Sousetsuka

【SS】 Hot Sand Extra Hard Training (2) Flying Boots Arc

 

--It was fun.
After playing so much until I can't move anymore, I'm resting on the water bed that Mia's made.
Pochi is also sleeping beside me.

Arisa who's together with Master and Lulu came teleporting in.

"Everyone, is there any place where it's hurt?"

Master asks full of worry, but it's alright.
There is no pain anywhere, I'm only sleeping from fatigue. Everyone replies the same.

"Looks like firing the catapult with the acceleration gate and the deployment of [Shell] to act as the gliding board are going well."
"However, isn't it dangerous if they break their balance like Pochi if it's not in the desert?"
"Pochi isn't hurt nodesuyo?"
"Un, normally people will hurt badly with that velocity even if it's in the desert with the sand acting as cushions. However, the some of the [Shell], besides the part that acts as gliding wings, protects the passenger with thin membrane, so some amount of impact is not a problem."

Master's explanation is difficult nyan.
I'd like for something a bit simpler.

I drink the [Sport Drink] that Lulu gave me and recover my spirit~?
After drinking and giving the cup back to Lulu, Tama plays signal with Pochi who also doesn't understand.

"Then, let's try the Flying Boots this time."
"It's the magic circuit that was used for the False Claiomh Solais back then huh. Have you finally succeeded making people fly with it?"
"It's a different circuit than that one. The fuel consumption is very bad though. This magic circuit is something that imitates the Sky Drive I use."

I wear the pink boots that Master gave me.
The small wings beside the heel are cute.

"When you put magic power into the boots, a force field that will support your body will appear for an instant."
"Aye~"
"Do your best nodesu!"

Nyunyu, it's difficult.
My feet are sticking like kyuu, and fumu. It's like when you fall into a pit hole.

However, it's fine.
Because, Tama is a ninja.

"Oh, as expected of Tama."
"Uwah, you're walking in the sky. You're good~"

Master and Arisa praise Tama.
More, praise Tama more please. Tama grows up with praise.

"Mumwu."
"Ah, I fell! Nanodesu."
"It's difficult isn't it."

On the side, Mia and Pochi didn't do well, their faces crashed to the sand.
Liza seems like she hasn't risen from the ground in the first place.

"Keep at it~"

I cheer everyone while walking in the sky. With [Appare] and [Hinomaru] folding fans I've got from Master on both hands, I dance the [Raisi-ng Up] dance.
Arisa taught me to do this for when I'm cheering.

Aryarya, my eyes are spinning~?

"Are you okay, Tama."
"The sky is spinning~?"
"You ran out of magic power huh. The circuit really still need improvement after all."

Master supplied me with magic power while I was being princess carried.
Since it's become like this already, I'll cheer everyone while we're like this.

Master's arms felt warm, it was full of happiness, I went to sleep.
I, I have to cheer...

--Impossible nyan.
The drowsy person is too strong.

....Good nigh~t. ZZzz.




Previous Chapter

【SS】 Hot Sand Extra Hard Training

 

"Arisa~, How many me~ter~?"
『Wait a minute, it's 1109 meters eh.』
"Wa~i, new record~?"
『That's right, congrats.』

Arisa is talking from beyond the sand dune.
Magic is amazing.

『As expected of Tama nanodesu. Pochi also won't lose nodesuyo!』

I see Pochi greatly waving her hands beyond the sand dune.
With a small [Pohyun] sound, Pochi jumps.

--ah, she broke her balance.

She begun to spin, guruguru bosun, and then she got buried into the sand dune.

After Pochi, Liza and Nana also jump.
Both jump shorter than Pochi's.

Because, they're big.

Pochi who's buried in the sand dune isn't coming out.
I rushed to her anxiously, but before I could dug her out, Pochi pushed her way out, wasa wasa, and came out.

"Peh peh, I failed nodesu."

Pochi shakes her body to remove the sand.
Of course I had ran away before she did that.

"Mwu."
"I'm sorry, nanodesu."

Mia who's been completely covered with sand is pouting.
Pochi apologizes to Mia while brushing the sands off her.

『Pochi, you're 1050 meters. Unfortunately.』
"Regrettable nanodesu."
"Pochi, don't mind~"
"I won't lose next time nodesu!"

Pochi is challenging for a rematch while taking the shupin pose.
Of course, I'll take up her challenge anytime.

Because, Tama is the onee-chan.

◇

I'm having a dashing competition with Pochi to race back to Master.
Mia who's buried in the sand behind us is really angry.

Pochi goes first this time.
She leaps toward the third [Acceleration Gate] ring with the Flickering Movement.

"Uwah~, nanodesu~"

Pochi jumps and spins like before.
She looks like she's having fun.

Perhaps, doing the jumping spin is fun?

I looked up when I felt a gaze, there was the gentle smile of Master.
I reflexively laugh, nipa~

"You can imitate Pochi if you want, but be careful not to talk during the spinning since you could bite your tongue okay."
"Aye aye sir~"

Master sees through everything nyan.
Tama replies Master with Shupin pose, and then goes toward the Acceleration Gate.

Yo~i, don!

I try to break my balance in the air like Pochi.

Spin, spin, my eyes are spinning.
The sky goes below, the ground goes above, it's dizzyingly fun.

Even though Master's warned me, laughter escape my mouth spontaneously.

Ah, the ground is already--

I plunged into the sand dune like, 'Bosun'.
But it can't stop the jumping force, I break through the sand dune, pop out to the other side just like that, and then roll and roll on the ground.

--Fun.
I shake the sand off, exchange a look at Pochi who's run to me worryingly, and then laugh out loud.

Now, once more!






Previous Chapter

Intermission: The Journey of Zena Squad (3)

 

--that is, Dragon.

Something that humans can never win against.

The existence that even the mobilized holy knights from the royal capital were barely able to repulse.

It seems to be a lesser dragon judging from its body size, but there is no point to such classification. If we fight we will definitely lose--no, it won't even be a fight, but a simple trample.

That appears from beyond the haze, glaring at us.
The dragon is doing just that, but it's enough to make us forget to breathe and solidified our body, we cannot take any action.

The actual elapsed time should only be for a moment, but I feel that it's the longest I've felt in my life.
As if losing its interest, the dragon shifts its line of sight from us to the harpy's body, and then he's turning its head toward the haze once again.

I almost fell down from the relief, but even slight sound might attract the dragon's attention. I grit my teeth and endure it.

The dragon was going to turn its body around, at that time--


--A new intruder appears.

『Heya, heya! For I am! The one praised in Shiga Kingdom, the fourth seat of Shiga Eight Sword, Trell the [Gale]! Right now and then, I challenge dragon-dono to a match!』

He's begun to introduce himself to the dragon while circling in the sky while riding the wyvern
Shiga Eight Swords are the strongest warriors of Shiga Kingdom. It seems there is a magic weapon that's even longer than a lance on the hand of Sir Trell who's riding the wyvern.

However, his opponent is too much for him.
It's something powerful enough to fight the greater demon which appeared in Seryuu City Castle alone. If the Silver Masked Hero didn't appear at that time, none of us would have been able to survive.

The dragon collects its power and in an instant springs up to the sky, flying without even doing an approach run.
Its eyes I saw when it was jumping up was glittering like a mischievous boy, it must have been my imagination.

"Oy, Lilio! You've to run now. That goes for the squad leader over there too."

My arm was caught and pulled from behind.

It was Jon-san wearing leather armor who has appeared out of nowhere.
Behind him, there's the woman called Mito wearing casual clothes as if she's "I'm going out for a bit to buy something", she waves her hand lightly when our eyes meet. As excepted she does wear journey boots, but it's amazing how she's wearing those clothes to a place like this.

"Oy, squad leader-san?!"
"Oh right, all members disperse! To behind the rock!"

I came back to my sense from Jon-san's puzzled words, and then ordered everyone.


◇


In the sky, the dragon is fighting Sir Trell like it's playing around. It's as if a cat playing with a mouse.
During that chance we successfully evacuate to the crevice on the Withered Valley's rocky cliff that Jon-san led to.

"Sheesh, there wasn't any dragon when I came here before y'know?"
"Ara? Isn't there a rumor about a dragon in the whole town."
"That's about the sub-dragon thing that likes oranges above the mountain pass."
"Therefore, we should assume that it's the existence that's driven away the sub-dragon above the pass."

Jon-san and Mito-san are casually talking in front of us, but my mind hasn't recovered enough to participate. Actually, even Lilio is only watching the conversation between the two while looking displeased, since she's not in the state to join them.

It seems the dragon is tired at chasing them, it knocks the wyvern down to the ground.
The knocked wyvern is rolling on the ground toward us while getting the withered trees mowed.

"Oy oy, don't come here."
"Ara ara, that wyvern can't fly anymore I think?"

Just as Mito-san's said, the wyvern's arm that supports the wing is broken until the middle part, it's in awful state.
It probably can't fly anymore unless it's healed with advanced healing magic.

The wyvern seemed to have absorbed the impact as Sir Trell who had been thrown from such height was still able to firmly hold his lance while shedding blood.

『O Dragon! I hang my whole life on this spear! Warriors, hand down my deed!』

Red light tingles on Sir Trell's lance, and then the tip of the spear produces light.
Perhaps that's--

"Magic Edge eh"
"That's..."

Jon-san held his breath and remained silent after hearing Mito-san.
Magic Edge is a secret technique that only two people can use even in Seryuu Earldom.

『Now! Come! Magic Edge Rupturing Strike!』

Sir Trell charges toward the dragon while wielding the lance like a cannon ball. The ground he's stepped upon is gouged, flinging dust behind.
While leaving red afterglow on the white haze, the lance stabs the dragon as if sucking into it.

With that technique, it should be able to pierce through the dragon's scale no doubt!

The lance tip is creating intense sparks on the dragon's surface. Yet, the lance tip doesn't even reach the dragon's scale. It's blocked by defensive membrane of light that acts like an armor, appearing before the dragon scale before I knew it.

『Not yettt-!』

Responding to Sir Trell's spirited yell, the red light that covered the whole lance's surface gathered on the tip, and it successfully cracked the defense membrane of the dragon a little.

"Awesome."
"Old man's cool."

Beside me, Mito-san is clapping lightly. I wonder why is this person is so carefree.

『GROUUU?』

The dragon leaned its neck to one side, and removed the lance that had stopped on its scale like someone brushing off a biting bug. Sir Trell who's distracted by the sudden disappearance of the lance on his hand is flicked away by the dragon's hand.
Like the wyvern earlier, Sir Trell rolled on the ground and then lost his consciousness. His level should have been more than 40, yet someone like that is played like a child to such an extent...

The dragon approaches Sir Trell, and poke him with its finger to see his reaction.

"Zena-tan, can you use healing magic?"
"Y, yes, I can do the simple one."

I'm concerned with Mito-san's strange way of calling me, but it's not the time for that now.

"How about something like the advanced 『Cure Stream』?"
"I'm sorry, I'm only up to middle rank..."
"Is that so, then healing bone fracture is not possible."

Mito-san doesn't look like she's dejected by my words, and then after contemplating for a bit, she speaks unexpected words with a cheerful smile and walks out.

"Then, can't be helped. Everyone hides here okay."
"Oy, grandma Mito. Old person's indiscretion is--"
"Is this the bad mouth here~?"
"--young beautiful Onee-san, it was a slip."

Jon-san was going to follow Mito-san who had carefreely gone out of our hiding place, but Lilio-san hurriedly caught his arm and hugged it on her chest. I also tried to stop Mito-san with low voice, but she told me, "It's okay, just watch", with a smile.

"The dragon-kun over there. The game's ended okay~. The old man can't fight anymore, so can you go back to Fujisan Mountains?"
"ZUGOOOUN"
"Ara, it's really no use?"

She took out a stick from a black hole that had appeared beside her.
Is that a wand? Or maybe a flail?

"Can't be helped. Then I'll be your opponent for the second round."

She produces transparent blades and boards around her that look like something created with nature magic. They are like shields that protect her, like spears that eliminate foreign enemies, and like living creatures that follow her every movement.

It's like the offense and defense advanced magic of the Ancient King-sama in the legend-- magic? Come to think of it, when did she chant the spell I wonder?

"Lets get away for a bit!"

The invisible rain of cannonballs that Mito-san has shot hit the surface of the dragon and get repelled away. The dragon who was standing upright when it fought Sir Trell just before looked like it was hurt from this attack and flew to the sky, running away.

--A dragon is running away?

"Then, I'll be going for a bit."

She went to challenge the dragon in the sky by jumping through the sky, as if there were invisible scaffolds in the air. This might be the first time I've seen someone nimbler than Satou-san.

I don't know the detail of Mito-san and the dragon's fight since it's unfolding beyond the Withered Valley's haze.
However, from the screams of the dragon, and laughter full of joy that could be heard once in a while, it must be a one-sided battle.

If people hear about this story, they must not believe it, thinking that it's a joke.


◇


After we've finished giving emergency treatment to Sir Trell, the area around here has become silent as the battlefield may have moved beyond the Withered Valley.

"Hey, just who is that person really?"
"I said I dunno. She was sleeping beyond the hidden door in the depth of the ruin."
"Maybe she was living in the ruin interior?"
"That can't be right."
"Rather than that, can you please be quiet for a bit?"

I close my mouth from Iona-san's words, and listen carefully, I can hear sounds of flapping wings from beyond the haze. So it's the dragon who won in the end I wonder?

"Oy, it's over."

It was the figure of Mito-san waving hand on the back of the dragon. Her other hand is holding a chain produced by magic that connects to the dragon's head as if it's a horse rein.

"I'm going to return this child to Ten-chan in Fujisan Mountains, so this is a farewell. Jon-kun, it was short but fun! If you miss me, you can probably find me in the downtown of the Royal Capital."
"I won't miss you! Or rather, take me along with you!"
"I'm sorry, I can't bring other people to the sacred ground of heavenly dragons. See ya."

After Mito-san said so while waving energetically, she flew away beyond the sky by driving the dragon. Her figure was like the Ancient King-sama and the Dragon Knight-sama that appear in the story of the kingdom found.


◇


In the end, we decided to part from Jon-san and the Withered Valley, and stopped our search to carry Sir Trell back to Fau town.

About Sir Trell, it seems he was going to retire from Shiga Eight Swords due to his old age, and so he was apparently searching for an opponent appropriate for his parting. During that occasion, he heard the rumor about the dragon, so he thought it would be fit to be his last opponent before retiring, so he said.

It seems he never thought that he would survive int he first place, he muttered, "I've failed to die" while staring at the empty sky while the day is fading into twilight. He must be praying for the peace of the wyvern that has died.

About the shortcut search which had been interrupted, we didn't need to resume it.

A few days after this, the sub-dragon has been eliminated.
I've heard hearsay that the one who subjugated the sub-dragon wasn't the dispatched Royal Knights, but the violet haired Hero-sama who wielded the kingdom-defense holy sword Claiomh Solais.

Maybe.... That Hero-sama's identity might be Mito-san.

Thus the dragon disturbance ended, and we were able to resume our journey toward the Labyrinth City once again after we acquired provisions from some kind merchant.

After many mysterious cases, we finally arrived at the gate of the Labyrinth City. The two huge stone statues on both sides of the gate are glaring as if they were the gatekeepers.

This here is the labyrinth city, Selbira.

I'm going to see you soon.
Satou-san!





Previous Chapter

Intermission: The Journey of Zena Squad (2)

 

We've been stuck in Fau city for one month already.

It'd been alright if there were some way to detour the mountain-pass the dragon was occupying, but so long as we can't fly like a bird, we don't have any choice but to go back to Lesseu Earldom and go through the mountains range in the south route passing through Muno Earldom, or circumvent through several small kingdoms by passing through Eluett Dukedom.
It'll take several months to go through Muno territory route, and going through the small kingdoms is out of question. Even though the purpose will be not to wage war with them, we are still the army of Seryuu Earldom after all.

"Zena-san, how about your side?"
"Unfortunately, every store has raised their price compared to yesterday. We really should have bought it the first day we arrived in the city."

Regardless whether we choose to go through Muno Earldom, or wait for the Royal Army to repulse the dragon, securing provisions are important in order to resume our journey, however, the prices have become so bad we can't buy enough amount. We tried to go the neighboring farm villages to buy directly, but some sharp merchants had already bought them all.

"Zena-cchi~"

There's a small shadow waving hands beyond the crowd.
I can't see the figure, but there's only person who call me like that.

Lilio and Ruu who have gone to investigate for the shortcut come back after 10 days. Doing it in the middle of the road like this would surely make us a hindrance, but I couldn't stand it and went to hug them, celebrating their safe return.

"Welcome back Lilio. Did the shortcut look usable?"
"People can probably go through it, but it's impossible for the civil officials and the maids."
"It's hard even for soldiers you know?　Even I gave up in the middle of the way while wearing my usual armor."

If it's impossible for even Ruu who prides herself in her stamina, it's surely something that's harsh for officials-san.

"We also saw the dragon on the mountain pass."
"It's really a lesser dragon?"
"No, that's--"

According to Ruu and Lilio's story, it doesn't seem to be a lesser dragon. I've certainly never heard a dragon which has colorful collar on its head. Moreover, it doesn't have wings. In Iona's opinion, it's, "Probably a sub-species dragon-monster like wyvern or hydra."

"Then if it can be defeated, we can go through the mountain pass right."
"If we're talking about size, it's even bigger than a real lesser dragon, moreover, it can spew out mist-like thing that can melt stones see~"

I was relieved to hear that it wasn't a dragon for a brief moment, but then fell like a withered blooming flower from Lilio's and Ruu's words.

"Do you have any idea why it's placed itself in the mountain pass?"
"Apparently it likes the oranges growing on the pass. It was having a nap while chewing the oranges together with the trees y'know?"

I wonder if it's a grazing monster? Thinking about the feeding habit of the monster is probably pointless since it apparently drank the stones it melts.

For the time being, I suggested them to report to the captain, and then we went to the temporary residence with heavy steps.


◇


When I saw a young man with black hair, my eyes involuntarily chased after him.
Considering the time when he departs, Satou-san should've been around here.

Ara? I feel like I've seen that black haired person--I wonder who?
Lilio who chased my line of sight said, "Ah! Found you!", and then ran after him.

"That Lilio, what's wrong with her?"
"It was the kid who was waving to Lilio when we left Seryuu city before remember."

I remember after hearing Iona-san's words. It's someone from Seryuu city, a one-armed person called Joi, or Jomis who taught me the way to make croquette and starch syrup. Even like this, I'm good at remembering person's face, but I can't remember that person's name or face no matter what.

"Why are you here now when you departed Seryuu city three months ago? Didn't you said that you'd make it big in the labyrinth city?"
"Didn't I say that the plan was undecided? I heard that there was a ruin on the verge of Zetssu Earldom see, so I went there to have a look."
"Did anything appear?"
"You can say something did, and did not appear."
"What's with that-!"

Lilio and Jo-san's conversation continues without a pause. Even though Lilio should have been tired from the investigation, she seems to be enjoying their conversation while smiling lively.

"It's said that even goblins can't eat a couple's squabble, so let's leave these young couple and report the shortcut investigation to Captain Henz."
"You're right. Feel like I'd get a heartburn if I remain here."

We waved our hands to Lilio and went back ahead to the barracks to report.


◇


"Another shortcut? Is there something like that?"
"Un, according to his story, looks like there's one."
"But Lilio. Even the soldiers-san of this city said that there was only one shortcut didn't they?"
"You see, there seems to be a road that goes pass the valley where the dragon-sham from before resides, see. Carriages can't pass through there, but the slope is gentle so it should be better than the the other shortcut."

Everyone becomes enlivened with the information that Lilio carries when she gets back as the night advances. Since there's a possibility we can break the current situation.
Knight Henz was looking like he would immediately charge to the valley, but his retainer skilfully arbitrated him, and then it was decided that we should send a scout unit first.

However, why does everyone look at me?
--I feel a bad premonition.

After clearing his throat once, Knight Henz ordered, "Then, I entrust Zena Squad to investigate the valley." Of course we do not have the right to veto it. After receiving the mission, we began to prepare the investigation.


◇


The next morning, in order to hear about the shortcut from Lilio-san's boyfriend, we went to a restaurant in the downtown.

"Then, the problematic places during the journey are the valley where harpies are nesting, and the rocky area that springs up slimes?"
"Yeah, there are other places where monsters come out, but judging from what I've heard from Lilio, you guys should be able to pass through the valley with the fighting forces you have."

We're checking the boyfriend's story with an opened map. The map is roughly made, but it's filled with landmarks until the opposite side.

"Ara ara, my my, Jon-kun is building a harem."
"Geh, Mito."
"What? Your acquaintance?"

A woman who seems to be the boyfriend's acquaintance appears, and then she pokes the boyfriend's cheek while floating a joyful look on her face. She has the same black hair as the boyfriend's, and looking at their faces, they seem to come from the same town.

Is this perhaps the thing called shuraba?
<TLN: kind of like lover's quarrel, only worse, lovers' carnage?>

"Oh, it's a shuraba."
"W, wait, Ruu."
"That's right, it looks more like a relationship between a man and a woman, or rather like between siblings."

If Iona-san who's sensitive in regard to relationship said so, it must be true.
I was panicked that it would become a shuraba.

"This is Mito, a grandma dressing like a young woman."
"You're cruel, I've said that I'm eternally 20 years old haven't I? I'll spank children who can't be obedient you know?"
"That way of talking smells of grandma."
"Gaan."
<TLN: Onomaetopia for *shocked*. Search for がーん image.>
"Don't say that out loud."

Is it my imagination that they look like they're flirting?
Lilio's mood is worsening.

Ah mou, what should I do!
I look toward Iona-san for help, but she seems to be enjoying the situation. Ruu has been eager to be the curious onlooker from the beginning...

"What kind of acquaintance?"
"I picked her up in a ruin."
"Ruin? Is she an explorer?"
"A loo~ong time ago. There was a time when I was an explorer."

I feel that she's not an ordinary person, but she doesn't look like a warrior at all. I wonder if she's magician? If that's true, she doesn't seem like she has any wand or tool to invoke magic.

"Is she maybe your new girlfriend?"
"That's impossible. I'm not into grandmas."
"That's right~ Far from having feeling to this cheeky brat, I don't even see him as a man."
"Fu, fuhn. Okay then, I believe it."

Lilio finally softened after hearing the woman declared that she didn't have any feeling toward the boyfriend-san in relaxed manner.
After finally returning to the main issue at hand, we finished listening about the route. We would have liked the boyfriend-san to guide us if possible, but--

"I can sneak into any place if I'm alone, but I can't show my real ability if I'm with other people. Since my fighting power doesn't even reach you guys' foot. I don't intend to follow you since I'll only become a drag."

--He confidently refused like such.


◇


We pass through the valley that has strange steams coming out of the ground. It's called Withered Valley, and just like the name implies, the trees here are withered. It's alright if we're here for a short time, but it'll be bad for the body if it's for long.

Due to the spraying steam, the scenery in the distance is hazy, the poor visibility is worrying. Monsters could have a surprise attack if we let our guard down.

"Seems that the harpies should appear soon."
"Un, should I go to scout?"

I contemplate for a short while whether I should let Lilio going ahead alone.
However, the contemplation is a bit too late. In the next moment, a shadow interrupted by flying pass us overhead.

"Take the anti-air formation! Lilio search for the enemies around us. Iona-san, I'll leave the command after this to you."

I begin to chant the spell for anti-sound defense.
A Captain who can't command once she starts to chant, geez!

"Yes. There's a high possibility that the shadow earlier is a harpy. Lilio-san, how many crossbow's short arrows do we have left?"
"Sorry, there's only seven left since we used too many for the monster earlier."
"There's probably only one enemy. Those many should be enough."

Un, with Lilio's skill, seven should be plenty enough.
However, the way the harpy flew earlier was odd.

"....■■■■ Sound Protection"

It's perfect with this I think?
The fearful thing with harpy is its sleep-inducing song.
If we can just defend against that, Lilio should be able to take it down.

I start to enter meditation to recover my magic power right at this time.
If it's as I've expected, I'd better recover my magic power to the maximum now.

We couldn't hear anything thanks to the soundproof, but the harpy attacked from top of the forest while screaming something.

"Hahha! With a target this big, I can hit it with my eyes shut!"

Lilio's arrow hit the root of the harpy's wing, and the harpy which had lost its ability to fly crashed to the ground.

"Ruu, guard Zena-san!"
"Ou! Leave it to me."

Iona-san mercilessly smashes the harpy's head with her great sword.
Lilio has also pulled her short sword, but it looks like there's no turn for her.

And then, slightly after it, the creature that was chasing the harpy showed its visage between the gaps of the Withered Valley's trees.

That is the strongest being--



Previous Chapter

Intermission: The Journey of Zena Squad

 

"Lilio!　I've found some survivors! Call the laborers here!"
"Hooi!"

Contrary to her light answer, Lilio whips out her body that's collected fatigue to run.
I hurriedly chant the next magic since I can't overlook it.

"Zena-san, you're using too much magic. Please take a longer break."

Even though Iona-san is worried about me, I shake my head to refuse it.
I tell her that helping the people who are buried alive is more important right now.
As expected, after chanting so much my jaw is hurting. I have to be careful as to not fumble the [Whisper Wind] magic chant.

"Iona, since the rescue over there is going well I've come to help."
"If Zena-san is in the middle of chanting spell, Ruu should be the one who talks with the man in charge of rescuing. Is it alright with you?"
"Yes yes. Will do."

Even though Ruu's voice had become like a man since she shouted so much, she still undertook it gladly. Ruu is like a dependable big sister, she can help calming the people who are waiting to be rescued.
After I've confirmed the activation of the magic, I shift into meditation while leaving the rest to Ruu. I have to restore even a little of my magic power in order to use my magic to look for the next survivors.

There are sounds of galloping horse, and Iona-san who's on lookout nearby, tells "Successor-sama has come" to me who can't open my eyes during the meditation.
I want to recover my magic power a bit more, but continuing to mediate in front of an upper-ranking noble will be too impolite, so I give it up.

"So you're Lord Marientael. Your good jobs have been conveyed even to me."
"Yes, I am honored."

Did the next Earl-sama come himself to say his gratitude to a mere soldier?

"I heard that your little brother-kun succeeded the house. If you wish, you can be my retainer. At first I can only grant you honorary noble peerage, but I promise to make you become a permanent noble depending on your work."
"I am undeserved of the invitation, I have already pledge my allegiance to Earl Seryuu. Please kindly pardon me."

It's quite an extraordinary invitation, but as a person of Marientael house which has worked under Earl Seryuu for generations, I don't have any intention to work under another house after all this time.
The young Earl successor seemed to think that he wouldn't be refused, his face looked unpleasantly angered. However, it seems he has enough tact to not act on the feeling.

"Is that so, if you change your mind, you can come anytime. I'll always leave a seat vacated for you."

After saying so, he left with his knight attendants.

"Are you alright with that Zena?　When your little brother-kun succeeds the house next year, won't your standing fall to a quasi-noble?"
"I don't mind. As long as I'm in the army, there's no difference between a noble or a commoner."
"Right isn't it~, Zena-cchi has the boy waiting right."

Mou, Lilio!
Satou-san has nothing to do with--maybe a bit.

"Moreover, it's not decided whether he will succeed the earldom or not after all."
"Really?"
"On top of piling up many victims, he borrowed the power of the Saga Empire hero-sama to defeat the demon after all."
"I see, he made a blunder on top of having no achievement. To make matter worse, he rashly made people out to the field who then died, so the young master's fame has dropped to ground."
"Wait, Ruu."

There's a limit even if you're only speaking your mind. What would you do if Earl Lesseu's man heard it!


◇


Another 10 days has elapsed after the fight with the demon is over.
Among the selected Seryuu city labyrinth regimen, half of the front-liner have been killed in action. Norina squad and ours are miraculously unhurt, but Rodril magic squad and mixed squad are mostly annihilated.
The day after the fight with the demon, Captain Derio who had lost one of his arm, and a holy knight went back to Seryuu city in order to report to Earl-sama.

A carrier pigeon was sent at the same time too, so the reply from Seryuu city should be coming soon. In case the reply never come, we're going to go back to the Seryuu city after we've finished confirming the survivors and the KIAs of the Labyrinth Selection Regimen.

The Vice-captain Riro who was thought to be dead was found safe under the debris, but he had to pay with one of his leg for his life.

"Everyone hear me. The directive from Earl-sama has come--The Selected Regimen is to continue their mission."

Everyone has various reactions toward the order read by Vice-captain Riro, people who are spirited, people who are dejected, and people who smile bitterly.

"Vice-captain, please, let me go back to Seryuu city. People can call me a coward behind my back all they want. I just want to be near my wife and children."
"Vice-captain Riro, I also want to go back to Seryuu city. I can't swing the sword well with this hand."

After the man with big body, a retainer man who has lost one of his arm from the demon's tactical magic proclaims so dejectedly. Several other people who seem to be in agreement also press the Vice-captain Riro.

The Vice-captain Riro holds them back with both hands while smiling wryly.

"Don't get flustered. There's a continuation to the order--"

People who have lost their limb, and people who has lost their will to continue to the labyrinth city are to go back to Seryuu city, so it's said.
Surprisingly, Rodril is also going back to Seryuu city. She really must have been enduring the fact that she was the only one remaining after her escorts were all dead.


◇


"Knight Henz, I entrust everyone to you."
"Yes, I will become as good as a Shiga Eight Swords when I return to Seryuu city."
"Hahaha, that's the spirit."

I wonder if it's just my imagination?　I feel that Riro-dono's laughter was dry when he encouraged the new captain, Knight Henz.
In the end, there are only 18 people who will be going to Labyrinth City, Selbira, which are the Knight Henz and his attendants, Norina's and my squads and the civil officers, and lastly the survivor from Mixed Squad, Gayana and another soldier.

After seeing off the people going back to Seryuu city, we also hasten our preparation to leave Lesseu earldom.

"Zena, do you really not have any regret?"
"What is this about?"
"Didn't you receive an invitation from Successor-sama."

Norina who has finished her preparation brought up the subject as if making fun of me. Not only me, I think she was also invited by the next Earl-sama though?

"Look, I was invited to become a common magic soldier."

I wonder what is Norina talking about?
I think the Successor-sama invited me only because he wanted to have a magic soldier nearby though?

"I've said it's useless. Successor-sama's desire completely didn't reach Zena-cchi at all."
"Right~ I mean, the one who came for me was a retainer, but for Zena, it was the Successor-sama personally himself who came."
"Right~"

Lilio, and even Gayana-san and Norina-san were saying some strange things. If you think about it normally, there is no way a legitimate child of an upper-ranking noble would want a daughter of the lowest-ranking noble like me as his partner.

If Knight Henz who couldn't read the mood didn't order us to depart, Ruu and Iona-san would have joined the nonsense love talk.

Thus, we departed from Lesseu's earldom while the snow started dancing in the sky as if they were pushing our backs.


◇


The journey from Lesseu Earldom to Zettsu Earldom was quite hard. The remnants of the monsters collected by the mid-class demon had built their nests here and there.
I thought that the safety of the main road was the responsibility of the Viceroy, but Knight Henz, who sympathized with villagers grieving about how the soldiers weren't patrolling, undertook the job to hunt the monsters, resulting in our journey not advancing well.

It seems Earl Lesseu's Army which was nearly destroyed aren't the only army that aren't patrolling their area, Earl Zettsu's army are also not. If the rumor about Earl Zettsu we've heard along the way is to be believed, it's because the army have been gathered to protect the cities against the demon's surprise attack.

After a long journey from the north to the south of Zettsu Earldom, we have finally arrived at the southernmost city. Once we leave this city, we should be entering the territory directly under the royal family in several days time.

It's just a little more until the labyrinth city--please wait for me Satou-san!

"Hey, isn't Zena looking strange?"
"Ah~, that's she thinking about the boy, firing herself up. Pretend you don't see it and watch over her heartwarmingly."
"That's right Ruu. The power of love is really wonderful isn't it."

Mou! Everyone is saying as they please!
Especially Iona-san! Your mouth is laughing.


◇


"There's a sign of an enemy between the cloud above!"
"Is it a monster?!"
"It's most likely a wyvern!"

With Lilio's warning, everyone has started to prepare the action that each one should do.
We've been accustomed with the appearance of a powerful enemy ever since we departed Seryuu Earldom. Everyone has already grasped their own role.

"All members, prepare for anti-air battle!"

Knight Henz orders vigorously.
Ah, it seems there's one person who hasn't grasped his role here. However, the Retainer-san promptly covers for him. It seems he's been a retainer for generations, looks like he has it hard.

"The order is revised! Evacuate to the woods beyond that hill! If the wyvern approaches, Zena and Norina are to knock it down with magic to gain some time."

Everyone began to follow the order while looking relieved.

"Sure wish our new captain (temp) properly understand his own region's strength. No way dozens people could win against a wyvern."
"Lilio-san, please stop wit the (temp). Even though he's like that, he's doing his best to bear the sudden heavy responsibility."
"Because Iona likes weakling. If a man comes crying to--no, never mind. That's why, stop pulling out that great sword! Okay!"

Iona-san is going to pull her great sword while smiling, but I think this isn't the time for that.

"Lilio! Look at that wyvern's tail and right wing!"

The scout of Norina squad confirms to Lilio about the out of place feelings she's sensed from the wyvern.
How'd she see at that high. I can only see it as a small black lump.

"Un? Let me see~, ah! Everyone abort the retreat! That's the Wyvern Rider of the Kingdom."
"The one's riding on it--is wearing a white armor! Perhaps it's Sir Trell of the Eight Shiga Swords? I've heard that he rides a wyvern right?!"

The white armor knight is waving his hand while circling in the sky at low altitude.
He must be under some kind of mission.

On that day, we heard an unexpected story in the border city, Fau.

"Dragon?"
"Yeah, because of that, all caravans going to the Royal Capital have been stuck."

Apparently, a lower-class dragon has nested in the mountain range on the territory's border.
As one would expect, a real dragon, even though it's a lower class, isn't something that humans can do something about. We have no other choice but to be stuck in this Fau city for the time being.






Previous Chapter

This is not from Satou's POV (Nana's POV)

Intermission: Golden Knight and the Caged Birds

 

The sight monitoring system has raised an emergency directive.
Adding the object before my sight with priority tag.

There are two figures of young organisms over there.
They are imprisoned in the birdcage hanged in front of the slave trader.

The logic circuit urges to have me rescue them.

Executing rescue--Error.
Re-execute--Error.

This is a grave situation.
Confirming that the reason for the error is Master's commands which have the maximum priority.

There is an entry that prohibits me from relocating articles without being accompanied with money transfer.
It cannot be helped.

I do not have the authority to break the prohibited matter.
I step into the firm, and proceed to secure the young organism via the regular route.

"Proprietor, I want to release these children, so I claim."
"If it isn't explorer young lady, you have discerning eyes. These are quite a rare species even among the featherkins--"

In summary, "Bring me 100 gold coins if you want to own the young organisms", such an unreasonable thing has been established.

The money in hand, two gold coins.
Lacking 98 gold coins more.

I will have Master's support.
In accordance to the answer from logic circuit, I leave the shop.


◇


"No."
"Please reconsider."
"No."

Master refuses to secure the young organisms.
I tried to entice him with puff-puff, but Lulu interfered.

Logic circuit announces that without Master's support, helping the young organisms is hopeless.
I am troubled.

"What's wrong? Nana-sama"

The beastkin person who works as a teacher of the training school applies for a conversation.

"I am currently searching the way to secure fund. If you have a good idea, please present it."
"Let's see, I think everyone from Pendragon probably can subjugate the Ruby Golem in the upper Area 33 for quick money?"

After searching the name 'ruby', I've identified that it is a kind of gem.
The size of the ruby that composes the body of a golem should be worth at least 100 gold coins.
I tell my thank to the informant and leave right away.

"Ah, Nana-sama. Nearby the Ruby Golem, Deadly Poison Slimes are--"


◇


I confirm the route on the explorer guild, and depart to the labyrinth.
I change my equipments with Orichalcum ones, and raise my moving pace. If I were slow, the permitted time to release them would expire.

Following Master's example, I exterminate the small fries with Flexible Swords, and crush the strong ones by smashing them with the Orichalcum great sword.

『What's that? A golden knight?』
『Oy oy, who the heck is that? It killed the labyrinth scorpion with a single blow.』
『Maybe it's some Red Iron bunch?』
『There's no one that showy!』

Sometimes I pass by other explorers, but since dealing with them has low priority, I put actions like talking with them to the furthest end of the processing queue.

Against opponents that occasionally appear and are ineffective against material sword, I promptly eliminate them with nature magic.

『Oy, did it just use chantless magic?』
『Chantless, the hero-sama?』
『It's the golden hero-sama!』

Some explorers that I've saved by chance apply for a conversation with me, but since my processing queue is packed, I cannot respond.

This time, a hydra with five heads is blocking the way.
I want to promptly eliminate it, but since other explorers are fighting it, eliminating the hydra would classify as one of the prohibited matter, [Sideswipe].

Every one of the explorers is acting inefficiently.
I searched for the way to cope with this, and got one conclusion.

"I ask! Do you wish for relief!"

Yes, if the other party requests relief, it won't qualify as a prohibited matter.
It's an excellent idea if I do say so myself, so I praise myself.

"Please help us!"
"I take charge of the relief."

Activating the function [Fortress] on the equipment that Master has given me.
Eight force shields and three magic walls block the hydra's fire and poison breath.

I do not have overwhelming offensive power like Liza and Pochi.
However, I have the the impregnable defensive power that Master has bestowed.

I nullify the entire attacks, and eliminate the hostile unit with plain great sword attack.

"Ooh! The hydra's head is cut with one swing of the great sword!"
"Apart from that, why is it fine against the hydra's flame that can even melt iron!"

I am equipped with Master's armor.
This result is natural so I analyze.

I eliminate the hydra and hurry toward Area 33.
Noise asking about the core entered my hearing circuit from behind, but since its sequence priority was low, I canceled it.
In order to increase my moving speed, I grant myself physical reinforcement with nature magic.


◇


I check that here is Area 33 from the Sign Monument.
I could have defined the Ruby Golem's location if I had Master's enemy searching function.

Discovered a passage full of slimes ahead.

Using Force Spear to eliminate them--failed. Confirmed it absorbs force spear.
Using Flexible Sword to eliminate them--failed. Cutting is not effective. Confirmed it absorbs the blade.
Using the great sword to eliminate them--failed. Cutting is not effective.

Searching for effective countermeasures--not applicable.
I evade the slimes and continue searching.

Discovered a Ruby Golem in the space ahead.
Confirmed several slimes along the way.

Searching for effective countermeasures--not applicable.
Searching for ways to get close to Ruby Golem--not applicable.

Searching for effective countermeasures--not applicable.
Searching for ways to get close to Ruby Golem--not applicable.

Searching for effective countermeasures--not applicable.
Searching for ways to get close to Ruby Golem--not applicable.

Confirmed that the logic circuit is looping.
Analyzing breakthrough measure--discovered Arisa's collection of sayings, commencing search....

Discovered the countermeasure.

Booting up multiple [Shelters].
Activating Orichalcum Armor's emergency vernier.

I pass through the defending camping slimes with the sudden acceleration.
Confirming the scattered slimes behind me.
Threat level, low. I leave them alone.

"Ruby Golem! If you think that you're great since you're a gem, that's a misunderstanding, so I refute!"

I crushed the approaching Ruby Golem with continuous [Force Spear (Javelin)] blows.
Since the objective is rebelling, I use the great sword carefully, I'm worried with my remaining mana.
The condition that allows the use of emergency measure has been cleared--utilizing the magic recovery potion.

All Mission Complete.
Commencing return.


◇


"This is a Ruby Golem! How did you get it in complete shape!"
"Conversion."
"No, how did--"
"Conversion."
"Ah, yes. Please wait a moment."

I've safely secured 100 gold coins.
Successfully safeguard the young organisms in the slave firm.

Naming the white featherkin young organism [Shiro].
Naming the black featherkin young organism [Kuro]--error.

Searching the library, re-naming it to [Crow].

After returning home, I introduce them to Master.

"I have secured them. They are Shiro and Crow."
"Return them."

Master-!
Searching for countermeasures to oppose the merciless order--Requesting supports from friendly units.

"Please reconsider."
"No."
"Isn't it fine, raised right, they can be the communication unit, or the bombardment survey unit~"
"Cute~?"
"That's right nanodesu!　Cute is justice nanodesu!"
"Nn."
"Master, I would also like to ask for it."
"I am sorry to intrude, but since Nana has bought them as slaves, how about training them as maid apprentices?"

With the help of friendly units reinforcement, Master finally raises the white flag, and I have safely acquired the permission to let Shiro and Crow take a new post in the mansion.
With feeling full of gratitude, I was going to do puff-puff that Master liked when we were going to bed, but I received concentrated bombardment from the friendly units.

It is absurdly baffling.

I evaluate that expressing gratitude is something with high degree of difficulty.
While being confused with bewilderment and delight, I wrapped myself with Shiro's and Crow's wings, and fell asleep.




Previous Chapter

This is not from Satou's POV (Arisa's POV)

SS: Very Popular

 

Hm?　This melody is Mia huh?
Just now, I've eaten yakitori with Liza, this time it might be nice to eat some sweets with Mia.
That girl is liked by old people, so she often gets simple sweets from the locals.

Um~m, she's on this open space I think. I think?!!
Hwhat!

"Arisa?"

Mia inclines her head while looking at the surprised me. Damn, aren't you cute.
The good looking men who were listening to Mia's lute play beside her glanced at me once, but they immediately lost their interest and looked back at Mia.

Kuh, what's! With that attitude!?
Tsk, Mia, even though she usually behaves like a spoiled child, saying [Satou] or the like, she's this popular behind our back!

A kind-looking black-haired shadowkin young man, a bad-boy-type red-haired leprechaun boy, a stiff blond-haired longears-kin, and an ash-colored short-haired ogre-kin man with a bit of muscles surround Mia like they're protecting her. They are all so good looking no one will object if they refer themselves as one. What is this, otome game?

"Mia, aren't you quite popular. Affair?"
"Mwu, no."

Even though it was a joke, she denied it seriously. Maybe there was some envy in my words.

"We have hurriedly come here in order to protect Mia-sama's day off."
"I'm here to hear Mia's lute though."
"Use 'sama'!　The elves-sama of Boruenan forest are the masters we should serve!"
"Fufufu, Mia-sama always looks so young and lustrous like a green grass."

Black, Red, Gray, and Gold, The handsome men pamper Mia in turns. Riajuu explodes!
I mean, I want to be popular too! Mainly with our Master!

"Arisa, want?"

Mia raises apple-like red fruit from her lap and offers it to me. Looks like the fruit is gouged to act as a container. The inside has the fleshes of the fruit cut and soaked with something that looks like syrup.

"Un, give me a bite."

I open my mouth, a~n, and have Mia spoon me a bite. I don't usually do something this les-like, but I did it in order to show it to the handsome men around us.
Oh, they're really glaring at me. Surely, they must be envious.

Chomp, I gulp the the content of the spoon Mia is presenting. The taste is also similar to an apple. I thought that the syrup was maple, but this is honey I think?　No, this viscous feeling is the ant nectar. U~n, I think honey is better for this one.

"How many point?"
"60 points I think. It'd have been 70 points if it used honey."

The blond handsome man is shocked to receive my strict evaluation. That guy made it huh. Like our Master, being good at cooking like this despite being a man, are you a character of some otome game.

A man should just be good enough to microwave curry powder or ready-made porridge to make them explode. If they don't do that much, I can't participate in the delicious situation of nursing them.
<TLN: Probably a reference to something. Not sure what, from an otome game maybe?>

I didn't have such an opportunity even once though.... orz.

I was going to invite Mia to a sweets tour, but since the retired people in the neighborhood had gathered to listen to Mia's music, I left that place while saying, "Later." I shouldn't take away the pleasure of old people in their remaining years right.


◇


I caught sight of Pochi and Tama having a feast on a stall with some dogkin boys, but it must have been an illusion.
It must've been a shock after seeing Mia getting surrounded by handsome men.

Un, seeing Nana carrying a white featherkin and a black featherkin infants on both her hands must also be a mistake.
Please let it be not a kidnapping!

I came across a group of children in a vacant lot. They're children of our orphanage. They're doing a volunteer work by weeding the vacant lot I guess?

"Ah~! It's Arisa! Let's play hide-and-seek, hide-and-seek!"
"You can't, Arisa-chan is going to play house with us! Arisa-chan's demon lord is amazing you know!"

Ah, why are the one who come after me are all kids~
Looks like I'm going to play as a demon lord again. Let me become the princess once in a while too!

Damn it, I'll play so hard to bury my worries today!

"I'll play in turn!　You guys! Be prepared!"
"Ou!"
"Ya~y!"

I played hard until the sunset and went home.

Maybe because I played fully, and ate fully during the day, that even though it was the long awaited day of me sleeping together with that guy, I went asleep before I could enjoy his sleeping face.

Ah, I want to flirt!




Previous Chapter