Sousetsuka

15-33. The Golden Knights' Deployment (1)

 

※It's not from Satou's POV this time

"Ou, ye finished too?"
"Yaaas, got me some ee-edamame, gonna share 'em with others later."
"Thank ye. Got some smoked cheese in our home, take 'em with ya."
"Lookin' forward to 'em."

The villagers are having a carefree conversation.

This place is one of the mountains north of Shiga Kingdom that goes to the Fujisan Mountains, in the territory of Earl Muno.
One of the villages governed by Viceroy Brighton of Muno Earldom.

"Imma go to the city to sell some cheese, you selling too?"
"Gonna sell some dried fig. Ther' popular cos they said the viceroy's wife likes it."
"Lina-sama ain't the wife of viceroy-sama they said y'know."
"Was that a'ight? Ain't she gonna marry him once she got old enough?"
"Ya, she's pretty 'fter all, an' they said she's a daughter of some upper noble-sama."

Since Viceroy Brighton is often absent, the daughter of Viscount Emline, Lina Emlin is working as a magistrate in viceroy's place.
At first she was just a figurehead, but now she's shown her quick-wittedness, she can govern as a viceroy with no problem.

It's a pity that this fact is rarely passed on to the viceroy, Viscount Pendragon.

Their carefree life was disturbed by the God's Divine Messages.
Monsters that rarely show themselves began to attack the villages one after another.

However, there is no damage to the villagers and the domestic animals.

"Dog God-sama, thank yee."
"Cat God-sama too, thank ya."

The golems protecting the villages took care of the coming monsters, many villages held meat festivals for revering.
The people call and worship the golems as Gods, and the viceroy as Great God.

The Gods are seeking prayers by way of Divine Punishment, but it seems the people in this territory are far detached from that.


◇


"KARI--err, KUNGFU KIIIIIIIICK!"

The kungfu kick of a silver knight sank into the torso of a Hydra that attacked Muno City.
A four headed snake attacks the silver knight who's stopped moving.

Looks like she has successfully sealed her original technique name, [Karina Kick], thanks to the repeated special trainings.

"Impertinent, desuwa!"

The silver knight jumps off the torso and then does a rotating kick with her hands on the ground, mowing down the snake heads.
Another head grew back on the stump of the cut neck.

"Pochi and Tama would be happy if they're here desuwa."

She's sure that they would happily say, "Unlimited meat~?", "All you can eat nanodesu."

『Silver Kungfu! Don't let your guard down! The tail is coming.』

The deadly poisonous tail attacked the Silver Knight like a spear, but a scale-like light appeared in front of the knight right before it hit and stopped the tail.

It was an act that would expose the identity of Silver Knight Kungfu if there were people who saw it, but her special characteristic in the form of her breasts are already too pressing obvious, it just feels too little too late instead.

"Kungfu Spiral Punch!"

Whirlpool of blue light appears on Silver Knight Kungfu's arms, every time her fists gouge the hydra's torso, its tissue is destroyed such that its regeneration can't keep up.
The huge hydra used up all its strength before long, becoming a corpse in front of Muno City's gate.

The army of Muno Earldom is favorably fighting against the other monsters.

While no small feats were attributed to Chevalier Zotol for reorganizing the territorial army and the vice-captain Chevalier Hauto's commands, it's mostly thanks to the magic cannons and improved fire wands supplied by Echigoya Firm and the upgraded equipment and magic swords the soldiers carry.

"Next, it's just cleaning up the remnants right?"

A small dimensional airship that looks like a miniaturized light ship appears from the gap in space in front of the muttering Silver Knight Kungfu.

"Good work. Silver Kungfu-sama. We're going to the next battlefield, so please get on."

A small pilot peeking from the hatch prompted Silver Knight Kungfu.
The pilot is a brownie wearing futuristic-looking flight uniform.


◇


"Good work, Karina-sama."
"T-thank you, desuwa."

In front of the Silver Knight Kungfu--Karina who was resting in the living room of the Solitary Island Palace, her loved one presented her with some sweet yellow orange juice.

"How was Muno City?"
"Y-Yes, I defeated them with no problem."

Satou's line of sight was directed toward the silver ornament she wore.

『The city suffers no big damage. Karina-dono defeated some slightly strong Hydras. We didn't meet any master of dominion class of monsters.』

The one replying was the ornament--[<<Intelligent Item>>] Raka.
Raka's master, Karina is prioritizing the resupply of sugar content.

Her bracelet made a ringing sound when he had her fill.

"Looks like we've arrived at the next battlefield desuwa."
"I'll prepare many things for dinner, please be careful not to get too late okay."
"Yes, I'm looking forward to it!"

While departing triumphantly, the thing in Karina's mind was probably not Satou but the dinner dishes.
It seems love affair still hasn't become her priority yet.


◇


"Monsters! It's a dead-end here so I inform!"
"As expected of Nana ane-san!"
"Wrong so I deny. Refer to me as Golden Knight White so I recommend."

Golden Knight White is holding back the overflowing monsters of Selbira Labyrinth by herself.
By all means, she's not Nana of Team Pendragon.

"Eh, but, that way of talking is Nana nee-san's 'rite?"

The muttering explorer was elbowed by his friend on the side.

"Idiot. Read the mood! --Go for it! Golden Knight White."
"Ain't that right-- yer' awesome! Golden Knight White."

It appears the explorers here have come to a tacit understanding.
And then, the explorers began to attack the stopped monsters like a surging wave.

And, on top of a spire of the western guild--.

"Mia-sama! Large monsters have crossed over the mountain from the Blue Territory."
"Mwu, Golden Knight Green."
"Pardon me, Mia-sama. No, Golden Knight Green-sama."

Boys of various fairykins gave their report while pointing at the southern mountain to the small Golden Knight Green who has confirmed another monster invasion besides the labyrinth's one.

"This is bad. Nagas and Colored Moles are coming from the northern mountain too!"
"Mwu, perplexity."

North and south.

The fairykin boys are looking pale at the prospect of a pincer attack by monsters.

"Nn, decided--"

Since her colleague is fully displaying her defensive capabilities below, Golden Knight Green activates a facility to assist the spirit creation while thinking that being found out poses no problem.

"--Activate, 『Fairy Hill』"

With Golden Knight Green at the center, rainbow colored Spirit Light is released.
It's the same Spirit Light her beloved emits.

"Spirit Enchantment. ■■■■■■...."

Golden Knight Green begins to chant while smiling satisfyingly.
It's the secret art of Spirit Magic--Spirit Creation spell whose use is restricted only for High Elves.

People who have Spirit Seer skill might shed tears if they saw the unfolding scene.
The spire was colored by such beautiful dances of Spirit Light and Spirits.

"....　■　■ Magic Dragon King Creation <<Create Tiamat>>"

Tiamat that looks as if it's composed of light flies in the sky.

"Annihilate the monsters."

By Golden Knight Green's order, Tiamat who's circling in the sky shoots out two breaths, annihilating the monsters at each ridges of the mountains afar.
From the excessive ridiculous power, cold sweat stream down on the cheeks of the girl under the helmet.

"Overkill?"

Golden Knight Green decides not to use it on the ground and hurriedly deport Tiamat back.

The battles on the ground still continue on, but Golden Knight Green who has judged that there is no turn for her begins to play a tune that rouses fighting spirit after drinking a honey-flavored magic recovery potion.

Encouraged by the heroic music, the explorers and the labyrinth army are determined to fight the monsters.


◇


"It's really peaceful."
"Y-yes-s, Lulu-sama."
"It really is, isn't it."

Golden Knight Black, Lulu Watari is looking at the peaceful town and the revived labyrinth below.
For some reason, the brownies accompanying her are behaving strangely.

"E-Echigoya Firm has confirmed that there's no sign of monster appearing from the labyrinth."
"The monsters there are drying up in the first place, it might be better for us to be vigilant of the monster domains instead of the revived labyrinth."

The brownies who came with her on an airship disclosed the newly acquired information beside Lulu.

"Monsters-san aren't coming are they."

Silence rules the place for a while.
I wonder what's wrong, Lulu cutely tilts her head.

After looking at each others, one of the brownie begins to talk after readying itself.

"No no no, that's cause Lulu-sama shot them all down even before they came into view!"

Since awhile ago, Lulu has been tepidly sniping down every wyverns and serpents who showed themselves from behind the mountain with her Accelerated Gun.
She did it so naturally one might have misunderstood, but frankly speaking, it's pretty much a superhuman feat.

The pace is so high even the 20 gargoyles working to gather the dropped materials can't keep up with it.

Lulu contemplated for a while, but unable to quite comprehend the issue, she repeats the same words from earlier.

"It's really peaceful."
"Yes, you're absolutely right."

It must be can't be helped for the brownies' tones to sound slightly stiff.


◇


"Invitation to a tea party?"
"Yes, there is not much time until the time your highness has promised Meltina-sama and Bontenyu-sama."

When Princess Shistina came to her private room in Shiga Kingdom's Capital from the Solitary Island Palace, a court lady who looked relieved caught her.
Princess Shistina pondered for a bit, and then she remembered that she had accepted an invitation to a tea party from her sister of different mother and the second queen.

Usually Princess Shistina would have declined such an invitation, she was confounded why she accepted this one, but then she remembered that they asked her to appraise a rare magic book as a pretext so she couldn't refuse it.

The court lady asked her if she wished to change, she said I'm fine like this and then walked to the salon where the tea party was held.
Court ladies and maids hurriedly chased after princess Shistina.

"Shistina-sama, Sir Pendragon has not returned yet?"
"Yes, unfortunately, Satou won't come back until after he visited the countries along the course."

Princess Shistina replied with an answer she had prepared at the expected question.

"It's really an unusual magic book isn't it? I wonder if this is ancient language?"
"Yes, that appears to be the case. Perhaps the knowledgeable Sir Pendragon could read it?"

Princess Shistina gave an evasive answer, "Well, I wonder about that? I won't know before showing this to him", even while thinking, "Satou who can even read language from the Age of Gods must be able to read this."
Even if she can't read it, she memorizes the characters on the title and decides to check it later.

"Slaying a demon lord is an achievement ranking next to Ancestor King Yamato-sama."
"Yes, it's a great deed done without God Parion's blessing and talisman like Hero Hayato-sama's followers. "
"Shistina-sama has really make a wonderful gentleman hers."

The girls who sneered at her behind her back when they heard her getting engaged to Sir Pendragon, "She's getting late married to some upstart viscount", completely ignored their own shortcoming and looked at Princess Shistina enviously.

"Was that dress given by Sir Pendragon too?"
"It's so wonderful, it looks like Jade Silk, but it's even more supple and--has more mystical luster to it."
"It's like.... the Fairy Silk in the fairy tale."

Princess Shistina's dress is a rare article made from Fairy Silk that only appears in fairy tales, it's the meticulous work of the forest fairy, elves and the house fairy, brownies.
No matter how great an authority one holds, it's something that cannot be obtained unless one prepares to part with wealth enough to buy a country.

Just when the envious stares of the queen and the princess became unpleasant, a retainer came with a bad news informing the arrival of a crowd of monsters on the mountain.

She was going to use this chance to escape the tea party, but unfortunately, her turn never came.
Her golem army didn't even need to fight the monsters, Liza and Tama who got the information from Echigoya Firm--Golden Knight Orange and Golden Knight Pink destroyed them instead.

The traces of destruction at the actual site didn't look like they were made by people, and with many pools of blood left at it.
Mysteriously, not even one body of the monsters remained.

Princess Shistina who got the information from her reconnaissance Drone Golems thought, now that we got the meat, we're having meat dishes at dinner tonight.


◇


"Sera, are you feeling unwell?"
"Head Miko--No, Lily-sama. It's nothing."

The two are facing each other in the Sanctuary of Tenion Temple in Duchy Capital.

Being inside the tranquil sanctuary is enough to heal your heart.
However, according to the story she heard from her beloved, there's a high chance to establish a conversation with God Tenion here.
She can't talk carelessly here.

"What do Gods expect from people?"

Thus, she spun words with a safe content.

『Gods expect for people's devoted prayers and gratitudes for their happy life--however, they have even forgotten to do such trivial things.』
"Lily-sama--"

Sera was going to call Lily who suddenly spoke, but then she immediately perceived that it was the words of God Tenion through Lily and stopped herself.

『And then, they seek greater prosperity each days, be envious of others, and finally become a slave of their desire.』

Sensing sublime divinity from Lily, Sera's thought is filled with awe changing to revere, she couldn't even blink.

『Why are the taboo taboo. Why do Gods who love people conduct such a merciless act. My dear Miko, gentle girl, ask your own heart, seek the answer.』

Before long the divinity that had filled the sanctuary lapses, and she can finally regain control of her unmovable paralyzed-like body.

"Tenion-sama--"

While hugging the unconscious Lily, Sera held deep gratitude at the God who had personally given her troubled self a pointer.












































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15-32. The Golden Knights' Deployment, Preparation (2)

 

Satou's here. I think ending something without a fight is the best. However, I do think that's not the same as not resisting at all. It's necessary to take the appropriate actions against an opponent who invades further the more you yield.


◇


"First, let's start from the most important matter. I have saved most of the general populace, reincarnated and transported people of Weasel Kingom."
"Thank God...."

Sera who looked worried sighed in relief.

"As expected of my--"
"Mwu."
"--our Master, right."

Arisa changed her praise slightly due to Mia's dissatisfied mutter.

Many soldiers and the privileged class who abandoned the people and escaped the cities lost their lives, but since no one asked about it, I didn't mention it.

"All the cities in Weasel Empire besides the capital and Dejima Island have been turned into white salt by the God's Apostles, becoming ruins with no one left."
"You kiddin' me--"

Except for Tama and Pochi who don't really understand, everyone becomes pale.
Only Arisa is composed enough to joke.

"And, only the Temple Knights and Science Corps in the empire's capital have any kind of success in repulsing them."

Sera reproached the people opposing God's Apostles, muttering in a low voice, "How impious....", but I decided to pretend that I didn't hear it since it was something that couldn't be helped for religious people.

"In addition, demon lords manifested near the imperial capital and barged into the battle."
"But why?"
"--Who knows?"

Arisa's question is natural, but I too don't know the reason why.
There were some reincarnated people at the places where the demon lords manifested, so I couldn't help but think that maybe they were forced to turn into demon lords by the God's Apostles.
They probably didn't drink Demon Lord Orb like Shin boy did in Shiga Capital when he turned into a demon lord.

"And mysteriously, even God Zaikuon participated in that three-pronged melee."
"Haaaaa? But why!"
"I didn't ask the reason--"

I shake my head while soothing the peevish Arisa.

"--A wise man does not court danger, you see."

God Zaikuon might tell me if I interviewed him directly, but it felt like I would raise a battle flag if I made some strange connection with him.

"--That's quite true. Better not step on a tiger's tail."

It seemed Arisa remembered the thing she said to me when I went to Weasel Empire, she nodded in consent.

"For God Zaikuon to descend and personally deliver the Divine Punishment.... Unbelievable."
"You're right. My old friends said that the cost for a God to descend was extremely big, so they absolutely won't descend."

Hikaru affirmed Sera's muttering.

"Yes, even in the history of the temples, excepting the Invoke Deity ritual magic, the only record of the advent was 20.000 years ago during the war against the Dog-head Evil God."

God Zaikuon should be killed by the Dragon God 30 years ago, did he not manifest in the world at that time?
Or is it merely because it's not written in the [History of Temples]?

It bothers me a bit, think I'll ask about it to Aze-san when I visit Boruenan Forest later.

The one who told me that was the female intelligence agent in Selbira the labyrinth city, but since she got the information from Zaikuon God's priest who in turn learned it from an oracle granted to a miko of another God, she probably doesn't know much more even if I ask her.

"Then, there was probably a priest that could perform the ritual magic."

The old Zaikuon priest I saw in the slum quarters flash on my mind.

If I'm not mistaken, the reincarnated person who was with him called him Patriarch Bodrazog or something.
I checked and found that him and his sympathizers weren't among the empire people I rescued.

--God's damnation is near! People! Pray to God, ask for mercy!

The old priest Bodrazog was giving that sermon with flaming madness in his eyes.
That fanatic seemed like he was capable of sacrificing his and his followers' lives as the compensation for the God's advent.

Well, whatever.
Guessing won't tell me if it's right or not, and the person concerned is already dead even if I know anyway.

I put the subject back on track.

"And, the weasel emperor became a demon lord and challenged God Zaikuon in order to have the final duel against the God who destroyed his country."

I doubt that weasel emperor would fight from the front.
He's probably going to fight by throwing all the resources he has in hands and do all kinds of craftiness.

"The emperor became a demon lord and battled God Zaikuon huh.... Can he win?"
"I think it's probably impossible."

I shook my head at Arisa's question.

In the first place, the Unique Skills of the emperor who became a demon lord aren't suited for battle.
Even if he uses it with all his wisdom, damaging the God is probably the best he could do.

The [Self Destruct System] that the tactician prepared is probably their last hope.

"That's the situation right now. I don't intend to interfere as long as the God doesn't target here."

There's neither merit nor duty for me to go against the God and jeopardize my friends.

I omitted the matter about my identity being found out by the tactician and the weasel emperor, and the true identity of Tactician Touya as Elf Sage Trazayuya.
I can just tell them about those matters during a chat over some tea later.


◇


"Now then, let's decide on the deployment of the Golden Knights."

I clapped my hands to reset everyone's consciousness, and began to talk about the way to prevent the Monster Stampede calamity news that Sera brought with her.

"I'm thinking of dispatching people to Selbira City and Seryuu City which have labyrinths ahead of time, other than those places, the rescue squad will be deployed whenever we get a report from the branch offices of Echigoya Firm."

I tell and look at the girls.
No one seems to object.

"Sa-Satou-san--Me too."
"Of course, I want Zena-san to go to Seryuu city. Pochi will go with you with her Dragon Steed, Lyuryu, so you should be fine even if a greater demon and dungeon master come attacking."

There are Echigoya Golem units and Zena-san's little brother, Chevalier Marientail over there, and they've thinned the labyrinth's monsters quite a bit, so deploying there a bit late should be alright.

"I'd like to entrust Labyrinth City Selbira to Nana and Mia."

We've also thinned the monsters there and there's a lot of combat forces like the guildmaster and the explorers.
There should be no real problem with Nana's defensive power and Mia's spirit magic.

"U-um, what about Yowok Kingdom's labyrinth?"

Lulu asked timidly.

There's a revived labyrinth in the hometown of Lulu and Arisa that was invaded by Yowok Kingdom.
Even though she probably doesn't have many good memories about the place, she probably would hate it if her hometown is infringed by monsters.

"Right. Someone should go there too. Lulu, could you go?"
"Y-yes!"
"Then, I also--"
"You can't Arisa, I have another duty for you."

The duty thing is a lie.

Arisa and Hikaru can't be deployed outside since I've acquired the information, [People who hold God's Fragment cannot go against God], in the Weasel Empire.
I don't know whether that's true or not, but looking at the abnormal rate of demon lord occurrence in the Weasel Empire, I feel that it's not necessarily wrong.

I'd like to believe that they should be fine with the anti-mind attack items I made for them, but even it's fine against God's Apostles, I feel that it won't quite suffice against God.

Besides, Lulu should be fine alone.

Lulu demonstrates the strongest firepower at long range, but she also has the next strongest defensive equipment after Nana, can use Force Magic up until the advanced level, and has refined her self-defense skill enough to completely handle a Shiga Eight Sword.
She's not standing out due to her shy nature, but she's the all rounder who can fight at multiple range among Team Pendragon.
She's probably going to be fine alone as long as the opponent isn't a demon lord class.

Of course, I'll be sending some brownies and accompanying Golem units with her as a support though.

"Hikaru, please ask Tenryuu to exterminate Monster Stampede if she finds one near Fujisan Mountains later."

I can open a gate that connects to the Heavenly Dragon Shrine and let her talk with Tenryuu from there.
Or maybe I should ask Arisa to connect them with her [<<World Phone Neo>>]?

"Okay! So Arisa and me are in the house-sitting team?"
"Yeah, sorry, but your turn will come a bit later."

Tenryuu and the other dragons should be able to cover the vast [Monster Domain] area along Fujisan Mountains.

"Shizuka too--"
"Okay okay, let's wait for our turn while playing cards here."

Demon lord Shizuka has the important role of extracting the [God's Fragment] from the demon lords that have occurred in various places, so she has to stay here regardless of the reason.

The remaining ones are Liza, Tama, Lady Karina, Sera and the princess.

"Let's change the plan for a bit--"

At first I planned for us to wait in the Solitary Island Palace until we get a report from Echigoya Firm, but since each of them is probably worried about their hometown and places they're related to, I've decided to dispatch them to each of those places.
I can bring them back to this palace with Unit Arrangement anytime anyway, I'll ask Tama and Liza to be the emergency dispatch units.

"--Karina-sama will be going to Muno Earldom which has many 『Monster Domains』 neighboring it."
"I-I understand! I will protect Muno Earldom with all my might."

Lady Karina pushed her fist on her breast and accepted the order.
The demonic breasts are transforming, I feel like they're shooting a dangerous level of charm wave.

『We will not forget to protect Satou-dono's and Liza-dono's posts either.』
"Thank you, Raka."

An attentive [<<Intelligent Item>>] is wonderful.

"Sera-san, please go to the Duchy Capital where the ruin of a labyrinth sleeps."
"Yes, this time I will protect Duchy Capital and its people whom Satou-san has saved before."

Sera stares at me with eyes full of determination.
I feel like she's going to work hard alone, so I tell her not to forget to contact me before things get dangerous.

I'm going to give [Small Light Ship] to the two to assist their movement.
It's a high speed dimensional airship. I leave the steering to the brownie flying squadrons.

"Am I going to the Royal Capital?"
"Yes, due to the frequent disasters in Shiga Kingdom, the populace are most likely anxious. Therefore, please parade around the capital with strong looking Golem Knights to encourage the people."

I can't let her go to the front line after all.

"Echigoya Firm will prepare the prototype <<Hundred Throne>> that can operate a maximum of 1024 non-combative search type drone golems, please use it during the parade."
"My! It's the magic tool for control that Arisa back then jokingly said to appear in 『Manga』 isn't it! How very wonderful!"

The princess who isn't really pleased with jewels and dresses gets into magic books and this kind of romance hard.

The prototype is quite big, so a small airship will carry it.
Since the princess's room is big and the floor is sturdy, it should be able to hold the throne.

In addition, I asked her to search for enemies around the capital after the parade.

"What about Tama~?"

Tama asked with a worried look.

"Tama will wait with Liza for now okay."
"Aye~"

I pat the disappointed Tama's head and nod at Liza.

"Don't worry, Your turn will come soon enough."
"Aye!"
"Yes, Master."

I went to Boruenan Forest while everyone was preparing for their dispatch.


◇


"Aze, long time no see."
"Satou"

Having come to the tree house in Boruenan Forest, I felt happy when I saw my beloved.
I gently embrace her and get healed by her warmth.

"Satou-san. Please reserve such a shameful act for when you've gained divinity."
"Hello Lua-san."

If it comes to this, I should've left it at that when Tactician Touya accused me of being God Zaikuon.

--Wait, I can't.

It'll just get found out immediately.

I separate myself and then Aze-san stares at me as if she's steeled herself.

"I really shouldn't tell you this, but just a little while ago we got a notice from Gods during the Sacred Tree Meeting."

Sacred Tree meeting is a meeting where the representative high elves from each World Trees in the world gather.

"It was a notice about the execution of Divine Punishment toward Weaselkin Empire and.... and the absolvement of Demon God's blessings in the monster domains and the labyrinths in the whole world. And we were warned not to tell this and not to give support to the king of every country....."

I see, so that's why there wasn't any contact from Boruenan Forest to the Solitary Island Palace at all.

"Dispatching Light Ships too, giving information too, everything has been banned."
"Then, should I return the Brownies dispatched at the Solitary Island Palace too?"
"No, only the elves were prohibited. We can't put up words for you, but spriggans and leprechauns who are good at fight, and also trolls--"

I put a finger on Aze-san's lip.
I'd be happy for reinforcement, but I want to avoid worsening Aze-san's position.

It seems she's barely ever interacted with Gods, but they're still acquaintances for hundreds millions of years after all.

"Having the brownies there are quite enough."
"But, those children are not good at fighting."
"Fighting isn't the only thing needed. The girls can fight with all their power on the front line precisely because of the brownies' support."

It'll troublesome in various ways if the brownies aren't there.
Putting aside cooking, we've left the brownies to do washing, bedmaking and taking care of the garden after all.


◇


"I'm not sure if Aze knows--"

I asked about the information I heard from the female intelligence agent of Selbira City, "God Zaikuon incurred the Dragon God's anger and was killed 30 years ago."

"Yes, that's the truth."
"Do you know where he was killed?"
"It's probably at the Dragon's Valley or a Sanctuary somewhere?"

Looks like Aze-san doesn't know where he was killed either.

"By Sanctuary, do you mean the same place as the one in the Duchy Capital's Tenion Temple?"
"It's a place made from a torn part of the God World where the seven pillar Gods are living. I think it's similar to the 『Another World (Sub-space)』 Satou showed me before? I have never been there but from what I heard from high elves who had visited there, it was a wonderful place filled with pure air and thick divinity."

I see, so they fought in an <<Instant Battlefield>>-like place similar to the temporary battle area in games.
It must be a place where they can fight with full power without affecting other places.

Right, lastly I have to tell them about Trazayuya-shi.

I ask them to call Mia's mother, which is also Trazayuya-shi's daughter, Lilinatoa-san.

"It's been a while Satou-san. Been awhile! Is Mia healthy? She must healthy right."
"Yes, she's very healthy."

I greet Lilinatoa-san who's in contrast with the taciturn Mia and then get to the subject once I clear my throat with some tea.

"--Toya was?"
"Yes, he was living as the tactician of Weasel Empire known as Touya."
"....I see."

Lilinatoa-san casted her eyes down while talking in a short sentence similar to Mia.
She probably also knows that Divine Punishment has befallen Weasel Empire.

"Thank you for telling me. My gratitude for you."

Her smile looks forced, but I'll leave the consoling role to her husband, Lamisauya-shi.

"Have you told Giril and Dohar?"
"No, I have yet to."
"Then I'll go tell Giril who's in Boruenan Forest myself."

I thanked Aze-san for the offer and left Boruenan forest.

I also have to tell Elder Dohar in Bolhart city, but they probably don't have the leeway to have a reminiscent talk right now either, I'll talk to him later.

When I got back to the Solitary Island Palace, a report from Echigoya Firm informed us of the Monster Stampedes.

"It's growing tense."
"You're right--"

I ponder for a bit.

"--Everyone, listen to me."

It might be difficult to keep the secret while fighting this time.
Although there's no need to actively proclaim it, you don't need to worry about getting found out.

So I tell the girls.

"Is that alright?"
"Yea, if you worry about it and end up forsaking a life you could have saved, you'll be regretting it forever right?"
"Un, that's true but--"

Arisa probably wants to say that it'll make the sightseeing tour harder.

"It's alright. We can use illusion during the tour and we can visit anywhere without problem by disguising ourselves."

It's been proven when we visited Weasel Empire in animal costumes.

I look at everyone and say.

"Now, it's time for the Golden Knights' deployment."

I send the girls clad in silver and golden glittering armors one after another to the battlefields.

At this time, even though I had noticed the contradiction between, the thing little girl in painting told me, "Divine Punishment can't happen unless all the seven Gods who arrived riding on the world trees assembled." and the story about Divine Punishment I learned from the weasel emperor and the slates--I didn't realize the significance of that--.

I only learned about that a little bit later.

--At the day Weasel Empire disappeared from this continent.



















































Previous Chapter

Chapter 4 Villagers' Welcome

 

Dusk. The western sky turns red.
After sleeping outdoors several times inside the forest, we finally came out of the vast forest.
She told me many things during the walk.
This world, the geography of each nations, history and the pantheon. And the menace of the demon king and the hero system.
Right now we're heading south where the royal capital is located.

However, I felt the extent of the demon king's influence as I listened to her story.
It seems no true hero has appeared for 100 years.
There were some strong heroes, but every one of them were killed by the demon king instead.
I can't help but think it's strange.
There might be a reason why the demon king can't be defeated.
Looks like I need to delve it in detail.


The two of us are walking on a path of a plain with swaying grass.
Celica walks by my side with a smile on her whole face without looking tired.
Her gentle white cheeks are dyed red from the light of the sunset.
"You're really lively."
"Yes. I'm happy just being able to walk with Hero-sama like this."
Celica puts her hands on her cheeks and twists her body. Emphasizing her delicate limbs.
I shake my head in astonishment.


We arrived at a small village when the day was about to fall.
It's a village with around 50 people scattered here and there.
Celica broods it over.
"Let's take a lodge in this village today."
"Yeah, let's.... However, is it safe?"
I implicitly included the fact about her Sinner status.

Celica speaks while grasping the pendant hanging on her neck.
"We should be fine, it's a small village. --Furthermore, I can't let Keika-sama camp outside anymore than this."
"I don't really mind.... And it looks like there's no inn here."
"Generally, you ask the village mayor to let us stay in his house in cases like this."
"I see."
"We might have to sleep in the shed however...."
"No problem, as long as it keep us from the weather."
"Yes, I understand."
Celica steps toward the biggest house in the center of the village tensely.
I followed after her leisurely.


The village mayor's house was an unexpectedly big two-storied building. He might be working doubly as a governmental official.
We met the village mayor in the dining room of that mansion.
He was a very kind old man with white hair and gray beard.

He warmly welcomes us with a smile on his whole face.
"Well well, welcome to our humble village, travelers. Now now, we're having a dinner now. Please have your fill to your heart's content."
"We're very sorry for the sudden visit."
Celica gracefully bowed. Her blond hair hung gently.

I also say my greeting.
"Thank you for letting us stay. Is it really alright for us to even be treated to dinner."
"No worries. Your appearances suggest that you're adventurers. We're thankful enough that you exterminate monsters."
The village mayor laughs with furrowed eyebrows.

However, he can't deceive God's eyes.
I knew that his heart wasn't laughing.
"Now now, please. They're nothing much but please eat up before they turn cold."
The village mayor encouraged us to eat.


There are some crude breads and soup with piece of cut meat inside the bowl put on the wooden table. Appetizing steam rises.
Celica squints her eyes in delight, it's been awhile since our last warm meal.

I ask about the portrait of a woman hung on the wall.
"Who is that?"
"Ah, that's the portrait of Saintess-sama who saved this village from a curse a long time ago--"

"--<<Detoxification>>."
I invoked a spell while the village mayor's eyes were diverted.
The soup shines for an instant. Mine only.

With Celica's character, she probably can't pretend like she's being deceived, so I've decided not to tell her.
Well, even without detoxification, I should be fine even if I ingest the poison since I'm a God, but I don't know the rule of this world, it's an insurance.


Then the meal began.
I eat while soaking the dried bread in the soup.
The taste was simple, but the meat's flavor and the fat weren't bad. It's similar to pot-au-feu with few ingredients.

Looking at the side, Celica is tearing the bread with her beautiful finger before putting it on the soup. Her slender throat is moving up and down.
Her behaviors are that of someone who doesn't suspect anything at all.
Noticing my sight, Celica tilts her head in puzzlement.
"Is there anything wrong?"
"No, nothing."
I resumed easting the soup and bread once again.

◇　　◇　　◇

Night.
We were led to a room with no window deep in the mansion. There's one bed and a sheet made from bundles of straw.
The oiled door is the only thing looking new.
"I'll be sleeping in the straw."
"But. Keika-sama, please use the bed."
"No, I shouldn't fall asleep you see. So it's just right."
"Eh?"
"And also, gather up the baggage so we can leave immediately."
"I understand."
Celica looked at me wonderingly, but she obeyed without question.

After that, I asked someone in the house for some water. Celica wiped her body in the room, but I told her that I wanted to wash my whole body.

I draw water in the courtyard, wiping my limbs.
From top to bottom. Water drip from my simple black hair. The coldness wakes my eyes.
Many stars are scattered about in the sky, beautiful.
However, I can't see the bright moon. It's disappointing, but also convenient.

However, I wasn't just bathing.
I memorized the layout of the mansion while going back to my room.
And then I slept.


Midnight.
In a pitch black room with no light.
When I felt some presences I opened my eyes while still leaning on the straw.
I can hear the deep slumber of Celica.

I concentrate my mind.
Sounds of tiptoes in the corridor and the garden. However, they can't erase the faint vibration.
It seems they're talking but I can't hear them.
"--<<Multi Attentive Ears>>"
The surrounding sounds flow into my ears.

Voices of men.
"Did they fall asleep?"
"They did."
"Is she really a Sinner?"
"The crystal ball shined red. There is no mistake."
This was a hoarse voice of an old man.

A middle aged man asks.
"Won't they get up?"
"It was a sleeping drug for monster. They'll be fast asleep until tomorrow morning."
This was the voice of an old man again, mixed with laughter.

An old man's voice.
"Alright. Someone go to the city and call the guard--"
"Now now wait. Our achievement will be robbed if we call the guard."
"However, they looked like strong adventurers."
"They're sleeping right?"
"That's right but...."
"We'll arrest them and bring them to the guard ourselves."


There's only five men in the corridor. Including the village mayor.
Around 10 men in front of the mansion. There are sounds of armor and metals from this direction. Looks like they're armed.

However, judging from their conversations, I had guessed it wrong.
I thought this was a village where the people kill vagabonds and steal their belongings, but that doesn't seem to be the case.


One of the men chuckled while I was in doubt.
"That babe is a 『Sinner』. She's worth 10 big gold coins. Might even be one pure gold coin...."
"Righto."
A man who's strangely breathing roughly asks.
"He-hey.... Before we take her to the guards, er, we can...."
The village mayor scolds them in low voice.
"Fools, if even one of you have anything to do with a Sinner, your whole family will be slaughtered. The village will be cursed too. Did you forget the terror of that epidemic! You must not put your hand on her."
"Tch, I know I know."


I clicked my tongue inwardly.
--They were aiming for Celica huh.

Celica said that it was alright, but it seems the village has an item that can perceive a Sinner.
By the way, it seems judging if someone is a Sinner does not happen frequently, it's only done when a baby is born or when an outsider comes or when you're studying to be a priest.
We were found out because we were outsiders this time.


Still, they're not letting people to get their hand on one even though the Sinner will be killed.
They're probably afraid that a child might be born.
A light elemental girl has a high chance of giving birth to a child with even bigger light after all.

That means, all girls with Light element are all chaste huh.
I'll prioritize helping them once I become a hero.


--Oh.
Someone is touching the door. And then opening it without a sound.
Four young men enter first before the village mayor.
Two to the bed, two to my direction. Tiptoeing with ropes in their hands.

The moment they entered the right distance, I jumped!
Thud, thud, two dull sounds.
"U"
"A"
My right hand hit the two's abdomens. They couldn't breathe when I hit their diaphragms.
I jumped over the collapsing two.
I hit the two who were going to tie Celica, robbing them of their consciousness.

The village mayor was going to shout in surprise.
"W-wha--gwu"

My hand was faster.
I wrap the rope that was going to be used to tie Celica on the village mayor's neck.
"U, ga"
The village mayor is desperately trying to take off the whip-like coiling rope with his fingers.

I move like a wind and strike the village mayor's abdomen.
"Gu...."
He falls down. I untie the rope on his neck immediately.
I check his clothes and snatch a key.
And then I tie their mouths and arms with the rope they brought themselves.


After that I take our baggage and lift Celica who's sleeping like a blond princess--
"It's a bit hard to move."
Her head would likely hit the wall or door if I carry her with bridal carry.
I put her on my back instead. I felt soft round sensations on my back. They really are big.

"Unya, munya.... Grandma, nandesuno...."
How much of a princess this girl is.
I left the room while feeling her cute sleep breathing.
I close the door quietly from outside.


I go to the back since there's 10 armed men in the courtyard. I've checked that there's an unused door there.
Since I've memorized the layout, I can walk without being lost even with no light.
Walking with bare feet.

I was never going to fight. I fully intend to escape.
Of course I can instantly end it, mere villagers they are, if I want to.
However, since they're armed I might make a mistake at holding back and some of them might die. They're probably going to use magic too, all the more dangerous.


--If I was still the same as the me in Japan, I probably would have flood the whole village with mud in anger.
While saying it was a blasphemy against God.
However, that's not good. I won't be able to become a God if I repeat the same thing.

Becoming a hero is my first priority now.
If I'm burdened with the stigma of murder, I will lose the qualification to become a hero.
It will ruin this easy live toward divinity.
Do it gently. Don't get angry, me.

--Well I'll ask for the payback in full once I've become a hero though!


I walk while suppressing my footsteps and concentrating my ears.
Presences inside the house. Suppressed breathing of people.
Children and women are holding their breath in their own room.
There's no obstacle in the route.
However, it's only a matter of time before they realize.
I've to hurry.

I arrived at the back door. Dust and junks are piled up in front of the door.
I open the door with the key I snatched from the village mayor.
Putting some strength, I quietly push it--.

SCHREEECH--!

An awfully loud sound resounded in the darkness of the night.

--Darn!
It must have rusted since it was never used!

The air in the mansion completely changes. Rustling sounds are resounding.
"Did you hear a sound?"
"From the back."
"Someone go see it."
About five footsteps went toward the back.


"Eeey, damn!"
I went outside while cursing.
To the opposite of the footsteps.

I run through a narrow path.
Celica is swaying on my back. Her blond hair is tickling my neck.
I'll use God's Power to raise my speed once I arrive at a place outside the villagers' eyes.
Because they'll think I'm a monster if they see me using God power.


However, I heard shouting from behind.
"They ran away!"
"Over there!"
I saw several villagers chasing us when I looked back.

--Damn, they found us already!
With this I can't use God power until I shake off the villagers.

I had no choice but to run away while carrying Celica on my back.
I leave the village and run in a gentle plain.
To the south where the royal capital is.

































Previous Chapter

Update: now official from the author's mouth! http://mypage.syosetu.com/mypageblog/view/userid/282802/blogkey/1585605/


As per title, source: the fourth volume of the manga
Credit to the commenters and https://twitter.com/IEEE80211/status/806396334584512513 , thanks for the tips!

15-31. The Golden Knights' Deployment, Preparation (1)

 

Satou's here. I've seen manga that inform the readers with [This is ●●] as the title on the first page. I wonder if there would be people who mistook it for another work if that wasn't written?


◇


"Master, so intense! At this rate I'll break."

Slender legs are wrapped around my waist, voluptuous hills are pushed on my face.

"Co-Core Two."
"Master, Master, Master."

I pat Core Two who seeks me maddeningly.

"""GUILTY"""

Arisa and Mia separate Core Two away from me.

"Master, Master, Master."

Core Two is frantically stretching her arms toward me even while being pinned by Hikaru and Lulu.

I stare back at her bewilderingly.
I received Core Two's intense hug the moment I got back to the Solitary Island Palace with Unit Arrangement, thus I don't know why she's like this.

"What's wrong, Core Two?"
"Master, Master, Master."

Since she can't give any meaningful reply, I ask the girls for the situation while grasping her hand.

"Do you know what this is about?"
"Well? We had just gathered here after pausing the sea fishing contest because the brownies told us that Core Two seemed strange, so we don't really know."
"Maybe something's happening at Dejima's Dungeon?"

Following Arisa, Hikaru gave a reasonable opinion.

"Right, I'll go see it for a bit."

I use Unit Arrangement to move to the <<Dungeon Room>> of Dejima's Labyrinth.

"--What?"

The Dungeon Core is flickering intensely, the room is basked in red and blue light.

"Report the current situation!"
『Master, someone, is.』

The Core answered intermittently.

『From outside, i-invading, m-me.』

Apparently, the dungeon is getting hacked.
The hologram window displayed by the Core shows the current information of the labyrinth.

"It's trying to make the monsters go on a Stampede outside the labyrinth huh."

I'm guessing so from the displayed information.

"Oh no~?"
"It's a pinch-pench nanodesu."

When I looked at the direction of the familiar voices, I saw Tama and Pochi looking up at me from my shadow.
When their eyes met mine, they sank down into the shadow until around the eyes with a [We got found out] expression.
Looks like Tama followed me here with Shadow Ferry.

--Right then.

"Private Tama, Private Pochi! This is an emergency mission!"
"Aye!"
"Nanodesu!"

When I said that, the two jumped out of the shadow and waited with shupin poses.

"Annihilate the monsters overflowing from the labyrinth's entrance!"
"Aye aye Sir~?"
"Roger nanodesu."

I move the two to a small shrine near the labyrinth's entrance with Unit Arrangement.
The labyrinth and the labyrinth island are under my rule, so moving on them is an easy task.

Alright, now the monsters have been taken care of.

『Mas, ter, su-support, pl-easesese』
"Got it."

I touch the Dungeon Core and directly connects to the Core's consciousness.

『<<<OBEY>>>--contradict with Master's orders.』

The state of someone's will fighting against Core flew to me.
It seems it's [Master] instead of [Goshujin-sama] inside Core's mind.

『<<<OBEY>>><<<PROVIDENCE>>><<<OBEY>>>--I-I won't ob-ey.』

Just as Core's said, the Dungeon Core seems to be under a heavy load.

"Core, turn the one connecting from outside over to me."
『<<<OBEY>>><<<SUPERIOR>>><<<OBEY>>>--Yes Master.』

After a light headache, the arrogant voices reached my mind directly.
A choice, [Requested by a being of higher-order. Do you want to obey?] and YES/NO, appeared in the edge of my vision.
Of course it'd be no, but I'm not going to choose just yet.

This comes from some manga or anime--

『Only people who are prepared to get hacked hack.』

--Or so.

It might be a bit different, but it mostly sounds like that I think.
I trace back the faint Magic Essence that flows in the Dragon Vein.

It's quite far.
After going through several Magic Clumps, Miasma Caverns, and Sources, it's even further than those.

It's like a cracker that attacks through several network servers.

『<<<INSOLENCE>>><<<OBEY>>><<<TABOO>>>』

It seems the other side sensed that they were being traced back, threatening will streamed from the source of the interference.

It feels like the divine messages I heard in Makiwa Kingdom.
If I have to say it insolently, it [stinks of Gods].

"Irritating."

The unpleasant noise-like feeling in my mind was wiped out by that single word, and then I continue the trace with my cleared mind.

--Selbira's Labyrinth?

No, it's still even further.

When I pursue that further--.


◇


"It fled huh."

The line was abruptly disconnected.

The trace I pursued completely disappeared there.
The Dragon Vein or Source it used to connect was probably physically destroyed.

『Master, thank you for your aid.』
"Nah, this much is nothing."

At this rate, there's a high chance that the other labyrinths are going to be forced into doing Stampede.

"Core, with my authority as the Dungeon Master, cut off the connection to the Dragon Vein. You're prohibited from reconnecting until I give you the permission."
『The connection has been cut off. 16 days remaining until Magic Essence is exhausted.』

Fumu, I thought Core would reject me, but it's expectedly obedient.

"What happens when you run out of the Magic Essence?"
『The Dungeon Core will enter Sleep Mode, all activities of the labyrinth will stop. This includes the volcanic restraint.』

That reminds me, the labyrinth here does that eh.

『It is possible to extend the active time to 721 days if the volcanic restraint is suspended. Would you like to suspend the volcanic restraint?』
"No don't."

If the volcanic activities resumed, the labyrinth island will become uninhabitable, and it should have a big effect on the crops and fishing industry of the the nearby Dejima Island.

I ponder a bit--.

"I'll bring Magic Essence from another place with Space Magic. It's a bit thick, and the flow rate is strong, but endure it."
『Yes Master』

Please, stop mixing shyness in your thought when you have that synthetic voice.

I connect to the Magic Essence convergent in the Elemental Stone Refinery in the Void Sky with space magic and pour it to the Dungeon Core straight.

『Master, amazing, Master, Master, be gentler, Master, I'm breaking, Master.』

When I heard the entreating coquettish voice of Core, I understood that Core and Core Two have the same personality.
The voice stir up my sadistic side, but I'd feel bad bullying it so I suppress the rate of flow to half.

While I'm at it, I also charge the holy swords used for magic storages that I've been neglecting.
The amount of Magic Essence is plentiful in exchange of the slower flow rate, so I charge 100 holy swords at once.

It has become much more easier to do it than when I was charging with my own hands.
Thanks to that I forgot to recharge though.

"Finished~?"
"Mission Complete nanodesu."

Tama and Pochi came back just when I started the magic charging.

"Little meat~?"
"The monsters here are all kananomo, it's no joy nodesu."

Kananomo? Did she mean Kanamono (metal utensils)?
Certainly, most of them are golems and monsters with no substances, there's only a few that are edible.

"Salamander~?"
"Pochi caught a Dungeon Crocodile nodesu."

Pochi and Tama fill the room with bodies of monsters on the floor and look up at me with a "praise me" face.

"What a big catch. Should I make hamburg steak of Dungeon Crocodile and Salamander for the lunch today?"
"Great~?"
"Pochi is very very happy nodesu!"

When I suggested that while patting their heads, the two jumped up in joy.
I've made it so that Core can cut the charging connection through space magic itself, so I can leave it to charge by itself.

"Core, cut the connection once you've charged enough magic power."
『Y-yes, Master, ah, Master, haahaa, Master.』

Core's reply was amorous somehow.

"Don't forget to contact Core Two when your magic power has been depleted to half."
『Yes Masteeer』

Will it really be alright....

I've set a method for safety just in case.
I suspect that Core would try to charge magic power until it broke somehow.


◇


"Welcome back, Satou."
"Sera has requested her return from Duchy Capital."

When I got back to the solitary island palace, the girls welcomed me with complicated faces.
Arisa reported in a business-like manner while averting her eyes from the object on the floor.

Lulu's and Liza's faces are red.
When I look at Princess Shistina, she averts her eyes with reddened face.

It was probably because they saw the antics of the object on the floor, Core Two who's lightly breathing with an expression like she's just done it.
She must have been connected to the Dungeon Core and directly received the sensation from over there.

It seems a woman with such an appearance is still within the limit for Demon Lord Shizuka, her loose lips are just slightly loosened.
I'd like to believe that she doesn't have any strange thought for the girls here.

"Mwu?"

I pat the head of Mia who's nursing Core Two while looking like she doesn't really understand and bring everyone besides Core Two to the living room.
I'll leave Core Two to the experienced married brownies.

"How was over there?"
"Wait, before that, I'll call Sera-san and the others back here first."

After confirming with Sera, I called the three dispatched to the Duchy Capital back here with Unit Arrangement.

"We're back."
"Good work."

I wait for the three to sit on the sofa and continue the talk.

"Please report your situation first."
"Yes, allow me to tell you the conclusion first of all. The Gods are 『Giving the divine punishment to Weasel Empire, and for the surrounding nations' sins of being negligent to monitor Weasel Empire--"

Arisa and Hikaru began to boo when Sera got to the [sins of being negligent to monitor].
I agree with them, but we can't continue like this so I silence them.

"Will be given similar punishment』, so it's said. When I asked what kind of punishment it would be, another oracle descended, 『The effect of the Blessing that holds back the monsters in one place will be annulled』."
"What is 『Blessing that holds back the monsters』, so I ask."

Nana who had the same question as me asked.

"It's a Blessing that keeps monsters from coming out of the Monster Dominions and Labyrinths through God's authority."
"Is that a Blessing?"
"Yes, it is not commonly known, but we're taught that in the Temples."

Sera replied Arisa's question with the face of a clergywoman.

"Isn't the Miasma density the reason why monsters don't come out of their dominions and labyrinths?"
"Un, the scholars from my time also postulated such thesis."

Princess Shistina and Hikaru raised an objection at the temple's common sense.

"T-that shouldn't be--"

Denied of her doctrine, Sera immediately reacted and stood up.

"Calm down, Sera-san. I don't think Sera-san is telling a lie."
"Satou-san."

I calm Sera down and make her sit again.

"I think the fact that monsters prefer places with high miasma concentration is true. However, populated areas, slums and graveyards are also places with high enough miasma concentration."

I learned this after getting Miasma Sight skill, there were stagnated places that resembled the inside of a labyrinth.

"Places with high miasma concentration does not always equal places with monsters, though I can't say that it's certain since undeads sometimes do appear in graveyards."

I wait for everyone to chew the words before continuing.
Excluding Tama, Pochi and Lady Karina who looked sleepy from all the difficult talk, the other girls seemed to understand.

"In other words, I think a power that attract monsters to labyrinths and magic lumps does exist."

Leaving aside as to whether that's a God's Blessings or not--

"And, if the Gods have some kind of mean to erase that power, there's a high chance that Stampedes will happen in various places."

--Stampedes are certain to happen in various places.

However, I can't confirm whether the ones who hack Dungeon Cores to cause the Stampedes are the Gods.
It's very gray.

"Oh no!"
"Nanodesu!"

Tama and Pochi reacted to the word Stampede and stood up on the sofa.
When Liza made a "Zip your mouth" gesture at them, the two quietly sat back on the sofa at the same time.
For some reason, they're taking the [Shellfish pose] by hugging their knees and rounding up.

"Of course Golden Knights will deploy right?"
"Of course."
"Alrightt!"

When I affirmed Arisa's question, she stood up on the sofa like Tama and Pochi earlier and raised her fist to the sky.

"--Arisa."
"Nay nein."

Losing to Lulu's sad line of sight, Arisa took the shellfish pose beside Tama and Pochi to reflect on her action.
Lady Karina looks like she wants to join in too somehow, but please hold yourself back because that's not a pose a young lady should take.

"Now then, before the Golden Knights deployment, I want to talk about the Weasel Empire I saw."

After I said that, everyone straightened themselves with a serious face.
Of course, that included the three who had become shellfish.





































Previous Chapter

Chapter 3 I Will Become a God in this New World!

 

Warm sunlight is hitting us from above.
At the nook of the forest's open space, the blond female knight--Celica finally calmed down.
Yet her blue eyes are still filled with tears and her slender fingers are grasping my Wafuku tightly.
Doesn't seem like she'll let go of it.

The girl cries with a spoiled voice and upturned eyes.
"Sob. ...herosamaa"
Stumped, I sighed.
I should tell her now that she's calmed down.

"Ah, sorry. I, er, I don't plan to become a hero."
"E...! But why! Even though you're so strong!"
"No, that's probably because he was just too weak.... Thus I've already granted your wish. I will be returning now."
"What are you saying! That monster was one of the demon king's four devas who ruled the area around here! Ordinary men can't even hope to touch him!"
"You kidding me. Unbelievable."

I look at the body of the fallen rock giant in the open space with <<Truth Sight>>.
His Status appears.

--------------------
【Status】
Name: Greyhades
Gender: Man
Age: 283
Race: Rock Demon
Job: Supreme Commander of the Demon King's Eastern Army
Class: Great Warrior Lv 99 Commander Lv 3
Element: 【Darkness】

【Parameters】
Strength: 900 Growth Limit 999
Agility: 850 Growth Limit 999
Magic: 288 Growth Limit 800
Wisdom: 014 Growth Limit 200
Luck: 040 Growth Limit 100

Vitality: 8750
Willpower: 1510

Attack: 5300
Defense: 3450
Magic Attack: 0576
Magic Defense: 0028

【Skills】
Swing Down: Simple big damage
Fissure: Simple damage +  Ranged bind
Storm Down: Ranged attack
Blast Wave: Ranged fire damage
Impact Death Press: Ranged instant death attack

Mighty Guard: Null physical and magic attacks

Knock Down: Drop the opponent's weapon
Weapon Destruction: Break any weapon at a probability
--------------------

His equipment are missing since he's dead.
But still, this guy is that huh, the type that specializes in attack and defense.
His magic defense is only 28, normally you'd defeat him with magic attacks.

--Weak.
Something like this could become an executive huh.
Well, he was indeed way stronger than humans though.

However, looking at the skill explanations, it seems 【Mighty Guard】 could defend against any physical and magical attack in exchange of not being able to attack himself, and the 【Weapon Destruction】 can seemingly destroy any weapon of the opponent at a probability.
It could have been a bit dangerous if he used these two. A bit.
Well, that's why you provoke your opponent to prevent them from using troublesome tactics like that.
Either way, it's my victory.

Besides, it doesn't change the fact that he's weak.

Because--I look at my own palm.
My Status appears.

--------------------
【Status】
Name: Keika Hiko-no-Mikoto
Gender: Male
Age: ?
Race: All Gods
Job: God
Class: Master Swordsman  God Monk
Element: 【Noble Wind】 【Clear Stream】 【Faint Gleam】

【Parameters】
Strength: 51000(+1000)
Agility: 71700(+1700)
Magic: 91900(+1900)
Wisdom: 21200(+1200)
Believers: 1

Vitality: 613500
Willpower: 565500

Attack: 102000
Defense: 143400
Magic Attack: 183800
Magic Defense: 42400

【Equipment】
Weapon: Tachi of God's Majesty  Attack x2 Magic Attack x2
Protector: Deep Blue Line Clothes of God  Defense x2 Magic Defense x2
Sacred Tree Geta  Agility x2 during actions, The strap can't be cut, Cannot be unequipped unwillingly
Accessories: Gourd of Water Guardian  can hold a lot of water, won't rot
--------------------

The difference is literally orders of magnitudes.
That's why I could win easily.
These are the minimum standards of a God though.

As you can see Gods have no level. Only believers.
The ability values of each believer is added to the God's.


--Oh.
Looks like Celica is a virgin after all. When a chaste woman with 【Light Element】 becomes my believer, that woman's ability value multiplied by 100 is added to mine. A virgin woman who isn't of light elemental adds 100. Any other case adds 10.
That's why bad gods often ask for virgin women to be sacrificed.

By the way, that guy, Amaterasu's total ability values exceed 100 millions.
Jesus's and Buddha's are more than a billion.
I'm like a fly before them.


I look at Celica and say.
"He really was weak. It was not impossible for you guys to win against him. The other demon king's forces are probably like that too.... Well, good luck. I'm going home."
"B-but.... Then what do you want to be instead of hero!?"
"What huh--right.... I want to become a God."
I said that as a joke.
--I can't become one anymore after all.

Yet Celica cutely tilted her head and smiled afterward, saying "ah".
"God? You must be talking about God of Valor!"   
"God of Valor?"
"Am I mistaken? People who piled up great many achievements as heroes are revered as Gods after their death aren't they."
"Eh!"

I screamed in surprise. I couldn't help to.
You can become a God if you work hard as a hero--!?


"F-for examples, what kind of guys--Gods of Valor are there?"
"Um let me see.... Hero Lazan who defeated many sea monsters led by Meteor Whale that was called demon king of the sea, and reclaimed the sea back to humans. He's revered as the protector god of the sea even now. There's also Hero Jared who used tactics to fight and overcome demon king's army many times, now he's revered as God of Battle. Others are...."
Celica said another five heroes.
My cheeks loosened every time I heard one.

I mean.
Everything they did are something I can do.
Becoming a God just by defeating such weak monsters like that one, easy peasy.
100 times easier than working hard in Japan. Difficulty easy.

Moreover, working hard as a hero shouldn't be against the rule created by the Gods of this world.
Well, I probably should visit and ask them once at least.
Just to tell them about my situation of wanting to become a hero.


I bite my teeth and decide it.
--I've gone and come to an easy mode world!
I will become a God loved by the people of this world!!


Celica's eyes are brightened by the various heroes' exploits.
Her beautiful voice is reverberating in the quiet open space.
I put my hand on her shoulder. Twitch, her tension is transmitted to my hand.

I smile like a fraud.
"Celica. That was a joke. --I will become a hero."
"Re-really! Thank you very much! As expected of Hero-sama desuwa."
Celica hugs me tightly. Her arms and legs are soft and delicate but her silver breastplate are quite painful.

I pat her head while smiling wryly.
"You're unexpectedly bold."
"T-that's not true.... It's because it's Hero-sama."
Celica separates herself, blushing while looking down.

I put a serious face.
"However I have one condition."
"W-what would that be?"
"Protect your chasteness forever for my sake."
"Eh!?"
I put my fingers on Celica's slender chin and lift it up.
"Can you do it?"
Celica's face to ears are reddened, her blue eyes are moist.
"....Yes. Hero-sama. I will dedicate this body to you."
"That's the spirit."
I separate my hand, Celica's muttered, "hau", with a sad voice.


I speak with folded arms.
"Still, I'd like you to stop with Hero-sama. Right then, Celica. Just call me Keika."
"I understand Keika-sama... wait, have I introduced myself?"
"A! ...yeah, you said your name."
"Was that the case. Then allow me to introduce myself once again. My name is Celica.... desu. Knight desu. I'm born in the west desu.... that is all desu."
She's speaking like there's something stuck between her teeth.
Some strange birds flew above the open space while making giegie sounds like they were making fun of her.

I glare at Celica whose eyes are half open.
"Ah, so that's how it is. In the end you're hiding something after all the hero-sama, hero-sama flattery."
"Uh.... I'm sorry Keika-sama. There's, um some circumstances about my family."
"Well, I vaguely understand. You're a noble right?"
"H-how did!"
"Well, I can infer that much from your equipment and such. You purposely made your strong equipment look weak."
"As expected of Keika-sama."
Celica's voice is full of respect.
However, I groan, u~n.

Actually it's just because I saw her Status directly.
Her knight level is 5, but there's an unknown Job and Class at level 17. Her age is also 17. In other words, it's a Class that automatically levels up with age.
It would be strange if that Job was not something one has since they were born, like prince and princess.

--Moreover, it's five characters. She's probably a 『Princess』. <TLN: 'Princess' in Katakana, プリンセス.>


I smile at the hesitating Celica.
"Well, looks like there's a lot surrounding you, it'd be a long story. Leaving that aside, I have to become a hero."
"Yes, Keika-sama... I will definitely talk about it before long."
"I know. And, I came from afar just recently so I still don't know the system in this country, what should I do for that?"
"In order to become a hero you have to take the Hero's Exam to get authorization from King Daphnes and the Hero Medal."
"I see. There's no point in claiming yourself one huh. Well guess that makes sense. A hero can become a god after all. --Where do you take that exam?"
"You have to take it in the royal capital of Daphnes Kingdom, Chloe."
"Alright. Let's go to the royal capital first."
"Yes. Allow me to guide you."
Celica walks ahead. Her waist-long blond hair greatly sways.

However, I call toward her dignified back.
"Wait a minute. Are we going to walk in this forest?"
"Yes? That's right--ah! Should we bring the head of the four deva?"
She puts her hands on her cheeks and casually tilts her head. That kind of gesture is surprisingly cute.


Putting that aside.
I ponder for a bit.

We will be welcomed warmly if I bring the four deva's head, no mistake.
However, the kind of 『Sinner』 system has even been incorporated nationwide.
There's no doubt that this Demon King is cunning beyond imagination.
I would attract the demon king's attention if I carelessly stood out.
Using backhanded tactics, they would drop me out of the Hero's Exam.... I can't deny such a possibility.

Or the Demon King might even come to personally dispose of me--that's also possible.
I can probably defeat him easily if that happens.


--However.
Would the people revere me if I just defeat the demon king?
Thinking back from Celica's story earlier, the heroes had to overcame hardship after hardship, and repeatedly saved many people from troubles before ultimately gaining their trust.

Humans forget things easily.
They can forget the favor they received in three years.
In order to prevent that, you have to create obligations of gratitude many many times.

That was the biggest reason of my failure in Japan.
I didn't untiringly sell my name.
Rome was not built in a day.
I should avoid the same mistake!


I shake my head.
"Let's not bring the head. They'll just doubt us needlessly since I'm not known as a hero yet."
"I-is that right.... If that's Keika-sama's wish."
"I also have another reason to stop you."
"What would that be?"
"This forest is vast y'know. It's possible that we can't get ahold of food along the way, so let's bring the things here. He's dead anyway."
And then Celica's face brightens.
"That's true! It completely slipped my mind! I thought that food would be a matter of course.... No, please forget that. Then, let us take them."
She said it like she was a princess who never knew hardships, but I pretended to not notice it.


And so we choose food.
Expensive food and food that seem to last long. It was easy with <<Truth Sight>>.
I've also filled the gourd full of water.

I can actually just fly with magic, but I want to be seen just as a strong human right now.
And also, I want her to teach me about this world.
Talking about that while leisurely walking is just right.


We use the offering cloth as a bag to hold several days worth of food.
"Are you ready?"
"Yes, Keika-sama."
Celica answered me with a completely trusting beaming smile.
Even while drawing back by that straight honest heart, I walk in the deep forest while having a pleasant chat with Celica.





















Previous Chapter

Chapter 2 I Will Grant Your Wish!

 

There's an open space as large as a gymnasium inside the lush thick forest.
A female knight is chained on the rock beside a clean spring located in the corner of that space.
She asked me who is a God a request.

"Please--kill me."
"Eh!"
At the surprised me, the female knight spun her words falteringly.
"I wanted to become hero in order to defeat the demon king. I did my very best while hiding my identity. ...However, In the end, I'm still a Sinner. It was an impossible dream."

"But, aren't you being offered to the God? It'd be bad if you die on your own."
She shook her head at my question. Her rich blond hair sorrowfully swayed.
"You're mistaken. For a Sinner to be useful for people, they are to become a bait for the demon king and his subordinates at the end."
"What'd you say--!"


I look at the offerings with <<Truth Sight>>.
Mixed among the 【Specialty Liquor】 and 【Specialty Fruits】 are 【Monster Food】 and 【Offering for Demon King】.

She's not a sacrifice for God!

Moreover--I was astounded at the flawlessness of this system.
Light elemental people who have the power to repel evil are treated as Sinners, and become bait for monsters.
Isn't this the truth why the true hero is never born?


The female knight speaks while touching the collar with her slender fingers.
"I tried to remove these chains, but I wasn't able to. It must be impossible for you too. Therefore, please hear my last request. Before I become a plaything of the monsters--please kill me."
Female knight lowers her head after saying that. Her blond hair bathed in sunlight beautifully sways.

I gnaw my teeth and glare down below.
"Are you fine with that?"
"Eh?"
"Either by monsters, or me, dying here? Is that really what you wish?"

"My wish... is it. --Everything is already over. There's no time. Quickly kill me and run away yourself."
"That's not what I ask you. What does your heart wish. Do you want to die here?!"
"I--My wish is--"


At that time.
A huge man twice taller than me who's 175cm appeared with sounds of breaking branches. His whole body is covered by rock-like skin, his legs and arms are thicker than my body.
He's holding a hammer as big as a car in his hand.
He looks like the so-called rock giant.

The rock giant smiles vulgarly when he sees the female knight.
"Gehehe.... Ain't ya a fine woman looking good to torment with. I'll make ya full of hole in yer' nether region without yer' limbs gehehe."

The female knight shouts with a sad look on her face.
"Aaa! Please run away traveler!"
"Like I said, forget about me. Say your wish!"

However, the female knight pushed me with tears on her eyes.
"Please! You alone must live! Please live until the day hero-sama appears and defeats demon king comes, please!"
"That day ain't gonna come! Gyahaha!"
The rock giant laughed out loud to make fun of her, and then he walks step by step in the open space.


And then he arrived beside us.
He really looks a filthy rock giant up close, looking down on me.
"Nn~? The heck are ya? What are ya doing here? You a sacrifice too?"
"Sorry. I'm talking with this woman right now. ...You wait a bit."
I glanced a bit and then turned back at the female knight.

The female knight is shaking her head like child. Her tears are scattered around.
"Run away! Go while I'm being assaulted--"
"You really are...."
I felt an admiration out of surprise and astonishment.

--Even now when she's about to be killed, she thinks of other people more than herself eh....
It's not only because she's born with Light element, I understand that she's really a kind girl at heart.


And then the rock giant shouted angrily enough to shake the forest. Several surprised small birds fly away to the blue sky.
"Ya bastard! I don't know who the shit are ya, no one ignore this Greyhades-sama, one of demon king's four devaaaaas!! Die!"
The rock giant raises his giant hammer.
With just that, the hammer blocks the sunlight.

"Aaa, run--!"
The female knight pushed me away with her slender arms. She closes her eyes while desperately trying to cover me. Heartrending tears flow below her long eyelashes, streaming down on her white cheek--.

Kaboom!

A strong shock from the hammer.
The soil on the ground whirled up from the wind pressure, the offering liquor bottles fell down.


A sudden silence.

The female knight who tightly closed her eyes timidly open them--and then her blue eyes open wide in surprise.
The rock giant's whole body is shaking with the muscles on his arms swelling while his slit eyes are wide open in surprise. It's clear that he's giving it all.
"W-whaaaat!?"

I've firmly stopped his useless effort.
--With a finger.


While glaring at him from below, I speak with a low raging voice.
"....Wait a bit--Didn't I tell you that?"
Sharp glint in eyes like they're glittering. God's coercion.

"Hi....!"
The rock giant jumped back at once. He retreated to the edge of the open space, he's probably too afraid.


I turn back at the female knight and speak with a gentle voice.
"Now, say it. Your true wish. I will grant you anything now."
The female knight was surprised but her face collapsed back to a graceful one hearing me.
"Ueee....Pl...se. Sa...ve...."
"What! I can't hear you! Repeat that!"

Right at that time, the rock giant who escaped to the end of the open space began to run in anger.
"U-using some strange techniqueeee! I won't forgive ya!!"
He's coming while raising cloud of dust.

The female knight speaks again.
"Sa...v. Still, l....ve."
"Louder!"
After I yelled her, the female knight bends her body and shouts out loud with all her might while tearing up!
"Please, save me! I still want to live more! Uwaaan!"
The female knight cries with a crumpled face.
"Well said. Lemme have the offering."
Saying that, I scoop the tears collected under her eyes.
And then I relax my face and smile.

While drawing out the Tachi on my right waist, I declare loudly.

"Thy wish has been granted! My name is Keika Hiko-no-Mikoto! I will definitely grant your wish!"

I smear the collected tears on the Tachi.
The blade crest shines blue!


The coming rock giant raises his giant hammer.
"Petty trick! Yer' too late to do anything--<<Impact Death Press>>!"
The swinging hammer comes down with a swoosh.
Its swinging speed makes the handle looks like it's bent like a bow--.

I casually hold my Tachi while standing still.
"Abiding by the name Keika Hiko-no-Mikoto, o small streamlet flowing since the age of gods, gather to form a raging torrent--<<Water Demon Slashing Destroyer>>!"

--Giii, zwuaan!!

A dull and thick sound filled the open space.


I casually swung down my Tachi.
The rock giant freezes while still in a position where he's swinging his hammer downward.
Light in his dirty eyes rapidly disappears.
"W-why... how...."

Something small fell to the ground. Like gray caterpillars.
Those are the the rock giant's fingers.

Thud.
The hammer fell and made a big sound.
With the shock of the fall, the hammer's body and handle broke in two.

And then.
Fwooshhh----!
A straight line of blood was sprayed behind the rock giant.
He's split in two from his head to the nether region and falls.

Zwun....
After the heaviest thud, the rock giant fell and died.


I swing my Tachi to brush the blood away.
"Too weak to even talk about."
And then I come near the female knight who's sitting listlessly.
A flash.
With a high-pitched sound, her collar and chains are smashed. Scattering around the female knight.
I slowly put my Tachi back into its sheathe.

The female knight seems strange even though I've removed her binding. She doesn't move while looking dumbfounded with her blue eyes.
"Are you alright?"
I get closer to the female knight whose red lips cutely opening.
And then she suddenly grab my clothes.
Pulling me.

The female knight beings to weep while hugging my abdomen.
"Ro...sama....he....sama."
"W-what!?"
"Hero-sama, Hero-samaaaaaa! --I've been waiting for you, Hero-samaa!!"
She started to cry as if she had caught fire. While pushing her face on my stomach, she's crying like a child.


"O-oy--"
I tried to pull her apart and let her stand, but she refused and continued to cry while shaking her head like a child.
Crying while saying, hero-sama, hero-sama.

She keeps crying no matter how many time I try to tear her apart.
I look up at the sky and let out a sigh.
I continue to pat her fascinating blond hair while letting her weep for a while.



































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