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Shikkaku Mon no Saikyou Kenja Chapter 257


Chapter 257 Rummages Around

 

"Guh..."

The demon who's had a part of its wing damaged slows down.
Looks like it's still trying to gain speed, but a demon cannot displays their mobility when the magic circuits in their wings aren't in perfect condition.

I unleash the main magic for this battle at that demon.

--『Magic Spear』.
It's a magic that simply has a high penetration power formed by high quality mana.

"GUAAAAAAAAAA!!"

The [Magic Spear] pierced through the demon's body.

Disqualified Crest is the strongest crest as long as you can take care of its range problems.
Higher quality mana from experience points and reinforced magic circuits from training.
Put these two together and you can even pierce through a high-ranking demon's body.

...I need about five of these spears to defeat one demon huh.
While thinking that I jump back.

A moment later, A high level attack magic rained down the spot I was in.

You invite enemy's assaults if you just keep attacking in one spot without moving.
In terms of pure magical firepower and physical prowess, the demons are still above me like usual.

It's battle experience and techniques where I surpass them.
In order to make use of those advantages to their fullest, I need to run around the battlefield and refrain from challenging them head on with brute forces.

Besides--I'm not the only one throwing chaos into the battlefield.

"Dammit, annoying fly!"

A demon who was going to go after me cursed out in irritation.
Alma's magic jamming arrow struck the demon when it was about to cast an attack magic at the spot I was heading to, stopping its casting.

I didn't teach Alma and Ruli only about simple augment and attack magic.

Comprehend the flow of battle and wisely choose an attack that will turn the battle in our favor.
I let the two fight demons in the past in order to foster the necessary discretion.

『Next one is ordinary attack magic!』

『Gotcha!』

They just didn't have the powers to make the best use of it.
But it's different now.

Ruli can immediately discern which augment magic to use and quickly perform the augmentation.
Since she's got the magic circles she uses by memory, it may be less flexible than composing them on the spot... Nevertheless, it's more than good enough to change the tide of battle.

Just by hearing what kind of magic Ruli will augment next, Alma immediately perceives where she should shoot and then accurately hits the enemy.
This is only possible once she's capable of observing the entire battlefield on top of her targets and which enchant magic to use.

"I'll take care of that side first!"

"Ou!"

The demons must have judged that they're at a disadvantage fighting both sides at the same time.
One of the demons ignored me and rushed toward the room where Ruli and Alma were.

That's when I give instructions to Iris.

Iris hasn't participated in the battle so far, but that's not because she's slacking off.
She's simply holding her position in order to reliably carry out her role.

"Iris!"
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
"Yes!"

Iris replied shortly, put herself at the spot where the door was--and swung her right leg downward with all her strength.
The ground broke apart, Iris's right leg sunk into it.
Looks like she's attaching her right leg in the floor to prevent getting blown away.

--And then Iris thrust her spear the shoulder of the demon who was aiming for Ruli and Alma.

"Ga..."

The demon got blown a few meter back in the air.
Its shoulder has been completely pulverized.

"GAAAAAAAAAA!"

"What power... Is she even human?"

The demon must have thought that the spear would bounce off its body due to the vast gap of strength between humans and demons.
But unfortunately for it, Iris is the dark dragon.

Even in her human form, her strength is overwhelming.

"I won't let you get past me!"

Ignoring the demon, Iris readied her spear and made a declaration.
All routes to pass through the door are completely within the range of the huge spear in her hand.

As long as Iris is standing before the door, no demon would get to Ruli and Alma.
But even demons would have a hard time trying to drive away Iris from her position.

--The door's watchdog.
That's Iris's role in this battle.

Flying right above Iris, one of Alma's arrows struck a demon.
Alma can unilaterally attack the demons so long as Iris is protecting the door.






Previous Chapter

Shikkaku Mon no Saikyou Kenja Chapter 256


Chapter 256 Controls the Flow of Battle

 

...Alma has been using this [Wired Homing Enchant] magic for some time, but the previous Alma couldn't have possibly hit a demon's heart instantly killing it.
Her arrow enchant, like its piercing power and such must have seen a remarkable boost due to her improved mana control and quality.

"Killing a demon in one shot... Alma, you're incredible!"

"No no, what incredible is the arrow you made Ruli!"

Of course Ruli who created the arrow Alma shot has become incomparably stronger than she was two months ago as well.

Arrows that Ruli make can probably defeat monsters just by having those thrown at the monsters.
It's a proof of just how powerful the magic Ruli put in those arrows.

"...I didn't get to do anything!"

Iris shouted while still in her door-kicking posture.
The battle ended in an instant after all...

『Doesn't seem like it will go as smooth with the next room.』

I look at the door in the back.
There are five high ranking demons, though not at Zaridias's level.

The first room was probably just to test our strength.

The real thing begins in the next room.
Against them, the we from two months ago probably would have been demolished in less than 10 minutes except Iris.
Iris could probably escape in her dragon form if she were lucky, though more likely not.

But the us now can win.
I'm confident in that assertion.

...There's actually another reason for my confidence here.

『Alright, let's press ahead! ...Our next enemy are dangerous. Keep that in mind!』

『Yes!』

Iris kicked the next door after that conversation.

"So you're the man who killed Zaridias!"

"Don't think the same trick would work on us!"

I lead the way like earlier but this time all five demons ready their sword and lunge forward at the same time.
Their timing is perfect. No way to systematically crush them one by one.

That said, receiving their attack frontally would turn this fight into a protracted battle.
I could protect my body if I just defend here, however, I'd be giving up the initiative to the enemy.

Thinking that, I slow down for an instant--and make a sudden acceleration to pass by the demons in front of me.
Immediately following, an explosion occurred behind the spot I was on.
The demons must have anticipated that I would retreat and prepared an explosion magic right behind where I was.

--Humans would instinctively retreat when faced against an incoming enemy.
Thus, most cases would have people fall back when they thought they couldn't take the attack.

Our enemy had anticipated that and laid a trap at the spot they thought I would retreat to.
As such, rushing straight toward incoming enemies ensured my safety instead.

That said, I would have lunged right into the demons' attack and met my demise if I were even a tiny bit slower or made a wrong turn even slightly.

And of course, demons and me aren't the only ones here.
Alma's arrow was stuck on one of the demons who had missed their attack, exposing themselves.

"...You dare to shoot an arrow that pierced me, impudent humans."

As expected of high ranking demons, even Alma's arrows couldn't manage to penetrate through them completely.
But it seems to be working.
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
『Should I augment [Magic Poison] in the arrow?』

『No, just concentrate on augments that raise attack power. You're doing damages with it.』

We once used [Magic Poison] to defeat a demon before, but that won't be damaging enough with just an arrow.
Might as well prioritize on firepower then.

『I understand!』

Ruli handed over the next arrow to Alma.
Archer side is going well it seems.

I look for the enemy's weak point while thinking.
Their formation has fallen into a slight disarray because of their charge. I've got an opportunity to launch an offensive here.

"...Over there."

I slash at a demon' wings with my magically enchanted sword.

Demon's wings aren't as tough as a dragon's.
Since they're not vital, wounding their wings won't result in their death--but it slows them down.

By slowing down one of the demons, all of them would have to decrease their pace as well to maintain the formation.
But lowering speed here would mean losing their advantage in mobility against me.

I have squeezed the enemy's next moves to two choices now; either slow down or give up on the formation, simply by wounding the wings of one demon.
This is how you control the flow of battle.







Previous Chapter

Death March kara Hajimaru Isekai Kyousoukyoku 17-4

17-4. Purple Mound

 

Satou here. Although not to the point of like a bolt out of the blue, I remember feeling absolutely stumped waking up at unknown places after a night out drinking away with friends many times over.
Waking up to a Death Valley-like scenery only happened that one time though.







"Over there, Earl Pendragon."

Heim-shi of Shiga Eight Swords points at something that looks like a purple mound.

The morning after Bridal Knights formation, he suddenly dropped by my mansion and brought me to capital's outskirts.
We headed to an area barricaded by the capital soldiers to find the aforementioned purple mound.

"This thing?"

Crisis Perception isn't reacting, it doesn't seem that dangerous.
AR reading says, a [Soil Structure].

I got off my horse, handed over the rein to a knight who led us here, and walked toward the purple mound.

A purple mound is standing at the center of a field that has been fully harvested.
It looks like ruins from Lalakie era somewhat.

"Indeed. This was found when a farmer was making his rounds in this area."
"You mean this wasn't here before?"
"Yes, according to testimonies of harvesters, this mound was not present up to sunset the day before."

Fumu, not a Mystery Circle, but a Mystery Monument huh.
I noticed that the maker's name is blank when I check its detailed info. Either this was made by someone with a blank name like I could do, or the name was erased with some kind of mean.
Well, you'd normally think it's the latter, no doubt.

"Perhaps someone created this with earth magic in the middle of the night?"
"I would not have called for Earl Pendragon so early in the morning if it did."

Heim-shi dismounted, picked up a pebble on the ground and threw it at the purple mound.

"--It passed through the mound?"

The stone Heim-shi threw disappeared into the purple mound, and came out on the other side.

"Is this an illusion?"

I knew it was not despite me asking.
I would have immediately seen through the illusion if it really were.

"It's not."

Heim-shi grabbed and stopped my arm that was going to reach out to the mound.
Heim-shi turned around and made a signal to a group of people that was already in the area around the mound.
One of the people, a magician wearing a blue sash on top of his robe--Blue Sash of Shiga 33 Wands stepped forward and began to chant a spell. Judging from the chant, it's a summoning magic.

The magician summoned a pigeon and released it toward the mound.

The pigeon nested on one of the bumps on the Purple Mound.
Stones pass through it but it appears that living things can touch it just fine.

"Magic passes through it as well, but not living creatures."

According to Heim-shi, his light magic and one of the magicians' force magic just went through the mound.

"Watch closely, Earl Pendragon."

Heim points at the pigeon.
The pigeon started to cry out in pain, so I checked the AR and saw its HP gradually decreasing.

--It's Drain.

Looks like the mound will start draining life force from living things after they come into contact with it for a certain period of time.
However, I didn't saw such a dangerous bit when I checked the mound's detailed info on the AR.

I stare at the purple mound once again.

There's a complex mana flow inside the purple mound. I can't read its effect, not sure if it's because it's not magic.
At the very least, it doesn't seem to be a spell formula for Life Drain nor Mana Drain.

"As you can see. This mound snatches vitality and strength of living beings."

The pigeon fell on the ground before Heim-shi.
Looks like it's only fainted.

The summoner picked the pigeon up and unsummoned it.

"I was wondering, Earl Pendragon who has traveled all over the world would know about this mound, no?"

Looks like that was the reason why he picked me.

"I think it kinds of resemble ruins left by Lalakie Civilization, I suppose?"
"Fumu. A relic of an ancient civilization huh... Even if it has only enough power to kill insects, for something like this to appear suddenly--"

A scholar standing next to the summoning magician nodded, like 'I know what you mean'.
Looks like he's a researcher from the Royal Research Institute.

Numerous dead bodies of small insects are lying on the ground around the purple mound indeed.

"--In my humble opinion, this is some kind of blight."
"Why not just say it straight? Like, this is the demons' doing."

The summoner snapped at the scholar.
Ignoring their feud, I walk around the mound, pretending to check it out, then I tested magic edge and holy dagger on it, but they all passed through the mound all the same.

I probably could intervene with the torrent of mana inside the mound if I just put some strength into it, but since it's dangerous as I have no idea what the formula is about, I refrained myself.

"Usasa, lookf at thatf woof."

--Woof?

"It's likef the thingf at the villagef's squaref!"
"It even gotf the samef colorf too."

I turn around at the source of accented words and found the dogkin boy, Gaugaru, a graduate of the labyrinth city's Explorer School, [Pendora].
He's together with his friends, the bunnykin Usasa, Rabibi and the others.

They were among a crowd that had formed outside the soldiers' barricade without my knowledge.

"It's the young masfter!"
"""Young masfter!"""

The Pendora members waved at me.
With that as an impetus, the crowd who were here to look at the purple mound noticed me.

"Am I seeing things or is that--"
"It's the Demon Lord Slayer!"
"Hail Pendragon-sama!"

The crowd began to call out for my name.

"Oy! Don't push! Stop pushing!"

People at the end of the crowd began to push at the barricade to look at me better.
They're ignoring the soldiers telling them to stop, they're gonna crash here if this keeps up.

These people would go straight to the purple mound at this rate, not good.

"...■ Clay Wall!"

Field soil rose up 30 meter tall before the crowd.
The one who cast the magic was a magician with pink blond hair. Since she's wearing a red colored sash which signifies her position in 33 Shiga Wands, she must be a subordinate of the blue sashed summoner earlier.

"Was that of use to you, lord Pendragon?"

The beautiful magician turned around and let out a smile.

"Why yes, thank you."

When I frankly thanked her, the magician had a complicated look on her face.
Looks like my reaction didn't live up to her expectations.

I check her AR reading.

She's called Athena, with [Sakura Guardian] title, I kind of remember her.
She was the girl I met at the base of the huge sakura tree at the royal castle when I first visited the castle right after I became a Mithril explorer.
If I recall right, she had a little feud with Mia due to her sense of rivalry against Boruenan Forest elves.

Since it's a story long past and not like it's got anything to do with me, I nod at her to end the conversation and ask one of the soldiers to fetch Usasa and the others.
Not because I know them, but because I heard them saying something curious.

"""Young masfter! Congratulationsf for the formationf of your privatef knights!"""

I promptly say, "Thanks" to them and get to the point.

"Everyone, have you seen something like this before?"
"Un, we have."
"No idea what is it, but that thing sprouted up in the village's square this morning."
"It sprung up like nyoki-nyoki-nyoki woof."
"It shone bright before it did, didn't it."
"Right right. Was doing a night watch, then suddenly a magic circle-like something on the ground, that surprised me kuma."
"Kubea's scream woke us up."
"I didn't scream kuma! I was just a bit startled kuma."

I ask them more questions while arranging their words and the content of their testimonies in my head.

"Did you hear a chant before the magic circle showed up?"
"I didn't kuma."
"Neither did I."

"Kinda felt like I heard a grating sound like 'kiiin'."

Rabibi added more testimony to the two who were on night duty.

"The mound was at the center of the magic circle?"
"That's right kuma."
"Was the mound already purple from the beginning?"
"Yup, I think it was. And since the magic circle also shined purple, so was the magic circle's color, I think."

In the middle of the night, a purple magic circle manifested in the village's square, and then soil rose up to form a mound in the center of a magic circle shining purple.

"We tried to poke the mound with a stick and it just passed through."
"Touching it made me lose strength, it felt yucky kuma."
"So, we woke everyone, and ran here to inform young master."

And then they met me by chance here when they took a shortcut through the field from the west gate.
Dryad might have a hand in leading them here indirectly.

"I see. I'm grateful for the valuable information."

I convey their testimonies to Heim-shi of Shiga Eight Swords.
Information about the appearances of purple mounds in other place and that it was created by some kind of magic was a major one to Heim-shi and the researchers, he smiled broadly and clapped the kids' shoulders, "Well done!"

"Uwaah, it's a Shiga Eight Sword in the flesh."
"Awesome"
"You guys, you're being rude."
"Right right woof."

The [Pendora] kids seemed to be fans of Shiga Eight Swords, they were elated to receive a thanks from Heim-shi.

"Everyone, you've done a good job. Since it'd be a struggle to reach my mansion, you should take some rest in one of my villas instead."

I took a paper out, drew a map on it and handed it over to Usasa.
It's close to the market, so it's an ideal spot if they want to tour the capital.

"Oh right, this is for you, young master."

Rabibi fetched a bundle of letters from his knapsack and handed it to me.
The topmost letter has the name Iruna and Jena of [Beautiful Wings], who are working as teachers at Explorer School, written on it. A letter from those two, that's rare.

"Teachers were wishing for more staff, they said."

--I see.

"The Explorer School's selection test was incredible woof."
"Lots of knights-sama and nobles-sama kuma."
"Like that princess with a gigantic hammer, it was amazing."

Skimming the letter over, it was a petition to change the way recruitments work since nobles and knights were flooding in the selection tests, thus they were losing time to teach students.
Looks like the effect of Demon Lord Slayer even manifested here.

--Oh.

Looking at Map, I saw that Pochi and Tama have just started their daily morning practice.

『I'm sorry you two, but could you do me a favor?』
『Aye aye sir~』
『Acknowledged nanodesu.』

I took the readily consenting two here behind a nearby tree with Space magic.

"Usasa~?"
"Rabibi nanodesu! Ah, Gaugaru and Kubea's here too nodesu!"
"""Tama neesan!"""
"""And Pochi neesan!"""

Pendora kids were ecstatic when they saw Tama and Pochi.
The kids whose names didn't get called were pointing to themselves while looking like they were saying, "Me, what about me?", seeing that Pochi looked like she was at a loss for words for a bit and then said, "Everyone, you have done well to come here nanodesu!" to brush over it.

"Sorry but could you two please show them the way to the downtown villa?"

There's a lot of people in the royal capital, I'm worried whether they can arrive at the villa otherwise.

"Roger~"
"Yes nanodesu. Pochi is a pro at showing ways to people nanodesuyo!"

While smiling and praising Pochi for her yet another pro, I sent everyone off.

"Now then--"

These purple mounds are either related to demons, or gods, or neither at all...

For now, I'll check out the most likely location first.
I connect to Arisa and Sera at Pendragon Mansion with space magic [Tactical Talk].

『Sera-san, sorry but could you ask Head Miko at the Duchy Capital--Lily-sama as to whether she received an oracle about purple mounds.』
『Yes, very well.』
『Arisa, sorry but could you take Sera-san there.』
『Yesh yesh, jusf leave it to me~』

I ask the still half-asleep Arisa to teleport Sera while informing them about Purple Mounds.
Right afterward, it hit me that I could have just asked the head miko myself as Hero Nanashi, but well it's too late now, might as well entrust it to Sera.


<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>




"None of the mikos at every temple including Lily-sama received an oracle of such."

Sera who had just come back from the duchy capital reported to me.

"Sete told me that he didn't receive a report about that from other cities and towns either, though there was another one near the capital."

Hikaru who had gone asking the king told me.
Looks like he had been checking towns and villages in Shiga Kingdom after the report from Pendora came in.

"Master, got a follow-up report from Echigoya Firm. The mounds showed up in other countries as well."

Arisa who came out of the gate told me.
The purple mounds have shown up in cities and areas around towns where Echigoya Branch Offices are located.

Instead of a simultaneous global terror attack, it's a simultaneous global construction effort huh...
It would have been simple if I could just search them on Map, but [Soil Structure] spat back too many results, there's no way to distinguish them.

I tried to look at some of them near Echigoya Branch Offices with space magic [Clairvoyance] and found out that they were all structurally identical.

"I guess this is a new ploy by the demons?"
"Don't you think the scale is too big for demons?"

It's one thing if it's limited to a city or a country somewhere, but such a large scale like this should be infeasible for demons.

"But master can do it, right?"
"Well, yeah, I can--"

I affirmed Arisa.

The plan was to visit [Realm of Gods] once I was done with Bridal Knights formation ceremony, but it seems like I'll have to postpone it.

"That face--"

Arisa went around me, placed both her hands on my face and then peeked at it.

"--You're trying to bear the burdens all alone again, aren't you?"

As expected of Arisa.
She can see through everything.

"Just leave things here to us."
"Arisa is correct. We shall protect the people in your place, master."
"Un, Liza is right. We'll make sure to house-sit well while you're away, don't worry."

Arisa, Liza and Hikaru told me that, then the other girls also nodded reassuringly.

"I got it. I'll be on my way after checking some things out."







"Sorry for asking your assistance out of nowhere."
"Please don't worry about it. Pipin and me are loyal extensions of your limbs, Kuro-sama."

I've come to a depopulated village at the outskirts of the eastern country group.
I was thinking of checking out the purple mounds for a bit before departing for God's Realm.

I have given more than enough compensations to the inhabitants of this depopulated village and have them take shelter at a nearby town.

I look at the purple mound at the outer edge of the village.

Its aspect of being permeable to tangible attacks bears a striking resemblance to the [Demon God's Offshots] that were once summoned to the capital.
If it's related to demons, I'll let the girls handle it even if they're up against demon lords, but if it's related to gods, especially if it's a ploy to resurrect demon god, things could go south if I just thoughtlessly leave them behind.

"Sharururun, I have checked the surrounding area. Confirmed that there's no one who missed out evacuating."
"Well then, you two, please take some distance."

The two people helping me are the former phantom thieves and the current members of Intelligence office of Echigoya Firm, Sharururun and Pipin.
After confirming that the two have evacuated the area, I approach the purple mound that's appeared near the depopulated village.

I put up multifold barriers so the village won't feel the shockwave and then I use advanced magic on the purple mound.

--No change.

Magic don't work on it just like holy swords and magic edge.

Next, I tried to pierce it with a dragon fang sword, but it just passed through the mound.
I was hoping that this could destroy the mound, but even a dragon fang sword that holds the [Pierce Everything] property doesn't work on something that's intangible to physical objects.

Lastly I draw the Divine Sword and hit the purple mound with it.

--Ooh.

Like a water droplet on a frying pan, the purple mound dispersed away as if it's an illusion.

"Hyuu, nice goin'"
"Looks like it went well."

Pipin and Sharururun came back.

"Does this mean we don't have to go to the next village?"
"No, there's still one thing I'd like try yet."

Led by Pipin, we went to another depopulated village at the neighboring mountain, then I used anti-god magic on the second purple mound there and confirmed that the magic was able to destroy it.

This means Arisa, Hikaru and Mia can deal with these mounds even if something goes wrong.




◇◇◇ POV Change: Arisa ◇◇◇



"Well then, I'll be off. I'll leave the rest in your hand."
"Un, just leave it to us."

It's the day Master departs for [Realm of Gods].

He's departing for the Sanctuary of Tenion Temple at the Duchy Capital as appointed by gods.
Jealousy welled up within me at Sera who would go with Master until midway through, but as Master's sole familiar, I will display the extent of my caliber here and watch over them with a smile.

"Mwu, lovers' hand hold."

Mia murmured.

--Mumumu.

"Well, that much is--"

I'm maintaining my calm expression.

"Guilty."

Ahead of Mia, Sera interlocked her fingers with master's, pulling over to lean on him.

Recently, Master often ogled Sera and her remarkable growth on chest area.
He's had Poker Face on, but he's definitely enjoying the softness and fluffiness, I'm super sure of it.

I mean, my Familiar Sensor and Maiden Sensor are blaring hard.

I've gotta teach master, an inhabitant of planet oppai, the allure of chippai. <TLN: Chicchai (small) oppai.>
Mito calmed me down when I reflexively rolled up my sleeves and stepped forward.

"No one would have a hard time if that much was enough to take him down."

It's got some weight when said by the childhood friend.

Master who had separated away from Sera after Mia pointed that out teleported to the duchy capital soundlessly.
For some reason Nana also teleported together with them. She must have wanted to meet the sealkin children at the duchy capital.

"Oh right, Arisa-chan."

Mito whispers in my ears.

"Manager (Elterina) got a scoop from exclusive intelligent officer (Sharururun)."

Looks like Master went out at night yesterday.
The former phantom thief name, Sharururun came up in the bit of words I caught on Familiar Link, thus I had asked Mito to check it out at the capital.

"Was it really about purple mounds?"
"Un, looks like he was trying to figure out a way to destroy them. He asked her to give us this letter if there's any sign of something bad happening to the purple mounds."

The letter said that the purple mounds could be destroyed with anti-god magic.

Looks like his night outing last night was to look for a way to destroy the purple mounds.

"Geez, master is really overprotective and worries too much."
"Well, that's just how Ichirou-nii--Satou is."

Mito's and my eyes met and we laughed together.

We're all fine here, so please come home safe--my beloved Master.






※Next update is planned for 3/3



Previous Chapter

Shikkaku Mon no Saikyou Kenja Chapter 255


Chapter 255 Strongest Sage, Picked as Challengers

 

"...What the heck is this guy trying to do?"

I tried to go ahead while thinking that... then a barrier was produced before me.
Looks like Grevil isn't going to let us proceed yet.

"Hold on a bit. I've still got do something I ought to do."

Right afterward.
With a buzzing sound, Grevil's figure was displayed in the sky.

"Greetings, ladies and gentlemen of Royal Capital! Can you hear me! I am the great demon of this era, Grevil! I shall now embark on a quest to destroy you humans!"

"...Wha?"

I'm perplexed at the sudden speech.
What is this guy saying.

"I hold the power to demolish you! Allow me to make a demonstration!"

As he said that--a white ray flew out toward the capital.
That's a ray called [Light of Destruction] shot from a strategic class magic device.
A moment later, the display created by Grevil showed the destruction of [Great Capital Barrier] from that one shot.

Since the ray destroyed the upper part of [Great Capital Barrier], no one fell victim to it for now.
However, if the ray was aimed lower, there would have been thousands of casualties.
The reason why there was no damage is simply because Grevil aimed high.

"However, I am generous! I shall give humans a chance... If humans could prove that they hold the power to defeat me, I shall put a halt on my conquest... The challengers would be these four strongest humans I have personally picked."

As he said that, we were put under a magical [Spotlight].
At the same time, the [Wide Area Comm Magic] displayed us.

"...Turning challengers into a show huh. You really got an awful taste..."

I spoke to Grevil in a voice that wouldn't be heard in the [Wide Area Comm Magic].
It's the only reason I could think of why he'd do all this.

"Oh I sure do. I'm the world-destroying great demon after all."

Grevil replied to me.
His words weren't heard in the [Wide Area Comm Magic], thus it didn't get transmitted to the capital.

"Well then, I wish you luck... In case our challengers run away, I shall regard it as their loss and destroy humanity. Starting from the capital."

After saying that unilaterally, Grevil cut off the [Wide Area Comm Magic].
In exchange, the [Wide Area Comm Magic] now shows--a room with brick walls which is apparently a room in the castle ahead.

"Live coverages of the progress of battle huh."
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
Three demons are waiting for us over there.
Their ranks among demons don't seem to be that high.

Judging from the mana reaction, they're in the first room we will encounter after crossing this bridge.

"What should we do?"

"The magic device that destroyed the barrier earlier--[Light of Destruction] needs a 30 minute cool down period before it can shoot again. I won't be surprised if he shoots at the capital if we turn back now."

"...Which means no choice but to press ahead..."

Thus, we cross the bridge.
There's a thick metal door at the end of the bridge.

The door is shut tight... They'd use the opening to attack us if we try to thoughtlessly open this.
The right way to deal with this ambush is to destroy the door instead.
They're the one inviting us in after all, I won't hear their complains about busted doors.

"Iris, your turn."

"Yes!"

Iris kicked the door with all her might.
And then the several centimeter thick metal door flew to the opposite end of the room.

I rushed into the room at the same time.
Ruli handed over arrows to Alma on the bridge.

"DIE!"

The three demons lurking in the room jumped at me.
--This level of demons are nothing to the me after the training.

I instantly enchant my sword and then cut two of the demons while dodging the other.
The two demons who had their heads lopped off died without even being able to scream their last.

A moment later, an arrow pierced the remaining demon's heart.
--It's Alma's arrow.

"A hit! ...Think I should shoot another?"

"No need to, it's dead already... Well, I think it's a good idea to just shoot regardless if you're unsure."

I look at the demon with an arrow stuck.
Alma's arrow precisely hit its heart.
An instant death.






Previous Chapter

Okami wa Nemuranai 6.12

12



The next day, Eda dropped by in the morning and said that she wouldn't be able to come here for three days as she had work that would take three days to finish.

That day, they used up all the herbs, moss and nuts they had picked up, finishing up all the medicine preparations that needed to be done.

While enjoying an afternoon tea break, Lecan finally decides to speak out the decisive word.

Word that he has been mulling over and over when to utter.

Once he let this word out, their relationship as a teacher and student may be over. Or he may even get killed. However, after pondering and pondering on about this, Lecan has decided to follow his inner voice, that he cannot keep tucking this word away in his chest forever.

Lecan actually has another choice here. The choice to leave this town and keep the matter about Shira to himself.

However, Lecan picks the hard choice to utter the word instead.

"Shira."

"Yes?"

"You said you couldn't use <Purification>."

"I did, didn't I."

"But you never said you hadn't learned <Purification>."

"And?"

"The reason why you cannot use <Purification>, is it because doing so would destroy yourself in the process?"

Shira sipped her tea once and then closed her eyes.

After looking like she was tasting the tea in her mouth for a while, she opened her mouth.

"Since, when did you notice."

"Since the moment I got into this town."

"Hee?"

"I have an ability that can detect humans, animals, magic beasts and youma over a wide area."

"Oh of course you would notice."

"I see ordinary humans as dim red lights with that ability. Humans who possess mana are displayed as bright red lights. Animals as green lights, magic beasts and youma as blue lights. When I first entered this town, I detected a really bright blue light, so much that I almost mistook it as one coming from a deep floor boss of a great dungeon. A light which rivals even that of a dragon kind."

"...I see. I was aware that you were on edge when you first came by, so that was why. I could have never imagined that an ability to detect things like yours even existed. The otherworld really is frightening eh."

"I could not figure out why you would disguise yourself as a human and lived in a human town. But I heard a minstrel's song. About the tale of Witch Erushira."

"Ah, that one huh."
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
"You were originally a human, weren't you. And you're living as a human even now."

"Even if I'm a monster, there's no guarantee that the witch Erushira told in that legend is the same person as me, no?"

"I can't really say this well, but it's like finding a missing piece of puzzle that fits just right, I just feel that it all makes sense now. My instinct tells me that you are Erushira."

"Instinct huh."

"There is apparently this term 'undead', you must be one of this youma called undead. However, you are not like other youma who was born a youma and attack humans indiscriminately."

"There are cases where a revenant youma was originally a human, you see. I suppose I fall under that group. However, my memories as a human has strongly remained. That's the only difference between us."

Then Shira began to talk about her version of story bit by bit.

The truth spoken by Shira had a similar rough outline with the one sung by the minstrel. However, the contents themselves were completely different.

Erushira was a daughter of a countryside nobleman. Due to some curious circumstances, she was to be wed to a noble at the capital, and she became well known at the capital for her beauty and talent in healing magic.

At first, she was to be the first prince's concubine. However, the great King Mahazar caught sight of her and she came to be the king's favorite mistress instead.

Erushira had no complaints with her life. Taking care of King Mahazar was the greatest honor and the king had gathered up the best mages and magic engineers there were to satisfy Erushira's craving for knowledge. Erushira exhibited talents in all kinds of magic, her teachers spoke of her as a once in a hundred year genius.

One day, the king gathered the best minds amongst magic researchers and issued a decree. Find a way to preserve Erushira's beauty and talent for all eternity. The sages came up with an answer to this impossible problem in mere three years. However, it required a magic gem that held an unbelievable amount of mana, and furthermore, that magic gem had to have spent more than 100 years next to a corpse.

The king knew that such a magic gem actually existed. Namely, the magic gem of an ancient dragon that had been buried inside the founder king's tomb.

Erushira herself was opposed to it. Because she realized that the plan devised by the sages was not intended to prolong the life of the living, but to deprive life off the living and turn them into an undead, taking away the volatility of life off them.

However, the ritual was nonetheless carried out by the king's decree. Erushira became an undead, forever preserving her beauty and talent. The king was deeply satisfied with the result.

This might have ended well were things remained as it were. Erushira intended to lie next to the king's grave once he had passed away. And to receive the sacred light of baptism then.

Several years later, the king had an idea. He would like to persist forever himself.

Hence, he demanded the sages to recharge mana into the ancient dragon's magic gem and put himself under the same ritual. The sages were opposed to it. The ritual itself could be replicated, but the previous ritual succeeded only because the recipient, Erushira, was brimming with mana and youthfulness, as such, it wouldn't go well on the king. Moreover, Erushira had put herself under <Purification> that she had cast herself before they performed the ritual. As a result, her body was elevated to its finest condition. However, since Erushira had become an undead, she couldn't use <Purification> anymore. Preparing a replacement for Erushira would mean that a much inferior <Purification> would have to be used.

But the king's decree was absolute, and they performed the ritual nevertheless. The king did obtain an eternal life, but not with his memories nor wisdom, he had turned into a being not unlike a broken doll.

When Erushira told the prime minister this reality, he implored her.

The prime minister would immediately begin the process to pass the throne onto the first prince. In the meantime, he asked Shira to put the king under <Rule> spell. <Rule> is the most advanced form of mind magic, capable of making the recipient to do complex actions from a simple order, and it would persist even if the spell user isn't around the recipient. She was hesitant to put the great king under such a spell, but she gave in to the persuasion as it would only for a short while.

However, right about then, the first prince passed away. Though he might be a prince, he had lived a long life after all, thus his death was no mystery.

The right to succession in Wapudo Kingdom was traditionally given to the eldest son. When he was still of sound mind, King Mahazar himself wished his successor to be his eldest son and then to the first prince's eldest son, Prince Sarima. The prime minister declared that since the king had abdicated his throne to the first prince, the late first prince would then pass the succession right to his eldest son, Prince Sarima.

However, Prince Sarima took an unexpected action here.

He declared that he would be in a mourning period and stay indoors for three years.

In Wapudo Kingdom, the eldest son would traditionally go into mourning when their parents died. However, that was just a formality, those with high social standings would simply refrain from having disputes or punish their vassals for a period of time instead. However, Prince Sarima would go into mourning the strictly old fashioned way. And three years were exactly the period an eldest son had to go into mourning when heir parents passed away. Since King Mahazar was still officially alive, this could be counted as an insult, but they overlooked it.

Together with capable top aides, the prime minister governed the kingdom while feigning everything was the king's edicts. Erushira ended up having to maintain <Rule> for three years.

The mourning period eventually lapsed and Prince Sarima requested an audience with King Mahazar. Erushira wasn't allowed to be present during the audience. Prince Sarima detested her for so easily cajoling and becoming King Mahazar's mistress despite her initial status as a candidate for his father's concubine.

A tragedy occurred in the audience hall.

Erushira who had sensed the discrepancy rushed to the audience hall and witnessed the prime minister, the guards and Prince Sarima's escorts in a pool of their own blood, along with Prince Sarima himself attempting to take the king's life.

Erushira immediately used <Petrification> on Prince Sarima and saved the king. However, the prime minister had already breathed his last and there was no way to save him.

After interrogating Prince Sarima, the truth came to light. Prince Sarima held a grudge against King Mahazar. Because the king would keep clinging to the throne, as a result his father who should have been king could never ascend to the throne. Prince Sarima had made the decision to kill King Mahazar as revenge for the father he respected so much.

Erushira was at a complete loss. The prime minister who could give the appropriate directions was no longer present. However, the king had to issue a royal decree of some kind.

Thus Erushira did.

A decree to overlook Prince Sarima's crimes and to give the succession right to Prince Sarima once the preparations were done.

She wouldn't notice until later that she should have given a severe punishment to Prince Sarima here. By doing such, those who were loyal to the prime ministers would have forgiven Prince Sarima.

However, Princes Sarima was absolved of his crimes without any kind of punishment. As such, everyone who had worked under the prime minister bore a grudge toward Prince Sarima. Even the prime minister's political opponents and generals who had clashed with the minister in more than one occasion bore ill will toward Prince Sarima.

After that, everything was just chaos.

She could no longer recall the precise events.

By the time she came to her sense, Prince Sarima was leading an army to attack the capital.

At this time, four of the king's six grandsons were in charge of the royal capital's defense. Prince Sarima's only ally was his full younger brother.

Prince Sarima led a small army, as such he would be defeated easily. But that did not happen in reality. Because Erushira was allying herself with Prince Sarima. Through the king's decrees, she would turn the situations to Princes Sarima's favor, dragging the civil war on and on.

Later, thinking this in hindsight, she should have prioritized capturing Prince Sarima and let other grandson ascend to the throne instead. However, the Erushira at the time was incapable of making such a decision, she could only senselessly follow King Mahazar's will without question.

Conflicts arose all over the kingdom.

The kingdom may have looked peaceful on the surface, but underneath, there must have been sparks of conflicts lying everywhere, just waiting to explode.

Prince Sarima eventually gained control of the royal palace.

Erushira secretly made her escape. She was planning to watch over the situation from a distance, and then let the king die at the right time before she take her own. If she died first, people would have to see the king in a tragic state. She could not let that one thing happen at any cost.

King Mahazar was burned to death by Prince Sarima.

Yet prince Sarima did something unexpected next.

He took his own life.

Due to the extreme shock and despair, Erushira forgot about dying as she could only wander around in the mountains far from human dwellings.

And then, a long time passed.






Previous Chapter

Shikkaku Mon no Saikyou Kenja Chapter 254

Chapter 254 Strongest Sage, Arrives at the Site of Decisive Battle

 

"That's... but that's right next to the capital! How could he hide there!? People would have noticed, wouldn't they!?"

"It would be a simple matter for Grevil. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised even if he were lurking inside the 『Great Capital Barrier』. We're lucky that he's outside."

But I don't understand why Grevil would pick that spot.
There was nothing but a lake there.

Neither is it geographically nor magically significant.
It's really just an ordinary lake with a nice scenic view.

Wonder why Grevil is encamped there.
...Well, we'll figure that out once we raid the place.

"Let's take a nice long rest tomorrow. Then the day after tomorrow, we're commencing the attack."

"Got it!"

"Understood!"



Two days later.
We're heading to the Lake Leysiard.

Since the lake isn't being used for anything, there's no road connecting there... But since we're passing through meadows all the way, not woods, our journey is proceeding smoothly.

"I think we're quite close already?"

"Yeah. It should come into view soon."

"...I can't believe there are demons lurking here..."

Not long since we departed, we got close enough to Lake Leysiard.
But there's no sign of the place being used as a demon's den nor that kind of mana.

However... something feels unnatural from the mana in the area somehow.
This must be due to the influence of the barrier Grevil put up.

He must have created a barrier that drives ordinary people away to prevent him getting found out before we get here.
Those who have reached a certain level of expertise with magic should be able to detect the barrier's source, but most people today aren't at such a level.
Thus, it's possible to hide this close to the capital just by putting up a mana quarantine barrier here.

"That's Lake Leysiard...! What a nice view!"
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
"But there's nothing here... or it would be nice if true, but there's a barrier here isn't it."

"Yeah. There's even an obviously deliberately placed crack here."

I look at flag unnaturally placed on the lake shore.
There's a crack on the barrier next to that flag where you can see inside.

The flag is drawn with [General Magic Textbooks] that were left in the place where we found demons back then.
...I don't get why these books keep getting referenced.

There's a big bridge inside the barrier.
That bridge is connected to the crack on the barrier.

This bridge looks newly built... I mean, looks like it was built just one two months ago.
It was probably hastily built after his declaration of war to us.

"What should we do about this? Should I turn back into dragon and smash open the barrier?"

"Grevil himself has probably noticed that Iris is a dragon. He's probably going to survive even [Dragon Breath]."

Grevil must be telling, [Enter through the bridge].
We could just break the barrier and enter... But considering our opponent possess weapons of mass destruction on him, we shouldn't go against his requests too much.
Even if those weapons aren't here, sending a magical signal to activate them is a simple matter.

"We should cross the bridge just as asked."

"Oh, it's really rare for Mathias-san to comply with enemy's request."

"Well I have no idea what the other party is thinking at all. Who knows if he would even deploy WoMD were his mood turned sour."

I peek through the barrier crack.
Apparently there's a castle-like building adorned with ornaments made in real bad taste at the end of the bridge.

I don't believe he had a penchant for these really bad ornaments when he was still a king... Just what had transpired when I was reincarnating anyway.
I confirm with the three girls.

"Are you three ready?"

"Let's go at 'em!"

"I'm all right!"

"I'm ready when you are!"

After hearing those, I take a step toward the bridge.
Then...

With a loud sound effect, Grevil's face got displayed in front of us.
Looks like he's had a magic device to project images installed beforehand.

"These mechanism are really in bad taste..."

"Please don't say that. I too have things I have to accomplish at all cost."

Then Grevil cast some sort of magic.
Then...

"A disguise huh?"

On the display, Grevil has turned into a genuine-looking demon complete with horns and wings.
I absolutely have no clue what he's trying to do, but it's clear that he's pretending to be a demon.

"Exactly. From now on, I'm a great demon. A great demon who's trying to destroy humanity."

Grevil on the display cast yet another magic.

『Mathi-kun, guard--』

『No, that's not an attack magic. No need to guard.』

Ruli got on guard thinking Grevil was going to cast an attack magic... However, Grevil is casting comm magic.
And it's not a private type, but the complete opposite--it's a [Wide Area Comm Magic] that will transmit Grevil's figure and voice to all people at the capital.






Previous Chapter

Death March kara Hajimaru Isekai Kyousoukyoku 17-3

17-3. Garden Party (2)

 

Satou here. The original works of famous picture book stories sometimes have grotesque part in them. Though the gore, bad environment and unfortunate ending may have a point for moral lessons, I'd prefer pointless bad ends that only serve to worsen your overall impression of the work to stop.







"Oh I know that one!"

Someone reacted to the ominous-sounding term, "End of the World", uttered by princess Maryest.

"It's a line the Demon God said to hero in the 『Hero Bridegroom』 desuwa!"

Lady Karina who was competing for jerky with Pochi and Tama walked here with eyes sparkling.
She must be eager to join in a conversation about heroes topic she loves so much.

"Yes, that's correct."

Princess Maryest gave a confirmation.

"I expected no less from the daughter of Marquis Leon Muno, the leading expert of hero research. The line was only written in the first edition, as such only a few know it."
"Our family has the first edition of the book granted to us by His Majesty! 『Hero Bridegroom』 story is my favorite, I can recite all the scenes I love just from memory!"

This [Hero Bridegroom] the girls are talking about is apparently a fairy tale featuring the first generation Hero who founded Saga Empire as the protagonist.

The story is divided by first and later parts, the first part depicts the hero working together with God Parion who made her advent into a mortal body to clash against the demon god who was leading seven demon lords, and then banishing them to the moon beyond the void. The ominous sounding line earlier is said by the losing demon god to the hero during the climax.
The latter part plays exactly like the title suggests, it's about the hero clearing trials of the gods until he got invited to the Realm of Gods as a demi god, in order to marry God Parion.

Perhaps the black haired man who stopped the revival of Demon God at Saga Empire was the first generation hero--naw, no way. Mixing fiction and reality wouldn't even be a good joke.

That reminds me, I once read Pochi and Tama a picture book with similar story but the content differed a bit. At the very least, no dangerous sounding words like [End of the World] came up.
That picture book probably underwent a lot of revisions to make it suitable for children.







"So, just what's this 『End of the World』 really anyway?"

Arisa urged impatiently.

"Demon god said this to hero--"

Lady Karina adjusts her tone and recites the demon god's line by memory.

『Such futile attempts. No matter how many times you are reborn, your wish shan't ever be granted.』

--Just getting reborn is a no no. The lifespan of gods is just different from mortals, you see.

Overlapping with Lady Karina's voice, someone's else voice resurfaced in my mind.

『No, that can't be! I will definitely make it happen! Even God wills it!』
『It matters not what the little goddess desires, human cannot be as god.』

--Gods aren't omnipotent enough to hand out divinity whenever they want, you see.

I can't remember just when did I hear those words.

『Be it hundreds, thousands together, tis' a feat unattainable by a plebeian such as you.』

--If one portion of soul is not enough, you've just gotta piece together a whole lot of them.

The young sounding voice made a refrain in my mind.

"Nyuru~n"

Tama suddenly twined herself around my neck.

"You 'kay~?"

Tama is looking up at me with clear eyes.
The lines of sight of other girls have gathered at me as well.

Looks like I got lost in thought and missed Lady Karina's narration.

"Thanks, Tama. It's nothing."

The latter was for the girls who were looking at me anxiously.

"Sorry, I missed it halfway through. So what is this 『End of the World』 anyway?"
"It can't be helped. I'll go through it once again for you."

Without looking offended in the least, Lady Karina recited back the story.
Looks like I was lost there for quite a while from the [hundreds, thousands] part.

The problematic words turned up when the demon god was getting banished to the moon by a jet black holy sword created by the dragon god.

『O Hero, fearsome hero who surpasses even me, demon god. Powerful you may be, end of the world shall cometh as a fate unaltered withal.』
『End of the world? As long as I'm alive, I won't let you guys do as you please to this world God cherishes!』
『Listen well, o my nemesis. In the distant future, there be three great demon lords who attempt to lay waste upon the world. Take heed for that is the bell tolling the end of the world.』
『This world won't end! As I will become god's familiar and protect the world!』
『Then you shall prove those words. I shall rise again at the eve of the [End of the World]. Let us meet again hath you truly succeeded ascending to God's Throne.』

I see, an omen for the [End of the World] is supposed to be the appearances of the three great demon lords, the [Golden Wild Boar King], the [Dog-head Ancient King], and [Goblin Demon Lord].

"Then perhaps that black-haired man was..."

Arisa put on a look on her face like she was going to take the fiction seriously and claim that the black-haired man who stopped the demon god's revival was the first generation hero.

"It's just a fiction, Arisa."
"...You're right."

If the first gen. hero really managed to become a demi-god, Aze-san would have cited him as a successful example when I asked her about god's ascension.

"But, Satou."

Hikaru points at herself.

Oh right, Hikaru managed to propel herself 600 years into the future from the founding of Shiga Kingdom by means of a magically-induced artificial hibernation.
The first gen. hero is someone from an era twice as far back as that, but surviving this long should be feasible by using rejuvenating medicine multiple times.

"Master! They have a champagne tower set up over there, so I inform."
"Master, it's amazing nodesu! It's super duper amazing nodesu!"
"Master, they are preparing a whole roast of Dragon Snake (Naga) over there. Would you like to go check it together?"

Nana, Pochi and Liza blew away the heavy mood around us with their cheerful voices.

"Lulu is the one adjusting fire on that whole roast, so please if you could!"
"Thank you, well then, let's go check it out everyone."

When I think about it, even if the first generation hero is still alive today, it changes nothing.
Would rather if the demon god doesn't get revived though.

"Master, this roast was sponsored by everyone from Echigoya Firm."

All members of Echigoya Firm are present next to Lulu.

"Lord Pendragon, congratulations for the formation of your private knights."
"Thank you, General Manager Elterina."

When I thanked her, she closed her eyes, looking deeply moved.

"Congratulations, Lord Pendragon. We are truly grateful that you would order Bridal Knights' equipment through us."

Tifaliza who was accompanying the manager thanked me with her usual sagacious eyes.
The wedding dress-fashioned dress armor had its final assembly and decoration finished at Echigoya Firm, probably to hide it from me.

"I never would have thought that those who do not excel in combat prowess could join the private knights as well."

Tifaliza murmured in a voice so low I couldn't have picked it up without the [Attentive Ear] skill.
Her eyes were set at Miss Rina the governor rep of Brighton City.

"Ah, she will be in charge of managing the private knights' stronghold."

Perhaps Tifaliza would like to join the private knights?

"Then, would it be satisfactory if we take upon ourselves to manage the logistics?"
"That's a great idea!"

The manager was completely on board Tifaliza's idea.
Looks like both the manager and Tifaliza wanted to join in the knights.

Though it will likely invite suspicions about my relation with Kuro, people already regard me as either [The other Nanashi], or [Dragon's Avatar aiding Nanashi] or [One of Hero Nanashi's Subordinate] anyway, it's way too late to fuss over that.
Besides, I should reward these girls for always working hard behind the scene as the [Unsung Heroes].

I nod at the two who look up at me anxiously.

"Very well, I'll entrust our logistics and maintenance of equipment to Echigoya Firm."
"Thank you very much!"
"We will exert our very best to serve you."

The manager and Tifaliza's smiles bloomed.

"We will inform the other members as well."
"More importantly, gotta make additional orders for dress armor!"

The two left after saying, "Please excuse us, Ku--Lord Pendragon!"

Don't tell me, they wanted to join Bridal Knights solely because they wanted to wear the dress armor.

"They must be over the moon."

I agree with Arisa who muttered thus as they left.

They even almost referred me as Kuro by mistake after all.


<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>




"Haa, that was fun, and tiring~"

Arisa plopped down in the sofa while sighing, "Heave-ho."

"The bath is ready and all, how about soaking our fatigue away in it."
"Master, let's go in together."
"Nn, together."
"Wash your back~?"
"Pochi will wash to nodesu! Pochi is a pro at washing back nanodesuyo!"

The youth troupe invited me to a bath, but since I wanted to do a bit more light work on the stuff I was doing before the ceremony, I declined their offer.

Looking outside through the window, I saw the full moon clad in a dim purple light.

"It's the purple moon."
"Purple moon?"

I parroted Hikaru's murmur to ask her back.

"I guess it's a kind of good omen? Because it's said that the purple color signifies that the demon god is rampaging around trying to break out of its seal."
"It's trying to break out yet it's a good omen?"
"Un, it is. Since the fact that it's trying to break out means 『The Demon God's seal has not come undone』."
"I see."

That's one way to look at it--.
Hikaru smiled at me as I nodded and followed after the other girls to the bathroom.

I look at the moon again.

In the first place, is the demon god really sealed?

To the extent of my knowledge, the demon god has partially summoned his hair, and has been handing out his fragments to reincarnated people even now.

"Guess I'm overthinking it..."

If he wasn't sealed, the great weasel demon lord and goblin demon lord wouldn't have attempted to unseal him.
If I had to say, guess it's like the gap on the seal is loosening?

--Whoops.

I aborted my thought process which was heading to a weird direction.
Gotta be careful not to raise some unnecessary flag and get the seal broken.







Next morning--.

"Master, you have a visitor."

I was woken up by a maid and went to the entrance--not the guest room for some reason--there, Heim of Shiga Eights Swords was waiting for me.

He's already putting on a dire face this early in the morning.

"Earl Pendragon, please pardon me for visiting so early. There is something I would like to show you."



※ Next update is planned for 2/24








Previous Chapter

Okami wa Nemuranai 6.7_8_9_10_11

7



"AAAAAAH! Found ya! Finally found ya. Hey you, stop right there! I told you to stop!"

Lecan kept walking on without paying attention to a voice echoing in the busy street as he didn't think the caller was referring to him. He'd be late to work if he dawdled on.

"I told, you, to, STOP."

When he noticed through <Life Detection> and <3D Perception> that the suspicious person was going straight at him while pushing away other passerby, Lecan turned around.

"Who are you."

"Didcha forgot?! I'm Eda. We worked together as Chaney's escort, remember?"

"You were nothing but a drag."

"So you do remember! Oy, Lecan. Why'd you leave me behind."

"Once the job is over, you're nothing but a stranger. And it was you who slept in when I left the inn."

"Dontcha taught manner geez. I mean, we're comrades and all."

"Comrades?"

"What are you up to now?"

"I have nothing to say to you."

"As for me, I been taking on quests at the Adventurer's Association just so ya know."

"Really. See you."

"Ah, hey don't go off on your own you."

Eda kept talking on and on while persistently following Lecan, while Lecan himself paid her no heed. But then he recalled something and stopped in his tracks. Eda knocked against him hard from behind.

"Ow ow ow. Dangit you! The heck didcha stop suddenly. That's dangerous!"

"You."

"What now."

"Possess mana."

"...Eh?"

"Go study magic. You should have an aptitude."

Then Lecan walked away just like that. Eda froze for a while before she ran after him in a great haste. After all, Eda has a much smaller stature than Lecan, and Lecan is quick on his feet.

"Y-y-y-you. W-w-what are ya sayin'? W-what about me and mana?"

"I'm telling you that you possess mana."

"No way. I have mana, me?"

"You probably never tried to check it."

"How'd you even check out stuff like that."

Lecan leaped over a wall without saying anything back. And then he hopped up the walls and went along roofs toward Shira's house.

Eda was howling about something, but he completely ignored her.



8



The medicine making resumed.

A day after Lecan met Eda again, they finished making pills intended for different symptoms.

Pharmacies sell these by mixing them with less effective powdered medicine. Of course, guests of honor get to buy the whole pills.

Lecan learned <Appraisal> magic that same day.

He was able to learn it right away, but it was completely unusable for him.

"Don't rush it. The real battle for <Appraisal> begins after you've learned it."

"The result of appraisal comes up in my mind, but I can't make out what it means at all."

"Of course you wouldn't. The one doing appraising has got to make a saucer of meaning on their side."

"What should I do."

"For example, see this desk here. What kind of result you think will come out if you appraise this without any condition?"

"Desk of course."

"Wrong. The right answer is <Wood>."

"The name of its raw material?"

"More precisely, it's about standpoints. This looks like a <desk> at the convenience of men, no? To people who have no concept of desk nor understand how a desk works, getting <Desk> as the result of appraisal would be meaningless. Don't you think so?"

"Umu."

"As such. Try to read the appraisal result while strongly wishing to understand its value to human. Eventually, you'll get the result you seek. As you get better at it, eventually even words you don't know will come up as appraisal's results."

"Unknown words?"

"For instance, someone getting <Crossbow> word as a result of appraising a crossbow even though they have no idea what a crossbow is."

"Isn't that just obvious."

"Being able to appraise something you have knowledge about is actually quite amazing you know. Well either way. Just keep at it. If you have dungeon items, try to appraise those. Dungeon items have fixed meaning, so they're really easy to appraise, you see."

"That's a nice piece of info."

Lecan took potions out of <Storage> and appraised every one of them.

"I see it."

"Yep, keep it up."

That night in Lecan's room at the inn, he took the jewel Lady Rubianafale exchanged with him and put it under <Appraisal>.



<Name: Guardian Jewel of Zana>

<Item Name: Jewel>

<Grace: Boost Physical Attack, Supplement User's Mana, Null Curse>



--I got it read!

Lady Rubianafale's jewel really does boost physical attack. It even has the wonderful <Null Curse> effect. But just what is <Supplement User's Mana> supposed to be.

Looking back at his fight against the earth dragon Toron, the mana lost from using <Gust> was still gone until he recharged it using magic gems. To begin with, this jewel gives a boost to physical attacks, not magical attack. Yet why would it have <Supplement User's Mana> Grace.

Lecan hesitates to consult to Shira about this jewel.

It should become clear sooner or later anyway. He decided to look forward to that day.

Next, he took out his trusty sword.



<Name: None>

<Item Name: Sword>

<Grace: Self-Restoration>



Lecan was relieved that he could read the enchanted effect, but he felt that the information he got was slightly lacking.

Next he took out the silver ring and appraised it.



<Name: None>

<Item Name: Ring>

<Graces: Resist Abnormal Status, Resist Poison, Resist Curse>



The abilities he got put on the ring by paying a hefty amount of money to an enchanter seem to be treated as Graces here in this world.

He took more items from <Storage> and appraised them all.


<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
9



Two days later, they finished making antidote. This took an entire day.

The antidote is made of 10 kinds of herbs, two kinds of moss, and one kind of leaf bud as raw materials, then two kinds of minerals are added to combat deterioration, the antidote is in the form of pills and works on seven types of poisons. These pills aren't sold over the counter at pharmacies, but only to special customers. Lecan got some himself.

The next day, they finished making a medicine that suppresses all kinds of cold symptoms. It's pills again.

This one took two days, next they would complete cure-all.

Cure-all is a pill-shaped medicine that works on a wide range of internal organ illnesses. It has a pain relief effect and even a weak detoxifying effect. As this one is always on demand at every store, they made a lot of it. After kneading, kneading, and kneading on pills all day long, Lecan even started to hallucinate himself becoming a pill.

Two days after that, while they were busy working in the basement, Shira suddenly had a dubious look on her face.

"Oh ho? Someone's here. Doesn't seem to be the lord's messenger though. I wonder who."

Lecan has detected the visitor as well.

"Weird. Think I know this person. But there's no way she'd get to this place."

The two paused working and went above ground.

"Open up! Open uuuup. I beg you, please open this door."

"Might be better to leave her be."

"You know her right? Don't you think that's too cold."

"Guess she'd knock the door down if we leave her alone."

"Go open it up."

Eda was standing outside when Lecan opened the door.

"Finally meet you!"

"What do you want."

"Let me inside please."

"This isn't my house."

"It's the apothecary Shira-san's right?"

"...What are you here for."

"No well, I wanted to see you, see. So I went to Aira at the Adventurer Association and then she said I'd find out if I went to apothecary Shira-san's house. She even drew me a map."

"I'm amazed you managed to make your way here."

"Took me two days."

"I see. Must have been hard. Well then."

"Stop! Don't close the door."

"Oh let her inside. I'll go get tea ready."

"T-thank you very much ssu."

"You."

"W-what now."

"So you can talk like that."



10



"So you were looking for me to teach you magic."

"I want you to teach me how to learn magic. This tea is really good ssu. Shira-san, you're really good at making tea ssune."

"Oh is that true. I'm glad to hear that."

"I have no clue how to teach someone magic, nor can I point you to someone who can. Go home."

"How about you try teaching her."

"Shira-san, I'm really happy ssu."

"Lecan. You can learn many things by teaching others. You will obtain many new magic from here on. But that's only on the surface. By teaching others, you will notice things you cannot notice on your own. It may look like a waste of time in a roundabout way, but doing so will ultimately pave a shortcut toward bigger meaningful things."

Shira ordered Lecan to teach Eda magic.

Lecan had no choice but to reluctantly agree to it.

"So, Eda-chan. You must be mainly taking service quests, aren't you."

"How'd you know?"

"Which means, you must be busy in daytime. Come here in the evening every day."

"Here? Again? Wonder if I could manage..."

"You must not practice magic in any other place than here. And you must not tell anyone that you're learning magic. This is something far bigger than you could ever imagine. Things would turn messy if people found out about it."

It was Lecan who told Eda to learn magic.

However, this girl looks like she's got an extremely low learning capacity.

There's no way she could learn magic, such was his hunch.



11



They finished with the medicine-making for that day and thus, Lecan began teaching Eda magic.

He had to verbalize the sensation he felt into words when it came down to the actual teaching. And it was more difficult than he had ever expected.

While recalling how and what Shira did and said when she was teaching him, Lecan made an attempt to convey how it felt to cast magic.

Eda was desperately trying as well, but there was absolutely no hint of magic getting activated to the end of the day.

However, there was one thing that Eda managed to instantly pull off.

When Lecan climbed up the stakes on his way back, Eda imitated him in no time at all. Climbing up stakes hammered in a wall using only your feet may look simple, but it's actually not. Even Lecan had to borrow the power of <Gust> at the last spurt when he first did it. The fact that she pulled it off without any problem on her first try means that she's got an extremely agile body.

The next day, Eda came slightly earlier than the agreed time, before evening.

When Lecan and Shira were done with their work and went to Jericho's room, the two were playing together in harmony.

"I brought Jericho's favorite fruits. And Jericho shared his special snacks for me in return."

Eda was full of motivation, but she couldn't cast magic either that day.

They finally finished preparing cure-all that day.

From tomorrow on, they would begin making preparation works for later time instead of making medicines.

In other words, in preparation for when they got other ingredients, they would be turning herbs into powder or liquid and put it into pots. The work of dividing and putting the exact amount into small pots needed quite the patience.

On the fifth day after Eda started learning magic.

Poof, <Lamplight> was cast.

Eda stared at the light at her fingertip like she couldn't believe what she saw.

That light fizzled out, she chanted the spell again.

A light lit up once again.

Eda burst into tears. Jericho held her shoulder while patting her back. Eda hugged Jericho and bawled out.

"I-I. The first time. This is the first time I succeeded at something someone taught me. And, and it's magic. Magic! I-I'm not a good-for-nothing. I-I'm a mage!"

She was pushing her tears and snot filled face against Jericho, but Jericho gently hugged Eda back without looking disgusted in the slightest.







Previous Chapter

Shikkaku Mon no Saikyou Kenja Chapter 253


Chapter 256 Strongest Sage, Finishes Training

 




About two months since we started training.
I checked out the girls' magic control after our usual training... And made a declaration.

"Alright, today marks the end of our magic control training."

"Eh... Are you sure we're fine already?"

Ruli sounded surprised when she heard me.
Looks like Ruli herself is still not aware at how much stronger she's become.

"It's fine... I cannot absolutely guarantee your safety in the fight against Grevil of course, but we've done everything we can. It's perfect for now... Iris you've gotten quite good with your human form as well."

Ruli and Alma can now wield better quality mana, and have trained in many things, from reducing mana consumption to strengthening their magic foundation.
The Ruli now can probably beat a bunch of 10 Ruli before training gathered together.

Iris is far better at moving her body now as well.
Of course, she's still relying on brute force like always, but there's a huge difference between being able to employ [Effective Brute Force] and not.
The current Iris has slightly mastered this [Effective Brute Force].

These three have shown more than enough improvements from their training.

From here on, they will have to gain years of experience in practices and real battles before they see any more improvements.
Only one month left before the fight with Grevil.

Doing any more training would barely bear a fruit now.

"Which means... We're making our weapons next?"

"No, we're going to use what we have now for our weapons. Ruli may be able to make better weapons as she is now... But it's better to use weapons you are used to in an important battle like this. No matter how powerful a weapon is, you can't simply entrust your life to one you're not used to."

If only we had three more months, it would be different.
Changing weapons you'd entrust your life on just can't happen in one month.

They already have their hands full getting used to their own mana after raising its quality.

"So then, what?"

"We're raiding them. The sooner, the better. Our opponent isn't just sitting around twiddling thumbs while we're making preparations after all."

If we can't get any stronger with the remaining time we have, we should go and jump into the fray.

To begin with, a situation where the enemy patiently waits for you is not in the least normal.
The reason why they're giving us three months may be because they need to prepare for something in that time span.

At any rate, we should initiate the attack as soon as possible.

"N-now...?"

"Yeah. Fighting monsters won't be of use in a battle against demons after all... I will personally fight Grevil 1-on-1 alone. You girls will be fighting demons in the meantime."

The fight with Grevil is not a fight where sheer numbers will make any difference.
Unfortunately, the girls likely won't be able to keep up with it.

If Grevil were gunning for the girls, I'd go and forcefully turn his attention away... but it doesn't look like he's going to do that.
If his objective was simply to kill, he would have employed the massive amount of killing machines left by the ancient civilization.

Even without those, it would be simple for Grevil himself to locate our position and launch an attack.
Since I'm not always around the girls 24/7, they could have been targeted during those times I wasn't around.

...Grevil's goal is not our death.
Yet that doesn't mean that we will be safe.
Regardless of Grevil's intention, the demons around him would definitely go for the kill.

And it's demons allied to that Grevil.
They can't possibly be weak.

...And since Grevil's objective is a complete mystery, there is no guarantee that he won't suddenly change his mind and target the girls.
With that in mind, I ask the girl.

"Are you absolutely sure you're coming with me in this fight? This battle will be an overwhelmingly dangerous one unlike anything before... You don't get to fight someone with completely unknown motives like this every day."

"Even so, I'm still going!"
<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>
"Need you ask now! I already said I'd go two months ago, that still holds true!"

"Of course I'll be coming too!"

I was planning to stop them if these three faltered answering me.
But I could feel absolutely no hint of hesitation in their voices.

Looks like I really can't stop them.

"...A certain 『Sage』-san I fought long time ago was 100 times scarier than someone like Grevil anyway!"

And Iris said something unnecessary in the end.

『...That sage, you mean me right?』

I talked to Iris alone through comm magic.
And then Iris replied.

『No, you're mistaken! I'm not talking about Mathias-san, it's Gaias-san I'm talking about!』

But that's the past me...
...Thus while having some silly talk, we all decided to go beat up Grevil.

"So, where is Grevil?"

"Grevil is waiting at... the Leysiard Lake."

"Leysiard Lake?"

"On the map, it should be here."

I pointed at a lake just about 30KM away from the capital.
It was a relatively big lake that existed during my previous life.







Previous Chapter

Shikkaku Mon no Saikyou Kenja Chapter 252


Chapter 252 Strongest Sage, Devil Defeated

 

"How's the repair going?"

"I'm already done with it!"

The repair had finished by the time I got back after defeating the monsters.
I told them it would take 10 minutes, turned out it didn't even take three.

"Thanks for your work. I'm done with my part too."

I looked at the Dungeon Elevator's magic circuit as I said that.
Yup, it's fixed alright.

The other parts are all ancient too, so they'll probably break down eventually... But likely not in 10 years.
Eis Kingdom should be capable of producing their own Dungeon Elevators from scratch within that time span.
After all, the hardest part, that is opening a hole in the dungeon, has been done for them.

While thinking that... One of the adventurers saw the floor boss I was carrying.

"Hey. Don't tell me that black wolf... is it the devil?"

"No I don't think so. This devil is a bunny monster with status abnormal attacks right? This one's just a Floor Boss."

"...Wha?"

The adventurer looked shocked when I said that.
Wonder if I said something weird there.

"No, uh, the devil is the Floor Boss, a black wolf monster though..."

"More than 100 people lost their lives while failing to kill the Black Wolf Floor Boss... It can't be, is that really the devil?"

Can't believe this monster killed more than 100 people...

Perhaps those inexperienced adventurers underestimated Floor 9 and suffered a crushing defeat.
Floor Bosses are strong relative to the floor they're on, so even in my past life, lots of adventurers tried to challenge and suffered defeat at them just because they could beat other monsters.

"Then this one is probably the devil... I mean there's no other Floor Boss here."

"Are you for real... Repairing an artifact and even defeating the devil, just who the heck are you guys?"

"I heard Second Academy was full of monstrous peeps... To think I'd see one with my own eyes..."

...I should have put the monsters I defeated in Storage magic.
Usually I'd dismantle and brought only the parts I need since I want to save on my usable mana.

And yet, I brought the wolf monster whole with me this time.

"I think adventurers who have experience going to deeper floors should be able to defeat this monster as long as they don't let guard down."

"...No, that's crazy talk!"

"The party from Second Academy that had set the deepest floor record might be able to do that though."

Humm.

It may be a bit problematic for the Second Academy to be too well known.
Beating these monsters doesn't have to hinge on Second Academy students...

I get on the Dungeon Elevator while thinking.

"How should I control the elevator? These buttons aren't showing any lights..."

The Dungeon Elevator operator said so while looking at the unlit buttons.
Looks like she's unsure whether it's really fixed or not.

...These buttons aren't lit simply because there's no mana circulating in it.

"I didn't tamper with anything besides the broken part, so you can just operate it like normal!"

Ruli puts her mana into the circuit.
Then the buttons start emitting lights.

Once there's mana inside, [Dungeon Elevator] will draw more from the Dragon's Vein to continue its operation, it should be okay now.

"I-It really worked!"

The operator pushes the button.
Then the Dungeon Elevator moved, and its past unstable and slow performance felt like a dream now.

This is how the real Dungeon Elevator in my past life worked--or not, it's a bit worse but considering how long has passed since then, this is good enough.
It should take less than half the time needed to take us to other floors compared to before.

"T-thank you so much! How could we ever repay you..."

"Please, don't mind about it! It was a fun experience for me too, fixing an artifact of an ancient civilization!"

Ruli happily patted the part she repaired.
Dungeon Elevators aren't really that complex of a magic device... But being able to fix something used by a great many people must have been a boost to her confidence.

...Anyway, now we can head to Floor 27 in peace.

『Alright, let's get training today too!』

『Un!』

『Yes!』





Previous Chapter

Death March kara Hajimaru Isekai Kyousoukyoku 17-2


17-2. Garden Party (1)

 

※[Garden Party] has been split into two parts as it exceeded 8000 characters

Satou here. During my parents generation, it was apparently normal to hold a wedding in a wedding hall with extravagant full course meal.
I had a chance to attend a friend's wedding where we had a stand up buffet in a garden party after the ceremony in a wedding chapel was held. Maybe it can't be compared to an extravagant full course meal, but I remember very much enjoying the freedom to chat with both my friends and their relatives.







"--Phew, finally got a breather."

I'm finally done with greeting people.

Once we were done with the parade which came after the formation of private knights, we were invited to a huge garden separate from the ceremony venue, to be the main guests of honor of a garden party sponsored by the royal family.
I thought that a garden party would mean pleasant chats, sumptuous snacks, and a time to enjoy all kinds of games--.

But I was given no time to enjoy any of that as I got swarmed by an awful amount of nobles trying to greet me.

"Ahaha, that's just how it is for the guests of honor."
"I couldn't have managed it all if Mito didn't took over half of them, you really saved me there."

The greeting probably would have continued until dark if Hikaru didn't take it upon herself to deal with half.

"Satou-san, Mito-san, would you like some fruit water."
"Thank you, Zena-san."

I drenched my throat with the fine grape water Zena-san brought us.

"Meat~?"
"We secured meat from the whole roast for Master's portion nodesuyo."
"Thanks, you two."

I had to suddenly deal with the nobles while I was enjoying the whole roast Oumi cow with Pochi and Tama earlier, hence the two secured some for me.

After patting Tama's and Pochi's head, I accepted the roasted meat on a plate.
The well done roasted meat is already delicious in itself, yet the salty-sweet sauce topping on it brings forth the meat's savoriness multiple folds. It's really good.

"Mushrooms, good."

This time, Mia brought skewers of colorful mushrooms with her.
They look pretty poisonous but apparently they're all just normal mushrooms despite the colors.

"This is good, Mia."
"Nn."

Mia nodded satisfyingly.

When I handed over the plate to a nearby maid after I was done with the meal, someone called for me from behind.

"Congratulations for the formation of your private knights, Sa--Earl Pendragon-sama."

As I turned around while thinking 'there's more?'--the daughter of Viscount Emlin, Rina Emlin, who had been working as a governor rep of Brighton City, and also a member of the private knights stood there.

She was still a kid when we first met, but now she looks more grown up than her age would suggest.

"For someone of my standing to be included in the glorious Bridal Knights--it's, um, the greatest honor!"

Looks like Miss Rina is feeling nervous, she's stuttering her words.

"What are you saying! It's all thanks to Rina-chi managing Brighton that Master could go around freely. Stop belittling yourself with 『Someone of my standing』."

Arisa who slyly hugged my arm chided Miss Rina.

"Nn, good girl."

Mia took my other free arm.

When they're taking the same pose like this, Arisa's growth becomes evident. Arisa who was about the age of an upper grade elementary school student is now about middle school--or not quite, but she's gotten bigger for sure.
Pochi and Tama are gradually growing up as well, but their growth seems slower than ordinary beastkin, perhaps it's a side effect from having too much strength points from level ups.

Whoops, more importantly, I've gotta say my thanks to Miss Rina first--.

"These two are right. It's thanks to Rina-san's effort that Brighton City is seeing better progress than I and Marquis Muno expected."
"Oh not at all! I didn't do much! It's all thanks to everyone at Echigoya Firm and officials."
"And they only come together so well due to the governor rep! Just take pride in your amazing work!"

Arisa whacked the sheepish Miss Rina's back like some encouraging Osaka-borne grandma.
Since Miss Rina asked for my opinion on the matter, "Is that really true?" with upward glances, I smiled and nodded back at her, "Quite so."
Then Miss Rina smiled proudly with a tinge of red on her cheeks.

"Satou-sama, give us your praises too, see we're in our finest attires here."

The pink haired Princess Menea came bringing along Elina and newbie-chan, lady Karina's escort maids with her.
This is the first I've seen Princess Menea in armor, it looks unexpectedly well on her.

There were many opinions about including her as a member, but after considering the fact that she's one of the few people who see eye to eye with Lady Karina, that she has a Gift of summoning magic worth to nurture, and that she's a royalty of Rumooku Kingdom where the Shadow Castle resides, her entry was decided.
Since the Shadow Castle seems like to be a place deeply connected to Demon God, there's a good chance I'm gonna pay it some visits in the future.

"Yes, it really suits you well. You too Elina and Totona, you look fantastic as well."
"Thank you, Satou-sama."
"Ehehe~, yer' making me blush."
"T-thank you so much! I'm really happy!"

Each had their reaction when I praised them as requested.
Seeing that, all members of the golden and silver knights gathered here.

"Master, I too wish for your praise so I inform."
"Masita, me too~"
"Masita... If you could give me as well."

I praised the girls' gallantly cute figures in their armor one by one and enjoyed the garden party together.

Looks like the host knew about their preference, there were lots of meat and sweets dishes.
Most of the dishes Liza recommended me, "This is good", were good. Since this party is attended by nobles, it appears that they're not serving meat tough enough to feel like it'd break your teeth, which is Liza's favorite.
I stopped eating after having enough as to not get myself too full for other dishes, then I tried Chinese-style Yamu Cha Lulu recommended me, and sweets so sweet it felt like my teeth were melting recommended by Mia and Arisa.


<TLN: If you're reading this novel at any other site than Sousetsuka .com you might be reading an unedited, uncorrected version of the novel.>




"Quite a harem you got there, Satou."

The one that came while spouting a misunderstanding-inviting remark was Lady Ringrande Oyugock, the [Witch of Sky Breaker] and a former attendant of Hero Hayato.
Lady Maryest the great mage of Saga Empire and the little sister of late Saga Empire's emperor followed after her.

"--Ane-sama."

Sera who's standing next to me looks hesitant.
It seems like she's still not good at dealing with Lady Ringrande, her elder sister, like always.

Since the elder sister in question loves Sera herself, she hugs and greets her candidly, "I'm back Sera."

"Ringrande-sama, and your highness Maryest. Have things settled down at Saga Empire?"
"Yes, thanks to the high speed airship loaned by you Earl Pendragon, I was able to finally get those provincial governors and personages off their heavy rears."

I'm told that the two got their dress armor as well, but due to the partial destruction of Saga Empire, they had departed together for Saga Empire.
Normally, it wasn't Imperial Princess Maryest's job to take care of since she had distanced herself from Saga Empire, but in a situation where most of the imperial family and important personages of the empire had been lost, she couldn't bear to leave the troubled refugee at the imperial capital alone.

"Oh my, welcome back."

Arisa noticed the two and went to talk to them.

"Maybe we should have delayed the private knights formation if we knew you'd be back this quick."
"We would have taken longer to go back if we went by the plan. It can't be helped. Besides, if I stayed there any longer, it felt like they would make me a new emperor, so I hastily made my way back here."

Due to the sharp decrease of members of royalty and nobles at the capital city, regional nobles who had left the capital are probably trying to amass their influence quick now. The political situation there is probably going to get stormy for a while.

"Won't they try to take you back?"
"There's still a few surviving male members of royalty even if they're positioned low in the succession rights ladder, it should be fine. Some idiots are even trying to make Trimenus a puppet ruler over me, my head hurts."

According to the crown prince Soltrick, the candidate of his eldest son's fiancee, the late Saga Empire emperor's eldest daughter, princess Trimenus has been shutting herself in her room ever since the news about the disaster at the imperial capital perpetrated by Goblin King broke out.
It's understandable considering she has just lost her parents and many of her siblings.

Well, that applies to Princess Maryest as well though.

"Mary, save that for later, don't forget the congratulations."

Lady Ringrande tapped Princess Maryest who was holding her head.

"Satou, congratulations for the formation of your private knights."
"Oh that's right. Congratulations Earl Pendragon."
"Thank you."

I bowed back to them.

"Hey hey, so you two have received the dress armor I sent you right, tried changing into it yet?"
"Yes--True, I should change into that as I'd rather the fact be well known. How about you Rin?"
"If Mary is changing, I'm changing too."

The two agreed to Arisa's suggestion.

"If I promote to people here that I'm one of Satou's mistresses, I'm sure to get a lot less marriage proposals."

Lady Ringrande said that jokingly.

"It's not mistresses, it's members of private knights."

I corrected her since this is important.

"Right, right. Members it is."

Please stop putting on that, "Geez, oh you Satou", face.







"Your highness Maryest, how is the situation at Saga Empire currently?"
"There was a chaos, but it had quieted down in all cities besides the capital when the news about present heroes beating the demon lords and 『Goblin Demon Lord』 at the capital became known."

Princess Maryest who had changed into her dress armor replied to Princess Sistina.

"We owe everything to Hero Nanashi and the Golden Knights. You have my gratitude."

Imperial Princess Maryest made a respectful bow in a female royalty fashion after looking at Hikaru and us.
Even though there are only us four around here right now, a rustle erupts from other people who are looking from afar.

Looks like these two have noticed the fact that we're the real identity of Hero Nanashi and the golden knights.

"Then you'd better thank Hero Nanashi and the Golden Knights, not us."
"I suppose that's right. I have to remember to express my gratitude the next time we meet."

Imperial Princess Maryest readily nodded at Hikaru.

"Besides, I heard Hero Seigi and Hero Yuuki played a role in the demon lords' subjugation at the capital."
"Yes, they were working hard helping to remove debris and calming the refugee even while complaining when I arrived there."

That sounds just like those two.

"Was it really that bad at the capital?"
"Yes, it suffered a crippling damage, however since they didn't find any more people squashed under wreckage, and the bigger debris had all been removed, I am sure that it will return to its former state in a few years time."

I helped with that when I dropped by the capital.
It took me half a day, but doing it the normal way would have taken quite a toll after all.

"Still..."

With a glass of red wine in her hand, Lady Ringrande murmured as if she recalled something.

"To think the 『Goblin Demon Lord』 that was defeated by the First Generation Hero was revived."
"Yes... For the three great demon lords to have been resurrected, it's as if the 『End of the World』 has begun, I don't like it."

Princess Maryest uttered some ominous sounding words.
Please stop raising such a dangerous flag that sounds like it could happen for real.



※ Next update is planned for 2/17







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