Mushoku Tensei Volume 22 - Cliff Chapter
Mushoku Tensei Volume 22 - Cliff Chapter
Mushoku Tensei Volume 22 - Cliff Chapter
Home
Part 1
We arrived at the capital of the Holy Kingdom of Milis.
I've finally come back to this city after such a long time.
Although I visited Milis when I installed the teleportation circle, I
didn't visit the capital.
So, this is only the second time in my life.
Even now I remember the scene I saw when I was approaching the
city from the north.
The river flowing from the Blue Dragon Mountain into the lake, the
pure white palace floating in its center, the golden cathedral along
the riverside, and the silver Adventurers' Guild.
The seven towers encircling the city, surrounded by a vast meadow.
... Ah.
"Dignity and harmony, It exemplifies the two; making it the most
beautiful city in the world."
I think that was it.
Even though it was so long ago, I still remember that line.
How nostalgic, that book.
Ah yes, [Walking the World] by Adventurer Bloody Count.
It's an amazing name, I wonder what kind of person would have that
kind of name.
While traveling, I never heard of an adventurer by that name.
He might be from a considerably long time ago.
I wonder why Paul had such a book.
Well it's fine.
Milishion is beautiful from the south as well.
You can't see anything unnecessary thanks to the high towers and
walls.
Only a pure silver-like palace glistening in the light.
The beauty of that palace stands out, the walls conceal everything
else.
Simplicity is best.
"Yeah, this city is the most beautiful in the world."
Cliff said with a sigh.
He seems to have overheard.
"But surely its contents are the dirtiest in the world."
In Cliff's eyes, only the white palace had been reflected.
Now, that beautiful palace might be intimidating.
From now on, this city is a battlefield. Thinking so would only be
natural.
Actually, I think Asura kingdom is dirtier.
Ariel, and the other nobles, are pretty sleazy.
In Asura Kingdom, you could say, the dirty parts were on the
outside.
I'm not trying to sugarcoat the Holy Kingdom of Milis.
In certain aspects, surely Milis is dirty as well.
"...Cliff-senpai."
"Still, I'm no longer a senpai?"
"Cliff... If something happens, please tell me."
This time, I'm in a casual position.
Even so, I want to help Cliff.
But it's only at the level of going to buy juice at a convenience store,
which is all right.
[1]
"Well then, for the time being... let's take a carriage to my family's
estate."
"Ussu, by the future Archbishop's command."
On this day, Cliff returned to Milishion.
After about 10 years.
Part 2
There are four entrances to Milishion.
Last time, we entered from the Adventurer's District.
That's because when an outsider uses any other entrance it
becomes a troublesome thing.
Anyway, as we went around the wall, I remembered that lively
entrance.
It's the same this time.
However, because Cliff is here, there's no need to wait at the
entrance.
The entrance to the Adventurers' District on the south side was the
closest.
Though in truth, it matters little when we're this close. [2]
Part 3
"Geez, I never expected to see you in a place like this."
Gisu spotted us and immediately jumped onto the carriage.
There was no hesitation at all.
But I'm not about to cast an acquaintance aside. [4]
"What amazing luck! How should I put it, this is once in a lifetime
luck!"
Gisu seems exceptionally happy to meet us.
He's got a full-face smile.
Seeing that puts me in a good mood too.
"Half the work, half the house." [5]
Part 4
By the time we got to Cliff's house, the sun was already setting.
Cliff's house was more ordinary than I expected.
An ordinary single family home, it looks like it could fit a family of
three or four, it's snug.
It looks just like the neighboring house.
How should I put it, in the religious district, the houses are all
uniform.
Because it's the Pope's house I expected something similar to Ariel's
estate, it's kind of anticlimactic.
"It's unexpectedly small."
"Housing for the clergy is provided by the religious headquarters.
However, because grandfather has a room at the headquarters, this
house isn't used."
Cliff explained to me, without getting angry at my rude comment.
To put it simply, it's like corporate housing.
"Since we're already here... It's late, please stay."
At Cliff's suggestion, I suddenly had a thought.
Zenith's family home, it's in the residential area.
That's right, it wouldn't take long...
Although I have a hunch they wouldn't want us visiting so late.
Visiting in travel wear, that might not be a good idea.
We could set up an appointment to visit them, but we'll be staying in
the adventurers' district... so we'd have to come all the way back
here.
"Well, thank you."
I decided to accept Cliff's offer.
We unloaded the luggage, stabled the horses, stored the carriage,
and brought everything inside.
But, while I was dealing with the carriage, I noticed a white cloud of
dust.
"Gah!"
The dust had an acrid smell, Aisha let out a cute sneeze.
"Keho... terrible... Jiisan, doesn't seem to have cleaned..."
Cliff held a cloth over his nose, swearing.
He probably didn't expect Cliff to be back yet and left the house
unattended.
In any case, the house is really dusty.
"To thank you for letting us stay here, we'll help you out with the
cleaning... Aisha."
"Ah, sor...ry?
"Eh, me?"
Aisha said in disarray, and Zenith gave a reproachful look.
No, Zenith is expressionless.
However I can feel it from her eyes.
Aisha also gave me that kind of look.
Wasn't I supposed to entrust the cleaning to you?
Wasn't that it. Every time. Something like, [Leave it to me!]
We have to express our gratitude...
"Of course it's a joke? I'll help too?"
"Of course."
And so we began a night of housecleaning.
We fully opened all the windows, even with wind magic it was rough,
so we finished up by sweeping.
After that, we wiped everything down.
Since nothing had been used in several years, I used hot air to clear
any bugs out of the beds and blankets.
The kitchen was also considerably dirty, but Aisha somehow
managed it.
Meanwhile, Cliff and I gave the living room a rough cleaning.
We finished in three times the normal speed.
The Red Comet Aisha. [7]
Then, using the food leftover from the journey, we had a light dinner.
"Cliff-senpai. Congratulations on your return."
"It's still too early. I have to meet with Grandfather."
While toasting with cups of water, we enjoyed a meal of dried meat
and soup.
As food goes, it's a little bland, but it's fine.
I was troubled over how many ingredients we had left, so I had an
underlying motive to finish them.
"Rudeus, what are your plans for tomorrow?"
"For the time being, I will visit the Latreia house."
"I see, do you plan to stay there?"
"I think that will probably happen."
Even if they have a bad reputation, they're Zenith's family.
Even if we stay for awhile, it shouldn't be a problem.
For establishing the mercenary branch and assisting Cliff when the
time comes, staying in the Latreia house may limit my freedom to
act... but I won't know until I try.
Well, after the greetings, I could always stay somewhere else.
"So, I'll need to hire someone to do the housework..."
"If you'd like, every couple of days I could send Aisha over?"
"No, that's fine. You guys are going to be busy too, it's just
something to think about."
Cliff said with a shrug.
Part 5
We slept in the guest room.
Three people in a small room. The family, sleeping shoulder to
shoulder like the 川 character.
... And, Aisha's body is already that of an adult.
The bed is small, it can't fit three adults side by side.
So we left the bed to Zenith, Aisha and I slept on the floor.
We made a makeshift bed out of blankets and cushions we
borrowed from Cliff.
Because there's carpet on the floor, it isn't exactly camping out.
It's time to go to sleep.
Then, I noticed Aisha looking at me.
"Ehehe, Oniichan, I wonder if Sylphy-ane would be jealous..."
"Well, during this journey, it was fine right."
"Yeah, but somehow, ehehe..."
Aisha laughed and huddled next to me.
She has a cute smile.
If it were Sylphy, I would already be past my limit.
Sylphy, too, would have...
But I don't feel that way about Aisha, and she doesn't particularly
draw close to me too.
I like Aisha, but it's a familial love.
But, it's fine without physical contact.
It's a strange feeling.
She's still cute...
"I have an abrupt question, you, about what Lilia said, what do you
think now?"
"Okaasan has said a lot of things?"
"To be a maid, and work for me, stuff like that."
When I asked that, Aisha had a blank look.
Then, she put her hand on her chin and had a look like she was
thinking intently.
"Hmm, it's not disagreeable... but, perhaps, for Sylphy-ane, it's
different. Something like this... I wonder if it's selfish..."
"No, I understand. It's different."
It was a fuzzy conversation, but something clicked.
It felt alright.
"Nfufu, well it's a given, that Oniichan is loved."
While saying that, Aisha curled next to me and pressed against my
body.
Warm and soft.
A good holding pillow.
"... Someday, when you find someone you love, you can start a
family of your own."
As I said that while enjoying my new pillow, Aisha suddenly sat up.
She seems to have taken my comment seriously.
"So. Have you given it any thought?"
"What kind of person would that be I wonder..."
Aisha's lover.
It's hard to imagine.
An excellent-type, or an unreliable-type.
Aisha can choose who she wants,but I don't like the idea of
arranging a match.
Aisha normally hangs out with a certain crowd.
The mercenaries... there are a lot from the Beast race.
Would one of those guys fall for Aisha?
My little sister isn't a bone for some dog to chase after!
If I ask Orsted, he should be able to tell me about the type of guy
that Aisha marries...
Now now, let's just forget about that.
If I heard something like she's single for the rest of her life, it would
be pitiable.
Oh, that's right.
I need to confirm something before going to sleep.
"Aisha, tomorrow, when I bring Zenith to her parents' house... what
do you want to do?"
"......"
Aisha inched away from my arm.
But returned.
"I will go. Okaasan, because she asked me to earnestly."
"I see..."
"Yeah."
Hearing Aisha's reassuring reply, I was also relieved.
Tomorrow we visit Zenith's house.
That's the plan, but I don't know how it will go...
Going alone to a house with such a high status, I'm a bit uneasy.
Afterwards, I'll work on installing a mercenary branch.
If I can establish a good connection with the Latreia house, things
should go smoothly.
We need to adapt to the environment.
"Well, I'll be in your care."
"I understand. Leave it to me."
"Really, I appreciate it. Cleaning today too, thanks... Well,
goodnight."
"Don't mention it... good night..."
While listening to Aisha's sleepy voice, I fell asleep.
Notes
2. TLC
Part 1
Zenith's parent's house was huge.
Just as I had imagined it to be.
A large gate, two lion statues standing on both sides, a long stone-
paved path leading from the gate to the entrance, a fountain in the
middle of the path, and a green lawn cut in a strange form.
And inside, as if enshrined a white beautiful mansion was honorably
standing.
"Haa......"
"Ah."
The maids, lined up in two rows along the edge of the path before
the gate.
The butlers standing in the front, lined up evenly from shoulder to
shoulder facing towards us.
It's just like an "honorable greeting formation" often seen in a manga
of a rich system.
It was also done frequently in the Asura kingdom.
When the guards opened the gate, the butlers deeply lowered their
heads.
Matching their rhythm, the maids also bowed their heads.
The butler didn't mind it and bowed to me and then turned around on
his feet to guide us.
Not a single word towards Aisha.
I wonder if that guy treats her as a maid while wearing a form of
servant uniform himself.
In that case, I should have let Aisha wear a different type of cloth.
It's my younger sister-like dress.
A frills-type dress.
Part 2
While I was considering such things, passing the long paved path,
we went inside the entry hall.
As expected, the inside was overflowing with elegant furniture and
refined articles.
Of course, it can't be compared to the Asura Royal Palace or
Perugius' castle, but I think the hobby is not bad.
"Well then, please wait here."
"........."
I see.
So that's how it is.
Claire-obaachan, she came hurriedly in such a short time just to see
Zenith.
I get it, I get it.
"Even though you're a mere maid, while the landlady is still standing
you have the nerve to keep sitting! Just who taught you such a
thing!"
"P-please forgive me."
Aisha was hanging her head down while looking like she was about
to cry.
No no, wait wait.
How come? Just wait a moment.
This pace is too fast. Why are you ignoring me? Hey, I'll cry.
The moment I said that with a strong voice, Claire slowly faced
towards me.
Ah, oh no. I've said it now....
Gah, the hell with it.
Well, in this big of a house, if it turns out that the only one daughter
had eloped with an unknown person,
people claiming to be of the same lineage will often come out to gain
favor.
Although I was greeted, I was not told about anything like proving
my identity.
Even these clothes are not really enrolled as the crest of the
Greyrat's.
If one thinks about it, something like that can be prepared anywhere.
There are stripes going back and forth, though that doesn't indicate
anything.
"This Zenith is the real one. Aisha over there, I remember her too.
Do you have any evidence to prove that you are indeed my
grandson?"
I came together with Aisha and Zenith, and even handed over the
letter.
Is there any more??
"Is it necessary?"
"What do you mean?"
"I have brought my mother......Zenith and Aisha, I also brought the
letter that came from you. Is it really necessary to show any more
proof?"
"For the actual head of the Greyrat family, you sure are surprisingly
cheap-looking.
After all, the Latreia are a distinguished family of earls.....while the
Greyrat are only a large part of the four feudal lords of Asura.
Moreover, rather than the earl himself, to introduce yourself to the
Madam Earl herself while lowering your head is......"
"Indeed I have inherited the kinship of a large part of the four feudal
lords of Asura but I'm not the main root of the feudal lords, in the
first place it doesn't mean that I hold a rank of nobility. Even though I
am the family head, I am no more than the backbone of my family
living among the general population. In addition, even if I had
possessed a higher social standing, meeting my grandmother for the
first time and bowing to her as a greeting is natural to consider.
Right."
"......Ho."
It looked like, Claire's mood changed and she was gazing towards
me with a look of despise.
No, it might be my imagination......
Anyway, it seems this person is of a high pedigree.
This is bothersome....
For the time being, I'll keep them in check.
I showed her the bracelet containing the crest of the Dragon God.
After Claire looked at it for a few seconds, unaware of the butler
standing at my side I heard him saying something in a low voice.
While nodding the butler said. "Certainly, This is the Dragon God's--".
I don't think it's very much popular but, that butler, he seems to know
about this crest.
Something like this can be forged as many times as it takes......it
would be troublesome to say something like that.
"I see.......I understand."
While saying that, Claire quickly pulled down her chin, with both
hands on the side of her abdomen matching the rhythm.
And then, in a natural manner lowered her head.
Part 3
While both of us lowered our heads, this matter came to a
conclusion.
Phew.
With this I took a breath of rest.
Only the greetings ended up taking an extremely roundabout way,
somehow it's managed now.
Claire made a pop noise while clapping her hands, and the door
opened.
From the door, a maid pushing a cart entered.
Above the cart in plain view was a tea set.
Tea ceremony, huh.
All right, I'll show you my tea skills that I forged in the sky fortress.
"Mother is......we tried with our greatest effort to cure her but we
were not able to find any methods."
".......In a far away village, the means to remove this curse might be
limited."
But it is.
I can understand not believing such a story.
But I can't lead her astray now after coming this far.
Well, I am going to live in Millishion for a few months anyway.
In the meantime, Claire will realize that curing Zenith might just be
impossible.
Well, it would be problematic if she is subjected to unreasonable
medical treatment...........
Not able to say yes or no to the reply that was a commanding tone.
Did she not take into account the distance between here and Sharia.
Even though it takes 4 years for a round trip.......
Well, in reality there is the Teleportation Magic Square, coming and
going back can be made in a week's time.
.....eh?
So what?
While thinking that, I look at Aisha.
She just shrugged her shoulders. With an attitude of "Isn't it so?".
Possibly, in the nobility of this Milis sacred country, it might be
common sense.
Right, that's right.
In the previous world as well, the parents had the decision to choose
a suitable partner for their kids.
Only I did not come nicely, it's a surprisingly common idea.
"Is that so, I understand.......being the head of the family you ought
to be more reliable."
In the first place our way of thinking is different, only objection and
quarrel will take place side-by-side if this keeps on.
Today is our first time meeting each other.
First of all, it is necessary to start with knowing each other.
The demands come after that.
Or so he said.
You did it, Zenith.
Even though you didn't make yourself look younger they are
approving you as a young woman!
.....Or, is it the opposite?
Would it be fine to think of it as a bad thing?
Whether it is the influence of the curse....or the like.
"How is it?"
"Let's see. I don't think there are any problems. There is always one
maid looking after her in constant attendance. There aren't any
illness or injury on her. Even her mind seems to be stable."
"What about children?"
"Menstruation is taking place, that being the case to give birth.........
If several people are nursing her in constant attendance it is
possible."
"Alright."
"Ah, that's right. You should cut your bonds with the Priest of the
Pope's faction."
"Eh?"
"I am well aware of your friendship with the Priest of the Pope's
faction."
Hmm.
Hmm.
Well, certainly, since Cliff's position as a Pope is more or less
guaranteed, I'll end up getting completely backed by the pope's
faction.
It's not like I don't understand such a strategy, if you comprehend it
as such.
It's not that kind of a feeling.........
Alright, it's fine. I'm not angry. I'm not angry at all.
I'm perfectly calm. I'm the calm and clever Rudeus.
There is no reason to panic. I was aware that Claire was this kind of
woman. I was prepared for this.
My relationship with a friend would become an interference was
outside my scope of assumption but.......we were incompatible like
oil and water.
At least without quarreling I'll give my greetings and leave this house-
---.
The words that came from me was a reply to the previous line.
My consciousness flowed away for several seconds.
"Now that we've come this far, there is no other choice. Even if this
thing is able to give birth to a child then the path to marriage is still
left."
"............"
A person who can't even follow their own intention, just who are you
pressuring her to marriage.
Calling your own daughter "this thing".
Treating her like an object.
Today was the first time for me to hear my blood vessel get teared.
Part 4
Before I realized it, I was walking while pulling along Zenith's arm in
the middle of the evening.
I don't remember anything I said after that.
I just remembered shouting with a loud voice.
However, the contents are a little vague.
No doubt, the abuse that I ordinarily never use suddenly jumped out
from me.
"Fuu~~......"
Ah, shit.
What healthy body is a blessing in disguise.
I shouldn't have come here, I didn't want to hear such words.
She has memory loss and can't even live properly by herself.
For what reason someone would even consider to make her a bride
granted her condition!
Moreover, her body is healthy? Being able to give birth to children is
a blessing in disguise considering menstruation?
The married Zenith will receive nursing at daytime and will get
embraced by her husband at night?
I know what that is called.
A dutch-wife.
And what if she gets pregnant? Will you bear it? Will you consider
bearing it?
Even if she does give birth, what about Zenith's intention?
What about my feelings? What do you think will become of the
children that are left behind?
What do you know about a person's mother!
What do you know about your own daughter!
Substantially, what's up with this function!
Means of treatment?
A machine to give birth?
The last strange word that came out finally calmed me down a little.
"O-onii-chan....."
"Aisha."
I understood the reason why Aisha or Norn, even Lilia had spoken so
ambiguously.
That's right.
About such a painful meeting.
I don't know what kind of things that person said to Aisha and Norn
while they were being raised.
But, it must have been an undoubtedly unpleasant experience.
"Sorry for bringing you along."
"No. It's fine. But we weren't able to make a connection." [2]
Knead? [3]
Rice? [4]
Rice-plant? [5]
Connection. [6]
Notes
6. konekushon[コネクション]
Chapter 219 - Milis Church
Headquarters
Part 1
After the encounter with Claire, I returned to Cliff's house with a
dejected heart.
Right before me, an unbelievable scene was unfolding.
It's a lie.
Cliff-senpai.
What, seriously, the person who so strongly lectured me.......
The reason you didn't bring Elinalize along was for the sake of
meeting that person?
Were you playing with Elinalize all along?
Even though you have a erotic partner, she still gave birth to your
child....don't you feel anything in your heart?
"Ah, Rudeus, at the right place. Hey, can you get the box on the top
of that shelf? With my height, I can't reach it even if I use a stool."
"Ah, yeah."
By the time it took me to notice, Cliff had already separated from the
girl.
It didn't particularly feel like they were blushing.
Only the feeling of supporting someone who has fallen off from the
stool.
While hearing such conversation I took down the box that was on top
of the shelf.
The dust which wasn't able to shake off during the cleaning the other
day was blown off and the box was handed over to Cliff.
"Sorry......I think this is probably it......alright. I'm glad, with this I can
somehow make it tomorrow."
Cliff took out some kind of crest from inside the box.
It's a crest of the Milis Church.
For the work, I guess?
"So Rudeus, what is it? Weren't you supposed to stay at the Latreia
House for today?"
While listening to that I set myself on sail.
I really wanted Cliff to listen to today's story.
"Yeah, about that, listen to me will you-----"
Part 2
While entrusting my anger to him, I explained to Cliff regarding my
circumstances.
About the thing that took place at the Latreia House.
About Claire's speech and conduct.
About me not being able to stand it and leaving the house in a fit of
rage.
About how I'm a little calm right now but my anger yet to subside.
Recalling it all irritates me.
"......Well"
My own children.......
About Lucy......it's difficult to imagine something like that yet.
Let's predict about Norn then.
Norn goes out on a journey at the same time of her coming-of-age
ceremony, finally returns back only to find out that she is now
crippled.
Even that, coming with an unfamiliar man and a child and a
concubine's child at that who is not related to you by blood.
Certainly, there would be confusion.
You would somehow think that but.......
After listening to that, I suddenly noticed that I did not realize the
possibility that a person of Latreia could do something.
I separated with Claire.
We shall never have to meet again.
I will believe that but the other side might not.
For the sake of regaining Zenith, there is the possibility of some kind
of trick to exist.
Then, it should be fine to send Zenith back to Sharia.
"Wendy is the first senior among them all, very soon the orphanage
will no longer be able to let her live there after she ages.
Therefore for that reasoning, for a short while, I have accepted to
help her out in her commuting from there.
This will also give actual results out if she is to do housework at my
place."
The point is, that girl was finally hired as a teaching practice-like
flow.
Working at Cliff's house who was the Pope's grandchild meant trust
could be made apart from producing results.
An advantageous employment find.
".........."
Part 3
Anyway, the moment I rushed out of the Latreia house the plan
ended up as a failure.
If it's become like this, I think it should be a good move to return
Zenith to the house at once.
But at the bare minimum, I wanted to let Zenith look around the
town, since I felt indignant about Claire's treatment toward her.
Still... I'm thinking carelessly.
It would be better to aid Cliff in his growth to adulthood by
completely repressing the Latreia.
But such a future is not the only one that may come to be.
Position, huh.
That old woman is a person who gives priority to her pedigree,
probably taking such things into consideration.
She is stubborn and an unpleasant person to deal with but her mind
is not the one at fault.
Certainly.
For the Latreia, Zenith's utility value should have been low.
That is why Cliff frowned that time, it's just how people accept the
common knowledge of this country even if it's something like getting
married to a partner who can't even talk.
When such a thing is forced, I'd think the relationship after marriage
would be frail.
If you think about it, it might become possible to get your hands on
the original source of support from the Fittoa Region search party...
[1]
That being the case, if such a request was made, I wouldn't think it
was worth the asking price.
"This one time they discovered how scary onii-chan can get, they
didn't even give chase to us just now... I don't think they have such
an obsession with Zenith."
I must advance the progress of the mercenary group and not just
only Zenith.
Regarding being a shield for the Pope's back, those two functions
can be done effectively.
Apart from that, it's not necessary for the Pope to protect Zenith.
Furthermore, just by having some form of connection, the opposition
will have more difficulty interfering.
Part 4
The next day.
After eating breakfast we started proceeding towards the Church
Headquarters.
Aisha stayed behind to take care of Zenith.
However, it's different for the people living inside a house with such
bad taste.
At any rate, this is the Milis Church Headquarters.
It's a place bustling with upwards-compatible types of people like
Cliff.
It looks like a building with bad taste but the holy men have decided
to inhabit there...
Of course, there is no way I can understand that.
"I'm extremely sorry but people without any license are not allowed
to pass here."
"Really? Will it not work with only my license? I thought people with
company could enter some time ago..."
"Since the former days, the rules count for only one person."
"Is that so. Well... in the former days, because there were kids they
were overlooked...?"
I obediently saw off Cliff going into the rest of the way inside.
Part 5
The grounds within were wide, the building was huge as well.
It seemed to be lightly 4 times that of the Latreia house.
The building has four storeys, if you look at it from above, it looks
like a structure piled up with □ and ◇.
□ is inside ◇.
It was not like an eight mountain star but rather a square was inside
a square. [4]
Inside the ◇ exists residence wards and office rooms for the staff
and what seems to be an idol shrine.
Typical standard of permitting only the important people and no one
else.
It seems even an office worker is not informed as to what is
performed inside.
So to speak, it's the center department of the Milis Church.
It's evident a license is necessary.
While I was looking around several places the sun ended up rising
high.
I got hungry.
However, I am a stranger.
When the grandchild abruptly comes home, hurriedly reporting that
he wants you to meet with a strange guy, it would be natural to be
wary.
The matter concerning Zenith was a somewhat unpleasant
experience but I have not forgotten about Elinalize's request as well.
I want to avoid pulling Cliff's leg as best as I can.
In the northern part of the Asura kingdom, inhabiting the trees on the
mountainside.
During the beginning of spring this plant makes pink colored flowers
bloom, it's known as the 『Spring summoning tree』 in the Asura
kingdom.
It's also popular among nobles because of the unique aroma coming
from its wood.
But because it is a tree that inhabits the mountainside, it's expensive.
Currently the Asura royal family has managed the cultivation of
Saraku forest and have also exported to foreign countries.
And I was taught all this by Ariel the other day, in the Asura kingdom.
It kind of looks like an otaku circle since there aren't any handsome
men around.
It's just some guys having a sense of intimacy with excited faces.
They are all wearing blue cuirass(chest armor) which doesn't look
otaku-like.[6]
".....Aare?"
Puzzled over what to say, the other side ended up talking first.
"Ah....."
It was in an instant.
In an instant three of them among the otaku unsheathed their swords
and thrust at me.
The remaining four brought the princess back and hid her behind
them.
"God exists."
"Milis-sama itself is a God."
"Why can't you comply with such an obvious thing?"
"Could it be that you don't believe in Milis-sama?"
"You don't believe in god?"
"Infidel....?"
"Heretic!"
While the otakus said that with each of their mouths, those eyes
were steadily becoming muddy.
Not good, at this rate I'll be mistaken as a witch.
"No no, please wait, calm down, please listen to my story first..."
If I act violently here, it'll become troublesome for Cliff, this beautiful
garden will become awful as well.
You don't want to see the Saraku tree blown off into small pieces.
Right?
Mutual crisis is not beneficial, you'll understand if we talk.
"Heretic...?"
"Ah!"
Thus while looking at the swords thrust at me, she raised her voice.
While the otakus put down their swords with a surprised face I
closed my foresight eye.
Part 6
Therese Latreia.
Zenith's younger sister and my aunt.
The person who assisted me during my voyage from the Milis
Continent to the Central Continent.
I again apologized for blurting out such a strange thing but they
looked dissatisfied because of their killing intent towards the
changed me.
Now they just took the Princess at a distance and are on their
guards.
"Do you remember me? Did you forgot because we only met once?"
"Of course I remember. You were really a great help concerning the
voyage."
Well, leaving those guys aside for now I started chatting with
Therese.
It's really nostalgic.
Certainly, the last time we met I heard about her transfer to the
West Port City.
It's been 10 years since then.
It wouldn't be strange if she had returned.
"I wonder if they let this kind of thing be overlooked in this country?"
"No, it's not possible no matter what... even if it's mother, that... I
think she might be mistaken... but, well... Rudeus-kun, couldn't it
have been something you said that angered mother? That woman,
because she was told something unreasonable, she responded
unreasonably in kind, tit-for-tat..."
"...What about it. I wanted to endure it as much as possible and talk
things through without getting angry."
"Hmm."
Therese crossed her arms for a little while and groaned with a
gallant face.
It wasn't even a tit-for-tat feeling.
It felt like it was decided from the get go.
"Well, if the next time you went to the head house listen to the
matter very carefully. Mother is a bit stubborn but she's not a bad
person. Most likely, it's a trifling misunderstanding."
"......"
"At any rate, Rudeus-kun has grown big! Ah, no, it would be better
to say that you matured as a man... are you around 20 years old
right now?"
Both of...
Ah, that's right, this person is a Milis believer as well.
It should be better if I keep the matter aside concerning me being
married to three wives.
Well, I'll be silent for now.
I don't want to throw water on this long-awaited happy moment.
"I see, marriage huh... that little Rudeus-kun and Eris-sama are now
married... haa..."
"Uh? Ah! This and that happened but I returned back to being the
Miko-sama's escort. For now, I manage those guys."
That's scary.
I get the concern for their belief in god but don't end up not looking
around the surroundings because of that.
Even the God of you all guys will be generous.
"Just now, I heard the name called Eris, are you perhaps an
acquaintance of that red-haired Eris-sama? That swordswoman?"
She is the Miko, huh.
They just call her Miko Miko but I wonder what her real name is. Is it
Nurse. [8]
If it's 10 years ago, then that means during the time I came to
Milishion.
Certainly, I also remember that story.
The story of how Eris set out for Goblin extermination but ended up
exterminating an assassination.
"No, at that time me and Eris as well were not acquainted with
Orsted-sama.
However, if Miko-sama were to bestow her sense of obligation,
Then in the future, when Orsted-sama will be able to hold back his
hostility he will gratefully receive it."
"...? A person I haven't even met holds hostility?"
"It's because Orsted-sama is cursed as such."
While looking at Therese and the followers, their faces don't look like
as if a miracle has happened.
That means, this is this child's 『Ability as a Miko』.
Similar to Zanoba's 『Superhuman strength and defensive power』...
"Hee..."
This is bad.
I noticed that something happened, it feels like a dangerous sign has
been put up in my direction.
No matter what I heard, it feels like the entourage is ready to attack
me anytime.
But, it's also a waste to not hear it.
I can't meet her again.
I must ask her and hear it.
"Suu... fuu..."
Such a thing.
Well fine.
Anyway, she's not an enemy, if she is not involved with Hitogami, isn't
it fine to believe her.
When I was considering what to do, a voice could be heard from far
calling out to me.
It's Cliff's voice.
It seems like he finally obtained a license.
"I'll be staying in this town for a while, so we'll talk again about Eris
next time..."
"It's a promise!"
I bowed to the princess and entrusted a message to Therese.
"With that Therese-san, if you are going to the head house, tell
Claire that 「I'll carry the responsibility for my mother's problem so
interference is futile」 please convey that for me... also, if the Fittoa
Region Search Party needs collateral for their support, they will be
paid in gold given the suggested amount of money."
"...Got it, I'll convey that for now."
"Please do."
Possibly she was a otaku princess but I felt something that was not
bottomless.
Notes
1. When editing, this was a bit messy and I wasn't sure if it was simply talking
about A) suitors marrying into the Latreia family's money (which the search
party fiasco revealed to be considerable), or B) the family wanting some kind
of recompense for putting all that money up and not getting their daughter
back whole in the end. I assumed it was the former at first from the context,
but a translation check would be good.
2. TLC あるなら、あんなふうにモノ扱いなんてしない。
3. Onion dome
9. http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=burriko
Chapter 220 - Meeting with the
Pope, and...
Part 1
"I will store your luggage."
Before entering, we were searched.
I guess they were looking for weapons to confiscate.
From my favorite knife, to my scrolls, I had to leave everything
behind.
However, my armor itself wasn't considered a weapon, so I didn't
have to undress.
Cliff didn't say anything, probably because he trusts me.
In good faith, I also deposited my left gauntlet with the mana
absorbing stone and my right gauntlet equipped with the shotgun.
The center of the building was like a labyrinth.
There weren't any straight passageways, every passage was
curved.
Moreover, because the passages are all painted white, it's hard to
discern what's ahead.
Naturally, this is the heart of the Milis religious community.
Just like a fortress, it was probably designed to withstand enemy
attacks.
Following Cliff's swift pace, we quickly arrived at the Pope's office.
The office was guarded by two knights and protected by a barrier.
"I'll tell you now, you won't be able to use magic past this barrier."
"Yes."
The barrier must be at least saint or king ranked.
I wonder if these knights can match saint or king ranked skills.
I'm not sure, they might just be here to buy time in the event of a
battle.
"Your eminence, greetings."
Cliff's grandfather Harry Grimoire, on the other side of the
transparent barrier.
He looked like the good-natured old man I imagined from the letter.
He had a long white beard, and wore bishop-like robes with gold
embroidery.
"Yes, thank you."
His voice was powerful like Sauros, but not sharp like Reida.
He had the aura of an exceptional person.
But, he seemed to be conscientious of his own power.
I see, so this is the Pope, I understand, something...
It wasn't his aura, it was his hat. [1][2]
Just kidding.
"Allow me to introduce Rudeus Greyrat.
We studied together at the Ranoa magic university, he was my
kouhai.
His talent for magic surpasses my own, he is an extremely skilled
person.
Because of our longstanding association, I wanted to take this
opportunity to introduce him to your eminence."
As Cliff made my introductions, the Pope slowly nodded with a
gentle expression.
I should probably handle any further explanations.
Cliff introduced me as a friend, the rest is up to me.
We discussed this last night.
"I see, so...
Rudeus-dono, for what reason have you come to me?
Permissions for your mercenary company?
Or, is it for permission to sell your Supard race dolls?
Or perhaps for counsel on behalf of Dragon God Orsted?"
It's different.
Cliff, well it's already too late.
My purpose, the reason I came to this country...
It's fine, it would have come up sooner or later.
Well, it would have been better to end this without an outright
explanation.
...Huh?
Cliff was looking between us with a surprised face.
"As one would expect from someone called the Dragon God's right
arm.
Without even shifting an eyebrow... So it's like this Cliff?"
I was too slow to notice.
The Pope concluded his misunderstanding in an instant.
"I'm sorry, but I investigated a bit in advance."
He started to read a document with a smile.
"Rudeus Greyrat.
Of the distinguished Notus Greyrat family.
Son of Paul Greyrat, disciple of Sword King Ghyslaine Dedorudia.
After being involved in the Metastasis Event, returned on his own
after three years.
Attended the magic university, became acquaintances with Princess
Ariel.
Several years later, fought Dragon God Orsted and lost, then joined
his camp.
Behind the scenes in Asura Kingdom, orchestrated the defeat of
Water God Reida and North Emperor Auber.
Propelled current king Ariel Anemoi Asura to her current position.
Then, while organizing his own private army in various places,
appealed for various influential people to cooperate with Dragon
God Orsted...
Have I missed anything?"
That was pretty thorough.
But, that wasn't exactly private information.
You could get that sort of information by just asking around.
The person before my eyes is obviously trying to discern what kind
of person I am,
It's essential that I'm forthright.
It's not surprising.
There are mistakes.
"There are three mistakes.
From the Demon continent, I did not return on my own.
I borrowed the power of a warrior from the Supard race, Ruijerd.
Furthermore I did not defeat the Water God Reida or Auber alone,
Sword King Ghyslaine and Sword King Eris aided me.
And, most importantly, I am the disciple of water king-ranked Roxy
Migurdia."
"Hou, this is an honest one."
The Pope nodded with a [Fumufumu], and jotted something down on
the paper in his hand.
I don't know what you're writing, but at the very least add that I'm
Roxy's disciple.
"So when it comes to your reason for selling the Supard race dolls,
it's to repay that debt?
It's not a scheme to overthrow the government by increasing the
literacy rate?"
"Correct."
"Hou"
Even if the literacy rate rose, why would the government be
overthrown...
I guess that's the same theory as a cooper putting holes in his
barrels, so he can repair them later for a profit.
[3]
Part 2
Cliff still had things to do, so I left the headquarters alone.
"Phew..."
The moment I was out, I let out a big sigh.
That was tiring...
The Shrine Maiden and the Pope.
I met two interesting people today.
Both of them left interesting impressions.
Nevertheless, they each lead different factions.
The pro-demon race faction led by the Pope.
And the anti-demon race faction led by the Shrine Maiden.
The Temple Knights are part of the anti-faction.
The Latreia house as well.
Even good-natured people like Therese,
I would have expected them all to be fanatics.
If I'm asked who I support, needless to say it's the pro-faction, the
Pope's faction.
Be that as it may, Therese has helped me twice.
Even though I hate the Latreia house, I'm not ungrateful towards her.
Apart from her followers, the Shrine Maiden herself doesn't seem
detestable.
So, being reserved isn't wrong... I think.
As I originally planned, if possible, I want to maintain a neutral
position.
A lofty ideal.
Anyway, I should probably plan for more contact with that shrine
maiden.
I'm curious about her ability.
Whether or not she's one of Hitogami's apostles... that possibility still
exists.
It's difficult as always to discern apostles.
At least, I didn't run into Hitogami's interference setting up the
mercenary branch in Asura Kingdom.
Are my actions harmful to Hitogami or not...
At the present, I don't know. It's useless to think about.
So, for the time being, I'll be grateful that I haven't run into any
obstacles and act as I always have.
The moment there's a disturbance, when you feel something out of
place, is the moment to look for an apostle.
I have to keep my eyes open for suspicious people.
The Shrine Maiden, or Claire.
But, if I'm too focused on them, I'm bound to make a mistake.
For the sake of establishing a mercenary branch as soon as
possible, it would be nice to get in touch with Orsted by installing a
communication lithograph.
Yeah.
For the time being, I have the Pope's cooperation in this matter.
So, I should get started.
First, to purchase a suitable building for the mercenary branch.
Then set up a communication lithograph, and a magic teleportation
circle in case of emergency.
And, report to Orsted.
"Okay. The first step is to select a building."
The next step has been decided.
It would be good to leave selecting the building up to Aisha.
Whether we set up in the adventurer district or the commercial
district, she'll know what's best.
Aisha should have a good understanding of the area by now.
Having a trusted business partner, it's really reliable.
The problem is Zenith.
With Aisha out, we won't have anyone to look after her.
Perhaps Wendy could be taught to care for her...
Well, at this point such a thing can't be helped.
Let's have a discussion about it back at home.
Part 3
I left through town on the carriage and returned to Cliff's house in the
religious district.
It's dusk.
My stomach is empty, I'm looking forward to dinner.
I hope there are fresh eggs around here.
Boiled eggs, fried eggs, omelette...
There's bread too, so fried pork cutlets are also possible.
With just an egg, a whole new realm of foods open up, to increase
my enjoyment.
Our cook (Aisha) is really skilled.
"Here I am. With an empty stomach--"
"Not coming back until now, what's with that!?"
The second I returned, I heard Aisha's shout.
I hurried inside the house.
There, was the figure of my sister next to Wendy.
"Why did you go out!" [4]
Part 4
The sun has completely set.
Cliff returned with a tired expression.
Zenith and Gisu have not returned.
But, during this time, Aisha and I have regained our composure.
"I'm sorry... but, please don't blame Wendy too much, it's my fault..."
Cliff also went to rebuke Wendy, but Aisha came to her defense.
He probably didn't expect this kind of situation.
Originally, he called for the maid.
Moreover, because he called for a maid at the last minute, he should
understand that it wouldn't be a professional.
You can't blame someone's lack of ability.
But blame follows failure.
"I will go out to search. Cliff-senpai, please wait on standby."
"Ah, right..."
Even though I made that decision, it's already dinner time.
Waiting until now to start searching, it might be too late.
But, allow me to make an excuse,
If Zenith were out alone, I would have started searching immediately.
Gisu took her out.
If Wendy's story is true, she should be with Gisu.
That monkey bastard may not be able to fight, but he can do
anything else.
From information collection, mapping, shopping, cooking, equipment
maintenance, to managing the party's health.
His only fatal flaw as an adventurer is that he's useless in combat.
So, I felt a sense of confidence since Zenith was with Gisu.
But, if I think about it, being useless in combat can be fatal.
If he were caught up in some kind of incident, he might not have the
power to protect Zenith,
Gisu should have a high ability to avoid being caught up in those
types of incidents though.
But, his skill might not be perfect.
Zenith stepping on some belligerent old man's foot or something,
that kind of scenario is possible too.
Passing each other, they make eye contact, and then he socks her
in the face.
She's also with a demon race.
If someone from the Latreia house saw them, what would they think
seeing Gisu and Zenith together.
They would probably try to bring her back home.
In a quick attack, they might try to take Zenith back.
After all, she's still a member of the Latreia house.
If it's the Latreia house, it's also possible that that Gisu was a fake.
Similar looks and a similar height, teaching him how to talk like Gisu,
then pretending to be Gisu to convince Wendy... or something like
that.
Although you don't really see those types of guys around.
Also, I don't want to think this, but it's possible that Gisu is one of
Hitogami's apostles.
Gisu had been reluctant to enter the religious district, why would he
come back here.
That's something to consider, he could be acting on Hitogami's
advice...
Worrying won't do anything.
There's no use hesitating.
Regret won't help either.
We've already lost a lot of time.
I have to make a move.
I put on the MK-II and left the house.
"First of all, where should we search? Should we divide the work?"
Aisha followed as a matter of course.
Zenith is still missing... We're both becoming impatient.
If she starts becoming flustered, I have to calm her down.
"No, if you were kidnapped it would just add to the trouble. Let's
search together."
"Y-, yeah. Understood..."
Hearing the word kidnapped, Aisha held her breath.
She was probably considering the possibility of Zenith being
kidnapped.
Kidnapping in this world, is commonplace...
But it's unlikely.
To kidnap Zenith they would have to go through Gisu, an S-class
adventurer, it wouldn't be easy.
If it were me, I would look for a more defenseless target.
"..."
I took a few more steps, then suddenly stopped.
First of all, where should we start looking?
That's not good, I need to compose myself.
Calm down, everything's fine, I need to calm down.
Deep breaths.
"Suu... Haa..."
I have someone smarter than me at my side.
I should consult with her.
"Aisha... Where do you think Gisu would be?"
"Err... the adventurer district?"
"Why's that?"
"Gisu doesn't like being around St. Milis followers, and they tend to
stay around the religious district.
That leaves the commercial district and the adventurer district, and
since Gisu is an adventurer, it seems likely he'd be in the adventurer
district."
"Okay, lets start by searching the adventurer district."
As expected of Aisha, thinking carefully in this kind of situation.
We have to strike while the iron is hot.
"Let's hurry."
"Yeah, oh, that's right. Should we take horses? Or use the carriage?
"Hmm?"
Horses...
I still can't ride a horse.
Though that doesn't mean I'm incapable of riding a horse.
I've had a little practice, I also know how to drive the horse-drawn
carriage.
But we won't be able to move as freely with a carriage in an
emergency situation.
But that's no problem.
If I'm serious, I can run as fast as a horse.
"I don't need a horse."
"Eh?"
I picked Aisha up in a princess carry.
Then fed mana to the MK-II.
And bent my legs.
I've practiced softening the impact.
"Aisha, please hold on tight."
"Eh...? Ah!"
Aisha stiffened and tightly gripped my robe.
I held Aisha firmly in place.
"... Ah, ah! That's no good! Stop!"
I almost thought I heard something as I leapt into the night sky.
Notes
3. Literal comparison. The Pope was suggesting Rudy would increase the
literacy rate -> cause a rebellion -> fix the rebellion to sell Orsted's name/his
own agenda.
4. Kinda weird IMO. This is how I think the conversation should have unfolded
after I read the raw text: "Why did you allow her to go out?!" "Is, isn't it ok?"
"Why did you believe the words of an outsider!? You listened to the
conversation we had yesterday didn't you!? Why didn't you explain our
circumstances!? Even if you were to wait for a day before going out, wouldn't
it also be alright!? If you could have just waited a little bit more, I would've
gotten back soon! You could have also consulted with Onii-chan first!" "Ev-,
Even if you said all that, I.. I didn't really understand what you were talking
about yesterday, and it should be alright if it's with that person." "I've been
telling you all this time! It's not alright! You.. Could it be possible that you came
to hinder us!?"
Chapter 221 - Playing Dumb
Part 1
We arrived at the adventurer district, after a mere ten minutes.
Aisha's body was trembling, and she sank down to the ground.
Her legs seem to have given out.
Aisha might be weak to heights.
My bad.
"Oniichan, at least, travel on the ground..."
A lot of my family and acquaintances seem to be bad with heights.
Sylphy's also afraid of heights, and I'm not so good with them either.
Only Eris seems to like high places.
"I would have gotten into an accident running on the ground. Now,
let's quickly find mother."
"Uu... can't walk."
"Don't worry, I can give you a piggyback ride."
"No more jumping?"
"No jumping."
With Aisha settled on my back, we began the search.
That said, the adventurer district is big.
Where should we start...
"Oniichan, we should check the taverns. It's dinnertime, we might
find them eating somewhere."
"Ah, that's right."
In response to Aisha's advice, I began trotting down the street.
We checked the taverns down the street, looking for Zenith or Gisu.
Because it's dinnertime, the taverns are crowded.
However, it's unnecessary to check every person one by one.
By asking the tavern keepers, we can check quickly.
A woman with a blank expression with a monkey-faced demon race
man.
They should stand out.
Even this late, the adventurer district is still crowded.
Adventurers were returning from requests with their spoils.
Merchants were busy doing business with the adventurers.
After work, the adventurers were flocking to eat.
Tavern keepers were herding hungry adventurers into their bars.
Occasionally the sounds of a fight between adventurers or
mercenaries rang out.
Probably because of the late hour, there are few carriages on the
road.
So the possibility of Zenith being run over as she's walking about is
low.
With that I feel a little relieved.
"Monkey face? Ah, Gisu?
That guy, doesn't he stay at the [Spring's Eve]?"
We've already checked three inns.
Gisu has been in this country for awhile.
So just about everyone has seen him around.
"Did you see him with a woman?"
"A woman...? Hmm...?
The clerk tilted his head.
But, I'll know after I check.
I asked the clerk for directions to [Spring's Eve].
After tossing him a copper coin, we hurried to [Spring's Eve].
I have a bad feeling.
Part 2
The [Spring's Eve] inn was on skid row.
Prostitutes lined the streets, while men with vulgar expressions
passed by.
The red light district is probably nearby.
This is Milishion, there shouldn't be such a thing...
Even so, men were watching us with curiosity.
A serene silence follows us, I wonder if we're floating.
"Haha! Wha! What kind of play is that?"
"Oniichan, it's embarrassing put me down!"
Nope.
They were staring at me piggybacking Aisha.
I let Aisha down, and the stares stopped.
[Spring's Eve]
It has a normal front, but there's a lot of tough looking guys coming
and going.
Well, after coming to this world, I've become pretty tough as well.
I can enter this kind of place without being afraid.
Frankly, those guys at the Rudo-Mercenary office in Sharia are more
intimidating.
The idea that Zenith might be in such a place makes me anxious
though.
Gisu, what are you thinking...
If, that guy playfully says something like he sold Zenith to a brothel, I
won't forgive him.
I'll have two fists waiting for him.
"Ra~ssha~!"
As we came through the entrance, we heard the hustle and bustle of
the bartenders along with energetic voices.
It's not a particularly bad atmosphere.
It looks bad from the outside, but there's a bright atmosphere inside.
As for the class of visitors, there aren't only bad looking guys, there
are also a lot of ordinary adventurers.
Immediately after confirming the room, I went to pull aside the
nearest clerk--
"But I was too clever for that, so I said [These three magic circles
might be traps, what if there's another passage?]"
There.
Towards the back of the bar, a monkey-faced man, bragging proudly
to a group of young adventurers.
It felt like a familiar scene.
There was one boy with spiked hair.
The other boy had a nose piercing.
And an honest-looking girl.
Three people.
Zenith isn't with them.
I don't see Zenith anywhere around here.
"Then, just as I suspected, we searched the floor, and there it was,
the hidden passage to the boss room..."
Gisu noticed me as I approached the table.
He had an [Ah] face.
"Gisu."
"Y-, Yo senpai. I was just talking about you. You guys, this is
[Quagmire]."
Three people with frightened faces,
Like girls, they cowered in their seats.
What...
What kind of reaction is that.
Forget it.
That kind of thing, there are more important things to hear.
What first...
Alright, first, I should determine if Hitogami is involved.
"Gisu... that's bad luck. To become my enemy."
"Haa? What?"
"You've heard it, haven't you? A revelation, from that guy. Now that
it's come to this, what to do..."
"Whoa, dream? What?"
I pointed my finger at Gisu's laughing monkey face and started
pouring in mana.
Stone cannon, high-speed rotation.
I kept increasing the speed until a high pitched [Kyuuiin] sound could
be heard, like a drill.
The startled young adventurers started to get up.
"Don't move."
They instantly froze.
Then, I met Gisu's eyes, and asked again.
"What were you told, tell me everything. Tell me and I'll spare your
life."
"Oi, o-, oi seri-, seriously, st-, stop it... th-that's no good! I-, I don't
know, I was bad, stop, don't bring it any closer!"
I inched the tip of my finger towards Gisu's head.
Then Gisu leapt up from his chair and prostrated himself on the spot.
And, without an ounce of shame, began apologizing.
"I-, I did something wrong! And for that I'm sorry! I have angered
Rudeus! But I don't know what I did! Please tell me! I did something
bad, I'm sorry! I am truly sorry!"
What's this?
This, this isn't what I expected.
It left me dumbfounded.
I guess he's not Hitogami's apostle...?
I don't know.
However, after all this... I feel like I'm the one who should apologize.
"... What happened to mother?"
"Ah?"
Gisu raised his face with a puzzled look.
He was red-faced and drunk, staring with a blank look of confusion.
If this is an act, it's amazing.
"My mother. Zenith."
"...? No, after showing her around town, she was taken home?"
"She didn't come back, that's why I'm here."
I crossed my arms, and one of the boys let out a laugh.
I looked over, and Aisha was in the same pose nodding.
This isn't the time for jokes, it happened by chance.
I gave the kid a scowl, and he stiffened up with a [Hii].
"Eh... but... I definitely sent her home?"
"How?"
"We were near the edge of the adventurer district. Then, we met up
with that guy from your house, and I entrusted Zenith to him."
.... What?
I sent someone?
My house?
Cliff and I were at the at the religious headquarters.
Aisha was out shopping, Wendy was at the house...
No, that's not it.
It's not MY house.
"Was it, someone from the Latreia house...?"
"Yeah yeah, I checked their coat of arms? Without a doubt, they
were from the Latreia house."
My heart's starting to race.
The Latreia house, Zenith, was taken.
Calm down, focus.
First, Gisu took out Zenith.
But why?
"In the first place, why did you take mother out?"
"Even if you ask why, I haven't seen Zenith and Senpai in such a long
time, I just wanted to try talking for a bit..."
He did it on a whim.
Okay. That seems like the normal Gisu...
No wait, that's strange.
"You, why did you know where to find Cliff's house?"
"I asked by the Latreia house first.
Well, I didn't really want to go, but I thought it would be okay
because of Senpai...
Then, I heard you and Zenith were staying somewhere else, so I
asked for directions."
"I thought you hated entering the religious district?"
"Yeah I don't like to go without a reason, but that doesn't mean I'd
never go."
Gisu's excuse was a little airy.
Vague.
Well he's been drinking, it's no wonder the story is confusing.
"...."
I get it.
I understand what happened.
In other words, the story was something like this.
Yesterday, I left the Latreia house in a rage.
But, we returned to Cliff's house on foot, so we could have been
tailed.
Careless, I never noticed, they must have found out where we were
staying.
The Latreia and Grimoire houses are in opposing factions.
They probably wanted to 'save' Zenith, it's not hard to imagine.
That said, it would be difficult for them to attack the Grimoire house.
Their faction may have the upper hand, but a scandal like that could
take them down.
So, the Latreia house used Gisu.
A man from a demon race who nonchalantly introduced himself as
my friend.
Normally, they would turn someone like that away.
But, despite being part of the anti-demon race faction, they must
have come up with a plan to use him.
They used him to get Zenith outside the house.
Gisu didn't immediately bring Zenith out, and they had to take into
account any other escorts.
However, there were no other escorts.
I was out, and Aisha had left with bad timing.
Those Latreia guys lucked out, and were able to smoothly secure
Zenith.
After all that, they'll probably just play dumb.
As for Gisu?
They'll probably pretend not to recognize him.
They'll say something like [There's no way we would associate with
a filthy demon race.]
Zenith has been kidnapped, they must be holding her somewhere.
She must have a caretaker or someone I can follow.
"O-, oi, Senpai, what's wrong...?"
".... Never mind that. You, when you went to the Latreia house, what
did they say?"
"Eh? Ah, something like Zenith would miss seeing her hometown
since she just came back and that I should take her out..."
It's not Gisu's fault then.
He didn't know anything.
He went to the Latreia house because I was the one who said I'd be
staying there.
He thought that was my house, and they answered his questions, so
he had no reason to doubt them.
In such a situation, it can't be helped that he became a puppet.
It was my own carelessness.
I should have checked on Zenith today.
Because of that single mistake things had become like this.
After all this, I wish I had stealthily taken Zenith out to see the town.
Regrets are useless.
I need to rescue Zenith.
"Gisu... Actually--"
After hearing the story from Gisu, I decided to ask for his
cooperation.
In this kind of situation, I'd like to have Gisu's support.
Even so, this guy is also responsible.
I don't think he's one of Hitogami's apostles.
"... Seriously?"
When I finished my explanation, Gisu had a bitter face.
"I see, yeah, I thought it was a little weird. Senpai wasn't staying at
the Latreia house... I thought Senpai was just... taking her out,
something like that..."
A discrepancy in information.
A weakness was shown, and the opponent exploited it.
But anyone could have made that mistake.
It's time to save Zenith.
"I understand. I want to cooperate."
"Yeah."
With Gisu, we decided to immediately go confront the Latreia house.
Even though it might be useless.
Part 3
By the time we arrived at the Latreia house, the town had already
fallen silent.
Dinner has passed, it's evening, people are probably preparing to go
to sleep.
I intended to rush over here, but I had two passengers.
There's no helping that it slowed me down.
Aisha was half in tears muttering something like [Oniichan's a fibber.]
[1]
"We're here."
Now then, the Latreia house still had their lights on.
But there was nobody at the gate.
There's no doorbell either.
I need to call someone over to let us in.
Should I yell?
... If I were a normal visitor, what would I do.
No, if I were a normal visitor, I would probably turn around and
leave.
What do I care.
"It's Rudeus! Get out here!"
I let out a shout while I banged on the gate.
I don't care about disturbing the neighbors.
They may not think it's a great cause, but the justification is there.
They abducted Zenith, they're in the wrong.
But if the person who claimed to be from the Latreia house and took
Zenith from Gisu was a fake, then Zenith really was kidnapped.
Even though I intended to cut my ties with the Latreia house, this is
their problem too.
"...."
There's no answer.
I continued banging on the gate and shouting.
The metal gate started to warp from being hit by the MK-II.
"I want to have a chat about a matter concerning my mother!"
Still no answer.
Better yet I'll just break the gate.
"This gate is going to break if you don't send someone out!"
Nothing, they seem to have declined my offer, so I started packing
mana into my right hand.
It's a mistake if you think you can stop me with a gate of this caliber.
"O-, oi Senpai wait! That's no good!"
I was stopped.
The blood seemed to be rushing to my head.
But, we're in a rush.
The other day, Claire was talking about marrying Zenith off to have
kids.
Find a partner, hold a wedding, decided a house, start a family...
I guess that kind of thing would take time.
And if I investigate the Latreia house, then sooner or later I'll find
traces of Zenith.
But there's one thing.
If the only goal is making children, then presto.
All you have to do is prepare a man and a woman, throw them in
bed for half an hour, and it's done.
There's the idea of [Fait Accompli] in this world too. [2]
When we find Zenith, it might already be too late, she might already
be despondent.
I don't think that old woman would do something like that to her own
daughter.
I want to hope so, but I have no idea what that old woman is
thinking, wanting to marry off her invalid daughter.
So we need to act quickly.
But breaking down the gate might be hasty.
Even one shot from my Stone Cannon would be loud enough to
wake the neighborhood.
I don't know about the laws in this country, but destroying the gate
would probably be frowned upon.
If people gather and call the guards... If we're labeled as criminals, it
will only end up causing trouble for Cliff and the Pope.
I need to think this through, I can't act rashly.
"Alright. Then let's sneak in, I'll unlock the gate with earth magic--"
"Sneak in? What are you going to do?"
A voice from the other side of the gate.
Before I had noticed, five men and women had gathered on the
other side of the gate.
Three soldiers, one butler.
And, dressed in elegant attire, one old woman.
"At this late hour, what business do you have with this family?"
"...."
Claire Latreia.
I guess she heard me yelling.
Or, did she prepare to meet me beforehand...
"Claire-san... isn't your method a little too underhanded?"
"What are you talking about?"
"You used Gisu, to kidnap my mother."
As I said that, Claire looked at Gisu and lowered her eyebrows.
"Kidnapped? I know of no such thing."
"Going senile, eh? I guess this was to be expected..."
I winked at Gisu.
He returned a nod, and signaled at one of the guards.
"That guy. He came to pick her up."
"...."
He pointed at the guard.
That guy quickly put on a befuddled expression and shrugged.
He's trying to pretend he doesn't know.
"In this house, I have strictly forbidden associating with demon
races.
Dealing with such such a filthy demon race, such a thing is
impossible."
Claire gave Gisu a cold stare and said it flatly.
"If Zenith has been kidnapped, then we will send out a search party.
Of course, this demon race may be lying,
So I intend to hear his story in full detail..."
"Ugh..."
Gisu let out a groan and edged back.
Then silence.
Gisu is probably thinking that he might not survive tonight.
If that happens, then I probably won't be able to find Zenith. [3]
"......"
Claire did not answer.
But she averted her gaze like she was unable to bear looking at me.
Why are you making such a face.
What is she thinking? [5]
She's losing her composure. [6]
That's right.
Yeah.
I have to endure it, I have to keep her talking, and figure out her
intention...
"The palace guards have arrived."
It was different.
Claire didn't avert her eyes.
She was looking behind us, out into the street.
There, guards, with lamps in hand, were running towards us.
"That is enough, piling up accusations in such a place, will I have to
report you?"
I glared at Claire.
I gave a cold glare to this stubborn old woman who wouldn't listen to
a word I said.
In my head, a vision of holding this old woman hostage and
demanding she return Zenith flashed.
This gate is virtually nothing to me.
I could burst through the gate, hoist the old hag by the neck, and
shout [Bring Zenith, NOW!] to those guys.
It wouldn't even take two seconds.
Only an instant.
But, would that bring Zenith back?
Looking at this old woman's cold-hearted face...
The other day, I went on a rampage.
From what I heard later, I blew away 6 or 7 guards.
Now there are twice as many guards surrounding me, and probably
more on their way.
But, the only thing separating us is the gate.
"... Even if I have to take you hostage, I will find Zenith."
"Then do it. If you think that will bring Zenith back."
Arrogant.
Where does she get the courage to say that?
She should understand, I won't hesitate to act violently.
Don't you care about what happens to you?
Why do such a thing?
Shit, I can't read her intent.
Do you want me to go on a rampage...?
In front of the palace guards?
"Claire-san, could it be, you have been receiving divine revelations in
your dreams?"
"... Ha? Asking that so suddenly? Divine revelation?"
Claire, for a moment, broke her cold expression.
She had a blank face. Completely, without any idea.
Gisu had a similar face earlier.
This, no.
She's not one of Hitogami's apostles.
However, that expression only lasted for a moment.
"... Hmph."
She averted her gaze, and focused on the approaching palace
guards.
"Temple Knights [Bow Division] of the city guard! We heard reports
of a loud noise, what has happened?"
"These people--"
"--I understand. We will withdraw for today."
Saying that took my last ounce of reason.
Part 4
It's time to return.
While feeling depressed, I walked down the street of the residential
area.
My thoughts are running in circles.
I understand that I am not calm.
It's hopeless, anger and frustration are consuming my thoughts.
"...."
I have no idea where Zenith is.
But, after that exchange.
In the face of that silent response.
I am convinced.
Claire took advantage of Gisu to kidnap Zenith.
I have no doubt.
Though I was also at fault... But without even coming to talk, to
abduct her one-sidedly, feign ignorance, and then send me away...
Damn...
"That went badly... I'm no good in those types of situations."
"No, Gisu. You're not bad. You were thinking of mother, and even
went to the religious district for her, didn't you?"
"A-, Ah..."
Gisu isn't a bad guy.
He was just used.
Although I think the timing was too good.
"Gisu... Mother, can you find her?"
"It's possible, but it might not go well?"
"I guess..."
Gisu is a demon race.
Just walking through the residential area, he attracts the eyes of
passing soldiers.
Searching the religious district would be next to impossible.
I need to search for Zenith.
"...."
But, even indirectly, he can be useful.
I don't care about the methods as long as we can find the place.
I also have an idea.
Rudeus Greyrat is the enemy of the anti-demon race faction starting
today.
Claire-baasan, you caused this.
I'll do it...
"Aisha, Gisu... This may be a little dangerous, but please help me."
"Of course... Oniichan... what do we need to do?"
Aisha asked in an uneasy voice.
I calmly looked down at Aisha and said...
"Kidnap the Shrine Maiden."
Gisu lurched up.
"Huh!? What kind of crazy stuff are you saying without warning!?"
Then came up to me and grabbed me by the shoulders.
"What the hell!"
"The Latreia house has deep ties with the Temple Knights. The
Temple Knights are part of the Cardinal faction. The Cardinal faction
is led by the Shrine Maiden, shouldn't she have the most influence
here? So she'll be the most effective hostage. With her, we can
definitely get mother back..."
I mean, using the Shrine Maiden in a hostage exchange is just an
idea.
If our opponents have resorted to kidnapping, then it would be
suitable as revenge.
"Yeah it might be effective, but think about the consequences! Even
if Zenith is returned safely, the entire country of Milis could become
your enemy!?"
Milis doesn't matter.
If it comes down to it I have Orsted's power and Ariel's authority.
I can give up my activities in this country.
Zenith is more important.
Fighting against Hitogami is also important, but I won't let that stop
me from protecting my family.
"Senpai might be able to manage somehow, but I'm a demon race!
I'll be killed just for knowing you!"
Gisu sounds pitiful.
Hearing the word 'killed' cooled my head a bit. I need to calm down.
The Latreia house, as well as the Temple Knights, would certainly
become my enemy, but everyone around me would also be put in
danger.
The army corp meeting at noon today was massive.
I don't know what to do.
The Pope won't take much heat, but Cliff would be targeted.
Thinking back, Aisha and Zanoba were killed by knights from Milis in
the future diary.
In other words, if Milis becomes my enemy, I won't be safe even if I
return to Sharia.
Moreover, it would definitely turn into an obstacle later on.
There are Milis followers all over the central continent.
The mercenary company's activities may be hindered.
Originally, I came here to become an ally of Milis.
If they're still hostile when Laplace revives...
That would definitely benefit Hitogami...
No, Hitogami couldn't predict that I would kidnap the Shrine Maiden.
This is just paranoia.
In any case, kidnapping the Shrine Maiden, it's a bad move.
No.... Wait.
Kidnapping the Shrine Maiden, didn't the Pope imply something like
that.
If it goes well, then I might be able to rescue Zenith while crushing
the Latreia house and the Cardinal faction.
I wouldn't mind siding with the Pope.
Anyway, if I want to sell the Ruijerd dolls, it's unavoidable.
Cliff should be able to understand.
It's regrettable about Therese.
Therese is the captain of the Shrine Maiden's escorts.
I'll be repaying the kindness of the woman who helped me twice, 10
years ago and yesterday, with enmity.
... Shit.
"Aisha, what do you think?"
I should ask for Aisha's opinion.
She was looking down with a serious and troubled face, but looked
up at my words.
"Kidnapping the Shrine Maiden, I think that's going too far."
"I see."
"This isn't like my Oniichan who's calm and composed all the time... I
think."
Your oniichan definitely isn't calm.
But, well, I see what she means, just now, that definitely wasn't
calm.
If I don't calm down, it will be too easy to make errors in judgment.
Yeah...
Alright, calm down... I need to cam down and think.
First of all, blaming everything on Hitogami right now might be over-
thinking it.
Thinking that guy is involved just leads to paranoia,
This is a problem between me and the Latreia house.
For now, that is.
Although I think the possibility is low from her reaction, but it's
possible Claire is trying to bait me into a conflict with the Cardinal
faction...
Anyway, I'm a man of the Pope's faction.
Doing that kind of thing to a man from the Pope's faction would be
effective.
Claire's actions have had the opposite effect.
In the present situation, even if I suspect Hitogami's involvement, my
only option is to annihilate any potential apostles.
This time, I can't just go around killing people, [8]
Notes
1. He was probably playing Superman again through the night sky, but it doesn't
give specifics.
2. Fait Accompli - It's already done, so you have no choice but to accept it.
5. やはり彼女にも、思う所があるのか? Bad TL
6. 自分のやってることはおかしいという自覚が。 Bad TL
Part 1
The next day.
I went into the room protected with the barrier once again, and met
with the Pope.
Cliff was standing to the side.
I touched my cheek.
Although I just shaved, I can feel some remaining whiskers.
I got angry remembering Claire's speech and conduct and couldn't
sleep last night, as well.
I'm sure my face is a horrible mess.
"Yes. Is today's audience concerning that matter?"
After I told him the details concerning yesterdays events, the Pope
squinted slightly.
"He is my friend. This isn't about the faction, it's about family. I don't
think it is right to bring up bargaining points..."
"That is why I bring them up, Cliff."
"... I've never met the Count, who's the head of the family. It could
be the uninformed Countess acting on her own."
Even if Claire heard the information, people have their own senses of
values.
I'm not a noble, nor do I hold an important office in any country.
Even if she hears that I am the underling of some warrior who she
only knows is called the Dragon God, she wouldn't really
understand.
Even if I say I have connections with Ariel, she wouldn't know how
close a relationship we hold.
She may think I'm simply a powerless person borrowing someone
else's authority.
From the view of Claire's common sense, I may not have any merit.
"Let's see..."
"Of course, that's only in terms of what I'm willing to do for your
eminence. If I wanted to, I could reduce a town to ashes or make a
forest into a vacant lot."
If, for argument's sake, Zenith had that determination, and came
here of her own will, the story would be different.
If in refusal she fought and lost, and ended up like that. That I could
still pardon.
That's right.
I want to give Claire those feelings.
It's your fault the miko was kidnapped.
After being blamed and told to take responsibility, a troubled and
helpless Claire.
I want to see that.
"Rudeus, it's not too late, you can still talk this over with them. If you
want I could be there with you."
"Cliff-senpai..."
"The Latreia house offered to help you search for your mother, didn't
they? That should have been out of consideration for your mother
and sisters. Couldn't it be that in this case you are simply
misunderstanding each other, and if you share your thoughts with
each other you can come to an understanding?"
At the Pope's words I bowed my head, and Cliff let out a sigh of
relief.
Part 2
Starting the next day, I began consulting with Therese.
However, there was a slight problem.
Group.
She normally stays together with the miko and protects her.
As for what that miko, she normally doesn't do much of anything at
all.
Like the Pope, the miko is normally confined to the center of the
church headquarters.
She seems to have frequently gone out in the past, but since the
assassination attempt, she doesn't leave the headquarters unless on
church business.
She goes out to the park that's open to all believers, looks at the
trees and flowers, has silly conversations with her guards, and
listens to the occasional commoner.
To the miko that lives an extremely confined lifestyle, it's the one and
only thing she has to look forward to.
trees.
Furthermore, I bring a canvas with me and draw pictures.
The pictures can't be finished in a single day, so it becomes an
excuse to visit every day.
At the same time, Aisha and Gisu are moving on their own.
Aisha is searching for a building at max speed.
Gisu is searching for Zenith while his hires are observing the Latreia
house's servants.
Of course, there are no results yet.
While doing such, I ran into the miko on her free day.
"I can't imagine mother being that high-handed... Anyway, I'll have a
day off soon. During that time, I'll talk with mother. Don't worry,
Zenith isn't going to be married of to some other man while you
aren't aware."
Therese said that while thumping her chest, which is just as large as
Zenith's.
How reliable.
Truly reliable.
Part 3
Several days passed.
Zenith still hasn't been found.
According to Gisu, none of the servants have been showing
suspicious movements.
There weren't any trying to make contact with someone outside,
either.
Of course, there were no signs of Zenith entering or leaving.
Therefore, Gisu assessed that the probability of Zenith being inside
the estate is high.
According to Orsted, her power only allows her to see them so it's
impossible, but...
If I get a chance, I'll try to get her to examine Zenith.
It seems that no matter which loop, she usually would die around
age 10, and would never live to see age 30.
Whether you consider her fate or power, her chance of being
Hitogami's apostle is close to zero, according to Orsted.
The eldest daughter Anise has married into the family of Marquis
Birnkrant.[8]
But then, the most ideal situation for me is if Cliff becomes Pope.
There is the possibility of Hitogami acting to prevent that.
However, even considering that the recent development is strange.
I can't see the meaning in kidnapping Zenith.
Honestly, it seems fine to consider Hitogami's involvement to be
minimal.
"If you're not sure about someone, kill them. It may thwart
Hitogami's predictions." [9]
Part 4
Another few days pass.
Therese came bearing good news.
Therese used one of her few vacation days to meet with Claire.
While being cross-examined, it seems she indirectly admitted to
using her subordinates to deceive Gisu and kidnap Zenith.
Thus, she is definitely confining Zenith somewhere.
Something like, that kind of person said that he'll care for Zenith until
he dies, so isn't it fine to entrust her to him?
However, Claire gave some meaningless reply and evaded the topic.
"She ended up moving the topic to asking me when I'll finally get
married... Sorry. When she says that it always turns into a fight..."
"..."
Gisu said that after the kidnapping, there have been no suspicious
movements.
Claire was acting as if she were hiding something, or conflicted.
The information from Orsted that she's not the type of person to
forcibly kidnap someone.
Something may be going on after all.
I don't really understand the logic there, but if Therese says so then
it's certainly true.
I don't think any of the guards noticed that I'm avoiding eye contact.
Even if they did, the headquarters seem to be full of people who
avoid eye contact with the miko.
Anybody would find it unpleasant to have their memories read.
Nobody should find it strange to avoid eye contact with her.
"Instead of Zenith who has such a magnificent son, why can't they
try to find a partner for me?... *sigh*"
Part 5
Another few days pass.
It's been 14, maybe 15 days since I came to this country.
New information arrived from Gisu and Aisha, who participated in the
search after securing a base.
Yesterday, someone from a clothing store came and went from the
Latreia house.
When Aisha and her helpers tied her up, they found out that she had
received an order for a wedding dress, and took measurements for
it from a woman in the Latreia household.
Since the woman was described as slightly past her prime with a
vacant look in her eyes, it's definitely Zenith.
Furthermore, Claire seems to have had her butler go out in secret
yesterday to contact someone in the church.
From the course of events, I guess a marriage partner has been
found.
If that's the case, we're almost out of time.
If the whole family including the head are opposed, Claire can't
simply do what she wants.
Even if she manages the household, she's not the head.
Even if she tries to do something, it's just a matter of time.
You could call it, checkmate.
I can't be thankful enough to Therese who quickly changed the
situation.
Good.
Somehow, it seems we can put an end to it simply as a problem
between me and the house.
Without causing trouble for Cliff or the Pope, we can use the whole
Latreia family besides Claire as intermediaries.
There have been twists and turns, but it looks like it will settle into
the ideal form.
Yup.
It's a good thing I didn't rampage back there after all.
If I properly consult with my surroundings and remove the obstacles,
there's no problem at all.
There was no need to kidnap the miko.
Back then, I wasn't thinking straight.
If you try to find a way to break through everything in one shot, you
may end up doing something outrageous.
"..."
The miko also said that she'd like to have the picture when it's done.
If my pictures are fine with you, you can have as many as you want.
Normally, a while after I enter the park a number of guards will enter
the garden and patrol, and then the miko will come out.
There usually isn't anyone there around this time, I wonder if they
started the patrol early.
Or maybe, it's someone else entirely.
I stepped foot inside the garden.
"Hm?"
Now that I get a closer look, I can see footprints in the flowerbed.
One set of footprints.
They lead to the other side of the Sarak tree.
Someone seems to be hiding behind its trunk.
"...Therese-san?"
While letting out a stronger voice, I instill the Magic Armor with
mana.
Ready for battle.
While distributing my attention to all my surroundings, I approach the
Sarak tree.
"Huh?"
When I took a large back-step, I slammed into the wall behind me.
When I looked back, there is nothing there.
No, there was an invisible wall.
"...!"
I immediately look to my feet.
There, hidden in the light of the morning sun, is a magic circle that's
faintly glowing with a pale blue light.
The men wearing helmets stabbed their swords into the ground,
scabbard and all.
A strange sound echoed throughout the surroundings. [16]
Notes
2. Yeah, basically it's saying that the Latreia house would be giving up something
small (shrimp i.e. Zenith) to get something big (sea bream i.e. favor from the
Grimoire house). The Grimoire house isn't getting enough out of the deal to
make it worthwhile. I couldn't really think of a good metaphor that could be
used in English, so if someone has an idea, please by any means feel free to
replace it.
5. All these familial titles that I translated are the less known formal versions,
e.g. Chichiue or Aniue. If it were to say something like Onii-chan, I won't
translate it.
8. A google search for バークラント gave me the profile of Don H. Birnkrant, who
filmed Red Flag: The Ultimate Game, so that's what I'll use for the name. By
the way, a similar search for ラトレイア gave me the Catholic term 'Latria'.
9. I'm not sure if this sentence is about thwarting Hitogami or crushing his own
doubts. 思惑を潰せる
10. Not too sure about acknowledge, the word that was used refers to actual
feelings.
12. Whenever I come across furigana like this, I'm tempted to use strikethroughs
instead.
13. Okay, I really have no idea here. A completely opposite emotion from
preparations? 準備とは真逆の感情だ。
15. オタサーの姫 refers to a girl in a social circle that's mostly men, like an otaku
circle.
16. A strange sound that combines a clang and a ザクリ(zakuri - stabbing sound
effect that has no english equivalent).
Chapter 223 - Turning Over and
Picking Up the King Piece
Part 1
Hello everyone.
Rudeus Greyrat here.
Presently, I'm surrounded by those guys.
You know, those guys in polished blue armor. Eight knights were
closing in around me.
Today I think I'll take a moment to introduce them one by one.
Knight #1, Therese, directly in front of me.
Therese Latreia.
Yep.
My aunt, one of Latreia's lot.
Out of all the Temple Knights in the expulsion faction, she has a
slightly different nature.
She was sympathetic to me despite my ties to the demon race...
Rather, demons and humans, we're really not all that different, are
we?
You'd normally show me a kindhearted face, but what kind of
expression are you wearing now?
Your face is hidden by a helmet, so I can't tell.
Let's proceed clockwise, to the right.
And, on Therese's right...
A man wearing a skull-like helmet.
The side of his breastplate is cracked.
That injury looks familiar.
I don't know his name, but he looks like a knight with a name like
[Skull Ash].
He's a skull-head, no doubt.
Next to him...
A man wearing a garbage can-like helmet you'd see on the street
corners of Milis.
Out of the 7 other people here, only you chose to wear a red cloak.
The Miko really likes that cloak, she would always wipe her dirty
hands on it.
I think his name was [Dust Box].
And to his right...
A man wearing a smooth helmet with the words [Sleep Peacefully]
engraved in it.
He's probably over two meters tall.
Once I'd seen the Miko ride on top of his shoulders to pick fruits off
the trees in the garden.
His name was something like [Grave Keeper].
Number four...
He's wearing a helmet like a bamboo broom on his head. [1]
Part 2
"All hands! Spread out!"
At Therese's command, the Temple Knights jumped back.
I sidestepped towards the Temple Knights as they were trying to
take distance, and started generating rock bullets with both hands.
Speed and hardness so-so.
Only to the degree that they might die if I hit them in the vitals.
Firing.
You're up first, Dust Box!
"Support!"
"Goodbye!"
The two rock bullets I fired towards Dust were deflected by the
Temple Knights at his sides.
In their hands were something like translucent shields.
Elementary ranked barrier magic, [Magic Shield].
... Is that really elementary ranked? I was stopped by an elementary
ranked spell?
"Dust, Grave, Skull right flank!
Trash, Coffin, Burial take the left!
Cortege and I will act as a mobile unit!"
Three people on each side fired magic off in unison.
Fire, water, and earth.
Three different attributes, not that it matters.
"[Absorption]"
While dissolving the magic with my gauntlet, I fired rock bullets to
counter.
But, they were repelled.
The guy casting the barrier magic seems to be defending from
behind.
"--With your blessing the small ember becomes a searing flame!
[Flamethrower]!"
"--Bring down your majestic sword of ice, and strike! [Icicle Break]!"
At the same time magic was fired off from the other side.
Fire and water.
That's not it! The third one had his hands on the ground.
An Earth Lance!
"[Absorption]!"
I dissolved the fire and water magic simultaneously.
At the same time I countered the Earth Lance by creating a
quagmire to disable it.
Oops, I was too slow.
I can't fire a counter.
But my legs still work.
I instantly back-stepped to avoid the magic flying at me from the
other side.
Only one spell.
Only a fire spell. It looked like a normal [Fire Ball]?
Only one?
There are three enemies on that side, why not three?
I don't have time to think about that.
I aimed my hands at both their left and right flanks.
"[Stone Cannon]!"
Because I had gained some distance stepping back, I saw it well.
The Temple Knights' formation had three people on each side.
Among them, two people had translucent shields, and jumped to
defend from my rock bullets.
Well played.
Though I'd increased the speed and mass of the rock bullets from
earlier, they easily deflected them.
That style looks familiar.
The Water God Style.
I see, it can even be used in conjunction with barrier magic. That's
amazing.
"Spirits of the earth! Answer my call and rise fourth to pierce the
heavens! [Earth Lance]!"
"Magnificent spirits of the water, I appeal to the Emperor of
Thunder! Bring down your majestic sword of ice, and strike! [Icicle
Break]!"
In that moment, two of the Knights without the shields fired off
spells.
Naturally, I dissolved them... Now, what to do.
The enemy has separated into a left flank and a right flank with three
people each.
Among those three people, two use barriers to deflect my magic.
Because I've only been firing two bullets at a time, their two barrier
strategy has been serving them well.
The third person counters by firing off an attack spell.
Then the flank that I didn't attack momentarily drops their shields.
And, when I'm defenseless, they fire off three spells.
They were able to fire off spells with three different attributes
because they didn't leave two on defense.
I guess they're a bit short on information about me, since they're
unaware that my magic absorption stone can simultaneously negate
all magic.
At first they were only able to use magic to attack me from one side,
probably because of the distance.
At that distance I was able to break into the core of their formation.
It should be possible to get an attack in while they're chanting...
They should be particularly vulnerable while their shields are down...
But, it won't work unless I break into their formation.
... That might not be a good idea.
Well, let's see how you like this?
"[Fireball]!"
While deliberately shouting loudly, I started packing mana into the
spell.
Enough to generate a fire ball about two meters in diameter.
It had the size and heat of an advanced ranked spell.
But compared to the rock bullet's speed, it's slow.
Gently, I threw it like a slowball.
Aiming for both flanks.
"Support!"
Two knights stepped forward with barriers to block.
But, the magic barrier has a weakness.
"Ran Ma [Disturb Magic]!"
"!?"
I dissolved their barriers with [Ran Ma].
Both of the barriers protecting the left flank fell simultaneously.
Barrier magic, like most spells, continues to consume mana as you
use it.
It's the same even for elementary ranked barrier magic.
In other words, even if they aren't chanting, I can negate it with [Ran
Ma].
The right flank will still be protected, but, this is their loss.
"...!"
And the moment I thought that, something came flying at me from
behind.
While looking back, I brought my right arm up to defend.
With a loud [Ga~an], something broke into pieces and shattered.
A brown rock, flying towards my face, was reduced to debris.
I received some of the impact around my elbow.
It was a rock bullet.
This was the first time my opponents have used that spell.
"Rudeus can use magic with both hands!
Two people are on defense, if an attack comes switch.
There's no room for mistakes!"
Therese and another person had snuck up behind me.
Now, I have to defend from the rear as well.
"...."
Before I noticed it, I had been surrounded.
I'm beginning to fall behind, that was a blunder.
No, I wonder what kind of countermeasures they have for close-
combat.
The knights who received the fireball earlier are alive and well, with
the exception of some smoke coming off their armor.
"Rudeus-kun. We are the strongest in the Temple Knights. You have
no chance of winning."
"Really?"
"In the past ten days we have investigated your fighting style.
Thanks to your fame, we were able to arrange countermeasures."
Fumu.
Then, why haven't you drawn your swords?
I only use magic.
No, in the current situation, they may not be able to avoid my magic
in close-combat.
Of course, I still have some tricks up my sleeves.
They might be weary of that, and avoiding close-quarters combat as
a precaution.
Given my present situation, their strategy could be called effective.
But, if this becomes a fight of attrition, then I will have the upper
hand.
They might have more countermeasures...
Then, it's about time I made my next move.
"Rudeus-kun, please surrender! You may have been able to use your
magic tool to escape our barrier, but this is your loss, give up!"
"Hou?"
"The entrance to the garden is blocked by barrier magic! Help will
not come!"
Is that right.
If you say it like that, then it's perfect.
They must have carefully devised this strategy to capture me.
I can't win with half-assed tactics.
I have to be thorough.
I might have to experiment in order to break through.
But, if I lose as a result, that would be disastrous.
"...[Quagmire]."
It's time to get serious.
Part 3
Therese's Perspective
At the same time Rudeus let out that murmur, my feet sunk into mud.
We were given information about this magic as well.
It's the same as Rudeus Greyrat's nickname, [Quagmire].
Normally, this magic would just produce a slick puddle at your
opponents' feet.
But, as expected, this is a massive spell.
The entirety of this huge garden has become a muddy swamp.
Miko-sama's beloved Saraku trees and Balta trees began to creak
as they started to sink into the mud. [5]
Part 3
Rudeus' Perspective
I may have been at a disadvantage, but it's time to take the kid
gloves off.
The fog is rapidly clearing.
Those guys are dumbfounded, they weren't prepared for this.
While opening my foresight eye I confirmed the positions of the guys
with the barriers, one shot, two shots, three shots.
I easily penetrated their defenses.
Then smashed them with the MK-I's shield.
Of course, I went easy on them.
I only knocked them out.
They probably aren't dead.
At the same time I took another three down with the Gatling gun.
I swung my left arm in a wide arc.
There was a sound like a loud hum as my Gatling gun spat out a
stream of rock bullets.
The three folded like twigs as my rock bullets crushed their shins.
I took care not to blow their legs off.
I also avoided their vitals, they shouldn't be dead, just stunned.
But, just in case, I nailed each of them in the head with another rock
bullet to make sure they were out cold.
Two left.
I took a step back before turning around, like Orsted taught me to.
If an enemy attacks from behind, you have to use quick footwork to
avoid them.
I didn't feel an attack coming, but it was just to make sure.
When I turned around, Therese was in front of me.
Her eyes were wide, and her mouth was hanging open, watching
me.
The one next to her started to unsheathe his sword to defend her.
But, too late.
You're too slow.
If it had been Eris, she would have cut him down ten times before he
had drawn his sword.
With the MK-I I can easily deal with this level of speed.
These guys can't compare to my training.
Before he could unsheathe his sword, I swatted him away with my
fist.
He was blown away before he could make a sound, and crashed
into the wall of the headquarters, stunned.
Therese was still standing there with a frozen look of amazement.
She had a face as if she had no idea what had happened.
"W-, what..."
To her, I gave my minimum considerations, and knocked her out with
a rock bullet rather than my fist.
Done.
After all, the MK-I can only be described as overwhelming.
I was able to finish off my opponents before they had a single
opportunity to attack, and unceremoniously broke through all of their
defenses.
I wonder if I'm being immature?
Therese, and the other Temple Knights, were scattered on the
ground around me.
Nobody died.
Unless I find one of Hitogami's apostles, I'd like to avoid killing as
much as possible.
That's my rule.
I was able to afford it this time.
"Haah~... I feel refreshed."
Recently, perhaps because I've had so much frustration
accumulating, that was awfully refreshing.
After all, it's no good if you don't go on a rampage once in awhile.
At least according to Eris...
No, that's too violent.
However, what should I do now?
After all this, the Temple Knights will undoubtedly turn into my enemy.
To begin with, who was I betrayed by?
The only ones who knew about the kidnapping idea were me, Aisha,
Gisu... also Cliff and the Pope?
What about that girl in Cliff's house?
First of all, it absolutely wasn't Aisha.
If she wanted to betray me, she wouldn't need to do such a thing.
It would be something like [Oniichan, give me a piggyback ride!] and
then, while I was enjoying the feeling of her breasts on my back...
she'd slit my throat.
Or she could just mix some poison into my drink.
Cliff and Gisu are also unlikely.
They're in similar positions.
They wouldn't need to use such a roundabout way to get rid of me
when my back is exposed.
Then, is it the Pope?
Would the Pope try to kill me off with this timing?
What would he gain?
No, maybe it's the opposite.
Perhaps he simply wanted me to remove a few Temple Knights from
the board.
From the Pope's perspective, even though I gave him my support, I
never actually did anything to support him.
Perhaps this was his plan to put me to use.
And then, while I stall her escorts, the Pope has the perfect
opportunity to kidnap the Miko...
Wait wait.
Therese said that the information came from a credible source.
For her, would the Pope be a trustworthy source?
The Pope is her enemy.
Above anyone else, wouldn't he be an untrustworthy source?
In the first place, there's also the possibility that accusing me of
plotting to kidnap the Miko is just a coincidence.
Although there's a grain of truth, someone could have just made it
up.
Wait.
Rather than thinking this is an accident, I should consider Hitogami's
involvement.
Once again, it's possible that one of Hitogami's apostles is lurking
behind the scenes.
Yeah, compared to a betrayal, it seems likely that guy was involved.
What is Hitogami's intent?
I can't see the future, I have no idea.
Everything bad happens because of that guy.
"...."
I have no idea who the culprit is.
Thinking about it is useless.
I have more immediate problems.
The problem is determining who my enemies are.
Currently, I don't know what has happened to the Miko.
But the Temple Knights guarding her are already in this state...
From this, I can assume the Cardinal's faction will start moving
against me.
First of all, they tried to arrest me for attempting to kidnap the Miko.
From here on out, they'll probably go after Cliff who brought me
here, and Cliff's grandfather the Pope.
Ara?
I guess that means this wasn't the Pope's plan?
Uugh, it's troublesome to even come up with potential culprits.
What should I do...
What can I do...
I could gather everyone and escape from the capital?
No, what about Zenith?
I can't leave without Zenith.
I need to go to the Latreia house and rescue Zenith...
But, what if she isn't there?
If they're carrying out this kind of strategy, wouldn't they move Zenith
to another location?
Still, do I just keep fighting with these knights until Milis is destroyed?
That seems like something Hitogami would want.
Meh.
Still...
I could do it...
For the time being, I'll evacuate Aisha, Cliff, and Gisu.
Then I'll go to the Latreia house to rescue Zenith.
If that doesn't work, I can always go up to the palace and capture
one of the royal family to use in a hostage exchange.
That could also work.
It's all good.
I'm tired of thinking.
"... Ah."
Suddenly, a voice.
Someone looking out from the edge of the garden warped by my
quagmire...
In front of a door in the headquarters that could only be unlocked
with a special key, a lone girl stood.
Standing there, key in hand.
Alone.
"...."
It felt like she was looking into my eyes.
I tried to look away, but it was too late.
She had a look like she saw through me, and smiled.
Then opened her arms towards me.
I recognize that gesture...
It may have been intuition...
It was a split-second decision...
I kidnapped the Miko.
Notes
1. Best picture I could find, it's the back of some lego-like doll's head http://blog-
imgs-53.fc2.com/d/o/u/douzoukenkyu/CIMG0104_20121130030921.jpg
2. The guy who leads a funeral procession. Koruteji = Cortege(?) All of these
names seem to require a direct translation for Rudy's explanations to make
sense. Also they're pretty much pronounced the same as their English
translations.
3. 普通の質問に対してありえない嘘を言って、笑ったヤツの頭の上にタライが落ちてくる感
じで。 Bad TL, something about a tub falling on his head. ((Editor's note: I'm
not familiar with any implications as an idiom, but I suppose that would have
something to do with this slapstick trope that came up when I googled it?))
5. Saraku trees are a play on words, where 'ku' and 'ra' from Sakura trees
(which are described as looking identical) were switched.
Chapter 224 - Bullish
Negotiations
Part 1
If eating poison, finish up the plate. [1]
That's a saying.
If eating poison, don't forget to eat the plate.
That saying came about back when hard baked bread was used
instead of a dish.
The hard bread would absorb flavor from the main dish, like meat,
and then you could tear off pieces and dip it into soup to soften it up
before eating.
So eating the plate means eating everything.
Swallowing everything despite the fear of poison.
It's the spirit of a feast.
... No, that's a lie.
The truth is, since he'll die anyway, he might as well keep looking
forward and finish his meal, rather than die with an empty stomach.
I don't usually eat plates.
If the poison is going to kill me anyway, then there's no sense in
eating porcelain and ripping apart my mouth.
But that's also a lie.
Well...
I'm currently sitting in the property that Aisha prepared for the new
mercenary branch office.
It's in the commercial district, in the basement of an old tavern that
went out of business.
Barrels of preserved food were littered about, and there was a row
of half-finished black cloaks.
I used a teleport scroll to get here.
Bi-directional travel.
That's why I set up this magic formation.
And, there's a girl standing in front of me.
A usually cutesy girl with childish gestures.
But her actual age is over 20.
"Truly, this is a quaint office."
The Miko girl sat down.
I didn't do anything like tie her up.
She sat with a [plop] on the dusty stone floor.
In the end, that's what happened, I took the Miko with me.
"What is your intention?"
"Huh?"
"Coming out with such timing, you didn't even try to run away..."
Thinking about it, the Miko came out with perfect timing.
Her timing was so perfect, it was almost as if she was waiting to
make her appearance.
And then she was obediently caught.
"... I came out by chance. I didn't know there would be a fight... I
was surprised because the garden was suddenly covered by a fog."
That's an unexpectedly hasty decision.
"Are you lying?"
"Yes, it's a lie. I read the memories of my caretakers, and found out
that Therese was going to do something to you, so I came out."
"Ho~o... so you came to help me?"
"Yes. So, I went out, and once I saw your eyes, I realized it."
The moment she met with my eyes, she read my memories.
She was able to see right through the MK-I.
The abilities of Mikos really are mysterious things...
I don't even really understand the principle behind Zanoba's
superhuman strength.
"We are friends. I want to help."
"...."
I silently turned my fingertip towards the Miko.
That's the poison dish.
I've already kidnapped you, there's no going back.
There's no backup plan.
I have to make a move.
I have two cards here.
Myself, and this person.
That's it, I have to assume the worst case scenario.
The Pope, the Cardinal, Therese, and Claire are my enemies.
Cliff, Aisha, and Gisu are already in Hitogami's clutches.
Although only an hour has passed, the Temple Knights must have
mobilized.
Even though I didn't think anyone saw me teleport, I have to assume
that I was seen and that the Temple Knights will arrive here at any
moment.
Since there's no time to reset the MK-I's summoning setup, I already
used a bog to hide it underground.
That would be the worst case scenario.
Just thinking about it makes me feel helpless.
All I have on hand is my own power, and the Miko.
With these two cards, I have to overcome this situation.
"Miko, before I can trust you, please answer my questions."
"Of course."
I need to question the Miko.
She did say she wanted to help me.
But before I put my trust in her, I need information.
"Please describe your ability as a Miko."
"Don't you already know?"
"I would like to hear it again directly from you."
It may be different from Orsted's information.
I need to reconfirm it.
"I can see the surface of a person's memories."
"Surface?"
"Yes. I can see a little bit of what a person is thinking and the
memories associated with it."
"Isn't that the same as being able to read minds?"
"No, I can only see the past, the longer I look into someone's eyes
the farther back I can see..."
She can see a person's memories...
But she can only see memories related to a person's present
thoughts.
That kind of thing.
"Can you only look?"
"Yes, I can only look."
"It's not possible for you to return a person who lost their mind to
their original state?"
"I cannot. If I used my power in conjunction with healing magic, it
might be possible to come up with some kind of way..."
She can't restore Zenith's memories.
"... So you're not able to freely read your target's mind."
"Well, I can guess as much."
So she can only see memories related to what her target is thinking.
However, it's not like someone can just stop thinking in the middle of
a conversation.
If someone asks [What did you have for breakfast?] then that's
obviously going to be their next thought.
"Then as a guy with a shady background, I'd like to avoid making
eye contact with you."
She's basically a human lie detector.
She can condemn anyone she doesn't like.
All she needs to do is make eye contact.
Even if she were to tell a lie, nobody would know...
It wouldn't matter.
The Miko is that kind of existence.
I understood as much by watching Zanoba.
Someone like that is of incredible political importance.
"But Rudeus-sama never looked away before."
"Because I wasn't doing anything shady."
Before, I wouldn't avert my eyes from the Miko.
But I'm getting desperate.
If she can see my memories just by looking into my eyes, then it
would save time explaining everything.
"Oh? Is that okay? If you look into my eyes like that, I'll see
everything..."
"...."
"Huh, Orsted-sama has such a curse... I see, Hitogami... His first
advice... Ara?"
The Miko suddenly blushed.
What's wrong?
Did you see something erotic?
Well, if you were at my inquisition, you would have seen something
like that anyway.
You've probably seen stuff like Milis priests' affairs before.
"So, two people at the same time... being in love with two people...
Ah, an altar... eh? .... EH?"
At last, the Miko finally looked away.
She broke out into a cold sweat.
Her breathing was also rough.
She seems to have seen something she shouldn't have.
"What did you see?"
"Impure memories... And, a book, one that isn't allowed by the Milis
religion, and... a strange ritual..."
[2]
That's reassuring.
Hearing that gave me a confidence boost.
I can just take the hostage, and brazenly go out demanding
negotiations.
This one is Orsted's subordinate! What do I have to worry about by
being attacked!? [5]
The fact that the Miko hasn't already been ripped apart limb from
limb and tossed in front of the church is only because of THIS ONE's
generosity. [6]
Part 2
I returned to the religious headquarters.
It's been two, maybe three hours since that fight started.
I didn't see a single Temple Knight in town, like a charm.
At the same time I determined that Gisu and Cliff hadn't informed on
me.
We initially escaped using a teleport scroll.
The existence of that type of teleport magic is not generally known.
With that in mind, it would make sense for the Temple Knights to
blockade the entrances to the headquarters, thinking that I should
still be inside.
After about an hour, the field commander might judge that I could
have escaped the area.
In order to search the city, they would probably request the main
force of the Temple Knights, and take another hour organizing the
search corps.
It wouldn't be strange for some sort of delay to occur, so that adds
another hour...
Though the entrances to the city might already be blockaded, but
they shouldn't be moving in full scale yet.
Mobilizing such a large organization is always difficult.
Cliff and Gisu, only those two know about the teleportation magic.
Gisu was present when I installed the magic circle in case we
needed to make an emergency escape.
And Cliff even helped me draw the magic circles in the office's
basement back in Sharia.
If they had betrayed me, then the Temple Knights would have known
exactly where to start looking.
So I immediately discarded that suspicion.
But, it wouldn't be funny if the Pope or the Cardinal guessed that I'd
used teleport magic.
They might be able to obtain that kind of information.
Or Hitogami could be informing them from behind the scenes.
... When I think about that, I have a strange feeling.
It's been two hours, I feel like my opponents are falling behind...
Could Therese have been moving at her own discretion?
While thinking that, we approached the religious headquarters.
Then, guys wearing blue armor poured out in droves.
"Miko-sama has..."
"Rudeus has appeared with Miko-sama!"
"Call for support!"
Droves of knights were pouring out in a stream.
Not just from the headquarters, from the surrounding area too.
I was quickly surrounded.
Will it really be all right?
"Rudeus-sama, do not separate from me."
"...."
I grabbed onto the Miko's arm like it was my lifeline.
Although it's not like I'm holding a knife to her throat, some of the
Temple Knights started to stir.
But they didn't attack.
The Miko was right.
"Treating Miko-sama that violently...!"
"You, Rudeus... Even I have not touched the miko like that..."
"Taking Miko-sama hostage, you are a disgrace to all Milis believers!
Impermissible!"
One of those seems like a slightly strange thing to get angry about...
However they seem to have decided that I'm holding her hostage
before I even said anything.
Well, naturally.
I annihilated her escorts and whisked her away.
What else could it be.
Even the mastermind behind this whole incident would see it that
way.
"Captain, let's do it...! After fighting the [Defense of the Holy
Sepulcher (Anastasia Keep)] he can't have much mana left!"
"Wait, even so, he might still have enough strength left to harm Miko-
sama."
"It's okay, if we all attack in unison, even that guy would defend
himself instead of harming Miko-sama...!"
There's only one guy arguing.
I wonder, is he a direct pawn of the mastermind behind this
incident...
"Miko-sama, there, whose underling is that? Is he being manipulated
by Hitogami?"
"No, that is one of the Pope's underlings. Hitogami is uninvolved. He
doesn't even seem to know the details."
I asked her in a whisper, and she whispered back a response.
Well, without knowing any details, I can understand thinking that.
Alright.
For the time being, I should start.
"I demand to speak with his eminence the Pope! Clear a path!"
I shouted as loudly as I could.
The knights started to stir again hearing me act so arrogantly.
"What did you say!"
"You bastard, how dare you ask for an audience with the Pope!"
"Release Miko-sama now, and receive judgment!"
Several people had already drawn their swords.
But, when the Miko started trembling in my grasp, the knights
hesitated and returned their swords to their sheathes.
Ahh, wow, so that's the power of a Miko.
After watching those guys from the [Defense of the Holy Sepulcher
(Anastasia Keep)] I started to understand...
This girl is more like an idol than a princess.
Well then... let's start the script.
"My name is Rudeus Greyrat!
A representative of the Dragon God Orsted!
In the name of my lord, I do not intend to harm the Miko, the symbol
of the Milis religion!"
I raised my right hand.
The bracelet I got from Orsted shone brilliantly on my wrist.
It may be weak as an ID card, but it should at least work in a bluff.
"But, if you do not meet my demands, I will make no such guarantee!
By making enemies of me, know that you are turning the entire Milis
religion into an enemy of the Dragon God and his subordinates!"
I decided to open the negotiations aggressively.
I properly prepared my lines.
I used Orsted's name without permission, but it's no problem.
He doesn't really have any other subordinates, but it's no problem.
"...!"
The Temple Knights winced, and took a step back.
With that they should understand that I'm not some random
kidnapper, I'm a big wig in the organization.
As long as they understand that, I'm OK.
"I demand an explanation of my matter directly from his Holiness!
This is a demand directly from the Dragon God's representative!
I demand to know where my mother is being detained!
The fate of the Miko's life is dependent on the answer!"
I just want to talk in the end.
Suddenly, being accused of kidnapping, and then convicted in a farce
of a trial.
I'm angry.
I'll demand an apology and reparations.
I'll take that opportunity to make Zenith's matter the entire Milis
religious organization's problem.
"...."
"What...?"
"Taking Miko-sama hostage for such a reason is..."
However the Temple Knights didn't clear a path.
Slow.
Can you not let me through because there's no one important
enough here to make the decision?
If I wait a bit, will a commander come out?
"Open the way!"
"Move!"
"Do you intend to let Miko-sama die!?"
While I was thinking, the back suddenly became noisy, and a group
of four men and women appeared.
Among them, three looked familiar.
They were members of the [Defense of the Holy Sepulcher
(Anastasia Keep)].
Their armor looked like it had some painful dents in it.
Therese was with them.
When she saw me, she lowered her eyes apologetically.
Another person was with them, a man in what looked to be his late
fifties with a white beard.
Although he had deep wrinkles on his face, he had sharp eyes, his
age had not weakened him.
I don't recognize him.
He's wearing the same blue armor as everyone else, so he should
be a Temple Knight.
But, his armor's design is a little more elaborate.
It felt like it was an upgrade from Therese's armor.
Presently, I'm surrounded by normal Temple Knights.
Only a short distance away are the rest of the [Defense of the Holy
Sepulcher (Anastasia Keep)].
And Therese, the commander of the elite Temple Knights, is with
them.
This guy seems to be something like the king of the Temple Knights
then.
"Temple Knights, Sword Group [Battalion Commander] Carlyle
Latreia." [7]
... Ah.
This person... is Carlyle.
My grandfather...
"Despite our current situation... Nice to meet you, Rudeus Greyrat,
son of Zenith Greyrat."
I got my answer in an instant, as Carlyle focused in on me.
His gaze is sharper than Claire's.
Can a married couple really be that similar?
This might be troublesome...
"Is that right?"
".... No."
I thought upon his meaning for a moment, then shook my head after
remembering my interaction with Claire.
I am here as Orsted's subordinate.
I am Zenith's son as well... but I'm not here in that position.
If you don't insist on equal footing, then it's impossible to negotiate
on equal footing.
"I am the Dragon God Orsted's representative, Rudeus Greyrat. I
demand an audience with his Holiness."
"Hm."
I stuck out my chest, lifted my chin, and struck Eris's pose to
answer.
For a fraction of a second, it looked like Carlyle showed a gentle
smile.
However his expression immediately stiffened.
"Very well, I will guide you there."
While keeping a tough face, Carlyle turned heel.
Therese was making a difficult face, and followed Carlyle.
"... What about them, Miko-sama?"
".... Therese only followed the Cardinal's orders. Carlyle did not
make eye contact, so I do not know."
I consulted the Miko again in a whisper.
Convenient.
Carlyle is undetermined.
He doesn't feel like an enemy, but he gives off an odd feeling, I'll
keep my eye on him.
Disregarding the other Temple Knights, I followed after them.
Part 3
We were guided straight into the center.
I was in the middle, there were members of the [Defense of the Holy
Sepulcher (Anastasia Keep)] to my front, back, left, and right.
They aren't wearing their helmets anymore.
They're all firmly walking on two feet, they must have received
healing magic.
Although I remain on guard, it doesn't seem like they intend to attack
me.
I easily broke through the king class barrier they boasted about.
Then, crushed them head on.
But I didn't kill anyone, they should clearly understand that I was
holding back.
The difference in strength was obvious.
Moreover, I have the Miko.
They shouldn't be stupid enough to challenge an opponent they lost
to only a few hours ago and jeopardize the Miko.
I mean, these guys should be completely embarrassed.
Especially Mr. Dust.
He's been deliberately avoiding eye contact for awhile now.
But I don't sense any malice.
No hostility either.
He doesn't even seem that guarded towards me.
Rather, he's positioning himself as if he were protecting me.
"...."
We've been walking through the center for a few minutes.
Before I noticed it, I lost my sense of direction.
The passages almost felt circular, but we also went around a few 70
degree turns...
When I came here before, I thought these passages were tricky.
They're like a labyrinth.
"It's like a maze."
"Yes. In case of emergency, these halls were designed so people
like the Pope and I could easily escape."
The Miko answered.
The walls also seem to be covered in a kind of barrier.
For a moment, it was almost quiet enough that you could fall asleep.
[8]
"Yes!"
"Miko-sama knows all these passageways!"
"We used to run through here playing tag!"
Then all at once, her lackeys started boasting.
So, it really was designed to let important people escape.
However, I can't help but feel lost.
There's no way I could find my way out of here...
I'd probably have to blow a hole through the ceiling.
The walls... since they're covered in a barrier, I wonder if the magic
absorbing stone would work?
Yeah.
I may have come in here nonchalantly, but I'll be OK.
"We're still not there? I'll be troubled if we have to go much further."
"Only a little further."
Carlyle responded without looking back.
Really?
This doesn't feel like a trap.
I'll be cautious, I'm keeping an eye on the guys behind me as well.
Then, suddenly, those guys start shouting.
"Carlyle! Don't be impolite! At the very least look at him when you
speak!"
"Rudeus is holding Miko-sama's arm!"
"What if he becomes angry and harms Miko-sama!"
"Please look, look at the dents in this armor! Only someone with
superhuman strength could do this to the Temple Knights' armor!"
"Even if he becomes a little displease, if Miko-sama is bruised..."
"Everyone be quiet!"
Therese had to scold them to shut them up.
At the same time, Carlyle paused and faced me.
"It is only a little further."
"... Very well."
I nodded again, and resumed following him.
It couldn't have been more than ten steps later...
Carlyle stopped in front of a door and knocked.
"We have brought Rudeus Greyrat."
It really was just a little more.
Sorry, I didn't mean to rush you.
Come to think of it, even though I completely lost my sense of
direction, we only made two turns.
I might be able to find my way back.
"Please, enter."
I heard the Pope's voice from within the room.
Carlyle murmured a light prayer towards the door, and then opened
it.
While holding the door open, he motioned to invite me inside.
"Please enter."
"Yes, excuse me."
I entered the room holding the Miko's arm.
Well, I kind of feel like I should have let go of her arm by now...
No, no.
I can't relax my guard.
"...."
I entered something like a conference room.
There was a long table, with ten or so seats arranged so you could
sit face to face.
The Pope was there, Cliff too.
There was another person who looked similar to the Pope, wearing
an expensive looking vestment. I wonder if that's the Cardinal?
Aside from Carlyle, there was another guy wearing an expensive
looking set of armor.
White armor. [9]
Notes
3. 二人一緒にやった時の事を見られたってことは、俺が言ったあのセリフも聞かれたかもしれ
ない。 Bad TL
4. Could someone check to make sure these names are consistent with
previous chapters? I couldn't find anything. ((Editor note: They're first named
in ch 49.5. Not sure if there's a difference in the Japanese between use of
"Temple Knights" and "Knights of the Order of the Temple", but otherwise the
names have been consistent.))
5. Rudy uses oresama here, that royal "I" that Zanoba always uses. This is
clearly meant to be Rudy going on a power trip, I've fudged it a bit so it gets
through in English.
9. This is either a line describing the guy's armor in the previous line, or a
second Knight. Needs fact checking with chapter 225. ((In any case, Church
armor is white, Temple is blue, Instruction is silver.))
Chapter 225 - What am I
Wavering Over?
Part 1
When seeing Zenith and Claire, I don't think I let my trembling show. [1]
"Since there are many here who I am meeting for the first time, I
would like to start with self-introductions. I am Rudeus Greyrat,
representative of [Dragon God] Orsted-sama and have given up on
forming a friendship with the Church of Milis."
However, there are none who are unfamiliar with the term [Dragon
God].
That is a title that is just as well known as [Demon God].
"Presently, for certain reasons I have taken the miko-sama's life into
my hands."
"It is extremely regretful that the situation has come to this. I didn't
think that I would have to take a prisoner and sully the name of the
overwhelming super-being Orsted. However this is for my own
protection, and the safety of those under me, and a necessary
measure for the following negotiations, so I hope you understand."
"Overwhelming, super...?"
"Ahem."
"Now then, as for why I had to aim for the miko's life and disgrace
my master..."
"..."
The one who answered is the one who is sitting directly across from
me.
The man who is sitting the furthest from the door.
With Cliff by his side, the most important man present.
The Pope, Harry Grimoire.
If I'm not mistaken, his job is to assist the Pope... so it's kind of like
a King and his Prime Minister.
Of course, the Pope and Cardinal seem a little different from the
religious organizations I'm familiar with, so it may be something else.
But this Pope and Cardinal are certainly fighting.
They're aiming to be the next Pope.
Although I don't know if they do anything like an election every few
years or something...
"...Sir Belmondo."
At Cliff's call, the man in white armor sitting next to Leblanc stood
up.
A one-eyed man with scars on his face.
He looks around 40 years old.
Since he's wearing white armor, he's probably in the Order of the
Church.
But his facial expression can only be described as grim.
If I remember correctly, the Order of the Church are the chief knights
protecting the country.
He's probably angry at me for causing a disturbance in town.
I see.
Even though the father is in the Order of Instruction, the son doesn't
always enter the same Order.
Nonetheless, it's not like he's an incompetent son, his position of
Lieutenant Commander is proof of that.
"...Claire-dono."
Claire's name was called.
I wonder why she's among these dignitaries.
She may have been called as a suspect.
Or maybe she was the one who spread the rumor of me planning to
kidnap the miko.
Why did she bring Zenith?
There are many things I want to know right away, but I get the
feeling that an explanation is coming.
I'll be patient for now.
Claire said that with a prim face and took her seat.
For now, this is everyone.
The knights acting as guards didn't introduce themselves, but I guess
this means they have no right to participate in the discussion.
Part 2
"Well then, Rudeus-sama, first I would like to make the context
clear, is that fine?"
"I don't mind. I also want to know what has happened."
Since the Pope worded it like that, they probably only became
aware of the circumstances a moment ago.
It's been a few hours since the disturbance.
To gather up the cardinal and the top members of each knight order,
the circumstance seems a little too good.
However, although I say 'top', the leaders of the orders are not
present.
The people gathered here are probably all the members that could
quickly come after the miko's kidnapping.
"Well then, where should we start... at any rate, I've also only just
heard the circumstances. I still haven't been able to put it all in
order."
After the Pope said that while scratching his brow, one man raised
his hand.
Belmondo.
It's Besh-san. [6]
Even if that's not the case, I had that conversation on the roadside.
It wouldn't be strange for someone to overhear it.
It wouldn't be unlikely for that to have reached the ears of the
Latreia house.
The walls have ears, honest Mary. [7]
"Now then, as for the Latreia house... before we hear Sir Carlyle's
story... let's hear from Rudeus-sama. Is that alright with you?"
"..."
"Certainly, I did propose kidnapping the miko, but that was purely
because of the blood rushing to my head. I didn't mention it again
after that, and didn't put it into practice."
"Then why did you draw close to the miko?"
"In order to resolve the issue with the Latreia house, I was
consulting with my aunt Therese. I suppose that looked like drawing
close to the miko."
"I see. However, if that is the case then why did you actually kidnap
the miko?"
"I said it earlier, but it was only to ensure my own safety and protect
the people important to me. Naturally, I got Miko-sama's permission
as well."
"Is that true?"
"Yes. When I looked into his eyes, I could see that Rudeus-sama
has done nothing to feel guilty over."
The miko said that and scanned the surroundings, and the pope and
cardinal casually averted their eyes.
It must be difficult for people who have done nothing but things to
feel guilty for.
"However, if that's the case, why annihilate the guards? Couldn't you
have persuaded them with words?"
"I was suddenly trapped in a barrier, given a farce of a trial that I
had no right to speak in, and was told both arms would be cut off.
There was no reason not to resist."
Nope, impossible.
I had no way of knowing that the miko was about to come out, and if
I remember the atmosphere back then, I don't get the feeling that it
would have been possible to persuade them by talking it over.
It was a trial with a predetermined result.
In my previous world as well, I've been bullied that way before.
"In the first place, what kind of issue was it that you had with the
Latreia house?"
"Then, Sir Carlyle, Madam Claire. From those words, the fault for
this case seems to lie with you. Let us hear your views."
"My wife did that of her own accord, I had no knowledge of it."
No, if Claire normally acts that way and Carlyle's irritation grew day
by day, isn't it natural to cast her aside in this situation?
If it was me, no matter how many problems Eris causes with her
violence, I wouldn't cast her aside or abandon her.
I can't say with confidence that after a long married life I won't come
to dislike the parts of her that are disagreeable.
However, I would definitely never cast her aside or abandon her.
"Then, the perpetrator of this incident was Madam Claire. Sir Carlyle
will share responsibility. I would like to end this with Madam Claire
receiving punishment and Sir Carlyle taking responsibility. Are there
any objections?"
"... No objections!"
"No objections!"
Well, I'd get in a bad mood if she gave some poor excuse, so it's
fine.
As for me, as long as Zenith is returned, it's fine.
I'll never approach the Latreia house again. I won't let Zenith, Norn,
or Aisha approach it ever again.
That's the end of that.
"Is that okay with you, Rudeus-sama? This incident was caused
against our intents. We had no intention of harming Rudeus-sama, or
making enemies of Orsted-sama, and would like to maintain an
amicable relationship."
Most likely, the ones who leaked the matter of the miko's kidnapping
was the pope's underlings.
Using the Latreia house's name, he manipulated the cardinal's
faction into suspecting me of attempting to murder the miko.
Or possibly there are spies from the pope's faction in the Latreia
house, and used the fact that I was in fact heard by their servants, it
doesn't matter either way.
10 years...
It's by no means short.
10 years ago I had just separated from Eris.
So, it's not short at all.
"..."
"Since you seem to have no objections, by this informal trial with the
presence of at least three bishops and at least three Battalion
Commanders, Countess Claire Latreia is hereby sentenced to 10
years in prison for the crime of treason. Sir Carlyle's sentence will
be decided later in a formal trial."
"No objections."
"No objections."
"..."
"Hn!"
backwards.
Belmond immediately lowered his stance, and prepared to draw his
sword.
"...!"
"..."
"Please wait!"
"Forcing an old woman against the wall and making her into a
sacrifice like this will not be forgiven by Milis-sama!"
"A mere priest dares to object to an official Church decision and
proclaim himself as a spokesman for Milis-sama!?"
"Doing things like this, are you satisfied? Doing something unlike
yourself like taking the miko hostage and trapping your own
grandmother, throwing her into jail, are you satisfied with that!?"
"..."
Hearing that, I fell silent.
Cliff's way of speaking is strange.
I didn't intend to take the miko hostage.
The one who sentenced Claire to prison wasn't me.
In the first place, it's undeniable that Claire was in the wrong.
Isn't it natural to be punished?
It's not something that should be overturned with those emotional
words.
"Certainly you may have been quarreling with her, but don't you
always reach a solution considerate of the others' feelings when
disputing with your family? I heard it from Norn-kun. Even though she
was so cruel to you, you came to help her when she was down,
without letting the past get between you. This time as well, you put
in so much effort to conclude things peacefully. You consulted with
grandfather and Sir Therese, and were about to reach a peaceful
solution. Is it really okay like this?"
"..."
"Answer me! Rudeus Greyrat! Is this okay with you or not!?
Depending on your answer, you may receive my scorn!"
For some reason that resounds in my heart.
Something that pierces through me.
Why is that?
"..."
"..."
That's why.
Just do it.
Stop fooling around.
Just apologize...
"You don't need to force yourself. I don't expect to receive your help.
If doing something for my daughter is deserving of punishment, then
I shall accept it gratefully."
"...!"
[9]
The miko wasn't wearing her usual naïve face, but was
expressionless.
She was expressionless, but I could see something behind that
expression.
She was giving off the atmosphere of a saint.
About me.
If that's the case, then why did this happen?
How did it turn out like this?
I don't get it.
Someone explain this to me.
Right.
Her power as a miko.
By looking into someone's eyes, she can see their memories.
In other words, Claire had a reason for doing this.
I don't know what that reason could possibly be, though.
A standoffish attitude.
That's it.
Cliff, Miko-sama.
No matter how much you try to cover for her, even I can't give in to
that.
As I said that with a sigh, Claire once again nodded with a prim face.
Cliff looked at me with a painful face, and the miko put on a
sorrowful expression.
Therese gave Claire a glance, Belmondo began to move, Zenith---
"..."
"...!"
When I turned around, there was the handcuffed Carlyle, who was
watching over the course of events before leaving the room.
Since he was behind me, I never saw his facial expression until now.
However, on his face was a complicated expression mixing worry,
impatience, and regret.
From Claire's mouth, a wail that was neither a cry nor a groan
escaped.
"Ah"
"I beg your pardon. We will explain everything now. May I ask for the
verdict to be postponed until afterwards?"
At Carlyle's words, the room that was frozen in time began to move
once more.
I think his words were directed to everyone present.
However, the pope, the cardinal, Cliff, Belmondo, Therese, and the
members of Anastasia Keep, were all looking towards me.
"... I understand."
Notes
2. Anpanman
3. In Engrish. ナンバーツー
5. I think this is what he said, considering what happened near the end of last
chapter.
6. GAlgard naSH -> Gash -> Gouache. BElmondo naSH -> Besh.
7. Okay, this one was weird. I googled it and got a few questionable results, but
the most reliable looking one said that 'honest Mary' refers to the Virgin Mary,
so it's saying that you could be overheard by someone who will likely pass it
on, or something.
8. I'm assuming that's what ガシャリ means, but all my attempts to look it up
turned out fruitless. If someone knows what it is, please tell me.
9. Ugh, there was a sound in there with no English equivalent that pretty much
implied him snapping.
10. This was all in past tense, but I couldn't think of a way to do that in English
without sounding weird.
Chapter 226: For the House, For
my Daughter
Part 1
From birth, Claire Latreia had a vain and stubborn personality.
She was a child who didn't acknowledge her own mistakes, and
refused to apologize.
In the eyes of others, she succeeds in most things without trying, yet
compels others to show the same results as her, and rebukes them
for complaining.
If you pointed out her mistakes, she would never apologize.
A cold person who doesn't care for the hardships of others, and
doesn't try to understand their feelings.
Of course, there were those who could see through to her true
nature.
People who recognized the efforts she put in behind the scenes.
At that time, the one who butted into the conversation was Carlyle,
who carried Claire's father home.
"There's a reason the captain was drinking today. One of our knights
fell in battle. It wasn't anyone's fault. However, we were drinking in
mourning. The captain was drinking heavily, but that was out of
regret for the one who perished. Even if you are the captain's
daughter, I won't permit you to slight his feelings."
Part 3
The two of them had 5 children altogether, one boy and four girls.
Claire had the most expectations for the second daughter, who was
born slightly late.
She was superior, even compared to her two older siblings.
No matter how you looked at her, she was beautiful and pure, a
specimen one could be proud of.
Zenith Latreia.
She ran away from home.
Betraying Claire's expectations, she fled from home to become an
adventurer, and cut off all contact.
At this time, Claire didn't think she had misspoken, not even with a
single particle of her being.
Neither Zenith or Therese will last for long.
She was certain they would return to her, begging and in tears.
Part 4
Ten years passed.
Zenith still hadn't gotten in touch.
Before anyone noticed, Therese experienced exceptional success
and became the captain of the miko's guard.
Part 5
A few years later, Paul came to the Latreia house seeking
assistance.
There was a magical disaster in the Asura Kingdom.
A teleportation incident affecting the Fedoa region.
Paul came as the captain of the missing people's search squad, and
requested assistance from the Latreia house.
When Zenith was revealed as one of the missing people, Claire
naturally gave her approval.
Arguing down Carlyle, she produced both money and personnel.
She wanted to find Zenith quickly, and tell her "You see? This
happened because you disobeyed me!"
Claire thought that before Zenith, she should do something for her
granddaughter, Norn.
She considered sheltering Norn in the household, and tearing her
apart from her father.
And then, providing her with proper education to make her into a fine
lady.
Claire believed that would be for the best.
Of course, Carlyle opposed, thus she couldn't forcibly separate Norn
from Paul.
Claire impatiently passed the days while watching over Norn.
In the end, both Norn and Aisha left her without becoming what she
wanted them to.
Part 6
A few more years passed.
No news of Zenith's discovery arrived, and Claire remembered the
days with her grandchildren.
Almost immediately after they were born, when they were still only
one or two years old, the teleportation incident happened. [5]
Part 7
A few more years went by.
During that time, Claire searched for methods to cure Zenith.
She spoke with doctors and healing magicians throughout Milis, and
visited the library of the Church of Milis a countless number of times.
She even researched in the books left behind by the Demon Races.
Normally such a thing would not be forgiven, but she believed that
looking through the whole, long history of the country, precedents
could be found.
Just as she was done convincing herself, Rudeus came with Zenith.
Zenith came with her son Rudeus and the mistress's daughter,
Aisha.
Only the three of them.
It was only 3 years after sending the letter.
Claire wasn't used to sending letters over long distances, but she
knew that Rudeus hurried over.
"First, I'll greet him with words of gratitude.
Then, I'll confirm the progress of her current treatments and the
plans from here on out.
If there's time, then we'll talk about Norn and Aisha's current
circumstances."
As soon as she saw Zenith, all those thoughts were blown away.
The minute that Claire entered the room, saw Zenith's face, and
drawing close, saw her vacant gaze, she was overcome with
emotions so strong that it felt as if her heart was being torn apart,
and entrusted Zenith to the family doctor, Andel, with a sigh. [6]
The Rudeus who she met for the first time was a youth who closely
resembled Paul.
Whether she wanted to or not, his face brought Paul's to her mind.
That drunkard Paul, who didn't even have a fragment of character.
That Paul.
If it weren't for him, Zenith may not have fallen into this state.
In Claire's mind, those emotions welled up.
Claire could perceive that the man in front of her is probably even
more important than she is aware of.
From what she's heard, he's friends with a priest from the Pope's
faction.
At the same time, she's also heard rumors of the Pope's grandson
returning to Milishion.
Since it's such a long trip, it wouldn't be strange at all for them to
come together.
That treatment method will become a ball and chain for him.
Trying out that remedy on his own mother will undoubtedly become a
scandal.
Everyone in this country will be talking about him behind his back.
He won't be able to keep on living in this country.
She intentionally angered Rudeus, and drove him from the Latreia
house.
Using her servants, she kidnapped Zenith.
She worried.
She suffered.
She spent the entire day in the room with Zenith, at wit's end.
This Zenith, which kept wasting away day after day, would
occasionally show a human-like response, further hurting Claire's
heart. [7]
Carlyle put forth a petition to get the miko to look at her memories.
Using his authority as a Large Leader of the Order of the Temple to
its full potential, he got his petition approved while hiding Zenith's
name and avoiding Rudeus's notice.
Plans were made to have the miko, who normally doesn't look at
memories on personal reasons, check on Zenith.
That was for today.
Today was the day that Carlyle and Claire were to secretly bring
Zenith to the Church's headquarters.
Part 8
Rudeus's Perspective
That case.
It's probably Elinalise.
Of course, it differs from the truth.
From a similar state to Zenith's, it took her decades to regain her
sanity.
She didn't become a bitch until later. [8]
"I haven't tried it, but I have spoken to that woman in person, and
heard it from her."
Claire dropped her shoulders as if all her strength had left her.
However, her expression does look slightly relieved.
"Then, everything I was doing was meaningless..."
"That seems to be the case."
"... Is that so..."
If she had told me about the treatment method on the first day, I
wouldn't have exploded like that.
"No, no, grandma, I've met that woman and it's completely different
from the story.
That kind of thing won't cure her."
I would have laughed it off like that.
Yup. Probably.
"..."
I couldn't answer.
I can't say no.
If Elinalise said, "I was cured by having sex," would I have tried it?
I probably wouldn't have tried it at first, and searched for another
method.
However, several years have passed since then.
If no other methods came up, I wonder what I would have done.
After worrying, I wonder what kind of conclusion I would have come
to.
"However, you already knew... How foolish I've been..."
I feel refreshed.
I can finally understand her actions until now.
For her daughter, for the house.
There were no falsehoods in Claire's words.
"Haaa..."
"Rudeus, you have the right to decide. You have been the most hurt
by this, and won your battle."
I have conditions.
Conditions for me releasing the miko.
It may be shameless, but three of them.
I was talking to the cardinal, but the one who answered was the
miko.
As if to say she already understood.
"Second, in exchange for this case being water under the bridge,
you must provide your full assistance to [Dragon God] Orsted."
"Naturally, I have no objections."
"............ Same here."
The pope naturally gave his approval, and the cardinal nodded as
well.
It looks like getting approval for the Ruijerd dolls will also be
possible.
It may have been better if I struck the cardinal just now, but it seems
like things will settle in an overall beneficial way to me, so I'll let it go
at that.
Notes
1. The word used for 'upright' here could also mean correct, right, or perfect.
4. Not the crime bigamy, but the state of having two wives.
5. Yes, I know they were four, and I'm pretty sure the author knows they were
four, but Claire doesn't.
6. ??? クレアは部屋にはいるや否や、ゼニスの顔を見て、近づき、近づき切れず、定まらな
い視線を見て、心を掻きむしられるような気持ちになって、ため息をつくように、かかりつけ
の医者アンデルに託した。
7. Unsure, 何をするでもなく呆けていたゼニスは、たまに、人間らしい反応をしてみせて、ク
レアはさらに悩んだ
10. I'm pretty much just guessing here, feel free to change it if you know what it
means. だから、公の場で答えを口にする事は無く、俺を諭そうとしたのだ。
Chapter 227 - Results of
Obligation
Part 1
Afterwards, a contract was written.
Let's take a moment to summarize it.
The full picture.
The Miko was safe thanks to Rudeus.
The Milis religious community was held responsible for the incident.
The church shouldered the responsibility, and proclaimed that they
would fully cooperate with Dragon God Orsted and Rudeus Greyrat,
and, moreover, support them.
There was no formal decision regarding the treatment of the demon
race, that was left as a legal question to be settled at a later time.
It was that kind of thing.
The two principal offenders, the Pope and the Cardinal, naturally
signed the contract.
The cold sweat running down the Cardinal's forehead was really
cute.
The Miko was returned in exchange for the contract.
As for the parties responsible, it was decided that a trial would be
held at a later date in order to have them take full responsibility for
this incident.
I don't know how that will turn out, the Cardinal might flee before
receiving his sentence.
Well, tracking people down is part of my job description.
If they're not one of Hitogami's lackeys, then they're just a minor
nuisance.
Even if the Cardinal was taken out of the picture, the Expulsion
Faction wouldn't disappear.
For the time being, everything has worked out.
The incident has been resolved.
Part 2
Afterwards, Zenith, Cliff, and I returned to the house.
On the way back, Cliff sighed and apologized.
"Sorry."
I looked back at him, puzzled.
"What's this, suddenly?"
"If you think about it, this kidnapping incident originated from my
careless remarks.
Even though we reached a good resolution,
Taking credit for that would just be self-important lip service, I felt
like I was just blundering about."
"I suppose."
It wasn't really like that though.
You acted following your beliefs, argued without reserve, and led us
to that good resolution.
It's the usual Cliff-senpai.
"I'm not worried about it, we can reflect on this matter and make use
of it next time."
"Ah, yes."
Cliff shrugged... Normally, in Cliff's position, someone would be more
worried about their own situation.
Wendy was waiting for us when we arrived home.
Only Wendy.
"Ah, welcome back."
I suddenly started to worry about Aisha and Gisu, they're safe right?
While we were drawing up the contract, I asked the Cardinal and the
Temple Knights but they just responded with [We don't know.]
Are they busy preparing some sort of trump card, or...
"Aisha-san, Gisu-san, it's safe!"
My worries were groundless.
Two people came out from under the floor.
"Phew, welcome home, Oniichan... and Zenith-okaasan."
The two of them let out a sigh of relief.
Hearing their circumstances,
Apparently Claire and Carlyle left for the religious headquarters early
this morning, and after learning that, they immediately set out to
inform me.
But, it was already too late.
By the time they arrived at the headquarters, the Temple Knights had
already begun to move.
I had already moved to make contact with Therese, and Claire was
already inside the headquarters.
With all these pieces moving, they knew something must have
happened.
Thinking that, they remembered my instructions, and returned to
Cliff's house.
They planned to wait until night, and then make their escape from
the town.
"The Temple Knights came looking here several times, and I properly
turned them away!"
Wendy seems to have done her job correctly this time.
However, the Cardinal was targeting Aisha and Gisu as I suspected.
Dangerous.
"Oniichan, since Okaasan has come home, that means...?"
"Ah, yes, it's over."
I explained the details to Aisha and Gisu.
After I'd finished explaining, Aisha's eyes were twinkling, and she
started talking in a voice of admiration.
"Something like that, Oniichan, you're a hero!
Even with your back up against a wall,
You wrapped everything up in just a day!"
Saying something so absurd...
What kind of unsightly hero would I make.
Part 3
The next day.
I took Zenith to the religious headquarters for the Miko to give her a
neurological exam.
Two people, Carlyle and Claire, came to pick us up at Cliff's house in
a horse-drawn carriage.
While we were riding in the carriage, I was chatting with Carlyle.
He seems to deeply regret what had happened, and apologized
profusely.
I don't intend to keep blaming him for that.
Even if he was a little at fault...
People make mistakes.
What's important is to reflect on it, learn from it, and move on.
Around here, it would be embarrassing for me to talk about the
proper way to deal with one's problems; I'm hardly in a position to
be whining about the failures of others.
You can't keep moving forward without overcoming failures.
He shouldn't be beholden to me to move on.
Although Carlyle was talkative, Claire hadn't spoken a word.
Out of the five people riding in the carriage, only she was silent.
I wonder what she's thinking about.
Should I ask her?
While I was procrastinating, we arrived at the headquarters.
I went through the normal formalities, and was granted an audience
in the center of the headquarters.
We were brought to a room, this is probably the room the Miko
normally uses.
Just like when I met with the Pope, it was a room divided by a
transparent barrier with two chairs and a window.
It was a little dim, six escorts stood guard.
Therese wasn't among them.
I wonder if she was replaced...
Anyway, it looks like the escorts are going to stay for the
examination.
Well, I shouldn't need to be particularly cautious of them this time.
All of them had embarrassed expressions and avoided looking in my
direction.
I don't need an apology.
You guys were just doing your jobs.
And I was just doing my job when I knocked you guys out, so we're
even.
We were both just doing our jobs, so it's all good. [1]
Lara really took a liking to me. From the moment she was born, she
was able to talk. She would always call out to me.
[Obaachan, Obaachan!]... Then Leo would call out to me [It's
serious! It's serious! Lara-sama has wet herself!]
These days, she enjoys sitting in my lap with Leo and basking in the
sun. We would talk about things like my home town, or where her
Papa grew up.
Arus loves breasts. He seems like Rudy when he was younger.
When I hold him, he really likes clinging to my chest.
I guess he's fine even with grandma's breasts.
It looks like he inherited something bad from Paul and Rudy.
Like Rudy, I'm worried that he might make a lot of good girls cry, but
you'll make them happy in the end, right?"
Before I'd noticed, my eyes were starting to get hot.
Tears were falling like raindrops.
Lucy isn't really around Zenith much, and Lara doesn't speak.
More than half seems to be Zenith's own delusions.
Looking out through those vacant eyes...
At least the world Zenith sees is affectionate.
"Oh that's right, and speaking of Rudy, that child became the
subordinate of an amazing person.
Dragon God Orsted.
A distant disciple of the Dragon God Urupen, one of the [Three
Heroes who Vanquished the Demon God]. [4]
Part 4
"Rudeus-sama."
Afterwards, while we were waiting in the carriage, Claire spoke.
She no longer wore that cold, stubborn expression.
This must be her nervous face.
"Although this may not be an appropriate place to hold such a
conversation, when I calmed down, I realized we would likely be too
busy to speak after this, so let's talk now. Will that be all right?"
I nodded in silence.
Did she find out... Is she angry that I have three wives?
Even if it's all right with two people, three people might be...
It's not something that would be permitted in the Milis religion.
"It's about what I did."
"Okay."
It was different.
It seems to be something about herself.
Yeah.
She's not trying to denounce me, or blame me.
No, she might still be difficult.
Without changing her expression, she started speaking.
"What I was attempting to do... was not something permissible as a
human being."
"Yeah..."
Even if it was to help Zenith, that was going to far.
After all this, I don't want to have a carefree chat about it in a place
like this.
"So, please give me penance."
"Penance...?"
"Yes, penance. I took Zenith away from you, and tried to do
something awful, such a crime requires a suitable punishment."
"I think your apology was enough?"
"Such a thing is not enough. The punishment must fit the crime."
I can understand that.
If everything could be settled with an apology, the police would be
unnecessary.
In an incident like this, the perpetrator would normally receive severe
corporal punishment.
But, I don't blame Claire.
Even though Claire might not be satisfied with that.
"... What kind of punishment would be fitting?"
"To be whipped, or to have both arms cut off... Even death would not
be an unfitting punishment."
Err...
That seems like overkill.
"After listening to Zenith's story, how could I act so selfishly? Even
considering doing something like that to my own daughter, I deserve
to burn in hell. Such a stupid person only deserves the hammer of
judgment."
Her fist was trembling.
Were we listening to the same story?
I never heard such a thing.
I heard something else.
Zenith forgave her.
I didn't understand it at the time.
But, she could sense Claire's anguish.
Now I properly understood.
Claire, at that trial, without a single ally, when you were trying to
bear the brunt of the blame yourself, you were forgiven.
That's why Zenith slapped Carlyle and I, but didn't slap Claire.
Although I thought something like that was too far-fetched at the
time...
It wasn't.
Well, Claire still needs a reasonable punishment.
Claire herself, rather than forgiveness, wants a punishment.
Until she receives one, she won't budge an inch.
Hmm.
I mean, I wonder what I should do with someone so stubborn.
Alright.
"I understand... well then..."
"...."
Claire looked tense.
I'm bad, let's go in a selfish direction.
"Please convert."
"You mean, to your religion? A faith of the demon race?"
That's not it.
I didn't mean a religious conversion.
I'd be too embarrassed if you converted to Roxyism.
In this case, what should I say?
Well, the phrasing isn't worth worrying about.
"No, I don't mean stop being a Milis believer. I'd just be thankful if
you left the Demon Race Expulsion faction."
"You mean, the Latreia house as a whole?"
"Only Claire-san is fine. My wife is actually a demon race, so
describing them as [filthy] is no good. And I'd like you to accept the
differences in our beliefs and education policies."
"...."
"Ah, and next time, if something happens please consult me. I should
be able to find a solution... I think."
Claire watched me with a blank look of amazement.
Then nodded immediately.
"Yes, of course."
Claire didn't look like she needed anymore convincing.
Does she understand that's the punishment?
I can't tell.
But, she seems to have given it some thought, and nodded again.
"Henceforth, Claire Latreia is of the Demon Race Acceptance
faction, and will act as such. I will trust you, and won't interfere in
your religion or educational policies."
"Thank you in advance... But, don't overdo it. Forcing yourself too
much is bad."
"... Of course."
For the time being, if this Baachan becomes a little more lenient, she
shouldn't cause any trouble with my wives and daughters.
Right now she seems fine, but she might just be restraining herself.
The next time we meet... Well, if we quarrel, then I apologize in
advance.
"Then it's settled."
"... For your kindness, thank you."
Claire was silent at first, but nodded with a serious face.
That's an awkward way to apologize.
Part 5
After that, I returned to Cliff's house.
I've arranged to stop by the Latreia house some other time, my first
priority is Gisu.
There's a lot I need to hear.
Regarding this matter, and others.
Thinking back, that guy's timing was always too good.
It's about time I heard everything in detail.
"Well then, I'm going to go look for Gisu."
I left Aisha and Zenith in the house.
Then immediately left to find Gisu.
"Oniichan, wait for a moment!"
I was stopped by Aisha.
She sounded urgent, and held something out to me in her hand.
"This!"
In her hand, she was holding a letter.
A letter with a wax seal.
On the front was written [To Rudeus].
"As soon as Oniichan departed, Gisu-san came and left this letter
with Wendy!"
I silently received it.
Leaving it with that timing...
I have a bad feeling.
I tore off the seal and immediately began reading its contents.
"To Rudeus. [6]
Yo, Senpai.
After returning from listening to the Miko, now that you're reading
this letter, you've probably figured it out.
Did you figure it out?
Hey, you figured it out, right?
If you still haven't figured it out, then this letter is my mistake... Oh
well.
Now, Senpai probably has doubts.
About how I found Zenith's location.
About why I took Zenith out at such a convenient time.
About way back when I first met with Senpai.
About how I coincidentally met Senpai in the Dorudia tribe's village.
You're probably wondering about that.
However, that much could only be expected from the S-class
adventurer Gisu-sama.
Let me explain.
Everything, all of it, was on Hitogami-sama's instructions.
Hitogami-sama gives me advice, and I follow it.
In short, I guess that makes me one of [Hitogami's Apostles].
So I deceived Senpai.
Are you surprised?
After all this, what do you think?
Or, are you mad?
You're probably mad.
Ha, that's natural.
But, ever since I was a child, I've only been able to survive thanks to
God-sama's advice.
When I was half-dead, whenever I was in a pinch, I would be saved
if I could just hear His voice.
For someone like me, who doesn't have the power to fight, that
voice was salvation.
It was like that for Senpai too, right?
You were able to return from the Demon Continent because of
Hitogami-sama's help.
You were able to meet Ruijerd-danna, obtain a demon eye,
Have me sent to get you out of jail, and rescue your younger sister.
Hitogami-sama even helped find Zenith.
After all that, Senpai.
You betrayed Hitogami-sama.
Why would you do something like that?
Hitogami-sama is a good God.
He gives us advice for our own sake.
Senpai brought God's wrath down upon himself.
Senpai betrayed God. [7]
I'll gather more war potential for next time, face you magnificently
from the front, and make a declaration of war.
Then take your head.
I resent you Senpai.
We had fun in jail, and I won't forget traveling together on the Holy
Sword Highway.
Exploring the labyrinth as well, I hadn't been that excited in a long
time.
That's just an indiscretion.
That's all.
There are grudges and there are debts.
Even if I resent Hitogami-sama, I'm still in His debt.
Even if there's a grudge, I return favors.
It's my jinx.
From Gisu Nukadia]
I immediately rushed out of the house.
"Gisu!"
Gisu was an enemy the entire time.
He even saw me fight using the MK-I.
He said he's gathering war potential.
That guy, what does he mean?
He said that the next time will come from the front.
Believing that is difficult.
I don't know.
If that's true, I have to stop him.
No, not stop him, I have to kill Gisu.
First of all, I have to go to the commercial district.
I leapt over to the mercenary branch office.
I immediately sent Orsted a summary of the letter, Gisu is
Hitogami's Apostle.
Then, without waiting for a reply, went to chase after Gisu.
But I have no idea where to start looking.
I won't even be fucking efficient searching alone.
Thinking so, I leapt to the religious headquarters, and put Gisu on
the wanted list.
Furthermore, I asked to mobilize the Temple Knights to search
Milishion and its periphery.
That bastard is an Apostle of Hitogami.
Gisu knows the future.
He's a man who became an S-class adventurer with no combat
capability.
There's no way I can catch him.
Notes
1. This may be referencing them being punished, but 226 isn't out so idk.
Potential bad TL. 仕事に関する罰はまた別に受けるのだから、それで良しとしようじゃな
いか。
2. Talhand carrying her out of the labyrinth for those that don't remember.
3. そしたら、もうちょっと頑張るって言うのよ、すごく可愛いの。Horrible TL
6. I had trouble translating Gisu's inflection in this letter, while the general TL is
shouldn't be incorrect, it may be missing some nuance. If you're skilled with
Japanese, I ask that you check this section carefully.
Part 1
Gisu Nukadia.
The last survivor of the race called Nuka tribe.
Combat experience is weak.
Has a specialty in other things.
Even though he doesn't stick to using magic or sword he has
continued being an adventurer; currently his rank is S-class.
Orsted.
He came to understand how this world and people operated with his
own actions,
from there he somehow located apostles and the like.
The history which he interferes with, the history which is not
interfered with.
While knowing all of it, Gisu's movement looked consistent in
whichever loop he went back and forth.
Just like Gisu, people not having high combat strength exists; those
who are going to keep secretly watching are among those who have
heard about the fight with Dragon God from Hitogami.
They don't operate publicly and move just like shadows, they help a
different apostle in need when necessary.
Such apostles were all but killed by Orsted.
Because his loop exists, it was easier to find and kill them.
『That guy is Hitogami's trump card. Next time there won't be any.』
But, I am in dismay.
I don't know what Gisu will try to do.
No matter what, since he seems like such a chivalrous man that I am
in dismay.
With the anxiety in my chest I wrote the letters and send it off, 『It
means that that guy doesn't have anymore tricks left.』 and such
were the content of the letter received.
With such a clumsy excuse I laughed a little bit.
Part 2
One month has passed since Gisu was detected as an apostle.
Although, it doesn't feel like he will be captured that easily with only
that much.
With the death of the king the Kingdom of the Dragon King is facing
various difficulties.
The Demon tribe is inconspicuous in the vast Demon continent.
If Gisu is moving while using the Teleportation Magic Square behind
my back, the possibility that it's neither of the two also exists.
That's what I would like to think but I don't know when we will be
attacked, that feeling doesn't disappear.
Part 3
Scary.
Now then, while I was searching for Gisu, Aisha had steadily formed
a branch of Mercenary Group.
"Now that I've come, it's alright! I'll have everyone split in two!"
"Eris...."
-FIN-
Part 4
Setting the joke aside.
I'll try to sort this out in a calm place.
Firstly, from the state of affairs 『Gisu will appear from right in front
after assembling his war potential』 if we're to believe such a case,
then from now on I have three courses of action. [6]
If I try to line it up, those things have not changed for the present.
Rather than focusing on the war potential 80 years later, the focus
has just changed around several years later.
Zenith has been looked after by the Latreia for this one month.
Since then Zenith has been looked after by the Latreia House in
place of the busy me and Aisha.
It could be called that she missed the Latreia house since she
frequently moved around there.
Strolling within the residence grounds, revolving around the garden.
Whenever there is the case of accompanying her with the housemaid
she tries to leave to walk outside.
As usual, she remained in her blank state but I understood that she
was fully enjoying her hometown after such a long time.
Looking at her, all the gentlemen and ladies of the Latreia house
made a really sorrowful looking face.
Eldest son Edgar, eldest daughter Anise........because of Gisu, I
wasn't able to greet them.
But, for the time being, "The next time I come back I will definitely
greet them" and entrusted this message.
"Rudeus-sama. For taking Zenith and bringing her here. I truly thank
you very much."
"But......"
"I'll definitely come."
I said it with a strong force while packing my belly with strength.
Thereupon, Claire loosened up her face with a puff.
Part 6
I also went to Miko's place to greet her.
While holding such things when I called out for the Miko, her
entourage came out.
Under the captain that has been newly dispatched, she was settled
down under the sub-captain position.
By the way, the new captain was not a very flexible person.
Bracelets aside, such a questionable thing like summoning magic
being used within the Religious Organization was rejected as
outrageous.
Not to mention, such an unreasonable thing was persisted by the
entourage. "This is a gift towards the Miko from Dragon God
Orsted-sama's subordinate(Rudeus) to defend her! How does a
mere captain have the authority to deny it!!"
Mr. Captain at this rate you surely won't be able to have a
successful career.
The animal that came out of the scroll was a silver colored owl.
Probably around 1 meter long.
It's small compared to Leo but it's existence is still there, with golden
colored pupils it felt like divinity.
In any case, it was nice that a sacred beast-like animal came out.
It could be that Mr. Captain would have been persistent in denying it
on the spot if a thing like a huge spider with a black lustre had come
out.
Part 7
Finally, it's Cliff.
If it's about Cliff, everything is going the favorable way for him from
the start.
The incident the other day made Cliff well-known to both the parties
of Pope's and Cardinal's.
"Cliff Grimoire persuaded the right hand of the Dragon God, Rudeus
and rescued the Miko-sama."
"He talked about the justice within the quarrel between the Pope and
Cardinal and made way for the path of righteousness."
"A model believer of Milis. A splendid man."
And then, driven by such rumors, Cliff seems to have taken on the
work himself.[10]
No matter how much political strife exists the duty of a priest doesn't
change.
And then, it can be said that Cliff also gained practical experience in
Sharia some way or another.
Even though he is a rookie the things that he can do are numerous, it
looks like he is viewed as an exceedingly superior man of talent.
Such a person like him is considered a nuisance by other people
but......
Well, it can't possibly be helped.
Suddenly an excellent person has entered not to mention the
grandchild of the Pope.
It won't be strange even if there are people burning with the flames
of jealousy.
Dealing with that in some way is Cliff's duty.
It seems Cliff has not yet confided to anybody about him being
married.
Although he has declared her to be her partner in his mind.....
It's not like Cliff.
At any rate.
It's not like he would consider hiding it until his last breath.
But, from now on, it's possible that the talk about formal marriage
can come up in this case.
Even if it's Wendy, the maid who returns after night falls, a young
man and woman under one roof is....
....If it's like this I'll end up holding the flag and making sure of it.
Really, give it your all, Cliff-senpai.
"Is it really? Since senpai has been popular these days. If you were
to accidentally push down Wendy-chan or the like."
"Wendy is like a little sister to me. If it was about you, would you
meddle like that."
"If this was not Cliff-senpai's own power then just what was it?"
"Haha."
The plans have changed a little bit but I should have been able to
carry out Elinalize's promise.
Cliff is already safe.
I don't know in what form the other priests will come into contact.
However, it will not be an exaggeration to say that the start has been
decided well.
This time, I'll leave it to Cliff.
The fight between the Pope's faction and the Cardinal's faction still
has some way to go.
Within them, Cliff will try his best, I wish for him to raise results.
Well, if it doesn't work out, it will be fine to make him our company
employee after he returns.
I want you to be at ease.
"In this one month, forgive me for not helping you out....."
"No, please don't mind it."
When I said that, Cliff shrugged his shoulders and wore a bitter
smile.
---
Notes
3. Author explained how Rudi was able to contact both the Dorudia and Ranoa
Kingdom. It went something like this for Dorudia : Transmission slate ->
Orsted -> Sharia mercenaries (Rinia, Pursena) -> office teleport circle ->
Dordia village. And for Ranoa : Transmission slate -> Orsted -> Roxy ->
Magic University -> Country ((This doesn't seem to appear within the
Japanese text of the chapter, so where did the author explain it?))
4. TLC せめて王竜王国にツテがあれば、魔大陸方面に逃げたと断定できたのだが……。
7. TLC オルステッド曰く、一式に搭乗した俺に勝てる者は少ないという。
9. Therese was about to be removed from the Miko's guard but because of the
petition she was not removed but rather demoted
11. http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=nose%20laugh
12. マッチポンプ[wasei]: match pump, i.e. lighting a match and then putting it out
with a water pump or stirring up trouble to get credit from the solution
Side Story - The Mad Dog and
the Child of God
Ever since she was aware of her surroundings, and every time
something happened and she was allowed to go outside, she had to
look into the dirty memories of adults.
In a world with no freedom, she lived a life with no hope.
When she fell into a trap while travelling and was surrounded, she
thought nothing except that it was scary, that she didn't want to die.
It was striking.
At the time, the miko had no idea what had just happened.
She wonders how much time has passed since she started that kind
of conduct.
She didn't think she would ever meet Eris again.
She wanted to meet her, but she never said it out loud.
She understood that she didn't have that authority.
The Mad Dog Sword King is a dangerous person, but I still want to
meet her.
I want to give her my thanks.
However, now that Eris is before her, she has no idea what to say.
Thinking that it would be rude to read her memories, she didn't meet
her eyes.
"..."
"Um, I'm the miko! Thank you so much for saving my life earlier!"
"Earlier...? I don't remember!"
"Eh?"
To the Eris that declared that in a loud voice, the miko reflexively
looked into her eyes.
"... ah."
And then, seeing that there wasn't even the slightest trace of herself
in Eris's memories, a saddened expression floated onto her face.
However, looking at her face, hearing about that time, Eris didn't
remember a thing.
Possibly, if she spent more time reading Eris's memories, she may
find some traces in the corner of her mind...
But after hearing about the past, what lurked in the corner of Eris's
mind was the memory of Therese hugging Rudeus as he sat in her
lap and rubbing his head.
With her arms crossed, the tall Eris let out a delightful voice.
After hearing that voice that seemed to blow away her shock, the
miko shook her head as if to shake off her thoughts.
A name.
She doesn't have a name.
Until now, the miko didn't feel inconvenienced by that.
However, now that Eris says she'll remember the miko's name, she
doesn't have one to give.
She's missing something important.
She finally gained an awareness of how big a loss that was. [1]
At the word 'Zanoba,' the miko once again looked into Eris's eyes.
It seems that mikos from other countries have names.
She couldn't see anything about that miko besides his name, since
Eris didn't have much interest in him.
Still, it came as quite a shock.
"Why, you!"
"Miko-sama is Miko-sama!"
"Are you mocking her!?"
"A name is unnecessary!"
"Where is your god!?"
However, with the uproar in the background, she calmed down a
little.
It didn't inconvenience her until now, and there's nothing that could be
done if she doesn't have one.
It can be thought of that way.
"You!"
"How dare you--!"
What was severed was the miko's wrist... or rather, a branch around
half it's width from the nearby Balta tree.
[3]
"..."
"......"
"Here."
"Try it."
"...Eh? Ah, yes."
Without really knowing what was going on, the miko continued to
swing the stick.
Each time the miko swung the stick, Eris gave advice.
"..."
"Call out each time you swing! One, two, one two!"
"One, two, one, two!"
Once she had repeated around 30 times, the miko let out a shaking
voice.
"U, Ummm..."
When the miko bent down and extended her hand, the owl stuck out
its forehead as if presenting the place that was itchy.
The miko stroked it with her fingernail, and the owl's fluffy feathers
stood on end, and it narrowed its eyes in pleasure.
"..."
I can't move too quickly here. Animals instinctively fear creatures
faster and stronger than themselves.
They'll be obedient if you completely dominate them, but if you want
to get along with them you have to make sure you aren't scary.
That's what she heard from the Rinia who she completely dominated
in bed.
Eris slowly and carefully extended her hand, and touched the silver
owl.
The silver owl's plumage that seems hard from afar were very soft,
and increased Eris's excitement.
She wants to immediately hug it tightly and bury her face into its
feathers, but she can't go that far.
If she were to do that it would run away, just like Leo, Rinia, and
Pursena.
However, it's fine if she doesn't go that far.
While thinking that, Eris rubbed the silver owl all over.
The silver owl was frightened like an impala being tormented by a
tiger, but none of the people there paid it any mind.
After enjoying that softness for a while, Eris stood up with flushed
cheeks.
Fur is nice, but feathers are extraordinary, thought Eris.
Suddenly, she noticed something.
"A name..."
"Nurse, huh? That's a good name! From today onwards, your name
is now Nurse!"
The miko bent down and pet the silver owl at her feet.
Seeing that, Rudeus shouted "Ah!" in a small voice.
Only Rudeus was turning away with a face that says "Oh, shit!"
Only Therese noticed that facial expression of Rudeus.
She noticed exactly who he was trying to name.
However, she didn't say it out loud.
She just smiled wryly.
The silver owl Nurse looked at that miko with its head tilted.
Notes
1. I took a lot of liberties here, but I couldn't think of a way to word it in English
without it sounding bland. それがとても、大きな喪失であるかのように思えた。
2. Not too sure about the part where the words were cut off. 「はい! 私もエリス様
みたいにかっこよくなりたいなって思ってて、言葉遣いとかも……え?」
4. I know what this means, but not how to properly put it in English. はて、名前。
5. Pun, おセンチ(osenchi) = sentimental, センチネル(senchinel) = sentinel
6. Katakana ナース "nāsu" like the English word. He made a joke about her name
being Nurse in chapter 219.
Credits
Illustrator — Shirotaka
Translator — Baka-Tsuki