The inn in Sandiano was a small hotel by the sea. Its appearance and interior are stylish and comfortable, but the rooms are small and there aren’t many of them. The best they could do was to prepare one large room per sex. You know, this is so like a school trip.
Busujima and Miyakoshi wanted to stay at a more gorgeous hotel, but that was reproved by Asagiri and Hinazawa because they didn’t know how much the expenses would be from now on.
Well, I more or less get Hinazawa, but Asagiri is surprisingly detailed in that sort of thing, she’s dependable, huh. Is she really a rich Ojou-sama? That’s what I think.
This hotel is a disgrace for the gal duo, but it seems the open air bath is to their joy. Moreover, it’s a very resort-like measure called ocean view.
That’s why I’m taking my clothes off at the dressing room in the large public bath alone. Because when I came back, no one was in the room. I asked the NPC at the reception of the hotel and it seemed they just went to the town. Thinking that they had left me behind again, I felt down, but that didn’t happen. Since this didn’t mean I had to move out yet, I limited myself to heal my tired body peacefully. And if I’m going to take a bath, doing it alone is much better. I’m not good at taking a bath with other people on school trips. I mean, doesn’t everyone hate it? Why do you have to take a bath with others? There’s nothing more unpleasant than that. And now that I think calmly about that, isn’t it gross to be naked with other men and submerged in the same hot water? People who aren’t very close to one are naked and at a very close distance. Taking a bath together like this is surely gay, isn’t it? A gay pick-up bath, right?
I dropped the towel and opened the bathroom door.
Yeah, I don’t want to take a bath with those bastards. But if it’s with a beautiful girl like this, it’s a different story.
– …
Yes, a beautiful girl like this…
The spacious public bath was full of sense of liberation. There’s a pool-like bathtub beyond the oblong washing area. And beyond that there are no walls, the sea and the blue sky continue. It looks as if the hot water of the bath continues to the sea as it is.
In the bathtub where steam was rising up slightly, there was a figure staring at the sea, standing up. And she turned her head to the sound of the door opened by me.
That pose is of a beautiful woman that certainly turns to look behind. Water drops shine on the glasses on her face. Her black hair falling out of the tied-up hair is sexy. The black hair sticks to the white skin, making it more obscene. The water drops slipping off her skin flow from the back to the valley of the buttocks as if being absorbed by them. The skin that is lightly dyed pink with hot water is cute and lascivious. The upper body was turned around, it had modest yet beautiful breasts showing a sideways appearance.
This is my third time worshipping this slender and delicate body, isn’t it?
But two of those instances aren’t my fault.
– Wha… wha… wha.
Shizukuishi Non was making her mouth and body quiver. And crouched in the bathtub as if falling.
– This perveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeert!!
– W-wait, what am I doing now!? Why is Shizukuishi here!?
– H-how can you brazenly come into the women’s bath and say that!?
– No! Back at you, you unashamedly go into the men’s bath! Are you a female molester Is this an AV!?
The face of Shizukuishi turns bright red with shame and anger.
– Hurry up and leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeave!
I hurriedly succeeded in running away to the dressing room.
– Wha!?
The dressing room looked different than before. The location of the washbasin and mirror is reversed, and there are all sorts of cosmetics on the washbasin. Those weren’t there before.
– Fuck, what the hell is going on!?
It seems this is really the women’s bath. Did I see an illusion?
I wrap a towel around my waist and get out into the hallway, barely covering my crotch and butt. Then I rushed to the men’s bath, to the door lined up next to it and that I had entered moments ago. Unlike the women’s dressing room, the layout is reversed and no cosmetics are placed in it. This is definitely the view I saw before getting in the bath.
– What the hell was that…?
I opened the door to the public bath as I complained.
There, Shizukuishi Non was standing in the washing room completely naked, wiping her hair.
– W-whaa…h!?
– Wha… wha…?
Shizukuishi glances at me with a face that is about to cry with her mouth still opened.
And her face blushed strongly.
– Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
W-wait! Didn’t you willingly show yourself totally naked to me some time ago!? Moreover, in a grand and embarrassing appearance called naked cloak!? I want to say that, but I can’t!
Shizukuishi twisted her body and hid her chest with one hand and her crotch with the other.
– You’re that kind of person! In the sea before as well! Do you bear a grudge against me!?
A mountain of grudge in fact! But I can’t say that!
– Wait, listen to me! Certainly, when I went outside, it was in the dressing room of the women’s bath! But I got out of the corridor for a moment and entered the men’s bath! I’m sure of that, believe me!
– If you want me to believe you, look away!
Oops! I had my eyes fixed on her.
I turned my back to Shizukuishi with teary eyes, as if turning where I am.
– … So, what are you going to state in your will?
– Wait a minute! You didn’t believe me!?
– I just said I couldn’t trust the excuses of a person who deliberately stares at a naked person, I didn’t say that I would trust you if you looked away.
Certainly it’s as you say! At that time, the door opened in front of me.
– Nonnon, is there a reason why you shouted just──
It was Asagiri.
I was seen by Asagiri of all people.
Asagiri hardened as she made her smile froze. And she blushed in a twinkle.
– Ah… I’m! I’m sorry!
– You’re wrong! This is not what you think, Asagiri! This is!
Making her eyes go round and round in her bright red face, Asagiri said as if shouting, covering her eyes with her palms.
– Y-you two are a-already at that point, I better get going!
– Y-you are, you’re wrong, Ririko. Calm down and think calmly. Think realistically, do you truly think I’m going to take a bath with raw garbage like Doumeguri-kun?
– Y-yeah! He’s in front of you!
Guwaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Shizukuishiiiii, can’t you make a better excuseeeeee!?
– I’m really sorry!
Asagiri escaped at high speed while panicking. She returned immediately and said, 「Go slowly」and gently closed the door.
And the sound of her footsteps becoming more distant are heard.
A, Asagiriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!
I lamented in my mind.
After that, I desperately explained to Asagiri and conducted a demonstration experiment together to confirm that this mysterious phenomenon had certainly occurred.
– I jumped to a wrong conclusion, didn’t I? Sorry.
She said so blushing and hung her head.
– T-that was my first time… seeing that sort of thing. I was shaking.
But Asagiri-san. There was nothing like that.
When I thought that it didn’t turn into something serious, I was kidnapped by the troop of men led by Ichinomiya after that.
– Can you explain us what was all that?
I was asked that with an incredible serious face.
Then I got stuck with doing a second demonstration experiment. By the way, Arisugawa played the role of a woman. Anyway, why is there a bug like this? It’s in development so it can’t be helped, but it’s scary because… there are probably more things like this.
It seems that this didn’t happen last night, but for the time being, the bath will be used in turns, and with this and that, it was already evening. The girls come to the men’s large room and a meeting is held.
Everyone naturally understands that Ichinomiya and Asagiri sitting by the window are in the chairmen’s seats. We sit, scattering around on the wooden floor with those two as the center.
I was a little away from the circle and sat a certain distance, away from everyone. But there’s a person farther away than me. Only Shizukuishi stood, leaning against the wall. Asagiri gave her a shout, but she didn’t move, it was hopeless.
Each person was chatting, but when Ichinomiya started the debate, everyone stopped talking and lent an ear to Ichinomiya.
– This is the question brought up in the discussion last night. I’d like to confirm everyone’s willingness to buy a ship.
After all, this was the topic they were talking about. What other one would it be?
– I’ve decided to buy one! This is the Age of Exploration! Let’s learn from the Vikings, my ancestors, and storm the seven seas!
He’s wrong in so many ways, but I don’t care what he says anymore.
– Why not? I agree. Cruising on a ship is really nice.
– That’s true. Ageha also agrees. What about marine activities?
I want to buy a fishing boat and break their dreams, but I want to make them desist from buying a ship if possible. I cannot afford to give any more powerful equipment or items to 2A anymore, and I’m worried about the elf Ernes’s words.
『My name is Ernes. If you happen to cross the ocean, please go to Arzheim once. There may be ways for us to fight together with humans』
If I assume that 2A Guild and the elves have really formed an alliance, things will get difficult again. The settlement for that will be in three weeks. I don’t want that trouble to awaken. Above all, it’s difficult to come and go to Infermia. According to Aikawa-san, teleport is limited to the same continent. In other words, it will be difficult for me to use Doumeguri Kakeru and Hellshaft properly and freely. In that sense, I want to prevent expanding their field of activities.
– Indeed, I agree as well. After all, if we don’t widen our actions, we’ll have no future.
Yuuki mutters in a low voice as if following Hinazawa.
– M-me too…
– Well, I guess I also agree?
Well, many of them have approved, so Yamada seems to go along with it.
– Oh! I have no choice but to go there. I’m a sea man!
When did you become a sea man, Ougiya? Weren’t you from Saitama?
– I’m really excited about cruising, but… I’m a little scared. Elf-onee-san says there are disputes between races on the other continent.
Yeah, well done, Arisugawa.
Asagiri thought a little and nodded lightly.
– Yeah. I agree with you… but ships are expensive, aren’t they?
When it comes to budget, everyone groans as if being troubled. However, Ichinomiya said carelessly.
– That’s right. However, if we sell the materials dropped by the Adamite Golem we defeated before, we can buy one. That’s why everyone needs to agree.
Nevertheless, and speaking of materials, Ichinomiya distributed the rewards for defeating it with everyone. And well, we can’t return to reality holding them or convert them into money. I dare say if Ichinomiya wants to buy one, nobody would say no.
– What do you think, Shizukuishi-san?
Ichinomiya talks to Shizukuishi standing close to the wall. However, Shizukuishi kept staring forward and diagonally downward with a grim face.
– Going to a continent without Hellshaft-sama…! The chances of meeting him will be reduced, right?
She was muttering dangerous things. Nobody will earnestly ask her something else, so why would I fuss about that?
Asagiri showed a dry laugh to Shizukuishi who didn’t reply no matter how long she waited.
Ichinomiya also folded his arms with a bitter smile.
– Well, a lot of you agree… and what about you, Doumeguri?
– Eh?
– Eh, isn’t it obvious? Tell us your opinion, Doumeguri.
Well, I was surprised they asked for my opinion. Moreover, everyone looks at me. Stop, it feels like you’re taking my life! I feel like my life shortens when seen by others.
– Oh… I see.
But what is this? They naturally bring up the subject to me and wait for my reply. It’s like I’m a normal class member, don’t you agree? Until now, that wasn’t the case. My presence is like the air, the standard of 2A is to act as if I weren’t there, with no intention to ignore me.
Why is it like this now!? I’m troubled! If I don’t get them to think in the same way even if I’m not here, this will get hard, it will be difficult to move.
But now I have no choice but to express my opinion.
– … Certainly, since this is an RPG, it’s time to go further, to another continent.
But ships are a bad idea.
There are other reasons besides the alliance with the elves and teleportation being unusable. Infermia is surrounded by a huge lake all around. But, in fact, it’s an inland sea connected to the sea.
If we enter the inland sea, it’s very likely that we’ll easily be allowed to land near Infermia. These guys obtaining a ship is like thrusting a knife at my throat.
I gave a look at everyone, seemingly worried.
– Opening new frontiers is certainly attractive, but danger comes with it. Probably there are things we don’t know and monsters we haven’t seen.
– I see, Doumeguri is the type that is cautious, huh.
Ichinomiya nodded, looking collected.
– But hasn’t it been the same all this time? Is there any reason to be on guard again?
Rather than arguing, Ichinomiya felt like asking a question calmly.
– Until now, it was like being compulsorily thrown out to the field. But we can choose whether to cross the sea or not. We don’t know what will happen on the sea, nor do we know well what else is on the other continent.
Miyakoshi, who was sexily sitting at ease with her legs out to one side, admired him as if fawning on him.
– It has been like this so far, so it’s not that much different?
– It means there are too many unknown things than before. For example, we’ve travelled domestically so far, and now we’re going overseas. Although we can call this the “starting region”, is there a sense of security when travelling within the same country? Even if you say that the culture is different or the customs are different, they’re of no importance. But that’s not the case overseas.
– An overseas travel!? Isn’t that great!?
The simpleton Busujima held onto it with sparkling eyes. Miyakoshi gets excited as well. Damn, was the example that bad?
– Yo! That’s good! But I can’t, I’ll be deported to Germany!
Pack him and send him back.
– The hell!? Moreover, cruising is the best, isn’t it!? A travel to the southern island!
The stupid Ougiya shouts loudly in excitement. I talked to everyone to change the flow of the conversation somehow.
– But we should be careful. It’s dangerous to keep talking and getting carried away. The sea isn’t necessarily safe. What kind of monsters a──
– The hell? Now it’s bad for us to take on an adventure?
– Eh? No, that’s not what I…
Hinazawa, who lie down on the floor, raised her face.
– In any case, we won’t reach the ending without continuing the story, will we?
Damn, she suddenly had the nerve to mention the explanation as the game. Yuuki, who’s sitting next to her, doesn’t look impressed.
Before I reply back, Asagiri, who’s sitting on the floor, grasping her knees, showered questions on me.
– That’s right. The fact that the ship and the elf appeared here means that we can go to the elf country by ship. Isn’t that right, Doumeguri-kun?
Kuh… I’m being suspected for going too much against the idea. Isn’t that bad? I stared at the eyes of the pure Asagiri. They are as beautiful as a clear lake. But at the bottom of the lake there is a feeling that has settled like mud. The return to the original world and her obsession with the Demon King Hellshaft must be swirling in the deepest part where the light doesn’t reach.
The sword that kills me with a single blow is hidden in Asagiri’s item list.
– Aren’t you actually a minion of the Demon King?
──!?
Ougiya said, grinning.
Miyakoshi joined him with a light tone.
– Ah! That may be. You disappear often, which means you’re working as a subordinate of the Demon King? Or maybe you’re the Demon King?
My heart rings like a bell.
This is bad, calm down.
Even if I think so, they can tell that my expression is stiff.
Of course, both Ougiya and Miyakoshi aren’t talking about it seriously.
Arisugawa cutely puts his finger on his cheek and tries to recall something.
– Come to think of it… Doumeguri-kun came just after the siege of Infermia’s Castle, didn’t he?
– Maybe it was around that?
Yamada does an “I don’t care” interjection. Your statement is almost pointless, so be silent.
– Now that you mention it, we actually saw the Demon King for the first time during that castle siege.
Hinazawa muttered with a certain air that said “for some reason or other”.
Ichinomiya listened to everyone’s exchanges with an amazed-looking smile. His true feelings appear to be saying 『Yare yare, getting excited with a joke like that… I want to proceed with the topic of discussion, but everyone seems to be having fun so it can’t be helped』
No! You have to take control at moments like this, goddammit!
Asagiri cuts into the conversation, pouting her lips.
– Jeez, everyone is getting carried away. There’s no way that’s true.
– Yeah, Doumeguri doesn’t have what it takes to be the Demon King.
– Yeah, I’d say he’s a subordinate orc at best?
– Ahaha I get that ♪, but yeah, he gives off that vibe.
Busujima and Miyakoshi laugh together.
– Do we try… using Holy Grave?
──Eh?
– Huh?
The inside of the large room fell completely silent.
It was a lazy way of speaking, but it definitely reached everyone’s ears. But nobody knew what to say at first.
Yuuki, Uiko?
That’s unexpected. To think this girl would make such a drastic statement.
When I turn a gaze of surprise at her, Yuuki looks away as if she was scared. The face I saw for a moment is unmistakably a face shaking from fear.
Yuuki mutters with a hoarse voice, her eyes still averted.
– I-if we write… the name of Doumeguri-kun on that sword and slash at him with it… Then Doumeguri-kun can prove that he’s not the Demon King… right?
──Wha!?
Moreover, she had the nerve to make doubly sure!
Certain, Yuuki was timid and coward. But unlike Busujima, she didn’t seem to be that scared of the dungeon in Rummel Mountains. Perhaps what she fears the most are humans. Surely she’s afraid of me now.
And because of her cowardice, her defensive instinct is extremely strong. To get rid of her fear, she’s willing to even torture others in a witch trial.
Hinazawa, a relatively close friend of hers, also gave a slightly stiffened smile.
– Hey, Uiko. Unexpectedly saying so is…
– It’s… to be certain of it.
Asagiri also said like she was confused.
– Y-you can’t doubt a classmate like that.
However, Yuuki persists.
– I-it’s okay… just poke the fingertip…
It’s not okay at all!! What the hell is wrong with this woman!? Only at times like this, her audacity and persistence get awfully strong. If this keeps going, they’re really going to make me do the test. I have to do something──
– Stop this nonsense.
A cold voice resounded.
——Shizukuishi!?
Shizukuishi, who was leaning against the wall, comes to us, swaying. Her severe gaze is as usual, but it’s not just that, she makes killing intent drift from her whole body.
She stands in front of Yuuki and glares at her with frozen-like eyes.
– *Eek*…
That was enough for Yuuki to have teary eyes.
– I don’t know what you’re afraid of, but think calmly. Demon King Hellshaft is an NPC no matter how you look at it. It’s hard to think that someone is inside of it. To say nothing of Doumeguri-kun, right? That’s impossible.
– E-excuse me…
Shizukuishi continues to mercilessly attack Yuuki who is trembling.
– You’re telling me that a person like Doumeguri-kun who can’t imagine standing on top of others and who’s an aloof and an unsociable person without an ounce of popularity or appeal is the Demon King? Don’t make me laugh.
Laughter leaks from all around. Hey, guys. Is that something to laugh about?
– I don’t think it’s a sane idea to consume a valuable item like Holy Grave for such an insignificant thing. This is an item that everyone struggled to get, right? So just for the sake of reducing your baseless anxiety is──
Hinazawa intervened as she gave a wry smile.
– W-we get it, we get it, Shizukuishi-san. Isn’t that right, Uiko?
Yuuki was completely overwhelmed by Shizukuishi and couldn’t mutter anymore, she just shook her hanging head to the left and right.
Shizukuishi turned her face away violently and went back to the wall she was leaning against.
– Truly as expected of Nonnon.
Asagiri says to her back.
– Huh?
Looking back over her shoulder, Shizukuishi turns her head with an intense look in her eyes.
– Because Nonnon… Shizukuishi-san is really worried about Doumeguri-kun.
Asagiri smiled like a goddess.
– … What are you talking about?
Shizukuishi, who made the already bad look in her eyes aggravate to a worse level, said as if spitting out.
– Why should I worry about food scraps?
– Food… huh?
Asagiri blinked without understanding the meaning.
– Simply put, I’m disgusted that someone like Doumeguri-kun is being treated as Hellshaft-sa… as the Demon King. Stop misunderstanding.
Shizukuishi immediately left the room, leaving 「I’ll leave the decision to everyone」with us.
Thanks to this, a delicate mood remained in the room. It’s a kind of a talent to take her leave, leaving such a bad impression behind.
However, this saved me. I can’t stop them from buying a ship anymore. At least the after-treatment will have to be done successfully. I cleared my throat and bowed my head lightly.
– … I’m sorry. It’s not like I wanted to complain or bother everyone. From now on, even if you don’t ask my opinion──
– What are you talking about, Doumeguri?
Ichinomiya gave a broad grin.
– It’s so nice that Doumeguri has that role. I’d do the same, but everyone gets relatively carried away, no? So it’s nice to have someone who would give objective opinions like Doumeguri.
– … Ichinomiya.
All members of 2A turn around and look at me. What is reflected in their eyes? Is it surprise, envy or jealousy? What do they think of the King giving a certificate of value to an aloof who had no value to society?
Asagiri turns a smile full of compassion and parental affection to me.
Please no, not that face.
The expectations, deep affection and friendship of those around me and all the relationships are a heavy burden. They may be worthwhile. But they are too heavy for me to carry on my back.
I can’t meet others’ expectations.
Everyone will be absolutely disappointed.
If I get along with them on the surface, but they know what’s at the bottom, they’ll think「so that was all that he got, huh」.
I’ll be a being not worth worrying about, and everyone will go away from me.
Even if I frantically work hard so that doesn’t happen, for what sake would that be?
Why do I have to be tied to that?
I want to be carefree.
I want to be free from everything.
With that in mind, the meeting went on and came to a conclusion.
They decided to buy a ship tomorrow.
A week later, I was in the middle of the ocean.
The unending, admiringly beautiful blue sea. The weather is nice, I have no worries about the voyage so far. The sunlight rains incessantly and brilliantly; to put it bluntly, is hot. The rays of the sun are strong in the sea near the equator. However, the sea breeze feels so good, it’s surprisingly easy to spend time by getting in the shade.
Others will do so by talking and playing games in the cabin. I’m the only one on the deck. It’s good, this feeling that is reserved to me. Until recently, I played in the water when the ship stopped, if not, I was in the cabin.
There were no monsters in the sea as I thought they would be. No, maybe there are, but we haven’t been attacked yet.
We immediately went to buy a ship the day after the meeting. The budget obtained from selling the items dropped by the Adamite Golem was 300,000 sol. Or 30 million yen. It’s truly a shame that we can’t convert it into money.
We all went to the harbor and found the man from the shipyard who had a talk with Ernes, and we started the negotiations. 300,000 sol was a very large sum of money, but it was surprisingly difficult on a budget for a ship that could carry 12 people and sail for a long time.
However, to think capable persons would play an active role here.
– We’re buying with spot cash though? Isn’t it expensive? Another store had it cheaper though. Oh, not having that option is kind of troubling.
– Ageha is troubled. Hey, please, do something about it, just a bit more.
Until then, the person stubbornly kept the price as it was, but once Busujima and Miyakoshi started the negotiations, he rapidly grew weak. And they managed to procure the ship within the budget somehow.
To think that the gal duo had trade skills. I thought they were useless, but they were helpful in a situation like this.
… I mean, they are. Their ability is a skill that combined both shamelessness and impudence that persistently pressed the stores for price reductions. Let’s name it Oba-chan skill.
So, the ship we got was a large yacht with a total length of over 20 meters. It would really be difficult to operate a real ship, but these applied game-like simple operations. Still, it took three days until we became able to cruise by ship. We practiced for a while near Sandiano, and finally set sail.
As I leaned against the handrail of the ship, I looked at the magnificent sea stretching on my path.
I run my fingers in the air and open the menu. Nothing happens when I select teleport and choose a destination. It’s no surprise that Aikawa-san’s words seemed correct.
Now that it has come to this, all I can do is buy time. I’ll spend the next two weeks on the Logress continent and wait for Santa──X to be applied.
I fixed my eyes on the stern of the ship. I can no longer see Sandiano, which is supposed to be beyond that point. We go along and near the equator, running parallel to the west, below Balgaea continent. We pass under the westernmost tip of the Balgaea continent and the Logress continent was there. The aim is Arzheim on the Logress continent. The country where the elves live.
– You were here, Doumeguri.
The door to the deck opened, and Ichinomiya turned up.
For some reason, I feel that he has come to talk to me often lately. I don’t like that trend too much.
– Can you take a lot at this for a moment?
He sat on the couch on the deck and spread a piece of paper on the table. With just a glance at the paper fluttering in the wind, I knew what it was.
– A map, huh?
I sat opposite him.
– Yeah. I obtained it in Sandiano. This seems to be a map of this world.
That’s right. It was in the development data and in Infermia.
– What do you think when you see this, Doumeguri?
I thought how I should answer.
– There are many unknown continents and islands. Even Balgaea is full of unexplored territories.
– That’s right. This world is much larger than we thought. But is there anything else to worry about?
Ichinomiya seems to be trying my reaction. I sigh in my mind.
– With the exception of land route, I think it’s possible to march into Infermia.
Ichinomiya leaned forward as if getting a bit excited.
– You think so too?
Ichinomiya points at the area around Infermia, the east of Balgaea continent shown on the map.
– We walked from Caldart towards Infermia, so we didn’t even notice this in the slightest. But in fact, Infermia had a terrain as if surrounded by a huge lake. And this lake is connected to the sea.
– Inland sea, huh. If we disembark there, we’ll be able to establish a camp very close to Infermia, and depending on the situation, there’s also the possibility of directly marching into it by ship. We can outsmart Hellander and we can use all sorts of means, even methods of attacking.
– The problem is when the next Castle Siege Quest will occur. It’s too late to start preparations after the quest has triggered, and we can’t use the NPC’s forces unless we’re in a Castle Siege Quest.
I thought with my arms folded.
What to do?
I think it’s good to relax in the elf country or look around other continents and islands, but Ichinomiya’s character is difficult. Rather, it might be profitable to say something that sounds good and make him challenge an impossible fight.
As I was thinking about that, Ichinomiya began to talk.
– I’m thinking of forming an alliance with the elves.
For an instant, I felt I was attacked by an enemy by surprise. I surely must have had a stupid face.
– … Alliance? Elves?
– That’s right. According to Arisugawa and Leon, the elves seem to be friendly to humans. At any rate, it’s because of that we’re going to the elf country. We’ll give it a try because we have nothing to lose. We’ll propose an alliance with humans and cooperate to fight against Hellandia.
Alliance, friendly… I see. Now that I think about it, this really seemed to be the plan this guy thought about.
As I say so to myself, Ichinomiya folded his arms looking complicated.
– But… is that kind of thing really possible? I don’t have confidence in myself. That’s why I wanted to hear Doumeguri’s opinion.
I deposited my back on the couch and smiled in a posture as if throwing my chest out.
– Well, I’m an aloof, so those kinds of personal relationships are… but since they are elves, I don’t know how my relationship with them will be. If Ichinomiya says he has no confidence in himself, then I can only say it’s impossible for me.
Ichinomiya said, 「Is that so」and bit his lips.
– … But the elf I met in Sandiano was afraid that their neighbors, the Dark Elves, would form an alliance with Hellandia. In other words, it appears as if forming an alliance with another country or race is a possible option for them. And if the danger increases, the elves should want a partner to work with. If we bring the crisis in Hellandia to their attention and show that we have concrete ways to win… Then an alliance can be formed.
Ichinomiya’s expression became steep while listening to my story.
– But how do we present a concrete way to win…
– What are you saying? You just said it, didn’t you?
Ichinomiya opened his eyes as if suddenly realizing.
– A surprise attack by ship──right?
Ichinomiya closed his eyes. The salty sea breeze waves as if playing with Ichinomiya’s smooth and dry hair. After a short time, he opened his eyes and said.
– Let’s do it.
Ichinomiya grabbed the map and stood up.
– I’ll explain it to everyone. Let’s talk later.
I responded to Ichinomiya who returned to the cabin by raising my hand appropriately.
However, I certainly don’t intend to let you form an alliance so easily. I’ll disturb as much as I can.
I stared at the stern of the ship. White waves follow the sea that came passing by like footsteps. Are those following the traces satisfactorily?
The ship of 2A Guild travels through the sea enveloped by fog.
– I can’t see anything.
Shizukuishi scorned at Asagiri who muttered so, sounding anxious.
– I’d say it feels very bleak.
– Jeez… don’t say weird things.
We should be around the moment the Logress Continent is visible. However, the fog that drifts from the sea like steam has left us without visibility and we can’t see a thing even 100 meters away.
– But there’s really the danger of being stranded… let’s go as slowly as possible.
When Ichinomiya gives those instructions, Ougiya, Leonhardt, and Yamada lower the sails.
– Hmm? Huh? I can’t see anything?
When Busujima strains her eyes in our direction of movement, Miyakoshi also does the same.
– Oh, it’s true. There’s some kind of shadow… ueeh!?
Huge silhouettes emerges from the thick fog.
– This is……
The scenery where nothing was seen until now suddenly starts to change color. The huge silhouettes were the shadows of mountains. Pointed mountains with many peaks. And below them there’s a deep forest covered with tall trees.
There’s a white veil-like haze covering the forest.
And a warm orange light dimly shining in it. The light that shines through the gaps in the trees is clearly an artificial brilliance. And a lot of lights wash ashore before that. “That” is a shining wave of light as if drawing a coastline. The foreshore is dimly glowing green.
I look at the lights of the beautiful forest hazed by the fog and the sea interweave, and finally the harbor came in sight. There were people standing in a row at the edge.
They are beautiful knights with long golden hair and pointed ears.
This seems to be Arzheim, the elf country.
– Where are you from!?
One of the elves, a young man with a beautiful appearance, asked. Ichinomiya bends himself forward and replies.
– We’re humans from Caldart, Balgaea! I’d like to intermediate with an elf representative!
The elf youth whispered something to other elf. Is he asking for advice?
The discussion ended and the elf youth raised his face, turned to us and shouted.
– An audience with the Queen will be considered! Dock the ship for now and follow us!
– Thank you!
We took the mooring rope thrown by the elf and brought the ship to the pier. And when we landed safely, we walked, following the young man. We are escorted… rather, we advanced, being seen in all directions by elven knights. I feel like a criminal being escorted.
The elf town continued along the sea from the harbor. The lively image is certainly of a port city, but it doesn’t have fancy signs or guys who attract people to entertainment events in loud voices.
It’s very quiet and elegant. That’s my first impression.
The people are mostly young men and women. There are children, but they aren’t noisy or running. Their manners are very elegant and refined. There may be differences in status and wealth, but everyone looked stylish and rich. The knights who escort us are noble to a certain extent.
The city itself has a calm atmosphere and is full of grace as if matching the people. The buildings are all white, with sharp roofs and narrow pillars. The carvings added on the buildings and the patterns shaped on the walls are all delicate and beautiful, I truly don’t get tired of them.
The young man walking at the head looked back and said.
– Don’t be offended. It is extremely unusual for humans to come to Arzheim. Ordinary ships can’t get through the elf fog and continue wandering about.
This good looking man has the nerve to say something so scary without hesitation.
– But judging from appearances…
The young man glanced at Ichinomiya and Asagiri, and Leonhardt and Shizukuishi who were a bit far away.
– You, that woman and the two people in the back row are human… but I can see you are closer to elves for some reason. Is it because of that?
And then glances at me.
– Still, humans are really diverse in shape.
Hold on a second. What on earth do you mean with that?
After a short walk in the city, it turned into a forest. However, there’s no clear demarcation, the impression I have is as if the city gradually blends with the forest. The trunk of the trees gradually becomes thicker and the number of giant trees boasting amazing heights increases. After a long walk through the giant woods, a huge building with white walls emerged from the gap between the trees.
– Wow! Amazing….
Ougiya let out a surprised voice. But most of us just had their breaths taken away.
It was a fine and elegant castle with many spires. It has an appearance that feels beautiful and magnificent, appropriate for the pure and sacred elf forest. The material is a combination of white stone and crystal-like transparent stone. Despite being a big castle like this, the lightness of these materials is without a doubt one of the reasons that give an impression similar to taking off.
– Uwaaa… it’s beautiful.
Asagiri mutters mixed with a sigh.
The elf youth proudly said.
– That is the elf castle. The castle where the Queen of Arzheim lives. The Weisskrone Castle.
There are many trees standing around the castle and spiral staircases were made around their trunks. Those staircases led to huts built on stretched branches.
I see, those are hotels.
– Wait here for now. You have to wait at least a day to meet with the Queen.
– Eh? We can’t see her right away?
Ichinomiya chides Ougiya who complained.
– We come uninvited all of a sudden, making the top position of this country meet us. It’s obvious, no?
I have already assumed that waiting time.
When it was decided we would go to Arzheim, I went back to Infermia and asked questions to the Hellzekters.
『Do you know who’s the representative of Arzheim? 』
The Hellzekter, who were suddenly asked that, were bewildered for a moment, but Adra immediately replied.
『The Queen of the Elves… if I remember correctly, her name was Ulriel? 』
The sound of a cup placed on a plate resounded with a clank.
『……I am sorry』
It seems that Satanachia, who was drinking tea, put the cup on the plate with unexpected momentum.
『Satanachia. Will Ulriel concede me a meeting right away?』
『About that… It is difficult to ascertain that about the elf country』
『But, don’t you know them better than us?』
『Hmm, that is correct. Dark elves and elves are mutual enemies. It is natural to investigate the enemy in detail. Do you have any information?』
Asked as if being pressed by Grasha and Adra, Satanachia reluctantly opened her mouth.
『I do not know… but I guess she will probably meet you. Normally, you may have to wait as little as one day and as long as a week… but if we talk about Hellshaft-sama, she will meet you without having to wait』
──That was what she said. She was very detailed.
Since the waiting time is at least one day, I have to move immediately.
– Whoa, It looks like a Southeast Asian resort.
Asagiri looked up at the huge tree hotel and smiled like a child.
– Yo! Let’s go up quickly!
– Yup. Oh, there are rooms at the base too. Are those for people with fear of heights…?
I turned my back on the frolicking 2A and tried to leave without making a sound.
– Ah, Doumeguri-kun. Where are you going?
Asagiri easily spotted me and called me to stop.
– Well… I’m just going to see the area around here.
Asagiri thought for a moment, and ran up to me.
– Then why don’t we go together?
──Wha! A-Asagiri-san!? W-what are you talking about!?
– I’m also curious and it seems fun to be well-informed before everyone else.
She smiled with a mischievous smile.
Dammiiiiiit! What the hell is with this timiiiiiing!? Aaargh, it’s so vexing! What a waste! Rather, even if I want to give priority to the exploration tour around the elf town with Asagiri, this is a date! A date, right!?
──Like hell it’s a date. I know that.
But my spirit wasn’t made of steel enough to defeat this temptation.
When I became aware of it, Asagiri and I were walking around the elf town.
If you’re going to call me a weak, then call me as such. You can curse at me, saying that I’m weak-willed. This choice is worth it. As I say so to myself, my heart prostrated itself in the direction of Infermia.
– Wow, it’s Christmas! Hey, look, look, Doumeguri-kun!
The town in the forest away from the port town was completely “Christmas-like”. A large Christmas tree is decorated and colorful decorations and lights shine in the center of the dim square were the sun was setting. Red and green decorations and decorative illuminations glittered the shops surrounding the square. It doesn’t feel as noisy as other towns, but considering it’s an elf town, a frivolous feeling hung in the air.
– It’s so beautiful… wow, the lights don’t look like light bulbs but fireflies!
Asagiri is very excited about the surprise called Christmas Event. No, thanks to this, I was saved. It’s impossible for me to entertain Asagiri with my conversation techniques. Despite being in development, I give my thanks to everyone at Hell’s Domain who prepared the data for the Christmas Event.
– Are you thirsty? Is there a place we can talk calmly somewhere, I wonder?
– Err… what should we do? Hahaha.
An elegant residence was located overlooking the square. It looks like a café, Elves in waitress-style clothes stands at the storefront.
– Hey… does that… look okay?
I have no reason to refuse. We entered the café and sat on the terrace. It’s December, but the climate is a bit cool. We can relax and watch the Christmas lights without freezing.
I mean, I can’t relax. My heart has been nervous all this time. But why did Asagiri invite me? She said subtle things that felt like she wasn’t going out with Ichinomiya. Maybe she’s going to, with me…?
– Doumeguri-kun. There’s something I want to ask you…
Ask me? Y-you serious? No, looking at me with upturned eyes and casting your eyes downward is a killer technique, you know? Since she’s dispatching that, then that means she has an interest in m──
– To be honest, it’s about Akira-kun.
──Huh?
– I don’t know the reason why Akira-kun wants to return to our world, so I wonder if you haven’t heard anything.
– … Reason?
Asagiri blushes and fidgets, looking embarrassed.
– For example… if there’s someone in our world, or a person he wants to see… or a close person.
Oh, I see….
– Recently, Doumeguri-kun and Akira-kun have gotten along. So probably that kind of conversation would have come out, which would be great. I-I say so, but I don’t want you to forcibly get that information, okay?
I thought that probably she wasn’t going out with Ichinomiya on the sandy beach of Sandiano, but that didn’t mean I had a chance. The wonderful girl in front of me thinks nothing of me. That’s how it was. Asagiri was kind to everyone.
I’m the only man who can provide information about the man she’s in love with, that’s all there is to it.
But this is fine.
I can leave Asagiri to Ichinomiya.
Depending on the situation, I may end up doing terrible things to Asagiri in adult mode again. I don’t have the qualifications to receive the kindness from Asagiri.
I got up from the chair.
– Sorry. I have to keep going a little more… I’m really sorry.
Asagiri waved her hands as if flustering.
– Not at all, it is I who should say so! I’m sorry for asking something weird out of nowhere.
– No, Asagiri isn’t at fault. Well… about your last question, I’ve never heard Ichinomiya say that there’s a girl in our original world he wants to see.
– Eh!? It’s not like I was talking about girls only──
Asagiri blushed and panicked, waving her hands horizontally.
– See you later.
I parted from Asagiri who waves her hand with a smile and left the store.
──Yes, my aim isn’t to raise my likability with Asagiri.
But save Asagiri’s life.
And make Asagiri happy.
Will Asagiri be happy by dating me and being my girlfriend?
The answer is NO.
First of all, I don’t have such capabilities.
I, who betrays everyone, isn’t qualified to treat Asagiri kindly.
Besides, when we return to reality, my deeds will naturally be found out. When that happens, Asagiri will be disillusioned and disdainful to me.
No, it’s fine, really, but based on Asagiri’s personality, I feel that Asagiri herself will be shocked and hurt rather than hate me.
That’s why I shouldn’t get too close to Asagiri.
I make sure she returns to the path we came and then I go deep in the forest. Then I hid behind a large tree and looked around.
Alright… no one is here.
I put my fingers in an L shape and twisted my wrist to open the menu.
Now it ’s Demon King time.
– So you are Demon King Hellshaft, the one I have heard in rumors?
I met the Queen of the Elves during the audience at the Castle of the Elves, the Weisskrone Castle.
Queen Ulriel was a very beautiful Queen. All elves look young, but the queen, just like the rest, seems to be in her twenties. She sits on the splendid throne above the stairs, staring at me with eyes half-closed without blinking. There’s a silver shining crown on her head. And her hair is ridiculously long, the golden shining hair extends even on the floor.
– Elf Queen Ulriel. It’s an honor to be able to meet you.
It was easy to meet her. I imposingly walked in from the front and told them that I came to see the Queen. Well, I knocked some knights that annoyed me off their feet. The elven young man who guided 2A Guild was also beaten, but this was also unavoidable due to the procedure. The Queen wouldn’t have received me unless I did this.
– Let’s go straight to the point. Join forces with me, Ulriel.
The elven authorities and guards standing in lines in the audience room caught their breaths.
– Wha… what is this absurd joke to the Queen──
An uncollected close associate interjected. But the Queen raised one hand and stopped him.
– Demon King, why do you want an alliance with Arzheim?
-For the peace of this world, of course.
– Peace?
A commotion took place in the audience room. Agitation runes among the close associates.
But Queen Ulriel doesn’t change her face as if being frozen.
– This is laughable. Is that a Hellandia-style joke?
She says with a face like she wasn’t interested at all.
– The Demon King, who brings destruction and chaos to this world and tries to get everything in his hands, speaks of peace?
– This world will not be peaceful unless someone rules it. Only a powerful person can subdue worthless disputes. What do you think, Ulriel? If you join me now, I guarantee Arzheim’s rights on this continent.
The Queen’s eyes became thinner.
– And because of that, you are communicating with the Dark Elves in Rowalrinna? How foolish. I don’t care what you have to say. Everything that you say is for appearance’s sake. No more than pretenses varnished with lies.
──!?
My heart jumped.
Calm down, why would I be flustered!? Those are no more than words. Just a speech created by AI based on the original scenario.
I looked up at the Elf Queen.
Her eyes that let me feel their dignity and strength pierced me.
For some reason, her eyes felt like she could see through to the bottom of my heart.
──What is this “losing to a character” feeling? What to do when humans are scared of AI!?
I cheer myself up, but I can’t stop my spine from growing cold.
– You can leave, Demon King Hellshaft. Never set foot into this land again.
Ulriel declared, leaving no room for fine negotiations.
Collect yourself, Doumeguri Kakeru. The chances of success were almost 0 from the start, weren’t they? It will breakdown as planned.
I waved my flame cloak and turned my back on the Queen.
– Very well. But Elf Queen. Let me give you one advice.
– Hou, what?
– Humans should be coming to this country now. Be cautious of them like you are with me. Those bastards will propose an alliance. But they only consider using the elves. Try asking why they want to form an alliance. You’ll understand that they only think of you as pieces for their own circumstances.
– … I will take that advice.
I step forward and stood still as if remembering something.
– And one more thing. There are two male swordsmen among humans. It’s better to be careful of the one that is short.
– Why is that?
– Because he’s giving plans in the shadows together with humans. He is the craftiest among humans. Humans have weak will and have a tendency to change. If you look at that man, you’ll understand that humans are less trustworthy than me.
I make my cloak wave and start walking.
– In case you trust human beings, you should imprison that man.
I leave that sharp parting remark and left the elf castle.
Two days later, I met the Elf Queen Ulriel face-to-face again. This time, as a human, as Doumeguri Kakeru. All 12 of us are lined up in 2 rows during the audience. Ichinomiya and Asagiri in the center of the front row. I’m at the end of the back row.
– Humans, why do you want to form an alliance with Arzheim?
It’s the same question as before.
– We are not humans from this world. We can’t return to our original world without defeating the Demon King Hellshaft and going through the Hell’s Gate in the Demon King’s Castle Infermia. But Hellander is powerful… it’s difficult to gain victory by ourselves. But if we can borrow the strength of the elf country──
– I see… it does sound like that.
The Queen said with cold eyes.
– We can’t form an alliance. Go back to Balgaea.
– Eh? P-please wait! I haven’t said e──
The surprised Ichinomiya refused to back down, but the Queen turned a deaf ear to him.
– You think we elves are like tools.
– You are wrong! You elves have a tense relationship with the Dark Elves, the neighboring country, right? There’s also a dark elf corps under one of Hellshaft’s subordinates! So, there’s no doubt that Hellshaft will eventually bare his fangs at this country! That’s why, and while we have time──
– If that is the case, we only need to take action once danger has increased. Allied forces aren’t limited to you alone. There are other races such as dwarves, and mercenaries aren’t a problem. Now, Arzheim hasn’t fallen into a crisis to the point we have to fight.
– Ku…
I chuckled to myself in my heart while looking vexed. Their reason could have been understood if heard normally, but since the information I blew into her in advance got in the way, she feels excessively suspicious of us.
Exodia Exodus’s AI is excellent. Particularly, the Elf Queen Ulriel, she was as sharp as a human. Then, surely——
– Please wait!
Asagiri came forward. Immediately a guard ran up to her in and thrust a spear at her.
– We want to return to our country. That is our main reason. But! It’s not just that. I can’t forgive the Demon King Hellshaft!
The Queen fixedly stared at Asagiri. Did she have an interest in her?
– The Demon King uses Hellander to cause destruction and chaos throughout the Balgaea continent. But I don’t understand great things such as justice or for the sake of the world. But he destroyed the city of Caldart and killed innocent people for no reason! I can’t forgive that!
Tears welled up in the eyes of Asagiri.
– And the Demon King uses despicable means, disdaining everybody. He plays with people’s hearts, and enjoys himself tormenting others… I can never forgive such a being!
Asagiri’s eyes become blurred with tears. A line of tears ran down the cheeks from the eyes shining brilliantly.
The queen seemed to sigh slightly. Certainly, the story of Asagiri touches one’s heart. It gouges my heart. But that doesn’t apply to the Queen──,
– Your heart doesn’t seem to lie.
──What?
– Certainly, the Demon King’s threat grows day by day. That is what I feel. However, and because of that… It’s too early for Arzheim to move to defeat the Demon King. I look after the lives of all the elves in this country. I can’t afford to take careless actions.
Arisugawa bent himself forward with a face that looked like he was thinking too hard.
– B-but! Ernes-san, whom we met in Sandiano, said! If it’s us then… we could fight together.
The pupils of the Queen seemed to sway to a slight degree.
– Ernes? That girl…?
But the Queen rapidly put her iron mask-like face back.
– Such a lie will not help you.
– It is not a lie. Queen-sama.
A clear, beautiful, sweet and cold voice that sounded familiar.
Her cloak and blonde hair wave in the audience room, which she enters gallantly. It was Ernes whom I met in Sandiano.
– Ernes… you did the reconnaissance of Hellandia then.
– A general investigation has been settled. And I am worried about these people.
Saying so, she smiled, staring at Arisugawa, Leonhardt and me.
– Please leave it to me. I am not saying something like mobilizing the whole army. It does not matter if I am put in charge of one soldier. Please allow the subjugation of the Demon King Hellshaft!
Ernes kneeled before the Queen and bowed deeply.
Actually, I could say that only two minutes have passed. But it felt like time was running out as if feeling overwhelmed. And the Queen got up from the throne abruptly.
– We elves form an alliance with humans here.
– Oh!
2A, and even the elven authorities raised their voices.
– Thank you very much!
The 2A lot rushed over Asagiri who thanked in tears.
The handsome elf young man holds out his hand to Ichinomiya.
– We are comrades from now on. I am counting on you. My name is Glion.
Ichinomiya showed a really happy-looking smile on his face and grasped back the extended hand.
– Likewise! I’m Ichinomiya Akira. Nice to meet you.
The Queen’s calm orders had an effect on both excited armies.
– Can I speak now? Both armies will now work together to exterminate Hellander and take Infermia. We will take down the country called Hellandia, and…
The Queen’s half-open eyes opened wide.
– Defeat the Demon King Hellshaft!
Oooooooooooooooooooooooh! A war cry was raised.
──Crap. It was only a bit more… a bit more until the breakdown. But Asagiri moved the Queen’s heart. The appearance of Ernes became a decisive factor in shaking up the Queen.
I glared at Ernes.
To think she would appear here, this was outside my calculations.
– You, over there.
The Queen’s cold voice cuts through the audience room full of cheers.
– Huh?
The Queen was pointing at me. I see, it seems she did hear the advice I said. Good, good, otherwise, I’d be troubled. Otherwise, the next measure couldn’t be prepared.
– You… hmm?
The Queen looked hard at me. Hey, what’s wrong? Just say that I’ll remain here, alright? What happened?
But the Queen kept staring at me, as if her eyes could see through my heart.
Hey, don’t tell me. That she can really read my heart?
In addition, the beats of my heart gets faster again and I get nervous.
– You are… never mind.
The Queen put an end to her words again as if thinking over something.
– You will stay here for a while. There is something I want to confirm.
The 2A lot was surprised at that statement.
– What does that mean?
– Why Doumeguri-kun?
The Queen replied coldly to the questions of Ichinomiya and Asagiri.
– Guarantees are needed in alliances. We will take care of this person so that you do not betray us or misconduct.
After that, Ichinomiya and Asagiri refused to back down to release me, but it was to no avail. Ernes convinced them, saying, 「Staying here is rather safe」. But the rest of 2A have eyes as if they were saying “this person dares to do something so clever by themselves”. Arisugawa was a little worried though.
What worries me is that Shizukuishi was staring at me with a gaze that felt as if shaving off a person’s body. That person. May be suspicious of something.
For that reason, I’m in a solitary cell now.
Huh? Wasn’t I in a stylish resort hotel until yesterday? Isn’t this cruel? Well, even though I say solitary cell, it’s a stylish room made of stone. The bed is comfortable too.
As I peek outside through the window with iron bars, I can see the port. 2A’s ship anchored there had already disappeared.
The number of elven ships sailing together with it also gave an estimate of the approximate number of soldiers. They have my thanks for imprisoning me in a nice room. However, the ships headed for the capture of Infermia, so I can’t relax.
When I open the menu, I select the Demon King’s armor from the equipment section. In the twinkling of an eye, my body, which was the body of an average male high school student, turned into a huge body of 2.3 meters.
I put my hands on the door of my cell and put all my strength into them.
– Hmmm!
Making the sound of stones crumbling, the entire iron door was ripped off the stone wall. I gently leaned the iron door against the wall, ran down the corridor and went down the stairs.
– Hmm? Where should I go?
I was brought directly from the audience, so I couldn’t grasp the road. The structure inside the castle was complex and puzzle-like.
– It’s hard… to get out of this thing. Rather, should I destroy it to go outside?
– Please refrain from doing so.
? Uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! You surprised meeee!
– O-oh… Satanachia? You’re late, aren’t you?
Satanachia, a dark elf with white hair and brown skin, appeared from the corner of the intersection.
Satanachia had been ordered to come, following 2A Guild.
– I was ordered to follow them… but to think they would come to a place like this.
It was unusual for Satanachia to have a disgusted face.
– The humans and the elves were planning to work together, so I needed to confirm the results. As expected, those guys conspired together. We also need to take countermeasures immediately.
First of all, we have to get out of here… Where is the exit?
– This way.
Satanachia stood in front of me and started walking.
She knows well this maze-like path.
I followed her despite being impressed, and certainly, the exit was there. It’s a narrow rear entrance where only one person can exit at a time. Fortunately, there are no guards.
– The ship is hidden in a rocky area through the forest.
– Got it. Let’s go.
We ran out of the castle at once.
──!!
A flash of light flashed.
– Kuh!
A sharp sword scratched my chest and sparks scattered.
– Be careful, Satanachia!
I kicked the ground and made my giant body rotate in the air and landed. Satanachia is already holding a bow and pointing an arrow at the opponent that came attacking. It’s one enemy. She loosely hung her sword and stared at her.
What’s going on?
Satanachia didn’t try to fire the arrow while drawing the bow. The opponent who cut at me approaches.
– Satanachia… how dare you to come back.
– … Ernes.
Are they acquaintances?
Ernes examined Satanachia many times, making sure to trace her from head to toe.
– Are you going to pollute the land and air of Arzheim… with that repulsive appearance of yours again?
– …
Satanachia’s gaze became grim.
– How despicable. By becoming the Demon King’s underling, you are now involved in treacherous things!
– Ernes… I──
– Don’t say my name!
Ernes shouted as if spitting her pain out.
– Don’t say my name with the same face and the same voice as Satanachia!
Ernes grimaces in hatred and readies her sword.
– Satanachia is dead. You are a demon hidden in Satanachia’s skin!
Ernes kicked the ground.
– Perish! You demon!
She approaches Satanachia at an amazing speed.
– … Kuh!
Satanachia swung her beloved bow Black Heart Shooter. Then the bow transforms into a sword in an instant. At the same time as it changed, she confronted Ernes’s sword.
– Satanachiaaaa!
She makes the sword rotate and rejects Satanachia’s sword. Then she tried to slash at her right away in the other direction. Satanachia bends herself backward, dodging the sharp sword with just a few millimeters away from being slashed.
Kuh… that elf Ernes is strong. Probably as strong as Satanachia. If the battle drags on, all sorts of troublesome things will──
– Over there!
– They escaped!
When I thought so, I heard loud and tensed voices from afar. This is problematic.
– Satanachia! Ignore that person! Let’s escape!
When she heard my voice, Satanachia lowered her sword. Seeing that, Ernes distorts her mouth.
– What’s wrong? Are you ready to be killed?
But Satanachia stared at Ernes with her usual cool eyes.
– Ernes, it is as you say.
– Humph… what now?
– The Satanachia you know is dead. The one that it is here now is the dark elf Satanachia. Hellandia’s Dark Elf Corps Commander, Hellzekter Satanachia.
Ernes opened her eyes wide in surprise.
– Next time, come to kill me seriously, Ernes. Otherwise… you will die.
Satanachia left those words with her, turned on her heels and ran. She ran, instantly passing right next to me.
Ernes glared at her retreating figure with a demon-like expression in her eyes.
– Satanachiaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!
I ran at full speed as I listened to Ernes shout on my back that felt as if spitting blood.
I follow Satanachia through the forest and jump down a cliff. As Satanachia said, the ship coming near the steep cliff was there.
When we landed on the ship’s deck, the ship leaned greatly. Satanachia is already raising the sails and preparing to set sail. The ship begins to move slowly, leaving the shore.
– This is a serious matter, isn’t it? Satanachia.
– Yes… there is no problem.
Holding the rope, Satanachia stares at the front of the ship. I didn’t know what to say or what was the best to say to that back of hers.
Satanachia… what happened in your past?
Am I strangely establishing the past of Satanachia now? I didn’t think about that.
The inn in Sandiano was a small hotel by the sea. Its appearance and interior are stylish and comfortable, but the rooms are small and there aren’t many of them. The best they could do was to prepare one large room per sex. You know, this is so like a school trip.
Busujima and Miyakoshi wanted to stay at a more gorgeous hotel, but that was reproved by Asagiri and Hinazawa because they didn’t know how much the expenses would be from now on.
Well, I more or less get Hinazawa, but Asagiri is surprisingly detailed in that sort of thing, she’s dependable, huh. Is she really a rich Ojou-sama? That’s what I think.
This hotel is a disgrace for the gal duo, but it seems the open air bath is to their joy. Moreover, it’s a very resort-like measure called ocean view.
That’s why I’m taking my clothes off at the dressing room in the large public bath alone. Because when I came back, no one was in the room. I asked the NPC at the reception of the hotel and it seemed they just went to the town. Thinking that they had left me behind again, I felt down, but that didn’t happen. Since this didn’t mean I had to move out yet, I limited myself to heal my tired body peacefully. And if I’m going to take a bath, doing it alone is much better. I’m not good at taking a bath with other people on school trips. I mean, doesn’t everyone hate it? Why do you have to take a bath with others? There’s nothing more unpleasant than that. And now that I think calmly about that, isn’t it gross to be naked with other men and submerged in the same hot water? People who aren’t very close to one are naked and at a very close distance. Taking a bath together like this is surely gay, isn’t it? A gay pick-up bath, right?
I dropped the towel and opened the bathroom door.
Yeah, I don’t want to take a bath with those bastards. But if it’s with a beautiful girl like this, it’s a different story.
– …
Yes, a beautiful girl like this…
The spacious public bath was full of sense of liberation. There’s a pool-like bathtub beyond the oblong washing area. And beyond that there are no walls, the sea and the blue sky continue. It looks as if the hot water of the bath continues to the sea as it is.
In the bathtub where steam was rising up slightly, there was a figure staring at the sea, standing up. And she turned her head to the sound of the door opened by me.
That pose is of a beautiful woman that certainly turns to look behind. Water drops shine on the glasses on her face. Her black hair falling out of the tied-up hair is sexy. The black hair sticks to the white skin, making it more obscene. The water drops slipping off her skin flow from the back to the valley of the buttocks as if being absorbed by them. The skin that is lightly dyed pink with hot water is cute and lascivious. The upper body was turned around, it had modest yet beautiful breasts showing a sideways appearance.
This is my third time worshipping this slender and delicate body, isn’t it?
But two of those instances aren’t my fault.
– Wha… wha… wha.
Shizukuishi Non was making her mouth and body quiver. And crouched in the bathtub as if falling.
– This perveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeert!!
– W-wait, what am I doing now!? Why is Shizukuishi here!?
– H-how can you brazenly come into the women’s bath and say that!?
– No! Back at you, you unashamedly go into the men’s bath! Are you a female molester Is this an AV!?
The face of Shizukuishi turns bright red with shame and anger.
– Hurry up and leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeave!
I hurriedly succeeded in running away to the dressing room.
– Wha!?
The dressing room looked different than before. The location of the washbasin and mirror is reversed, and there are all sorts of cosmetics on the washbasin. Those weren’t there before.
– Fuck, what the hell is going on!?
It seems this is really the women’s bath. Did I see an illusion?
I wrap a towel around my waist and get out into the hallway, barely covering my crotch and butt. Then I rushed to the men’s bath, to the door lined up next to it and that I had entered moments ago. Unlike the women’s dressing room, the layout is reversed and no cosmetics are placed in it. This is definitely the view I saw before getting in the bath.
– What the hell was that…?
I opened the door to the public bath as I complained.
There, Shizukuishi Non was standing in the washing room completely naked, wiping her hair.
– W-whaa…h!?
– Wha… wha…?
Shizukuishi glances at me with a face that is about to cry with her mouth still opened.
And her face blushed strongly.
– Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
W-wait! Didn’t you willingly show yourself totally naked to me some time ago!? Moreover, in a grand and embarrassing appearance called naked cloak!? I want to say that, but I can’t!
Shizukuishi twisted her body and hid her chest with one hand and her crotch with the other.
– You’re that kind of person! In the sea before as well! Do you bear a grudge against me!?
A mountain of grudge in fact! But I can’t say that!
– Wait, listen to me! Certainly, when I went outside, it was in the dressing room of the women’s bath! But I got out of the corridor for a moment and entered the men’s bath! I’m sure of that, believe me!
– If you want me to believe you, look away!
Oops! I had my eyes fixed on her.
I turned my back to Shizukuishi with teary eyes, as if turning where I am.
– … So, what are you going to state in your will?
– Wait a minute! You didn’t believe me!?
– I just said I couldn’t trust the excuses of a person who deliberately stares at a naked person, I didn’t say that I would trust you if you looked away.
Certainly it’s as you say! At that time, the door opened in front of me.
– Nonnon, is there a reason why you shouted just──
It was Asagiri.
I was seen by Asagiri of all people.
Asagiri hardened as she made her smile froze. And she blushed in a twinkle.
– Ah… I’m! I’m sorry!
– You’re wrong! This is not what you think, Asagiri! This is!
Making her eyes go round and round in her bright red face, Asagiri said as if shouting, covering her eyes with her palms.
– Y-you two are a-already at that point, I better get going!
– Y-you are, you’re wrong, Ririko. Calm down and think calmly. Think realistically, do you truly think I’m going to take a bath with raw garbage like Doumeguri-kun?
– Y-yeah! He’s in front of you!
Guwaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Shizukuishiiiii, can’t you make a better excuseeeeee!?
– I’m really sorry!
Asagiri escaped at high speed while panicking. She returned immediately and said, 「Go slowly」and gently closed the door.
And the sound of her footsteps becoming more distant are heard.
A, Asagiriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!
I lamented in my mind.
After that, I desperately explained to Asagiri and conducted a demonstration experiment together to confirm that this mysterious phenomenon had certainly occurred.
– I jumped to a wrong conclusion, didn’t I? Sorry.
She said so blushing and hung her head.
– T-that was my first time… seeing that sort of thing. I was shaking.
But Asagiri-san. There was nothing like that.
When I thought that it didn’t turn into something serious, I was kidnapped by the troop of men led by Ichinomiya after that.
– Can you explain us what was all that?
I was asked that with an incredible serious face.
Then I got stuck with doing a second demonstration experiment. By the way, Arisugawa played the role of a woman. Anyway, why is there a bug like this? It’s in development so it can’t be helped, but it’s scary because… there are probably more things like this.
It seems that this didn’t happen last night, but for the time being, the bath will be used in turns, and with this and that, it was already evening. The girls come to the men’s large room and a meeting is held.
Everyone naturally understands that Ichinomiya and Asagiri sitting by the window are in the chairmen’s seats. We sit, scattering around on the wooden floor with those two as the center.
I was a little away from the circle and sat a certain distance, away from everyone. But there’s a person farther away than me. Only Shizukuishi stood, leaning against the wall. Asagiri gave her a shout, but she didn’t move, it was hopeless.
Each person was chatting, but when Ichinomiya started the debate, everyone stopped talking and lent an ear to Ichinomiya.
– This is the question brought up in the discussion last night. I’d like to confirm everyone’s willingness to buy a ship.
After all, this was the topic they were talking about. What other one would it be?
– I’ve decided to buy one! This is the Age of Exploration! Let’s learn from the Vikings, my ancestors, and storm the seven seas!
He’s wrong in so many ways, but I don’t care what he says anymore.
– Why not? I agree. Cruising on a ship is really nice.
– That’s true. Ageha also agrees. What about marine activities?
I want to buy a fishing boat and break their dreams, but I want to make them desist from buying a ship if possible. I cannot afford to give any more powerful equipment or items to 2A anymore, and I’m worried about the elf Ernes’s words.
『My name is Ernes. If you happen to cross the ocean, please go to Arzheim once. There may be ways for us to fight together with humans』
If I assume that 2A Guild and the elves have really formed an alliance, things will get difficult again. The settlement for that will be in three weeks. I don’t want that trouble to awaken. Above all, it’s difficult to come and go to Infermia. According to Aikawa-san, teleport is limited to the same continent. In other words, it will be difficult for me to use Doumeguri Kakeru and Hellshaft properly and freely. In that sense, I want to prevent expanding their field of activities.
– Indeed, I agree as well. After all, if we don’t widen our actions, we’ll have no future.
Yuuki mutters in a low voice as if following Hinazawa.
– M-me too…
– Well, I guess I also agree?
Well, many of them have approved, so Yamada seems to go along with it.
– Oh! I have no choice but to go there. I’m a sea man!
When did you become a sea man, Ougiya? Weren’t you from Saitama?
– I’m really excited about cruising, but… I’m a little scared. Elf-onee-san says there are disputes between races on the other continent.
Yeah, well done, Arisugawa.
Asagiri thought a little and nodded lightly.
– Yeah. I agree with you… but ships are expensive, aren’t they?
When it comes to budget, everyone groans as if being troubled. However, Ichinomiya said carelessly.
– That’s right. However, if we sell the materials dropped by the Adamite Golem we defeated before, we can buy one. That’s why everyone needs to agree.
Nevertheless, and speaking of materials, Ichinomiya distributed the rewards for defeating it with everyone. And well, we can’t return to reality holding them or convert them into money. I dare say if Ichinomiya wants to buy one, nobody would say no.
– What do you think, Shizukuishi-san?
Ichinomiya talks to Shizukuishi standing close to the wall. However, Shizukuishi kept staring forward and diagonally downward with a grim face.
– Going to a continent without Hellshaft-sama…! The chances of meeting him will be reduced, right?
She was muttering dangerous things. Nobody will earnestly ask her something else, so why would I fuss about that?
Asagiri showed a dry laugh to Shizukuishi who didn’t reply no matter how long she waited.
Ichinomiya also folded his arms with a bitter smile.
– Well, a lot of you agree… and what about you, Doumeguri?
– Eh?
– Eh, isn’t it obvious? Tell us your opinion, Doumeguri.
Well, I was surprised they asked for my opinion. Moreover, everyone looks at me. Stop, it feels like you’re taking my life! I feel like my life shortens when seen by others.
– Oh… I see.
But what is this? They naturally bring up the subject to me and wait for my reply. It’s like I’m a normal class member, don’t you agree? Until now, that wasn’t the case. My presence is like the air, the standard of 2A is to act as if I weren’t there, with no intention to ignore me.
Why is it like this now!? I’m troubled! If I don’t get them to think in the same way even if I’m not here, this will get hard, it will be difficult to move.
But now I have no choice but to express my opinion.
– … Certainly, since this is an RPG, it’s time to go further, to another continent.
But ships are a bad idea.
There are other reasons besides the alliance with the elves and teleportation being unusable. Infermia is surrounded by a huge lake all around. But, in fact, it’s an inland sea connected to the sea.
If we enter the inland sea, it’s very likely that we’ll easily be allowed to land near Infermia. These guys obtaining a ship is like thrusting a knife at my throat.
I gave a look at everyone, seemingly worried.
– Opening new frontiers is certainly attractive, but danger comes with it. Probably there are things we don’t know and monsters we haven’t seen.
– I see, Doumeguri is the type that is cautious, huh.
Ichinomiya nodded, looking collected.
– But hasn’t it been the same all this time? Is there any reason to be on guard again?
Rather than arguing, Ichinomiya felt like asking a question calmly.
– Until now, it was like being compulsorily thrown out to the field. But we can choose whether to cross the sea or not. We don’t know what will happen on the sea, nor do we know well what else is on the other continent.
Miyakoshi, who was sexily sitting at ease with her legs out to one side, admired him as if fawning on him.
– It has been like this so far, so it’s not that much different?
– It means there are too many unknown things than before. For example, we’ve travelled domestically so far, and now we’re going overseas. Although we can call this the “starting region”, is there a sense of security when travelling within the same country? Even if you say that the culture is different or the customs are different, they’re of no importance. But that’s not the case overseas.
– An overseas travel!? Isn’t that great!?
The simpleton Busujima held onto it with sparkling eyes. Miyakoshi gets excited as well. Damn, was the example that bad?
– Yo! That’s good! But I can’t, I’ll be deported to Germany!
Pack him and send him back.
– The hell!? Moreover, cruising is the best, isn’t it!? A travel to the southern island!
The stupid Ougiya shouts loudly in excitement. I talked to everyone to change the flow of the conversation somehow.
– But we should be careful. It’s dangerous to keep talking and getting carried away. The sea isn’t necessarily safe. What kind of monsters a──
– The hell? Now it’s bad for us to take on an adventure?
– Eh? No, that’s not what I…
Hinazawa, who lie down on the floor, raised her face.
– In any case, we won’t reach the ending without continuing the story, will we?
Damn, she suddenly had the nerve to mention the explanation as the game. Yuuki, who’s sitting next to her, doesn’t look impressed.
Before I reply back, Asagiri, who’s sitting on the floor, grasping her knees, showered questions on me.
– That’s right. The fact that the ship and the elf appeared here means that we can go to the elf country by ship. Isn’t that right, Doumeguri-kun?
Kuh… I’m being suspected for going too much against the idea. Isn’t that bad? I stared at the eyes of the pure Asagiri. They are as beautiful as a clear lake. But at the bottom of the lake there is a feeling that has settled like mud. The return to the original world and her obsession with the Demon King Hellshaft must be swirling in the deepest part where the light doesn’t reach.
The sword that kills me with a single blow is hidden in Asagiri’s item list.
– Aren’t you actually a minion of the Demon King?
──!?
Ougiya said, grinning.
Miyakoshi joined him with a light tone.
– Ah! That may be. You disappear often, which means you’re working as a subordinate of the Demon King? Or maybe you’re the Demon King?
My heart rings like a bell.
This is bad, calm down.
Even if I think so, they can tell that my expression is stiff.
Of course, both Ougiya and Miyakoshi aren’t talking about it seriously.
Arisugawa cutely puts his finger on his cheek and tries to recall something.
– Come to think of it… Doumeguri-kun came just after the siege of Infermia’s Castle, didn’t he?
– Maybe it was around that?
Yamada does an “I don’t care” interjection. Your statement is almost pointless, so be silent.
– Now that you mention it, we actually saw the Demon King for the first time during that castle siege.
Hinazawa muttered with a certain air that said “for some reason or other”.
Ichinomiya listened to everyone’s exchanges with an amazed-looking smile. His true feelings appear to be saying 『Yare yare, getting excited with a joke like that… I want to proceed with the topic of discussion, but everyone seems to be having fun so it can’t be helped』
No! You have to take control at moments like this, goddammit!
Asagiri cuts into the conversation, pouting her lips.
– Jeez, everyone is getting carried away. There’s no way that’s true.
– Yeah, Doumeguri doesn’t have what it takes to be the Demon King.
– Yeah, I’d say he’s a subordinate orc at best?
– Ahaha I get that ♪, but yeah, he gives off that vibe.
Busujima and Miyakoshi laugh together.
– Do we try… using Holy Grave?
──Eh?
– Huh?
The inside of the large room fell completely silent.
It was a lazy way of speaking, but it definitely reached everyone’s ears. But nobody knew what to say at first.
Yuuki, Uiko?
That’s unexpected. To think this girl would make such a drastic statement.
When I turn a gaze of surprise at her, Yuuki looks away as if she was scared. The face I saw for a moment is unmistakably a face shaking from fear.
Yuuki mutters with a hoarse voice, her eyes still averted.
– I-if we write… the name of Doumeguri-kun on that sword and slash at him with it… Then Doumeguri-kun can prove that he’s not the Demon King… right?
──Wha!?
Moreover, she had the nerve to make doubly sure!
Certain, Yuuki was timid and coward. But unlike Busujima, she didn’t seem to be that scared of the dungeon in Rummel Mountains. Perhaps what she fears the most are humans. Surely she’s afraid of me now.
And because of her cowardice, her defensive instinct is extremely strong. To get rid of her fear, she’s willing to even torture others in a witch trial.
Hinazawa, a relatively close friend of hers, also gave a slightly stiffened smile.
– Hey, Uiko. Unexpectedly saying so is…
– It’s… to be certain of it.
Asagiri also said like she was confused.
– Y-you can’t doubt a classmate like that.
However, Yuuki persists.
– I-it’s okay… just poke the fingertip…
It’s not okay at all!! What the hell is wrong with this woman!? Only at times like this, her audacity and persistence get awfully strong. If this keeps going, they’re really going to make me do the test. I have to do something──
– Stop this nonsense.
A cold voice resounded.
——Shizukuishi!?
Shizukuishi, who was leaning against the wall, comes to us, swaying. Her severe gaze is as usual, but it’s not just that, she makes killing intent drift from her whole body.
She stands in front of Yuuki and glares at her with frozen-like eyes.
– *Eek*…
That was enough for Yuuki to have teary eyes.
– I don’t know what you’re afraid of, but think calmly. Demon King Hellshaft is an NPC no matter how you look at it. It’s hard to think that someone is inside of it. To say nothing of Doumeguri-kun, right? That’s impossible.
– E-excuse me…
Shizukuishi continues to mercilessly attack Yuuki who is trembling.
– You’re telling me that a person like Doumeguri-kun who can’t imagine standing on top of others and who’s an aloof and an unsociable person without an ounce of popularity or appeal is the Demon King? Don’t make me laugh.
Laughter leaks from all around. Hey, guys. Is that something to laugh about?
– I don’t think it’s a sane idea to consume a valuable item like Holy Grave for such an insignificant thing. This is an item that everyone struggled to get, right? So just for the sake of reducing your baseless anxiety is──
Hinazawa intervened as she gave a wry smile.
– W-we get it, we get it, Shizukuishi-san. Isn’t that right, Uiko?
Yuuki was completely overwhelmed by Shizukuishi and couldn’t mutter anymore, she just shook her hanging head to the left and right.
Shizukuishi turned her face away violently and went back to the wall she was leaning against.
– Truly as expected of Nonnon.
Asagiri says to her back.
– Huh?
Looking back over her shoulder, Shizukuishi turns her head with an intense look in her eyes.
– Because Nonnon… Shizukuishi-san is really worried about Doumeguri-kun.
Asagiri smiled like a goddess.
– … What are you talking about?
Shizukuishi, who made the already bad look in her eyes aggravate to a worse level, said as if spitting out.
– Why should I worry about food scraps?
– Food… huh?
Asagiri blinked without understanding the meaning.
– Simply put, I’m disgusted that someone like Doumeguri-kun is being treated as Hellshaft-sa… as the Demon King. Stop misunderstanding.
Shizukuishi immediately left the room, leaving 「I’ll leave the decision to everyone」with us.
Thanks to this, a delicate mood remained in the room. It’s a kind of a talent to take her leave, leaving such a bad impression behind.
However, this saved me. I can’t stop them from buying a ship anymore. At least the after-treatment will have to be done successfully. I cleared my throat and bowed my head lightly.
– … I’m sorry. It’s not like I wanted to complain or bother everyone. From now on, even if you don’t ask my opinion──
– What are you talking about, Doumeguri?
Ichinomiya gave a broad grin.
– It’s so nice that Doumeguri has that role. I’d do the same, but everyone gets relatively carried away, no? So it’s nice to have someone who would give objective opinions like Doumeguri.
– … Ichinomiya.
All members of 2A turn around and look at me. What is reflected in their eyes? Is it surprise, envy or jealousy? What do they think of the King giving a certificate of value to an aloof who had no value to society?
Asagiri turns a smile full of compassion and parental affection to me.
Please no, not that face.
The expectations, deep affection and friendship of those around me and all the relationships are a heavy burden. They may be worthwhile. But they are too heavy for me to carry on my back.
I can’t meet others’ expectations.
Everyone will be absolutely disappointed.
If I get along with them on the surface, but they know what’s at the bottom, they’ll think「so that was all that he got, huh」.
I’ll be a being not worth worrying about, and everyone will go away from me.
Even if I frantically work hard so that doesn’t happen, for what sake would that be?
Why do I have to be tied to that?
I want to be carefree.
I want to be free from everything.
With that in mind, the meeting went on and came to a conclusion.
They decided to buy a ship tomorrow.
A week later, I was in the middle of the ocean.
The unending, admiringly beautiful blue sea. The weather is nice, I have no worries about the voyage so far. The sunlight rains incessantly and brilliantly; to put it bluntly, is hot. The rays of the sun are strong in the sea near the equator. However, the sea breeze feels so good, it’s surprisingly easy to spend time by getting in the shade.
Others will do so by talking and playing games in the cabin. I’m the only one on the deck. It’s good, this feeling that is reserved to me. Until recently, I played in the water when the ship stopped, if not, I was in the cabin.
There were no monsters in the sea as I thought they would be. No, maybe there are, but we haven’t been attacked yet.
We immediately went to buy a ship the day after the meeting. The budget obtained from selling the items dropped by the Adamite Golem was 300,000 sol. Or 30 million yen. It’s truly a shame that we can’t convert it into money.
We all went to the harbor and found the man from the shipyard who had a talk with Ernes, and we started the negotiations. 300,000 sol was a very large sum of money, but it was surprisingly difficult on a budget for a ship that could carry 12 people and sail for a long time.
However, to think capable persons would play an active role here.
– We’re buying with spot cash though? Isn’t it expensive? Another store had it cheaper though. Oh, not having that option is kind of troubling.
– Ageha is troubled. Hey, please, do something about it, just a bit more.
Until then, the person stubbornly kept the price as it was, but once Busujima and Miyakoshi started the negotiations, he rapidly grew weak. And they managed to procure the ship within the budget somehow.
To think that the gal duo had trade skills. I thought they were useless, but they were helpful in a situation like this.
… I mean, they are. Their ability is a skill that combined both shamelessness and impudence that persistently pressed the stores for price reductions. Let’s name it Oba-chan skill.
So, the ship we got was a large yacht with a total length of over 20 meters. It would really be difficult to operate a real ship, but these applied game-like simple operations. Still, it took three days until we became able to cruise by ship. We practiced for a while near Sandiano, and finally set sail.
As I leaned against the handrail of the ship, I looked at the magnificent sea stretching on my path.
I run my fingers in the air and open the menu. Nothing happens when I select teleport and choose a destination. It’s no surprise that Aikawa-san’s words seemed correct.
Now that it has come to this, all I can do is buy time. I’ll spend the next two weeks on the Logress continent and wait for Santa──X to be applied.
I fixed my eyes on the stern of the ship. I can no longer see Sandiano, which is supposed to be beyond that point. We go along and near the equator, running parallel to the west, below Balgaea continent. We pass under the westernmost tip of the Balgaea continent and the Logress continent was there. The aim is Arzheim on the Logress continent. The country where the elves live.
– You were here, Doumeguri.
The door to the deck opened, and Ichinomiya turned up.
For some reason, I feel that he has come to talk to me often lately. I don’t like that trend too much.
– Can you take a lot at this for a moment?
He sat on the couch on the deck and spread a piece of paper on the table. With just a glance at the paper fluttering in the wind, I knew what it was.
– A map, huh?
I sat opposite him.
– Yeah. I obtained it in Sandiano. This seems to be a map of this world.
That’s right. It was in the development data and in Infermia.
– What do you think when you see this, Doumeguri?
I thought how I should answer.
– There are many unknown continents and islands. Even Balgaea is full of unexplored territories.
– That’s right. This world is much larger than we thought. But is there anything else to worry about?
Ichinomiya seems to be trying my reaction. I sigh in my mind.
– With the exception of land route, I think it’s possible to march into Infermia.
Ichinomiya leaned forward as if getting a bit excited.
– You think so too?
Ichinomiya points at the area around Infermia, the east of Balgaea continent shown on the map.
– We walked from Caldart towards Infermia, so we didn’t even notice this in the slightest. But in fact, Infermia had a terrain as if surrounded by a huge lake. And this lake is connected to the sea.
– Inland sea, huh. If we disembark there, we’ll be able to establish a camp very close to Infermia, and depending on the situation, there’s also the possibility of directly marching into it by ship. We can outsmart Hellander and we can use all sorts of means, even methods of attacking.
– The problem is when the next Castle Siege Quest will occur. It’s too late to start preparations after the quest has triggered, and we can’t use the NPC’s forces unless we’re in a Castle Siege Quest.
I thought with my arms folded.
What to do?
I think it’s good to relax in the elf country or look around other continents and islands, but Ichinomiya’s character is difficult. Rather, it might be profitable to say something that sounds good and make him challenge an impossible fight.
As I was thinking about that, Ichinomiya began to talk.
– I’m thinking of forming an alliance with the elves.
For an instant, I felt I was attacked by an enemy by surprise. I surely must have had a stupid face.
– … Alliance? Elves?
– That’s right. According to Arisugawa and Leon, the elves seem to be friendly to humans. At any rate, it’s because of that we’re going to the elf country. We’ll give it a try because we have nothing to lose. We’ll propose an alliance with humans and cooperate to fight against Hellandia.
Alliance, friendly… I see. Now that I think about it, this really seemed to be the plan this guy thought about.
As I say so to myself, Ichinomiya folded his arms looking complicated.
– But… is that kind of thing really possible? I don’t have confidence in myself. That’s why I wanted to hear Doumeguri’s opinion.
I deposited my back on the couch and smiled in a posture as if throwing my chest out.
– Well, I’m an aloof, so those kinds of personal relationships are… but since they are elves, I don’t know how my relationship with them will be. If Ichinomiya says he has no confidence in himself, then I can only say it’s impossible for me.
Ichinomiya said, 「Is that so」and bit his lips.
– … But the elf I met in Sandiano was afraid that their neighbors, the Dark Elves, would form an alliance with Hellandia. In other words, it appears as if forming an alliance with another country or race is a possible option for them. And if the danger increases, the elves should want a partner to work with. If we bring the crisis in Hellandia to their attention and show that we have concrete ways to win… Then an alliance can be formed.
Ichinomiya’s expression became steep while listening to my story.
– But how do we present a concrete way to win…
– What are you saying? You just said it, didn’t you?
Ichinomiya opened his eyes as if suddenly realizing.
– A surprise attack by ship──right?
Ichinomiya closed his eyes. The salty sea breeze waves as if playing with Ichinomiya’s smooth and dry hair. After a short time, he opened his eyes and said.
– Let’s do it.
Ichinomiya grabbed the map and stood up.
– I’ll explain it to everyone. Let’s talk later.
I responded to Ichinomiya who returned to the cabin by raising my hand appropriately.
However, I certainly don’t intend to let you form an alliance so easily. I’ll disturb as much as I can.
I stared at the stern of the ship. White waves follow the sea that came passing by like footsteps. Are those following the traces satisfactorily?
The ship of 2A Guild travels through the sea enveloped by fog.
– I can’t see anything.
Shizukuishi scorned at Asagiri who muttered so, sounding anxious.
– I’d say it feels very bleak.
– Jeez… don’t say weird things.
We should be around the moment the Logress Continent is visible. However, the fog that drifts from the sea like steam has left us without visibility and we can’t see a thing even 100 meters away.
– But there’s really the danger of being stranded… let’s go as slowly as possible.
When Ichinomiya gives those instructions, Ougiya, Leonhardt, and Yamada lower the sails.
– Hmm? Huh? I can’t see anything?
When Busujima strains her eyes in our direction of movement, Miyakoshi also does the same.
– Oh, it’s true. There’s some kind of shadow… ueeh!?
Huge silhouettes emerges from the thick fog.
– This is……
The scenery where nothing was seen until now suddenly starts to change color. The huge silhouettes were the shadows of mountains. Pointed mountains with many peaks. And below them there’s a deep forest covered with tall trees.
There’s a white veil-like haze covering the forest.
And a warm orange light dimly shining in it. The light that shines through the gaps in the trees is clearly an artificial brilliance. And a lot of lights wash ashore before that. “That” is a shining wave of light as if drawing a coastline. The foreshore is dimly glowing green.
I look at the lights of the beautiful forest hazed by the fog and the sea interweave, and finally the harbor came in sight. There were people standing in a row at the edge.
They are beautiful knights with long golden hair and pointed ears.
This seems to be Arzheim, the elf country.
– Where are you from!?
One of the elves, a young man with a beautiful appearance, asked. Ichinomiya bends himself forward and replies.
– We’re humans from Caldart, Balgaea! I’d like to intermediate with an elf representative!
The elf youth whispered something to other elf. Is he asking for advice?
The discussion ended and the elf youth raised his face, turned to us and shouted.
– An audience with the Queen will be considered! Dock the ship for now and follow us!
– Thank you!
We took the mooring rope thrown by the elf and brought the ship to the pier. And when we landed safely, we walked, following the young man. We are escorted… rather, we advanced, being seen in all directions by elven knights. I feel like a criminal being escorted.
The elf town continued along the sea from the harbor. The lively image is certainly of a port city, but it doesn’t have fancy signs or guys who attract people to entertainment events in loud voices.
It’s very quiet and elegant. That’s my first impression.
The people are mostly young men and women. There are children, but they aren’t noisy or running. Their manners are very elegant and refined. There may be differences in status and wealth, but everyone looked stylish and rich. The knights who escort us are noble to a certain extent.
The city itself has a calm atmosphere and is full of grace as if matching the people. The buildings are all white, with sharp roofs and narrow pillars. The carvings added on the buildings and the patterns shaped on the walls are all delicate and beautiful, I truly don’t get tired of them.
The young man walking at the head looked back and said.
– Don’t be offended. It is extremely unusual for humans to come to Arzheim. Ordinary ships can’t get through the elf fog and continue wandering about.
This good looking man has the nerve to say something so scary without hesitation.
– But judging from appearances…
The young man glanced at Ichinomiya and Asagiri, and Leonhardt and Shizukuishi who were a bit far away.
– You, that woman and the two people in the back row are human… but I can see you are closer to elves for some reason. Is it because of that?
And then glances at me.
– Still, humans are really diverse in shape.
Hold on a second. What on earth do you mean with that?
After a short walk in the city, it turned into a forest. However, there’s no clear demarcation, the impression I have is as if the city gradually blends with the forest. The trunk of the trees gradually becomes thicker and the number of giant trees boasting amazing heights increases. After a long walk through the giant woods, a huge building with white walls emerged from the gap between the trees.
– Wow! Amazing….
Ougiya let out a surprised voice. But most of us just had their breaths taken away.
It was a fine and elegant castle with many spires. It has an appearance that feels beautiful and magnificent, appropriate for the pure and sacred elf forest. The material is a combination of white stone and crystal-like transparent stone. Despite being a big castle like this, the lightness of these materials is without a doubt one of the reasons that give an impression similar to taking off.
– Uwaaa… it’s beautiful.
Asagiri mutters mixed with a sigh.
The elf youth proudly said.
– That is the elf castle. The castle where the Queen of Arzheim lives. The Weisskrone Castle.
There are many trees standing around the castle and spiral staircases were made around their trunks. Those staircases led to huts built on stretched branches.
I see, those are hotels.
– Wait here for now. You have to wait at least a day to meet with the Queen.
– Eh? We can’t see her right away?
Ichinomiya chides Ougiya who complained.
– We come uninvited all of a sudden, making the top position of this country meet us. It’s obvious, no?
I have already assumed that waiting time.
When it was decided we would go to Arzheim, I went back to Infermia and asked questions to the Hellzekters.
『Do you know who’s the representative of Arzheim? 』
The Hellzekter, who were suddenly asked that, were bewildered for a moment, but Adra immediately replied.
『The Queen of the Elves… if I remember correctly, her name was Ulriel? 』
The sound of a cup placed on a plate resounded with a clank.
『……I am sorry』
It seems that Satanachia, who was drinking tea, put the cup on the plate with unexpected momentum.
『Satanachia. Will Ulriel concede me a meeting right away?』
『About that… It is difficult to ascertain that about the elf country』
『But, don’t you know them better than us?』
『Hmm, that is correct. Dark elves and elves are mutual enemies. It is natural to investigate the enemy in detail. Do you have any information?』
Asked as if being pressed by Grasha and Adra, Satanachia reluctantly opened her mouth.
『I do not know… but I guess she will probably meet you. Normally, you may have to wait as little as one day and as long as a week… but if we talk about Hellshaft-sama, she will meet you without having to wait』
──That was what she said. She was very detailed.
Since the waiting time is at least one day, I have to move immediately.
– Whoa, It looks like a Southeast Asian resort.
Asagiri looked up at the huge tree hotel and smiled like a child.
– Yo! Let’s go up quickly!
– Yup. Oh, there are rooms at the base too. Are those for people with fear of heights…?
I turned my back on the frolicking 2A and tried to leave without making a sound.
– Ah, Doumeguri-kun. Where are you going?
Asagiri easily spotted me and called me to stop.
– Well… I’m just going to see the area around here.
Asagiri thought for a moment, and ran up to me.
– Then why don’t we go together?
──Wha! A-Asagiri-san!? W-what are you talking about!?
– I’m also curious and it seems fun to be well-informed before everyone else.
She smiled with a mischievous smile.
Dammiiiiiit! What the hell is with this timiiiiiing!? Aaargh, it’s so vexing! What a waste! Rather, even if I want to give priority to the exploration tour around the elf town with Asagiri, this is a date! A date, right!?
──Like hell it’s a date. I know that.
But my spirit wasn’t made of steel enough to defeat this temptation.
When I became aware of it, Asagiri and I were walking around the elf town.
If you’re going to call me a weak, then call me as such. You can curse at me, saying that I’m weak-willed. This choice is worth it. As I say so to myself, my heart prostrated itself in the direction of Infermia.
– Wow, it’s Christmas! Hey, look, look, Doumeguri-kun!
The town in the forest away from the port town was completely “Christmas-like”. A large Christmas tree is decorated and colorful decorations and lights shine in the center of the dim square were the sun was setting. Red and green decorations and decorative illuminations glittered the shops surrounding the square. It doesn’t feel as noisy as other towns, but considering it’s an elf town, a frivolous feeling hung in the air.
– It’s so beautiful… wow, the lights don’t look like light bulbs but fireflies!
Asagiri is very excited about the surprise called Christmas Event. No, thanks to this, I was saved. It’s impossible for me to entertain Asagiri with my conversation techniques. Despite being in development, I give my thanks to everyone at Hell’s Domain who prepared the data for the Christmas Event.
– Are you thirsty? Is there a place we can talk calmly somewhere, I wonder?
– Err… what should we do? Hahaha.
An elegant residence was located overlooking the square. It looks like a café, Elves in waitress-style clothes stands at the storefront.
– Hey… does that… look okay?
I have no reason to refuse. We entered the café and sat on the terrace. It’s December, but the climate is a bit cool. We can relax and watch the Christmas lights without freezing.
I mean, I can’t relax. My heart has been nervous all this time. But why did Asagiri invite me? She said subtle things that felt like she wasn’t going out with Ichinomiya. Maybe she’s going to, with me…?
– Doumeguri-kun. There’s something I want to ask you…
Ask me? Y-you serious? No, looking at me with upturned eyes and casting your eyes downward is a killer technique, you know? Since she’s dispatching that, then that means she has an interest in m──
– To be honest, it’s about Akira-kun.
──Huh?
– I don’t know the reason why Akira-kun wants to return to our world, so I wonder if you haven’t heard anything.
– … Reason?
Asagiri blushes and fidgets, looking embarrassed.
– For example… if there’s someone in our world, or a person he wants to see… or a close person.
Oh, I see….
– Recently, Doumeguri-kun and Akira-kun have gotten along. So probably that kind of conversation would have come out, which would be great. I-I say so, but I don’t want you to forcibly get that information, okay?
I thought that probably she wasn’t going out with Ichinomiya on the sandy beach of Sandiano, but that didn’t mean I had a chance. The wonderful girl in front of me thinks nothing of me. That’s how it was. Asagiri was kind to everyone.
I’m the only man who can provide information about the man she’s in love with, that’s all there is to it.
But this is fine.
I can leave Asagiri to Ichinomiya.
Depending on the situation, I may end up doing terrible things to Asagiri in adult mode again. I don’t have the qualifications to receive the kindness from Asagiri.
I got up from the chair.
– Sorry. I have to keep going a little more… I’m really sorry.
Asagiri waved her hands as if flustering.
– Not at all, it is I who should say so! I’m sorry for asking something weird out of nowhere.
– No, Asagiri isn’t at fault. Well… about your last question, I’ve never heard Ichinomiya say that there’s a girl in our original world he wants to see.
– Eh!? It’s not like I was talking about girls only──
Asagiri blushed and panicked, waving her hands horizontally.
– See you later.
I parted from Asagiri who waves her hand with a smile and left the store.
──Yes, my aim isn’t to raise my likability with Asagiri.
But save Asagiri’s life.
And make Asagiri happy.
Will Asagiri be happy by dating me and being my girlfriend?
The answer is NO.
First of all, I don’t have such capabilities.
I, who betrays everyone, isn’t qualified to treat Asagiri kindly.
Besides, when we return to reality, my deeds will naturally be found out. When that happens, Asagiri will be disillusioned and disdainful to me.
No, it’s fine, really, but based on Asagiri’s personality, I feel that Asagiri herself will be shocked and hurt rather than hate me.
That’s why I shouldn’t get too close to Asagiri.
I make sure she returns to the path we came and then I go deep in the forest. Then I hid behind a large tree and looked around.
Alright… no one is here.
I put my fingers in an L shape and twisted my wrist to open the menu.
Now it ’s Demon King time.
– So you are Demon King Hellshaft, the one I have heard in rumors?
I met the Queen of the Elves during the audience at the Castle of the Elves, the Weisskrone Castle.
Queen Ulriel was a very beautiful Queen. All elves look young, but the queen, just like the rest, seems to be in her twenties. She sits on the splendid throne above the stairs, staring at me with eyes half-closed without blinking. There’s a silver shining crown on her head. And her hair is ridiculously long, the golden shining hair extends even on the floor.
– Elf Queen Ulriel. It’s an honor to be able to meet you.
It was easy to meet her. I imposingly walked in from the front and told them that I came to see the Queen. Well, I knocked some knights that annoyed me off their feet. The elven young man who guided 2A Guild was also beaten, but this was also unavoidable due to the procedure. The Queen wouldn’t have received me unless I did this.
– Let’s go straight to the point. Join forces with me, Ulriel.
The elven authorities and guards standing in lines in the audience room caught their breaths.
– Wha… what is this absurd joke to the Queen──
An uncollected close associate interjected. But the Queen raised one hand and stopped him.
– Demon King, why do you want an alliance with Arzheim?
-For the peace of this world, of course.
– Peace?
A commotion took place in the audience room. Agitation runes among the close associates.
But Queen Ulriel doesn’t change her face as if being frozen.
– This is laughable. Is that a Hellandia-style joke?
She says with a face like she wasn’t interested at all.
– The Demon King, who brings destruction and chaos to this world and tries to get everything in his hands, speaks of peace?
– This world will not be peaceful unless someone rules it. Only a powerful person can subdue worthless disputes. What do you think, Ulriel? If you join me now, I guarantee Arzheim’s rights on this continent.
The Queen’s eyes became thinner.
– And because of that, you are communicating with the Dark Elves in Rowalrinna? How foolish. I don’t care what you have to say. Everything that you say is for appearance’s sake. No more than pretenses varnished with lies.
──!?
My heart jumped.
Calm down, why would I be flustered!? Those are no more than words. Just a speech created by AI based on the original scenario.
I looked up at the Elf Queen.
Her eyes that let me feel their dignity and strength pierced me.
For some reason, her eyes felt like she could see through to the bottom of my heart.
──What is this “losing to a character” feeling? What to do when humans are scared of AI!?
I cheer myself up, but I can’t stop my spine from growing cold.
– You can leave, Demon King Hellshaft. Never set foot into this land again.
Ulriel declared, leaving no room for fine negotiations.
Collect yourself, Doumeguri Kakeru. The chances of success were almost 0 from the start, weren’t they? It will breakdown as planned.
I waved my flame cloak and turned my back on the Queen.
– Very well. But Elf Queen. Let me give you one advice.
– Hou, what?
– Humans should be coming to this country now. Be cautious of them like you are with me. Those bastards will propose an alliance. But they only consider using the elves. Try asking why they want to form an alliance. You’ll understand that they only think of you as pieces for their own circumstances.
– … I will take that advice.
I step forward and stood still as if remembering something.
– And one more thing. There are two male swordsmen among humans. It’s better to be careful of the one that is short.
– Why is that?
– Because he’s giving plans in the shadows together with humans. He is the craftiest among humans. Humans have weak will and have a tendency to change. If you look at that man, you’ll understand that humans are less trustworthy than me.
I make my cloak wave and start walking.
– In case you trust human beings, you should imprison that man.
I leave that sharp parting remark and left the elf castle.
Two days later, I met the Elf Queen Ulriel face-to-face again. This time, as a human, as Doumeguri Kakeru. All 12 of us are lined up in 2 rows during the audience. Ichinomiya and Asagiri in the center of the front row. I’m at the end of the back row.
– Humans, why do you want to form an alliance with Arzheim?
It’s the same question as before.
– We are not humans from this world. We can’t return to our original world without defeating the Demon King Hellshaft and going through the Hell’s Gate in the Demon King’s Castle Infermia. But Hellander is powerful… it’s difficult to gain victory by ourselves. But if we can borrow the strength of the elf country──
– I see… it does sound like that.
The Queen said with cold eyes.
– We can’t form an alliance. Go back to Balgaea.
– Eh? P-please wait! I haven’t said e──
The surprised Ichinomiya refused to back down, but the Queen turned a deaf ear to him.
– You think we elves are like tools.
– You are wrong! You elves have a tense relationship with the Dark Elves, the neighboring country, right? There’s also a dark elf corps under one of Hellshaft’s subordinates! So, there’s no doubt that Hellshaft will eventually bare his fangs at this country! That’s why, and while we have time──
– If that is the case, we only need to take action once danger has increased. Allied forces aren’t limited to you alone. There are other races such as dwarves, and mercenaries aren’t a problem. Now, Arzheim hasn’t fallen into a crisis to the point we have to fight.
– Ku…
I chuckled to myself in my heart while looking vexed. Their reason could have been understood if heard normally, but since the information I blew into her in advance got in the way, she feels excessively suspicious of us.
Exodia Exodus’s AI is excellent. Particularly, the Elf Queen Ulriel, she was as sharp as a human. Then, surely——
– Please wait!
Asagiri came forward. Immediately a guard ran up to her in and thrust a spear at her.
– We want to return to our country. That is our main reason. But! It’s not just that. I can’t forgive the Demon King Hellshaft!
The Queen fixedly stared at Asagiri. Did she have an interest in her?
– The Demon King uses Hellander to cause destruction and chaos throughout the Balgaea continent. But I don’t understand great things such as justice or for the sake of the world. But he destroyed the city of Caldart and killed innocent people for no reason! I can’t forgive that!
Tears welled up in the eyes of Asagiri.
– And the Demon King uses despicable means, disdaining everybody. He plays with people’s hearts, and enjoys himself tormenting others… I can never forgive such a being!
Asagiri’s eyes become blurred with tears. A line of tears ran down the cheeks from the eyes shining brilliantly.
The queen seemed to sigh slightly. Certainly, the story of Asagiri touches one’s heart. It gouges my heart. But that doesn’t apply to the Queen──,
– Your heart doesn’t seem to lie.
──What?
– Certainly, the Demon King’s threat grows day by day. That is what I feel. However, and because of that… It’s too early for Arzheim to move to defeat the Demon King. I look after the lives of all the elves in this country. I can’t afford to take careless actions.
Arisugawa bent himself forward with a face that looked like he was thinking too hard.
– B-but! Ernes-san, whom we met in Sandiano, said! If it’s us then… we could fight together.
The pupils of the Queen seemed to sway to a slight degree.
– Ernes? That girl…?
But the Queen rapidly put her iron mask-like face back.
– Such a lie will not help you.
– It is not a lie. Queen-sama.
A clear, beautiful, sweet and cold voice that sounded familiar.
Her cloak and blonde hair wave in the audience room, which she enters gallantly. It was Ernes whom I met in Sandiano.
– Ernes… you did the reconnaissance of Hellandia then.
– A general investigation has been settled. And I am worried about these people.
Saying so, she smiled, staring at Arisugawa, Leonhardt and me.
– Please leave it to me. I am not saying something like mobilizing the whole army. It does not matter if I am put in charge of one soldier. Please allow the subjugation of the Demon King Hellshaft!
Ernes kneeled before the Queen and bowed deeply.
Actually, I could say that only two minutes have passed. But it felt like time was running out as if feeling overwhelmed. And the Queen got up from the throne abruptly.
– We elves form an alliance with humans here.
– Oh!
2A, and even the elven authorities raised their voices.
– Thank you very much!
The 2A lot rushed over Asagiri who thanked in tears.
The handsome elf young man holds out his hand to Ichinomiya.
– We are comrades from now on. I am counting on you. My name is Glion.
Ichinomiya showed a really happy-looking smile on his face and grasped back the extended hand.
– Likewise! I’m Ichinomiya Akira. Nice to meet you.
The Queen’s calm orders had an effect on both excited armies.
– Can I speak now? Both armies will now work together to exterminate Hellander and take Infermia. We will take down the country called Hellandia, and…
The Queen’s half-open eyes opened wide.
– Defeat the Demon King Hellshaft!
Oooooooooooooooooooooooh! A war cry was raised.
──Crap. It was only a bit more… a bit more until the breakdown. But Asagiri moved the Queen’s heart. The appearance of Ernes became a decisive factor in shaking up the Queen.
I glared at Ernes.
To think she would appear here, this was outside my calculations.
– You, over there.
The Queen’s cold voice cuts through the audience room full of cheers.
– Huh?
The Queen was pointing at me. I see, it seems she did hear the advice I said. Good, good, otherwise, I’d be troubled. Otherwise, the next measure couldn’t be prepared.
– You… hmm?
The Queen looked hard at me. Hey, what’s wrong? Just say that I’ll remain here, alright? What happened?
But the Queen kept staring at me, as if her eyes could see through my heart.
Hey, don’t tell me. That she can really read my heart?
In addition, the beats of my heart gets faster again and I get nervous.
– You are… never mind.
The Queen put an end to her words again as if thinking over something.
– You will stay here for a while. There is something I want to confirm.
The 2A lot was surprised at that statement.
– What does that mean?
– Why Doumeguri-kun?
The Queen replied coldly to the questions of Ichinomiya and Asagiri.
– Guarantees are needed in alliances. We will take care of this person so that you do not betray us or misconduct.
After that, Ichinomiya and Asagiri refused to back down to release me, but it was to no avail. Ernes convinced them, saying, 「Staying here is rather safe」. But the rest of 2A have eyes as if they were saying “this person dares to do something so clever by themselves”. Arisugawa was a little worried though.
What worries me is that Shizukuishi was staring at me with a gaze that felt as if shaving off a person’s body. That person. May be suspicious of something.
For that reason, I’m in a solitary cell now.
Huh? Wasn’t I in a stylish resort hotel until yesterday? Isn’t this cruel? Well, even though I say solitary cell, it’s a stylish room made of stone. The bed is comfortable too.
As I peek outside through the window with iron bars, I can see the port. 2A’s ship anchored there had already disappeared.
The number of elven ships sailing together with it also gave an estimate of the approximate number of soldiers. They have my thanks for imprisoning me in a nice room. However, the ships headed for the capture of Infermia, so I can’t relax.
When I open the menu, I select the Demon King’s armor from the equipment section. In the twinkling of an eye, my body, which was the body of an average male high school student, turned into a huge body of 2.3 meters.
I put my hands on the door of my cell and put all my strength into them.
– Hmmm!
Making the sound of stones crumbling, the entire iron door was ripped off the stone wall. I gently leaned the iron door against the wall, ran down the corridor and went down the stairs.
– Hmm? Where should I go?
I was brought directly from the audience, so I couldn’t grasp the road. The structure inside the castle was complex and puzzle-like.
– It’s hard… to get out of this thing. Rather, should I destroy it to go outside?
– Please refrain from doing so.
? Uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! You surprised meeee!
– O-oh… Satanachia? You’re late, aren’t you?
Satanachia, a dark elf with white hair and brown skin, appeared from the corner of the intersection.
Satanachia had been ordered to come, following 2A Guild.
– I was ordered to follow them… but to think they would come to a place like this.
It was unusual for Satanachia to have a disgusted face.
– The humans and the elves were planning to work together, so I needed to confirm the results. As expected, those guys conspired together. We also need to take countermeasures immediately.
First of all, we have to get out of here… Where is the exit?
– This way.
Satanachia stood in front of me and started walking.
She knows well this maze-like path.
I followed her despite being impressed, and certainly, the exit was there. It’s a narrow rear entrance where only one person can exit at a time. Fortunately, there are no guards.
– The ship is hidden in a rocky area through the forest.
– Got it. Let’s go.
We ran out of the castle at once.
──!!
A flash of light flashed.
– Kuh!
A sharp sword scratched my chest and sparks scattered.
– Be careful, Satanachia!
I kicked the ground and made my giant body rotate in the air and landed. Satanachia is already holding a bow and pointing an arrow at the opponent that came attacking. It’s one enemy. She loosely hung her sword and stared at her.
What’s going on?
Satanachia didn’t try to fire the arrow while drawing the bow. The opponent who cut at me approaches.
– Satanachia… how dare you to come back.
– … Ernes.
Are they acquaintances?
Ernes examined Satanachia many times, making sure to trace her from head to toe.
– Are you going to pollute the land and air of Arzheim… with that repulsive appearance of yours again?
– …
Satanachia’s gaze became grim.
– How despicable. By becoming the Demon King’s underling, you are now involved in treacherous things!
– Ernes… I──
– Don’t say my name!
Ernes shouted as if spitting her pain out.
– Don’t say my name with the same face and the same voice as Satanachia!
Ernes grimaces in hatred and readies her sword.
– Satanachia is dead. You are a demon hidden in Satanachia’s skin!
Ernes kicked the ground.
– Perish! You demon!
She approaches Satanachia at an amazing speed.
– … Kuh!
Satanachia swung her beloved bow Black Heart Shooter. Then the bow transforms into a sword in an instant. At the same time as it changed, she confronted Ernes’s sword.
– Satanachiaaaa!
She makes the sword rotate and rejects Satanachia’s sword. Then she tried to slash at her right away in the other direction. Satanachia bends herself backward, dodging the sharp sword with just a few millimeters away from being slashed.
Kuh… that elf Ernes is strong. Probably as strong as Satanachia. If the battle drags on, all sorts of troublesome things will──
– Over there!
– They escaped!
When I thought so, I heard loud and tensed voices from afar. This is problematic.
– Satanachia! Ignore that person! Let’s escape!
When she heard my voice, Satanachia lowered her sword. Seeing that, Ernes distorts her mouth.
– What’s wrong? Are you ready to be killed?
But Satanachia stared at Ernes with her usual cool eyes.
– Ernes, it is as you say.
– Humph… what now?
– The Satanachia you know is dead. The one that it is here now is the dark elf Satanachia. Hellandia’s Dark Elf Corps Commander, Hellzekter Satanachia.
Ernes opened her eyes wide in surprise.
– Next time, come to kill me seriously, Ernes. Otherwise… you will die.
Satanachia left those words with her, turned on her heels and ran. She ran, instantly passing right next to me.
Ernes glared at her retreating figure with a demon-like expression in her eyes.
– Satanachiaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!
I ran at full speed as I listened to Ernes shout on my back that felt as if spitting blood.
I follow Satanachia through the forest and jump down a cliff. As Satanachia said, the ship coming near the steep cliff was there.
When we landed on the ship’s deck, the ship leaned greatly. Satanachia is already raising the sails and preparing to set sail. The ship begins to move slowly, leaving the shore.
– This is a serious matter, isn’t it? Satanachia.
– Yes… there is no problem.
Holding the rope, Satanachia stares at the front of the ship. I didn’t know what to say or what was the best to say to that back of hers.
Satanachia… what happened in your past?
Am I strangely establishing the past of Satanachia now? I didn’t think about that.
