) The two girls waited patiently even while being scared until Hifumi finished reading.magic Folding the document, he tosses it into his darkness storage. The girls stare in wonder due to the rare darkness attribute and his speed in invoking the spell. “I understood Vepar’s point. Since I planned to leave anyway, there’s no particular problem with that.” (Hifumi) Nyal showed an easily understandable expression of relief due to Hifumi’s words while Pheres assessed Hifumi with a yet still tense expression. “Let me tell you something nice. The barrier imprisoning you lot doesn’t exist anymore.” (Hifumi) As she has a honest nature, Njal floats an expression full of joy, but Pheres’ is still stiff. “Why do you know that?” (Pheres) “I heard it in the elven village. If you ponder about it normally, it’s probably because they have escaped while taking the lot, who maintains the barrier, along... The wind is blowing from the forest. The barrier likely doesn’t function anymore.” (Hifumi) “Are you a friend of the elves? Because you are a pawn of the elves, you have killed this many demons...” (Pheres) Pheres gaze is restinng on the demon soldier who had been killed before. “I have nothing to do with them. Demons, elves, beastmen and humans, if they become my enemies, they will be killed. You too, will you also draw your weapons in front of me? Will you aim for my life with magic if you are able to use magic besides healing magic?” (Hifumi) “... I will pass on that. I don’t want to square off against a person who seems to be laughing even while making an enemy out of the world. However, I will express my gratitude for the matter of you having rescued Vepar-sama. Thank you very much.” (Pheres) “You were also in the group who ambushed her though.” (Hifumi) “I wasn’t aware that she was the target. Although I was unable to do anything at that time, I have the intention to properly serve Vepar-sama from now on.” (Pheres) Bowing once, Pheres matched her sight with Hifumi’s. “I have no other talent but healing magic. Thus I’m unable to fight with you. However, I’m capable of saving my comrades.” (Pheres) “I see, that’s something valuable. Go for it, it will be fine if you help Vepar.” (Hifumi) “There’s something I don’t understand. What’s your reason for assisting the rise of Vepar-sama while having killed the king and this many demons?” (Pheres) Voicing out her question, Pheres looks at him properly and trembles only a bit. In her back Njal clutched Pheres clothes with an obviously frightened expression. “It’s tuning.” (Hifumi) “Tuning?” (Pheres) “The one called Agathion? That guy was strong. He was a fellow who was able to give permission to a plan, which put the life of his subordinate at risk, without a single change in his expression. If that person appeared on the world’s stage, he would probably finish off the elves, beastmen and humans one-sidedly. But, if it’s Vepar, who considers her comrades, including her own strength as well, it will become the best balance if she forms an alliance with the beastmen considering the number if it’s the humans, the size of the group if it’s the beastmen lot and the wisdom of the elves, but... anyway, I was able to tune things for the sake of a long battle with this.” (Hifumi) “It was difficult, you know”, with Hifumi looking in the far distance, Pheres began to tremble for a different reason. “Long battle, you say? You don’t mean...” (Pheres) “I thought that I’d like you to go to war with the guys who are able to fight. It’s no good if the fighting strength is too overwhelmingly biased. It will somehow finish with all of it being occupied and that’s boring.” (Hifumi) He places the katana, he took out from his storage, at his waist and adjusts its position. “The demons won’t be able to suppress their desire of wanting to leave once they learn that the barrier vanished. Humans seem to instinctively have feelings of fear and rejection towards demons, elves and beastmen. Beastmen like to fight to begin with. If there are still cities of elves and beastmen, they have to fight the foreign enemies and win to keep that fragile relationship.” (Hifumi) “I was able to prepare the stage”, Hifumi nodded in satisfaction. “W-Why are you doing such thing...?” (Pheres) “Hmm? I have no particular reason. However, it’s because I will be able to enjoy the battles if it turns out like this. If everyone is fighting for dear life, this world will develop as result, too. If it develops, the battles will become even fiercer. That feels pleasant, right?” (Hifumi) Pheres can’t say anything anymore due to Hifumi’s reply. “If someone somewhere pulls the trigger hereafter, the battles will probably spread slowly from there. I have moved in order for it to turn out like this. That means, from here on it’s the preparatory phase. I don’t know how long it will last though.” (Hifumi) Swallowing her saliva with a gulping sound, Pheres bid farewell in a hurry, mounted the horse in panic, pulled up Njal placing her in the back and galloped towards the castle. “Well then, let’s get ready myself as well, I guess?” (Hifumi) He headed in the opposite direction of Pheres. Facing the residence of the elves, Hifumi set out.

The ones, who were ridiculed at the reviewing meeting were Alyssa, Imeraria and Sabnak. “Alyssa, you should have left the safety zone to confirm the situation. If you had done that, you would likely have noticed that big one appearing as well. Sabnak, it was good of you to rush in after having the spears fired, but leaving behind the infantry in your desire for speed was a mistake. You should have applied frontal pressure over there with everyone.” (Hifumi) Those were the general outlines. He explained while drawing lines on the ground and giving examples. Matters regarding Imeraria were last. “Move after you have grasped what you can and cannot do yourself.” (Hifumi) Being told only that, there was no further advice for her. After the dissolution of the meeting, when Hifumi, who finished his lunch, lied down at a suitable space, Alyssa came while bringing along the soldiers from Fokalore. Origa looks at the situation silently while having Hifumi rest his head on her lap. “What’s up?” (Hifumi) “T-Tonight I plan to enter Horant... please, give me your permission.” (Alyssa) Once Alyssa bowed her head, the soldiers, who were lined up behind her, also raised their voices with a 「Please!」 all at once. “Alyssa, even though you have failed to that extent...” (Origa) “Well, wait a moment.” (Hifumi) Hifumi held back Origa, who tried to warn her with a voice trembling with anger, while raising his left hand which was covered by a glove. Hifumi, who lifted his own body all of a sudden, looks at Alyssa while sitting. “What’s your plan?” (Hifumi) “We will silently infiltrate by passing the border in darkness and burn the enemies’ facilities. On this occasion we will confirm whether there are others of those huge enemies, the total number of enemies and how many weapons they possess.” (Alyssa) “Only that?” (Hifumi) Alyssa nodded at Hifumi’s words without showing any hesitation. “Even if we fight as is, we won’t know what’s beneficial and what’s no good. First we have to gather intelligence, I believe.” (Alyssa) Originally, at the time when the armed forces of Fokalore were founded by Hifumi, Alyssa had been entrusted with an unit for the sake of reconnaissance. She had also received training with that in mind. As result of that, she succeeded in operations such as luring in Balzephon at the royal castle. While being scolded by Hifumi for around hours, she has pondered how to accomplish her revenge. Hearing the words told to Imeraria, that she ought to do the things she can do, from the side, she put stress on grasping the opponent first. If it was infiltration operations, Fokalore’s feudal army had done those many times at the time of breaking into Vichy. “So, why set fire then?” (Hifumi) “Uumm, it’s in order to make sure that they won’t realize that documents and such have disappeared and to decrease the number of the enemies’ weapons a bit. Afterwards I want to confirm the contents ((of those documents)), such as their number of people, by smoking them out with a fire.” (Alyssa) Hifumi gently smiles at Alyssa who explained while counting the points on her fingers. “I see. In that case it’s fine for you to do as you like. However, this time I won’t come to rescue you.” (Hifumi) “Alright! I will do it properly!” (Alyssa) “Be that as it may”, Hifumi, who stood up, surveys the lined-up soldiers. “You lot had a pale face thinking that it’s unfair to infiltrate or attack during the night at the assault on Arosel, right?” (Hifumi) Especially the senior soldiers among the men are showing a bitter smile due to Hifumi’s words. “Lord-sama, please forgive us for those days.” “After coming here with director and my friends, I changed my thinking completely. I don’t want to die in vain. Above all... I won’t die until I have avenged my friends no matter what method I have to use!” “Right?”, once he appeals to his colleagues, all of them simultaneously replied in throaty voices. “Besides, some time ago even director went through danger. I will never forgive them for that!” The contents, mentioned by several soldiers, were in the beginning about the revenge for Ma Calme’s unit, but gradually their anger towards revenge for injuring Alyssa is increasing. They eyes of Origa, who listened behind Hifumi, became completely freezing. “Well, it’s fine if you have the backbone to actually go for the kill. So, what do you intend to do if that big one appears again? Hitting in revenge and being trampled down by that revenge?” (Hifumi) “Uh-oh, Lord-sama, we ain’t idiots. We have decided on reliable countermeasures. We intend to go borrowing just a little tool though.” What the soldier, who grinned broadly, pointed at was something the soldiers of Orsongrande had built in a corner of the defence encampment. “I see.” (Hifumi) Even Hifumi gave his permission while floating a similar grin. ☺☻☺ “The way things are going it’s hopeless!” (Imeraria) Lifting her face, which had traces of tears remaining, from the cushion she clung to, it was Imeraria, who raised a loud voice, after two hours had passed which were used by her to recover from being scolded by Hifumi. “Y-Your Majesty, that... blunt way of talking...” The maid, who was waiting on her at the side, calls out to Imeraria while being startled. “Ah, s-sorry. Did I surprise you, I wonder?” (Imeraria) “No, rather than that, let’s fix your make-up. And, lunch has been prepared.” , recalled the event of her crying and blushed as that probably completely messed up the make-up which had been applied on her properly albeit only thinly. “Then, please, go ahead. Sorry for showing you my disgraceful side.” (Imeraria) Standing up from the the collapsible-style couch, which was placed in the tent, Imeraria left behind the cushion. The one who gave her an answer wasn’t the maid in front of her but a woman who entered while bringing a tray with a meal on it. “As I was able to see the tear-stained face of Her Majesty, that’s plenty for me.” “... Shibyura-san. Why are you here?” (Imeraria) The one who pours tea from a pot for the bewildered Imeraria after placing the tray on the table in an aloof manner is Shibyura who is the daughter of Prime Minister Adol and Sabnak’s wife. Her appearance of being clad in an apron dress indicates her working in the castle as maid without change. “I came to deliver a bento to my husband.” (Shibyura) “Expressly to a battlefield, you mean?” (Imeraria) Wiping the traces of her tears with a clean handkerchief she received from the maid, Imeraria sat down with a stunned expression. “Yes, at the same time it’s for the sake of checking whether my husband is unfaithful. I met him just now, but I’m satisfied after seeing his depressed look after a long time. Did you know? The time when my husband is downhearted after failing is when his face is the cutest.” (Shibyura) “You are saying something heartless with a serious look... Besides, Sabnak isn’t the kind of man to be unfaithful.” (Imeraria) This being a place called battlefield, Imeraria’s meals were simple as well. This is also something she has instructed to be handled in this way. Even so, compared to the soldiers, her meals were quite decent. Biting off a mouthful of bread with roasted meat in-between, she chews it slowly and gulps it down. “So, you came here as you have some kind of business, didn’t you?” (Imeraria) “Since I heard by chance that Hifumi-sama made Your Majesty cry, I have visited for a chat while wondering whether you are troubled by your unrequited love.” (Shibyura) “If you don’t put an end to it, I will assign a second wife to Sabnak-san.” (Imeraria) “I brought a handwritten letter.” (Shibyura) Being given the letter which appeared from within a pocket of her skirt, Imeraria had a headache. “That’s not how you treat a handwritten letter, now is it...? In the first place, isn’t this the sort of thing that is delivered by some knight?” (Imeraria) “Since Vaiya-san was incidentally searching for a knight to deliver this at the time I was cleaning the workplace of my husband, I threa... asked him to have the privilege to keep it in my custody as it will turn into a great excuse. Father prepared the fastest carriage for me.” (Shibyura) “A handwritten letter in such way... let’s cut Vaiya-san’s pay.” (Imeraria) “Oh my, how pitiable.” (Shibyura) , Imeraria opened the handwritten letter while eating even though she was aware of that being bad manners. “... It looks like Nelgal-sama’s sheltering was a success. A petition... it is? This isn’t for me but something that should be handed over to Hifumi-sama and Alyssa-san.” (Imeraria) “Oh my, it’s not a love letter then.” (Shibyura) “What are you talking about...?” (Imeraria) Imeraria sighed deeply while drinking black tea. “I guess so. After all Your Majesty’s heart belongs to Earl Tohno. Strange interference is strictly forbidden.” (Shibyura) Imeraria’s arms tremble shaking the black tea, which decreased to around half of the cup. “F-From where did you hear s-such completely u-untrue story...” (Imeraria) “Oh my, it’s being rumoured among the maids of the royal castle as being plausible.” (Shibyura) “It’s a famous story that you left to the front planning to show your good side to Earl Tohno”, Shibyura nonchalantly explains. “W-Who ((spreads)) such a story...?” (Imeraria) “Of course that’s me.” (Shibyura) “Bufu!” The maid unintentionally spouted out due to Shibyura who declared that. Imeraria, who barely placed the cup on top of the table without spilling any black tea with her trembling hands, glared at Shibyura in front of her. “T-That’s truly unpleasant. At any rate, if you already finished your business here, return to the capital at once. This place is a battlefield. Stories of love affairs and such are unnecessary.” (Imeraria) “Your Majesty, there’s no necessity for being in the same arena as the gentleman. Rather, the things the gentleman, you aim for, can’t do will stand out. Being attracted by the opposite gender, who possesses something the gentleman himself doesn’t have, such kind of story is...” (Shibyura) “Leave!” (Imeraria) “Well then, I will go back after teasing my husband for a bit longer”, Shibyura calmly said and left the tent. “... Somehow I got very tired all of a sudden.” (Imeraria) After that, at the time when she was pondering about the future steps, a message from Alyssa, which stated that she would do a night attack, arrived and Imeraria showed an even more worn-out expression. ☺☻☺ Horant’s side of the border is in quite the chaotic state even as the day comes to an end. Is that the impact of this morning’s defeat? Several sentries are coming and going even on top of the roof at the lodging house for the border guard of Horant’s side, but it doesn’t look like they notice Hifumi who is hiding in a shadow created with the practical application of darkness magic in a dark corner. (I came a bit too fast here. I’m bored.) While eating a sandwich with some grilled meat and vegetables in-between he was made to bring along by Origa, he simply waits for Alyssa’s group to come attacking. The night attack, which was reported by Alyssa, was at first rejected by Sabnak and Imeraria. There’s also the possibility that a powerful weapon existing on Horant’s side with whom they battled during the morning. Just because it’s a night attack, that doesn’t mean that they will be able to launch a surprise attack successfully. However, on top of Alyssa having already decided to do so, she didn’t yield while stating that it’s an operation for the sake of investigating that “possibility.” In the end Imeraria eventually gave her permission. The conditions were that the objectives would be purely investigation and disturbance, that they wouldn’t invade deeply into Horant and that they would share all of the information with Imeraria and Sabnak. “It might be considered to be cowardice, but please ((stick to those conditions)). In all honesty, we want information as well. Originally we would want to choose a safer method though.” (Imeraria) “Seeing that I can’t even provide an alternate plan, I’m not able to oppose yours too strongly either”, Imeraria spilled. “I will ponder about the things I can do myself. Right now I can’t formulate anything concrete, but it will be plenty with the things we can comprehend from your information, Alyssa-san. Although it’s strange for me, who failed, to say so, but please return safely.” (Imeraria) Once Imeraria grasped Alyssa’s hand and shook it firmly, she saw off Alyssa leaving the tent and going away to prepare the soldiers, she will take along, in succession. Sabnak quietly approached Hifumi who silently watched that situation. “Hifumi-san, Alyssa is in quite the high spirits somehow, but did something happen?” (Sabnak) “Despite appearances that person is desperate, I guess. She couldn’t even return aanny of the pain inflicted to her colleagues.” (Hifumi) “Rather than that,” Hifumi glared at Sabnak. “Your wife told Origa something, so what did you whisper into her ears?” (Hifumi) “Eh? Shibyura did?” (Sabnak) Sabnak, who sweated heavily with a shocked* face, says that he doesn’t know anything. “N-No sooner than her coming to such place all of a sudden, I was thoroughly ridiculed for today’s blunder... Did Origa-san say anything?” (Sabnak) “Don’t know. She strangely follows me about while saying “What are those enviable... no, isn’t it fine in that case then?” (Sabnak) “No, as expected it’s irritating. Leaving that aside, I will borrow a tent since I’m going to sleep in preparation for the night.” (Hifumi) Sabnak smiled at Hifumi who headed to the place where the materials are stored while waving his hand lightly. “Will you accompany Alyssa-san?” (Sabnak) “No, I’m just going to watch.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who even turned around once again, showed a smile, but it contained a different meaning from Sabnak’s smile. “She is a fellow I tried to train after picking her up. I want to confirm whether she has turned into a success or a failure.” (Hifumi) “Whether the battle from now on becomes enjoyable; I intend to judge that by watching the execution of Alyssa’s operation”, Hifumi goes away. “Hifumi-san...” (Sabnak) There’s something Sabnak can imagine vaguely. It’s the expectation that Hifumi likely wants to watch whether the thing, he created himself, is broken flashily. I wonder what will be broken at that time? Fokalore’s soldiers, this country or this world? How far has the destruction to spread for Hifumi to be satisfied? What will Hifumi do after he ended up breaking it? “Even if I ponder about it, it’s something inevitable, but...” (Sabnak) Sabnak’s thinking arbitrarily producing only frightening imaginations made himself anxious.

Phyrinion saw women and men of all ages frantically studying at the Lord’s mansion in Fokalore while clinging to their desks. They brought in a large amount of desks and chairs into one of the particularly large party halls within the Lord’s mansion. There you could find the city representatives, who changed their allegiance from Vichy to Orsongrande, as well as their civil official candidates. Furthermore there were the staff members expected to be employed by the Tohno territory, which held formal recruitments. All of them eagerly struggled hard to comprehend the details of the texts they were given, sometimes raising their hands to have the staff in charge explain it to them. “Uwa...” (Phyrinion) The civil officials serving the royal castle and the knight orders were simply employed by referral without having to do something like examinations. Therefore it was the first time Phyrinion witnessed such a sight and she couldn’t help but feel out-of-place here. Next to her is Brokra, who has accompanied her as guiding civil official. Due to Caim being busy continuing the work at hand, he had been assigned as substitute in charge of looking after her. “At the beginning, when we were purchased by Hifumi, we were told to study the subjects concerning the planned administration of the fief’s land. Since we were employed without minding our blood-lines and social ranks, they will succeed, if they are able to show that they understood the things they studied here by passing the employment examinations.” (Brokra) “It has nothing to do with social status, so that means...” (Phyrinion) “Yes, even orphans and former residents of the slums will be employed if they are capable to show their abilities after having been taught writing as applicants. If one doesn’t have confidence in learning, there is also the choice of entering the army. To begin with, aren’t our leading civil officials slaves?” (Brokra) Brokra laughs smiling with his whole face. But, looking at the city’s state of affairs and the financial affairs, they are far superior than civil officials of other nobles “Please understand that our work is to manage the territory quite efficiently and to prepare an environment, where our Lord can take his liberties. I’d like you to comprehend this as well, Phyrinion.” (Brokra) “Yes, I also intend to more or less grasp the situation concerning the Tohno earldom.” (Phyrinion) “That would be great. Then, this way, please.” (Brokra) Brokra invites Phyrinion to a place in the corner of the study hall with splendid desks prepared and only few others being there. “Well, first memorize the contents of these documents, please. This is a document summarizing the fundamental management policies and tax systems of the fief’s territory and this is a report of the incomes and expenditures up until now.” (Brokra)magic “Please freely use the parchment over here. If it isn’t sufficient, feel free to take some more from the stacked pile over there. It’s also possible to refill the ink there. Since it is Hifumi-sama’s policy to learn by writing, go ahead with memorizing by copying them, please.” (Brokra) “What?” (Phyrinion) Sitting while gazing at it in shock, Brokra smiles gently as Phyrinion doesn’t know what would be good to say with the documents being stacked up rapidly in front of her eyes. “Please do your best because I have been instructed by Hifumi-sama to have you return if you aren’t as capable as the other civil officials. Please call out to one of the staff members being alternately in charge of the venue at the moment you want to resign midway, okay?” (Brokra) Brokra quickly left the dumbfounded Phyrinion as he has to attend to other work. “... Krinola.” (Phyrinion) “Yes, ojou-sama.” (Krinola) Just as her, Krinola seemed to also be unable to follow the situation and was showing a face filled with surprise when Phyrinion called out to her. “Please make some tea for me.” (Phyrinion) “Understood. Because I have to go get hot water, um...” (Krinola) “There is no other choice but to do it. If I run from here, I will become quite the laughingstock.” (Phyrinion) Krinola bowed towards Phyrinion, who faced the prepared documents. ☺☻☺ The Second Knight Order’s captain, Stiffels, remained alone in the troop’s assembly hall and considered the current situation. After the First Knight Order’s captain, Ribezal, came intruding earlier and caused a suspension of the war council, the present state turned into a harmless and inoffensive situation of observing the movements of Horant closely. “But, if Horant doesn’t make a move as it is...” (Stiffels) According to the information brought by the First Knight Order the war in the Vichy area has more or less mostly calmed down. They are expecting that it will be possible to make quite the advantageous post-war agreements due to the complete victory of Orsongrande or rather by Hifumi’s activities and the Third Knight Order’s assistance. If it’s like this, Horant’s army, who draws their justification from the cooperation with Vichy, will withdraw. Naturally the Second Knight Order will have to withdraw as well since they will lose their reason to be here. As result, there won’t be any military gains either. “If it stays like this, only that man and the princess will be able to obtain results. It will probably become difficult to gather support for the prince. It isn’t even funny that the nobles, waiting and seeing how the wind blows, have already started to change their loyalties to the princess’ faction...” (Stiffels) No matter what it takes, I want to cause a concluded situation of “The Vichy area was settled by Hifumi’s great efforts” and “The Horant area was settled by the Second Knight Order’s great effort.” But, if Horant retreats slowly, Hifumi will show up here. “All of them are just nuisances.” (Stiffels) He agitates the sake while complaining. At the time the alcohol scorched his throat, he suddenly hit on a good idea. “Ah that’s how it is... There is no need to have only the Second Knight Order shoulder everything. Besides, the evaluation of recapturing is always higher than defending if it’s about accomplishments...” (Stiffels) If he were in a calm state of mind, he might have considered other plans as well. If he had consulted with someone else, he might have come up with an even more simple strategy. However his cornered mind steered the rudder onto an extreme course. “Anyone there? Go and call the vice-captains!” (Stiffels) Within Stiffels’ head scenes of himself being thanked by the populace and Earl Biron dying on the battlefield took shape. “Yo! yo! I am the Viscount Kamoss household’s...” (Kamoss) Hifumi interrupted the introductory words of the young noble, clad in armor, by waving his hand. “S-Shut up?!” (Kamoss) “Make it clear whether you have some business with me or whether you are hindering me.” (Hifumi) Currently Hifumi has gone ahead leaving the troops behind. With only Origa following him, he has ordered the troops to pursue after him leaving all command to Alyssa. If he doesn’t hurry to Horant, the war will end. The hurrying Hifumi isn’t even able to conceal his irritation towards the man, leading around soldiers on the highway, who are now on alert. “I-I am a person related to the Second Knight Order’s captain. The Horant area is the Second Knight Order’s stage! Although you are the princess’ favorite, don’t try to do something despicable as snatching the achievements of others. As far as I can see there is only the two of you heading there. Certainly you don’t believe that you will be able to push your way through by sheer force... Hey, w-wait... !” (Kamoss) Hifumi, tired of the long speech, challenges Viscount Kamoss to battle by galloping on his horse. Although the route was obstructed by the two confused guards on both sides of the viscount, Hifumi drew his katana and killed them in one go. “Hi, Hii, why...” (Kamoss) While glaring at the frightened viscount who was shedding tears, Hifumi cold-heartedly said over his shoulders, “Because they were a hindrance.” (Hifumi) “Gyaa!” (Kamoss) Swinging down the katana faster than he finished to speak, he diagonally split open Viscount Kamoss’ face. While spilling blood and flesh, the corpse fell down from the horse. Both his hands are bent into a ridiculous direction without him even twitching anymore. The shocked soldiers, seeing how Hifumi killed the viscount without even a shred of hesitation, are furthermore assaulted by brutal wind blades. With Origa having her right arm pointing towards them, further two, three people die being cut through in the same manner. “If you want to survive, run. Escape by running. Those I manage to catch up with, will die. Simple, ain’t it?” (Hifumi) “Now, let’s start”, as Hifumi said this, the soldiers discarded their weapons and started to run away. “Origa, hurry up!” (Hifumi) “Yes, I understood.” (Origa) While putting several of the escapees to the sword by riding alongside the highway, Hifumi heads towards the battlefield. (If I don’t hurry, my share of killing will decrease!) In a sense, even Hifumi became impatient. “This way.” (Beirevra) Secretly leaving the village, Ribezal was brought close to the border by Beirevra. A place with a steep cliff became visible. “Isn’t there just a cliff here? At such location...” (Ribezal) “Well, please watch.” (Beirevra) As Beirevra wheezed with a short whistle, one part of the cliff moved and a single magician came out from within. He wore a fine dark blue robe. His face couldn’t be seen as it was concealed by the hood. “As I pondered who it might be, Beirevra, huh?” (Magician) Ribezal unintentionally relaxes his mind due to the unexpectedly young voice of the magician. “Aye, going by the report previously dispatched, Vichy has absolutely no chance at winning by now. As soon as they were defeated, they escaped...” (Beirevra) Beirevra bows his head repeatedly. “So, that man is...” (Magician) “He seems to be the First Knight Order’s captain, Ribezal.” (Beirevra) “Are you someone from Horant? The talks concerning the magic tools... oof?!” (Ribezal) Ribezal stepped up brushing Beirevra aside. He began to talk to the magician, but was unable to continue his word till the end. With Beirevra grasping a magic tool in his hands, his consciousness faded away. “Beirevra, why didn’t you make him faint from the beginning?” (Magician) “Please forgive me. I simply wouldn’t have been able to carry an adult clad in armor up to here. Also, if I carried this man within the village, I would be arrested without a doubt.” (Beirevra) Smiling bitterly, Beirevra bound Ribezal’s hands and surveyed the vicinity. “By the way, are the others done?” (Magician) “Currently all of them have left for another matter. Leaving that aside, as long as you accept me in Horant, I will also obey your next order.” (Beirevra) The magician passed the decree by throwing it on the ground. It was containing a plan of invading Münster by using Ribezal as puppet caused by the effect of the magic tool. “Of course, now that you picked it up, you are to show your utmost effort in serving Horant.” (Magician) “... Well, fine. If I betray you, you will simply kill me. Apart from that, I want to finish installing the magic tool before this guy wakes up. Let’s strip off the armor.” (Beirevra) “Aye.” (Magician) Rolling the fainted Ribezal over so that he faced upwards, Beirevra skilfully removed the armour while the magician took out a magic tool from within his pocket. It resembled the magic tool that was used by the rampaging person, who Hifumi killed, quite a lot. “Is this the aforementioned improved version... ?” (Beirevra) “Ah, if you use this, it will strengthen the body. He will become a puppet devoid of any human emotions. We already brought the drawback of going on a rampage under control. If you smear this magic tool in blood beforehand, he will listen to what the owner of that blood says.” (Magician) “That’s amazing.” (Beirevra) “Spread your blood on it. Only the two of us, you and me, will be able to use this guy.” (Magician) Receiving a knife and the magic tool, Beirevra was bewildered. “Is that really alright?” (Beirevra) “Accomplish the plan by returning to Münster with this guy. I will be the guardian.” (Magician) “Understood.” (Beirevra) In the end Ribzal didn’t wake up until the magic tool was attached. “Put your name under the document, right away.” (Hifumi) “What are you talking about after suddenly turning up here?” (Imeraria) Hifumi, who dropped by at the royal castle for a short visit en route to Münster, visited Imeraria’s office without any kind of tact. And, entering the room, the only words he uttered were an order. “We received attacks by soldiers dispatched from nobles of the prince faction times from Fokalore to here. Furthermore it was only weak scum.” (Hifumi) “Such a degree, it doesn’t sound like significant hindrance to deal with for someone like Hifumi.” (Imeraria) “It’s troublesome since they only come out in small numbers. I can’t even feel good killing all of them.” (Hifumi) “That’s how it usually is. So, what kind of document are you asking me to draw up?” (Imeraria) Imeraria, resigning herself, advanced the subject of the complaining Hifumi, with whom she couldn’t sympathize at all. “Propagate that you have decided to hold your coronation once Horan’t side has calmed down. Make a large quantity of letters aimed at the nobles. Tell them to come to the castle and demonstrate their feelings of allegiance.” (Hifumi) “Why are you in such a hurry? Furthermore, if I do such thing, won’t there be an unnecessary increase in people hindering Hifumi-sama?” (Imeraria) “Have the nobles, who are already attached to you, sign it. It’s also fine if you use my name. Also write that their territories will be confiscated, if they don’t approve. In case they still refuse, it will be easy to crush them as we would be able to distinguish by where they are from. And, it will also be good, if you put in that your younger brother steps back from the center stage of politics due to sickness.” (Hifumi) “... Understood, if that kid understands and steps back because of that, that kid’s life will be...” (Imeraria) Imeraria turns her eyes towards Hifumi, who tries to leave having said all that he had to say, as if cling onto him. “As he is your brother, let’s pray that he isn’t that much of a fool.” (Hifumi) The maid entered carrying the black tea crossing paths with the leaving Hifumi. “I’m very sorry. The black tea wasn’t in time.” (Maid) Turning towards the bowing maid, Imeraria, with a worn-out smile, told the maid that she wanted only her own share and asked her that she wanted her to come back. “I will write letters from now on. Since I want to request some of the knights to carry them, would you please summon them?” (Imeraria) “Certainly!” (Maid) There should be no way for him to not comprehend his own position since that kid also received education as royalty

If you describe a shinigami in a few words, it gains its power of existence by being feared and it’s recognised as god-like damned being which gathers its energy from “people dying.” As such the shinigami appeared in the room, where Reni and Helen are living, before going to Vepar’s place as told by Hifumi. “That means for Hifumi-san you beastmen are completely managing this city and I believe that he wants you to take defensive measures within all of Swordland, including the humans as well.” “I see.” “Is that true, I wonder...?” Reni and Helen were cautious of the shinigami, who suddenly appeared out of thin air, in the beginning, but once Hifumi’s name is mentioned, they agree groundlessly while thinking Thus the two listened to the shinigami‘s explanation while rubbing their sleepy eyes, but what came out of the shinigami‘s mouth were flowery words towards Reni and Helen, how Hifumi is evaluating them, to gain total control of the remaining human area by demonstrating their intelligence and that they should make their own country in its true meaning. “You say that easily, but there are still many humans. Don’t ask for something impossible while even our own livelihood hasn’t yet stabilized.” “What are you talking about. Haven’t you increased your manpower with the joining of the elves and moreover haven’t there appeared even people who can use magic among the beastmen?” “Even so, that doesn’t mean we will be able to win if we fight the humans immediately, right? Inviting our mothers isn’t working out well either...” It’s her own statement, but Helen inadvertently ended up hanging her head in shame. The beastmen, who are living in the old slums have tried to invite their old beastmen friends, but there are many who avoid to be even close to the city of man. Although Reni and Helen dispatched messengers, it was difficult to summon their family who were on guard. “If we find an opportunity, sooner or later, it won’t do if we don’t persuade them by ourselves”, the two discussed before going to bed tonight. “Let’s consider it the other way around. If the threat of humans vanishes, won’t you be able to brazenly go meet the other beastmen? Even the people on the slums’ side are mostly separated from their fellow relatives, right?” “That is, true, however...” “Therefore, if you create a peaceful city by trying your best here, the rest will work out as well. The establishing of a tight defence system now that the come-back of the demons is rumoured is also part of your both’s task as representatives of this city, isn’t it?” Helen ended up silent without returning any remarks due to the smooth stream of words. The more she listens to it the more she can believe the point of this skinny man, who calls himself a shinigami, to be correct. However, in Helen’s mind there was a sense of impeding danger of some unknown nature that rebelled against it. Suddenly Helen noticed that Reni hadn’t uttered a single word since some time ago. “Reni, what do you...” (Helen) “Ku~” (Reni) Once Helen looked at Reni, she was sleeping completely like a log while hugging her pillow and loosely sitting on the bed. When she lightly hits her head, Reni opens her eyes in surprise. “Oww!?” (Reni) “Don’t go sleeping care-freely.” (Helen) Helen sighed towards Reni who was somehow awakening while rubbing her eyes. “What do you think?” (Helen) “Mm~... shinigami-san, is Hifumi-san well?” (Reni) “Huh? Yes, he doing very well. He is currently extremely lively due to the matter of causing disputes amongst fellow humans.” Due to the question which suddenly came flying from out of the field, the shinigami opened its eyes widely for an instant but then answers with a smile. “Humans, they usually do nothing but fighting each other, don’t they? And yet they are able to retain such large numbers well.” “So, why are you here, shinigami-san?” (Reni) “As I said, receiving a request from Hifumi-san, I came to give the two of you some advices.” “I se~~e.” Releasing a big yawn, Reni muttered that she understood. “If Hifumi-san has said so, I will try doing my best.” (Reni) “Reni... is that fine?” (Helen) Reni returned a limp smile towards the uneasy Helen. “Splendid! I’m also looking forward to your great efforts, you two!” “Well then”, leaving those words behind, the shinigami completely disappeared like smoke. “Reni...” (Helen) “Let’s sleep, Helen? Tomorrow will be busy again.” (Reni) “To prepare for fighting the humans?” (Helen) “Why?” (Reni) “Why... you say, didn’t we talk about that just now.” (Helen) If it is only that shinigami-san saying it, I have no particular intention to follow it?” (Reni) “Eeh?” (Helen) Reni, who put down the pillow and created a depression by hitting its centre with a *tap-tap*, looked at Helen’s face with drowsy eyes. to us. Until now he had us only do what we wanted to do ourselves. Besides, did he ever order anything?” (Reni) “Now that you mention it...” (Helen) “Therefore.” Playing her head on the pillow, Reni once again covered herself with the thin futon. “Isn’t it alright if we try to do things as we like with everyone? Ah, I’m slightly worried about what he said in regards to the demons.” (Reni) “Let’s consult with the elves tomorrow”, Reni says with a yawn blended in. “We have to make plans.” (Helen) “That’s right. We have to investigate what demon-san’s are eating.” (Reni) “The preparation of the welcome will be difficult, won’t it?” Just like that Reni fell asleep in the blink of an eye. Helen, who ended up completely wide awake, stands up to get some water to drink. “Even though you are intelligent, you are quite carefree.” (Helen) Watching Reni who’s already sleeping peacefully, Helen renewed her intention to do her best together with Reni. She wants to support her important friend. ☺☻☺ It was about night after they went to observe the enemy’s movements when it resulted in a defence encampment being set up between Münster and the border due to the order of Imeraria who heard the story from a soldier. After receiving that order, Sabnak, who wrote down orders to draft up the construction of the encampment at night spurring on his body, which hasn’t recovered from the fatigue of the travel, sighed from the bottom of his heart that it was agreeable for him to not turn up the next day and to play hooky. Immediately following the construction of the encampment which took two full days, the invasion from Horant began. “Great... you can’t say that, but should I say that it’s wonderful that Her Majesty’s decision was quick?” “... Captain, you are very composed.” The young knight, who took off his helmet and wiped away the sweat, looked at Sabnak with a gaze filled with respect. “Even if I were to be impatient, it can’t be helped anyway. We finished all possible preparations.” (Sabnak) The report from the soldiers who continuously monitored the border stated that their opponent has only around infantrymen. Although the figures of magicians and anyone else can’t be seen, it has been confirmed that they are pulling several spear throwers. The encampment, which was laid out by Sabnak against those, has shallow holes to stop horses, nets which were spread all over to hinder the infantry, groups of permanently stationed infantrymen and thirty spear throwers of which the production partially started in the Biron Earldom. “I believe he did well to prepare this many. While being your brother-in-law, he is a great person.” “It was a unit we formed up in a hurry and moreover it wasn’t supposed to be used against anyone but the nobles as opponents. It saved me trouble.” (Sabnak) “He’s proud that he can make the Captain of the Royal Knights at the the peak of his popularity say so.” (Biron) Biron called out to Sabnak’s group, which is talking while staring in the direction from where the enemy is supposed to come, from behind. “B-Brother-in-law-san? It’s planned for you to stay behind in Münster...” (Sabnak) “That was the plan. Because Her Majesty will clearly see her retainers’ manner of fighting at the front, it’s wrong for me, who is her retainer, to stay behind in the territory.” (Biron) “Eh? Her Majesty is...” (Sabnak) Once Sabnak turns around his head with a motion like a rusted mechanical doll, he saw the figure of Imeraria, who is looking in the direction of the border on horse, over Biron’s shoulder. “Y-Your Majesty! Please, retire to the rear!” (Sabnak) “No. There’s no way I can have peace despite everyone fighting desperately. Besides, there’s something I noticed in this time’s case.” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who returned the pipe for seeing at a distance to the pouch at her waist, looks at Sabnak from atop the horse. Her expression was virile and imposing to a degree one would expect from a teenager. “Only watching Hifumi-sama, I wasn’t even aware what kind of effort everyone from the knights and soldiers invested or how much you can fight. That’s why I was looking at a person like Aspilketa lightly.” (Imeraria) “T-That sort of thing is...” (Sabnak) Imeraria, who held back the flustered Sabnak by raising one hand, surveyed the encampment from the horse’s back. A fulcrum is set up there according to the instructions of a knight and a large net has been affixed to it. “What’s that?” (Imeraria) Looking in the direction she pointed at, Sabnak replies, “That’s a curtain to stop the spears of spear throwers, Your Majesty.” (Sabnak) “... Is it alright although it looks like a net? Besides, it looks like it’s dangling a bit without being tightened.” (Imeraria) Seeing the look of the uneasy Imeraria, Sabnak remembered that he had the same reaction when he saw it for the first time. “It’s very likely to be torn if it’s not a net. If it’s stretched out too firmly, it’s also very probably that it will be pierced by the spears... It seems.” (Sabnak) , the words of Sabnak, who thought so while talking, became anticlimactic at the end. “In other words, this is also a suggestion from Hifumi-sama, you are saying?” (Imeraria) “... Indeed, Your Majesty.” (Sabnak) Imeraria, who sighed deeply, muttered “It can’t be helped, I guess.” “Let’s consider it good luck that both sides have that knowledge and not only the enemy’s side and that our side is somewhat ahead in regards to that.” (Imeraria) Given that she surveys the rest by herself, Imeraria advanced with her horse while telling them to hasten their preparations. “Brother-in-law... Earl Biron.” (Sabnak) “Once the battle starts, please withdraw to the rear while taking Her Majesty along even if it’s by force.” (Sabnak) “I will handle it carefully.” (Biron) The wryly smiling Biron and Sabnak shrug their shoulders wile facing each other. The battle began with an exchange of fire between the spear throwers, just as expected by Sabnak, in the afternoon of that day. It was about evening and the battled had finished its first stage when Hifumi’s group and Fokalore’s territorial soldiers arrived in Münster. Due to the somewhat restless air swirling about within the city, Hifumi, who walks while pulling the reins, closes his eyes partly. “It seems like the fighting has already begun.” (Hifumi) Once many soldiers enter the city after getting permission from the guards, the residents face them with looks filled with a mix of expectations and anxieties. Reinforcements are a help. But, they cannot welcome an expansion of the front line.magic “Well then, Alyssa.” (Hifumi) “Yea.” (Alyssa) Alyssa, who looked up at Hifumi’s face directly from the front, gently caressed the wakizashi located in the back on her waist. “It’s fine to do as you like. I will watch.” (Hifumi) Alyssa made changes to the ranks of the soldiers with a single order and headed towards the direction of the border by running fast. The army, which advances while raising clouds of dust, leaves the city without lowering its pace while pulling many tools. The residents, who saw their figures off in blank amazement, understand after seeing the black-haired young man calmly following from behind while mounted on a horse. The army of that Earl Tohno came rushing as reinforcement. The populace was filled with hope due to the army of Fokalore which arrived right after the royal army in spite of originating from the opposite side of the country. “Is that alright?” (Origa) “What is?” (Hifumi) Due to the question of Origa, who lined up her horse next to him, Hifumi turned only his look at her. “Don’t you want to fight as well, dear?” (Origa) Hifumi raised his voice in laughter at Origa who watches him with an uneasy look. “Ahaha! You were worried about such stuff?” (Hifumi) “P-Please don’t laugh. You are concer...” (Origa) While stroking Origa’s head with his left hand, which was covered by a glove, after bringing his horse close, Hifumi skilfully fixed the position of the katana which shifted slightly due to the vibrations of the horse. “Let’s see. I will talk about my real intentions to you.” (Hifumi) Due to Hifumi’s remark, Origa gulps and stares at Hifumi’s face. “I think, if I can go around killing each and every living person, I want to do that. If I can simply kill those in front of me without having to care about anything, I wonder how happy I will be.” (Hifumi) “But”, Hifumi returned his sight to the front. “In that case there will be no future. Of course it will end if I die, but if I ended up killing everyone, what will happen afterwards?” (Hifumi) “That is...” (Origa) “You know, I will be a loner.” (Hifumi) The city, where the sun began to sink, is dyed in madder red. “Therefore, by rapidly increasing those who can fight, I want an enjoyable wagering of lives. Without that I’m not actually feeling alive.” (Hifumi) “I-I am!” (Origa) Hifumi stopped his horse due to Origa suddenly raising her voice. “I will be right next to you until the very end, Hifumi-sama! By all means, please fight with me at the time when all enemies to be killed have vanished. I became strong. I will put in great efforts to get even stronger. Therefore...” (Origa) While making the horse advance again, Hifumi gently stroke Origa’s cheek. “Well, then I will leave it to you at that time. Please become an enemy that’s worth to be killed.” (Hifumi) “Please leave it to me. E-Even I, at the end by your hand... ufufu...” (Origa) Due to Origa spontaneously breaking into a smile thanks to the warmth of the caressed cheek, Hifumi continued his words. “Besides, as I likely won’t fight this time, it’s unnecessary to worry about me.” (Hifumi) “How about if Her Majesty the Queen and Alyssa lose to Horant?” (Origa) “Ah.” (Hifumi) Hifumi hit the scabbard with a sound of a whack. “Well, half of it is no more than anticipation, but maybe it will happen.” (Hifumi) “I see. That’s good.” (Origa) The two leisurely advance through the city at twilight. Their figures might appear as intimate pair of lovers if seen from the side. Even if the place they are heading for is a battlefield.

Returning to the capital and also after completing Imeria’s proposal, there was a huge pile of work waiting for Pajou without giving her the chance to take a day off. It was the place where Hifumi had come previously to enjoy teatime with Pajou and where the dead Gothras had picked a fight with Hifumi. Currently, besides Sabnak and Midas, Pajou had assembled the unit members who more or less knew about Hifumi. “I think that it is a dangerous gamble. At least Vichy hasn’t managed to gather . to .00 soldiers. If they assemble such an amount, it will be unknown whether that man would be able to stop them.” (Midas) Midas listened to the Imeria’s adopted plan following Pajou’s suggestion. After folding his arms and brooding over it for a short while, he clearly stated that it would be dangerous. “Although I understand your anxiety, Midas-senpai, I believe it is a good plan. Even if the military of Fokalore did such a thing like recruiting from the citizens, they won’t surpass 200 either way. No matter how powerful the individual may be, it is pointless with the difference in numbers. Besides, because it isn’t wrong to say that the war was established by Vichy to begin with, it can be said that the part of not particularly antagonizing Hifumi-san is good.” (Sabnak) Sabnak rebutted Midas’ opinion. Going by what was talked about Hifumi, even though the area Hifumi had invaded became unofficially known as “New Territory”, it was decided to call it like that until the current war was settled. As consequence of fulfilling the inhabitants dream of a full day of holiday, they had now become completely full of spirit. Since the plan had been accepted by Imeria in the end, in addition to us having to abide to our duty, it could be said that due to our work we have to watch over the state of affairs. “Rather, I guess no matter the various things said here in relation to the situation, since the plan has already started it’s now too late anyway.” (Sabnak) “That’s not quite so. Besides, we have gathered here to discuss about the work from here on.” (Pajou) “From here on?” (Midas) Seeing that they understood the general state of affairs, Pajou began to talk about the purpose of this gathering. “Although this a not yet fixed prediction, I think that the stage of the peace talks between Imeria-sama and the Vichy representative will likely become Fokalore or Arosel.” (Pajou) The knight unit’s members mostly understood Pajou’s prediction. In the current situation, the only difference would be whether it was the new border or the old border. Everyone could agree that it could become either one depending on the postwar circumstances. “This time the Knight Unit planned to accompany as guards for the peace talks isn’t the First Knight Unit, but us, the Third Knight Unit.” (Pajou) “Us? Not the First or Second?” “Yes. The First Knight Unit feels like challenging Hifumi. We don’t want to unnecessarily provoke him. Furthermore they can’t leave from guarding the royal castle which harbors His Highness the prince... something like that will likely put forth as excuse. The Second Knight Unit has the duty of defending the capital. Since there are also some people among the populace using the cover of guarding such conference to incite something, I think the realm would be weakened if they left.” (Pajou) Even though they were all proud of protecting the royal capital and castle from the shadows, there were only few chances to openly partake in such a big job. Thus it couldn’t be helped that they felt enthusiastic about the chance to display their competency either. But, due to the Pajou’s words following afterwards, everyone’s excitement instantly subsided. “Because royalty will join the conference held by the border, it has been decided that a war potential of several thousands will be taken along, as precaution so to say. And, depending on the circumstances... Hifumi-san will be subjugated.” (Pajou) “Na... what kind of circumstances?” “Of course you are not to tell a word about this to anyone except those gathered in this place. Those are the plans of Imeria-sama. If he is in a situation of having fallen or a critical condition due to being injured after having successfully attacked Vichy, we are to pretend leading military forces from our side as reinforcements and attack him from the rear.” (Pajou) In the room that ended up sinking into silence, Pajou tasted some black tea to moisten her mouth. “Only those members present here will march to that area. After everything is finished, it will be announced that he committed suicide due to being driven into a corner.” (Pajou) “D-Don’t say such absurd things. There is no way that an amount of several people will be able to kill him.” (Midas) Only Midas had seen his appearance as he simply turned the tables on 10 assassins. Even in his imagination he couldn’t see himself standing up to that in front of his eyes. “Of course, if he isn’t in a condition to that degree, since the conference is held for the sake of peace according to the ostensible reason, it will come to a close with the recognition of right to own the territory close to the national border for Hifumi-san. But if the chance presents itself to somehow deal with him as intended by Imeria-sama’s plan, I will also support it.” (Pajou) Although having also been helped during crisis, having participated in joint operations for several days and being nobles of the same country, Imeria and Pajou, rather than seeing him as companion, they regarded Hifumi as dangerous. “Such a...” (Sabnak) “... If that’s Imeria-sama’s wish, then I will obey to it. As for myself, I can only pray that the result will be him settling down in the Viscount territory.” (Midas) Sabnak became speechless due to his considerable feeling of fascination towards Hifumi. Whereas Midas chose to indifferently accept matters. “But, how will you know in what kind of situation he is? We will end up being sensed before we can approach a visible distance, don’t you agree?” (Midas) “As for that, there is a person I thought of asking for cooperation. If it’s her, I don’t expect any problems for her being close to Hifumi-san.” (Pajou) “That is...” (Sabnak) As if he suddenly understood who that person was, Sabnak looked at Pajou with eyes of disbelief. “Because I am quite aware of something like this being called an act going against humanity, don’t look at me with such eyes. But, there was no other plan I could think of either.” (Pajou) No one was able to agree or disagree with Pajou in this situation. The meeting of the Third Knight Unit ended. After Hifumi and the troops arrived at the new border close to Rhone, ten days had passed. During that time large parts of the city Rhone had been restructured leaving only the lodging for the soldiers and the fortress at the newly established border. There was no way that he wouldn’t make use of that. Disregarding the border guards dispatched by the capital with a look of suspicion, Hifumi instructed to make changes all over. No matter how many houses they dismantled, the dwarves and soldiers continued to produce one thing after the other every day even though they didn’t quite understand the unclear explanations. This daily life came to an end on the eleventh day. Worn-out and sullied Debold came to take refuge in Rhone making sure to cling to his horse.magic As he was sheltered by the border guard, immediately a report came in to the person with the highest rank in town, Hifumi. “Ou, you made it back, huh?” (Hifumi) While laughing he clapped the shoulders of the soldier who came to report. “If I remember correctly, wasn’t Debold dispatched to prepare the peace talks?” “Peace? As the central committee of Vichy has no attachment to their fragmented country either, it may be possible to advance the peace talks.” (Hifumi) At the time he held up the the handwritten letter Debold possessed against the sun, Hifumi managed to steal a peek at a part of the contents. He understood that the contents in this situation could be still judged as lukewarm even though one might call them a provocation towards Vichy. “If you thought of that letter being received as means to get along with, I guess that person would have their aspirations being destroyed now.” (Hifumi) Accompanied by Origa, who wore a face full of questions, Hifumi conveyed to Alyssa to start deploying the soldiers for a quasi-war. The soldier who came to report departed the room at a quick pace. In a building, which was formerly a private house being confiscated to be utilized as office, Debold received medical treatment. Debold, whose arms were coiled in bandages, rested on top of a bed. He flared up as soon as he saw the face of Hifumi entering the room. “I-It’s your fault! Because of you I had to suffer like that!” (Debold) Returning Debold to the bed after having grabbed him and kicking him in the belly, Hifumi said in a calm voice. “Concisely report from the start to the end. Since we have to deal with the situation on this side as well. What happened in Vichy? What about the guards that accompanied you?” (Hifumi) Relucantly Debold began to talk. Apparently the guards had been completely annihilated. Debold boldly entered the city Epinaru, where the central committee of Vichy assembled, as messenger. The very same day he obtained the permission to meet with the committee. The next day he was able to talk with each and every member of the committee. He passed the handwritten letter to a member of the committee. During the time while the committee members read it, he talked about what a deeply benevolent person Princess Imeria of Orsongrande was making it inevitable for him to obey as loyal retainer bearing such adoration for her. Rudely throwing back the handwritten letter, they were attacked by the soldiers in the assembly hall, he said. “The committee members of Vichy blamed you, bastard, for coming to this town and slaughtering everyone. No matter whether it was you, son of a bitch, who attacked this town or not, the war will continue as long as Orsongrande doesn’t execute you! You trampled on the kindness of Her Highness... ga?!” (Debold) Hifumi grabbed the head of Debold, who continued running his mouth in wild agitation, and pressed it against the wall. “It is particularly convenient for them to lay the blame on me for destroying this town. I guess all of the guards have been killed. What happened to the chamberlains?” (Hifumi) “I-I don’t know... They remained waiting at the inn because I went to meet the committee... Leaving that aside, r-release me!” (Debold) As he tried to act violently by struggling, Hifumi’s thumb and little finger dug into the temple of the forehead making a grinding sound. Debold didn’t have any strength left due to the pain. Quickly opening it with one hand and checking it, it contained Imeria’s signature without a doubt. Looking through the content it matched with what he had seen when he held it against the sun. “This may have usable value from now on. I will keep it.” (Hifumi) “Bastard, this was entrusted to me by Her Highness... ah... aaahhh!” (Debold) “Your role has come to an end. Since I will play with the guys you lured in from Vichy from now on, an actor who has finished his turn has to promptly leave the stage.” (Hifumi) While saying this, Hifumi steadily raised the strength he put into his hand. His fingers already broke the temple and sank in. “Never! ... St-Stop it, don’t, please sto... gu gi” (Debold) Releasing a wet sound of *gushu* Debold sank into eternal silence. “Origa. The enemy will be here soon. Go to Alyssa’s place and tell her to begin the military operations and to take their stations.” (Hifumi) Origa, who watched Debold’s manner of death calmly, left the room quickly. At the time Hifumi turned his back on the room and left, the soldiers of the border security had already been instructed by Hifumi’s soldiers to take refuge in the fortress. “Well then, Imeria. It appears that during the time I was in Vichy, Lady Luck has visited that fool. Did my calculations go amiss? Or did you foresee until here? At least, the handwritten letter being here must have been unexpected, I guess.” (Hifumi) While storing the handwritten letter in his breast pocket, Hifumi laughed. The Vichy soldiers chasing after Debold reached a number of 300. Knowing the numerical figures of Hifumi’s private army being around 100 soldiers, as they had received the intelligence from a spy, the objective was to move the maximum amount of military forces available to immediately move out. The troops organised and assembled from the committee member’s private armies, although they were lacking leadership, the amount of them was quite excessive for chasing a single enemy. “Soon we will be at the town Rhone.” To the adjutant’s words, the man leading the troops as commanding officer silently nodded. Even though his order was to chase and arrest the fleeing messenger from Orsongrande, if it happens that his prey takes refuge in Rhone, it was also possible to give the excuse that there was no other way but to retake it. For the sake of this excuse, he also kept the speed of the pursuit low, which was the reason why Debold was able to return to Rhone alive. “Though the town has come into view, there don’t seem to be any guards on watch...” “It’s the place they insist on being their national border. I guess they will come out from the other side of that gate. Everyone, draw your swords in preparation for combat! We will slaughter the enemies coming out of the gate in one go!” While listening to the shouts of the soldiers agreeing to his instructions, his expectations got big as he imagined the possibility of him becoming the feudal lord of some city-state if he were to successfully recapture Rhone here. Those expectations pushed the man’s back. The 300 soldiers formed a line and the first of the vanguard rushed into Rhone. When about half of them started running, just as the commanding officer decided to advance on his horse, screams began to arise from the leading group. “What is it!” A messenger ran up from the front. Because of a rope being stretched across the pathway, several soldiers were tripped up and tread on by those following them resulting in casualties. “What foolishness! Don’t they watch what’s below their feet! Tell them to drop the speed of invasion!” Falling from the horse to get buried beneath the horse’s feet, letting alone the disgrace, he would receive serious injuries and in worst case it wouldn’t be unlikely to be killed. Having the wind taken out of their sails, as they slowly advanced into the city with a large number of people, the Vichy soldiers were dumbfounded when they saw the state of the town. Even the commanding officer, who was late in entering, was overcome with surprise seeing the strange scene in front of him. Continuing straight on the main street from the town’s gate, there should have been many flourishing stores when the town was filled with people. It was almost as if telling them that there was only one road in front of them to take. And, far down the road a single man in unusual clothing was standing about 500 meters ahead of the vanguard. The man held a thin weapon you could consider to be a sword in his right hand. The man, standing in a relatively relaxed posture, slowly beckoned them. “Gentlemen of the pursuit party, it’s nice of you to arrive here. It is unnecessary for you to introduce yourselves. Hurry up and come. Since you will be killed anyway.” (Hifumi) Merely a single man recklessly provoking 300 soldiers, the commanding officer gave the order to advance as he laughed scornfully. “There is only a single great utter fool! Kill him immediately and use it as chance for our country to counterattack! Go!” The leading group set up their swords and broke into a run. This was the beginning of the second massacre carried out at the town of Rhone.

The vicinity of the Fokalore’s Lord’s mansion was crowded with the populace taking refuge from the front lines, the territorial soldiers, and staff members guiding them on top of the Third Knight Unit who lead the soldiers of the reinforcements. The staff distributed meals to the populace and aided those with deteriorating health. Gradually the mood changed into it being something along the lines of a festival. Those with a strong business sense erected stalls before anyone noticed. The staff members only arranged the locations of the food stalls and let them freely do business afterwards. “This ought to be a time of war, but what’s with this situation?” (Midas) Advancing on his horse while pushing his way through the masses, Midas’ group finally left the jammed area. “The populace seems to have been kept away from the gate where the battle occurred.” (Young knight) Listening to the report from a young knight who had heard the current state of affairs from the staff members, Midas breathed a sigh. “Did they carefully consider the circumstances of the populace? Or is it because they would simply become a nuisance ... ?” (Midas) , he assessed, but didn’t voice out this thought as he had to hurry going forward on his horse towards the battlefield. While also issuing instructions to all members to draw their swords, he scowled feeling a sense of discomfort. “That’s odd...” (Midas) “What is?” (Young knight) “Don’t you think it’s strangely silent although they should be in combat? Rather, the noise coming from the direction of the Lord’s mansion is a lot more boisterous.” (Midas) “Now that you mention it.” the young knight agreed to Midas’ remark. As they headed towards the actual scene, the horses advanced on the road that had at least a lesser amount of people travelling it. Before long they could see an imposing iron gate at the exit of the city, but the door was widely opened. “! ... Did they break through? However, the enemies are ...” (Young knight) As they were calmly talking with each other, they chopped up the corpses with magic and halberds, gathered them and tossed them into a hole. Drenching them in oil, each pile was burned. Although the intense stench of the burning proteins was to such a degree that Midas had to pinch his nose, the territorial soldiers did it calmly having nothing but a cloth wrapped around the lower part of their faces. Because they observed the relaxed state of the territorial soldiers in front of the mountain of dead bodies, all of the Third Knight Unit following from behind looked at them. All of them uniformly turned blue and some amongst them, not being able to bear the sight, even broke down vomiting. Midas considered it to be pathetic, but it appears that the soldiers and knights from the capital can’t overturn the difference in actual combat experience of the Touno territorial soldiers anymore. When surveying the area, Midas saw a single women, he felt having seen somewhere before, issuing orders to the soldiers. As Midas dismounted from his horse and withdrew his hand from his sword, she apparently noticed him as well. “I am Midas of the Third Knight Unit. We were dispatched as reinforcements, but ...” (Midas) “I am the civil official slave called Miyukare in charge of matters related to military affairs of the Touno territory. Welcome, I am glad that you have come to assist us.” (Miyukare) As Miyukare responded with a bright smile, Midas recalled her to be included in Hifumi’s group of civil official slaves. “I’d like you to inform me about the state of affairs.” (Midas) “The Vichy general is dead. Right about now the remnants of the defeated army are fleeing from the chasing group led by the director of military affairs.” (Miyukare) The battle at Fokalore has ended. All that was now left was simply hunting the remnants of the Vichy army. “Where’s the enemy’s general?” (Midas) “Who knows? I heard he was in some hole. About now he should have been cremated within one of them.” (Miyukare) Midas groaned while curbing the area between his eyebrows. Just like Hifumi, it seems that they, the Touno territorial soldiers and the civil official slaves, don’t care about who and what rank the enemy has in the least. “By the way.” (Miyukare) Miyukare smiled brightly at Midas who was greatly troubled with the situation. “Since it’s about time to finish soon, shouldn’t you rather head towards the mansion?” (Miyukare) “Finish soon? ... What matter is?” (Midas) “Hifumi-sama’s disgusting play, that is.” (Miyukare) Midas’ thoughts froze for an instant. Without saying anything in return, he jumped on top of his horse and rushed towards the Lord’s mansion. Preparing the shuriken, Origa entrusted her back to the wall enduring the pain in her foot. “Kasha, I won’t forgive you ...” (Origa) “Calm down! The Knight Unit has already broken into the mansion. Now that this has happened, Hifumi is already ...” (Kasha) Just as she started to talk, Origa threw her four-sided shuriken tearing Kasha’s shoulder. “Origa, why ... ?” (Kasha) “I won’t bear it anymore. All the more if a Knight Unit had come, I must got to Hifumi-sama’s side.” (Origa) As Origa prepared the next shuriken, Kasha, giving up, grasped the sword’s grip, withdrew it from its scabbard and took her stance. “I will suppress you with sheer strength.” (Kasha) “Give your best trying to do so. I will show you that I am not such a weak woman as you are.” (Origa) Kasha closed the distance bit-by-bit. Origa, having her back against the wall as she couldn’t use her foot, had no other choice but move horizontally along the wall by slithering. Taking care to not cause injuries as much as possible, Kasha wavered which spot she should attack. “Without even having your wand, there is no way for you to defeat me.” (Kasha) “Underestimating the abilities of your opponent like that is a bad habit of yours. Shouldn’t I have warned you many times to not do so?” (Origa) Firing off the second shuriken, she aimed at Kasha’s feet. Kasha jumped to the side while wielding the sword in order to avert the trajectory of the shuriken. In reverse she charged and hit Origa’s flank. “Kuu ...” (Origa) Origa had planned to elude the attack by falling down but her body didn’t move as she thought it would. She wasn’t able to kill the force completely. She collapsed lying upside-down and as Origa was breathing roughly, Kasha lowered her sword. “With this you understand, right? Let’s go together ... I don’t want to do such detestable thing like seriously fighting with Origa.” (Kasha) Origa heavily rotated turning her position facing upwards and silently held out her right hand towards Kasha. “I am glad. Well then, after this, together ...” (Kasha) A sound like grass being cut reverberated. Kasha’s flank has been gouged open by a wind blade. An amount of blood, which would overrun a glass, dropped on the floor. “... Ha?” (Kasha) Because she doesn’t quite understand the visible condition of her own body, Kasha falls to her knees due to the sudden blood loss. Spilling even more blood this way. “Although you don’t even have your wand, why ...?” (Kasha) Looking at Origa with hazy eyes, she saw that the area of the robe around her arms was torn. Around the naked slender forearm leather belt with a fixed knife was coiled. “Following Hifumi’s suggestion, I prepared a hidden knife copying the magicians of Horant. Giving your magician opponent the time to cast a spell was naive.” (Origa) As they finished talking, both, Origa and Kasha, had collapsed on the floor. At the point in time Hifumi stepped into the room entering it, Kasha was at death’s door. with this Hifumi poured a magic potion, with the bottle making a *glug glug* sound, on Origa in order to wake her up. Seeing the unhurt Hifumi in front of her eyes, she misunderstood herself to have died. But, once she looked closely, she could see Kasha lying in a pool of blood. “Ou, you finally woke up.” (Hifumi) “I-I am glad you are healthy?! ... Ah right, Kasha has called a Knight Unit to this mansion ... !” (Origa) Getting up as if she were a spring, Origa kept on talking while clinging to Hifumi. But Hifumi quickly tore her off causing her to fall on the floor. “Calm down, moron. I got rid of the entire attacking Knight Unit. Currently Doelgar’s group is cleaning up the mess.” (Hifumi) With a “That’s great” Origa was relieved spilling large drops of tears. As Origa was sobbing, Kasha, slipping into the abyss of death, murmured with her consciousness being vacant, “Hifumi-san ... Ah, Pajou-san has ...” (Kasha) That knight had given her and Origa a chance to reconcile. Realising that she had failed and died, Kasha didn’t give a damn about everything and anything anymore. “Kasha, apologise to Hifumi now. It isn’t too late yet ...” (Origa) Looking at Hifumi and Kasha alternately, Origa said so in her former gentle voice. “Origa, sorry ... Hifumi-san too, I am sorry ... I have been a fool ...” (Kasha) “Hifumi-sama, since she is also repenting ...” (Origa) Watching Kasha heading towards her death now, Origa couldn’t even hide her trembling. But Hifumi watched Kasha without saying a single word. “By now ... everything and anything has changed, hey ... not only I didn’t notice that, I wasn’t even approved by Pajou-san either ...” (Kasha) Looking at Hifumi, Kasha laughed bitterly. “Hifumi-san, thank you for saving us when we were slaves ... If you are fine with it, I want you to let me pass on as is ... I think this manner of death is a blessing, to the extent that it is more than a fool like me deserves ...” (Kasha) Hifumi nodded expressionlessly. “Thank you ...” (Kasha) “Kasha!” (Origa) Kasha slowly closed her eyelids to never open them again. Painfully raising her breast up and down only once, her breathing ceased. “Really, you have been such a fool ...” (Origa) Sitting down at the side of her close friend, she shed tears as she also stopped to pretend being tough. Hifumi took a breath and placed his hands on his waist.magic In his mind he hosted a little bit of compassion but no regret. Pushing his way through the crowd, Midas finally arrived at the mansion. He was greeted by an unhurt Hifumi, donning an expression of anger and Origa, being even more angry burning with fury. Being guided to the office by himself, Midas discerned that the situation had turned out in the worst possible way. “... So?” (Hifumi) As Midas stood stock still without being able to look at Hifumi in front of his eyes, a short inquiry was thrown at him. “T-The reinforcements weren’t in time. It’s inexcusable that we weren’t able to fulfill the role given to us ...” (Midas) “To the very end you insist that you came up until here to assist us? Is that what you are saying?” (Origa) “O-Of course” (Midas) He couldn’t even shift his gaze towards Origa. “Is it common for the reinforcements to storm the Lord’s office with drawn swords in this country?” (Hifumi) “Is it common for a Knight Unit, no, the royal castle to even use a friend to spy on the internal affairs?” (Hifumi) “Besides, it’s strange, isn’t it? Imeraria should have known that Vichy would attack the national border having prepared a sufficient war potential. Or rather, since she has induced this, shouldn’t she have sent reinforcements a lot earlier?” (Hifumi) “No, such expectations ... In reality the second son of a Marquis household, Debold-sama, had been dispatched as envoy of peace to Vichy.” (Midas) “Is that so? That means an envoy of peace delivers such a provocative letter in this world?” (Hifumi) The letter that was thrown at Midas was the on Hifumi had taken out from Debold’s breast pocket. “This is ... !” (Midas) It had Imeraria’s signature. Thrusting unreasonable demands at Vichy, no matter how you looked at it, the contents couldn’t be called anything but hostile. “Well then, I want you to properly convey to Imeraria that she has overstepped her bounds this time. Now matter how kind I may be, even I have my limits.” (Hifumi) Were his thought reflected on his face? Origa pointed an icy gaze at Midas to the degree of making him shiver. “It came to a point where it would be proper for me to receive yours and the princess’ heads. Shouldn’t you be grateful for the generous treatment of Hifumi-sama?” (Origa) “I-I am very sorry ...” (Midas) While bowing his head in apology, Midas raised an 「Oya?」 having a question towards Origa’s just spoken words. “There was far too little resistance, I guess ...” (Hifumi) “Ha?” (Midas) “The degree of the scheme was too little, even for Pajou. Also, the soldiers of Vichy attacking straight from the front like idiots, didn’t divert from our predictions in the least. Although Origa seems to be able handling it well, Kasha wasn’t able to implement what she had been taught at all.” (Hifumi) Midas suddenly couldn’t follow what Hifumi was talking about. “Due to the long, long history of wars in my country and world, there are many substantial studies repeatedly refining the art of efficiently killing your enemies, such as those heavily armored, those riding a horse, those being separated from their allies and those being swift, no matter the circumstances. As a result of that, many created military strategies and weapons vanished, making it literally a struggle to survive for those.” (Hifumi) Maa, though I ended up completely forgetting those things recently “However, after coming here, the opponents I faced were only luke-warm opponents at best. I first thought that it was only this country, but it seems the other countries aren’t any different in that regard either. As I worked as adventurer and statesman, I always pondered about it and at last I reached a conclusion.” (Hifumi) “Th-The conclusion is ...” (Midas) As Midas feared he would hear something absurd and his desire to escape from this place right away was almost stirred up, he resisted those up-welling feelings as he had to convey what Hifumi was going to say to the princess. “There isn’t enough fighting in this world. There isn’t enough desperation to stake their life on fighting between people. Therefore I decided to make my move.” (Hifumi) “What the hell are you planning to do ...?” (Midas) Although he didn’t want to hear it, he couldn’t help but listen to it. And just as he thought, Midas regretted hearing about it. “I will spread the methods of fighting in order for the human society to become self-aware and come to their senses all around the world. Oh well, if I drill thousands of people scattered throughout the world in the ways of war, my intent will naturally come true, don’t you think?” (Hifumi) “In other words, you will raise well-trained people to pit them against each other all around the world? Is that what you are saying?” “It’s a magnificent idea. Of course I will also do my very best to help you.” (Origa) Even though Origa said this as if it was natural, Hifumi gave up while thinking “Ah! I will use this territory as is. Once in a while I will return here. I want a place where I can run various experiments as well.” (Hifumi) As result the people brought up in this territory will become ‘people who might cause damage to Orsongrande in the future’. (However, there is no way to decline this ...) (Midas) Most likely even Imeraria won’t be able to refuse. As Hifumi laughed joyfully, Midas frantically endured strong stomach pains.

Hifumi did not like flashy movements and skills. Large movements are done if necessary, as a pretence of high-handedness, but ultimately, to kill a person aiming at the vital spots is just as important. Stimulating the sense of pain by using a kansetsu waza (joint locking technique in judo) and ‘destroying’ the opponent in a move, killing can be done efficiently. Though there were no opportunities to use them in the other world, those points on the body had been memorised. Though ‘Killing efficiently’ is very important, showing it to someone is unnecessary. However, polishing the technique like this had an entrancing allure about it, even though it gave off a dangerous feel. 「 Wow... 」 Origa, who saw Hifumi’s technique for the first time, even though an adventurer, had never seen such an admirable skill. 「 Certainly amazing, but this..... 」 Kasha, breaking down and digesting the battle, as expected of a swordswoman, noticed Hifumi’s techniques designed to kill efficiently. 「 Master, just what kind of person are you.... 」 There is a reason that Kasha feels a sense of incongruity in Hifumi’s skill. In this world, there are crime and war-related killings everywhere, but fighting with a demon is more familiar. There are various types of demons, their vital points similar to animals , blows and slashes do not have much effect. There are attacks assisted by magic, fighting with the weapons of this world places emphasis on the point of contact(of the weapon) to drive in a strong shock or slash. As a result, maces or longswords are all made heavy and sharp, and weapons like the short spears equipped by the Knights of the castle are fewer. Though bows exist as well, they are mainly used to hunt, and fire the first few volleys of arrows in an infantry battle, after which they are not used. To kill a living thing here, forge the body, acquire power and use heavy weapons, strengthen the basic foundations. ‘Killing efficiently’ techniques never evolved in this world. In such a world, Hifumi’s techniques are alien, unknown. We seem to have been bought by an unexpectedly dangerous man. To be frank, Hifumi had a height of about cm, small for a male to be employed in combat in this world. Because of his not being muscular, Kasha was half in doubt about her master’s fighting power. Events in the castle were thought to be considerably exaggerated. However, seeing the slaughter carried out in front of their eyes, it seemed that the story of the man who bought them was not an exaggeration at all. Sitting with slaves, and having meals at the same level, this relaxed man seemed to be truly terrifying inside. Though Kasha had fought many men in her adventurer years, this scary Hifumi was something else entirely. Though scary, she had to keep an eye on him. This, dangerous and focused feeling from the sword... While thinking such, fear was reflected in Kasha’s pupils. Though there was a feeling of respect for a strong person as well. Two people of the four remaining enemies throw small knives. Matching their timing, the other two thrust forward. 「 Hoh... 」 Exhaling, Hifumi thrust his left hand forward, hitting one man’s torso and bringing him down, while doing so, the two knives struck his back. Convulsing once, the fellow collapsed powerlessly. Slipping under the other approaching attacker, Hifumi savagely threw knives at the remaining two attackers. Towards the abruptly approaching Hifumi, the men blocked with their own knives, but they were just too unlucky. As though gliding, the katana cut lopped off the first person’s head, continuing on, sliced through the second person’s carotid artery. Moving the katana back, approaching the previously disregarded opponent, the katana point soundlessly pierced through the centre of the torso. Snatching the knife from the dead opponent’s hand, Hifumi threw it with a quick snap of his elbow. The knife flew a frightening speed striking the hiding and watching th man, entering his eye and exiting from the back of his head. 「 I knew there were people. 」 Mere seconds after encountering Hifumi, they were all dead. 「 Fuu... That was truly enjoyable. My thanks. 」 「 Ah, dammit 」 Looking at the state of his uniform stained with blood, Hifumi cursed while sheathing his katana. 「 All members are dead. Well, lets see who instigated them. 」 「 May I investigate as a member of the Knights? To be honest, we Knights are somewhat uneasy about the real nature of these people. 」 (Midas) To Midas’ proposal, Hifumi had a cold expression. 「 Like that, carefully erasing evidence of any links to your Knight Corps..... is that it? 」 「 W-Wait please! Really people like these do not exist in our Knight Corps, we know the dangers of starting a fight with Hero-sama! 」 Abruptly coerced, Midas instinctively panicked. 「 Fuu.... All right. In any case, I don’t really want to spend time investigating. Do as you like. 」 「 Th-Thank you. 」 Leaving Midas waiting for assistance, Hifumi and company returned to the shop area. Is my observation okay? Well, no worries. 「 Well, now that the enjoyable event is over, we should schedule shopping as next on the list. 」 「 Ne, ne 」 While walking, Kasha called out. 「 What? 」 「 Some time ago, master’s fighting methods, I saw something like that for the first time. Where in the world did master learn that? 」 「 Ah.... That, huh. In my hometown, such a way of fighting is not unusual. Like me, in the country where I was born and grew up, there were not a lot of people with heavily built physiques. Nevertheless, a certain period of fighting divided the country into pieces, and it was from such an environment that the gaps in power can be overcome by technique. Even if a person wears armour, they can be efficiently killed. 」 「 Power gap by technique.... 」 Thinking about something, Origa ponders. 「 On the battlefield, on killing an enemy it was a custom to harvest the heads. Also there were various other techniques used to destroy an opponent’s mental balance. 」 (Hifumi) 「 H-Heads? 」 A frightening image seemed to float in front of Origa and Kasha, Hifumi didn’t particularly feel like correcting them. 「 Indeed. The heads of the enemies were tied around the waist of the general, to show off their military exploits. 」 While discussing the finer points of old battles, Hifumi walked onwards, accompanied by two slaves who seemed slightly green-faced. They reached the armourer’s shop at last, near the shop they had eaten in. Like a convenience store, it was completely crammed with various equipment. Further in, there seems to be a workshop attached, it’s entrance covered by a screen of sorts. This too seems to be a shop that Kasha is acquainted with. 「 If it’s here, weapons can be made, armour too. Though not their area of expertise, there is equipment for magicians as well. 」 The elation from shopping aside, Kasha was quite tense. Inside the shop,a short elderly man was sitting next to the screen wearing an unpleasant expression. 「 You two huh. 」 The old man looked at Kasha and Origa with a sullen expression. 「 I look away from you, and you’re slaves. 」 Looking at the tattoos on their shoulders, the old man says with a sigh. 「 Aa, there were a number of reasons. Right now, this man is the master. Master, this is the owner of the shop, Thorn of the Dwarf race. 」 Introduced by Kasha, the old man turned his scowl to Hifumi. Ooh, this fellow is a dwarf? It’s my first time seeing the real thing! Meeting a fantasy race for the first time, Hifumi was excited. Then, a question arose in his mind. 「 Huh? Weren’t humans and demi-humans hostile to each other? 」 「 Fuun, a brat that knows nothing. The humans are quarrelling with the beast race. Us dwarves are scattered throughout the world, polishing our skills, and elves don’t come out of their territories in the first place. 」 「 Is that so. Not complex at all. 」 Though Thorn was scowling throughout the explanation, his face might originally be like that. 「 Well, aside from the Demon race, the beast people and humans are the only sources of revenue for weapons. 」 They seem to be a business-minded race. 「 You know the weapons suited for yourselves. Do not mind the amount of money, you like it, buy it. 」 Telling them to promptly choose their weapons, Hifumi says magnanimously. Actually, a lot of money remains. 「 Is that fine? Slaves are usually not allowed to carry weapons, and if they are, usually cheap ones. 」 After having joy fill her face for an instant, Origa asked uneasily. 「 Will you be able to fight if not wielding weapons? Though the cost is trivial, you should choose an easy to use and durable weapon. It is necessary to avoid the possibility of the weapons breaking in combat. 」 Next to Hifumi, Kasha nodded with an ‘un un’. (TL: I dunno how else to phrase this.) 「 It is as master says. As expected, master understands. So, I can choose without reservation. Now Origa, you need to chose a staff. Using magic without it is not possible, how will you fight? 」 Hifumi heard Kasha’s words. Magic cannot be used without a staff? Is this the general practice of this world? Though I can use my Dark Magic normally without one.... However, neither the slave-shop owner nor the doorkeeper had any different reaction when I used it to bring out the money. Though it may be a peculiarity of Origa, various staffs on display are embedded with crystals and jewels, why they are used is unknown. Still, I need to know more about this world. Looking at the various products, Hifumi reaffirmed once again that he was really in a different world. 「 Origa does not look good in this. 」 「 Kasha’s arms and legs are long, many dresses suit you very well. 」 Though the conversation started resembling one that would not be out of place in a clothing store, Hifumi decided to ignore it. It would be troublesome for Hifumi if he got entangled in women’s shopping. 「 Nevertheless, Knife, one-handed sword, two-handed sword, axe, mace, there are only kinds. Full body leather armour differs from it’s metal counterpart only in hardness. 」 To Hifumi’s grumbling, Thorn retorts, 「 What are you saying. It is dangerous if defence is not tightened, yes? Besides, the only weapons not here are the spears used by the Knights. 」 It seems that leather armour is the norm here, metal armour is primarily used by officials and other ranking people, and there are truly very few varieties of weapons. 「 For instance, can I order some custom work? There is something I want you to make. 」 At first trying to explain with words and failing, because it is not possible to understand it that easily, finally parchment and ink was prepared and some drawings were made. 「 Because this and this are weapons, forge this properly. Also, this moves like this, do not make it fixed.... 」 「 What kind of weapon is this? I’m seeing such a thing for the first time, how to use it? 」 「 Aa..... Words won’t suffice to explain, it’s better if I show you. 」 Hifumi handed over about 20 gold coins to Thorn who was constantly tilting his head. 「 The advance. The rest will be paid upon completion. 」 「 Well, if I can earn money, I’ll make it. Lets see...... 3 days, it will be done. 」 As expected of a dwarf, the work speed was upto Hifumi’s satisfaction. During their discussion, it seems that Origa and Kasha were finished with their selections. 「 Have you decided? 」 「 Yes, though it seems to cost a lot of money, is it fine? 」 Hifumi laughed cheerfully at the two who had an apologetic air. 「 It’s allright, there is still plenty more money I took from the castle. 」 「 ....Is that really allright? 」 Though Kasha twisted uneasily for a different reason, she asked Hifumi directly for two one-handed swords and metallic armour. Beneath the armour were simple clothes. Origa chose a robe that snugly wrapped around her small body, and a staff with a tip embedded with a stone of the same emerald green colour as her eyes. In all 22 gold coins. Half of it was the cost of the magic staff. 「 I’m sorry... 」 To Origa who was feeling like a burden, Hifumi paid while telling her it was fine. 「 Master is not buying anything? Even though master’s clothes are uncommon, it is dangerous without a leather armour at least... 」 (Kasha) 「 Oh? Worried about me? 」 「 Wh-What is master saying... 」 (Kasha) On Hifumi teasing her, Kasha blushed and looked down. It seems like she has no experience in banter like this. Since her face and figure are easy on the eye, seeing as the Adventurer profession is mainly a man’s, her pure reactions are quite strange. 「 Armour is unnecessary because it is heavy. As for a weapon, there’s this. 」 Hifumi said as he touched the katana at his waist. 「 However, I just placed an order for a weapon. 」 「 ! Is it a weapon from master’s world? 」magic Origa jumped into the conversation. 「 Are you interested? 」 「 Yes. Just some time ago, master fought using an unknown technique. If possible, I would like to learn that technique. 」 Origa looked at Hifumi frankly and asked. 「 Is that so. 」 Hifumi had practised in not just Japanese martial arts, but also overseas martial arts for many years, he was glad to be asked to teach it. 「 I, I want to learn as well! 」 On Kasha declaring her participation in a hurry, Hifumi was in a good mood. 「 Yosh, if that is the case, then display your abilities once. After seeing that, I will guide you. Origa is a magician, yes? Do you do close combat? 」 「 I could only fight with magic till now. But, I got into this situation, and I regret not learning it.... 」 「 Origa.... 」(Kasha) Though Hifumi noticed that it was related to how she became a slave, he decided not to broach the topic. 「 There is a rule. My guidance is severe, resolve yourself. 」 「 Yes, thank you very much. 」(Origa) 「 Master, a little..... No, please go easy on us. 」(Kasha) Following Hifumi who was feeling quite good, Origa and Kasha followed wearing their newly-purchased equipment. Leaving the store in high spirits, the daylight had started fading. A lot of time seems to have passed while Hifumi and the other two were on a shopping spree. Absorbed in the selection and discussion of equipment, all tension had fallen from them. 「 ..... For now, a hotel. 」 「 ..... Yes. 」 Hifumi’s guidance would start the next day.

Because of Alyssa’s pursuit the numbers of the Vichy army dwindled even more though they took flight escaping Rhone. The offensive lasted for a few days and the activity of the border security in Rhone was arranged to resume. All was explained to the citizens of Arosel and the tidying up began. Alyssa returned to Arosel wearing a tired facial expression. “... Sleepy” (Alyssa) “Yes, thanks for your hard work. Sleep well.” (Origa) Having received the report from Alyssa, Origa saw her off unsteadily returning to her own room within the building of the Lord. Origa herself had to commit herself to such things as returning the temporarily refuging citizens back to their own homes and giving orders to the soldiers left behind to clean up the city. Having her injury completely healed by the magic potion, she acted more vigorously than before. And now she is handling her own and Hifumi’s share of travel preparations. In the briefing session with Midas, Midas had no other choice but to accept the one-sided instructions in regards to the report contents from Hifumi. The result was a report stating Pajou and the other knights of the Third Knight Unit, which Hifumi had killed, had been killed in action in the battle with Vichy. Because it would cause a huge loss of face for the royalty, if the truth of Imeraria giving the order to assassinate another noble were to be spread, Midas gladly accepted that kind of conclusion as it was far more amicable than he had imagined it to be. Although it was wrong towards Pajou, there was no better solution without this whole situation having a dramatic impact on the princess. But Midas’ tension recurred once he heard Hifumi’s words after this topic was settled. “I will go to the royal castle soon as I have to talk with Imeraria.” (Hifumi) “Yo-You have to talk... ?” (Midas) “No matter how you look at it, I am a noble of Orsongrande, so it is necessary to return triumphantly and give a report of the victory, I think.” (Hifumi) Like this it became a matter of Hifumi heading towards the royal capital, alongside the surviving members of the Third Knight Unit, by himself without taking any soldiers along. In order to protect the territory, all of the territorial soldiers will be left behind. “It will be only us, so I won’t particularly mind if you attack me during the trip, okay?” (Hifumi) “You must be joking...” (Midas) As Hifumi laughed impishly, Midas barely managed to squeeze out an answer. The political centre of Horant is the capital city, Ludan. The Ludan castle, where the aged king Suprangel Geng Horant However, the one having substantial ability in the ways of politics, being his directly descending grandchild, was Belldore. The elder king had declared to pass the crown to Belldore, who had no children of his own. Even the experiment with the magic tool, orchestrated by Vichy, was something pushed forward by Belldore for the sake of gaining moderate accomplishments. With the authority of the king being very powerful, the order of royalty is an absolute for the few nobles of Horant as well. The standing of regular soldiers drafted from the common folk is quite low. But the gathering of funds upon the king’s order for the sake of developing the magic tool had been remarkable. With the wealth that was brought about due to the magic tools, criticism from the masses was suppressed. “How is the situation developing?” (Suprangel) “It’s going well.” (Belldore) When the king inquired with a hoarse voice, Belldore answered standing upright. “The aggression-rising magic tool “However, there are flaws as well...” (Suprangel) causes the actions of the target to become sluggish. Also, the target’s judgement declines sharply. Still, there are ways for practical use either way. There won’t be any problems if we use it only on soldiers and make sure to have the commander make the judgments and give out directions to the soldiers.” (Belldore) As Belldore answered confidently puffing up with pride, King Suprangel nodded his head. “Very well. It is fine to go with your results as they are. You will also give the researchers a reward to show them your generosity.” (Suprangel) Furthermore the king decided to listen to the opinion of Belldore concerning the situation in the other countries. “... For some reason Vichy and Orsongrande seem to be noisy...” (Suprangel) “It appears that there is a young noble of Orsongrande, having obtained the trust of the princess, acting violently and rudely. He has been bestowed the territory including the national border to Vichy. I hear he shaved off an unknown size of territory of Vichy. Isn’t the battle continuing even now?” (Belldore) “Even at the border of our country to Orsongrande there seems to be movement.” (Suprangel) “Since we have officially sided with Vichy and because even our country’s soldiers are heading towards the border, they have apparently deployed their soldiers in response. They won’t attempt to make contact though.” (Belldore) If they start an all-out war on this side, it will become a war at two fronts for Orsongrande. It means that while continuing the war with Vichy, Orsongrande won’t start something right way. That was the common opinion shared by King and grandchild. Once the war with with Vichy ends, the reason for Horant to deploy its soldiers will vanish as well. “Orsongrande’s side has raised a set amount of military gains. Although the general outline is that it will end with Vichy’s side compromising, they are more or less resisting the outcome. Putting aside their quality, Vichy has prepared a great number of soldiers.” (Belldore) After contemplating for a while about this information, the king said slowly as if chewing it thoroughly, “Well then ... Once the state of affairs has calmed down and the soldiers deployed at the border to Orsongrande can be withdrawn, I will use the opportunity to retire from this position.” (Suprangel) “That is...” (Belldore) “You will become the next king. It will be good for governing this country. But, show me the proof of the magic tools, “Ha, I will make my move at once.” (Belldore) “Umu, I am waiting for the good news.” (Suprangel) For the news, of Hifumi leading the small force of Fokalore’s territorial troops against the military forces of Vichy and repelling them, to circulate in Horant, a few more days were still necessary. extremely close to the national border to Horant on Orsongrande’s side. This town has the same scale as Fokalore and, including several farm villages in its circumference, an earl called Biron is governing it. Biron isn’t particularly close to either the prince or the princess. He wasn’t very well-informed about the situation taking place close to Vichy where Fokalore played a central role as his territory could also be said to be on the opposite side. Even the the request for stationing the troops of the Second Knight Unit this time was something he only reluctantly accepted due to the documents having the signature of the prince. The communication with the knight unit also only started at the time the Second Knight Unit’s captain, Stifels, came to visit in order to exchange greetings. Biron’s stance was “Just do whatever you want.” “Why has a knight unit come all the way to this place?” (Biron) Without trying to conceal his dissatisfaction, Biron complained to his butler, standing close-by, as he was sitting dead tired on a sofa. He was a still young head of a household at the age of years. With the death due to illness of his father years ago, he was called back home to succeed the Earlship although he had been working as bureaucrat in the capital. Even the current circumstances, he understands that Vichy and Horant have a connection notwithstanding the lack of information. He also knew that there wasn’t even any point in provoking Horant. Of course, anticipating an emergency situation, a lot more soldiers are patrolling the area close to the border than usual. He also knew well that he might have to to dispatch troops on short call. At any rate, since quite many soldiers were deployed to another place, the maintanence of public order in the whole town started to show holes. His only wish was for the whole situation to quickly finish not caring whether the rising noble Hifumi, whose face he doesn’t even know, wins or loses. Not only that, in regards to the Second Knight Unit, turning up here recklessly and in a fighting mood, Biron was highly vigilant. If something strange happens and hostilities with Horant unfold, he doesn’t have the intention to lose, but he will feel unease about the safety of the town of Münster. His own territorial soldiers will be depleted as well. Moreover, the Second Knight Unit is building a simple fortress in the middle between Münster and the national border. It goes even as far that they are talking about inviting Prince Ayperos there for encouragement. To begin with, due to the influence of the princess’ popularity, Prince Ayperos has a thin presence with the plain achievements he has earned. Biron can do nothing but sigh. “I guess it is a suggestion by the queen, but doesn’t she understand that starting a war here will cause his evaluation to pummel even more?” (Biron) Or, do they have some certain plan for victory or tools able to make it happen, I wonder? Biron pondered about that. But if there were such things, it would be impossible for that haughty, over-confident Stifels to stay silent about it. “If that new viscount called Hifumi or something like that is able to defeat Vichy at an early stage, then...” (Biron) It reached the point that Biron thought to join Princess Imeraria’s faction, if he gets involved in the movements of the prince and the Second Knight Unit, although he kept a neutral stance before. Hifumi, entering the royal castle together with Midas’s group of the Third Knight Unit, was immediately allowed to have an audience in the audience room. It seems to be about the matter of being conferred some kind of reward. Because of Midas using a fast to report the state of affairs, the room was dominated by an air of restlessness as if something had to be frantically smoothed over. I guess they plan to pay reparations. I think that’s an idea the prime minister came up with. While thinking Suppressing the quivering of her legs seeing that figure, Imeraria talked about the recognition of his services while standing in the audience room. Her voice seemed to shake, but since the eyes of the other nobles rested on her, she desperately put strength into her stomach. “Your military gains on this occasion were very splendid. Crushing a large army with such a small force is something that will be handed down to future generation in this country. It is extremely regrettable that the Third Knight Unit suffered such victims, but...” (Imeraria) Although she senses how the inner part of her eyes is heating up due to bitterness, she keeps pasting a smile on her face. “... As reward for his achievements this time, Hifumi Touno shall become an earl and be given new territory in addition to the territory gained as result of the war. Does anyone have an objection to this decree?” (Imeraria) The nobles, lined up on both sides of the audience hall, remained silent. It doesn’t look like they are giving their active support to this decree, but there is no way to not confer any reward in light of this much distinguished war service. Besides they didn’t think anyone would want something like a region placed in-between Hifumi’s territory and a foreign country. “It doesn’t seem that there is an objection. So be it. As replacement for my deceased father, the king, I, in my name as Imeraria Torie Orsongrande, grant Hifumi Touno the title of earl of the Orsongrande kingdom.” (Imeraria) Sporadic applause could be heard. Hifumi got up remaining silent and left the audience hall after turning a fleeting glance at Imeraria. While seeing him off and whispering in low voices about this impoliteness, the nobles left the hall before being prompted to do so by Imeraria. “Imeraria-sama.” (Prime Minister) Choosing the time when the other nobles had departed the hall, the prime minister stepped forward. “What is it?” (Imeraria) “That is... was it alright to do that?” (Prime Minister)magic “What else did you expect me to do? There is no way that this country’s defense war potential can deal with him anymore. I have also heard about Hifumi’s turbulent kind of plan from Midas, but nevertheless there is no other choice but to use the fact that Hifumi-sama is affiliated to this country. Currently it is impossible to eliminate him.” (Imeraria) After looking fleetingly at the king’s throne Imeraria tugged her pursed lips. “Confirm the reason why he isn’t killing me. And then don’t fail to ask him directly what he is planning to do from now on. Please come to my office later on and give me a report.” (Imeraria) “That is, because it is dangerous...” (Prime Minister) “It will be futile to worry about plans or guards if it is meaningless.” (Imeraria) Hearing about the news of having lost a trusted subordinate, Imeraria felt shaken for a short while, calming down only slightly. It would be intolerable for her to stop her own assigned duty for something like weeping. “What is Ayperos doing?” (Imeraria) “I was told he departed this morning to observe the battlefield at Horant.” (Prime Minister) “Such a selfish thing...” (Imeraria) , Imeraria thought. Prince Ayperos, having no accomplishments of his own, had consulted with his mother, the queen, without Imeraria knowing about it. She didn’t consider it to be necessary for the next king to be accomplished either. Anyways, as the situation had to only settle down for the sake of crowning Ayperos, this was Imeraria’s current goal. With Hifumi returning to the antechamber of the room prepared for him, Origa, waiting as chamberlain, stood up and greeted him. Sabnak of the Third Knight Unit is present there as well. Having been summoned by Hifumi, he wore a bewildered facial expression. “You are early, Sabnak. Take a seat for the time being.” (Hifumi) “What business do you have with me... ?” (Sabnak) Sabnak had been informed by Midas about Pajou’s final moments. On that occasion he was told that there is no malice regarding his survival, but as he still has betrayed his colleagues, he can’t sweep away his dread of possibly being killed. “It’s fine to not have such formal posture. Just now I have also taken hold of the old Vichy territory ranging from Rhone to Arosel. I have also obtained the rank of earl.” (Hifumi) He drank the tea Origa had prepared. “Congratulations. Though it feels lacking as compensation for trying to harm Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) Towards Origa’s words of praise, Hifumi gives an appropriate answer with “Ah, yes.” He has stopped listening to her seriously. “From me likewise, congratulations. With this you are in name and reality a member of the greater nobles of Orsongrande.” (Sabnak) “I don’t give a damn about the title, but there is hope that we can earn the necessary funds for our activities with this. But there aren’t enough helping hands.” (Hifumi) “Helping hands?” (Sabnak) Sabnak, not wanting to recall the only vague memories of an already remote past, remembers the hell of paperwork called temporary feudal lord of Fokalore and cold sweat runs down his spine. “It is necessary to entrust the acting of a proxy for me to someone since I will be absent from the territory for a while.” (Hifumi) In his eardrums Sabnak can hear the *doki doki* of his heart from within his body. “Since the civil official slaves can handle it to a certain degree, it will be settled by acting as boss. Everything has been prepared as well, so it will be good if you come to Fokalore for around days.” (Hifumi) It has already been decided to designate Sabnak. Including the case with Pajou, Midas, and himself, and considering the matter of turning a blind eye towards the Knight Unit, Sabnak simply wasn’t able to refuse. “... Understood...” (Sabnak) Convincing himself that it won’t turn into such a hell like previously this time around as there are even staff members, Sabnak told them that he had to prepare and left. “Well then, all that is left now is Imeraria.” (Hifumi) Just as Hifumi muttered this, a white maid enters and tells him that he has been called by Imeraria. “Origa, gather the populace in front of the castle by having the Third Knight Unit assist you. It has to be a place where they can see the balcony we talked about before. Ah, yea, also tell them “There is an important announcement for the people from the princess.”” (Hifumi) “Important announcement is it...” (Origa) “While we are at it, I think it will be refreshing for those in the castle as well.” (Hifumi) Origa responded to Hifumi’s words with a smile and laughter.

The messenger, who departed Pursang, which got independent from Vichy, arrived at Fokalore while actually hiding the order At that point in time not only Hifumi but also soldiers from the feudal army departed in the direction of Horant in order to rescue their friendly troops. However, this was convenient for the messenger from Pursang. His order is to talk with Hifumi, who’s the feudal lord, or Alyssa, who’s the military’s top. If those two headed to the capital of Orsongrande, it would be easier to explain to the king of Pursang, Minoson, if he directly requested help from the queen as well. Even the news that quite the number of soldiers from Fokalore’s feudal army had departed towards Horant, will be advantageous to Pursang. For Minoson, who doesn’t want a riot currently occurring and is frantic in stabilizing the country, it’s at least good information that the war potential of Fokalore has decreased. Even so, after overtaking Fokalore’s feudal army, which was advancing in a group, what he heard when he arrived at the capital, where he headed in a hurry, was the news of a new enemy called “... What the hell does that...” The messenger, who got to know about the queen’s absence at the royal castle, was unable to exchange brief words with anyone as the person in charge was away and thus decided to gather information in the capital as last resort. Hearing the most recent news from a bar’s guest as part of that, the messenger heard the unfamiliar term demons. “They say that demons are apparently demi-humans living in the wastelands. I ain’t getting it quite well either, but having a new demon king, they gathered up because they gonna attack human cities, aren’t they?” “After that has become known, the knights and soldiers are training with a tense atmosphere”, says the drunkard, who calls himself a carpenter, and laughs with a “Hehe.” “Considering all that, you seem to be quite carefree.” The drunkard’s mouth, which became plenty talkative after being treated to booze, gushed forth one word after the other once asked briefly by the messenger. “No matter what kind of opponent it is, that Knight of the Slender Sword-sama will handle it in one way or the other. Anyway, he is an outrageous man who covered the whole wastelands by himself. Moreover, as he brought down one of those demons, it won’t be a great problem.” “Brought down?” “Yea, it’s decorating the plaza close to the royal castle. It has a face resembling humans, but since it’s alive even though it’s just a head, it’s really different from a human.” “Just as head...” On the next day he tries to find the place he heard about from the drunkard and it’s certainly decorated with a demon’s head. Having been installed on a high stand so that it doesn’t get touched, the head, which was affixed by a rope on top of it, looks down on the people in a provoking manner and opens its mouth to raise a mute voice. “This is, amazing... Orsongrande intends to fight such things as well?” After he mutters to himself, he rethinks with a If they come out from the wastelands, Vichy will be dragged into it. Although we are apart from the wastelands, it won’t be limited to them, even if Pursang won’t get involved. “We don’t have the combat potential and technology to fight such monsters though.” “The reasons to ask Orsongrande for its cooperation increased”, the messenger clicked his tongue quietly. “Is it fine to take a little moment of your time?” When he looked up at the freshly severed head, which can be even called ominous, there was a man who addressed the messenger. The young man, who wore an extremely typical linen clothes while looking like a lean person, smiles friendly with his whole face as if it was completely drawn onto his face like that. “Haa, what is it?” “Did you come from Vichy’s direction by any chance?” “... What’s wrong with that?” The man waves his hands while saying “Nothing, nothing” to the messenger who is suspicious of him. “Please don’t be on such alertness towards me.” The man, who brought his face close quietly, says in a voice that can’t be heard by the surroundings, “You and me have come from the same place.” “Huh?” “Or rather, I’m living in this place for a long time already in my role as liaison. If you like, won’t you chat with me for a little while? I want to hear news about my home country.” “I see. Given that I want to know about Orsongrande’s circumstances as well, if possible, it will be helpful to me instead.” Entering a restaurant which is his favourite one according to the man’s words, they take a private room. “If it’s this place, we will be able to talk at ease. As the employees are tight-lipped as well, we can talk without worry.” “So, how’s the country’s situation?” Once he ordered simple meals and drinks, he breeched the topic at once. The messenger, who drank a mouthful of diluted wine, talks to explain the circumstances at the time he left Pursang. “Pursang itself is heading towards stability. Representative.... King Minoson has said that it’s still not a situation where one can feel relieved. If we can tie friendly relationships with not only Orsongrande but Fokalore as well for the present, that will turn into a restraint for Vichy, he said.” “I see. That means you came to this city as his envoy.” “Well, that’s how it is.” By no means can he say that he came to this place after ignoring his orders. “Well then, it’s about Orsongrande’s situation, but that side seems to be heading towards a war with Horant. A part of the nobles plotted to invade Horant and it looks like the queen headed out to suppress them while leading the troops herself.” “Furthermore”, while swinging the steamed potato, which he stabbed with his two-forked fork, in front of his face, the man says, “It seems that Earl Tohno is preceding towards Horant with his close aides while the army’s main unit is trailing after him.” “Yea, if it’s about that, I know that. On the way of getting here I passed Fokalore’s troops as well.”magic “I see, then...” The messenger frowned due to the man casting a shadow on his face all of a sudden. “Is there something bothering you?” “It’s about the demon we have seen not long ago.” Downing the cup of wine in one go, he place it on the table with a *clonk*. “If those ((demon)) troops came invading towards the direction of Fokalore or Vichy, it might be possible to oppose them to some degree with Earl Tohno absent. Even without that, I wonder whether Fokalore or Orsongrande would make a move with their leaders absent, if Vichy started an offensive against our Pursang?” “Uuh... however, Vichy has no intention to take an aggressive stance against Fokalore.” “Wasn’t it inconceivable that Horant would make such a move either?” “If someone thought that they might have the prospects for victory, that assumption would likely crumble easily”, the man shakes his head. “As a matter of fact I called out to you because I want you to deliver certain objects to our home country. Originally, someone like me, who is expected to stay hidden, won’t get in touch with others willingly.” “Certain objects?” The man gently smiles at the messenger who asked with a feeling like grasping at straws. “It’s magic tools that strengthen soldiers which I obtained from Horant. If it’s this, it might at least be possible to not get easily crushed by Vichy.” “There’s such a thing?” “Although it’s something I got my hands on by chance, I was at a loss without a partner whom I can trust to transport it as the objects are what they are. It’s disappointing that you couldn’t get in touch with the queen, but won’t it be a sufficient accomplishment with this? Since I have it at hand right here, I’d like to request it from you by all means, if possible.” The smile of the man at that time was slight different from some time ago, but the messenger was unable to notice that. Once he saw off the messenger who vanished into the city while thanking him many times over and pulling a cart with all the magic tools and potions placed on it, the man erased the smile from his face. “... It seems to have gone smoothly.” A middle-aged man, who carried the dishes and called himself clerk, called out to him. “Humph. It would have been even better if he was related to the central committee of Vichy, but well, I guess it turned out well. Even though you didn’t mention the city’s name with a single word from your side, it saved us trouble that he flapped his mouth on his own accord. It was an easy job.” The men, who returned to the store’s interior, enter an empty resting room for employees inside, pull the chairs to themselves with familiar motions and sit down on them with a *flump*. “The seed has been sown. Tell that to Prime Minister Kuzemu. With this we can put out undivided attention on the fight with Orsongrande without having to worry about Vichy meddling. His Excellency, the Prime Minister, is a person quite attentive of the small details, too.” Pouring wine into a cup by himself, he gulps down around half in one go. “Let’s see, if it’s later possible to kill the Knight of the Slender Sword-sama according to the predictions of His Excellency, even I will get promoted once I return to the country. What do you think?” “If it goes smoothly, certainly.” “That would be nice.” ☺☻☺ Hifumi stays composed even if it’s about telling a suitable lie, but since he basically doesn’t do it with the reason that it’s troublesome to falsify one’s social status if one doesn’t hide their face as well, the messenger had no difficulty to recognise the black-haired person, who turns up while mounted on horse from the front close to the capital, as being Earl Tohno. The messenger, who intended to go as far as Fokalore, ends up flustered due to seeing an important person in an unexpected place. As Hifumi ended up making no progress due to failing in handling his horse, the messenger was somehow successful at calling out to him. “A-Are you Earl Tohno-sama?” “Who are you?” (Hifumi) Hifumi returned with an amazed expression to the young messenger, who came talking to him, while frantically soothing the horse which shook its head. After hearing the giggling voice of Origa, who was behind Hifumi, the messenger becomes red up to his ears out of embarrassment. “I-It’s sudden, but excuse me!” Jumping off the horse, the messenger kneeled down on one knee while holding the reins. “I was dispatched as messenger from Biron Earldom. I’m called Ose. I came to tell you the war progress in Horant’s direction... and about the final moments of Ma Carme-sama.” (Ose) “I see. Thanks for your troubles. Alyssa, listen to it as well.” (Hifumi) “Y-Yea. Ma Carme’s final moment, you say, you don’t mean...” (Alyssa) Looking at Alyssa, who stepped forward while mounted on horse, the messenger stiffens. “N-Nothing. That is... because Military Director Alyssa-sama...” (Ose) “Me?” (Alyssa) Due to Ose being lost for words, Alyssa tilted her head to the side, but Origa turned a sharp gaze at him. “You are Ose-san, aren’t you?” (Origa) “Y-Yes!” (Ose) Ose, who held an impression of her being a peerlessly beautiful woman from Ma Carme’s stories, was confused seeing Alyssa’s appearance one might still call that of a little girl, although he thinks that she’s cute, but he came to his senses thanks to the voice of Origa who put pressure on him. “The position Alyssa currently has is naturally related to my husband as well, but she solely owes everything to her efforts and abilities. Acting like you are harbouring strange suspicions is...” (Origa) Alyssa said “I see” in understanding due to Ose bowing his head with a force as if he was prostrating himself on the ground. “Certainly, if compared to those at the same age, Alyssa is small.” (Hifumi) “How cruel of you, Hifumi-san!” (Alyssa) Looking at Origa, who released a charm appropriate for a woman who suddenly got married, Alyssa secretly sighed at her own appearance. “Leaving that aside, please hurry up and talk. Did Ma Carme die?” (Hifumi) “If that’s the case, let’s hear the circumstances”, Hifumi said. “I don’t know whether he really lost his life, but going by the situation, it was hopeless, I guess...?” (Ose) Hifumi listened with his arms folded on top of his horse about the gallant figure of Ma Carme told by Ose who was in tears. Alyssa is weeping while clinging to Origa. “... Ha?” (Ose) Hifumi’s smile was reflected in the eyes of Ose who raised his face. “Ma Carme performed quite well, too. Although I didn’t expect him to get done in by Horant, the developments so far aren’t bad. He was able to kill as many as possible with low numbers.” (Hifumi) Hifumi strokes the mane of his horse in a good mood. “The lot from Horant is great, too. It’s a reliable method to surround low numbers with many while using spear throwers and magic. Letting you get away was a mistake, but they are able to execute ((such strategy)) due to properly preparing for the sake of fighting.” (Hifumi) , Ose is confused and Origa says with an one-octave-higher voice, “This is also the result of Hifumi-sama’s esteemed guidance. How magnificent.” (Origa) “Eh...?” (Ose) Ose thought that the news, he brought back, were sad ones, however the hero in front of him is smiling. Unable to comprehend that, he turned his look towards Alyssa, who should be crying, to look for some assistance. What he found was a girl who sheds tears with an expression filled with rage. “Yea, what’s up?” (Hifumi) “I have a request.” (Alyssa) Once Alyssa dismounted and handed the horse’s reins over to Origa, she bowed very deeply in front of Hifumi. “The battle with Horant changed into... became a return match. This will also be my revenge.” (Alyssa) Hifumi, who looks down on her from atop his horse, doesn’t eradicate his thin smile. “That’s right. If you want to get revenge for Ma Carme and the others, this will be a return match. It’s no one else’s either. It your revenge.” (Hifumi) “That’s why I will do it. Please let me do so. As Origa accomplished her revenge, please give me a chance for that as well.” (Alyssa) If one considers Hifumi’s character, the possibility was high for him to go ahead by himself to fight. It wouldn’t be funny either if he plans to snatch away my enemies. However, Alyssa is still far from precisely understanding Hifumi’s character. In contrast to Alyssa, who is shrouded in anxiety, Origa was smiling. “How interesting!” (Hifumi) The sound of Hifumi clapping both his hands together reverberates on the highway. The armies of Horant and Fokalore have grown up properly. At this rate they will likely become quite the struggle for Imeraria’s forces as well. Alyssa.” (Hifumi) “What will successfully conclude your revenge?” (Hifumi) Hifumi’s and Alyssa’s gazes cross each other. “... Killing those, who ordered the death of Ma Carme and the others, and those, who actually killed them...” (Alyssa) “There, there. That’s fine. It’s good with that.” (Hifumi) Stretching out his arm, Hifumi, who gently caressed Alyssa’s hair, smiles in a good mood. “I will leave it to you. It’s fine to use the army to your heart’s content. It will be a contest with Imeraria. So, don’t lose, okay?” (Hifumi) “Yea!” (Alyssa) “I will watch from behind.” (Hifumi) “Yea! Thank you, Hifumi-san!” (Alyssa) Ose, who was completely treated as an outsider, unintentionally trembled with his shoulders when Hifumi’s gaze suddenly turned on him. “There’s something I want to request from you.” (Hifumi) “W-What is it!?” (Ose) “Please go in the direction of Fokalore and convey the conversation just now to the Fokalore feudal army.” (Hifumi) “That’s your reward”, retrieving one wakizashi from his darkness storage, Hifumi handed it over by tossing it to Ose. “T-This is?” (Ose) “It’s a wakizashi with the same ornament as Alyssa, the one Ma Carme wished for. If they see that, those guys from the army will likely realize that it’s a request from me.” (Hifumi) “Such precious item...” (Ose) “Take it. The fellow to get it died. If Ma Carme is still alive, it’s fine for you to palm it off by overcharging him plentifully. Because it’s this, he will probably fork over all of his money.” (Hifumi) Ose strained his voice and said 「I have gratefully received it」 to Hifumi, who is laughing loudly, while hoisting the wakizashi above his head. Although he didn’t see it properly as his sight was swaying, Alyssa and Origa appeared to be sobbing in Ose’s field of vision.

“Wow, it’s been a while, hasn’t it? It looks like you are busy, but is everything alright?” (Puuse) “You too, Puuse-san, are you holding up well? Ah, this is a present from Zanga-sama.” (Viine) Greeting Origa and Viine, who visited the royal castle, at the entrance, Puuse bowed towards Origa and then noisily chatted with Viine. The one welcoming Origa is Imeraria. “A report from the border and a letter from a person calling themselves the leader of the demons have been delivered.” (Origa) “A letter from the demons? The territory of your husband does not lack excitement, does it?” (Imeraria) “Yes. Fortunately it does not get boring.” (Origa) Seeing the two young beauties exchanging words while smiling sweetly, the guards patrolling the castle looked warmly at them as if seeing a pleasant scene. As long as one doesn’t know about their rivalry revolving around Hifumi, they simply look like close noble associates on the surface. “There is something Origa and I have to talk about. Puuse-san, I am sure you have plenty of things you want to tell Viine-san, so it is probably a good idea for you to slowly catch up with each other.” (Imeraria) “Thank you very much, Your Majesty.” (Puuse) Seeing off Puuse and Viine, who delightfully bowed their heads and then left, Imeraria orders a nearby knight to have sweets and tea brought to their room. She’s conducting herself very calmly and naturally. “Thank you very much for taking even my husband’s servant into consideration.” (Origa) “Do not mind it. That much is the duty of an employer.” (Imeraria) Puuse’s official position is 『Advisor』, but she has been treated as guest and not as retainer. As elves are long-lived, it might turn into a problem in later years if she’s given a high position as retainer. Having said that, the prime ministers and his subordinates pondered and racked their brains over the whole matter, as it would be weird for a person with the position to consult the ruler to be a low-ranking noble or a government official, and decided to handle her as “Advisor who had been temporarily invited from the elven village.” She was granted a living room and an office within the castle, and an exclusive maid was assigned to her. Recently Puuse, who had always lived providing for herself, was finally at the point of getting used to the suddenly changed lifestyle. Though she still hasn’t accustomed herself to giving orders to her maid. “There are several magicians in the castle, so I have the ambition of wanting to train fighting against magic users even if I can’t use magic myself. Recently I have been even helping out in the training of the knight order.” (Imeraria) “I see. That is nice.” (Origa) They changed location to Imeraria’s office. And then, once Imeraria had told the maids to leave the room, any smiles vanished from the two’s faces as they sat across each other. “So, can I have you show me that letter?” (Imeraria) “Here you go.” (Origa) Seeing the letter that had been handed to her curtly, Imeraria considered it unexpected for the sealing wax having been left untouched. “Hifumi-sama has not checked the contents?” (Origa) “In the eyes of my husband, he has already retired, so he does not have any interest in it. Those were his words.” (Origa) He probably confirmed the contents with some kind of method or used magic to do so Imeraria carefully undid the seal with a knife and thoroughly scanned through the content. It was signed by Queen Vepar and basically requested to hold armistice negotiations. It also mentioned that the queen herself is preparing to head towards Imeraria’s royal castle. “...Hmm.” (Imeraria) It’s dangerous to use only the contents of the letter to make a judgment, but just supporting the garrisoned forces, who were left in charge of the royal army’s soldiers at the border, costs money even if the whole battle finished with a skirmish with insignificant damage. Wanting to make something like that to end as soon as possible is the true wish of any statesman. Being told to come to area where the demons are would resulted in me suspecting a trap, but if she says that she will visit, I think I will be able to arrange a meeting. Imeraria was brooding over it, but suddenly feeling a gaze on her, she lifts her head. The one expressionlessly staring at her was Origa. “Anything the matter?” (Origa) “It is a proposal for a ceasefire from a person calling herself queen of the demons. If it is actually implemented, that will be great, but...” (Imeraria) “A ceasefire? Those are good news. If the battle drags on for too long, it will also become a burden for Alyssa. As the other side seems to also be at a loss how to continue, I guess it is just the right time.” (Origa) Origa’s words strongly contain implications that it’s only natural to accept the ceasefire. It’s unknown whether those are her own thoughts or something she was told by Hifumi, but Imeraria has no reason to not go along with this. “I guess you are right there. I probably should accept to hold those talks.” (Imeraria) Suddenly the idea whether she can’t make use of this situation crossed Imeraria’s mind. “...Origa-san, do you have any plans for tomorrow’s lunch?” (Imeraria) “I plan to spend time with my husband.” (Origa) Imeraria conceals her irritation at Origa saying it is as if it was just natural to do so with a smile. “If you like, Hifumi-sama can join us as well. How about a luncheon in the castle that at the same time serves as preparatory meeting? I want to wrap up the official details at that time, but I would like you to escort the queen of the demons from the border to this place.” (Imeraria) “...Is that not something which should be carried out by the royal army?” (Origa) “I would like it to take the shape of it serving as training for the knights who are currently being trained by Hifumi-sama. Besides, in worst case if the demon elites started to act up within Orsongrande, Hifumi-sama would definitely be capable of suppressing them.” (Imeraria) “I would like to discuss the request fee and the schedule when Hifumi-sama himself is with us,” Imeraria added. Because of that, Origa put the decision it on hold. “As I have to consult with my husband, I would like you to allow me to contact you at a later time today.” (Origa) “Understood. Please take care of passing on my request.” (Origa) After exchanging simple words of parting, Origa leaves the castle. Imeraria told the maid, who entered the office in exchange and started to clean up both women’s tea sets, “Please hurry.” “Also, please tell Sabnak and the prime minister to come here right away.” (Imeraria) “As you order, Your Majesty.” The maid swiftly placed the tea utensils on a tray, and left at a quick pace. “...Yesterday’s enemy is today’s friend...no, I can’t call them friends, now can I?” (Imeraria) While becoming fed up with her thoughts steadily becoming dark as she deals with politics, Imeraria gently caressed her belly. A definite medical diagnosis still hasn’t come up, but somehow she has a hunch that there’s a life dwelling in there. “...After all one wouldn’t consider to make use of one’s friend.” (Imeraria) ☺☻☺ “Yes. Thank you for your efforts.” (Vepar) Vepar gently thanked the man who visited her to make a report. The office of Vichy’s central committee that’s being used as the queen’s office as is was gradually getting buried in documents. In a corner of the room Nyarl and Pheres are sorting documents while breathing heavily. Vepar, who had become troubled by the increasing amount of documents, ordered the two to sort the documents by their level of urgency. The man threw a fleeting glance at Nyarl who is processing documents while continuously grumbling, but he didn’t address her. “The disguise was perfect, so I certainly didn’t expect them to see through it. It’s my blunder.” “Since you came back to report after properly passing on the signed letter, you don’t have to worry over it too much. As I might ask you to infiltrate them once more, you just have to be careful at that time.” (Vepar) “Yes, Your Majesty. If you allow me another opportunity, I’d like to show you that I can accomplish my mission even more perfectly.” According to the information brought back by him, Hifumi has resigned as feudal lord and is staying in the capital of the country called Orsongrande. Also, it’s possible for the country called Horant and Orsongrande to have formed a cooperative alliance. “Certainly I didn’t expect him to retire, much less to say about him staying in the capital.” (Vepar) After telling the man that they would talk about the reward on another day and having him withdraw, Vepar looks up to the ceiling while saying, “That was a surprise,” and covered her face with both hands. “If I had known about that, I wouldn’t have written about going to their capital! Please give me a break. If I’m careless, it’s not unlikely that something unnecessary might happen between the demons and humans. Not just the ceasefire might be a lost case then.” (Vepar) He won’t go as far as causing a disturbance in the capital of the country he belongs to “If he did something like that, it would only result in him turning both sides, humans and demons, into enemies with the castle as stage.” (Vepar) She drowns out her anxiety by deliberately laughing it off loudly. Nyarl and Pheres look at her with faces full of pity, but at this point she felt as if she knows how she’s regarded by her subordinates. When her emotions finally settled down after laughing for a while, Bashim entered the room hurriedly. He’s the man who commanded the attack on Vichy as general of the demons and who had one of his arms stolen by Hifumi. The man, who wore a metallic armor, proceeded towards Vepar with rough steps and knelt down with a thump. “I heard that you sent an envoy to the human city!” (Bashim) “Rather than an envoy, I only sent a letter to them. What about it?” (Vepar)magic I won’t go as far as telling him to show some respect, but if I plan to go to another country to have an exchange with them as an organization that’s called a state, I should make sure that he can show respect towards his queen, even if it’s only for form’s sake. Vepar didn’t have the slightest intention to raise Bashim, who doesn’t look as if he would be able to do that, above his current position. “Just what have you written in the letter you sent? Certainly it’s something like a recommendation to surrender, right?” (Bashim) We are in a situation where we are losing against the humans, which includes you yourself as well. Haven’t you guys been continuously telling yourself that you are overwhelmingly superior while repeatedly covering up the reality with excuses such as missing the means to attack? No matter how you look at it, the war progress isn’t in any situation to recommend surrender, but for Bashim sending a letter to the enemy probably is limited to using it as provocation or as capitulation recommendation. . Since such a rude fellow is nothing more than a hindrance for Vepar in her management of the organization, she was at the point of wanting to get rid of him as soon as possible, but it was a problem that he has so much power that he can be used to make up for numbers if placed on a battlefield. Besides, the contact with Orsongrande at the same time also serves as camouflage towards the hawks in the demon army. “If you only look at the content of the letter it looks as if we are sounding them out about a discussion to conclude peace through a ceasefire.” (Vepar) “Ceasefire, you said!? ... Excuse me. However, in the current situation there’s no way for us to lose. Not to mention that we made a whole country surrender. Even now we are polishing a two-front-strategy without any big losses. At the current stage a ceasefire, moreover one proposed by us, is unnecessary and a foolish move.” (Bashim) , reaching that point, she understood the reason why Hifumi, who came to the demon territory, started a conversation with the demons without going on a rampage right away after entering the city while being led by Phegor. “Calm yourself.” (Vepar) “But...” (Bashim) “The armistice is just a means. Bashim, you know about my restrictions for new transfer destinations, don’t you?” (Vepar) The transfer destinations are limited to set-up “marks filled with Vepar’s mana” or places she herself had visited. Considering the possibility of the demon army’s hawks coming up with strange proposals, Vepar quickly announced the flaw of her own magic. “Ooh! In other words, the favor of you, Your Majesty, personally heading into the center of the enemy territory is a preparation to smash the enemy headquarter in one swipe!” (Bashim) I skillfully managed to deceive him . “If you understand, have the soldiers train. At worst, if it develops into me being injured in the capital, the battle will start there.” Bashim, who left with his face being all smiles, is certainly heading to the soldiers and gleefully spreading the strategy he heard in the conversation just now. And then he should come attacking with the highly-spirited soldiers under one command. “I think I will call them at the moment when it seems that Hifumi is holding that sword.” (Vepar) And then I will have him become a splendid shield to buy time for allowing his queen to escape. Let’s choose someone, who can guess what their queen thinks a bit better, as Bashim’s successor. All of a sudden she called out to the two who still grappled with the documents inside the room. “Nyarl, Pheres, don’t you want to have try on becoming a general?” (Vepar) “Absolutely not.” (Pheres) Pheres replied immediately and Nyarl also kept nodding her head repeatedly in agreement.

The murder of a beastman by another beastman caused a disturbance among the beastmen of the slums. Although it was the slums, they didn’t interfere with each other unless one was a great outlaw. Since it was right now also a phase, where everyone was actually experiencing the city improving, the search for the culprit, mainly by the people who witnessed it, was tinged with a mania. “So now it has come to the talk whether it’s not necessary to patrol the slums as well ~ssu.” (Gengu) For Gengu there’s also the situation of one of his own tribe getting killed. Taking the initiative, he was looking everywhere for the bearman, who has been named as culprit. “I’m doing my best at searching too, but it is quite difficult.” (Reni) “I do know that, but why are you telling this to me...?” (Gengu) Reni answered with a troubled expression to Gengu, who stuck out his tongue with a laugh. “Rather than someone like me, isn’t such a thing a speciality for a dogman like Gengu-san?” (Reni) “However, Hifumi-san’s leading slaves are Reni-san and Helen-san. I believe it to be wrong, if I don’t ask about your opinion first ~ssu.” (Gengu) “Since when did we become leaders...? Surely it’s not because you have cold feet to directly consult with Hifumi-san due to being scared or such, is it?” (Helen) Gengu unintentionally lets his look swim due to the partially teasing words of Helen. “Bull’s-eye!? Even if it isn’t at the level of a tiger, a dogman should be plenty powerful, no?” “That man is special! Impossible, it’s impossible even for tigers or wolves. That man’s strength is unrelated to being a human or such. Therefore, I thought it would be possible to request the favourite people of that man to put in a bit of a good word ~ssu.” (Gengu) “Just a second, who is Hifumi-san’s favourite?” (Helen) Due to Helen’s objection, Gengu tilted his head with a “Huh?” “I hear that you were together with him from the beginning, when you entered this country, though ~ssu. You have a good relationship with Hifumi-san, right?” (Gengu) “What good relationship?” (Helen) Helen has become speechless with a red face, however Reni didn’t understand the meaning of Gengu’s words and is staring at him in puzzlement. In reverse Gengu was surprised that they were still children to such an extent. “This is, I of all people, have made a terrible misunderstanding...” (Gengu) “Really! Don’t get such weird ideas, okay!?” (Helen) Being angry with a huff, Helen’s ears stood on end and she ended up going somewhere. “Oops~” (Gengu) “It’s alright, Gengu-san. I will talk with Helen later. Leaving that aside, at the time something is stolen or people get killed, it seems that soldiers will investigate and arrest the bad person in the human’s city.” (Reni) “Soldiers, it is? About this, to leave it to human soldiers is...” (Gengu) “Well, then isn’t it fine if it’s not humans?” (Reni) “Ha?” (Gengu) “If we beastmen are able to cultivate land and run stores like humans, won’t we be able to do the same job like the soldier-san’s as well?” (Reni) Gengu, who had dropped his shoulders, raises his head as if jumping up and runs away to gather his friends. “Off he went...” (Reni) Seeing off Gengu, whose figure vanished from sight within the blink of an eye, Reni began the continuation of her studies. What she is currently reading are the teaching materials used as examination to become a civil official of Fokalore. It’s content, which, putting Caim aside, took Doelgar and Paryu quite the troubles to remember, but Reni smoothly and obediently learns them as she has absolutely no prejudices either. “Phew... the human’s studying, it’s quite hard.” (Reni) ☺☻☺ The beastmen association, which was formed with a few words of Reni, was a filthy, grim group of men proud of their strength, but they were extremely superior as vigilante corps. Patrolling the slums during the breaks of their own work, they solve crimes and lesser problems. They also actively move for things like sheltering new beastmen, who escaped from the humans, take care of drunkards and protect lost children. They have become an organisation, that gathers trust, with many more tasks than human soldiers. Facilitating even the acceptance of beastmen, who weren’t able to find good work for the aptitude they possess, the increase of their numbers accelerated with Gengu playing a leading role. Discovering the corpses of human soldiers at the entrance of the slums again and again, it naturally even reached the point of the vigilante corps relying on the humans, entering and leaving, since those were bloody incidents, too. And, the one, they had their eyes on, was Hifumi. “Ho ho, aren’t you planning something quite interesting.” (Hifumi) “H-Hifumi-san!?” (Gengu) Due to Hifumi suddenly making an appearance at the old building, which is serving as headquarters of the vigilante corps, Gengu stood up in a hurry and brought the chair with the cleanest state. “Ah, don’t mind me. Rather than that, something like establishing a vigilante corps, aren’t you passing your time in a wonderful way?” (Hifumi) “No, not at all! It’s thanks to having received a hint from Reni-san ~ssu. As they are originally clumsy guys, who have no brains and are only good at fighting, this is a comfortable gathering of people.” (Gengu) Once asked, there are around guys working full-time and around beastmen, who are treated as reserve corps helping on the patrols while doing other jobs. Basically they are operating with the donations of beastmen stores, but there is also a part of donations coming from humans. “At present we are somehow able to handle it. ... But, we haven’t been able to find that beast murderer yet...” (Gengu) Hifumi gently called out to Gengu, who lowered his voice and showed is fangs looking frustrated. “Well, don’t give up. However, if you can’t even find him in these confined slums while using such a number of people, isn’t it likely that he’s not in the slums anymore?” (Hifumi) “In other words, he left towards the wastelands, is what you are saying?” (Gengu) “No, it’s something else.” (Hifumi) Hifumi shakes his head. “I heard it from other guys too, but that criminal spoke with hostility towards the slums’ people before, right? And, that guy freed several beastmen from the humans. Do you believe such fellow will sneakily return to the wastelands?” (Hifumi) “Then, did he go to where the humans live?” (Gengu) “You should consider that possibility too, right?” (Hifumi) “Such a... Well, then we won’t be able to pursue him anymore, eh...” (Gengu) Hifumi lightly hit the discouraged Gengu with his fist. “You give up far too easily, idiot.” (Hifumi) “Eh? Is there some... way?” (Gengu) Hifumi, who dropped his fist on Gengu’s head, breathed out a “You moron.” “Ponder about it with your group a bit. Putting that aside, it seems like you should prepare more seriously, I came to tell you that.” (Hifumi) “Is there something going on ~ssu?” (Gengu) Due to Gengu asking while rubbing his head, Hifumi folds his arms and continues to explain. “Yea, for the last few days soldiers have frequently tried to enter the slums here during the night. “By accident” I happened to pass by and since the other side attacked me by drawing their swords, although I haven’t done anything, they rolled around on the road being beaten and killed every time, but...” (Hifumi) “So Hifumi-san was the cause of those soldier’s corpses, huh...?” (Gengu) Gengu, who tensed his mind with “Good gracious, it’s the bearman’s doing, eh?”, becomes bitter at himself. He believes that “by accident” or such to be a lie, however since he values his life, he doesn’t voice that out. “It seems, as result of the soldiers not coming back, they will team up with a knight group and come to the slums.” (Hifumi) “Such a thing! But, why do you know about that?” (Gengu) “Touring down-town, I grasped the castle buying food up, the nobles employing weapon shops for maintenance and increasingly ordering new weapons. There are talks about the increase of requests regarding something like harness adjustment. Since the soldiers here don’t use horses, the ones moving are likely the knights. There are also rumours that the knight’s training increased. Because I’m unable to think of any other reason for the knights to expressly move at this point in time, I dare say that their aim is likely this place here.” (Hifumi) “So, what will you do?” Hifumi asked, but Gengu wasn’t in a state of being able to answer due to the shock. “I-It’s a disaster...” (Gengu) “Calm down.” (Hifumi) Receiving Hifumi’s poke in the forehead due to his nose running, Gengu drops to the floor, rolls over a few times and faints in agony. “The way to deal with the knights is simple. First, humans are weak. Using horses, they barely manage to catch up with your beastmen feet. Using swords, they are somehow able to cause injuries to you guys.” (Hifumi) “Eh? Then you are no human after all, are you, Hifumi-san...?” (Gengu) Gengu had a fist lowered at him once again. “Don’t change the subject. In other words, if you fight using your head and the same weapons, it will be a situation where you don’t have to be afraid of knight and their likes at all.” (Hifumi) While Hifumi, who stood up, corrected the position of the katana at his waist, he looked down on Gengu, who has been showing his belly having fallen to the ground. “Gather the guys, who have spare time. I will teach them the way of fighting.” (Hifumi) ☺☻☺ Salgu himself was aware of being in a state you couldn’t call sane anymore. He looks at the beastmen, who are enslaved by humans, specifies the house, they are attached to, for later and waits for them to fall asleep to kill the family during that time. And he saves the beastmen, who have become slaves, but... “What do you want me to do by saving me here?” The wolf beastman, who lost all its claws on both paws, doesn’t even get up from the corner of the stable. “Even I hated the humans at the beginning. But you know, if you get to know that, rather than living in the wastelands, the way of being the human’s slave is quite safe, comfortable and that you are able to eat food, there’s nothing to return to in the wastelands except danger.” “...Is, that so...?” (Salgu) “Even if I lost my usefulness, I won’t be killed, you know. It seems I will be thrown into the slums, but since I will receive sufficient of the human’s leftovers there, it appears I will be able to survive with small* rationed portions.” “Seeing that my masters died, I guess there’s nothing left for me but to go there too”, the grumbling wolf beastman laughed weakly. The expression of Salgu, who looks down on him, can’t be seen by the wolf beastman under the cover of the dark night. “Don’t you feel the wish to return to the wastelands?” (Salgu)magic “Eh? The wastelands, I miss them, but...” Laughing foolishly, the wolf beastman shakes its head. It seems that he is shaking off some unpleasant memory with that gesture. “That place is a hell. You run from place to place like the rabbits and sheep or you have no choice but to continuously repeat a daily life of killing or being killed without even the time to sleep restfully. It’s not a place where you can sleep with a peace of mind like this place either. I don’t want to experience the sensation of hunger, which grows violent due to the hardships to look for food, anymore.” “Is that so? Got it.” (Salgu) Salgu brought down his fist, drove it into the face of the wolf beastman, who looked up at him, and sunk it it into flesh and blood with a soggy sound. Staring at the fist, he extracted from the face with a wet sound, Salgu pondered. There’s intense pain within his head, which has stirred up his thoughts like noise, but even so, he pondered. “This city in itself has been a bad influence on the beastmen...” (Salgu) The food, given by humans, the buildings, the livelihood, all of that caused the beastmen to lose the spirit, they should originally have He repeatedly puzzles over countermeasure with his head hurting strongly. He sits down besides the fallen corpse of the wolf beastman in the stable, which is filled with the smell of blood. “Calm down. If I smash up the humans, everything should come to an end.” (Salgu) Salgu’s eyes are looking at the face of the dead wolf beastman. It’s completely as if he’s talking to him. “That’s right. If I’m able to crush the boss of the humans too, the human city will be finished as well.” (Salgu) Standing up, Salgu reached the point of being able to believe that things have become extremely clear in his head. He walks forth in order to accomplish the clear, simple, decided matter. “The human’s boss, where is he...?” (Salgu) An insane bearman walks through the city’s night.

The soldiers of Horant, who escaped without even a single one experiencing Hifumi’s threat, headed in the direction of the capital city to run away from the border where the mayhem continues while dawn hasn’t broken. More or less they have entrusted the message “it’s for the sake of informing the capital’ for their superiors to another soldier so that it isn’t considered as fleeing, but since they haven’t received an order, they will likely be treated as deserters, strictly speaking. However, that much doesn’t seem to be apparent to those running away themselves. They took advantage of the chaos, procured a carriage by giving the same reason from before and vigorously rushed out towards the highway. Hifumi, who made sure of that up to that point, seizes a warhorse, which was set free from the stable temporarily due to the fire, and follows the carriage at a distance where he can’t be confirmed by sight. Although there isn’t any harness attached, he skilfully keeps balance with a half-lotus position where he placed the top of his right foot on his left knee. “They are slow.” (Hifumi) In the long run the speed between a carriage and a single rider will be different. Hifumi, who felt troubled by having to regulate so that he doesn’t suddenly overtake them, ended up going too far while the carriage’s soldiers made camp. Because it was a route he remembered, he decides to go ahead while expecting them to head in the direction of the capital city. “If I’m going to have a chat anyway, I guess the guys at the top are better.” (Hifumi) Though it was a horse he chose by intuition, it was apparently a winner. Exhibiting its splendid leg strength of a swift, fawn-coloured horse, he reached a location where he could see the capital city after three days. Hifumi, who approached a village in the vicinity, decides to give the horse into custody to a farmer, who was there, after handing him some money. Lying down after borrowing a shed the farmer uses, he waited for the night. The capital city of Horant, Adolameruk. Although it’s a country that currently has no legitimate ruler, the confusion of Prime Minister Kuzemu grasping the power within the castle has no effect on the populace and lower soldiers. The city was relatively calm. Of course the confrontation with Orsongrande has raised unease amongst the people. There’s also the matter of Kuzemu deliberately announcing that the successor, Nelgal, “is deemed to be taken prisoner by Orsongrande.” It has reached the point that many soldiers can be seen controlling and guarding the city and the security at the entrance to the city has become strict as well. However, compared to what they felt to be strict, it was in a word, 「weak」, in Hifumi’s case. With the number of soldiers, who are standing absent-mindedly in front of the closed gate while holding their spears, being , are they careless because they are far from the border? Several sentries, who are lazily walking around without any motivation, are visible. Without there being even a single of them who realized Hifumi’s figure closing in while taking advantage of the night’s blackness, there was no one questioning him even when he invaded by scaling the wall smoothly. Hifumi, who got angry once again, continuing after the soldiers at the national border, due to there being no more than this level of surveillance even in the capital city, heads silently to the castle while killing his footsteps nevertheless. “I did go around killing the soldiers the last time I came here, didn’t I? That was fun. Setting aside the crown prince’s way of doing things, they fought while doing their best. However, even if I just did the same thing, it would be boring.” (Hifumi) While muttering under his breath, the figure of Hifumi blended with the buildings’ shades and he vanished as if melting away and went towards the castle. ☺☻☺ When Vaiya’s vanguard unit, which took Viine and the others along, arrived at the defence encampment where Imeraria waits it was just the time of Hifumi leaving the horse in the village with the capital city right in front of his eyes. The sun is starting to sink, there are heavy clouds, which are thinly sticking to the sky, and a light rain is falling. “The Knight Vaiya has arrived just now.” (Vaiya) Seeing Vaiya, who visited the tent with Imeraria in it to report his arrival, being wet due to the rain, a maid quietly handed him a towel. “Vaiya-san, I’m sorry for having you come here in hurry.” (Imeraria) “It’s for Your esteemed Majesty. I feel that I want to receive your appreciation and praises after I obtained military results.” (Vaiya) Vaiya showing a feeling of being obliged in an exaggerated manner to a degree that it can be regarded as ridiculous is for the sake of him easing his own tension of having entered the battlefield “Although he was the type who wears clothes as too serious person since the time when he was still in the Second Knight Order, his character mellowed out after the training in Fokalore and getting married”, she recalls Sabnak having mentioned that at some time. Once she looks casually, Vaiya is still in the state of standing without sitting down. “What’s wrong?” (Imeraria) “As a matter of fact, there are people accompanying me...” (Vaiya) “Accompanying, you say?” (Imeraria) “Yes, as they named themselves as acquaintances of Earl Tohno, they told me that they want to meet with him. They have joined me after I took over from Fokalore’s civil official, Paryu-san. Those fellow travellers are unique. It’s my humble wish to have them introduced to Your Majesty on this occasion.” (Vaiya) Imeraria pondered, but Vaiya shouldn’t have brought along anyone suspicious either. “Where are those people?” (Imeraria) “Currently they are in the middle of talking with Captain Sabnak.” (Vaiya) , Imeraria made a maid go contact Sabnak so that they will enter the tent together with him. “How’s the situation in the capital?” (Imeraria) “There haven’t been any particular problems. Even as for the public order, since I requested Midas-san to handle it, there won’t be any issues, I think? There don’t seem to be any particular moves in Vichy’s direction either.” (Vaiya) Intentionally mentioning it as in the “direction” of Vichy includes Fokalore as well. “Your Majesty, for you to reinforce our war potential at this time, were there some movements by Horant?” (Vaiya) Due to Vaiya talking uneasily, Imeraria smiles calmly. “The ones moving will be our side. The full details will be explained at the next war council.” (Imeraria) “It’s Sabnak. Umm, I brought the, guests?” (Sabnak) Sabnak’s voice was audible from outside the tent, but Imeraria knitted her eyebrows due to his evasive manner of speech. “Please enter.” (Imeraria) “Excuse me.” (Sabnak) The one who entered the tent first was Sabnak. And, seeing the four who followed after him, Imeraria became speechless. “Your Majesty, these are the gentlemen and ladies from the wastelands who crossed a great distance to meet with Earl Tohno.” (Sabnak) “I’m the elf Puuse.” “I’m Viine.” “I’m called Gengu ~ssu.” “I-I am, M-Malfas!” “... Your Majesty?” “... Ha!” (Imeraria) Imeraria was in a state of having her mouth opened while looking at the beastmen, but recovering due to Sabnak’s call, she elegantly wipes the edges of her mouth with a handkerchief. “I’m the queen of Orsongrande Kingdom, Imeraria. It looks like it was a long trip from the wastelands. It’s the first time for me to encounter elves and beastmen, but... do you understand my words?” (Imeraria) Looking at each other’s faces, Puuse takes one step forward. “Queen-sama, we are using the same language. I think a conversation won’t be a problem?” (Puuse) “So, about the matter of having come to meet with Hifumi-sama...” (Imeraria) After asking several questions, Imeraria arranged for Puuse’s group to be allowed using separate tents for men and women out of consideration that they can wait for Hifumi in the encampment. Once Puuse and the others, who are grateful for the warm reception, left while being led by maids, Imeraria sank her back into the sofa while curbing her brows. “... What did Hifumi-sama do in the wastelands? Really, something like a beastwoman chasing him up to here.” (Imeraria) Alongside a deep sigh, she drinks her cold black tea. “Anyway, it was a saving grace that Origa-san wasn’t here. Sabnak-san, I leave it to you that they and Origa-san don’t run into each other until Hifumi-sama returns.” (Imeraria) “Aren’t you imagining too much there? They are people who have likewise fallen in love with Hifumi-san, so if they get along well...” (Sabnak) “Sabnak-san, you are naive.” (Imeraria) She stabs Sabnak with an unusually sharp gaze. “The rabbit beastman-san just now... Viine-san came here while saying an admirable thing like she just wants to be at his side, however do you believe that Origa-san will allow that?” (Imeraria) “Uuh...” (Sabnak) “And, the moment a quarrel occurs between them, will you be able to remonstrate them to be nice to each other, Sabnak-san?” (Imeraria) “I-Isn’t that a task that exceeds my abilities...?” (Sabnak) Imeraria’s gaze switches from Sabnak to Vaiya. “Even for me, to barge in on such situation is a bit...” (Vaiya) Hearing the timid answers of the two adults, Imeraria sighed deeply. “We will be able to form a relationship with the elves, who are said to wield powerful magic, and the beastmen who were our former enemy. That in itself is something great. The matter of creating a friendship with them will likely be of benefit for Orsongrande.” (Imeraria) “For that reason”, Imeraria made a short pause. “We should avoid unnecessary troubles to the best of our abilities. Even Origa-san will be obedient in front of Hifumi-sama. I will also request Alyssa-san to lay the groundwork thoroughly.” (Imeraria) “”Acknowledged.”” (Sabnak & Vaiya) Imeraria informed the two, who matched their voices, about another matter. “I will explain the strategy, I drew up, before the arrival of the main force. Let’s have dinner together. You two and Alyssa-san. And let’s invite those beastmen from before as well. I will have them decide whether they want to stay at Münster temporarily or remain here after explaining the current state.” (Imeraria) It looks like it will take a full two days for the main force of the reinforcements to arrive even if they are quick. It will also be necessary to explain things to Nelgal who will arrive together with the main army, but I will push this strategy forth even if I have to basically threaten him, All of it is for the sake of her squaring off against Hifumi while keeping her pride as queen. ☺☻☺ “Bast-...” Before the guarding soldier finished speaking, Hifumi cut his windpipe just slightly with the tip of his katana in one go and the body, which had lost its soul, collapsed alongside a sound of air leaking out. “It’s this. I came here to complain about this.” (Hifumi) While lowering the drawn katana, Hifumi stands in front of Horant’s prime minster who was sitting at his desk. “W-Who are you bastard...?” (Kuzemu) “The lord of Fokalore, Hifumi. The man who killed this place’s crown prince.” (Hifumi) “What...” (Kuzemu) Kuzemu, who has become pale while drenched in sweat, carefully examines the man standing in front of him from top to bottom. Kuzemu himself never saw Hifumi, but he was aware about the person called Hifumi and about the uproar within the castle. “How foolish. To reach this place all by yourself...” (Kuzemu) “That’s it. That.” (Hifumi) Hifumi points at the corpse of the soldier he killed himself a moment ago. “It’s the same for this guy as well, but you are far too careless. Entering the country, entering the city and entering the castle, all of it was at a level of being extremely easy to degree of making me yawn. Your men are just walking around leisurely and don’t have any kind of vigilance in addition to that either. Isn’t that as if you are telling me to break in?” (Hifumi) “For example”, Hifumi retrieved a light magic tool from his darkness storage. “I can’t use anything but darkness magic, but research in magic has advanced in Horant, right? I heard that even this lamp was created in Horant. In that case, noticing an intruder, sounding a general alert once someone discovered an enemy or doing various things is possible, isn’t it?” (Hifumi) “Uuh, but such things, except for those intended for battle, are developed by private merchants... buh!?” (Kuzemu) Just as he began to line up excuses, Hifumi slapped Kuzemu’s cheek with his palm after stabbing the katana into the floor. Is his field of vision flickering? Hifumi brings his face close to Kuzemu who is repeatedly blinking. “You, don’t you think that a method for attacking means it is intended for battle?” (Hifumi) Picking up the katana, he holds it out in front of Kuzemu’s eyes so that he can see its hamon. Hifumi, who turns the blade towards below and shifts the handle into his left hand, intended to show it, but Kuzemu was unable to consider it as anything else but threatening. He feels uneasy whether the ominously shining blade will cut his own throat in the same manner as the guard’s. “A weapon is fine as weapon. If it’s polished up as item that steals a person’s life, it is beautifully sublimed.” (Hifumi) Drawing back the katana, he returns it into its scabbard. “But you know, while it may be strong at attacking that doesn’t mean that one can win. It isn’t just a mutual competition and confrontation. Now matter how strong a weapon might be, it will be meaningless if you aren’t able to find a gap to use it.” (Hifumi) What Hifumi pointed at was the sword which hung at the waist of the corpse. Recognising him as intruder, the soldier tried to call out and yet he didn’t even touch the hilt. “W-What do you want to tell me?” (Kuzemu) “You don’t understand?” (Hifumi) Going away from in front of Kuzemu, Hifumi removed the katana from his waist and sat down on a sofa with a flump. “You are able to use magic. You were born into this world at great pains. If you are able to use earth magic, you will probably be able to camouflage a trap perfectly. If you can use wind magic, it’s possible to survey a somewhat wide range. If it’s fire magic, one can light a signal fire without using tools. Even by thinking about it for a bit, there are this many possible applications.” (Hifumi) “Are you asshole telling me that Orsongrande’s military has advanced this far?” (Kuzemu) “No?” (Hifumi) Kuzemu looked at Hifumi, who shook his head as he smiled, while wiping away the sweat. “I wonder whether I gave Orsongrande a bit too much of an advantage. Although it looks like you created a slightly big toy in Horant, those are no good. Even the techniques taught to you by the instruction unit sent by me have parts similar to imitating just the upper surface.” (Hifumi) “Therefore”, Hifumi tapped the scabbard of his katana. “I decided to give you various hints regarding magic which is the distinctive characteristic of Horant.” (Hifumi) “I-Isn’t that an act that serves the interests of your enemy!? What are you planning!?” (Kuzemu) “What a foolish thing to say. The current you doesn’t even amount to being an enemy for me. Thus it isn’t an act that serves the interests of my enemy.” (Hifumi) “T-That’s sophistry!” (Kuzemu) “Even if it’s sophistry, that’s fine. Do you know? A weakling uses sophistry to gloss over, but the strong one uses it while persisting with their egoism.” (Hifumi) “So, what are you telling me to do?” (Kuzemu) Finding it already difficult to bring it to a close with words in this situation, Kuzemu asks Hifumi that. “Since the border probably has already broken down due to the attacks of Orsongrande’s side, I shall instruct you magic techniques I came up with in order for you to retake the border or to defend. I have only the darkness attribute, thus it will just be the theory though. Hey! Hurry up and summon the magicians in charge or the researchers. I don’t have the time to idle around here. The evil hand of Orsongrande might be reaching for this place soon.” (Hifumi) While saying that, Hifumi rung the bell on top of a low table which is located in front of the sofa.magic A maid immediately enters the room. The maid, who entered while looking down, screamed when she discovered the soldier’s corpse. “Black tea, please. Also, I’d like something I can take out.” (Hifumi) Hifumi tells the frightened maid his order. Due to the words of an unknown person, the maid looked at Kuzemu in her search for help. “... Prepare it as you were told. And, can you call someone of the castle’s magic researchers?” (Kuzemu) Once the maid leaves the room as if running away, Hifumi looks into Kuzemu’s eyes. Joy is clearly visible on his face. “Do your best. Imeraria is an amateur, but Fokalore’s soldiers are considerably powerful. I don’t care what you want to do in the end, but you have to persist here for the sake of achieving your dreams.” (Hifumi) Standing up, Hifumi hit Kuzemu’s shoulder. “Let’s have a real war with a properly large number of people dying. Okay?” (Hifumi) Kuzemu was unable to reply as he was merely trembling.

Completely disregarding the silent Pajou and the Orsongrande Knights, and the equally silent Alyssa from Vichy, Hifumi called out to Origa and Kasha. 「 Well then, let’s get a move on. 」 Saying so, Hifumi turned towards the horses, only to be stopped by a panicking Alyssa. 「 W-wait a minute! You’re leaving just like that? 」 「 Aa? I really don’t care about discussions. I was attacked, I responded. That’s it. 」 「 Don’t mind him, he’s just like that.... You’re from Vichy, yes? I am a Knight from Orsongrande, Pajou. And you? 」 「 Ah, I am Alyssa. That is, I don’t particularly have a title.... 」 [TN: she uses the male informal ‘boku’ here] Noting the difference in status between them, Alyssa unintentionally shrank and spoke timidly. Pajou laughed elegantly, extending her right hand. 「 I’m pleased you were able to survive the incident. 」 As they shook hands, Alyssa composed herself. Somehow, she gives off the feeling of an adult woman... (Alyssa) 「 Well then, let us speak of what to do after this. We will be acting as immigration control for our country until order is restored. Since the criminal was related to our country, please let us collect his and our soldier’s bodies. 」 「 Aah, y-yes. 」 Alyssa inadvertently agreed to Pajou’s smooth and flowing speech. Originally, the Vichy side should be documenting the bodies and damage, becoming important in their investigations. Moreover, the scene of the crime was on the Vichy side, thereby falling under Vichy’s jurisdiction, no matter the involved parties. Alyssa was definitely not going to avoid a penalty for this. While waiting for Hifumi, Origa overheard the conversation. She gazed at Alyssa with pity in her gaze, Alyssa seemed to not have noticed the predicament she was in. Seeing that Pajou had skilfully monopolized the investigation with some underhanded methods, she chuckled to herself. Entering Vichy would not be a nice event. The other side’s Knights would be the source of plenty of problems. In any case, Pajou was relieved that no more complex situations would crop up. 「 Anyway, Alyssa-san, isn’t there going to be assistance from Vichy? 」 「 That’s right! Ah, but...... it’s impossible, there’s no one on the Vichy side but me. 」 Seals and signatures of approval are necessary from both sides for merchants and travellers to cross boundaries. In case either of them are missing, it is considered as an illegal entry into the country. Of course, there is the aspect of national defence too, evacuating the place is a problem. The Vichy side had been completely annihilated, leaving no available means of communication. Hifumi returned on horseback to where Alyssa was contemplating further actions. 「 Pajou, take care of the departure formalities. 」 Hifumi passed her the documents; Pajou took them and affixed the necessary seals and signatures on it. Meanwhile, the corpse of the soldier had been dragged over. 「 Ne, ne~.. 」 Alyssa called out to the waiting Hifumi without hesitation. 「 What? 」 「 I have a small request... 」 Alyssa asked Hifumi to relay a message to the first guardroom they saw on the highway after entering Vichy. 「 Please convey the current situation and inform that I am requesting reinforcements. 」 Hifumi considered for a moment, then nodded. 「 However, you will have to tell me about the town in Vichy. 」 「 Great! Thank you! 」 Entirely believing Hifumi’s made-up reason of sightseeing a large town, Alyssa happily gave them a detailed explanation. 「 So the capital city can be reached in about days via carriage? 」 Alyssa replied to Origa’s question with a smile. 「 That’s right. From here, you can go to the capital, the highway passes near the Horant border in a wide curve. 」 「 Hee, the road passes by Horant, the place from where those evil magic tools came from. 」 While Kasha was smirking, Hifumi voiced a question.magic 「 Hm? Orsongrande and Horant’s borders also touch, did you take a deliberate detour? 」 To his question, Pajou explained. Originally, when the genius magician established Horant as independent, a considerable part of Orsongrande was invaded. As a result, there were a few skirmishes and now there is little interaction between the two. 「 Alyssa-san, I have a request. 」 「 Ah, I understand. 」 Alyssa received and cleared Hifumi’s travel pass and Pajou continued, 「 Therefore, if a magician from Horant ‘lawfully’ enters, there is a possibility of obtaining formal permission to leave Vishy as well. 」 With someone from Vichy as a guide, and with the formal approval of Viscount Hagenti, it is possible to enter Orsongrande freely. Therefore, though unable to discern at what level, there might be someone with power in Vichy connected to Horant in no small way, Pajou surmised. 「 Now that you mention it, it is highly likely that someone is behind Beirevra. 」 Though complicated in various ways, Hifumi is troublesome, but not irresponsible so as to decline the request that requires leaving the country. 「 Well then, in any case he’s entering Vichy to take in various sights. 」 Hifumi, who had collected the permit from Alyssa announced their departure to Origa and Kasha. They advanced along the highway, reaching the town called Aroseru by carriage in about hours. As per Alyssa’s explanation, a town enclosed by a wall came into view. Being close to the border, it seemed to be made in a similar fashion as Fukaroru in Orsongrande. 「 Somehow, it does not look too different from our country 」 (Kasha) Hifumi had a similar impression to Kasha. Was it because they were close by? Culturally there seemed to be no difference. To be frank, the food in Orsongrande was all right, but he had concerns about the food in Vichy. Then again, being close to Fukaroru, it would probably not be a problem. While showing the permit at the entrance of the town, the soldiers there directed him to their in-charge in the guardroom. 「 Surprisingly undefended. Or, how should I put it, the gatekeeper had a strangely mechanical vibe. 」 「 Mechanical? 」 「 No emotional ups or downs are visible. Just like repeating a fixed motion. 」 「 Ah, but aren’t serious soldiers supposed to be like that? 」 Though somewhat cautious, it couldn’t be helped so Hifumi entered the guardroom. He displayed the coin denoting his peerage to the person in-charge. A man in simple armour of medium height and build came out of the interior, and looking straight at Hifumi asked what business he had. His eyes were unfocused. 「 A soldier called Alyssa asked me to pass on a message. 」 Hifumi explained that all the soldiers at the border post have been killed, apart from Alyssa. When he explained that immediate assistance was required, the man thanked him for his cooperation in a smooth voice without looking the slightest bit thankful. 「 Are you staying here today? Have you decided on a hotel? 」 「 We are staying here, yes, but the hotel has not been decided. 」 「 Then if you head towards the interior of the town, there is a hotel with nice and clean rooms. There isn’t another suitable for a noble to live in. 」 「 Is that so? We’ll do that then. 」 Though slightly wary of the man’s appearance, Hifumi decided to go along with it. 「 Then, we must be going to the border post, please excuse me. 」 With a perfunctory bow to Hifumi, the man left along with a subordinate. 「 Somehow the reaction of the in-charge and the soldiers at the gate seemed a little strange. 」 Origa peevishly stated that she thought they were quite impolite to her master, a noble. 「 I’ve seen someone in a similar state before..... where was it? 」 (Hifumi) 「 After all, like in Fukaroru, are the people here planning a dirty trick too? 」(Origa) While they were taking, they reached the hotel. Since Hifumi had learnt the written characters, he could recognise the name. 「 Here? 」 The horses were tethered outside,they pushed open the wooden door and went in. There was a small counter in what appeared to be a spacious dining hall. 「 Welcome! silver coins for one room for a night. There are double rooms. There is no room to put or more people in one. 3 silver coins per horse. They will be moved to the stable in the back. 」 There was an old man with an unsociable expression on his face sitting at the counter. 「 One single room, my companions will take a double room. 」 After depositing a pile of silver coins on the counter, the old man took out 2 keys from under the counter. 「 This is for the single room, this one is for the double room. The second floor is entirely guest rooms. Dinner will be prepared before nightfall, and served in this hall. 」 The old man fell silent after telling them the necessary information and writing down the key numbers. Taking the key, the trio went up to the 2nd floor. 「 Lie down a bit before dinner. We may have to move at night. 」 「 Is something going to happen? 」 「 After the group confirms the situation at the border, some will return to report. By that time it will most likely be night. If we have to move, it will be then. 」 After a light lunch, it was decided that they would rest and after dinner, observe the street from their rooms. 「 Our opponents will not be simpletons without strategies like Alyssa. 」 Hifumi entered his room immediately after saying that. Kasha shook her head resignedly while Origa laughed. 「 But I think it’s a good thing that we can even randomly look a little for Beirevra. 」 Origa entered the room while Kasha followed, lost in thought. 「 ....... Those fellows are easy to understand. 」 On the second floor of the hotel, Hifumi murmured, lying in wait. The room was pitch-dark. Several armoured men passed by on the street after darkness fell and pedestrian traffic declined. Hifumi, who had completely acclimated his sight to the darkness saw it clearly. With hands bound behind the back, a diminutive shadow was visible walking unsteadily between two men. When they passed by the front of the hotel, it was clear the person was Alyssa. Badly beaten up, left cheek swelled and dried streams of blood coming from the mouth. It seems they have been walking for a long time, and occasionally her foot slowed, only to receive a kick from behind every time to forcibly advance. Watching the sorry situation, Origa and Kasha both murmured “How cruel”. 「 Taking her to a spot different from this afternoon’s guardroom. Well now, what to do, I wonder... 」 「 Why was Alyssa arrested? A soldier from their own country.... 」 Though her face was not visible, the speech pattern and voice identified the speaker as Origa. 「 She was the only one who survived the scene of the crime, could that be it? 」(Hifumi) 「 But why not make the most of it? Or could it be a chance to bump off the eyewitness who knows what happened? 」 「 It would be to confirm what the witness knows and to keep secrets that may get someone else into trouble. Torture, drugs.... Drugs? 」(Hifumi) Hifumi remembered the state of the soldier when they came into the town. 「 That’s it, drugs! If I remember correctly, there were drugs to stabilise the mind and if addicted, it leads to a state of losing emotions. Similar to the fellow who had that magic tool attached to him... 」 Guessing and putting his thoughts in order, Hifumi suddenly raised his head. 「 Is something the matter? 」 「 Do you need to wear armour? It seems that they are also attempting to capture us. Around 10 people are coming towards the hotel. 」 「 Fight here? I’ll pull out the lighting magic tool.... 」 「 No, no need. Before that, I’ll need to find Alyssa, she does not seem to be too far. 」 「 Eeh!? 」 「 Kasha, why are you so surprised? 」 「 No, saving a girl while enemies are coming, it does not sound like master.... 」 Seeing Kasha honestly surprised, Hifumi thought it quite vexing that his reputation was that bad. 「 I said a while ago that I was not a homicidal maniac. What Alyssa knows and may hear in the future may be valuable information. Besides, 10 people isn’t bad for a warm-up, and you two have not been instructed on how to fight in the dark. In any case, we’ll meet guys like these again. At that time, kill them well. 」 Kasha was relieved when Hifumi mentioned killing. Apparently Origa too, from her relieved expression and a quietly muttered 「 As expected from master. 」 They aren’t making fun of me are they? (Hifumi) Mulling over those doubts, Hifumi quickly pulled out his kusarigama, stuck it in the roof and quietly climbed up. While Kasha and Origa were staring at the swinging chain, they heard Hifumi’s voice from above. 「 Grab the chain and climb up. One at a time. 」 Though scared, they somehow managed to get onto the roof. The door of the room opened. It seemed that the landlord had a key. 「 ..... Escaped huh. 」 It was the voice of the person in-charge at the town gate. After noises that indicated searching for a while, they left. In the dark of the night, the soldiers left in the same direction Alyssa was taken.

The soldiers of Orsongrande, who were guided by Fokalore’s soldiers, ended up scaling the castle’s walls and tasted now the hell of getting down. Since Horant’s soldiers have rushed into the first floor, they are directly invading the second floor. For the soldiers of Fokalore, who repeatedly practised storming in with a feeling of an athletic event, climbing up to the second floor is a peace of cake. Climbing while relying on the few protuberances, the soldier, who is the vanguard, sneaks a view from a window. “Ah.” “Eh?” His eyes met with the ones of a patrolling soldier from Kuzemu’s camp who is on the other side of the window in a corridor on the second floor. The soldier from Fokalore, who propped up his body with both his hands, is unable to correspond right away and the soldier of Horant turns his back and runs away. “We were discovered. Storm in immediately since he ran away.” While saying that, he leaps inside from the window. Creating a space for his colleagues, the Fokalore soldier, who stood while making sure to cling to the corner of the corridor, swiftly checks the structure. “Offices are lined up in the corridor, a stairway in the centre... the structure is as we were taught.” From the stairs in the middle there are doors of rooms, which are used by high-ranking civil officials who possess an own office in the castle, lining up side-by-side in the long, spacious corridor. On the other side of the stairway there are large room for the sake of meetings and such lined up. “There’s no one here, huh?” While waiting for his fellow soldiers of Fokalore jumping into the corridor one after the other, he cautiously watched out, but it didn’t seem like anyone would come. From the vicinity of the stairway, likely from below, the screams of many humans can be heard. “How does it look?” “Somehow, going by the smell... it seems to be a tough battle on the first floor. The second floor is... they came!” Groups of soldiers from Horant are appearing from one of the doors that’s beyond the stairway. Each of them holds something like a bucket in their hands and the way of them coming out leisurely gives it all an eerie feeling. “What are those?” As the soldier of Fokalore observes the spectacle in front of him while being bewildered, the soldiers of Horant swing the buckets in their hands and plaster the corridor with a liquid. The large quantity of liquid, which was distributed in succession, streamed down the corridor while creating a wave in the blink of an eye and flowed up to the feet of the soldiers from Fokalore. “Uh-oh.” Once each of them took shelter on top of an opened door or a window frame, one of the soldiers of Horant, who watched as the fluid spread out, shouts loudly while looking at a scrap of paper, “Ah. We are the guards who protect this castle. As our position as guards requires, we have to remove trespassers. For that reason, allow us to hinder you.” Finishing to read the memo, the soldier of Horant folded it carefully. Stepping without hesitation on the floor, where the liquid has spread out, with a crunching sound with his feet being wrapped in something, he stands still while looking satisfied, but doesn’t do anything beyond that. “... So?” Due to the Fokalore soldier who calls out to him reflexively, the soldier of Horant nods while keeping his daunting pose. “That’s all. It’s fine for you to keep clinging like small insects, but if you bastards have any pride as soldiers, you may come at us.” “What was that!?” One of Fokalore’s soldiers is enraged, but got stopped by his friends in the vicinity. Being surrounded by a liquid of unknown identity, they judged that it would be best to not move. However, they were taught the answer by Horant’s side. Once a large amount of the fluid streams down to the first floor, panicked voices are audible. “Wai-, the oil has spread until here!?” “Ah, I have forgotten about the anti-skid measurements... aah!” There are sounds of screams alongside someone tumbling down from the vicinity of the stairway. “Oil, eh...?” Once the soldier of Fokalore looked at the soldier of Horant who had read out the declaration previously, the other party turned away their look. “... E-Even if you knew that it was oil, there’s no way to deal with it.” Watching the soldier of Horant who pretends to be tough while blushing, the soldiers of Fokalore exchanged glances with each other. “There’s no other option but to do it. Any source of ignition is banned, even sparks will be dreadful. Blades are prohibited. Let’s give them a beating.” Descending to the floor with a sound of *splash*, all of them fell over. The soldier of Fokalore, who were in a fit of anger at the soldiers of Horant who burst into laughter, attack Horant’s soldiers while falling and stumbling. An extremely gruesome fist fight begins. Even the soldiers of Horant who covered their feet with a dried, thorny weed as unique anti-skid measure of this country, are thrown into the same conditions once the thorns end up crushed underfoot by them moving around. Among them there were also some who tumbled down to the first floor with its rotten smell drifting about while struggling with one another. “... There was plenty of oil spread on the stairway leading to the third floor as well. We will stop you lot here.” A soldier of Fokalore returns a sneer to the soldier of Horant who grins broadly in the middle of showing and pushing. “Our objective ain’t breaking through.” While driving a palm heel into his chin, the soldier of Fokalore laughs while falling over due to the oil. “If we continue to compete like this, the mission is a success, I guess? We will leave the rest to the director.” ☺☻☺ “... It’s noisy below, isn’t it?” (Origa) In one office intended for high-ranking civil officials on the third floor, Origa, who sieved through the documents in Kuzemu’s room, mutters. Rummaging through documents in the same room, Viine turned around to Origa while making her one ear move with a twitch. “The uproar on the first and second floor... it looks like there are many screams on the first floor, however it seems there’s plenty of people there. Doesn’t it look like they have invaded from outside?” (Viine) Origa lowered her sight on the documents with a serious look as Viine expresses her uneasiness with “Then it would be best if we escaped.” “It’s unnecessary to worry. The ones who are attacking are the soldiers of Horant and Orsongrande. Even if they came attacking us as a joke, they won’t pass through the mob. Rather than that, did you find anything?” (Origa) The reason for them being here was to learn of Kuzemu’s objective. Making the risky large soldiers move, namely the giant soldiers and the immortal soldiers, should have had an according reason, is what Hifumi thinks and had Origa take over as his own assistant. Viine was dragged into that. “I still haven’t got used to reading the characters... ah.” (Viine) Viine put one document, which was placed on a shelf, in front of Origa. “This, it’s a report from someone, isn’t it? “The magic tool to create immortal soldiers was handed over to a messenger of Pearsan which went independent from Vichy” is written there.” (Origa) Dropping her line of sight on the document which was presented to her, Origa squinted. “Pearsan... that’s the city-state which went independent with the intention to get close to Hifumi-sama. Them having a connection with Horant... oh.” (Viine) Sensing that the air around Origa has become freezing, Viine steps back. A laughter like a breath leaking out. “Ufu, ufufufu....” (Origa) “M-Madam?” (Viine) “You did well to find this. With this I will be able to offer a new enemy to Hifumi-sama. And a new battlefield will be born.” (Origa) “I will confiscate this document”, Origa put it into her pocket after folding it three times and then started to walk towards the hallway with Viine in tow while leaving the unfolded documents as is. “... Something stinks.” (Viine) Origa couldn’t sense any more than a faint whiff of it, but Viine’s nose is better than the one of humans. She held down her nose with teary eyes. “It looks like it has risen up from below.” (Origa) “Let’s go to the top quickly then. We have to inform Hifumi-sama.” (Viine) Viine, who still pinches her nose, follows Origa who walks with her head held high while a sound of *clonk *clonk* resounds from the shoe soles of her boots. She seemed to completely fit the image of a new OL hire accompanying her career woman superior. Viine paid fleeting attention at Origa who walks without any hesitation. “Viine-san.” (Origa) “Y-Yes!” (Viine) “You have your physical ability as beastman and can also use magic... it seems that you will be able able to fight accordingly, however I’m still uneasy about you following Hifumi-sama beyond this point. Since there has been a plan established, it might be best if you train once we return to Fokalore. ... You are.” (Origa) Starting to say it, she hesitated a bit. Origa made a short pause and then turned around to Viine behind her. “Watching Hifumi-sama fight, seeing him giving an ordeal to his allies, are you still able to declare that you like Hifumi-sama?” (Origa) Due to the sudden question, Viine was confused and her ear stood up tensely. She didn’t comprehend Origa’s intention, but it didn’t change her answer. “Of course. The affection, which I experienced at the time of being bestowed the beauty of survival, is the level of master’s charm... no, even if master turns all beastmen into his enemy for example, I won’t disappear from his side.” (Viine) Hearing Viine’s reply, Origa turned around and started to walk while facing downwards. “If that’s how it is, you might be able to even endure relentless training. I will teach you the things I was taught by Hifumi-sama.” (Origa) “T-Thank you very much!” (Viine) Due to Viine thanking her while being all smiles, Origa says 「However」 without ceasing to walk. “I should make one correction. Hifumi-sama’s charm lies in the aspect of him laughing while making enemies out of not only the beastmen but also humans, demons and all living creatures including monsters.” (Origa) When Viine didn’t mutter even a single word as she didn’t know how it would be best to answer, Origa continued with a gentle tone. “There’s no need to worry. If you serve close to Hifumi-sama, you will understand it before long.” (Origa) Climbing a stairway, she pushes open the especially massive door of the fourth floor. There’s the room for the king. Different from the audience hall, where Hifumi fought with the crown prince, located on the first floor, it isn’t that spacious. However, with magnificent furnishings lining up, the throne, which was installed inside, was a work of art that applied a yet different design from the one in the audience hall. And, currently Hifumi was sitting on it. “I wonder why the back of the king’s chair is vertical. One won’t calm down on it.” (Hifumi) Ignoring Gaap, who has a pale face while asking 「I wonder if that’s alright?」 from the side, Origa directly approaches Hifumi, who is trying to search for the most comfortable seating posture, and kneels. Once Viine tried to imitate her in a hurry, Hifumi made her stop by waving his hand. “Stop, stop. I don’t want to play being a king or such. If you have some business, talk to me while properly looking at me.” (Hifumi) “Excuse me.” (Origa) Slipping out a chuckle, Origa got even closer to Hifumi, took out the previous document from her pocket and explained its contents. Hearing her talk, Hifumi grabs the katana, which was placed next to him, and stands up all of a sudden. “The next battlefield is over there, huh? Good grief, that’s terrible.” (Hifumi) Even while saying so, only a smile is showing on his face. Affixing the katana to his waist, Hifumi fluently wrote down something on two sheets of parchments which he took out from his storage and asks Origa as well as Viine, “After returning to Fokalore once, I will go to Vichy from there. What will you two do?” (Hifumi) Carefree words as if he is inviting them on a walk. Origa smiles gently. “Of course we will follow you. We will be able to leave immediately since the food has been prepared to be taken out. We will even make a bento. I will prepare it together with Viine.” (Origa) With a backward glance towards Gaap who is perplexed due to being forced to take the papers and being told that the rest is left to him, the three left the room while chatting about hot springs and local specialities in the cities along the way. “Very soon, the exit.” (Nelgal) Nelgal fills his voice while it’s intermingled with his rough breathing. Imeraria runs up the stairs in a line. The hidden escape path changed into stairs once they entered the castle’s grounds and rose towards the castle’s back. “How many floors will we ascend?” (Alyssa) While checking the height from a small window with the task of providing skylight, Alyssa asks Nelgal. Only her breathing rate hasn’t increased much. The soldiers of Horant turned their looks at her as if seeing something they can’t believe, but once their eyes met with the ones of Alyssa, they hurriedly averted theirs. For them, who also saw the battle with the immortal soldiers, Alyssa isn’t a little girl anymore but a target of fright. “It’s, the fourth floor. The pathway, is connected, to behind the, throne, there.” (Nelgal) “Hmm. Then it’s close.” (Alyssa) In contrast, the one who has the least leeway is Imeraria. Even Sabnak, who practised as knight more or less, breathed heavily while cursing the weight of his armour, but even though his breathing was painful, it was still better than the queen’s. Vaiya, who has a lot jobs on-site, has even more surplus than Sabnak. No one tried to call out to Imeraria who made her feet move by sheer will power while having her eyes widely open. When they arrived at their destination was the time when all soldiers of Horant, who stormed the first floor, had fainted and when more than half the number of the soldiers of Fokalore and Horant, who fought on the second floor, couldn’t move anymore due to fatigue. By the way, of the soldiers of Orsongrande, who did their best to invade the second floor, only five people joined the battle after climbing the wall. The rest is groaning due to injuries they suffered at the time of dropping down. “Zeha... ze, zee, ze!” (Imeraia) Imeraria, who entered the vast room from the narrow pathway, turned her sight towards Nelgal as she eagerly absorbed oxygen while holding her heart which is pounding to an extent she has never experienced. “Haa, haa... this, place is, our destination.” (Nelgal) The instant Imeraria sank down to the floor after hearing those words, Alyssa goes in front as if repelling something. “Hii!?” “Who are you?” (Alyssa) Having a wakizashi pressed at his throat, the one who screamed was Gaap. After Hifumi left, he stayed dumbfoundedly in the room without doing anything, but due to being surprised by the suddenly appearance of Nelgal, he was caught by Alyssa. “A-Aren’t you Gaap-san?” (Nelgal) “Your Majesty...” (Gaap) “I will listen to your story later. Currently there’s something I should do first.” (Nelgal) Without paying attention to the frightened Gaap, Nelgal pushed the wall next to the escape route behind the throne. A part of the wall shifts with a lighter sound of sliding than assumable by its appearance and a small metal door gets exposed. “Your Highness, Imeraria, we will perform the coronation from now on. Please act as witness.” (Nelgal) “Pheew~... Yes, of course I don’t mind.” (Imeraria) “Thank you very much.” (Nelgal) Once Nelgal pushes his ring against a small cavity which is located on the door, the door opens just a bit with a small sound. Being opened slowly, there’s a crown with gorgeous jewels embedded, a golden craftsmanship that represented a dagger in the centre and with a large diamond inserted. “This is this country’s crown.” (Nelgal) Having passed the crown into Imeraria’s hands. Nelgal kneels in front of her. “If you can approve of me as king who will govern Horant, bestow that crown upon me. If that’s not the case...” (Nelgal) “Anything further is not necessary.” (Imeraria) Imeraria moves the crown with its heavy sense of dignity above the head of Nelgal with her slender arms. “Become a good king. A splendid king who rises according to the faith of his people.” (Imeraria) “I swear. It’s all for the sake of supporting their lives by protecting my people.” (Nelgal) Sitting down on the throne, the soldiers of Horant, who followed him as guards, were at the ready on both his sides. Imeraria, Sabnak and Vaiya stand while avoiding being in front of Nelgal. Before Nelgal, who became king, Gaap kneels while having the wakizashi thrust at him by Alyssa. “Well then, let’s hear your story, Gaap?” (Nelgal) The two sheets of paper, which were entrusted to Gaap, were respectively addressed to Imeraria and Nelgal. “Good grief... for my first decree after the enthronement to be cleaning...” (Nelgal) Finishing to read the paper which explained the details of the traps and told him “Do your best at cleaning up,” Nelgal showed a bitter smile. Nelgal, who heard even from Gaap that it was something like an experiment and at the same time training with the battle in general being gentle, maintained his posture by spurring on his body which suffered from exhaustion. Sentencing a penitence for Gaap and ordering a stop of all combat to the soldiers within the castle, he calls back the servants who were evacuated. And their work starts from cleaning the castle’s interior of the oil and the rotten smell. “Well, if I consider that we were able to raise the level of the guards due to being able to practise, it might also be less objectionable. We were also able to punish a treacherous subject. Rather than me...” (Nelgal) Once he looks to the side of the room, there’s the unconscious Imeraria who is carried by Sabnak. Imeraria, who looked on the paper that had only written “A prize for doing your best” and “I’m off to Vichy,” collapsed unexpectedly as if her soul had been sucked out. “Umm, Your Majesty, King Nelgal, I’m terribly sorry, but since there are circumstances I have to attend to...” (Vaiya) Once being called out by Vaiya apologetically, Nelgal answered with a stiff smile.magic “I shall prepare a room inside the castle... no, in a close-by inn. Once Her Majesty Imeraria awakens, I’d like to have the privilege of having a talk with her once, but for now let her please rest comfortably. I will also arrange for a location for your nation’s soldiers to lodge.” (Nelgal) “That’s a very kind offer. I will definitely inform Queen Imeraria about it.” (Vaiya) Nelgal, who saw off Sabnak’s group, including Alyssa, leaving the room, exhaled while saying “Soon I will hit my limit.” “The next is Vichy? That’s far, but even if I won’t get dragged into it, it’s not limited to that. If I don’t make arrangements... at any rate, it’s too vertical as back of a chair, this.” (Nelgal) Nelgal had no self-awareness while starting to escape reality in his thoughts with

Tono Hifumi pointed the tip of his katana at a young girl’s throat. Her slender neck trembling in fear, the girl made no sounds while staring tearfully at the katana pointed at her throat. The Japanese sword is a beautiful weapon. A blade crest which is said to be the “Scent of determination” is not a simple curved surface and has a personality that carries a sharpness that sublimates the real nature of the blade. And now, It’s a beautiful girl. Hifumi, glancing at the girl thought. She had beautiful silvery grey hair, now slightly blue because of the tears falling from her clear greenish-blue pupils devoid of malice. Their eyes met. Her eyes clearly showing fear. Shaking, tears streaked down her pale cheeks. The girl does not seem like a villain. Hifumi felt doubt. Without breaking eye contact, Hifumi expanded his field of vision to encompass his surroundings. This was very difficult for ordinary people, however it was but a simple matter for Hifumi Visiting the boundary of life and death many times during his insane training has led to this result. It was an old fashioned, but luxurious, room of about tatami (EN: For a rough estimation, imagine or so twin sized beds, that’s how big the floor is). The walls were made of stone, and without windows, the only light came from the flickering torches on the walls. On the opposite side of the girl, a great double-door exit was visible. Only a foot away from the place where Hifumi and the girl stood, covered completely in armour, a Knight holding a short spear for indoor use pointed it at Hifumi with an expression of anger and shouted 「Get away from the Princess!」 He could not see behind him, but the sounds behind him gave away the number of people. At a glance, he saw that the armour was of a really tough metal. The helmets were also tight against their cheeks, having almost no weak points. He made an educated guess and thrust the point of his katana at a certain spot. Well, I guess you do now From their behavior, while feeling that there were no enemies of a comparable skill level, he recalled the circumstances that led to this situation... That day, Hifumi had finished his daily morning practice and was sitting in meditation in front of the dojo. Slowly inhaling the crisp and cold morning air, and feeling something within him stir. A slight quiver passed through him while suppressing that feeling. For Hifumi, this abnormal and severe practice of mind and matter was also a time for him to relax more than anything else. Once he reached , it seemed to have settled down, or rather, he’s acting more his age and enjoying anime, manga and novels relaxedly. Next to him lay his favorite Iaido katana. Without excessive decoration, a black sword of simple make. Although inexpensive, he’d inherited it from his master and treated it with great respect, a peerless sword. Suddenly, he sensed presences behind him. However, no malice could be felt from them. 「...Who’s there?」 「 Ho~ , to be able to sense our presences. 」 A man’s hoarse voice responded to Hifumi’s question. Turning around, Hifumi saw an old man, resembling the legendary Zeus from Greece’s mythology, and a great warrior from the Warring States era with a bone naginata hanging from his waist. Hifumi involuntarily frowns. What a mismatched duo. And... 「They’re not ..... Human? 」 Humans have a ‘feeling of life’, but that feeling of ‘life’ cannot be felt from him. 「Me, I am a real human 」 This time, the great warrior answered. Hifumi was already in a stance allowing him to draw the katana at his side instantly. 「 No need to be so nervous. Although we have some bad news, we mean you no ill-will. 」 「 Bad news?」 「 Wait a minute, before explaining, I will introduce myself. 」 The old main said while stroking his beard. 「 Well, I am a God. You might say different gods belong to different religions, as a rule of thumb, this world’s jurisdiction is under me, who is like a representative of god. And thus, those that control the military arts, the samurai, are gods. 」(TN: This confused me a little.) The man that introduced himself as the god of martial arts, folded his arms while laughing. 「 I saw something in you. Warriors have become scarce in this era, also very few practice diligently like you. With your genius abilities, with great efforts, you have broken through the limits of humans and greatly pleased the god of martial arts. 」 「 Well, I don’t know why. Even looking at the past, I was brought up in an ordinary household, with a non-interference policy. An episode that provided input to martial arts doesn’t exist. 」 As the god of martial arts said, Hifumi’s fighting power had already reached a cheat-like level. He acquired all the skills that the founder of the school left behind solely from experience, as such, it was possible to easily win against all the pupils of the dojo simultaneously in a straight-up fight, it wasn’t even funny. Though having obtained the power and desire to fight, the two presences that called themselves “God” were unable to see through it. 「 Although I say god, sensing a person’s thoughts is not possible. 」 「 We are not almighty, and as such, have some limitations. Normally, it is troublesome to manifest in this form. Our work; this world that we may call a stage, cannot be personally interfered with. We are forbidden from doing so. 」 Shaking his head, the self-styled God’s representative sighed. 「 There is no too much time, we should tell him the necessary conditions quickly, yes? 」 「 Anyway, this “Bad news” is that very soon, you will be sent to a different world. So, like the fantasy novels in your room, people from a different world have summoned you into their world. 」 When Hifumi knitted his brows, the god of martial arts corrected him. 「 Aa, that is not the case. Please do not misunderstand. 」 「 Well then, why? 」 Not believing that this person was a god, yet Hifumi sensed it was not a lie.magic 「 Someone in that world has wished for it, forcibly connecting the two worlds by 『 Distortion 』. Moreover, the mark of summoning suits you well. Unless you cross over, the distortion will not fade, causing various effects on this current world. 」 Being a bookworm who read all kinds of genres, such a situation seemed comparatively interesting to him. Simply put, these two self-styled gods had come to explain the situation, so as to clear any confusion in Hifumi’s mind. In all fairness, should they really be called gods? 「 Because of that, questions about the distortion can be freely asked, since you are a man of my world, I wish to do a little something for you. 」 「 That place is a so called world of “swords and magic”. It is a dangerous world, you can temper your martial arts to your heart’s content, without any reserve. 」 Hifumi shut his eyes and indulged in the idea for a while. Previously smouldering feelings in Hifumi were simulated. 「 Well, our discussion had been understood. 」, Hifumi, for the time being, decided to believe the story. 「 What, just defeat the Demon King on the other side, being called the hero, what else? 」 The old man answered Hifumi smilingly. 「 Rather, we don’t really care how you spend your time in that world. That world is forcibly kidnapping you, so to speak. You do not need to listen, even if you are asked for something there. 」 「 The world that we manage is messed up, it doesn’t feel right. 」 「 Moreover, that world is much different from this world, there are brutal demons and dangerous magic, various species like elves and dwarves exist. To be thrown suddenly into such a world would be very troublesome too. 」 「 We are explaining this to you beforehand so that you are not be perplexed, also you have the power to fight in that world. 」 「 For example, you can use magic... 」 Though Hifumi managed to get an image, nothing happened. 「 No, no, no, magic exists only in that world, as the image of power for a person. So, let me. 」 The old man nonchalantly raised a hand, and the katana Hifumi was holding heated up a little. 「 Apart from a god’s power, almost nothing can break this katana. Sharpness has been boosted, it won’t bend or break, and all traces of rust are removed. This is the only gift this powerless god can give you. 」 「 And from me, the divine protection of the god of martial arts. Though you stand at the top in your dojo, and might take over sometime soon, ah well.. Now, your martial arts can power up more effectively. It seems it will be useful in the other world, where it’s considerably important. 」 「 I see... 」 On receiving the explanation, Hifumi, who had obtained the divine protection suddenly got up and headed towards the straw post used for Iai strikes. A single flash. Drawn from the waist, the katana cut through the straw post, not stopping there, also damaged the wall of the dojo. 「 .... This is bad 」 I only intended to cut the straw post, but even the part not touched by the blade is broken. 「 Well, you’ll get used to handling it. 」 「 The effects of the summoning will begin soon enough.... 」 At the same time the god of martial arts mutters this, a geometrical formation appeared at Hifumi’s feet. 「 This is.... 」 「 Haa... It’s here... Hifumi, in the future, it may be difficult, but please persevere. If you wish to live, you must grow.」 「 As the god of martial arts, I wish for your martial arts to improve in that world, but do not force yourself. 」 「A moving scene, isn’t it? 」 Unexpectedly, a light voice suppressing laughter was heard. 「 .... A Death god? I do not recall having called you. 」 The god of martial arts said with a sour expression. 「 It is not because of being called 」, said a thin man wearing a tailcoat, appearing behind Hifumi. Wearing a faint smile, the pale faced, corpse-like thing spoke. 「 I have been watching him for a while. This fragrance of death he gives off is not human. 」 the Death god said and laughed. Hifumi only silently glanced at the Death god, remaining expressionless. Listening to the Death god’s words, neither affirming nor denying. 「 Do you crave for bloodletting? Now that you mention it, what is the source of your zeal for martial arts? 」 Hifumi didn’t answer the god of martial arts’ question. 「 Even the god of that world does not have such a happy thing! In that world of magic and swords, you can show your power to your heart’s content! If anything stands before you, you can cut it down with your sword! 」 Excitedly, the Death god appeared in front of Hifumi. 「 Despite the poor ability, accept this gift from me! 」 The Death god grandly gestured towards Hifumi, a black mist permeated Hifumi’s body. 「 I gave you the darkness attribute that I excel at, and you will be able to use dark magic depending on your image there, and it is at a level that exceeds human knowledge. 」 「 I will use it well. 」 「 You seem to have received it willingly. Naturally, it will not work here, but you should try it out in that world. 」 To Hifumi’s words, the Death god replied smilingly, winking at the other two gods. 「 I thank you. 」 「 Eh? 」 The upper body fell onto the floor, making a much heavier noise than expected. The Death god, his eyes filled with astonishment, opened his mouth soundlessly before collapsing and turning into sand. 「 Huh, was the god really cut that easily? I don’t know whether or not this person is a god. However, I don’t like anyone trying to use me. 」 Hifumi stared expressionlessly at the sword which reflected nothing, not even the edge was nicked. 「 Thank you for this sword. I can use this to kill without reserve. 」 As if a switch had flipped, Hifumi muttered with a ferocious smile.

“Let’s go!” (Hifumi) Approaching the town’s exit, Hifumi called out sharply while holding his katana and galloping on his horse. “Just a moment!” (Kasha) Kasha, who was the coachman, raised the speed of the carriage in a hurry but it wasn’t a speed that could catch up to Hifumi no matter how. In an instant they were separated. Hifumi vanished into the darkness in front. One of the heads of the three soldiers in front of the gate was severed. In the act of passing each other, it was cut and sent flying. While using the momentum of killing him, Hifumi turned around and once again hurried on his horse. Slashing his katana from atop of the horseback, he killed yet another person. Just one single soldier was left now. As the carriage arrived, the soldier was at last being successful in drawing his sword, the carriage arrived. “Alyssa, get off.” (Hifumi) Hifumi dismounted from the horse and pointed his katana into the direction of the soldier to keep him in check. Without shifting his attention he addressed Alyssa. Immediately following after the forceful healing with restorative medicines, she didn’t seem to have any problems with movement. “I am lending this to you.” (Hifumi) Coming close to Alyssa, Hifumi passed on his katana to her. “Huh? ...” (Alyssa) Though the soldier came slashing at them, he was easily forced back with a front kick causing him to be thrown down. “Kill this guy with this.” (Hifumi) “Th-that is ...” (Alyssa) Although Alyssa received the katana, she was hesitating upon being told to kill the soldier. Once more throwing himself upon them, the soldier approached. Having a short blade driven into the inner side of his sword arm’s wrist, the soldier dropped his sword. Hifumi grabbed the back of his neck and pulled him down. “From now on you will kill a lot of opponents. The person you just yesterday had a friendly chat with, might have to be killed today. First off, kill this guy. Kill the opponent that tried to kill you, in order to completely separate from this place.” (Hifumi) Without any hesitation, Hifumi spoke those words. Catching her breath, Alyssa set up the katana without losing any time. “That’s fine. Up until this morning he was your colleague, but now that he betrayed and tried to kill you he is an enemy. If you won’t kill him, he will kill you.” (Hifumi) Although those were clichéd words, they were effective on Alyssa who had experienced it by herself. Upon lifting her head, there was no trace of indecision left within Alyssa’s eyes. “I am borrowing this sword.” (Alyssa) Alyssa thrust the katana at the soldier who was still continuing to struggle. The sharpened point of the katana penetrated with a smooth, unhindered motion into the back of his head ending his life simply like that. “... I have done it.” (Alyssa) “You did well. Next we move to the national border.” (Hifumi) Hifumi gently took the katana from Alyssa’s hands and replaced it with the sword of the dead soldier. Turning his back on her, he went towards the horse. “Hifumi-san, I, did I do something good with this?” (Alyssa) “... There is no good or bad. I told you what you should do and you decided yourself to do so. That’s all there is to it.” (Hifumi) Wearing an expression that showed she didn’t quite understand, Alyssa went back to the carriage trudging with the sword in her hand. The first step went smoothly Only after killing a person from Vichy for the first time, I was going to decide the future depending on Alyssa’s reaction. Although there was a chance that she might bare his fangs at him, that in itself would be enjoyable as well. While laughing to himself, Hifumi returned atop the horse and they left the town behind by passing through the unmanned gate. On Orsongrande’s side and Vichy’s side, both somehow managed to allocate soldiers taking charge to a certain degree within a few days. On the Orsongrande’s border side, besides soldiers coming there was one more person, a knight. Currently, the corpse of the criminal who made his appearance here first and the corpse of Gothras, who was slain by Hifumi, were to be examined, as she was in the process of writing down the report. “After all Vichy hasn’t formed an alliance with Horant yet, I wonder if they are not simply being used? The number of personnel loitering on their side of the border is identical to ours, was it only to experiment on the magic tool? But why? Acting in such way would make them enemies of two countries at the same time ...”(Pajou) , Pajou thought, just as a scream reached her ears from a distance. It seemed like there was someone fighting on the other side of the border. “Good grief, there is no time to take a rest at all.” (Pajou) While cursing, Pajou quickly equipped her armor and sword and rushed out of her own room. The light of the dim torch only illuminated the necessary minimum of the location. Basically the border wasn’t passed at night. Rarely there were merchants and such who arrived at night due to ending up making a mistake in their planning. They pass the time by camping a little bit away before devoting themselves to passing through the border in the morning. Today it wasn’t such a idiotic merchant but an assailant appearing. “Listen! Annihilate the soldiers on the Vichy side! Do not leave one person alive!” (Hifumi) While riding the horse, Hifumi swung the fundou of the kusarigama ( “Plunge deeply up to the fortress with the carriage as it is! Immediately after disembarking, kill the group in the vicinity!” (Hifumi) “””Understood!””” Approaching the fortress, the two soldiers were setting up large shields side-by-side blocking the road. “Stop!” (Guard) Magnificently jumping with his horse over the two soldiers, Hifumi wrapped the chain around the necks of the two defenseless soldiers in one go from overhead and dragged them down. After about meters of pulling them along, they were discarded. At the time of dragging them down, both of them had died by having their necks broken already. The horses pulling the carriage quickly evaded the shields the soldiers dropped as they were hurrying on. The wheels of the main part of the carriage ran aground causing it to violently shake. “Kya!” (Origa) Origa having been thrown off balance was right away caught by Alyssa. “T-Thank you.” (Origa) While expressing her thanks, Origa noticed the quivering of Alyssa’s hand as she was touching her. “It’s alright. Master is here and were are quite strong, too, okay?” (Origa) Therefore it was fine, while gently smiling, Origa tightly held her magic staff as she was aiming for the right timing to jump off the carriage. Suddenly the velocity of the carriage dropped. “You are a hindrance!” (Kasha) Apparently Kasha dealt with the enemy in front. Hearing the voice, Origa immediately jumped off and although hesitating, Alyssa followed right after. Disembarking from the back of the carriage, the pair faced the enemies separated to the left and right. Having seen the moment arriving when the carriage plunged into the fortress, Hifumi left the horse after dismounting from it. He grabbed the head of a soldier, who was confronting Kasha, approaching him from the back and casually threw him at the fortress wall. With only that, the soldier died. Furthermore, he hit the soldier coming from his right side with the hilt of the katana causing him to become dizzy and then penetrated the blade through the eyes thus killing him. “Gi!” “Master ...” (Kasha) “Follow Alyssa.” (Hifumi) Ignoring Kasha, who wanted to say something, Hifumi increased the corpse count while approaching the border. “Orsongrande’s soldiers! Listen!” (Hifumi) In a very very loud voice. That voice of Hifumi, albeit yet quite a distance off the border, was heard by Pajou. “This voice ...” (Pajou) “I am an Orsongrande noble called by the name Hifumi! Some of you soldiers should already know of me! Our country’s Viscount Hagenti was arrested! Do you know the reason for that?!” (Hifumi) Confirming the situation on the other side of the border, Orsongrande’s soldiers had heard it properly. “Viscount Hagenti is a puppet of Vichy! Upon Princess Imeria’s decree I secretly infiltrated Vichy while risking my life. Viscount Kano was manipulated by Vichy. Again and again soldiers, who were manipulated by inhuman magic, showed up in our country and I was able to obtain evidence of their schemes! And furthermore Vichy tried to kill a young woman, who learnt of the secret behind the magic tool performance, too!” (Hifumi) While talking, Hifumi killed two more soldiers. Having displayed his abilities to some of the Orsongrande’s soldiers, there were some amongst them starting to believe that him having received the Princess’ secret decree wasn’t strange at all either. “Although it was dangerous, I succeeded in rescuing her from the crisis! But, in doing so my circumstances ended up being revealed! Though I somehow managed to defeat the pursuers, it is regrettable that I can’t pass here!” (Hifumi) As the soldiers turned their line of sight, there was a figure of a young woman desperately fighting while helping Origa and Kasha. “Soldiers of Orsongrande! Even though the national border is right ahead, there is no way to climb over the huge rock cliff! Don’t mind us, but at the very least lend us your assistance to rescue this young woman! For the sake of saving her, I want all of you to display your righteousness!” (Hifumi) As they were addressed by Hifumi, the soldiers looked at each others faces while wavering. ... What is he planning? ... As she would before long arrive at the fortress, Pajou was perplexed on the way. Then, why is Hifumi trying to have Orsongrande’s soldiers cross the border? Having arrived at the fortress myself, what would I decide to do in this situation? If you think calmly about it, it will be unwise for knights and soldiers to cross the border of another country and thus invade it. However, choosing to not save them in this situation, the matter of not helping women and the matter of “not helping one’s own country’s citizens,” these two matters will still remain as facts. Protecting the rules and thus disheartening the retainers or deciding to put the priority on saving lives, huh? ... Finally arriving at the fortress, Pajou was surprised to find out that the young woman Hifumi had specified was no other than Alyssa. Furthermore a great number of corpses could be instantly seen having fallen on the other side of the border. She recalled Hifumi’s speech he gave just now. 『Although my circumstances became known, I managed to defeat the pursuers.』 If that was true, it was a matter of “Protecting a fleeing criminal who, while heading in the direction of Orsongrande, killed Vichy’s soldiers en route.” Though I am not certain to what extent the other party is aware of matters, the significance to refrain from transgressing the border has already been lost. Since it has come to this, we have to retrieve them no matter what it takes. It has also become necessary to tailor a beautiful tale about this. Orsongrande is in the right. There is no other choice but vaguely denounce Vichy publicly, Pajou judged. “All hands, draw your swords and assist them!” (Pajou) Naturally holding a weapon too, Pajou started to run as vanguard. The other soldiers followed as well. Due to the fierce attack by the Orsongrande’s side with their overwhelming numbers, the number of Vichy soldiers decreased in a blink of an eye. After all Vichy soldiers had been killed, Hifumi, who crossed the border, expressively showed his thanks towards Pajou. “It was a very courageous behavior. I wish to express my gratitude.” (Hifumi) “No, please don’t worry about it. Leaving that aside, because I want to listen to the detailed report, come this way please.” (Pajou) To Pajou’s guidance, Hifumi’s group obediently followed. Of course Hifumi was unhurt, the slaves and Alyssa too, to the degree of settling with a few scratched which hadn’t to be minded. Entering a vast conference room in the barracks close to the fortress, the soldiers standing guard were told to not let anyone enter for a while. Pajou urged on Hifumi’s group to sit down. After confirming that Hifumi’s group had sat down, she sat down on a chair herself too while breathing a heavy sigh. “Somehow you seem to be quite worn out.” (Hifumi) “Who’s fault do you think that is? ... So, usually I would expect you to explain right away, but ...” (Pajou) Retrieving a document from his darkness storage, Hifumi casually tossed it to Pajou. After quickly looking through it, Pajou hung her head in shame and looked down from the corner of her eyes. “Though it was impossible to read some parts, it seems that the lot at the central government of Vichy have used a magic tool from Horant to strengthen their soldiers. If those two countries succeed in cooperating, they are geographically the same as Orsongrande?” (Hifumi) “In case this is real, you could say that ...” (Pajou) As Pajou was visibly squeezing out those words, Hifumi delivered the final blow. “So, the representative of the town Aroseru, who received this as well, was arrested. He is still alive. He was left within the carriage.” (Hifumi) “Isn’t that kidnapping!” (Pajou) As Pajou slammed on the desk and stood up, Hifumi said without changing his expression. “Did you have to expressively raise your voice so it could be heard by others? This was done rightly in order to completely save her from almost being killed at that place. With having this much evidence, the guy who can testify the validity of the document is here. What do you want to say before making a move? Vichy will reject everything like that.” (Hifumi) “This judgement will be made by the royalty and the high ranking nobles, not by those on site.” (Pajou) “No, not at all, you have decided on site just a little while ago. The situation has already started to develop. It’s too late now.” (Hifumi) Olga’s group, who were sitting lined up next to Hifumi, likewise were silent having their breath taken away after becoming aware of how their actions had developed into such serious affair. “... Anyway, please stay at the barracks today. I will submit a report to the royal capital.” (Pajou) “Ah, there was the option to use birds as means of communication. Well then, while you are contacting the capital, please arrange for us to meet Imeria. Let’s see, 『The man, who accomplished the secret decree while also ending up breaking the law in order to save a maiden, wishes to visit Her Highness in order to express his apology』.” (Hifumi) Pajou tried to possibly read his mind. He was floating a faint smile without change as he caught her gaze.

When the elves who remained in the forest returned with arms to the site where the demon was, the corpse of the demon, which should have been there, had vanished. “Oy, there’s nothing like a demon around here, is there?” Hearing the story that a demon appeared and moreover that it was defeated by merely two elves, the elves, who braced themselves and came along, glared at the two who previously met it. “No, no! It’s the truth! Right?” “Yeah, it was without a doubt a demon. We killed it with our magic. There’s no mistake in the location either. Look, there are still bloodstains remaining, right?” At the place, he pointed at, black remains, which can certainly be considered bloodstains, were scattered on the path which was evened roughly. If one looked closely, the bloodstains indistinctly extended towards the forest as if the corpse had been dragged along. “... It’s continuing over there.” “Let’s check it out. It will spell troubles if the demon is still alive and has escaped. Since there’s no doubt that it’s wounded seriously, we will finish it off with everyone launching their magic at it once we find it.” The eight elves who were at this place agreed to that suggestion. They advance while being cautious of the surroundings and covering for each other. With the remaining elves being specialised in magic, they had confidence in being able to resist even if the demon came. However, there’s actually none among them who has real experience in fighting. Cornering the demons, the elves locked them up in that place is a story from long before they had been born. “That is...!” When they advanced for around minutes, one of them pointed at the dim vicinity where the space between the forest’s trees became fairly narrow. There they saw the back of someone doing something while squatting and squirming. “No, the blood has...” The leading elf tried to tell them that it was different from the demon he had seen for himself, but three elves immediately invoked magic misunderstanding it as enemy approach. “Take this!” “Demon! Come out!”magic While throwing abusive language at it, they released wind blades, a lightning attack and a stone pellet spell. All of the spells hit something and burst with a fierce sound. “Alright!” One of them yells while clenching their fists. In the next moment they hear a voice different from their comrades. “What’s “alright”? Idiot.” No sooner than the voice finished, the head of one of the elves, who released the spells, fell down with a “plop.” The cut elf himself had his life ended while wearing a surprised expression wondering about his sight suddenly spinning around. “U-Uwaaah!” Surprised by the abrupt death of his comrade, the one who raised his voice into a scream is a young elf who released a spell just like the beheaded and fallen elf. A katana pierces the chest of the young man, who looks at the tumbling head, as if being sucked into it. “Ue...?” As the katana is pulled out with a short sliding sound, the young elf presses his hands on his gaping wide chest, however large amounts of blood ooze out between his fingers. Once the young man collapsed due to blood loss, the remaining six took distance in panic. “A-A human...?” The one who attacked wasn’t a demon but Hifumi. Wiping his katana with a paper, Hifumi stands up openly while being displeased. “On top of interrupting someone’s experiment, you even destroy the experiment’s body.” (Hifumi) What was held up by the katana was the corpse of the demon which had turned into a ragged dust cloth due to serving as shield against the magic attacks. “Experiment, you say?” Hifumi, who discovered a fresh demon corpse at the wayside, noticed that the trees in the surroundings were different from the demon’s area as they had the peculiarity of the elven forest and apparently decided to test whether there’s an influence by those trees on the blood of the demon whose ancestors are similar to the elves. Pulling the corpse along, he threw it down at a place dense with trees. Since the one he was working on while squatting hadn’t much blood remaining anymore, he tried to cut open the body’s front in order to make the change easier to understand. However, since the elves, who turned up in a group, suddenly fired spells at him, he ended up throwing the corpse as shield out of reflex. “Even though I went as far as operating on it at great troubles, this happened. The wind blades and stone pellet were still alright but the lightning attack burned it. Like this it ain’t usable anymore.” (Hifumi) Once the elves looked properly at the corpse, they saw that the skin had been cut open, the breastbones had been snapped off and the abdomen had also been cut open crosswise as the internal organs were smoldering and raising smoke due to being burnt by the lightning attack. “Uegeeeeeehh!” Someone vomited unable to endure it any longer and triggered two more to spurt out the contents of their stomachs. “Something like that...” “There had been three spells. Who’s the last one?” (Hifumi) “Judging by the direction of bloodthirst, it’s either you or you”, he points at them one after the other. The gazes of the remaining elves gathered on the man who released the lightning attack. “You, eh?” (Hifumi) “Please wait! I-It wasn’t me but someone else!” The man’s words weren’t able to stop Hifumi’s motion. Entrusting himself to his anger, the katana, which swooped down like lightning from a stance of being held above his head, cleaved open the lips and nose starting from the middle forehead, slid through the breastbones and tore open the abdomen in a single vertical stroke. “Aaah...” Although he has a bloody face and eagerly picks up the spilling intestines, Hifumi looks down on the man in front of him, who is looking with a face full of desperation as his guts are slipping out between his arm, with cold eyes. “The experiment has ended due to you elves. You wasted my time pointlessly.” (Hifumi) Once he cut apart the trachea and carotid artery by thrusting only the point of his katana into the throat of the man, Hifumi wiped the katana with a paper and threw that paper away. Even the remaining elves decided to abandon the forest at this moment. ☺☻☺ There are unexpectedly many people who want to meet with Origa, who is staying in the capital, as she is called the wife of the hero. Every day written invitations to evening parties and such arrived at the inn she is staying at from nobles and merchants. Although she has sent a reply to pretty much all of them, each and every one was refused by Origa. Just showing up at the evening parties carried out by the royal palace, she finished the greetings without dancing and left in the middle of those. From the standpoints of genuine nobles they were targets of contempt as noble, who had risen from commoner status, and his wife, who was formerly a slave, but with them being close to the queen and having this many military achievements, there existed a definite number of people who highly evaluated her stance as wife even amongst the nobles, since she stuck to her reason for refusing which was 「I want to refrain from participating until my husband returns safely」. “Honestly said, it’s just because it will be annoying.” (Origa) “... You have described it quite frankly.” (Imeraria) Sitting opposite of Imeraria, Origa, who was tilting her cup with tea in it, wore a light blue dress which carried plenty of elegance for a noble of the kingdom if going by appearance. It even happened twice, thrice that she had been stopped by the surroundings as they greeted her wondering whether she was the daughter of some noble household or the heir of some unknown noble. “I have decided to use my time for the sake of my husband. Something like forming deep connections with nobles all around isn’t what my husband wishes for. Besides, it looks like there are also many unpleasant fellows who look at me with filthy eyes.” (Origa) “Considering all that, you were apparently able to attend the evening parties at the royal castle.” (Imeraria) “Ah, there are people to whom my husband was indebted. As my husband can’t do it himself currently, it is the task of his wife to carry out his social obligations instead.” (Origa) Putting down the cup, Origa smiled sweetly. “I’m very thankful to you, Your Majesty, the Queen. I was able to meet Hifumi-sama thanks to Your Majesty. I gained the power to exact my revenge after breaking out from a helpless situation.” (Origa) “Oh? The other party, who deceived you, Origa-san, has already...” (Imeraria) “Yes, I killed him.” (Origa) The maid, who prepared a second serving of tea shivered with a start due to the word “killed”, but as she continued her task in a manner as if she hadn’t heard anything, Imeraria decided to console her afterwards as she caught on the maid’s startling at the edge of her view. “However, the people who ordered that are still alive.” (Origa) “... If the one your words are pointing at is Viscount Hagenti, he disappeared to the public execution ground.” (Imeraria) Origa opened her eyes widely due to Imeraria’s remark. “Did you give the order for that, Your Majesty?” (Origa) “Yes, of course.” (Imeraria) , Origa was surprised within her mind. Since the time Origa acted as adventurer in the capital, the evaluation towards Imeraria had the image of her being naive as statesman, if one traduced her, and gentle, if one said it elegantly. She familiarly gets in touch with commoners and carries out charity for the poor. She might be splendid for a person who possesses wealth, but it’s inevitable for her to be evaluated as somewhat “dreamy” as royalty “It’s only natural to put priority on the country’s interests in my decisions once I turned into a queen being responsible for this country while losing my status as princess who simply waited to be married off somewhere without holding any responsibilities whatsoever... I still feel somewhat out of place, however I believe that I’m aware of being in a position I ought to accomplish.” (Imeraria) “That’s something wonderful.” (Origa) Origa, who hid her surprised expression with a smile, praised her while putting together her hands in front of her chest and placing her thin fingers onto each other. “However, it’s not only a single man at the rank of Viscount who is the other party for the revenge mentioned by me.” (Origa) The figure of Origa, who restrained her mouth with a “Fufu”, seems to be lovely even seen from they eyes of Imeraria who is a woman, too. She understands the young noble men who want to call out to her as they don’t know her true nature. “It’s Vichy itself. Even the matter of them taking up arms against Hifumi-sama is inexcusable, but it’s obvious that it’s Vichy who influenced the corrupt nobles of Orsongrande from behind the scenes. My final objective is for everyone from Vichy’s Central Committee to be turned into corpses.” (Origa) From completely talking like a dreaming maiden, Origa changes her words into a murky, dark desire for revenge. “Then it’s your order for the army led by Alyssa-san to be currently at the border to Vichy, Origa-san?” (Imeraria) In contrast to Origa, Imeraria doesn’t feel like smiling. Having a dubious look turned at her, Origa smiled once again. “That was ordered by my husband. Given that the monsters became powerful, he apparently told them to carry out a large-scale extermination operation to eradicate them once the preparations have finished.” (Origa) “Then revenge towards Vichy means...” (Imeraria) “You have heard from my husband. As the country is unexpectedly tenacious it’s difficult to cause its downfall with a simple attack from outside.” (Origa) Even Imeraria, who has studied history, nodded while saying “Indeed” towards that statement. “The reasons for a country to perish is the great number of internal problems. The country will be attacked and overthrown or absorbed at the point it lost its unity due to exhaustion from things like antagonism and epidemics.” (Origa) In fact Orsongrande has a history of having annexed several small countries in its past as well. Several of those left behind became city-states forming Vichy, however Imeraria recalled that there were some people who used the occasion of financial collapse due to famines and statesmen mismanaging according to the kingdom’s records. “But, the current Vichy is heading towards a friendly exchange with Fokalore. I believe they are on the whole doing that to maintain their stability as group of city-states, however...” (Imeraria) “Ah, only one place is continuing to be against it as they consider the entire structure as faulty since it’s a nation. That’s a commendable aspect as well.” (Origa) “... What are you planning to do?” (Imeraria) Imeraria, who recalled having some knowledge about the nation which is opposing according to Origa, asks while having a bitter smile. “I simply sent a letter. Of course I also got the permission to do so from my husband while receiving advice from him. Let’s have the privilege of watching as spectators while continuing our research on sealing magic?” (Origa) “I will return to the research then”, in the end Imeraria wasn’t able to ask about the contents of the letter due to Origa standing up.

The gossip, that Hifumi is apparently looking for a marriage partner, spread within Orsongrande and was even circulated in Horant and Vichy, despite Alyssa’s and the civil official slave’s eager efforts. The rumours, recounted by soldiers moving within the country and merchants going around the streets, has even reached Imeraria’s ears before long. “... Someone will marry that Hifumi-sama?” (Imeraria) “It’s a mere rumour, but since he has excellent civil officials at his side, I can’t deny the possibility of them proposing it for the sake of preserving the Earl Tohno household.” (Adol) Although she agreed with Adol’s remark, she isn’t able to imagine some woman standing next to Hifumi and even less exchanging the vows of marriage with him. Looking at Imeraria, who ended up silent while knitting her brows, Adol displayed a state of panic. “N-No way, Your Excellency the Queen, about Earl Tohno...” (Adol) “Huh?” (Imeraria) Only after she started talking about it, the image of herself standing next to Hifumi appeared in front of her eyes. Imeraria shook here head vigorously in denial. “What are you saying? As queen I believe to know the requirements of the person I choose. Also, isn’t Hifumi-sama my enemy?” (Imeraria) Adol can’t conceal his concerns in regards to Imeraria, who is blushing albeit denying it. “R-Rather than such talk, I think we are to speak about the national politics now.” (Imeraria) “Yes. However, regarding the policies introduced by the territory of that Earl Tohno, if you consider the scale of the capital and its surrounding areas for adopting the tax system, it will become something very troublesome. We probably should start with the staff getting used to it by experimentally introducing it in a distant province. However...” (Adol) Flipping through the documents nearby, he hands over a piece of paper, that was inserted in-between, to Imeraria. “This is a copy of the “family register” which had been transcribed from the territory of Fokalore.” (Adol) “It’s amazing. They have investigated as far as birthplace*, their home-town*, relatives, who don’t live with them, the family members and their address?” (Imeraria) “As you can see by the attached materials, they have investigated things like the work details and recorded them.” (Adol) While staring intently at the documents, she examines the record contents of one, she likely selected at random, as example. “The reformation of the tax system also profits from this sort of accumulated information about the residents. That’s how it is. On grounds of these information, they have apparently been managing things such as marriages, births and deaths.” (Adol) “Currently Fokalore has become the area with a more accurate budget compilation and population transition than anywhere else in the world. These data of the residents is even useful for stuff like the tracking and prevention of crimes and the prevention of slums being created by mediating work and confirming the enrolment,” Adol continues. Listening to his explanation this far, Imeraria dropped her shoulders while putting back the documents. “In a political meaning, you are saying that Hifumi-sama has gained plenty of heroic achievements. If only father and me didn’t make a mistake in the way of meeting with him, it might have been possible to make adequate use of Hifumi-sama’s power for the sake of the country.” (Imeraria) Loneliness overshadows the expression of Imeraria. Certainly, since our first meeting, there were only problems. In my imagination I yearned for a maiden-like bright love by meeting with a powerful, great brave-sama*, who is over overflowing with justice I don’t want to think I made a mistake, but didn’t I end up becoming a queen by some mistake? Isn’t this a dream? “Overcoming the difficulties, Your Majesty has splendidly protected Orsongrande. There have been various dangers and many precious things were lost as well, however as result the country continues to exists, the realm has expanded and even now its growth is continuing.” (Adol) Adol’s words are no lie. Encouraging her by using facts, made Imeraria happy. “Thank you. Well, then let’s pull ourselves together and proceed with the talks. Let’s decide on a place, where we will introduce the family register as trial for making a draft.” (Imeraria) Someday there will even come a day, where I can laugh at it while saying 「It was really difficult at that time」 ☺☻☺ Being riddled with wounds all over, Balzephon sank in a pool of blood. At the time he barely regained his consciousness, he wondered whether his body, which was hurting everywhere, was in pieces, however his body, which is reflected in his faint, returned field of vision, is somehow in perfect, good health. “Survived... huh?” (Balzephon) The blood, spread in the surroundings, is a mix of the monster’s and Balzephon’s. As the bleeding of the monster, which has died with its huge frame having toppled sideways, has already stopped, Balzephon tried to crawl out of the sticky puddle, but his body isn’t moving properly. “That woman... that weapon was the same thing called shuriken or something, which Vaiya gave the Royal Knight Order.” (Balzephon) Somehow he shifts his neck. Once he surveys his surroundings, he saw a thin metal stuck in the roots of a tree. “Tsk... in the end she is someone affiliated with that man called Hifumi or something, huh? Don’t haunt me wherever I go.” (Balzephon) Fighting the deliriousness, he is remembering up to the point of being smashed by the swung forepaw and having somehow stabbed his sword in the throat of the monster. Using up all his strength before being crushed underfoot the monster, he probably just managed to survive. The sword in front of him, being stuck in the monster as is, has been stained red by being drenched in blood. “... Eh?” (Balzephon) In the chest of the fallen monster he discovered an unnatural bulge right next to the place the sword was stuck. Once he casually touched it with his hand, he knew that something hard was buried underneath the fur. As he was checking it by feeling around, he also found traces of stitched together sewing. Mustering his remaining strength, he draws the sword, cuts the seams and thrusts his hand into the opened hole. The dragged-out item was clearly man-made. Tubes are growing out of it and continue into the body’s interior. It appears to be parasitic. “It’s that woman’s doing, eh? Probably...” (Balzephon) He believed it was a tiger possessing a large build he hadn’t seen until now, but once he looked a bit closer, he found that it was similar to a monster with a bit shorter fangs. Although it was a tiger he encountered during the training of the knight order, it was a lot smaller and weaker at that time. If the same tiger was under the effect of enhancement with the magic tool then, would it have been a ferocious monster possessing this large build? And what would happen if it was used on humans as well? “... As it is, even if I collapse here, I will simply die, huh?” (Balzephon) Turning over so that he faces upwards, he raises his eyes towards the dull and cloudy sky. Rather than dying here, shouldn’t I achieve my revenge even if I have to become a monster? “I lost my knighthood and in the end I might even cease to be a human. That isn’t even a funny story.” (Balzephon) Encouraging himself with his monologue, Balzephon, sitting up his body by straining himself with the last ounce of energy he possessed, began to carefully extract each pipe connected to the monster. ☺☻☺ Origa, who left behind the forest where they abandoned Balzephon, came in contact with the rumour related to Hifumi’s marriage in a small town, where they stopped for resupplying. “Would you tell me more details about this story?” (Origa) The eyes of Origa, who passed a silver coin in a polite tone, are filled with strength and have become far too bloodshot. The green pupils, looking from underneath the hood, which she wore low over her eyes, can be seen as somehow shining in a dim light. The shop’s old man, having the silver coin pressed into his palm with a strength that its shape embedded itself there, begged with nothing but teary eyes, “P-Please stop. I also only heard it from a peddler at the time of stocking up.” “Where did that peddler go then?” (Origa) He had a feeling that the peddler, who told him about it, would go through a bitter experience, but the old man easily spit out the regularly used inn of the peddler. “I thank you for the information.” (Origa) , the old man was grieving after being released. Origa rushed to the inn at a quick pace. From the story, spit out by the peddler after passing some money, Origa became aware of the facts that Hifumi had returned to Fokalore and started the territorial administration in full scale. Somehow or other it’s a talk about whether he won’t marry someone in order to continue the territory on that occasion, but it seems to be spreading as rumour from nowhere else but Fokalore. “Hifumi-sama is...” (Origa) She tells the soldiers, who are following her, to check the remaining amount of magic tools. As a result of continuing to implant them into powerful prime fields* all throughout the area from Horant to Orsongrande with a zealous effort, Origa’s group managed to quickly lower the amount of over magic tools, they had at the beginning, down to remaining. “... Even during our return to Fokalore, this remaining number can be easily dealt with...” (Origa) Giving a prediction, which has a feeling of being strongly influenced by her desire, Origa decided to head towards Fokalore after staying one night in the inn she had rushed into. The soldiers were also happy that they would be able to return at long last. “It will be a forced march until Fokalore. As we will advance close to the highway putting the core of our attention on our speed, take care to sleep restfully tonight.” (Origa) The peddler, aware of Origa’s group staying in the same inn, paid the inn’s fee in a hurry and left in order to escape towards his next destination. The Fokalore special unit, Origa’s group, pays no heed to such matters, rises early next morning and leaves the city behind alongside the rising sun. While passing through several cities, they select monsters, which have a high fighting strength as their bases are bears and alligators, restrain them by weakening them with magic and weapons, embed the magic tool and release them. They perform this work many times over. After all the magic tools have been used up, they run along the highway at full speed using a platform wagon. “Very soon I will meet with Hifumi...” (Origa) In Origa’s mind somewhat beautified memories of Hifumi were swirling about. While the concealment caused some troubles, she is conceited about properly finishing her assigned mission. She also expects to be praised most likely. However, beyond that, at the thought of appealing for more, she has no confidence that she will be able to voice it out. For a moment she considers to be rejected, even so it’s also a fact that Origa is the woman closest to Hifumi. She doesn’t plan to yield this spot to anyone else.magic “Hifumi-sama, Origa will very soon return to your side. I continued to act separately from you for a long, long time. Therefore...” (Origa) The words scattered into the wind were packed with desires leading somewhere beyond. Although she is holding an exaggerated title called Military Director, Alyssa has been generally active at the actual site while leaving the majority of paperwork to Miyukare. Her figure of training the soldiers and rewarding them for actively taking part while performing some tasks, without becoming a soldier herself, was received well even by the the fief’s population noticing that. While shaking her red, short hair lightly, the small-built Alyssa is walking on the shopping street, eating a fruit similar to an apple and tasting the slightly sweet, freshly baked bread from a bakery. She produces a gentle and heart-warming mood wherever she goes. While chewing on the fruit she arrived at last at the entrance of the city. It’s a rule for those entering and leaving the city to be inspected by soldiers. Although it is an established custom to exempt nobles and wealthy merchants from another fief, Fokalore doesn’t permit that at all. It is necessary to line up in order upon arrival without social status playing any role. It has been thoroughly followed according to the rules of the manual, but if you compare it with other cities, the soldiers’ treatment of remarkable commoners is soft. It was very popular with merchants, that are coming and going. The soldier, spotting Alyssa’s figure, salutes delightfully. “Director, thanks for your work!” “Thank you. What’s your impression?” (Alyssa) “Today the number of people trying to enter the city is small. It seems like the immigration drive is gradually calming down as well.” Wanting to confirm the names and social positions of those having entered the city this time, Alyssa takes the documents, which recorded their objectives, and flipped through the pages. There are many soldiers, who can’t write characters, but the literacy rate of Fokalore’s soldiers is %. In the first place, they won’t be allowed to enter the army unless they are able to read and write characters. This was also something decided by Hifumi. Honestly, at the time she arrived at Fokalore, Alyssa was in a state of being able to read but her writing was quite disastrous. But thanks to Miyukare teaching her with constant attendance, she reached the point of being able to write quite the beautiful characters. Finishing the check smoothly and signing it to show that, Alyssa returned the documents. “If there is a problem, report it at once to the Lord’s mansion...” (Alyssa) Past the soldier, opposite her, Alyssa saw something approaching at an abnormal speed on the highway stretching into the far distance. “Something’s coming! Since it might be a monster, everyone get ready for battle! Someone go calling Hifumi-san!” (Alyssa) “Ha!” The soldier, who dashed away after receiving the order, conveyed the instructions to everyone at the gate and they lined up facing towards the highway. A single, young soldier hurried towards the Lord’s mansion. Alyssa, standing in front of those soldiers, draws her short sword. “... Eh? That’s a platform wagon, right?” (Alyssa) Alyssa, who has the best eyesight in this place, noticed the something, approaching while raising a cloud of dust, to be a well-known vehicle. , sheathing her short sword, she strained her eyes and saw light blue hair fluttering in the wind, of which she had some recollection. Tension travelled through Alyssa’s back with a shiver. Turning around in a hurry, she yells at the soldiers at this place, “Contact Hifumi-san right away to wait in the Lord’s mansion for further messages! If they encounter each other in this place, it will turn into a disaster!” (Alyssa) Due to Alyssa’s face’s colour changing, the soldiers began to run with a speed never seen before. Meanwhile the platform wagon ridden by Origa arrived in front of the gate and stopped with a loud sound. “Long time no see, Alyssa.” (Origa) “Welcome home, Origa-san.” (Alyssa) “Well then, I want you to let me through now.” (Origa) Alyssa jumped and clung to the waist of Origa, who got off the platform wagon and tried to go ahead at a quick pace. “W-Wait a moment!” (Alyssa) “Get away. From now on I will have a match* betting my life.” (Origa) “Before you have that match, I think there’s something you have to do!” (Alyssa) Origa, who was dragging along Alyssa as she walked, stopped her feet at those words. “Something to do? Certainly you don’t want to tell me to have a match competing over Hifumi-sama, do you?” (Origa) Alyssa doesn’t falter even as she is glared at by Origa, who is grasping the closed iron-ribbed fan tightly. The truly angry Origa is known for letting violence, instead of words, speak. “No, no, it’s something else! Before you go to Hifumi-san’s place, isn’t it necessary to prepare for the sake of your battle? The current Origa has her hair unkempt and ruffled and her face covered in dust. Even your clothes...” (Alyssa) Origa, looking down on her robe covered in dirt, vigorously apologized noticing her own mistake. “E-Excuse me! Thank you for telling me!” (Origa) “It’s fine. I’m a woman as well. It’s not like I don’t understand Origa-san’s feelings either.” (Alyssa) , Alyssa clenched her fist imposingly within her mind. “If I successfully become Hifumi-sama’s bride, I will recommend your case to Hifumi as well. Well then, before appearing in front of Hifumi, I will go back to my room.” (Origa) “Yea. Don’t be in a hurry and take it easy. Hifumi-san should be in his own office.” (Alyssa) “Many thanks”, Origa went away in good humour. The soldiers, who returned together with Origa and were left behind afterwards, are sitting down in some place right after entering into the city feeling worn-out. “U~~mm... Anyway, good work. Since you will have holidays for a while, rest up slowly, okay?” (Alyssa) “T-Thank you very much.” The soldiers, who felt like having been rescued from something, shed tears and line up words of gratitude towards Alyssa. Maintaining the public order is difficult

From time to time a person’s actions are incapable of being in line with the aspirations and imaginations of another person. What should or should not happen in the end goes no further than being disconnected from someone’s wishes. It’s the same with many things. Imeraria’s order (or wish) also ended up being futile and in vain. “It became somewhat noisy. Did something happen, Sabnak-san?” (Imeraria) “Uuh, Origa-san...” (Sabnak) Sabnak served as host of Viine and the others instead of Vaiya who was busy with the preparations for the planned arrival of the reinforcement’s main forces from behind. On the way leading them to the tents for visitors, which were prepared from the spares, they ended up suddenly coming across Origa who carried baggage she bought in Münster. Viine’s group, who doesn’t know about Origa, turns their looks towards Sabnak in search of an explanation as no one understands the beautiful girl who appeared in front of their eyes. However, Sabnak isn’t in a situation where he can respond to that. “U-Umm...” “Did you decide on some strategy? And, the people over there are... well, beastmen and an elf? It’s the first time I’m seeing either, but what’s wrong?” (Origa) Sabnak had not come up with even a bit of explanation in the case that Origa got in touch with the beastmen. Since he had wanted to ponder on it slowly later on, he had yet to determine if he will try to bounce opinions off of Imeraria to obtain a fine-tuned integrated whole Being abandoned by Sabnak who became pale while dripping sweat, Viine’s group bowed. “Nice to meet you. I’m the rabbit beastman Viine. I came from the slums of Swordland on the other side of the wastelands.” “Oh, how very polite. I’m the wife of Fokalore’s feudal lord Earl Tohno, Origa.” “Ah, you are master’s madam! Wanting to go to master’s place, I came to this place!” (Viine) Watching Origa and Viine staring at each other, Sabnak looked up to the distant sky while thinking The person himself didn’t realize that his own right foot had started escaping by one step. “I see, you were bought by my husband in the wastelands?” (Origa) “Yes, I was immediately released after that, in addition to that I received education and an environment where I could live safely... wanting to return this favour somehow, I thought that I should meet with master.” (Viine) Inside a guest tent a conversation began in a harmonious atmosphere by the guests receiving black tea personally served by Origa, and Caim’s special baked sweets. The males of the beastmen admire Hifumi’s wife, Origa, as a beauty. Puuse and Viine talk about the events up till now. Sabnak pondered whether he should go inform Imeraria, but decided to confirm the outcome of this conversation first. (This is another battlefield, I guess? Though it’s also a strange matter to interfere with the love affairs of others. Ah, if Shibyura was here, I could have consulted with her. I want to go home soon.) He takes a sip of black tea while feeling like crying. Just as said by Origa, who discovered the fine tea leaves in Münster, it has a refreshing sweetness. “S-So, I accompanied Viine-san to make it possible for her to meet with Hifumi-san. There’s something I want to talk about as well.” “I believe that I want to serve at master’s side, if possible. I also reached the point of being able to use magic after keeping at it. I will take care of him and even use this body as a shield in an emergency.” (Viine) Origa, who emptied the cup slowly in order to make sure of the black tea’s flavour, watched Viine pleading desperately and smiled sweetly. “If you are saying that you will be able to serve as maid of my husband, of Hifumi-sama, I will welcome that. However, there’s one thing you should know. And that’s a condition I want you to honour.” (Origa) “What you should know is what Hifumi-sama is aiming for. ... You, do you have the resolve to kill someone else for Hifumi-sama?” (Origa) Whispering that while still smiling, it’s said in a light tune completely as if asking someone about their hobby while bearing a weight similar to a final trial. “Kil-...” (Puuse) That mood. The mood of not hesitating even a little about stealing life, lightly and easily as if fluttering in the wind. Puuse, who sensed in Origa once more what she had felt in Hifumi, became speechless. However, Viine’s resolve is firm. “There’s no problem. I decided to practise for that reason.” (Viine) Feeling that the pressure from Origa has calmed down somewhat, even the male group, who was tense, dropped their shoulders. “Umm, What’s this one other condition?” (Viine) “That’s simple. Viine-san, you just said that you will take care of Hifumi-sama by even sacrificing your body, didn’t you?” (Origa) “Yes, of course.” (Viine) “That’s my duty. Please do so once my life has been extinguished for the sake of Hifumi-sama, if you are going to do it.” (Origa) With Origa showing any signs of listening to a reply, she faced Sabnak once she finished declaring that. “Sabnak-san.” (Origa) “Y-Yes!” (Sabnak) “So, can I have you tell me the reason why this encampment has become this noisy?” (Origa) “Uuh... I got it...” (Sabnak) After that, the beastmen, who finished meeting with Alyssa as well, were taken charge of by a person from Fokalore and not from Imeraria’s side. ☺☻☺ faster than your enemy does”, Hifumi explains. The one who listens attentively is a magic researcher of Horant, a young man called Gaap. Having been summoned to the room of Horant’s Prime Minister Kuzemu, he listens to the conversation in the prime ministers office alongside assistants he brought along. “How and where will the opponent enter? Did they get close? What equipment are they using? You probably understand that it’s advantageous even if you only know those things in advance.” (Hifumi) “Yes. However, there are sentries and patrols for that reason. They are guarding while checking the vicinity with a magic light tool.” (Gaap) “Then that means it will be over once they are done in. Just like the current situation.” (Hifumi) “That is... something called individual ability. There won’t be any problem if the sentries are stronger or if the assailant is a lot weaker.” (Gaap) “You idiot.” (Hifumi) Due to the voice of Hifumi, who interrupted Gaap’s words, even Kuzemu, who is working at a separate desk, trembled. “You have to consider it from much higher level than individual strength. Basically think of it as “something even an idiot can do” in case of the masses.” (Hifumi) “For example”, he pulls out a suitable parchment from Kuzemu’s desk and flips it over. Drawing two circles, he flicked it with a finger. “There were magic tools where one is broken if its counterpart is destroyed, right? Making it more fragile and preparing two of them, You install one of them at the front of the body of the guy on duty. By doing that, even if the wearer got defeated by something before sending a signal, those inside the building would be informed of the abnormality by the counterpart breaking.” (Hifumi) Drawing a diagonal line through one of the circles, he added an X-mark to the other one. “It’s the same with physical defence. If it’s the walls of this castle, I can climb them barehanded.” (Hifumi) “Normally that’s impossible.” (Gaap) “But, aren’t you able to accomplish that easily if magic is used?” (Hifumi) “Nevertheless, if it’s disrupted, a loud sound will...” (Gaap) “It’s something else. Is there anyone amongst you who can use earth magic?” (Hifumi) One of the assistants raises their hand due to Hifumi’s question. Facing that man, Hifumi made a gap of around cm with his hands and showed him. “Then, how long will it take for a soldier to create a hand-sized stone of this size?” (Hifumi) “I-If it’s one per soldier, as much as seconds.” “In that case, at least the soldiers of this place will be able to have them on hand if they have several minutes of time, right?” (Hifumi) Due to the words he finished saying, the assistants whisper amongst themselves. “However, to hold one of that level, for me that’s very...” “Who told you guys to go up there yourselves? It will be fine if that’s done by the soldiers, won’t it?” (Hifumi) “Ah”, due to Gaap having such expression, Hifumi was seriously troubled. “Do you really don’t think about such things as application or amplification of utility?” (Hifumi) From then on Hifumi extends his explanation to things like magic application for long distance communication with wind magic and excavation with water currents, on top of that physical communication methods inside a building which used speaking tubes and the general concept of sensors. Although it was sudden, Gaap and his assistants asked many questions while trying to comprehend the very interesting theories and techniques. They stared with high concentration at the scribbles drawn with by Hifumi. “Umm... I know it’s kind of late for that, but why is it acceptable for you to teach us these things?” (Gaap) At the moment the lecture, which had continued until late at night, reached a point where they could take a pause, Gaap asked that timidly. “Ah, so, in a few days, Orsongrande’s army will probably come here. If aren’t prepared, it will be one-sided, I guess. Then it won’t very interesting.” (Hifumi) Just like a rust-eaten machine, Gaap turned around and Kuzemu nodded as if having given up. And then, a few hours later, a messenger letting them know about the situation at the border arrives. Adolameruk rushes into all-night defence preparations. While many people were driven into preparing under Gaap’s instructions, Hifumi vanished before they realized. “Nelgal-sama, I will make use of you as a shield in the operation this time.” (Imeraria) Imeraria, Nelgal, Sabnak, Biron, Vaiya, Alyssa, Origa and the beastmen came together at the war council’s location. Origa and of course the beastmen as well weren’t originally scheduled to participate, but since Origa declared 「I will come along, too」 and seeing that she is Alyssa’s superior, the reason for not having the rest join vanished. It was beyond their power to tell anyone to take their leave as Origa brought them along. Due to them becoming irregular council members, it turned into a wait-and-see situation while everyone greeted and mingled with each other for a while, however due to the declaration of Imeraria who suddenly got down to business everyone was surprised. “... I’d like to be told about Your Majesty’s intention in detail.” (Nelgal) Stopping a guard, who stood in the back trying to file a protest, Nelgal asks Imeraria. “On the occasion of the current invasion of Horant, we will advance the troops towards the capital city Adolameruk in one go. We will have them take only a minimum amount of breaks and on top of that take the largest war potential we can currently move.” (Imeraria) “Won’t it turn into serious damage for your and my country in that case? If I enter Horant, it will possible to use me as a restraint against the soldiers. Won’t it be possible to solve the situation with only that much?” (Nelgal) Sabnak and the others expressed their thoughts of approval by nodding towards Nelgal’s opinion. However, Origa stays silent and Alyssa follows her in that as well. “And what will we do if you went missing on the way towards the capital, Nelgal-sama?” (Imeraria)magic “I’m not well-informed about the person who is steering the current Horant, but is your return beneficial for that person, Nelgal-sama? Even if you returned to the royal castle for argument’s sake, he will be able to seize the power just like they have now by just acting as if you haven’t returned yet and spreading “he has gone missing” before many people become aware of your arrival.” (Imeraria) Listening to Imeraria’s argument’s Nelgal muttered “I give up.” “It’s just as said by Her Majesty. While it’s disgraceful, the current man in power within the military of my country... is very likely Prime Minister Kuzemu. I don’t know whether there are spies who were slipped in by him.” (Nelgal) “Therefore this is also a method to widely spread the news to the masses that you returned before reaching the capital, Nelgal-sama. Being informed boldly and flashily about your return is also a means to hinder assassins who dislike public attention. That’s also the reason for taking many defensive forces along.” (Imeraria) “A large army for standing out and not as war potential... you say? Though that’s what you are saying, it can be considered as daring strategy that doesn’t suit its appearance.” “... It’s just a young girl being desperate to recover her lost points.” (Imeraria) Imeraria’s murmuring wasn’t even heard by anyone, but there was no one who would react to that either. “However it’s also an extremely dangerous plan, too.” (Biron) Biron opened his mouth. “The enemy side... although they would be the ones doing it, we have to also consider the possibility of them coming to crush us with force while deliberately ignoring Nelgal-sama being on our side.” (Biron) “Besides, is it necessary to hurry this much?” Agreeing with Biron, Sabnak proposed a conservative theory, but Imeraria doesn’t nod her head stubbornly. “It’s indispensable to make haste. For one the person, who is pulling the strings in Horant, will be allowed some margin accordingly if we drag it out. And then there are Hifumi-sama’s movements.” (Imeraria) She sends a fleeting glance at Origa, however she shows a smile without reacting in any way whatsoever. Although it’s no more than that, there are parts which worry Imeraria in reverse though. “The probability for that gentleman to be in Horant is very high. If that man makes a move, the sacrifices, which usually would finish with one, will end up turning into or 0.” “... However, aren’t those victims on our Horant’s side?” (Nelgal) “It’s not something Your Majesty has to mind”, Nelgal says uneasily. “I have to disappoint you though.” (Imeraria) Imeraria shook her head towards Nelgal’s anxiety. “I’m unable to regard it this optimistically.” (Imeraria) “Such foolishness”, Nelgal searched for approval in the surroundings, but Sabnak, Vaiya, Biron and no one else denies the “possibility of victims appearing on Orsongrande’s side due to Hifumi.” “I-Isn’t Origa-sama, who is Earl Tohno’s wife, here as well?” (Nelgal) “Oh my, thank you for worrying about me.” (Origa) Being addressed by Nelgal, Origa replied with a smile. “However, I’m afraid to tell you that from the beginning of my husband’s generosity and support I haven’t accepted anything except being a target for elimination as apparently expected. I believe my husband harbours the same thoughts as well. In that aspect Her Majesty’s thinking is splendid. It’s a method that is beneficial towards both, offence and defence. And she will be able to lead the files and ranks heroically by herself as well, right?” (Origa) “Eeh?” “Of course. A person who relaxes in a safe place by herself while exposing Nelgal-sama’s life to danger, shouldn’t be able to become an opponent as desired by Hifumi-sama either.” (Imeraria) Dissenting opinions appeared one after the other, but Imeraria shut up her opponents. “How about it, Nelgal-sama?” (Imeraria) “... It can’t be helped that I’m against it. The current me is nothing, but in the current matter I shall give you my highest gratitude once things settled down.” (Nelgal) Due to Nelgal bowing respectfully after standing up, Imeraria nodded generously. Sabnak, who regarded this as correct behaviour of a ruler, naturally bows after standing up as well. “And, Origa-san and Alyssa-san, I’d like to ask you for the cooperation of Fokalore’s soldiers.” (Imeraria) “You are jesting. Haven’t many of the royal army’s forces been gathered here? What kind of role do you plan to assign to us who are no more than a small army force?” (Origa) Imeraria returns a smile, without retreating even a bit, towards Origa who looks at her coldly and says that while laughing scornfully. “It’s no joke. This is also something I was taught by Hifumi-sama. Origa-san and Alyss-san, you, who understand Hifumi-sama well, and the soldiers of Fokalore who are able to deal with situation after being coached by Hifumi-sama as soldiers. It’s not about numbers. I want to borrow your knowledge. The things you know. How important that is, I was taught “I-Is that something to oppose Hifumi-san?” (Puuse) When Puuse asked with a trembling voice, Imeraria clearly denied that with a 「No」. “This is the “homework” I risked my life to obtain. Even if cut down the lives of other, I have to prove it. That’s my answer.” (Imeraria) “I will go as well!” (Viine) Once Viine declares that after standing up, Gengu and Malfas agree with her, too. Due to those words, Imeraria looks at Origa without answering. That’s because she has entrusted the decisions about them to Fokalore. “If it’s about this, I will have all of you beastmen promise to help Her Majesty to the best of your abilities. You are amateurs at war, but I’d like you to show me how much you are able to do nearby.” (Origa) “However, as sovereign, I will conversely teach you that you can not end a war just by killing.” (Imeraria) In the middle of the tingling mood, only Alyssa said “Buu buu” while pouting. “I’m the one in charge of the forces though.” (Alyssa) After deciding that the departure would be the next day, the battle, which will be the first directly led by a queen in Orsongrande’s history, was triggered by obstinacy of the queen herself.

As they are steadily getting closer to Münster’s gate, before Stiffels’ eyes the large front gate is left open allowing anyone to see quite well into the city. And in there are no people at all, not outside the gate, not inside and not even on the streets of the city. The first to realize this was Stiffels who was at the head of the troops. Following after him, the knights noticed the abnormality of the city as well. “C-Captain!” (Knight) “What will we do now!?” (Knight) They are pressed with intense force by the soldiers from Horant from the back. As it is a serious looking mass urging closer with their weapons in their hands, Stiffels appeared to be even more frightened. Stiffels takes the situation into consideration. It is a bad move to step into the city as it is now. If the city falls into ruin, it will become difficult to disprove it being my blunder. Even if we turned away from here, it wouldn’t be possible to disregard the damages. If it’s like that... “All soldiers, as soon as we finally reach the city, we will divide to the left and right and pincer attack the enemy, just as planned! During the pincer operation we will use the gate to confine the enemy!” (Stiffels) “U-Understood!” (Soldiers) While he is explaining, the city gate draws nearer. Commanding the soldiers, the knights following their duty, split up left and right accompanied by the soldiers. A few of Horant’s soldiers are lured by that and follow them, but the great majority advances directly towards Münster. “Close it! Hurry!” (Stiffels) Stiffels shouts. The knight order, dismounting their horses as if falling off, desperately shuts the gate and affixes the bolt. After a few moments sounds of knocking against the thick wooden gate reverberate. Furthermore, from the other side, the voices of the pincer attacking soldiers and the sounds of weapons clashing arise. While listening to the frenzied uproar on the opposite side of the door, Stiffels dismounted. “(What is Biron thinking to abandon the city!?)” (Stiffels) Failing his plan, Stiffels looks ahead in the direction of the side facing the royal capital trembling in rage. Even as he watches the road in front until it gets blurry, he can’t see the city’s residents. “I will definitely kill you! After pulverizing the lot from Horant, it will be your turn, you son of a bitch!” (Stiffels) ☺☻☺ Earl Biron was at the end of the line of the escaping residents in Münster, close to the exit towards the royal capital. At the beginning of the escape Sabnak asked Biron to be in the centre of the group because of the danger, but without yielding even a bit, Biron himself works alongside the rear guard of Sabnak’s Third Knight Order with only his wife and children having gone ahead. “It’s been a while since I wore an armor. It feels uncomfortable.” (Biron) Though it even has been a while since he last mounted a horse, Biron is carefree. A single soldier rushes over to the mounted Sabnak and reports something. “... The messenger came. Brother-in-law-san, it seems the enemy army arrived at Münster.” (Sabnak) “Ah, the enemy army, eh? It is nice if they gather all together like this.” (Biron) Feeling like he can hear the sounds of the death struggle in the far distance, Biron looks up to the sky while pondering. “It will become easy if we can successfully meet up with Earl Tohno on the road leading to the capital after this.” (Biron) The city’s residents have evacuated from the city beforehand. It has been decided that they will return once the battle finishes. As it is a city close to the national border, Biron naturally had plans for fleeing prepared, but he didn’t really believe that the day he would use those plans would ever come. Although it was quite the burden on the residents, they had no choice but to make a clear decision of moving rather than loosing their lives. “Certainly, if Hifumi-san arrives, it will probably decide the victory here.” (Sabnak) Sabnak added within his mind. “Sabnak, someone is approaching!” (Biron) It was a single associated knight, but as he dismounted the horse he drew his sword while raising his voice to a roar. “Brother-in-law-san, please stand back. We don’t know whether he is an ally or an enemy.” (Sabnak) Descending from his horse, Sabnak draws his sword. (Swordsmanship isn’t really my strong point, but whatever.) While hiding his sigh, Sabnak set up his stance cautiously and saw the First Knight Order’s Ribezal walking over gripping his spear. And as he lead the First Knight Order’s members, the figure of Prince Ayperos could be seen. Furthermore there was a single unknown man besides the prince. “Captain Ribezal... Prince Ayperos!?” (Knight) Someone from the Third Knight Order raised their voice in surprise. But Sabnak had a bad feeling about this. Searching his mind for a few seconds, he recalled the incident Hifumi encountered in Fokalore. “All hands, don’t lower your guard! These guys are controlled by a magic tool!” (Sabnak) “Eh?” (Knight) A single knight, being late in his decision for an instant, was pierced by Ribezal’s spear. At once it turned into a melee. The number of knights on either side is almost the same. Sabnak’s group thought it would be fine if they endured until the other members of the Third Knight Order and Biron’s territorial soldiers came running, but they were forced into hard fight exceeding their assumptions. “These fellows keep on fighting even if they lose an arm!” (Knight) “It is just as it was written in the report! Calm down and deliver fatal wounds!” (Sabnak) The first Knight Order’s moves have become a little bit dull due to the influence of the magic tool, however that doesn’t particularly change the fact that they are formidable opponents for the Third Knight Order, who isn’t accustomed to combat. “And now you are my opponent... ?” (Sabnak) In front of Sabnak, who has his sword at the ready, stands Ribezal pushing out his spear. Although Ribezal’s eyes are unfocused like the ones of a madman, he has an uncommonly intimidating air. (I see, this is where I die, I guess...) As pessimistic thoughts rise to the surface of his mind suddenly, he returns to reality due to the sound of wind being cut.magic “Ooops, that was dangerous!” (Sabnak) The spear lunges at him successively and although he could see that it was inferior to Ribezal’s ability he had seen before, it was barely at a speed Sabnak could evade. Ribezal’s physical strength isn’t common either. Even stopping the thrusts with the sword’s core, he is pushed to the degree of tottering. In contrast to Sabnak, who began to breathe heavily in the blink of an eye, Ribezal is calmly setting up his stance. “He repelled these thrusts easily? Hifumi-san is a monster after all... uwa!” (Sabnak) Suddenly being pushed from the back, Sabnak walks , steps towards Ribezal. Having Ribezal approach in front, Sabnak jumped to the side in a hurry rolling over on the ground and avoided the spear’s attack that way. “Phew phew...” (Sabnak) Scurrying away from Ribezal’s range, Sabnak stood up leaking a disgruntled voice. “Who is a monster? And also, don’t try to recklessly compete with the range of a spear wielding opponent. Go ahead, forward with you.” (Hifumi) Looking at the owner of that voice, Sabnak saw a youth with his sharp eyes with their dark pupils and his black hair and recognised him. As usual he wore weird clothes and the katana was affixed to his waist. While holding the counterweight of the kusarigama in his hand and spinning it around in circles, Hifumi appears at the front without hesitation. “H-Hifumi-san? No matter how you look at it, you are here too fast...” (Sabnak) “This guy is my prey. You have missed your chance, slowpoke... ah?” (Hifumi) Hifumi frowned due to Ribezal’s state and after looking around he sighed. “He isn’t even conscious, huh? He became boring.” (Hifumi) Shaking his head, Hifumi doesn’t care about Ribezal’s spear approaching him. Without even minding Sabnak’s shout, Hifumi avoids the thrust by having half his body turn sideways. He also slashes at the blade of the spear the moment its forward movement stopped and using the chains it doesn’t touch his body. Hifumi, taking some distance by pushing the continuously thrusting Ribezal away with a front kick into his stomach, swung the counterweight once again and nailed it into the face of his opponent. Although he has his nose in the center of the face smashed, Ribezal doesn’t cease to lunge at Hifumi with his spear. One of Ribezal’s eyes leaps out of its socket and a large amount of blood flows from his eyes, nose and mouth. Even so, Ribezal doesn’t stop. “What a lifeless doll. Without having a reason to fight, his attacks etc. are no different from some kind of broken machine.” (Hifumi) During the time he utters those words, Hifumi, avoiding the spearhead safely, roughly cuts at Ribezal’s arms injuring them in the process with the sickle (kama) held in his left hand. “Hifumi-san, on top of not feeling any pain, those guys don’t feel anything like fear. Even if you plaster them with wounds... Huh?” (Sabnak) As Ribezal’s movements gradually became sluggish, Sabnak tilted his head to the side in confusion. “If it’s a living thing, it will have its body restricted after loosing a fixed amount of blood. It has nothing to do with pain or fear.” (Hifumi) “I think you should know at least this much”, Hifumi said while Ribezal lost the strength to raise his arms and finally dropped to his knees. Hifumi, storing away the kusarigama and quickly drawing the katana from his waist, assaulted the front of Ribezal’s armour. “Found it~~” (Hifumi) Hifumi tightly grabbed the magic tool, exposed to the air, with his left hand and forcibly tore it off. Stretching the pipes embedded in Ribezal’s body, they are plucked out making a sound of *ripping*. The spasming Ribezal, having all of the pipes torn off, collapsed lying spread-eagle while facing up. “U...” (Ribezal) “His consciousness has returned, eh?” (Hifumi) Ribezal, having regained his senses, is bewildered at his own unmovable body. “You b-bastard are... ! M-My body, what did you... ? What the heck happened... ?” (Ribezal) “Don’t know. As far as I know, the only thing now waiting for you is death.” (Hifumi) Hifumi standing up and piercing the bare chest with the katana, lifted up the corners of his mouth as he sensed the feeling of the katana penetrating the heart being transmitted to his right hand. “Umu. If you kill it has to be a human and not a doll.” (Hifumi) While looking with great interest at the katana, which hasn’t much blood on it due to the blood having dwindled before, he wipes it with a paper and stores it in the scabbard. “H-Hifumi-san, if Captain Ribezal’s consciousness has returned before, then...” (Sabnak) Hifumi answered “That’s right” to the timidly approaching Sabnak. “I took a chance and tested it out. Unexpectedly his consciousness returned completely. Dying without being aware of it is even for me stupid. It was a good discovery.” (Hifumi) Sabnak and Biron, watching the whole thing from the start to the end, didn’t say anything to Hifumi, who showed an extremely pleased face, for a while. “Well then, I am still not finished with my prey yet.” (Hifumi) Taking out the chigiriki* as his next weapon and grasping it firmly, Hifumi, with a light stride without any fervour, heads towards the battlefield where the melee between the First and Third Knight Order continues. Watching this, Sabnak yelled in a hurry, “T-Third Knight Order. All members run awaaaaay!” (Sabnak) When the fight begun, Beirevra distanced himself a bit. Watching the death of Ribezal, he was stricken by fright. Being under the influence of the magic tool, Ribezal, being a murdering doll without feeling any dread, wasn’t just lightly dealt with but also expressly had his consciousness returned before getting killed. Due to the act which can’t be called anything but abnormal, Beirevra trembled in horror in regards of the man called Hifumi, not because of his strength but rather because of his madness. When he tried to leave the battlefield by crawling as it was a good thing no one saw him, an intense pain traveled through his calf. “Gyaaa!” (Beirevra) While rolling around due to the sudden pain, he looked teary-eyed at his foot and saw some cross-shaped metal stuck there. “W-What on earth is this?” (Beirevra) A single girl approached Beirevra who couldn’t feel his foot due to the intense pain. “Just when I caught up with Hifumi at last... I haven’t shown my gratitude to Hifumi for this good luck.” (Origa) It is Origa slowly walking over with a shuriken in her right hand. While her fair-skinned face is expressionless, he green pupils are leaking a powerful killing intent as she fixes her glare at Beirevra. “Ara, it seems you remembered.” (Origa) Although it is just a trifling honor, she throws a second shuriken in the same way and also inflicts a wound on the yet unhurt foot. “Guu...” (Beirevra) Without being able to raise his voice already due to the pain, Beirevra clenches his teeth, frantically pulls out the shuriken and binds up the wound with a piece of ripped off cloth. Nevertheless, the blood doesn’t stop to spill. “Won’t you help me... ? With my feet like this, there is nothing but death in the wild awaiting me by now. At least I want to die more calmly...” (Beirevra) Beirevra, showing a disgraceful lamenting, anticipated help from the spy of Horant within his mind. He continues his speech to gain further time as the pursuit isn’t coming. “Therefore...” (Beirevra) “Shut up.” (Origa) Origa finished the casting during the time Beirevra wept and begged. The wind blades mercilessly sent one arm flying. “Gyaaaaaaaaaaaaa!” (Beirevra) Origa’s facial expression doesn’t even change a bit seeing Beirevra turning a somersault scattering his blood after having his arm cleanly cut off at the root of his shoulder while bawling with a *giddy laughter*. “For you it is an appropriate way to die while grovelling on the ground like this frantically trying to survive. Have a disgraceful, uncouth and gruesome death. And only after that the possibility of me forgiving your deeds might appear.” (Origa) By now, he isn’t capable to even talk anymore. Beirevra, restlessly stirring his injured feet and trying to move to escape the predicament, repeats his talking about help as if in delirium. Origa doesn’t listen to him. “You probably don’t understand the humiliation we suffered. I don’t want you to understand it either. If we didn’t have the luck to be picked up by Hifumi, by now we would...” (Origa) Drawing near to the struggling Beirevra, she tramples down on his abdomen and his movement ceases. Beginning to have a hazy consciousness due to the blood loss, Origa is reflected in Beirevra’s blurry field of vision. He watched her taking off the dagger fixed to her wrist and grasping it tightly in her right hand. “Hifumi-sama, I wish to express my gratitude. I am able to carry out my revenge with this. And, look Kasha, at the way our foe heads towards his death.” (Origa) Origa, murmuring as if she is holding a conversation with someone bit by bit, swung down the dagger with all her strength towards Beirevra’s chest. Being stabbed in the heart, it was an instant death for Beirevra. Having pulled out the dagger, Origa noticed herself sobbing. She doesn’t understand the reason for those tears either, but just by finishing her revenge, she could definitely feel the liberation of her own heart within her chest.

“I want to ask you one thing.” (Laboras) While grasping the haft of the knife tightly, Laboras asks without drawing the blade out. “Why did you come to this forest?” (Laboras) “I heard that the demon race is deep within this forest. I came to visit them.” (Hifumi) “You plan to meet the demons, huh?” (Laboras) Hearing Hifumi’s reply, Laboras swiftly draws his knife. While having a stance of aiming at the eyes with his katana, Hifumi doesn’t move. “The demons are dangerous. I don’t know what you intend to do, but even though we are imprisoning them on behalf of this world, you are only bringing unnecessary turmoil.” (Laboras) Laboras kept his left hand free to use magic while holding the knife in a backhand grip in his right hand. The five elves who saw that change, similarly set up their bows and knives. “Get out of my sight, you weakling who want to escape! The ones who are to stay here are only the elves who have the resolve to protect this forest and world.” (Laboras) Having started to retreat bit-by-bit, the elves stopped their feet. Hifumi is also waiting to see which choice they will make. “For me... impossible.” “For me as well.” One after the other two elves ran away, however the remaining three elven youths readied their weapons. “The actors have assembled. Let’s begin?” (Hifumi) The beginning was a magic attack by Laboras. Several tens of fist-sized pellets which had sharpened points assault Hifumi in succession at a speed similar to a machine-gun. Although Hifumi dashed forward swiftly and greeted with a thrust, Laboras roughly repelled it with his knife. Laboras drives his free left hand into Hifumi’s abdomen with the momentum of the swung knife. Kicking the ground at the moment of being hit, Hifumi who became unsteady used the force of being struck to take some distance. Once again they face each other at the same distance. Due to the sudden close combat, the surrounding elves are unable to give cover or to do anything else. Even though they have readied their spells and arrows, they have no choice but to watch attentively. “You are quick and you are even able to hit me, huh?” (Hifumi) Hifumi fixed his stance once again. The hit abdomen is painful to the extent that I can at least expect a bruise though it’s unlikely to have reached as far as my internal organs. “An incompetent person who completely relies on magic isn’t fit to act as mediator between men. It seems that you avoided it skilfully just now, but next time that won’t work.” (Laboras) Changing his hold of the knife to an overhand grip, Laboras takes a stance of curling up his back. Holding out the knife he held in his right hand, his left hand supports in a style of enabling him to release magic at any time. “It’s a different stance. However, it looks like you are familiar with it.” (Hifumi) “Indeed. This is an elven technique we have fostered in this forest. It’s at a different level in skill, weaponry and magic in comparison to you lowly humans.” (Laboras) Making sure to slide his feet, Laboras slowly closes the distance. Hifumi doesn’t miss the instant Laboras shifted his sight. A wind spell burst open underfoot the spot where Hifumi moved away from with a single step. “... Avoided, huh?” (Laboras) “Don’t leak such easily detectable signs. It’s a kill-joy.” (Hifumi) “Humph... do it!” (Laboras) Upon Laboras’ command arrows and spells attack Hifumi all at once. Their speed is much faster than that of the elves who attacked Hifumi a while ago. The power is higher as well. Hifumi avoids them by shifting his body and repelling them with his katana, but in a style of matching the saturation attack, Laboras adds attacks with his knife and wedge-shaped stones with a perfect timing. “You are doing nothing but avoiding!” (Laboras) Laboras increases the speed by stacking up even more attacks. Hifumi, who knocked aside the thrust out knife among those blows with his bare hand, turned around and ran off. “Are you running away?” (Laboras) Swinging his arm which was wounded by the knife, Hifumi steals the sight of an elf with his blood. “Ugh?” The elf, who tried to fire an arrow, faltered only for an instant due to his abruptly dyed red field of vision. That became this man’s final moment. Alongside the wooden bow he grasped in his hands, his body was was bisected into two parts at the waist in a flash. “It’s only vaguely, but...” (Hifumi) As result of their companion being killed by the opponent who was showered with a saturation attack, they unintentionally cease their attacks. “The style of the archery is harder to grasp than the magic. No, it’s the other way around. I reached the point where I can somehow understand the magic.” (Hifumi) While saying that, he struck the wind spell approaching from behind with the hilt of the katana and scattered it. “... You bastard, are you really a human...?” (Laboras) Due to the subdued voice of Laboras who spilled drops of sweat, Hifumi answered with a smile, “That’s obvious. You, me, you guys will die if we are cut by a blade. We are normal people. Just like him.” (Hifumi) He points at the corpse which had its body split in two. “That’s probably why we get thrilled by killing each other, because starting over is not possible.” (Hifumi) Without minding his injured left hand, Hifumi grasps the katana tightly with both hands and assumes a hachisou* stance. “I will kill you here by all means.” (Laboras) “I see. Do your best.” (Hifumi) Once again the magic attacks concentrated on Hifumi who muttered that as if it was someone else’s problem. Different to before, Hifumi lets the spells go past while running around as he pleases. He slips through the spaces between the lined-up elves just like a whirlwind. “Auu!” “Guaaa?” The elves in all directions raise screams and collapse in fountains of blood. While being hindered by their brethren making them unable to take aim, three more got killed. Suddenly noticing something, Hifumi pushed the back of an elf. “Eh...? Eh...” The elf didn’t comprehend what was done to him for an instant, but once he lowered his look due to an intense impact, he saw a large wedged stone piercing into his own chest. “Why...?” Once the dead elf collapsed without even understanding the reason, Hifumi’s smiling face was reflected in the sight of Laboras who released the spell. “L-Laboras-san!?” An elf, surprised by the friendly fire, shifted his attention from Hifumi to Laboras and was instantly killed by the katana stabbing directly into his heart. Laboras fires one stone after the other at Hifumi with magic while including his companion, who got skewered, in the line of fire. While pulling out the katana, Hifumi, who decided to use the corpse as shield and kicked it flying, dashed in an extremely forward-bent posture, as if falling, by drawing out the power of his knees. He doesn’t head towards Laboras, but to another elf. “D-Don’t come!” Although he tries to face Hifumi with magic in panic and fright, he is too slow. As he tried to finish him with a reversed diagonal shoulder slash, Hifumi fell onto his back this time. At the moment the elf felt relieved with a “I’m saved,” his entire body was riddled with holes by the stone bullets, similar to finely sharpened shells, fired by Laboras.magic “Tsk.” (Laboras) “Don’t sweep away my prey from the side.” (Hifumi) Hifumi pouted at Laboras who clicked his tongue due to Hifumi avoiding his shots. Laboras doesn’t reply. Facing Hifumi who stopped his feet, he approaches him with the knife in his hand while roaring. Similar to his strong body, which doesn’t suit the image of elves, his knife is also thick and solid. In contrast to that, his attacks are precise without any gaps. “You are quite skilled.” (Hifumi) The thrusts are accurately aiming at the vital spots and the blended-in slashes are swung in order to close possible escape routes. Hifumi, who deals with those while handling the spells from the surroundings, is slowly retreating while getting more and more small gashes. However, Hifumi doesn’t take the initiative. And, Hifumi has a composed expression. “Fast. But, those attacks are too straightforward.” (Hifumi) At that moment, the elves including Laboras saw something unbelievable. The katana wielded by Hifumi counters all of the knife thrusts with its point. The thrust are met with thrusts. Countless sparks violently revolved between those two. “I can’t believe that you are doing this!” (Laboras) Although Laboras frantically raises the speed of his thrusts, Hifumi calmly follows up on that. “Easily readable attacks won’t work.” (Hifumi) The tempo accelerates accompanied by creaking metallic sounds. “Guh, this!” (Laboras) Laboras, who grew impatient, unleashes a thrust entrusting the weight of his entire body into it with a force to break through Hifumi’s defence. However, Hifumi passes alongside the flank of Laboras who pitched forward without meeting the attack. “Ah?” (Laboras) Laboras stumbled a step or two forwards as the impact he expected was missing. His knee was stepped on by Hifumi from the side. Losing his balance, Laboras forcibly twisted his body without collapsing obediently and swung his knife. But, his outstretched arm is sent flying after getting cut by the katana. “Damn iiitt!” (Laboras) The throat of Laboras, who raised a scream after having lost an arm, is torn open by the blade which pierced into it in a smooth and unhindered motion. Laboras, who spilled hot blood from his mouth and throat, died while glaring at Hifumi. “L-Laboras-san is...” There still one young elven man alive. “U-Umm...” Throwing away the bow he held in his hands, the elf just bows while only breathing out from his mouth as he is puzzled whether he should beg and what kind of words he should use. Hifumi approaches the elf, who fell to his knees, while holding the katana in his hand. “You had a chance to choose.” (Hifumi) “Therefore this is nothing but the outcome of your choice”, Hifumi swung his katana downwards. ☺☻☺ Once Zanga raised her face due to the sound of the sound of the wooden door being lifted, the bloodstained Hifumi stood there. “... Did you come to kill me?” (Zanga) Puuse and Shiku are nestling close to Zanga on both her sides. “If you still believe that you want to die, I won’t mind.” (Hifumi) The knife, thrown by Hifumi, pierces into the ashes of the sunken hearth. “This is... Laboras’ knife.” (Zanga) Intently staring at the knife which she had sometimes carefully maintained, Zanga had seen it several times in the past. “Laboras is dead... so, do you yearn to exact your revenge upon the elves who were hostile towards you?” (Zanga) Puuse’s and Shiku’s bodies stiffened. “Not really.” (Hifumi) “... You aren’t angry? This elf village attacked you, didn’t it?” (Zanga) “I will kill if I’m challenged. If that doesn’t happen, I have no hobby of going out of my way to kill weaklings either. Rather than that, I prefer to go visit the demon race. I will have you guide me there at noon after I got some sleep.” (Hifumi) When Hifumi turned on his heel, Zanga extended a hand in panic. “P-Please wait.” (Zanga) Zanga, who got up vigorously, is supported by Puuse. “I heard from Shiku. He told me that you discovered something about the final moment’s of an elf.” (Zanga) Hifumi explained what he told the elves from before. Explaining the accumulation of something that entered their bodies and the way it changes by slowly hardening from the extremities of the body, Puuse’s face turns pale. But, Zanga listened while nodding. “... Finally I’m able to understand, the reason for my strangely long life.” (Zanga) Zanga tosses a twig into the fire of the sunken hearth which was about to vanish and blows at it with a “Fuu~” Politer than usual, she lowers her body softly. “I didn’t go outside much since I was small. I didn’t get too close to the forest either because I was scared. If that “something” from the forests’ trees is the reason, then I can understand why my transformation has been slow. Now that I think about it, I have a feeling that those, who spent a lot of time in the forest, died early as well. However, even if I say that now, it cannot be helped anymore.” (Zanga) Zanga shed tears while talking. She only weeps while enduring the pain with a dishevelled expression. “While living with the blessing of the forest and being called the people of the forest, we were getting killed by that very forest... It can’t be something that empty... Grandma...” (Zanga) What kind of emotions did her grandmother, she ended up abandoning in her childhood, bear, I wonder? Her mental state, which was burdened with the despair of having abandoned her and the despair of her grandmother not having had a peaceful death; just how heartbreaking was it? I’m not even able to imagine it. “Zanga-sama...” (Puuse) Looking at Shiku and Puuse who is uneasily calling out to her, Zanga roughly wiped away her tears with a cloth at her side. “Hii hi... I ended up showing you something embarrassing. Human-san, I have a single request.” (Zanga) Standing up, Zanga bowed towards Hifumi who is looking down on her expressionlessly. “Since I will recruit those who want to leave this village, can you please take us, including me as well, to some other place?” (Zanga) “Za-Zanga-sama?” (Puuse) The shocked Puuse raises her voice, but Zanga remains in a state of bowing. “As leader of the elves of this village I only want to popularize this attempt. One day the elves will be imprisoned by this forest. No, they already are, I think.” (Zanga) “Didn’t I tell you that I’m going to the demons?” (Hifumi) “It’s fine if it’s after you come back from there. Also, gathering the interested people of the village will take time. I know that I’m making an unreasonable request, but I will do anything for it.” (Zanga) “That’s my duty as leader”, Zanga looked at Hifumi. “Aren’t elves good at magic though?” (Hifumi) Zanga laughed with a “Hya Hya” due to the sudden question. “They are. It’s my strong point. Puuse is quite skilled at healing magic, too.” (Zanga) “Is that something which you were taught by another race?” (Hifumi) “I don’t think so. It might be possible... No, I guess there’s no other choice but to do it, if that’s your wish, human-san.” (Zanga) Hearing her answer, Hifumi placed a hand on his chin and groaned. “... If that’s the case, I will have you do it.” (Hifumi) “Further talks are after I come back”, leaving those words behind, Hifumi went away. “Zanga-sama, I will accompany you. ... I have also become scared of this forest’s scenery...” (Puuse) “Are you sure? It’s not like you have to force yourself to leave the forest since you are still young.” (Zanga) Puuse softly shook her head while smiling. “It’s my way of thanking you for teaching me magic, Zanga-sama. Even though that method will be some kind of challenge, something like not helping you is impossible for me.” (Puuse) “I-I will help as well! ... Magic is difficult, but...” (Shiku) Stroking Shiku’s head, Zanga murmured a “Thank you.” “Somehow it got exciting, didn’t it?” (Zanga) Although my brethren got killed, I guess I’m truly cruel

Hifumi walked leisurely into the town, disappearing into the crowd. Leaving the castle, Hifumi passed by an area lined with very large mansions that seemed to belong to nobles, arriving at an area lined with -storey and -storey houses, various shops, stalls and some food carts. An enticing smell wafts from the stall grilling and selling some kind of meat and fish. In a shop storing large amounts of vegetables, common people are happily gossiping. On a roadside table attached to a restaurant, some old men with pipes were discussing something. Men and women of all ages came and went, voices of merchants resounded here and there, adding to the hustle and bustle. The clothes varied, but could not be called beautiful. The clothing industry was quite possibly not too advanced, thought Hifumi. Incidentally, Hifumi was clad in a martial arts uniform, a dark blue hakama, on his feet were a style of sneakers. Besides, some people were glancing at Hifumi, but he wasn’t worried, since it was a habit to go for a stroll wearing his hakama in Japan. Even though the King was incompetent, these fellows in town are quite well-built. That King was living quite extravagantly. Taking a silver coin out of the Dark Hole, Hifumi bought some skewers from a stall. He was looked at unkindly for taking out a silver coin for skewers that cost copper coins, but was presented with twice the skewers when he said the change was unnecessary. As he ate while walking, he noticed a shop with a strange atmosphere. He did not see any products on display, nothing special drawing him in. A black cloth was hanging over the entrance, and a stern faced man standing near it with folded arms. Though there was a signboard, Hifumi could not read it. Because he was interested, he decided to call out. 「 Aa..... what? 」 Suddenly talked to, the man responded with his eyebrows raised. 「 What kind of shop is this? 」 「 It is written on the signboard. It is a slave shop and has nothing to do with a guy like you. 」 「 Nothing to do? Without even an introduction? 」 「 ....Such a thing, the cheapest of our slaves cost gold coins, it is not an amount a youngster like you can pay. 」 Finishing his speech, the man turned his eyes to the street again. A slave, huh... Thinking about the future, while walking, Hifumi thought about it again. Though I intended to travel around the world first... In the previous events, he could not read the characters, did not understand the values of the coins, and realised that he did not have enough knowledge at all. Though he shopped at the stalls, he did not get the change, so he didn’t know about the conversion rate. If he had a slave, he would be able to obtain that knowledge, and it would be convenient in the future. He had enough money, after all, he had half the contents of the castle treasury. Even if it was a somewhat high-class slave, it would be sufficient. In case of betrayal, he would ‘deal with the problem’. 「 A gold coin, like this? 」 Pulling out a gold coin from the Dark Hole, Hifumi threw it at the stern man. 「 Ah? .... Yes, but one or two coins.... 」 「 Put out your hands. 」 Hifumi grabbed the man’s wrist and forced it upwards. He threw out approximately gold coins from the storage into the hands of the man who was surprised at Hifumi’s strength. Though more than half spilled and scattered, Hifumi was unconcerned. 「 Huh?? 」 「 Thank you for telling me this so kindly, but I want to see the commodities, get it? 」 Dumbfounded, the man quickly picked up the gold coins, his attitude did a complete 80 and urged Hifumi inside the shop. 「 W-Wait here please! M-Masterrrr ! 」 The man disappeared into the depths of the shop, and another person came out. Without letting Hifumi wait too long, a man dressed in subdued, yet high quality clothes received him. 「 I am sorry for keeping you waiting. I am this shop’s manager. Dealing with the gatekeeper must have left a bad taste in your mouth..... 」 Although smiling, the man appraised Hifumi on seeing him. 「 Not a big deal. Though I heard it is possible to buy slaves here. 」 「 That is generous of you. This shop certainly trades in slaves. Honoured customer, shall we begin the slave purchasing? Of course, I can explain a little about this for a first-time buyer. 」 「 Ah, though embarrassing, I am from the countryside, so please explain everything. 」 「 Well then... 」 The manager explained concisely, holding to the main points. There are Crime slaves and Debt slaves, slaves sold for the sake of their families or villages called Realisation slaves. For Crime slaves, all of them belong to the country and are forced to work in the mines, etc, they are generally not sold. In general, there are only 2 kinds of slaves sold here : Debt and Realisation slaves. Though there are people who are kidnapped and enslaved, because there is a very high penalty for handling such slaves, most merchants don’t deal in them. The slave’s actions are limited by a tattoo imbued with special magic, it is impossible to rebel against the owner. Though slaves don’t have rights, it is a crime to kill one without cause. 「 Is it necessary for there to be a reason? 」 「 I’m afraid so. Though the master or their family cannot harm the slave directly due to the limitation set into the tattoo, if the master’s belonging is stolen, or if an associate of the master is harmed, it is not a crime. 」 「 Is there a need to prove it? 」 「 The master’s testimony is enough. 」 Seeing that the law was full of holes, Hifumi sighed. However, it is convenient. Shutting his eyes and thinking for a while, he asked the manager 「 Is there a slave that meets my conditions now? Money is not an issue. 」 The manager takes out a sheaf of parchment from his breast pocket, dips a quill in ink from a nearby table, and waits for the next words. 「 Has to have enough strength, should be able to endure long travel, should be able to read and write. Also powerful enough to protect me in a fight. 」 Quickly scribbling the data, the manager suddenly looked up. 「 A man or a woman, which is preferred? 」 「 Either one is fine. The problem is ability. 」 「 Certainly. We will prepare it, please wait for a while. 」 The manager ushers Hifumi to the interior of the shop. 「 Here, the merchandise that meet your requirements. Please choose freely. 」 「 Talk to them? 」 「 Of course, no problem. 」 The room Hifumi was taken to was wide, and ten men and women lined up against the walls in handcuffs. Wearing simple, dirty tunics, they looked hesitatingly at Hifumi. What kind of person buys them, their fate is in that party’s hands. Hifumi imagined what he looked like in the eyes of the slaves. Hifumi hardly looked old enough to be earning money. Did he even look like a merchant, noble or well-to-do young man.... Recalling his appearance, he smiled wryly, realising that was not the case. Suddenly, among the slaves that had lined up, two women next to each other caught Hifumi’s eye. One was of small build, height came upto Hifumi’s neck, thin blue hair and emerald green eyes. The other was almost the same height as Hifumi, had a tempered and hard body. She had reddish eyes and brown hair. I saw it in town, hair and eyes like this are poles apart..... Both had well featured faces. Truly, an appearance such that a brothel owner will immediately buy them. 「 You and you. Name? 」 「 ....Origa」 The smaller one answered in a fading voice. The brown haired one did not answer. Ignoring the audaciously staring brunette, Hifumi asked Origa. 「 Then, Origa, what can you do? 」 「 .... I can use wind and water magic. Besides.... 」 After hesitating a little, catching her breath, she continued jerkily 「 At night, can also keep company... 」 「 Origa! 」 To Origa’s murmur, the brunette raised her voice. 「 To be bought by such a person! A perverted noble buying us, how unpleasant... 」 「 Such a thing! Do you not understand what kind of fellow this guy is? 」 (Manager) The manager raised a whip he was holding and drew near, but Hifumi raised a hand to stop him. The brunette seems to be called Kasha. Hifumi admitted he did have a strange air about him. 18 year old Hifumi had a sexual desire like anyone else, and he did not dislike women. Though currently, the satisfaction of depriving people of their lives suppressed his desires.... Not noticing the abnormality, Hifumi casually ran his eyes over Kasha’s hands. 「 Kasha, is it. You use both hands to wield a saber. In addition, you can wield swords in both hands at the same time. 」 「 H-How... 」 「 Generally, I can understand the rough ability from the muscle movements of your palm, forefinger and thumb. 」(TN: Huh? How?) Not just Kasha, but even Origa and the manager are at a loss for words. 「 Certainly, this Kasha uses swords in both hands, her ability as an adventurer is quite good. Origa worked alongside Kasha, her magical ability is quite high. Both of them have become Debt slaves due to a large sum of money. 」 The manager supplemented. Origa and Kasha listened with unpleasant expressions. Adventurer, huh.... Perhaps such an occupation exists in fantasy novels, forming parties whose task is subjugation and collection of demons and monsters. But in this world, what kind of occupation is this? 「 Okay. Now you two decide. 」 Hifumi’s expression had a cold smile. 「 I plan to travel in the future. Physical strength is necessary, fights are very likely. If you can follow without betraying me, I promise a fun life. 」 「 What do you say? Being slaves to a fun life... 」 「 I will follow. 」 Origa answered Hifumi in a low voice. Her emerald green eyes stared firmly at him. A little frightened, her eyes shook with tears. Man, I’ve been scaring women since I came here. Turning a blind eye to his faults, he wondered (What should I do about Kasha?) Kasha trembled. Why is this man doing such an incomprehensible thing? Why is Origa following this fellow? She looked at the man in front of her. Though he is smiling, her spine freezes. This guy is dangerous. Her instinct sounds an alarm, this guy won’t hesitate to jump into dangerous things. Rather than that, the darkness in the depths of his eyes brings anxiety to Kasha’s heart. However, Kasha had no choice when it came to Origa. 「 ....Understood. Though I do not understand how, I want you to take me with Origa.... 」 「 It is decided! 」(Manager) Though Hifumi did not quite understand the mechanism of the tattoo, he smeared some blood on the tattoos on Origa and Kasha’s shoulders, completing the contract.magic The amount of money paid for both of them was 600 gold coins. Paying the full amount in cash surprised the manager, Origa et al, but it was more surprising that the customer was a user of the rare Dark magic. 「 An extremely mysterious person. Though it is obvious that he is from a far off place based on his clothes..... 」 At first, the manager was trying to analyse Hifumi, but now treated him like a guest of honour, as evidenced by the tea and sweets in the drawing room. Behind Hifumi who was sitting on the sofa, Kasha and Origa stood with their handcuffs removed, both wearing simple tunics. 「 This was good business. By all means, please visit our shop again when more slaves are needed. 」 「 Ah, I too was able to do some good shopping. 」 Wrapping the sweets in a cloth, Hifumi left the shop with his slaves. Greeted by the hustle an bustle of the city, Hifumi looked up at the sun. If morning and night were the same in this world, it would be noon. 「 I’m hungry. 」 Time flew during his morning practice, and he had only eaten a snack at the stall. He wanted a proper meal. 「 Do you know any place that serves good food? 」 「 In that case, there is a good store where I went a little.... There it is. 」 Kasha answered Hifumi’s question. 「 It is not necessary to force yourself to use honorifics. 」 Hifumi says with a calm smile, different from a while ago. Though he has an arrogant and self-centred standard that inconveniences others, he is kind to his family. If someone is not an enemy, he treats them humanely. 「 Then, let us try out the recommended shop. Ah, that’s right.... 」 Neither Origa nor Kasha understood what he said, he continued, 「 I am being chased by this kingdom’s royalty, we need to leave. 」

Along the road illuminated by the morning sun runs a handcar at neck-breaking speed. Two soldiers are silently pumping the car down the rail, drenched in sweat. Since leaving Arosel they have gone non-stop towards Folkalore, and though are much exhausted they do not stop; their duty to their lord motivates them to return even a second sooner. And upon reaching their destination, the hand car passed beyond the end of the rail, crashing and sending the soldiers into a mountain of straw, which was there to break their fall. Even so, one of them fainted from the impact, while the other hurried out from the straw. 「Blegh... it’s rotten, isn’t it」 He said, spitting out straw from his mouth. Soldiers from the gate run up to him, 「Who goes there?!」 「Ah, I am a messenger from the scout division. I can no longer run, so pass my words to Lord Hifumi... Vichy troops have been spotted approaching Rhone. A host of about , men. of them may be magic casters.」 「So they have come!」 「Alright, I’m heading off to the castle!」 More than tension the soldiers felt exhilaration, and this atmosphere spread through the army. They spoke with the scout for but a brief moment, but had already understood the crux of the report. The passed out soldier was awoken with a bucket of water, and the soldiers who were otherwise unoccupied went around telling the others the news. This day began with the lightest mood the soldiers have felt since Vichy began preparing their forces, Origa knocked on the door to the lord’s office, and waited to be permitted to enter. Upon entering, she saw Hifumi with his legs crossed on the table, pondering something. Kasha was nowhere to be seen. 「You have called for me, how can I be of service?」 「Origa? A messenger reported incoming Vichy force」 「So it’s finally time?」 「In the end, they completely ignored the matter with Beirevra」 Origa gently shook her head. 「I am grateful for the concern, but the fault lies with Vichy for stepping on the tiger’s tail. The matter of Beirevra can be solved when Vichy is no more」 Hifumi said whilst holding onto the paper in his hand. 「What has been on your mind, my lord?」 「Since a while back, I’ve been told to settle on a formal Family name for my domain. I hadn’t thought to do it until the next expedition, though」 He didn’t want to think about it, so he used to write “Tohno” on the documents. He wasn’t particularly attached to the name, but couldn’t think of anything else. And since then, the region was known as Vagenti’s Domain no longer. It was now Tohno’s Domain. 「Alright. Just as we planned, have the garrison forces return. Have the prototypes prepared as well」 「Understood. I will pass the order along to Alyssa. I am honored to be allowed to assist you my lord on your path towards victory」 「That’s wrong」 「I apologize. We shall show Hifumi-sama how we wonderfully crush the enemy」Currently the plan was to empty Rhone, set traps, and decrease the number of enemies that way. Hifumi, however, would move on his own. Origa saw is inappropriate to allow Hifumi’s image to deteriorate because of a loss, and thus rejected this kind of tactic, but because Hifumi himself did not care much for victory, she didn’t object too strongly. After all, he started the war to kill a lot of people; if he won, he would have to plan another battle, and devise schemes to win the next one. Victory itself mattered little to Hifumi. 「I hear that Vichy has invaded!」 The door opened with a bang, and Kasha ran in. 「Yes」 「Why are you so relaxed! We have to prepare」 「Calm down. You have a task you must carry out. There’s no use shouting around in our Lord’s room. Prepare for Hifumi-sama’s departure.」 「Y-yes, but... Origa is also going to fight?」 Kasha’s face was dyed in worry, while Origa carried a cool expression.magic 「What are you saying now? You have your mission, I have mine」 「Hifumi-san, surely you can’t possibly let Origa out onto the front lines?!」 Obstinately, Kasha directed the conversation at Hifumi, but his cool response crushed her hopes. 「Not really. She should do as she will. She is not my slave, you see」 「I will fight together with Hifumi-sama」 Seeing that no further words could convince either of them, Kasha’s shoulders dropped and, 「... I will make preparations」 「Would that be fine?」 「She is a part of the larger play. She’s necessary to set the stage as I will it」 Hifumi wore his katana on his hip, and left. 「Kasha is just a fool, after all...」 A whisper that no one could have heard. By the rail and shuttle one could reach Arosel from Folkare by the following day, and thus in a day the forces were assembled there. This was a speed never before seen in this world. 「How peaceful...」 Though it was cloudy, it was not cold. Tying the obi of his hakama, Hifumi looked down the road in the direction of Rhone. On one side of the road lay the tracks. Behind Hifumi, in the city of Arosel, the hoi polloi were taking shelter while the soldiers were busily getting ready for war. By their predictions, the vanguard of the Vichy forces was set to come into view by tomorrow. 「We have finished preparations」 Alyssa stated, having arrived with two soldiers. The soldiers were on the handcart, choosing the direction it would move in. 「’Tis finally time... Hifumi-san truly does not fear war?」 「It’s an opportunity to kill people in broad daylight. Missing it would be a shame」 「You never think that you will be the one to be killed?」 Hifumi answered Alyssa’s question while as he got onto the handcart. 「Of course I do. When you kill, it’s a privilege to not be killed」 「Huh?」 「Alright, let’s go」 The soldiers set the cart into motion upon his order. The cart accelerated and soon it was out of sight. 「So Hifumi-san also thinks about dying...」 Remembering her own close brush with death, Alyssa tried imaging a mortally wounded Hifumi, but could conjure no such image in her mind. Rhone, on the border, had no garrison and no traps to welcome the invaders. The Vichy vanguard were able to relax only after a few hours, and came to use Rhone as a rest area. Probably to attempt to reward their soldiers as much as they could. As Orsongrande forces never used the houses in Rhone, a thick layer of dust was present in every building, but it was still better than sleeping on grass and stones. And observing these boisterous soldiers who were partaking in a meal, was none other than Hifumi. Vichy soldiers were shabbily dressed, and outside of the captains and generals giving out orders, none looked like a part of the regular army. The way they moved showed an attempt at discipline but a complete lack of thereof as well, a truly shabby scene. Observing this horde and separating them into groups of hundreds and thousands, were the captains and the generals. These men came together and started bickering angrily. The eldest among them, a man with a dark mustache, was clearly in disagreement with the rest. He was demanding that they immediately attack Orsongrande, while the others were demanding a break, leading to discontent and disagreement between them. When their “meeting” concluded, each commander went into a different building. (They are probably planning on rearranging the troops after they all have gathered in the city) Gliding into the shadows created by buildings, Hifumi slept there until it was dark. Upon hearing that Vichy troops were advancing, an individual took the fastest horse to Orsongrande Castle. 「...Pajo, as expected」 「Ay!」 Upon learning of the news Imeraria called Pajo and ordered her dispatch reinforcements to Folkalore, as they have previously schemed. When Pajo had left, Imeraria called in the Prime Minister. He, too, knew of her intentions. 「Imeraria-sama... are you certain this is what you wish for?」 「I have made up my mind. Pajo, too, is satisfied... Yes, it is my fault that Hifumi-sama was brought into this world and subjected to unpleasant happenings」 Imeraria’s gaze was towards Folkalore. 「That, however, does not give him a right to trample on this world. I can’t say I am not motivated by a personal grudge, though... Had he fought the beast-men there may have been use of him, but fighting fellow humans is unforgivable」 「Imeraria-sama...」 「’Tis an underhanded trick, but should Hifumi-sama overcome the predicament before him, should he be such an aberrant of a man, then no one under the heavens could stop him. But I have been told Vichy forces number more than ten thousand. Victory with a handful of men is impossible.」 And as her tears spilled out, 「I am powerless. I can’t even strike down my father’s foe without resorting to cheap tricks. Should I fail I too will die. When that happens, please take care of my brother」 The Prime Minister, without saying anything, bowed and left. Night had fallen on the city of Rhone shrouding it in darkness and silence. Some still stood around campfires, their sleepy faces illuminated by its light. (I guess it’s time) Hifumi slipped out from his hiding spot and traveled from shadow to shadow. His targeted the buildings he demarcated as belonging to commanders. He approached the first building and tried the lock on the wooden door—it was unlocked so he went in. There were five people inside the house. One in each room, sleeping. He entered a room and slit the throat of a sleeping enemy. Then to the next, and the next, murdering as he went. (Yup, yup, next, next) Hifumi then moved to the next housing, dispatching of the men he remembered seeing that day and any who were in the house. Some were embracing a woman, so he skewered both of them. (Wasn’t there a movie with a similar plot?) Hifumi was not a fan of horror, so he didn’t remember the movie all too well. Picking methods that would dispose of his enemies quickly, Hifumi felt like he was being a kind person to them. But he did indeed pick methods like cutting the carotid artery, decapitating, stabbing in the heart, stabbing the brain, cutting a body in half—methods were such that a sleeping person could not react. Within two hours he had planned to dispose of every commander. Not a single had learned of Hifumi’s presence, nor put up any resistance, causing Hifumi to quickly grow bored. He desperately hoped that some would counterattack, but all disappointed. He also saw food, but found it boring to kill starving enemies, so decided not to tamper with it. At last he entered the building where the mustache-commander was. The mustache-geezer was soundly snoring in his room. After observing his sleeping face, Hifumi took out not his katana, but a quill and wrote. Buer, the man feared as the strictest general, awoke with the phrase『Noisy Bastard』written on his forehead. Buer was known as the strongest, most violent general, and his anger was likewise famous. Thus when he saw the phrase written on his forehead he exploded in anger. Yet even that anger was incomparable to his rage when he heard that every other commander was killed. 「Such cowardly tricks! And why leave me alive?!」 His poor chamberlain could only remain silent through his anger. 「Is he saying that I’m not a threat?! That my presence wouldn’t change anything?!」 Hifumi was kind enough upon leaving Rhone to show himself to a patrolling soldier and then knock him out. This way he meant to convey that the slaughter was carried out by someone from the outside. Buer, of course, figured that Orsongrande must have done it. A few soldiers were so afraid of the sudden demise of their commanders that they fled. Buer berated these individuals, threatening them with the greatest of punishment, and failed to consider his troops when forcing the march. 「Orsongrande bastards! I will reach your gates and end you! Just come before me!」 The soldiers drowning in his constant litany of anger and hatred, were marching towards Folkalore even more exhausted than they were yesterday.

“Set the spears, which were soaked with oil, on fire and launch them.” “The targets are the immortal soldiers! Do it with the intention to burn them to nothing before they can crawl out from the box!” Imeraria’s and Nelgal’s instructions are flying around. Brightly burning spears and of course fire arrows are shot towards the castle one after the other by the allied forces of Orsongrande and Horant. Is it an amusement for the present soldiers that sometimes the main body of a spear thrower ends up catching fire? “... That, is that fine? To set fire to the castle...” (Puuse) Puuse, who was assigned the overly ambiguous position of temporary advisor, addressed Imeraria while showing an unsettled expression that doesn’t fit her post. “No problem. Originally something like a castle is made out of stone which makes setting it on fire basically difficult. Not placing burnable things in the vicinity of the outer walls is the standard. Given that Nelgal-sama confirmed it as well, the surrounding pens and such will probably get burned, but there’s no problem for the castle itself.” (Imeraria) “I-Is that so? You are quite knowledgeable.” (Puuse) It was inevitable that Puuse’s thoughts were funny for Imeraria. “*chuckles* I was born and raised as First Princess of Orsongrande. A castle was my home.” (Imeraria) “Ah.” (Puuse) Seeing the person she is talking with in a new light, Puuse blushes. “It’s fine. Please ask me anything as I shall teach you if there’s something you don’t understand. Besides, I believe that there are various things you want to hear from me as well.” (Imeraria) Once Imeraria returns her sight ((to the castle)), flames are rising on the other side of the castle gate and the groans, which rose successively, are vanishing. “The disabling of the immortal soldiers seems to be going well. If we fire for a bit longer, they will probably be immobilized completely.” (Nelgal) Imeraria, who nodded at Nelgal’s words, shifts her look towards Sabnak. Meeting her eyes, Sabnak nodded silently. “Well then, Nelgal-sama, just as planned.” (Imeraria) “Got it. Start the operation!” (Nelgal) Alongside Nelgal’s order, several spears, which haven’t been ignited, were shot by Horant’s soldiers. The aim of the spears is Prime Minister Kuzemu who was suspended by a rope outside the castle just like a pilloried criminal exposed to public view. “Eeh!?” His voice can’t be heard, but Kuzemu, who watched the brightly burning front yard in a daze, began to squirm again after witnessing a spear hitting the wall right next to him and stone splinters hurling about. However, his body, which was completely bound by a rope, had less flexibility to move than a caterpillar. The rope came apart quite a bit when several spears pierced it, but at that time Kuzemu had already died to blood loss. One spear severed the rope with the tragic corpses hanging onto it by chance. The corpse, which bumped about as it hit the protuberances on the outer wall, fell into the burning front yard. “His fall has been confirmed. He is likely not alive anymore.” “Yea, I saw.” The conversation of the officers accompanying Nelgal was drowned out by the noise. The soldiers are able to fully savour a sense of accomplishment for punishing a treacherous retainer who tried to manipulate them for his own selfish desires. They were grateful towards Orsongrande’s side for conceding them the opportunity for that. However, the thoughts of a part of the generals are different. “... Does that mean that we’ve been told to get rid of him by ourselves in order to not leave behind records that a high official of Horant was killed by the hands of Orsongrande? I don’t know whether it was according to the counsel of that elf, but if you take her lightly because she “Sorry, I didn’t hear you properly.” The scandalous words were lost in the noise. When the soldier, who was next to him, asked again feeling that he failed to hear an order, he corrected himself after clearing his throat. “Nelgal-sama’s instruction is to charge as soon as the fire abates. Time is valuable, too. Begin extinguishing the fire with the magic soldiers who can use water magic. Have the infantry check the situation and act as guards of the magic soldiers. We will limit the fire’s range to the still remaining immortal soldiers.” “Acknowledged.” The magic soldiers, who moved back to the rear and were on standby, slowly advance towards the burning castle after receiving the order. With the water magic users in front, the other magic soldiers are made to follow as well just for caution’s sake. “Orsongrande’s forces will storm in from the sides and our Horant forces from the front, huh? However, what is the plan? There are no gates at the sides, but...” , a single general shakes off his idle thoughts. “Attack as soon as the fire fighting has finished! We came this far! We will show our true strength to the soldiers of Orsongrande.” The general showed a smile to the soldiers who answered with an uniform voice. No matter what, I won’t tell them that everything of this is just a decoy ☺☻☺ Inside the castle there were around soldiers of Horant’s Kuzemu camp left besides the immortal soldiers. Their duty is to carry out miscellaneous chores like setting up traps under the instructions of Gaap, who received training from Hifumi, or checking the situation of the opponents and traps after the enemy storms in, but that doesn’t mean that they are combat personnel. They are familiar with the structure of the castle as soldiers originally defending inside the castle. “Will it be alright if it burns this much?” The room on the second floor, which was made into a break room, was crowded. The brightly burning front yard was visible from that room which is located on the west side of the castle. “Probably it’s no problem. The castle’s main part hasn’t caught fire and something like the fire spreading won’t happen either, I guess.” “And the immortal soldiers? They were finished off easily.” Having received a standby order, except for those who left on patrol, they are bored and put their energy into chatting. For them this was also an important communication for the sake of distracting themselves from their worries. “The defence at the front was done in. Won’t the first floor be stormed any time now?” “Yea, if I remember correctly five people have to check the state of the traps on the first floor.” Five people, whose role had been decided beforehand, get up, take their tools and walk towards the corridor leading to the first floor. “If it goes smoothly, they might be able to kill a commanding officer or such.” “From where are you getting such confidence...?” Staying on standby while talking, they see off those leaving the room and the remaining soldiers stand up as well. “Well then, shall we prepare for the time when the enemy will reach the second floor after breaking through?” “... Hey, isn’t it fine if we don’t do it after all?” Looking at the arranged tools, one of the soldiers mutters. “Just give it up already. We have no other choice but to do what we were told to do.” A soldier, who carried the same tool, said “This is our fate.” “For real...?” A soldier of Orsongrande, who looked up the wall towering high over the surroundings on the east side of the castle dumbfoundedly, respected the soldiers of Fokalore who were climbing the four-meter-high wall swiftly while hanging onto kusarigama‘s with long ropes attached. A soldier of Fokalore who stood on top of the wall, looks down on the chosen soldier of Orsongrande below. “Leave the kusarigama as it is. It looks like they have already started to put out the fire. Let’s hurry.” Once he told them without delay, he jumped off the wall on the other side. All of the present soldiers of Fokalore climb up the same rope and jump down towards the other side one after the other. From there on it was this battle’s worst scene of carnage for the soldiers of Orsongrande. Different from the soldiers of Fokalore, who were at the most equipped with leather breastplate as lightweight armour, many of Orsongrande’s soldiers are wearing metal armours and helmets. It goes without saying, but those are slightly different in weight. “What a trifle!” There are also those who cling to the rope, but the majority falls without even holding on for half a minute. Giving up and removing their equipment, they arrive on top of the wall. Furthermore it took a full minutes until all of them mustered the courage to jump down from that height. Horant’s infantrymen, who rushed into the first floor after the fire fighting finished, entered an entrance hall where nothing has been placed apart from spaciousness. “Uwawa!?” While complaining about the pain, the soldiers fall over one after the other and faint in agony. Once the commanding officer, who entered late, looked properly, the surface of the entrance hall’s floor was covered by fish hooks with strings attached. It’s difficult to see the small fish hooks even in the bright entrance hall. A soldier, who wore a type of sandal footwear, sat down due to the pain of the hooks. Once he rolls around the one following behind tumbled after getting caught in that and suffered from the small hooks on his whole body. “Calm down! If you don’t collect yourself... Ack!” The commanding officer, who stepped over those rolling around on the ground, was hit by a small earthenware jar and a liquid got onto his shoulder. He staggered unintentionally. “W-What?” Once he looks on his shoulder, a liquid with an indescribable colour sticks to it. Ascertaining that it’s not an attack that will cause an injury, he feels slightly relieved and breathes in. “It stinks!” An irritating stench, similar to rotten eggs, assaults the commanding officer. The commanding officer, who inhaled it with all his might at point-blank range, writhes while on the verge of fainting. The surrounding soldiers also try to get away from him. However, the liquid which was successively thrown at the soldiers, and not only the commanding officer who stopped moving, changed the entrance into a hell of rotten smell in an instant. Getting entangled by the strings and hooks, they are enveloped by a stench to the degree of provoking their noses’ insides even if they stop breathing while receiving small injuries on their entire bodies. Quite a lot of soldiers are vomiting. “We’ve been told that this is training, thus it’s fine as their lives won’t be stolen!” That voice, which slowly mumbled this, was that of a guard who stood on top of a large stairway leading from the entrance hall to the second floor. The guard, who finished throwing the jars on hand, removes the cloth which he wore like a mask on his face, as it’s difficult to use his voice. “You suffered attacks after getting caught by traps! I won’t attack you any further since you are fellow countrymen, r-retreat, buueeeehhhhhh...” The guard, who threw jars together with him, looked at his condition and knit his eyebrows. “Why did you remove the cloth...?” The guard averted his eyes from his colleague, who acted recklessly, in a state similar to becoming teary eyed across his mask. It was apparently because he would be lured in if he looked directly at him. “We lost, eh...?” The commanding officer muttered while frantically suppressing the feeling of something welling up. “However, a defeat in this place is not a particular problem.” They are no more than a diversion to the bitter end. Gaining control of the castle is a fake objective. It’s nothing but causing the illusion that the soldiers of Horant and Orsongrande invaded the castle. Of course, if he talked about his true feelings, he wanted to get some kind of military gains though. “Nelgal-sama, may the fortune of war...” Spinning words of a prayer, the commanding officer quietly closed his eyes and barfed. “This way is the entrance to a hidden passage. Originally it has been decided that it can only be used by royalty and their chamberlains and only is a state of emergency, but...” (Nelgal) Nelgal was at a stone monument located inside thickly growing trees just behind the castle where the hidden passage, connecting inside the castle, lies. Standing in front of the stone monument, Nelgal turns around and confirms his fellow party members. Two guarding soldiers of Horant, Imeraria, Sabnak, Vaiya, Alyssa and Puuse are accompanying him. “For people from another country to pass through here... and moreover for an elf to be able to come to our castle, that’s a first.” (Nelgal) Imeraria nods towards Nelgal who talks in order to gloss over his tension. “It’s a honour. ... Nelgal-sama, let’s hurry. We don’t have overly much time.” (Imeraria) From far away, on the other side of the castle, the war cries of Horant’s soldiers charging in can be heard. Conversely, not a single voice can be heard from the soldiers of Orsongrande who should be invading from the east side. “Alyssa-san, I left the means of invasion to you who went scouting, but is it really alright?” (Imeraria) “It’s fine, it’s fine. I told them to do it in a simple manner.” (Alyssa) Imeraria was uneasy about Alyssa who urged on with “Rather than that, let’s go quickly,” but she switched her feelings with “Then let’s go.” (Imeraria) “Yes, I want to put an end to it before victims appear among the soldiers.” (Nelgal) Once he knocked down a small stone part which was lodged into the stone monument like a wedge, Nelgal pressed against the stone monument’s main body with his shoulder putting quite a bit of strength into it. Doing that, the stone monument slowly slides on top of its pedestal. And a stairway became exposed. “There are no special traps in this passage. It’s a straight path. Please be careful since it has a width allowing at most two people passing through it side by side.” (Nelgal) The soldiers of Horant head in first and Nelgal follows them. After Vaiya, Imeraria and Puuse went in, then Sabnak and after him Alyssa. The inside is dark. The two in the lead and the two knights rely on the light of the magic tools made by Horant which they are holding. The passage, which continues endlessly ahead without even any decorations on the stone floor, walls and ceiling, stirs up one’s anxiety. However, the ascending stairs, which are faintly visible on the other side of the lights, were able to bestow hope albeit just a bit. “It’s a bit dark...” “Nelgal-sama.” (Imeraria) Imeraria called out to Nelgal who walked slowly. “Let’s run. Time is precious.” (Imeraria) “However, to make you run, Imeraria-sama...” “It’s unrelated what person I might be.” (Imeraria) Imeraria in her rider’s suit grasps the lash which she brought along after being trouble with leaving it in her house-room. Social status and race might be different, but all people are equal . I don’t want to become a fool who ignores our objective using the excuse of gender and social status at a time when we should run.” (Imeraria) “... Got it, you two, let’s raise the pace. It’s fine to not care about the rear since it’s a straight path.” (Nelgal) “Ha!” The soldiers of Horant begin to run and everyone follows. “Ha! Ha! I will, definitely, surprise Hifumi, thu-!?” (Imeraria) “If you talk while running, you will end up biting your tongue, you know?” (Alyssa) Imeraria, who runs while being out of breath, apparently ended up biting her tongue with all her strength. Alyssa calls out to Imeraria, who is breathing through her nose with a *fuufuu* while holding her mouth, with a calm face. Even Imeraria is well aware that their basic stamina values are completely different, but she still gets very angry. She wanted to make just one complaint, but as her tongue hurt more than she imagined, she couldn’t use her voice. “Pupupu...” (Sabnak) Seeing Imeraria glaring at Alyssa with teary eyes, Sabnak spontaneously bursts into laughter. Let’s hit him with the lash once more once we get out of the passage

Once Imeraria finished reading the delivered report, she sat down on a nearby chair. “I-Imeraria-sama!?” (Maid) She raised her hand to rein in the maid who rushed over from the side, she was standing at the ready, in a panic. “I’m alright. I only felt a bit tired.” (Imeraria) With a frail smile she ordered the prime minister to be summoned and read over the report once again. “Something like forming a treaty between a nation and noble’s territory... This is something like slighting our country. Originally this would probably make him a target of disciplinary actions, but...” (Imeraria) If I consider the citizens as a whole, for them it will mean the opportunity to obtain cheap magic tools on top of him having defeated the enemy nation. It’s very likely they won’t comprehend what’s wrong with that Faster than she expected, there was knocking on the door to her office. “Enter.” (Imeraria) “As you have ordered, I have come.” (Adol) “Though I think you’ve heard about it, it’s about Horant’s matter.” (Imeraria) Prime Minister Adol, having obtained Imeraria’s permission to stand at ease, told her that the report has reached him as well. Imeraria nods. “I also considered whether we should punish Earl Tohno, but realistically it’s probably impossible. Assuming we do something reckless, Fokalore might oppose Orsongrande... no, there might also be a not so small number of nobles supporting Hifumi-sama. The situation is that all the former Vichy territories have been annexed by Fokalore.” (Imeraria) “I’m also agreeing with Imeraria-sama’s view.” (Adol) “Then, it’s fine to carefully watch the situation?” (Imeraria) “I considered whether this isn’t a good opportunity.” (Adol) As Imeraria asked “Good opportunity?”, Adol excused himself for being presumptuous. “It’s the long-awaited chance to hold Imeraria-sama’s coronation ceremony while at the same time celebrating Earl Tohno’s military gains. The opposing nobles won’t be able to meddle at a moment’s notice, if Earl Tohno is close by.” (Adol) Imeraria decided to agree with this suggestion of the prime minister as good idea, but once she carefully considered Hifumi’s character, she noticed a point that should cause apprehensions. “Won’t this turn into a situation of “being used” which he hates the most?” (Imeraria) “It’s probably necessary to explain it in advance and get his consent. If we also prepare something to please Earl Tohno, it will be even better.” (Adol) Due to Adol answering pridefully, Imeraria lowered her eyebrows. “What in the world are you planning? I already don’t want to lose anyone else thanks to thoughtlessness, however...” (Imeraria) “You may be relieved. In my humble opinion it will be alright as long as we discuss about a proper request for Earl Tohno. To put it simple, he will participate by himself without knowing that he is being used in a disagreeable way. It will be fine if we just directly request it from him sincerely.” (Adol) “Because it’s just at the right time where we are also asking him to coach the soldiers of the national army”, Adol said. “If you consider him with the intention to become hostile against him, he is indeed a terrifying opponent, but if you rely on him as an ally, there won’t be anyone more reliable either.” (Adol) Imeraria closed her eyes to think about Adol’s words. “... Understood. We will use your plan, prime minister. However, I will be the one to directly talk with Hifumi-sama about the request. Please tell the knight order to invite Hifumi to this place once he enters the capital.” (Imeraria) Adol, who hang his head deeply, got teary eyes. “And, I congratulate Imeraria-sama from the bottom of my heart for the succession of the throne.” (Adol) Even though Imeraria realises his trembling voice, she shows a whiff of a smile. “In one way or another it caused you to worry, eh? Please support me from now on as well, okay?” (Imeraria) For a short while Adol wasn’t able to raise his face. ☺☻☺ Hifumi, who swiftly finished up this and that in Horant, mounted the horse, he had Suprangel concede to him, and already came back as far as the national border of Orsongrande to Horant. He left the territorial army heading towards Fokalore with the words “It’s fine if you return while also properly doing some sightseeing.” At first he freely travelled on the highway, but as the amount of people moving on the highway increased the closer he got to Orsongrande, he reluctantly got stuck with travelling besides the highway where it wasn’t paved. “What happened?” (Hifumi) Almost the entire flow of people advancing on the highway is heading in the direction of Orsongrande, just like Hifumi. Using carriages and wagons, there are many people moving together with their entire families visible. Sporadically he catches sight of merchant-like people who embarked on carriages loaded with some goods. “Say, the highway is awfully crowded. Did something happen?” (Hifumi)magic He called out to a merchant riding on a carriage close-by with the only reason for his choice being the proximity in the height of his view. “Ah, there is some very grave battle going on in the royal castle of Horant. I heard many soldiers have died. Since there seems to be a rich territory accepting anyone in Orsongrande, everyone is aiming to go there.” (Merchant) Hifumi arrives at the called-out merchant even though there are many people moving around them. He is selling food and daily necessities to the masses along the road. “Given that I’m selling my goods by moving within Horant, the right business opportunity popped up. That’s the kind of guy I am.” (Merchant) As the density of people increases the closer it is to the border, it might be profitable for business. “I see. Thanks.” (Hifumi) Throwing a gold coin to the merchant, Hifumi headed on. Advancing on the highway for another two hours, there is an excessive congestion of carriages right before the border. Because there is the danger of losing carriages or wagons if proceeding off the pavement, everyone is waiting to go ahead with a resigned expression. “Oh, this is?” (Hifumi) Albeit a small amount, the scent of blood came drifting from further ahead. Instinctively the corners of Hifumi’s mouth rise. While advancing in a hurry offside the highway, he adjusts the location of his katana hanging at his waist. Soon the source of the congestion came in sight. “Line up! Stand in a row!” A man, wearing the equipment of a common soldier from Horant, is raising his voice quite loudly. Several other people are lined up. It seems he is doing an inspection or interrogation of them one by one. A single soldier blocked the way of Hifumi approaching on top of the horse. “Don’t you have a strange appearance. Tell me your reason for coming here.” (Soldier) “Before that, listen, when I passed through here a few days ago a lot like you wasn’t here, but what the hell are you doing?” (Hifumi) Clicking his tongue, the soldier drew his sword. It causes a commotion among the commoners, who were in the vicinity. Some also take a distance. “Answer the question without nitpicking!” (Soldier) Ignoring the yelling soldier, Hifumi watched the exchange of the group at the front. He discovered the soldier receiving money from the people there. “Toll... eh?” (Hifumi) “That’s right! You have to pay one silver coin if you want to pass here!” (Soldier) Due to the soldier’s words, who doesn’t even try to hide it anymore, Hifumi pointed at a single woman with her children. “Hey, you. Listen to me for just a minute.” (Hifumi) “Y-Yes.” (Woman) “Is there a system of giving charity to dumb soldiers in this country?” (Hifumi) “Eh? Umm, that...” (Woman) While alternating her look between the soldier and Hifumi, the woman is puzzled what kind of answer would be good. The soldier is scary, but it seems Hifumi’s eyes are scary as well. “You! Are you taking me for a fool!?” (Soldier) Taking a step forward with his left foot in rage, he raised his sword overhead, but the soldier’s movement suddenly stopped. The katana, drawn and held with the left hand in a backhand grip, is piercing the soldier’s left eye. “Didn’t I tell you? A dumb soldier.” (Hifumi) While saying “You should listen more closely to what people tell you”, the eyeball flies off due to Hifumi pulling out the katana and shaking the blood off it. At the same time as the dead soldier fell, screams rose from the surroundings. “Shut up!” (Hifumi) Due to Hifumi’s roar, the people, who tried to escape, stopped their feet as well. The other soldiers came rushing over as well. From the fact that all of them are wearing a similar-looking leather armour, Hifumi understands that apparently are soldiers of Horant. A single one among them stepped forward and looked at the collapsed soldier. “... What the heck is this about?” (Soldier) “I killed him because he came slashing at me with his drawn sword.” (Hifumi) He is holding the drawn katana in his right hand. “I will ask once again, what are you doing? Though, judging by appearance, it seems there are two choices to pay money to pass through or otherwise be sent away.” (Hifumi) “We are prohibiting the travel that hasn’t been approved by either the king or a feudal lord. Only those paying the price to obtain permission can go on!” (Soldier) Throwing out his chest as if trying to daunt him, the soldier stares at Hifumi atop his horse. In a casual manner he puts his hand on the sword at his waist. “Permission, eeh... ?” (Hifumi) Hifumi surveyed the uneasy looking commoners in a circle. “However, doesn’t it seem like there isn’t any guy handing over such official papers? In short, I wonder if it’s a story of giving a bribe? Do it more boldly.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who laughed scornfully without warning, continues further on, “So, even setting those guys aside, are you going to take money from me as well?” (Hifumi) “Tsk. Bastard, tell me your name and aim! Whether you pass through depends on the amount of money.” (Soldier) “If you are a citizen of Horant, it is only natural to repay us for working for the sake of the country.” Continuing to listen to the words of the soldier, Hifumi ended up being unable to contain a loud laughter. “Ahahahaha! What bad luck! I’m not a citizen of Horant.” (Hifumi) He took out the traffic permit signed by Imeraria from his pocket. “I’m a noble of Orsongrande. Since I want to return to my territory, hurry up and open the way.” (Hifumi) The soldier, who took a long hard look at the document, opened the path while shivering in anger or fluster. Just as he reached a position, where he was surrounded by the soldier, Hifumi stopped his horse and turned his sight towards the people, who were on the highway. “Ah, which reminds me, I’m one of the feudal lords as well. The place is known as Tohno territory which has the city Fokalore as its core, but...” (Hifumi) The people, who heard the name Fokalore of the Tohno territory, began to suddenly get noisy. If the story of the merchant was true, they were headed towards that place. “If you are going there, you will be welcome. As Earl Hifumi Tohno, a noble affiliated with Orsongrande, I’m approving your passage as applicants. Of course, free of charge.” (Hifumi) The people almost raised their voices in joy due to Hifumi, who unexpectedly proposed this matter on his own accord, however a soldier was the first to raise his voice. “Don’t screw around! What are you pulling here as noble of a foreign country!?” (Soldier) “However, didn’t you say any noble and any feudal lord before?” (Hifumi) Though it is completely a sophism, it will be perfectly fitting if the goal is to provoke them “All of you, draw your swords! This guy is a criminal who only calls himself a noble!” (Soldier) Upon those words every soldier present drew their sword. “You drew them, eh?” (Hifumi) Looking around by turning in a circle, Hifumi made sure that all soldiers set up their swords and muttered a single question. Promptly jumping off the horse, he bisects a single soldier without hesitation. While standing up, he wards off another’s sword to the side and slices him with a reverse hassou stance. As the encirclement was broken by two soldiers having collapsed, he let the horse get away. “Hey, if you draw, you have to slash. If you hold your weapons, you have to kill.” (Hifumi) “Gugugu... get him!” (Soldier) The soldier, with a deep red face, chose to have them, including himself as well, slash at Hifumi at the same time, but the outcome was something tragic. Some have their heads sent flying, some are dumbfounded at having their bellies sliced and are staring at the sight of their own organs spilling out and some have fainted in agony due to losing their limbs... The last remaining soldier came assaulting with his sword in total desperation, however having him drop the sword by striking its middle part with the left hand, Hifumi makes a full revolution holding the katana and cuts off the lower part of the soldier’s right arm. “Aguu...” (Soldier) While shedding large quantities of blood from his arms, the fallen soldier before long dies of blood loss. The people, who saw the entire spectacle unfold, are looking at Hifumi with completely frightened facial expressions. At the time he put his katana back into its scabbard after wiping it with a paper, the soldier, who had his arm loped off, died. “Because my area’s territorial soldiers will come here a few days later, it’s fine for you talk to them if you feel like it. Rather than those fellows, they will treat you properly, probably.” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who found the horse that had come back, ran up to the horse in joy and gently brushed it. Once he nimbly mounted it, he quickly went his way. While the people, ending up not having to pay any money, don’t comprehend what has just happened, they pull themselves together and continue walking. ☺☻☺ “Am I fated to be chased by work no matter where I go... ?” (Sabnak) If it was to be like this, it would have been alright to rest at the place of brother-in-law for a bit longer At the same time as Sabnak returned to the capital, an official ceremony was held for the first founding of the Royal Knight Order due to Imeraria’s coronation. The captain was Sabnak and the vice-captain was Vaiya. Several people were chosen from each, the Second and Third Knight Order. Consolidating all the remaining knights, those were reshuffled into an organisation that was merely called knight order. The former captain of the Third Knight Order, Lotomago, was appointed as its captain and there were three vice-captains including Midas. There is no hierarchical relationship between the two knight orders. The main duty of the Royal Knight Order is the protection of the royalty as well as the castle. The knight order leads the army to maintain the public order and for military activities. Having been appointed in a hurry, Sabnak was dressed in the new order’s uniform that was handed to him by Imeraria herself. The first assigned task for him is to draft and practise the security protocol of the coming coronation ceremony. It was major task. “Why is there so much work?” (Sabnak) Having dispatched Phyrinion to the Fokalore territory as my replacement, I feel relieved in my heart, but being responsible for that side might have been better if it’s like this At any rate, since it is a fresh unit that has been formed just recently, let alone cooperation, the order’s members just finished meeting their comrades. No matter how much Imeraria is the only protection subject, I can’t help but feel there will security holes in this wide royal castle and its surroundings even if I wrack my brain devising a plan. “Excuse me.” (Maid) The one to enter the office was the new maid, who was assigned to Sabnak. “A letter has arrived from Royal Knight Order Vice-Captain Vaiya.” (Maid) “Ah, thanks.” (Sabnak) The given letter was a rolled up parchment having a thorough wax seal. “What!? Such exaggeration...” (Sabnak) While tearing off the wax and reading the contents, Sabnak spilled tears. The letter from Vaiya states that while waiting for Hifumi in Fokalore following Imeraria’s instruction, there are requests from other fiefs flooding in to train their soldiers and educate their civil officials. He lightly and in a comprehensible way writes that even the former Vichy territories are in the process of switching over to the same political system as Fokalore. At the end he wrote to report about the “Engagement to Phyrinion-san” to report about it to his superior officer, Sabnak. “What the hell is this? Though I’m not able to enjoy food and women as I’m busily running about...” (Sabnak) “Captain-sama.” (Maid) “Isn’t this way of calling me weird? So, what is it?” (Sabnak) As he asks while holding a handkerchief to his eyes, the maid says expressionlessly, “If you like, you can join me for dinner?” (Maid) “... Won’t you stop it, if it’s out of pity?” (Sabnak) “No, it isn’t.” (Maid) , he shook his head. “I just wondered whether this was a chance to gain money and power by marrying a rich and powerful man.” (Maid) Sabnak cried.

At the time Imeraria, who was accompanied by fifteen knights including Sabnak and the same number of guards led by Earl Biron, arrived at a spot from where the border could be seen, the morning sun already guaranteed a clear visibility. Even while inhaling the fresh, chilly morning air within the thickets off the highway, Imeraria dons an expression of dissatisfaction. “Why would it be wrong if I didn’t wear this thing?” (Imeraria) Wrapped up in a cloth that had grass and leaves attached to it, Imeraria, who is facing the front while pinching the cloth with her thin fingers, turned a criticizing look towards Sabnak who is next to her in the same attire. “Please endure it. These are for the sake of making it difficult for our opponents to find us. Rather than that, please look at that.” (Sabnak) Ahead, where Sabnak pointed at, there were soldiers walking around busily in the vicinity of Orsongrande’s military station and barracks in front of the border and there were also citizens, who were carrying out some task while mingling with the soldiers, visible there. “I wonder what they are doing?” (Imeraria) “I fear that it’s likely that after confiscating the facilities on our side, they are having carpenters and such remodel them.” (Biron) Biron answers calmly. It’s a world where such things such as lenses don’t exist as the civilization is inexperienced in processing glass, but there’s the method of easily looking at a distant place with a plain pipe. Even the one Biron is using was a plain pipe made out of wood, however it was still better than having nothing. Imeraria, who peered into the pipe she was handed, confirms the equipment of the soldiers located in the area of the barracks and judges that there aren’t any magicians. “It doesn’t seem like they are boasting a considerable amount of people. If it’s just the soldiers, there’s around of them, isn’t there?” (Imeraria) “Yes, that’s right if you just count those on this side ((of the border)).” (Sabnak) Sabnak, who is peering through both his hands which he has arranged in a tubular shape, said “the problem are the soldiers on the other side.” “The parts which can be seen from here; they don’t seem to be unusual devices. Possibly they might construct them from now on though. If they are remodelling like mentioned by Brother-in-law... Earl Biron, there’s also the possibility of them bringing in some devices.” (Sabnak) “If it’s a large-scale magic device to the degree of using an entire building, it will become a big problem. Among the ancient magic, which hasn’t been classified yet, there are also spells for large-scaled annihilation, I’ve heard. If Horant has discovered and developed something identical...” (Biron) Imeraria ponders while fixedly staring at the border. I wonder what Hifumi would do in such situation? (I have a feeling that he would attack them from the front...) While smiling wryly within her mind, she remembers something she was told before. “Sabnak-san, Earl Biron, please set up a system of continuous observation of the vicinity of the border by cooperating with each other. Inform me at once if there are any changes. And...” (Imeraria)magic She hesitated whether to give them the order or not, however, since she understood that she had to do so, she squeezed out her voice by putting strength into her stomach ((persuading herself)) that it was her task to obtain results by moving people. “Please carry out reconnaissance by closing in on the border as far as possible during the night. If possible, confirm even the soldiers on the other side ((of the border)).” (Imeraria) This being a dangerous mission, their lives won’t be guaranteed if they are found. Even so, it’s still better than putting the country at risk. It will be unbearable if I don’t think about it in such way. “Your Majesty.” (Biron) Biron smiled while showing his white teeth through a gap in the cloth covering him. “The soldiers have been training for the sake of not bringing your determination to naught.” (Biron) “That’s right. If you think that it’s necessary, you should do it steadily. Even I believe that that order is to be expected. Rather, it was an order that should be given by me.” (Sabnak) “Please leave everything to us”, being told that from both sides, Imeraria’s heart became lighter albeit only a bit. Retreating slowly, Sabnak and Biron issue instructions to their respective soldiers. Taking off the cloth used for camouflage that covered her, Imeraria brushed off the grasses which clung to her riding habit. “By the way, this slightly, well... unique attire is whose idea?” (Imeraria) The soldiers exchanged glances due to the question of Imeraria who returned the cloth to a soldier. They apparently didn’t want to believe that Imeraria isn’t aware at all. “Umm... it was taught to us by the soldiers from Earl Tohno’s territory. Since it’s easy to observe while being difficult to be spotted from a distance, they said.” “... Is that so?” (Imeraria) Even while wavering whether she should be scared or delighted due to Hifumi’s education being thorough beyond her imagination, Imeraria had reached the point of being able to consider it quite calmly. “Now I’m curious. Were you taught something else by Hifumi-sama’s soldiers?” (Imeraria) “Yes. From individual to group combat, attacking an encampment and in reverse, the methods of defending one, also...” The soldier, who received a direct question from his queen, eagerly recalls the training and lists its contents even while being stiff due to nervousness. Among those there was something that bothers Imeraria. “... Have those methods been taught in each territory by other instruction units?” (Imeraria) “It’s likely just as you said? There existed something like a textbook.” “I see. Thank you.” (Imeraria) “N-No! I’m sorry!” The soldier, who was thanked personally by the queen, retreated holding the cloth, he received, dearly while being ridiculed by his comrades for his stiff, overly ceremonious movements. “That means that it’s very likely for Horant’s side to also know the same methods...” (Imeraria) “Troublesome seeds have been sown”, Imeraria grieved. There was also the notion of asking Hifumi for help in the composed part of her mind, but she wasn’t able to consider that as being correct no matter what. ☺☻☺ “... What shall we do?” (Puuse) “I didn’t consider it this far ahead, but... is it pointless to start a conversation?” (Viine) Seeing the figure of the worried Puuse, the one-eared rabbit, Viine, answered frankly. The girls, who left the wastelands after experiencing a number of long days, hesitated how to get in contact in front of the entrance to the highway leading to the city of humans that could be seen at last. The girls didn’t know, but they were right next to a small town located en route the highway and positioned around the half point between Fokalore and Arosel. “It’s because we are of the beastmen race. Just showing our faces, it wouldn’t be odd for us getting attacked either ~ssu.” (Gengu) “This isn’t a situation to laugh about.” (Malfas) Due to Gengu scratching his head while say “Well, I give up”, Malfas shakes his head. “Puuse-san, let’s go to have a talk at least. Even if we consider various things in this place, it won’t change anything.” (Viine) “... That’s so, isn’t it? Got it.” (Puuse) While teasing her with a “Maidens in love are powerful”, Puuse told Gengu and the others to run away immediately since she herself and Viine will restraint ((the attackers)) with magic if push comes to shove. “Understood ~ssu. Say, let’s try having a talk with them at least just like always said by Reni-san.” (Gengu) “B-Beastmen!?” “Moreover, that’s not a human but an elf? It’s the first time I’ve seen one!” The guarding soldiers became agitated due to the group of beastmen and elves appearing all of a sudden. Originally it’s a situation where they should call for reinforcements in a hurry, but the soldiers, who ended up forgetting even that due to the overly unexpected circumstances, didn’t do anything but staring at the beastmen who were steadily getting closer. “Umm... is it alright?” (Puuse) The one who addressed them is Puuse. It was decided for her to talk first as her appearance, except the ears, is the closest to humans. “Y-Yes!” The soldier, who was addressed, gives an answer with an unintentionally excited voice due to her well-featured appearance unique to elves once he sees her from close-by. “We came from a city that is located on the other side of the wastelands. As it’s the first time for us to have come here after all, I’d like you to instruct us.” (Puuse) Puuse, who timidly talks to the soldier, who is taller than her, with upturned eyes, might be regarded as cute ojou-sama from somewhere if met for the first time. “Umm...” Even while the soldier’s heartbeat accelerates with a throbbing sound, he looks at the beastmen waiting behind Puuse. The dog beastman is scary as he seems to be really strong, but the others are a rabbitwoman, who has no more than one ear for some reason, and a tiger beastman, though that one can’t be seen as anything but a child. “They are my companions. We are travelling in order to meet a certain person.” (Puuse) “A certain person, you say?” “It will be a help if you know him”, she says as preface. “It’s a man called Hifumi-san. He has black hair and is a bit unusual.” (Puuse) She doesn’t mention what’s unusual. “Hifumi? Hifumi... aah!” Once he looks at his colleague next to him after raising his voice, that one’s eyes are likewise opened widely and form a perfect circle. “I-Isn’t that Lord-sama!?” “There’s no mistake... what to do... a-anyway, have them come to the guard office.” “Moron!” The guard office, they are using, isn’t prepared for something like visitors at all as you can’t say that they are attentive to cleaning by any standard, just like it’s the case with many all-male households. To a certain extent there is a small table and chairs for the sake of listening to the story of the suspicious people they brought in. The soldier, who raised an angry voice, tells Puuse 「Please wait for a minute」 with a frivolous smile and moves to a slightly separate place while pulling an arm of his colleague. “Why is it no good?” “Think properly. There’s such a pretty woman. Perhaps Lord-sama might have found her in the wastelands.” “Huh?” Due to the soldiers rising his pinky while saying that, the face of his colleague became pale. “Try imagining Lord-sama ((finding out)) us having her enter such cramped guard office. We will be literally changed into being just heads.” “T-Then, what shall we do...?” “At any rate, have them wait. I will hurry to notify the captain.” Saying that, he dashes away with all his strength and once the soldier delivers the report to the person in charge, even the person, who was informed, stands up unintentionally and isn’t able to do anything, at least in his own position. Or rather, he doesn’t want to make such decision either. “Escort them to Fokalore swiftly... no, politely, pay attention to being courteous, escort them while paying meticulous attention!” His order was already close to being a scream. ☺☻☺ Hifumi suddenly pondered while killing the bandits. “A large-scaled war; practically there hasn’t been one in this world, has there?” (Hifumi) “Gyaaaa... r-release me!” The voice of a bandit, who is lying face down while his wrists are immobilized under Hifumi’s feet, is audible. “Talking about large-scale, I wonder what’s the extent?” (Origa) While hitting the head of another bandit with her iron-ribbed fan, Origa turned a smile towards Hifumi. “Let’s see. For example military forces of . or 200.000 clashing against each other. It’s a battle where several 10.000 of people will be killed.” (Hifumi) The bandit, whose shoulder joints were disconnected by the momentum of Hifumi turning around, had his neck stepped on and broken at the time he raised a loud scream. “There wasn’t such thing? Even if you assemble all military forces of Orsongrande, it likely won’t go past 50.000.” (Origa) “I see. The general battle was in the form of the troops clashing with each other on a plain. Even if you consider the practical use, that is the limit, huh?” (Hifumi) “That’s right. There’s the method of managing it by deciding the soldier’s roles and and organization accurately, but that didn’t exist before your esteemed suggestion, Hifumi-sama. At most they classified ((the troops)) by magicians or infantry.” (Origa) Avoiding the sword swung down by the next bandit, Hifumi hits them lightly with his fist and breaks their nose. “Bugyaa!” The left hand, which the bandit raised to hold his nose, was caught by Hifumi, its wrist was twisted and then broken. “What is?” (Origa) Origa’s wind magic severs the head of a bandit, who tried to escape, from behind. “Even at the time of the war with Vichy and when we did sham battles with others, there were many fellows who would leap into enemy territory without any kind of hesitation.” Origa slipped a chuckle due to his statement which was completely blind to his own shortcomings in the situation he was currently in. “It will be fine if everyone is as strong as you, Hifumi-sama, but... I was also like that before, but everyone has the opinion that the power of their physical strength and weapons is the most important.” (Origa) “However, this will change in the future”, Origa killed yet another with wind magic. During that time Hifumi broke the necks of two bandits. “Tools will be introduced by wars. Even magic won’t be simply for attacking but will be used for magic tools and magic potions, too. Traps will become popular, defences will also vanish since the soldiers will go out to fight. There’s many, many ways. For the attacking side as well as the defending side the necessity to consider it plentifully will appear.” (Hifumi) With all the bandits besides them dead, the two are standing together in front of the cave which has been made into their hiding place by the bandits. Origa affixes her iron-ribbed fan to her waist and searches the inside for people with magic. “It’s fine if we can observe that in the battle with the current Horant.” “At least Alyssa will do it properly.” “The problems are Horant and Imeraria, huh?” Origa, who finished the investigation of the interior, takes the iron-ribbed fan into her hand once again. “It seems Imeraria-sama is accompanied by Sabnak-san. Horant was also sufficiently trained by your soldiers, Hifumi-sama. Besides, Horant also has magic and magic tools. ... There’s 16 people inside. Three among them can’t move. They appear to be women. They still seem to be breathing.” (Origa) She didn’t say anything further as both of them understand why those women are within a cave where there’s bandits. “There’s isn’t any particular sensation of something unusual.” (Origa) “Then, shall we go? I leave the women to you.” (Hifumi) “Understood.” (Origa) Origa follows behind Hifumi, who steadily enters unarmed with his katana affixed to his waist, while preparing her iron-ribbed fan. “If.” (Hifumi) Origa doesn’t fail to hear Hifumi muttering a single word. “If the world was involved by fighting all at once.” (Hifumi) “Yes.” (Origa) “Geographically the capital might turn into the main battlefield. If it turns into a war of humans versus demi-humans, let’s see... the place with the highest probability ((to become the main battlefield)) is my territory, huh?” (Hifumi) Hifumi, who crushed both eyes of a bandit with the thumbs of both his hands in passing, killed him by slapping the bandit’s back of the head against the wall of rock just like that. “The demons will come to kill me. If she proceeds matters cleverly, Imeraria will likely do that as well. I wonder how about the beastmen. They might try to not get involved overly much. If I’m in a state of being surrounded, even Vichy’s neighbourhood might come attacking again.” (Hifumi) “My goodness, that’s an enjoyable future outlook.” (Origa) Hifumi, who kicked away the corpse into a corner of the passage, mutters “Be that as it may.” “The feudal army still hasn’t arrived?” (Hifumi) “They are also your soldiers, Hifumi-sama. Undoubtedly they will catch up right away.” (Origa) Two days later Fokalore’s territorial soldiers caught up with an abnormal quickness for the marching speed of an army, but at that time the bandits and ferocious monsters, which were in the vicinity of the city, had been completely disposed of.