Mushoku Tensei
/ Mushoku Tensei Volume 23
In order to defeat Gisu, Rudeus was able to win over the leaders of the various countries and one of the World Powers as his allies.
He was successfully able to tame The Great Empress of the Demon Realm Kishirika by feeding her and was now aware of Gisu's whereabouts.
Gisu was in Biheiril Kingdom!
However, North God Kalman the Third was there as well.
Should he win over North God as his ally first or should he give a call out to Sword God first?
Just when Rudeus was starting to waver, information from the Mercenary Group arrived that "Someone like Ruijerd was found."
The place he was found at was Biheiril Kingdom.
Thus, Rudeus decided to embark towards the Biheiril Kingdom where the three people namely 『Gisu』, 『North God Kalman the Third』 and 『Ruijerd』 were currently gathered.
The conference room in the Orsted offices.
There, I sat directly across from Orsted.
On both sides, Eris, Roxy, Sylphy, and Zanoba could be seen respectively.
Roxy was keeping the record of proceedings.
"——Is what happened."
I gave Orsted the report of the last sequence of findings all at once.
Gisu, North God Karlmann III.
When I told him that the two of them were discovered in the Kingdom of Biheiril, he was in a good mood.
It never came from his mouth, but he had an atmosphere as if he wanted to say "Good job!"
I also continued my report in high spirits.
"…"
However, as soon as I reported that Ruijerd has been discovered, that good mood disappeared.
To put it plainly, his expression clouded.
"… Ummm, is something wrong?"
He seems kind of mad, but kind of not.
Seeming like a negative aura was overflowing, he glared at me.
After all this time, just being glared at won't cause my legs to quake.
However, if I don't know the reason, I become a little anxious.
"… In the Kingdom of Biheiril, the Ogre God is also there."
Ogre God.
That reminds me, Ogre Island, where the Ogre God lives, is to the east of the Kingdom of Biheiril.
No, I didn't forget.
However, I need a confirmation.
"Didn't you say something about the Ogre God becoming an enemy easily?"
"The current generation Ogre God has been an apostle in a past loop."
I see.
Then, the chance that Gisu's location is a trap has increased.
Alternatively, Gisu's objective may be the Ogre God.
Even if we discuss that in the conference room, we won't understand. Not unless we go there directly.
However, we are currently in the conference room.
Let's focus on things that can be discussed in the conference room.
"I'd like to discuss our plans from now on, that included."
"Yeah."
"For the present, we have this many materials gathered, so I don't think putting it off and not going to the Kingdom of Biheiril is an option."
For the time being, I'll present my strategy.
"There is the chance that this is a trap by Gisu, or rather Hitogami. However, we don't know when we'll have another chance to catch Gisu, who keeps running about, so this could be seen as the perfect chance. I regret not being able to call out to the Sword God, but I think I should head to the Kingdom of Biheiril. Is this okay?"
"I have no objections."
In any event, immediately after hearing of Gisu's discovery, Atofe began moving on her own.
I didn't hear what route she'll be taking, but I'm certain it will be a while before she arrives.
One or two months, or possibly longer.
In order to meet up with her, as well as to tell the people there about her, going to the Kingdom of Biheiril is unavoidable.
"There are 4 things we need to do.
Find Gisu, and crush him.
Find North God Karlmann III, and persuade him.
Find Ruijerd, and persuade him.
Find the Ogre God, and either persuade or crush him.
In that order of priority… if that's okay with you? Orsted-sama."
"… Yeah."
Personally I'd like to meet Ruijerd before anything else, but even so the North God should be first.
As for the Ogre God, it would be easiest if Atofe ran into him when crossing the sea.
If I don't get in contact with her, that's probably what will happen.
Or rather, how should I go about contacting her?
I don't think there's any way other than the communication lithograph established at Fort Necross.
… Well, it may be better to put off thinking about that until Atofe arrives. Or rather, there may be no other option. Not having a means of emergency contact is pretty inconvenient.
"Furthermore, upon locating Gisu, if his gathered war potential is high, I'll call in for reinforcements for our side."
The enemy is in the Kingdom of Biheiril.
However, if after gathering our forces in Biheiril, it turned out that he had already escaped then I would look like the boy who cried wolf.
I'm sure it's something that happens from time to time, but trust in us will still lower.
"I don't think it'll be too late to call in reinforcements after Gisu has been discovered."
The enemy is there, and we're going to have a decisive battle.
It's better not to call in our allies until after that has been decided.
If we repeatedly discover Gisu, call in allies, let him run away, and disperse, and are unable to gather any allies when the time is right, it would be meaningless.
"For that sake, I think we should establish teleportation circles at each location for calling in reinforcements."
The Kingdom of Biheiril is a small country, but even so it has three large cities.
The capital Biheiril.
The second city Irel.
The third city Heilerul.
"In the vicinity of each of the three cities, I will set up teleportation circles."
I throw a glance at Roxy.
"The number of people who can accurately draw teleportation circles is limited, but I thought something like this might happen, and asked my great teacher to prepare a number of teleportation scrolls. Applause, please."
A thunderous applause began.
Confetti danced and fell on Roxy standing on stage.
Roxy held a mic while waving her hand to her fans from around the world gathered in the hall, and they fainted one after another.
In my mind, at least.
"Regardless of whether we do or don't discover Gisu, we'll cut off all his escape routes.
We'll send people to the neighboring countries and monitor the highways.
For this, we'll use the Rudo Mercenary Corps here in Sharia."
Rinia and Pursena.
Aisha will also move, I'm sure.
"Once the escape routes are closed off, we'll search for Gisu. As soon as he's found, we'll call in reinforcements and crush him in one go."
What's important is being certain the enemy is there.
After that, is to make sure the opponent doesn't run away before our forces are gathered.
Fortunately, Biheiril is enclosed by forests, mountains, and the sea, and doesn't have many neighboring countries.
It won't be that difficult to prevent him from escaping.
Of course, when Kishirika found Gisu with her magic eye, she sensed the presence of Hitogami.
In that case, the chances are high that she was detected by Hitogami in return.
There's a chance that he has already escaped.
According to Gisu's letter, if he was trying to make comrades then he would even be able to escape the forest.
Securing the surrounding countries is just for peace of mind.
"I see. Then who will establish the teleportation circles?"
"Let's split the work. The three of us will divide the locations between us."
"… Wouldn't that be a problem, though? After all, Rudi's the one being targeted."
"Yeah."
At Sylphy's words, I nodded.
Putting whether or not to believe it aside, Gisu's letter said that the one being targeted is me.
If I act independently, it's quite possible for me to fall into a trap.
The danger of each of us getting crushed separately also exists.
"However, thanks to Orsted-sama's bracelet, I can avoid Hitogami's surveillance.
Gisu and Hitogami can't sense me or Orsted-sama, or the people around him.
Nonetheless, this is Gisu we're talking about; he may be able to find me with anachronistic methods.
In other words, finding me with normal information-gathering methods.
That's why I'll disguise myself.
Before I'm discovered, I'll quickly establish the teleportation circles."
Regardless of whether or not it's a trap, I shouldn't show myself too quickly.
Thus, I'll use a disguise.
Even disguised, if I gather information to try and find Gisu, I'll be exposed sooner or later.
However, I'll be able to avoid a scenario where immediately after entering the country, I'm surrounded and destroyed.
If I'm lucky and go about it well, even if Gisu has placed a trap, I can still take the initiative.
If there's no trap, it means that Kishirika finding him with her magic eye was outside of both Gisu's and Hitogami's expectations.
In that event, Gisu will probably run away.
On the other hand, Gisu should have business that brought him to the Kingdom of Biheiril.
Until I arrive, he may try to finish his business up until the last minute.
By disguising myself to delay my discovery, I may be able to lengthen the amount of time before he runs away.
There's no reason not to.
"If Rudi wants to hide from Gisu, it may be best to have a diversion."
Roxy gave that proposal.
A diversion.
In other words, make him think that "I sensed a trap and decided not to go to Biheiril."
If the chum they scattered gathered fish, but they could only catch small fish and the one they were aiming for wasn't there, they may become confused.
"A diversion, huh? Any specific ideas?"
Roxy nodded.
"Yes. How about having one of us go to the Sword God?
Queen Ariel said she'll send reinforcements at any time.
Ghyslaine and Isolte should be included in that.
Those two are familiar with the Holy Land of the Sword, and won't turn against us or fall behind.
Even if the Sword God were to become an enemy, it won't be a problem if we gather information beforehand and return without making contact, and even if we can't get the Sword God, we could at least bring Sword King Nina with us."
Sword King Nina, huh?
The person I met in the Kingdom of Asura.
The one who Eris herself wanted to make a comrade, which is unusual for her.
She's no substitute for the Sword God, but if she's on par with Eris, she'll certainly be a battle asset.
If he's an enemy, then quickly return with just Nina. Putting aside whether we can do it, if both Ghyslaine and Isolte are there, I don't think anything is impossible.
"Ah, in that case I'll do it."
Sylphy raised her hand and said that.
Sylphy will go to the Sword God… well, she should be able to handle negotiations.
She's more or less acquainted with Ghyslaine, Isolte, and Nina, after all.
Furthermore, just the fact that Sylphy is going will act as a diversion.
Since the children have already been born, there shouldn't be much merit in killing my wives, but Hitogami is well aware of who I want to protect.
If my wives go different ways, my whereabouts become harder to discern.
However, there is one concern.
"… Isn't it dangerous?"
"Of course there is danger. However, we know Gisu's whereabouts, so I think the danger will be little."
That's certainly true.
Gisu won't want to have the people he had won over as comrades crushed one by one.
If Gisu is somewhere else, his allies should be there with him.
Or so I think, but those thoughts may have been read.
"I think Hitogami knows what is most important to Rudy. If we go, wouldn't it be successful as a diversion?"
Roxy said what I was just thinking as if to emphasize it.
But… Huh?
If you think about it that way, isn't my plan problematic?
Establish teleportation circles within the Kingdom of Biheiril, and gather my forces. However, moving from place to place should take half a day or more.
Isn't it possible for my forces to be crushed individually?
Somehow, it's starting to seem like an all-out war.
This isn't a flag for my scattered comrades to die one by one, is it?
No, since coming to this world, I should have well understood that flags and such have no meaning. However…
"But, I'm a little worried… Maybe it would be better to stop with this plan…"
"Rudi…"
Roxy suddenly heaved a sigh.
As if she can see through my timid thoughts.
"Listen up, Rudi.
Adventurers entering a labyrinth aim to finish the adventure without losing a single person.
If everyone does everything that they can do, the chance of returning alive increases.
Until now, what we considered the [something we can do] was staying home and watching over the children.
After all, to me and Sylphy, Rudy and Eris were fighting in a far-off place beyond our reach.
However, right now, the plan I suggested is [something we can do], and I think it will raise the chance of everyone returning safely."
Chance…?
However, that's true. Nothing is ever certain.
Even if you think it's completely safe and certain to succeed, unexpected situations can occur, and something you didn't think about can cause it to fail.
"I know that Rudi wants to keep us safely locked up at home.
However, even if we're locked up, if you lose, it's the end. We'll all be annihilated.
There's a risk to everything.
Let's brave the dangers, so that we can all be smiling in the end."
If anyone dies, would I be able to smile?
I go to the Kingdom of Biheiril, and when I come back, Roxy, Sylphy, and Eris are gone.
Would I be able to smile then?
No, I wouldn't.
"Rudi, we're already parents.
Let's not just look at ourselves, but into the future."
At those words, Paul's face suddenly crossed my mind.
If Paul were alive, at this moment, what would he say?
When he went to the Teleportation Labyrinth, he took me along.
During the teleportation incident… he had a lot going on, so I'll set that aside.
Before then.
When we were living in Buena village.
At the very least, Paul didn't lock me away at home.
I'm sure he was doing his best to protect me, but in that village where if you walk away a bit you may come across something dangerous, he let me walk around on my own.
Zenith, too, when she wasn't pregnant, worked in the village's clinic.
Even when she was pregnant, during her stable period, I think she went toddling out a few times.
Paul wasn't always right.
He didn't have any clear enemy.
However, right now, I'm still alive.
Thinking of it like that, saying no to everything is a bit overprotective.
No, but the circumstances are completely different…
"Yeah. It's just as Roxy says."
Sylphy gave her agreement.
"We'll bear the risks. When the enemy's defeated, as long as one of us remains to take care of the children, it will be fine."
"… That's right!"
Eris nodded to Sylphy's words.
I don't know if she was able to follow the conversation up to here, but at least she was in agreement with Sylphy.
"…"
Zanoba and Orsted didn't answer, but they didn't voice any opposition, either.
"Okay, then let's go with that. Any objections?"
No objections.
Then, let's go with this plan.
While hiding my presence, we'll split up to find Gisu, and if he's found, we'll close off his escape routes and wait for reinforcements, then crush him.
"Then next, let's work out the specifics."
All that's left are the details.
As a result of our discussions, we were split into the following teams.
After each team sets up teleportation circles, they will separate and search for Gisu and the North God.
Just like Sylphy proposed earlier.
Zanoba will mainly do information gathering.
Eris and Roxy will deal with the Ogre God.
The team that eliminates the escape routes will take orders from Aisha, so it'll probably work out fine.
My job became related to Ruijerd.
The Ogre God who has been referred to as this and that since long ago.
The North God Karlmann III who just so happens to be going to the Kingdom of Biheiril.
Ruijerd who has deep connections with me.
We can't quite predict Gisu's movements, so we ended up splitting our forces.
It would probably be best to leak some information and play it by ear.
The members going to the Kingdom of Biheiril will move out immediately.
If we waste time, Gisu's whereabouts may become uncertain.
I don't want to have to search for Kishirika over and over again to get her to find Gisu.
Sylphy will move out a little after that.
Ariel said she will send reinforcements immediately, but she has her own circumstances.
Ghyslaine and Isolte probably won't arrive in just a few minutes.
Julie, Ginger, Rinia, Pursena, and the rest of the mercenary corps have their own jobs that they're still in the middle of, so we'll tell them to prioritize this instead.
It may be unreasonable, but this is the critical moment.
We have to do this, even if it's unreasonable.
Is this a chance or a trap?
It may be optimistic, but I'm hoping for the former.
Using the communication lithographs, we told the plan to Ariel and Cliff as well.
Ariel immediately responded "I'll give you my utmost support," but Cliff still hasn't replied.
Unlike Ariel who has a lithograph in her room, in Milis we have to send messages to Cliff through the mercenary corps, so it probably takes time.
"Any questions?"
I looked over the surroundings, but nobody raised their hand.
There don't seem to be any.
The one who looks a little worried is Zanoba.
Looking at the state of affairs, higher priority is given to the third city which is closest to Ogre Island and the second city which is closest to where Ruijerd was spotted, but the capital has the most people, so it may be the most dangerous.
Ginger's information gathering abilities are high, and Zanoba's a powerful combatant, but he's weak to fire magic.
'Don't end up dying now.' or so my thoughts.
"Zanoba, be careful."
"I know. However, rather than for myself, I'm worried about the shop."
"Oh, that's right…"
For the record, whether it's the store or the factory, they should still go on even if the top brass isn't there.
However, if neither Zanoba nor Julie are there, if some major trouble occurs, I don't know how it will fare.
"So you wanted to leave Julie behind?"
"Hahaha, I promised I wouldn't leave her again."
Zanoba's really loved by Julie…
Or rather, I wonder how Zanoba feels about her.
I wonder if they've made love.
That's kind of a hard thing to ask.
Zanoba has times when he kind of pulls back one or two steps from women.
If someday he has children then I fully intend to tease him and call him a lolicon bastard, but I don't want to butt into his affairs too much as an outsider.
"Eris too, are you alright?"
"…… I'm fine."
Eris looks dissatisfied.
It seems she wanted to go with me.
However, if she did that, there wouldn't be anyone who could guard Roxy.
Furthermore, if I'm with Eris, we'll stick out like a sore thumb.
She can't do anything covertly.
That's why I put her with the one who stands out the second most, Roxy.
They're also a kind of diversion.
"I'm worried about Rudeus being alone."
Certainly, I'm also worried about myself.
I wonder if I can properly avoid Gisu's attention while gathering information.
Gisu's information skills are top-class.
Unless I move very well, as soon as Gisu knows that someone's searching for North God Kalman or Ruijerd, I'll be noticed by him.
If he notices me too early, he'll naturally run away.
In the first place, nothing good ever happens when I act on my own.
"Well, I'll make it work out somehow."
It would have been better if I had gathered one or two people who are good at gathering intelligence.
Regretting it now won't change anything.
I couldn't predict the situation turning out like this.
"What will Orsted-sama be doing? I'd be thankful if you could stay here to manage the communication lithographs and protect my family."
"…Sure."
"Thank you very much."
Orsted is house-sitting.
He stands out, so he's not really suited for information gathering.
There may be times when we need him, but it's best if he stays here whenever possible and comes to help when the battle starts.
Of course, there is the matter about his mana, so it would be a problem if he participates too much in battle.
He's something like the last trump card.
Or rather, it's for the sake of preserving his mana that he has me as a subordinate.
As such, having Orsted fight can be considered to be our loss.
"…"
Orsted stays silent.
I get the feeling he wants to say something, but I can't see his facial expression because of the helmet.
I wonder if he's concerned.
No, we're about to undertake a massive plan, so he must be tense as well.
"Rudeus. Just in case, you should wear that ring."
"Ring?"
The Death God's ring.
Suddenly told that, I looked at my hand.
On my finger is a rather creepy ring with a skull design.
It's what I got from the Death God. After meeting Kishirika, I started wearing it for no particular reason.
"Can I ask the reason?"
"It's just in case. Simply wearing it has an effect."
"…Understood."
I don't really get it, but if simply wearing it has an effect, then I guess it's fine.
When the time comes, I'll probably understand.
"Also, there's one…"
"Ummm…"
Someone raised their voice.
Orsted held his tongue.
Who's the foolish employee who cut off the president's words?
But looking over the surroundings, no one's saying anything.
No one's raising their hand, either.
However, it was a woman's voice.
Which means the offender is one of those three.
"Chairman——"
If she's calling me chairman, that means it's… huh? She's not here.
"There's a visitor——!"
No, I get it.
The voice is far off.
Everyone's gaze turns to the door.
This is the receptionist Lil elf-chan's voice.
What was her name again?
"Excuse me, I'll go check it out."
I told everyone not to disturb the meeting, but…
It may be an emergency.
I moved from the president's office to the lobby.
"…Uo-"
The instant I entered the lobby, golden light flew into my eyes.
He's golden.
From head to toe, he's covered in gold.
A person wearing shining gold armor was standing there.
"Wha……"
"Hey there."
The golden light casually raised a hand.
In that voice and those movements, I saw the phantom of a certain being.
An even more golden suit of armor.
A golden knight.
I've heard that the Fighting God's armor was gold.
I've also heard that Badigadi once, as an apostle, donned that golden armor and fought with Laplace.
That's it, he's coming to attack.
Gisu was a decoy!
Hitogami salvaged the golden armor and sent in his vanguard!
"This person seems to have come here using the teleportation circles under Her Majesty Ariel's orders."
…As if that could happen.
Looking closely, the armor looked to be gold because of the light, but it's actually a dull ocher.
"Ah, nice to meet you."
The man took off his helmet.
What was under it was a head of black hair, which is rare in this world.
He looks around 50 years old.
He had many wrinkles, and the appearance of a veteran.
"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Her Majesty Ariel's knight, Sándor von Grandeur."
"Ah, very pleased to meet you. I am Rudeus Greyrat."
He bowed to me, so I returned his bow.
That's quite a name.
I've never heard of the house of Grandoire, but he's probably a noble.
"Earlier I received secret orders from Her Majesty Ariel, and thus came here."
Saying that, Sándor presented the box he was carrying under his arm.
Earlier… Just now, huh?
We had just finished telling her the plan. That was quite fast.
"I see. And this is?"
"Inside is a magic tool to change your appearance. I was told it was necessary."
Oooh.
Come to think of it, the Kingdom of Asura had those kinds of magic tools.
It's what was used to disguise Ariel.
At any rate, she was quite prepared.
She may have prepared it from the beginning, in case it became necessary.
"Please confirm the contents."
"Yes."
I peeked inside, and certainly, there was a green ring and red ring set that I remember seeing.
The person wearing the green ring takes on the facial features and hair color of the one wearing the red ring.
Using this, I can transform into a completely inconspicuous villager.
"Also, this is the Kingdom of Asura's insignia.
If anything happens, feel free to use this and her name, her majesty said."
He handed over another box.
Looking inside, there certainly is a medal bearing the crest of the royal family of Asura.
Since it's brand new, she probably thought writing a letter each time was bothersome and had it made for me.
It looks like I have another debt towards Ariel.
"Furthermore, we were ordered to give assistance to Rudeus-sama."
Assistance…
In other words, a filler until reinforcements can come.
As expected, it's hard to send a Sword King and Water Emperor on a sudden trip, so she sent some knights that seemed to have some free time.
No, calling him filler would be unfair to him.
He's also a fine reinforcement.
Ariel should have chosen someone who can maintain confidentiality.
Someone who won't talk about the teleportation circles.
"Hm? We?"
"Yes. Come on, say hello."
Sándor gestured with his chin, and the wall moved.
The large suit of armor that was standing like an ornament in the corner of the room moved.
I didn't notice that armor being there… he really has a weak presence.
However, once you notice him, he has quite a presence.
Heavy dark grey armor. He's very wide, and on the back is a gargantuan battleaxe.
It's an axe warrior.
"… I'm, Doga."
"……Ah, nice to meet you, I'm Rudeus Greyrat."
It seems his name is Doga.
He seems to be an armored knight, not an axe warrior.
However, even though his name and build are very rough-seeming, he has a kind face.
He doesn't talk much, but he has the feeling of a kind giant.
He seems to be in his 20s… no, he may even be in his teens.
Sándor, on the other hand, is a middle-aged man with decent looks covered in ocher.
He's also a little wide, but if you compare him to Doga, he's quite skinny.
It's the kind of pair that would appear together during a boss fight in some castle.
"Now, please give me orders. I can do anything you want."
"Uh, well…"
He went through the trouble of coming here, but what should I have him do?
Would the proper thing to do be putting him with the mercenary team…?
No, putting him with Zanoba would also be good.
However, there will probably be fighting.
"…Chandell-san, can you fight?"
"Yes, of course. I'm the strongest knight of the Kingdom of Asura."
The strongest, huh?
However, Ghyslaine and Isolte probably aren't included in that…
"It'll probably become a fight with someone on the class of the major world powers. Is that alright with you?"
"It's alright. From the moment I decided to serve Her Majesty Ariel, I've been prepared to throw away my life."
Hnnnn… then I guess it's fine.
Ariel may also have sent him intending for him to be disposable.
I'll put him with Zanoba.
…No, wait a second.
Isn't it a little strange?
Wasn't it just now that I contacted her?
Even if you say that Ariel works fast, isn't this too fast?
There's also the fact that his timing was too good.
He may really be Hitogami's——
"It's you, huh?"
I turn around, and Orsted was standing there.
Seeing him, Sándor bowed his head.
"It's nice to meet you, Dragon God Orsted-sama. I'm glad that you seem to be able to suppress your curse more than Her Majesty Ariel has said."
I look over, and Lil' elf-chan looks up at Orsted with her hands held together, as if she's deeply moved.
What is this…?
Could this be her first time seeing him?
It's true that he's wearing the helmet, but the curse seems to be surprisingly ineffective.
No, more importantly, what about Sándor?
"Are you serving Ariel now?"
"Yes. I have a certificate, too."
Saying that, he took a note out of his pocket and showed it to us.
It certainly says [Chandell von Grandoise is appointed as the leader of the Golden Knight Order of the Kingdom of Asura].
It bears Ariel's signature and the Kingdom of Asura's coat of arms.
Did he bring it with just for this purpose?
Since I suspected him earlier, that looks suspicious instead.
"You guys go with Rudeus. Gisu shouldn't know your faces."
"Acknowledged."
"Rudeus, that's okay with you, right?"
"Huh? Uh, yes."
He suddenly appeared, and it was suddenly decided.
Well, if Orsted says to do it, it's fine, but…
"Ah, no. It's not okay. Wait a minute. Please don't suddenly decide for me. In the first place, who in the world is this person?"
"Ah, he's——"
Orsted cut off there.
When I look over, Sándor has his finger to his lips.
"If you don't know, it's best if you don't find out.
Right now I am Ariel-sama's knight, and will be giving my assistance to Rudeus-sama."
Since he's saying that, he must be a well-known person.
Who is he?
I don't get the feeling that he's one of the world powers. He looks weak.
A famous person that seems to know Orsted… for example a member of the Dragon Race, like Holy Dragon Emperor Shirard, or Dark Dragon King Maxwell.
Ah, but he doesn't have silver hair.
Can't he just have dyed his hair?
"Will it be okay?"
"If it's him, there's no problem. I was also worried about you acting on your own. However, he's suitable. There's little chance of him being an apostle, and he should be good at information gathering."
If Orsted says that with confidence, then it'll be fine to trust him.
He showed up too quickly, so it was hard to judge him.
"Please leave it to me."
If he's good at gathering information, is he that kind of famous person?
Orsted knowing about him is only natural, and he treated Sándor knowing about him as being natural, so he does seem like someone who deals with information.
I was also worried about acting on my own. That said, I'm also worried about working with someone I don't know.
However, if he's someone Orsted trusts, then there's no reason to doubt him, right?
There's also the fact that he is the reinforcement sent in by Ariel.
Hmm…
Orsted said that as if he's just what we needed.
Which means this man's ability is high, and is very safe.
That's what how Orsted judged him.
Ariel also sent him in as help.
She knows about my situation.
Above that, she sent him as reinforcements for the time being.
At the very least, she trusts him enough to have him use the teleportation circles.
In that case, I'll trust in Orsted and Ariel's judgment.
"I understand. In that case, please participate in the meeting. But though I said that, it's currently about to end."
"Yes, Sir."
After I finish explaining everyone's jobs, I'll ask Ariel.
Thinking that, I invited these two unidentified people to the conference room.
Biheiril Kingdom.
To the east of the Central Continent, the country is surrounded by mountains, sea and forest.
It's not a very powerful country, and it only has 3 major cities.
They are:
In the centre, the capital Biheiril.
To the south, the second largest city bordering the forest, Ilel.
To the east, facing the sea is the third largest city, Heilelul.
Those are their locations.
It doesn't have any special features worth talking about.
I guess the one thing worth mentioning is how large it is.
Despite not having the same level of combat power as the neighboring countries, it covers twice as much land.
It's connected to two other countries by highway.
However, the Biheiril Kingdom doesn't get attacked.
In the east of this northern land is the continuation of a powerful Era. [1]
This kingdom lacking in fighting force, for some reason, isn't attacked.
The reason behind this is the existence of the ogre tribe.
The Biheiril Kingdom has close ties with ogre tribe living on the lone island of Onigashima.[2]
Long ago.
Although I say that, the Biheiril Kingdom was only formed after the Laplace war, so it's 50~100 years ago at most.
At that time, the ogre tribe living on Onigashima, and the humans living on the northern peak of the continent didn't cooperate.
Although there may have been small exchanges with those living in the sea, at the very least, the ogre tribe members in human cities didn't selfishly swagger around.
At that time, the ogre tribe had a problem.
The ogre tribe living on the island were being invaded by the ocean race living in the sea.
The ogre tribe fought. And although they were a combat race, the ocean race's fighting power was too much.
At that rate they would have been wiped out, their only choice that of becoming the slaves of the ocean race.
In front of the ogre race, a human adventurer party appeared.
The adventures, hearing rumors of gold and silver, came to the island.
Where they came from and who they were, the ogre race did not know.
It was most likely a party of 4, no doubt comprised of a group of swordsman, dog, monkey, and pheasant-faced people. [3]
The adventures dreaming of treasure and battle.
What they saw was an impoverished ogre tribe.
The wounded ogre tribe soldiers, numbers reduced through fighting.
The women, living in fear.
The smileless children of the ogre tribe…
The adventurers who saw it, stood up.
It lit the fires of justice.
They swore to save the ogre tribe, and it was then that they conspired with the Ogre God.
Together with the ogres, they infiltrated the labyrinth that was the Ocean race's base.
After a fierce battle, they managed to kidnap the chieftain of the ocean race.
But the price for that was great.
The human adventurers' party had been wiped out except for the swordsman leading it.
Looking at his appearance, the indebted Ogre God swore to be his lifelong friend and offered any help the ogre race could give.
And the shocking truth.
He was the prince of an emerging country on the other side of the sea.
The prince returned to his country, and when he became king, he and the demon tribe took an oath of mutual protection.
To this day, the humans and ogre tribe live in peace together.
Well, that's roughly the story behind the foundation of the Biheiril Kingdom.
I don't really know how much of it is true.
In any case, the Biheiril Kingdom is protected by the ogre tribe, a large combat force. So despite its fertile land, it isn't invaded by neighboring countries,
It is being protected.
The Biheiril Kingdom is that kind of place.
As a group, we are heading towards the second largest city of Irel.
There are 3 members.
Claiming to be a knight of Ariel, the man in sand-coloured armour: Shandor.
His subordinate in grey armour: Doga.
And me.
Using their magic tool I changed my face, and on top of the magic armour [MK II], I had on another set of armour.
In addition, mounted on the back of the MK II are magic tools that Roxy developed.
If the button near the waist is pressed while pouring magic power into it, the scroll in the corresponding slot automatically activates.
With 5 by each hand, there are 10 types of scrolls in total.
Because you don't have to take out each scroll, it's extremely convenient.
But to carry all those folded scrolls ready for activation, it's become like a rather bulky backpack.
Because it looked somehow steampunk,[4] I decided to call it [Scroll Vernier].
Along with the gatling gun, it is the second Roxy Machine.
Magic armor, scroll vernier, and armor.[5]
I, wearing all those and a mantle on top of it all, was a more than 2 meters tall, and looked like a walking suit of armor.
It's the perfect disguise.
While working as bodyguards, practitioners of the North God Style are all over the place, but in this area, for no particular reason, you get people coming here and thinking, "Is there anybody strong around here?"
Visually, it should seem like Shandor is the leader, and we followed him here.
By the way, I'm going by the name "Clay" here.
We're getting around by carriage.
Currently, I'm one of three armored knights, travelling by rumbling cart.
The number of armored knights is three.[6]
Although we do stand out, in this world, it's not too rare a sight.
In the Magic City Sharia, you wouldn't see too many armored adventures, but in the Biheiril Kingdom, you'll see all kinds of people like that.
So, while moving towards our location, allow me to provide a simple introduction for my 2 companions.
Shandor von Grandeur.
Asura Kingdom's golden knight leader.
He was originally a mercenary with no affiliation.
He spent a lot of time in the strife zone, but at the time of Ariel's coronation, headed towards the Asura Kingdom.
He liked the look about Ariel and attempted to serve under her, but during the time he spent trying various methods to work for her, he caught Ariel's eye and she asked him to appeal to her. It was then that he rose to his position.
When I heard the story, it made it seem like all he was good at was kissing ass, but Ariel wouldn't make someone whose only skill is sucking up the knight leader.
In any case, something about him must have stood out.
When I asked Ariel for information on him, there was nothing shady, and the reply I got was that he was a man worthy of trust.
However, she didn't tell me anything regarding his identity. "I don't know~, ufufu~, then it's a secret~" I got the feeling she was messing with me.
But Ariel's knight didn't seem fishy, so I let it slide.
The Golden Knights.
Contrary to the name, the armor isn't all that sparkly.
Even if you change the light, you still can't see any gold. Although, if you polished it, it might shine.
And it's not gold; it's more of a yellow.
The Yellow Knights.
Oh, that sounds kinda strong it its own right. Like the yellow 14.[7]
"Does the Asura Kingdom even have Golden Knights?"
I'd heard of the black knights and the white knights, but I have a feeling there were never any gold.
"It is a band of knights created by her majesty after she was crowned. Their official duty is that of protecting Queen Ariel, but if it be by her majesty's order, wherever it may be, we will complete our mission. Through the use of forbidden teleportation magic circles if necessary."
In other words, Ariel's own private army.[8]
"Originally, it was founded for "Helping the Cooperators."[9]"
"Oh."
So it was established for us.
She is indeed loyal.
And scary.
What will Ariel request in the future?
Although if Orsted says to return…
"Although since it has just been established, its numbers are but an elite few. I may not look it, but I am a practitioner of the North God Style."
Although he said that while laughing, Shandor did not have a sword.
"Even though you don't possess a sword?"
"I think this is far stronger than a sword."
He said while spinning around a metal rod.
He seems to fight with a polearm.
A polearm user, this is my first time seeing it in this world.
Originally, in this world, because of the impact of the Supard race, pole-like weapons aren't looked upon very well, and as a result, only swordplay was developed.
That said, whatever weapon the Sword God himself used, it wouldn't be odd.
Although he's most likely no longer a swordsman, the North God is probably something closer to a ninja.
"The long reach gives it an advantage."
"Ah. So that's how it is.
With the Sword God Style, it's possible to make someone go flying at an unimaginable distance.
In the Water God Style, no matter what direction the attack comes from, it can be deflected.
Which is why it's strong. By not using a sword, you can use a longer weapon from the beginning."
It's a simple theory.
In my previous world, such thinking was commonplace, and weapon range kept extending.
But it was different here.
Following that thinking, swordsman wouldn't be considered special.
The strength of swordsmen is the fact that their wounds can be healed in an instant with healing magic. Because the people in this world possess such high vitality, enemies must be taken out in a single hit.
So, unfortunately, Shandor's polearm technique is on the losing side.
He may be able to overpower a human opponent, but against something with a high recovery ability, it would be a bad mad matchup.
"Doga over here is also a member of the Golden Knights."
"Yup."
Doga.
He doesn't have a last name.
He was born in the Donati Providence of the Asura Kingdom.
Originally, he was a soldier of the Asura Kingdom.
He was a gatekeeper for the Imperial Capital.
But when Shandor was appointed, he saw excellence in him and he was scouted.
"I'm also scouting."
"Creating the ideal knight band is the job of the captain, after all. From here on out, it is my intention to continue to recruit strong forces."
Job of the captain, huh?
Now that I think about it, Therese, the captain of the Miko's guard squad was the weakest of them all.
In an organization, the leader doesn't always have to be the strongest.
The important thing is their commanding ability.
"But Doga-san, contrary to the name 'Golden Knights', your armor isn't remotely gold?"
"Hah, besides formal occasions, only an idiot would wear such conspicuous armor."
Reasonable point.
Which means, Shandor would usually wear much flashier armour.
"Aah! I get it now. That's why when I showed you the letter, you gave me a suspicious face. If it was going to be like this, I would have worn my formal armor."
"I can tell you it wasn't like that."
With Shandor laughing cheerfully.
It's impossible to see him as a bad guy.
But Hitogami's apostles are neither good nor bad.
Orsted and Ariel both said it was okay, but I alone will remain vigilant.[10]
"Anyhow, there's very little snow around here."
As Shandor said that, I surveyed the surroundings.
The plain around us is lightly decorated with snow.
However, it's not enough to interfere with the carriage.
Originally, it was too much for farming.
The ground was barren and chapped, and the fields wouldn't grow anything.
Even far away, the ground here is known to be lifeless.
Speaking of the ground around here, at this time of year it's usually buried in snow.
But the Biheiril Kingdom has less snow than I thought.
Although the wind is cold and dry, there is simply very little snow.
"I wonder if it's because of the mountain."
"What does the mountain have to do with this?"
"Because the mountain to the west compresses the clouds, I was thinking that's what was stopping the snow."
"Oh… As expected of Rudeus-dono, you're quite knowledgeable."
"I don't know if I'm right."
The weather of this world may not follow the common sense of my previous one.
After all, in the Great Forest, it rains for 3 months straight, or a fertile continent can become a desert.
Unrelated to the mountain, it's a perfectly reasonable possibility that the magic power coming from the forest slightly to the west could be the reason for the lack of snow.
"My uncle was also interested in such things."
"Oh, was he some kind of researcher?"
"Where did clouds come from? Where did they go? How are people born? Why do they die? He spent every day looking at the sky, pondering such things."
I wonder if he was a philosopher.
Although,
I, in my old age, might spend my days like that.
As a 60-something year old man, sitting with Sylphy and Roxy spending our days as grandmas and grandpa...
Ah… no, Sylphy is of the mixed blood Long-Eared Race, and Roxy is from the Migurd race, so they would still be young.
Eris, even as a grandmother would give off an energetic vibe.
I would be the only old-seeming one.
"That's another philosophical thought."
"Philosophy?"
"Philosophy is… Hmm, a magical[11] thing."
"Leave it to me."[12]
On the way, we were attacked by something demonic.[13]
It wouldn't be wrong to say this country has a lot of forests. The highway we were on ran right next to one.
As we were attacked, it gave them a chance to demonstrate their abilities. "The Asura Kingdom is the greatest", is often said, and these men definitely had the ability to support it.
The excellent Shandor with pace and finesse, and Doga, defeating enemies in a single hit with his giant axe.
Is what I saw, or it more accurately, is all I could see.
That said, even the worst of swordsman would understand the situation.
Although it wouldn't even be a fight against a world power, at the very least they would be considered more than a slight nuisance.
As I realized that, we had arrived at the second largest city, Irel.
Second city, Irel
As far as I can see, it's a nondescript city.
It's completely surrounded by walls and street vendors are lined near the entrance.
It's this world's most popular structure.
Even more so than Magic City Sharia, the number of wooden buildings would be a feature if I had to call it that.
A wooden building with an extremely tilted roof is distanced from its neighbors.
Being surrounded by forest, it's only natural that they'd have a lot of wood.
Leaving the horse and carriage at a stable, we walked to the inn.
It was then that I noticed that the number of street vendors began to drop.
It was somewhat quiet.
Because there aren't many customers, the number of vendors is just as small… is the reasoning you would expect, but contrary to that logic, there is a large number of adventures.
Since earlier, we've been passing lot of armor-clad warriors and magicians wrapped in robes.
The number of adventures and street vendors don't match.
There has to be a reason for this, or maybe the problem isn't so clear-cut.[14]
"Woa."
While I was looking around, I had bumped into someone on the road.
"Oh."
They were a large person.
Standing at about 2.5 meters.
Even in my armor, I have to look up.
If there was a Half-Giant race, they would have this kind of feeling.
His skin was reddish brown, and hair, dark red.
Covered in muscles, his arms, legs and neck were all thick.
Most notable was his head.
It was huge.
His jaw was even bigger, sticking out.
And peeking through the mouth were fangs.
Coming from the lower jaw were two fangs protruding upwards.
And on top of that, from the messy dark red hair, two horns were standing out.
It's an ogre.
"Careful now."
The ogre I had bumped into took one look at me and continued down the street.
On his back was a massive pack that he was carrying like it was nothing.
That was my first time seeing an ogre up close; it was very intimidating.
Here in the Biheiril Kingdom, ogres walk around like it's a natural thing.
The humans here also accept it as a matter of course.
Seeing a multitude of races living together would be a rare sight in other countries.
"Clay, don't look around too much, you aren't some country hick."
"What? Oh, Ahh…"
Sharp words from Shandor.
It's a completely different tone from during the journey, for the purpose of disguise.
"There wouldn't be anybody strong around here anyways, looking around would be a waste."
"Yeah."
That's right, we're practitioners of the North God Style.
I should look like I don't have any interest in anything that isn't strong.
Otherwise it would be a waste of the disguise.
"First we have to find an inn. Right, Clay, Doga?"
"Yes."
"Yup."
The coachman-like[15] Doga is the same as ever, but Shandor is completely opposite; he's doing a great job in his role.
Shandor is moving as the leader in order to hide my presence.
I'm Shandor's little brother Clay. Job: Warrior.
Alright.
"Shandor. Arrival celebrations. After the inn is decided, wanna hit up a tavern?"
"Haa, You're pretty stupid sometimes, but every now and then you have a good idea. Doga, take note."
"Yessir."
After that, we headed to the inn.
The moment we entered the tavern, there was a somewhat uncomfortable atmosphere.
"…Hmm?"
It's different from any tavern I've been in before.
That said, it looks perfectly normal
There are plenty of adventurers. There are also a couple of villagers.
1-2% of the customers are ogres, but I can't say that they're the source of the discomfort.
A crowded tavern with many races is not all that uncommon.
I wonder what it is.
There's nothing special to draw everyone's gazes.
There's nobody particularly odd around.
There's nothing particularly odd around.[16]
But something is off.
"What's up, Clay?"
"Doesn't something seem off about this tavern?"
He takes a look around.
But it seemed like I was imagining it.
"…I don't understand. Do you want to leave?"
Shandor suggests that in a low voice.
"No, I want to know where the feeling is coming from."
"Understood."
As Shandor said that, we walked into the tavern with an unsuspecting gait,[17] and headed towards an empty table.
Behind Doga, I followed suit.
As Doga sat down, the chair creaked under his weight.
The chairs of this tavern are unusually sturdy.
While wearing the magic armor, I usually have to keep note not to sit in a chair, but here, sitting normally should be fine.
I wonder if this was causing the feeling.
No, it couldn't be.
"Bring us some food, booze, and introduce us to someone who's knowledgeable about the area. Make it quick, I'm exhausted from the journey. Ahh, put this guy on a different bill. You're a guy that focuses on fruit aren't ya? If you don't have any milk, water will do ya."[18]
While I was focused on the chair, Shandor had already handed the attendant 4 copper coins.
"Thank you for your patronage."
The attendant was also an ogre. A female ogre.
Maybe because she was a woman, she was a lot slimmer than the male ogres.
She had a wide frame and huge breasts… But overall, she looked quite human.
She might be half human.
She's probably not the source of the discomfort. [19]
"Like. I. Said. I told you to stop peekin' 'round like that."
"Ma bad."
Shandor wacked me over the head.
"But ya didn't needa hit me."
"Haa? You wanna go me brah?"[20]
His words may be rough, but the look in his eye says that he doesn't intend to hurt me.
Simply, I should take note that my current actions are suspicious, is what he's saying.
"Nah, it ain't like that… It's just I's a little fidgety is all."
"Fidgety? You got a bad feelin'?"
"No… It doesn't seem bad."
The feeling isn't unpleasant.
It feels like something I've been searching for, for a long time.
It doesn't seem possible, but it could be that Gisu or Ruijerd is here.
I want to quickly confirm the origin of this feeling.
When I think that, it causes me to look around.
The inside of the tavern is rather busy.
It's the kind of tavern you can find anywhere.
With laughter and noise, people eating and drinking.
Even the food is normal. It's the kind of river fish you can find anywhere.
But something is still causing this sense of discomfort.
Something that other taverns don't have that this one does.
"You guys want some information?"
As I was looking around, a man came to our table.
A human.
He had a sly rat-like look to his face.
"Are you the informant?"
"Yep, I know everything about this city. The number of adventurer parties, the peddlers' routes, even the blacksmith's mistress."
"K then, I'll have you teach me a bunch o' things. We just got here, so we'd like to avoid any trouble."
As he said that, he handed the man a couple of copper coins.
"Won't be a problem."
"I don't need to know anything major right now. I understand that you're an informant with a wide range, so can I leave finding work up to you?"
Along with Shandor's shaking question, I gave a fearless smile.
Right now my face is from one of the Rudo mercenary guild, so it should be rather intimidating.
"Jeez that's scary."
The Informant shrugged at my smile and turned to Shandor.
"So what is it you want to know?"
"What I want to know is what's common sense in this city, people's turf, the geography, anybody we shouldn't make an enemy of… Aah, and if any work that seems doable comes up, could you let us know?"
"Ok."
It's not like we'll suddenly hear of Gisu.
I can't get greedy
We are only warriors. Mercenary-like ruffians. We do not carry any demon trinkets.
"Common sense… Quite the request.
The country upholds the laws, and in turn cities can exist.
Aah… But there are a lot of ogres, so take note of that during your travel.
The people of this country live closely with the ogres. Even if you're devout Millis believers, keep any ill will towards the ogres to yourselves.
"What happens if I don't?"
"Nobody will sell you anything and the inns will refuse you.
Even this bar is owned by an ogre. You'd be thrown out and be forced to eat garbage."
Ogres are good neighbors.
Therefore, speaking ill of them will, more so than ogres, make the humans angry.
Sharia also has many races, but there is still discrimination.
They do not live as harmoniously as here.
"The geography… Roughly speaking, if you head north you'll reach the capital, and in the south is a single village.
It's a small village with nothing important; there are a few woodcutters and there's an ambassador, so it's well protected.
There's a labyrinth to the southeast. Information on that will be extra."
"Tell me."
Shandor handed him a couple more copper coins.
For the location of the labyrinth.
We don't have any intention of going, but it wouldn't hurt to know.
After learning about the labyrinth, the conversation will continue.
"People you shouldn't make enemies of, like I said before, ogres.
In this country, ogres and humans receive the same treatment.
Next is… Ahh, that's right.
This isn't someone you shouldn't cross, but there's a place you should stay away from.
The valley of the Earth Dragon."
The valley of the Earth Dragon.
It seems like a few important words have been skipped over.
The place where Ruijerd was discovered was also in a village near it.
"The valley is behind a large forest… But that forest is called the 'Forest of No Return.'[21]
Since ages past, the forest has been haunted by invisible demons, so entry is forbidden."
"Invisible demons?"
"Well… Invisible demons are more like childish superstition.
The Valley of the Earth Dragon, like the name says, is home to earth dragons.
Some budding adventures entered the forest and messed up their lair.
An angry herd of earth dragons couldn't be defeated by the country, and so it was made off-limits."
The man then furrowed his brow as if he was trying to remember something.
"But recently… Since about a year ago, there have been rumors of demons coming out of the Forest of No Return."
"Oh."
"The town's lord created an investigation corps to investigate inside the forest
But even after a couple of days passed, they didn't return.
The invisible demons probably got them, or they fell into the earth dragon nest or, perish the thought, they were taken out by a single magic beast.
Although it wasn't as if they were wiped out.
After giving up on the survival of the first investigation corps, the lord organized a second investigation corps.
One person came back."
That's when he bent down and looked me[22] right in the eye.
The atmosphere's a little like a horror film.
Not at me, but looking at Shandor.
"But he'd gone insane.
He had exceptionally scary eyes.
When the lord asked what happened, he simply muttered, "The demons are here, the demons…" with a vacant look in his eyes.
After witnessing that, the lord became quite frightened and ceased the investigation effort.
'Killed by earth dragons' was the official cause of death announced, and because of this incident, the other word used was forbidden…
The truth is hidden, and has been processed as another unsolved case.
This was… about half a year ago."
"When you think about it, it was a good thing.
Recently the story has reached the palace in the capital.
The king said "Even though there is a village so close, we cannot leave it alone while we know nothing!"
And so, the King has organized a punitive force.
So currently, members are being gathered in the capital for the force."
The man looked up.
"And so. For the identity and location of the demon, there's a special bounty; we're talking 10 Biheilil gold coins. It seems like the kind of work you can do?"
I see.
Invisible Demons…
It's a little different from the information I heard about Ruijerd's location.
I wonder if it's that kind of thing?
Originally, Ruijerd went to the village without any purpose, and he heard about the demon.
"A demon came out of the Forest of No Return."
And then, "There are invisible demons in the Forest of No Return."
"Invisible demons came out from the forest," would be the information he received.
Hearing things left and right, the information would get mixed up.
The information from the mercenary corps also passed through a lot of hands.
That's why we have to search to pinpoint our opponent.
Although it might be the opposite.
It could have gone: "An invisible demon really came out." → "The demon is a Supard." → "Come to think of it, I think I saw someone with green hair."
No wait, but I have no idea where any of this information came from.
Well, no matter what rumors spread, it wouldn't be odd.
Although with Ruijerd, he wouldn't show mercy to an opponent; it's possible he wiped out the investigation team.
Why would he go into the forest?
Did he go into the forest because it would be a problem if others saw and knew about him?
Hmmm…?
"Ahh, That's great. I got it… Seems interesting. Clay? Don't you think so too?"
"Hmmm, a demon huh… It does seem interesting. The 10 gold bounty is also appealing."
Although an appropriate answer, my head is full of other things.
In any case, we'll have to go to the forest.
With this much information, I can't think that Ruijerd is uninvolved.
"But with the bounty, it's first come first served.
You'll probably need to form a party to participate.
I'm not an adventurer, so if I were to participate, it would be as support."
Shandor winked at me.
I get it.
"That's right, we should get looking."
"Alright. Informant. Additional charge."
Shandor handed him several more copper coins.
"Find us a thief.
The condition is that it be someone that can do a lot as an adventurer and be good at information collecting.
It'd be good if his combat ability is low. We'll do all the fighting.
Chapter end
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