Shirone the Maiden of Swords

　The Kingdom of Argoa is the northernmost and furthest reaches of the human kingdom.
　Chiyuki-san says that Argoa means "to watch" in the language of this world.
　Originally, it was the name of a giant with a hundred eyes. That giant has no blind spots in space or time, and is able to monitor the world omnipresently, because even if one eye is asleep, the others are still awake. Hence, the name "Giant" came to mean "to watch".
　The people of Argoa, who bear the name of that giant, are probably still watching Nargol.
　In the first place, Argoa is a country that originated from a fort built to rival the goblin kingdom that existed to the south of the Acheron Mountains.
　In that fort, warriors from all over the world came to attack Nargol, and it grew in size.
　Using that fort as a base, the warriors destroyed the goblin kingdom and then crossed the Acheron Mountains to attack Nargol.
　And none of them returned.
　Argoa was founded by the warriors who remained in such a fort.
　For this reason, Argoa is different from other countries in its characteristics.
　Originally, human countries were built in places where humans could live and still build their own walls. However, Argoa is based on a fort and is not a very inhabitable place. Therefore, Argoa is not a very rich country. The food situation seems to be bad.
　And perhaps because of the warriors as their ancestors, Argoans are a bit rough around the edges.
　Perhaps that's why there was a tendency for conflict to occur within the country.
　However, I've heard that when we talk about fighting, it only ends with a fight at best, and it never developed into a killing match.
　At least that's what happened when I came here before.

''What's the matter with you!　The people of this country!

　Kyouka complains.
　Right now, we are in the guest room of the Kingdom of Algore. We just had an audience with Omiros' father, King Algore, just a few minutes ago.
　Although on the surface he seems to be welcoming us, I can see in his attitude that he didn't want us to come if possible. It's not just the king, but the people around him seem to feel the same way.
　He invited the nuisance that is Ogre in, I can kind of understand why he doesn't want to come, but some people are a little depressed because they don't like it so blatantly.
　And then there's the Regena thing. They are clearly turning against Regena.
　Algoa was in a state of civil war until recently. The battle is over, but the traces of it are still there.
　I could feel that there were fewer people here than when I came to this country before. The reason was probably due to the civil war. The scars left on the stone walls of the building tell the story of the intensity of the conflict. It must have probably caused considerable casualties.
　And the person who caused that conflict was Cupius, Regena's father. He probably still hates that Cupius even now.
　We who brought that Cupius' daughter, Regina, to protect her, must be uninvited guests.

''What is it, really!　I'm sure Miss Rigena herself wasn't part of the conflict!

　Kyouka is angry.
　From what Ligena says, Ligena herself doesn't seem to have joined the fray. Rather, I get the feeling that she was trying to stop it.
　Kyouka thinks so too, and is angry at the attitude of the people of Algoa.
　That Regina remains silent in the corner of the room. She hasn't spoken since she entered this country.

''I can't send Regina-san back to this country, can I? ......

　Kaya says. I agree with you. I didn't think the conflict was this serious. No one wants Regena to come back.
　The only exception is Omiros. Omiros was the only one who cared for Regena. But even if Omiros was the only one who felt that way, there was nothing he could do about it.
　If Regena remains in the country, she will eventually be killed.

'If you think that, then take me to Nargol!　Please send me back to your master!

　Hearing Kaya's words, Regina, who had been silent until then, screams out loud.
　And after shouting out loud, she glares at us.

''What do you want to do, Syrone-sama?''

　Kaya asks me.

'Hmm. What should I do: ......?

　I'm torn.
　I've already pulled a lot of information out of Ligeena. Honestly, I feel like I could send her home.
　But the Omiros thing is tripping me up. I'm hesitant to pull away from him like this when I think about him worrying about Ligeena.

''Hmm, there's also the matter of Omiros-kun: ......''

　I mutter in a small voice.

'...... So that means it's up to you, Omiros.

''If that's what Sirone-sama has decided to do, as far as I'm concerned, I have nothing to say.''

　The two of them also nod their heads in a small way.
　Ligena, who is listening beside you, looks a little dissatisfied.

''Shirone-sama, there are other things we need to think about.

　Kaya said and continued to speak.

'What?　Kaya?

　I ask Kaya.

'It's about the ogres. Apparently they have placed the Myrmidons around Argoa. They are expected to come here eventually.

　I nodded at Kaya's words.
　The ogres are after us. Honestly, it's a hindrance, even though it's all I can do to keep Kroki at bay.

Kaya. Can't we do something about it from here before the augers get here?

　Kaya shook her head at Kyouka's words.

''According to the people of this country, no one knows where the Gojigu Castle, the residence of the Queen of the Blue Forest Kujigu, is. It's just that the lore says that if you smell a sweet smell, you must leave the place as fast as you can. You might be able to find out if you check the direction the ants are coming from ......, but it's going to take a lot of time. In the meantime, there's a chance that Mr. Kroki will be here.
So it is: ......

　Kyouka is discouraged.
　He might be mistaken for Kuroki while he searches for Kuzig's whereabouts. So we can't take measures against the ogres.
　I wish I could get something out of Ethigos, but with the bugs implanted in his body, he is currently recuperating under the care of a medicine man in this country. He is in no condition to have a conversation.
　Also, there is a possibility that he may have embedded bugs in someone else in this country. But it's hard to test everyone in the country.

It's really a pain in the ass.

　I speak ill of the ogres.

'But I can't ignore them. Therefore, I'm going to take care of the ogre. Sirone-sama, you will have to deal with Mr. Kuroki.
Sorry, Kaya. ......

　I apologize.

'Will you be okay on your own, Kaya?'
'I can handle a few ogres on my own, Miss. I think it's more difficult for Shirone-sama to do that. Kuroki-san, of course, and that silver-haired girl with white hair is probably far stronger than the ogre. So, Shirone-sama, please don't take it easy.
'Yeah, okay. Kaya.

　I nodded in agreement.

'Hmph, you should be f*cked by your master!

　Regena, who was listening to such an exchange beside us, swears.
　We hear it and sigh.
　I can understand why she's so angry at being restrained, but can't we do something more?

By the way, Miss Regina. I have a question for you.

　Kaya starts to ask Regina a question.

'What is it?'

　Rigena replies angrily.

'How long do you intend to stay in Nargol?'
What?

　Regina was puzzled when she heard Kaya's question.

'What do you mean by that?'
'From what you say, Mr. Kroki, I get the feeling that you and your clan are trying to bring you and your family back to the world of men?

　Nargol is a world of demons. It's not a world where humans can live. It's probably because Kroki is there that they manage to live in Nargol.
　That's why Kroki is trying to get Regina to return to the human world. But since he has no connections in the human world, he seems to be having a hard time finding a place to accept her.

The only thing that matters is the fact that you have to be able to find a place for them.　Surely the Master is trying to bring us back to the world of people. But it's not so easy to find a country that will accept us.

　Rigena looks at Kaya as if she were gasping and says
　In this world, it is difficult to get citizenship unless your parents are citizens of the country.
　In this world, there is a limited amount of land where people can live. Therefore, the number of citizens cannot be increased indefinitely due to food and other reasons. Therefore, it is unlikely that a nation can give citizenship to strangers.
　Unless they are citizens of their own country, or citizens of a country with which they have an agreement, it would be difficult for them to even enter the country.
　And even if you can get citizenship, it's not always easy to find work.
　It's a good idea to have a good idea of what you're going to do with your life afterwards, not to mention the citizenship of Regina and the others.
　Kuroki doesn't irresponsibly throw out a life once it's been picked up. It should be easy to throw it out, but he has a difficult personality.
　But it's difficult for Kroki, who is not very good with people, to find a place to accept them. That's why Regina and the others can't leave Nargol.

You can't get rid of them. It's a good idea to have a good time with your friends. You can do that, right, Kaya?

　Kyouka said and Kaya nodded.

'I think we can certainly do it, Miss. We have the money, and if we use the name of a brave sister who was favored by the goddess Raina, some country will accept us.''

　Regina is surprised by those words.
　But it would certainly be possible for Kyouka-san and the others. With Kyouka-san's power, they could get citizenship in some country and find a place to work. Probably more dependable than Kroki.

'Ugh ...... but I'm ...... on your husband's side.

　Ligena was stumped for words if that was what she thought too.
　Perhaps Regena wants to stay by Kroki's side in Nargol.
　But Kroki is trying to get Regena out of Nargol.

'Regena. Do you intend to keep your clan in Nargol forever, at best?
Ugh!

　Regina moans at Kaya's words.
　It looks like she's hit a sore spot. Even if she wanted to stay in Nargol herself, she couldn't leave her clan in Nargol forever, could she?

'Well, I won't say right away. ''Well, I don't want to say right away,'' he said, ''but if you change your mind, come visit me at any time.

　Rigena doesn't respond to Kyoka's words. She chews on her fingers and seems to be thinking about a lot of things.
　Then, as we're talking about things, I hear voices from outside the door.
　I open the door and see Riette standing there.
　In front of Riette there was a platform with wheels and food on it.
　Apparently she had brought me some food.
　Originally, I would have met with the king for dinner, but since there was also the matter of Regina, we decided to eat separately.

''Oh!　Hey!　I've brought you a meal!

　Riette's voice is a nervous bite. Then Riette pushes the platform into the room.

'Um, the ...... that .......'

　Riette is frightened. Perhaps they are afraid of us.
　The people of Algore still remember what Mr. Rage did to this country. I can see the fear in their eyes as they look at us.
　Riette trembles and lays out the food.
　Riette would be about upper elementary school age in our world. She's a pretty cute girl.
　It's a little sad to be feared by such a pretty girl.
　The dishes served are common in this world.
　It's a soup of beans and turnip, served with grilled chicken and fruit. And the small bottle in the corner of the table probably contains fish sauce.
　There is a decent amount but not much variety.
　It's quite inferior to the meals served in the kingdom of Velos.
　Well, I knew that Algoa is not a very rich country, so I'm not surprised. It's so much more than that that I might not have come to Argoa if it weren't for the fact that I hadn't heard about Ligeena.

'So ...... then ......

　With that, Riette leaves the room to escape.
　I wanted to talk to her some more, but I had no choice.
　I look at the food. It looks frugal and not very tasty, but it's not extravagant.

'Would you like to eat too, Regina-san?　It's the food of my hometown.

　I invite Regina to join me.
　She didn't seem to have eaten much last night, or even breakfast and lunch, so she must be hungry for good.
　Suddenly I hear a lovely sound. It's the sound of Regena's stomach. Apparently her appetite has been stimulated by the sight of food.
　We look at each other and laugh.

'What?!　I don't need that!

　Regena holds her stomach and is embarrassed.

''Huh, Regena-san. Kuroki-san will be sad if you're not in good spirits when you see her again.'

　Kaya quoted Kroki.

'Well ...... you can't make your husband sad, can you ......?

　Citing Kroki, as expected, breaks Regina's heart.
　Really, what's so good about Kuroki? It's a pretty bad idea.

It's a pretty lavish meal: ....... It's a good thing that you can't get away with it.

　Rigena looks at the food and says.

'Is this a fancy meal in this country?

　Kyouka asks. Other people would think I'm being sarcastic, but Kyouka-san is not a sarcastic person. He listens with the bare minimum.

'Yes. 'Yes, this is a fancy meal in this country. We don't serve fish sauce unless it's a very special occasion. ......

　Rijena responds to Kyouka's words without anger.
　The seasonings in this world are generally salt, vinegar and fruit oil. Fish sauce is not common.
　But to my knowledge, it's just not common, though it shouldn't be that hard to find. I guess it's precious in Algoa.

'A really poor country ....... No crops of any kind are produced here. In a way, it's poorer than Nargol.
Is Nargol poor?
'It's poor for people. Still, you'll get what you deserve with your master's care. The food here is poorer than the food served in Nargol.

　Regina answers my question.

'Hmm, what kind of food does Kroki usually eat?'

'Your husband is, sir. ......

　Rigena starts talking about Kroki.
　Ligeena's mouth is really light. She talks more and more about Kroki that I wanted to know.
　So I was able to get more than enough information about Kroki from her.
　From what she tells me, it seems that Kroki isn't completely controlled.
　That Kuna girl seems to think that she's in the way of Regena, but Kuroki isn't trying to get rid of her.
　But Kroki seems to care a lot about this Kuna girl.
　Kuna is the daughter of a demon king, according to Regena's story. When Regena first met Kroki, she didn't show herself at all, but one day she suddenly appeared.
　And it seems that she's always saying that Kroki is hers on a regular basis.
　So surely that child has cast a spell on Kuroki, turning him into a dark knight and controlling him. But he can't make her listen to him completely because his control is incomplete.
　That's the conclusion I've deduced based on what I've heard so far.
　It might be easier to talk to the girl than to talk to Kuroki.
　Where are Kroki and Kuna now?
　Maybe they are already near Algore.
　In the meantime, I've asked the people of the Algore Kingdom to be vigilant in the sky. Kroki has dragons, so there's a good chance they'll come from the sky.
　If something as prominent as a dragon comes, you'll know immediately.

'I'll be waiting for you ....... Come quickly, Kroki .......

　I muttered to myself.




Omiros, Prince of Algore

'Those women are a bane, really ....... I can't believe you brought this stuff in. ......

　Macusis grumbles when he sees the werewolf on a dolly.
　Macusis and himself are carrying the werewolf on a dolly.
　The werewolf is bound in chains and unable to move.
　At first, they were locked in the most solid building in Algoa, the cellar, but they are in the process of moving it to another location when the cellar keeper asks them to move it elsewhere if possible.
　There is nothing in Algore that can be considered a jail cell. I'd rather be executed or exiled than locked up in a cell.
　But there is a place for temporary confinement. However, that place may be able to lock up a human being, but it is not suitable for locking up a foreigner.

You shouldn't say that, Macys. It's the sister of a hero, beloved by the goddess.

　He chides the complaining Macusis.
　The most revered god in Algoa is the goddess Raina. Macusis' words seemed to be a disrespect to that goddess.
　Since Argoa was close to Nargol, it was only natural to believe in a goddess who was hostile to the Demon King.
　The fact that he had lost support from the people of Argoa in Cupius for being hostile to that brave goddess was one of the sparks of the civil war.

'That said, Omiros ....... Because of those women coming to Algoa, the dark knights have an ogre coming here. If you're not good, Algoa could be destroyed .......

　I know what Macusis means. One of these two alone is such a threat that Algore could be destroyed.

"Macysys. "We are the warriors of Argoa. What are you afraid of, the Dark Knight or the Ogre?

　The people of Argoa are the descendants of the warriors who have gathered to attack Nargol. What would those descendants do if they were afraid of the demons?

'That said, though: ......

　Perhaps the warriors of Algore are getting softer with time. Macusis says weakly.

'Don't worry, Macusis, they'll take care of it. And I'm sure they'll take care of it. You see? I saw how easily one of these girls could take down a Myrmidon: ....... Macusis, you weren't there, so you wouldn't know.
But she says she can handle an ogre at least.

　Not long ago, the girls had an audience with their father, Montes. That's when a woman named Kaya said that to my father.

I'm not going to tell you anything more about it. Then I won't say anything more about this, but the regena is another story.

　My heart darkens at the words of Macusis.
　Is it still no good?
　Is it not possible to protect Regena anymore?
　It was very sad to think so. It's not just Macusis. Everyone is alienated from Regena.
　Many people have died at the hands of Cupius. Even though he didn't directly touch her, his daughter, Regena, is also everyone's avenger.
　Perhaps it's better that Ligeena is not in Algoa.
　It was really nice to see Rijena again. I dreamed that I could be back to normal again.
　Thinking about the Dark Knight. Apparently the dark knight who helped Regena was very kind.
　The same human tries to kill Regena and the Dark Knight of Nargol saves her. What an irony.
　But I don't want Regena to be unhappy. So I had to make a decision.
　Where is the Dark Knight? We may already be near this Argoa in order to get Rigena back.
　Thinking about this, we arrive at our destination.
　It is an empty house. It was originally the outer wall of a fort, where it was renovated and made into a house.
　And it used to be the home of Cupius' family. This house is the only one that survived the civil war, and it is said that the captured Regina was held here at one point.
　The house's wooden bay windows have been boarded up, and one of the two doorways is also boarded up.
　I'm a little nervous about locking up a werewolf, let alone a human, but there's nowhere else to restrain him. I'm sure we'll have no choice but to put the werewolf here for now.

It's not a good idea to have a good time. Are you going to let someone in again?

　You are approached by someone standing in front of this house. Obviously, they are the guards of this house.
　Why is there a watchman? And I'm curious about the statement.

'Again?'

　I ask the guard.

'Yeah, I'm sorry. I didn't tell you.

　It was Macusis, not the sentry, who answered.

'You caught a suspicious fellow while you were taking your brave sisters to your uncle's place.

　That was new to me.

''For what it's worth, it looks like those guys who went out to check on Myrmidon and the others found them by accident. They came from the Kingdom of Roxx, which is quite a bit south of here.

　I know about the Kingdom of Roxx. I've stopped by there once in the past. It's quite a distance from there to here. What in the world is he doing here?

'He claims he's just a traveler, though. I've been detained because of the circumstances.

　Macusis is right, it's an emergency now. Everyone is trembling with fear because the Dark Knight and the Ogre might attack.
　And the ones who are restraining them now might be pawns like Ethigos or someone else. That's why they've detained them.

'Well ...... what kind of person are you? A bard?

　A bard is a person who makes up tunes and travels to various places to sing.
　Bards are welcome in Algore, where entertainment is scarce. If it weren't for these circumstances, they wouldn't have been detained. Bad luck.

'Yeah, he called himself a bard, too, you know.

　It was Macusis who answered instead.

'I inspected your luggage and it's broken, but I did have my instruments with me. Oh, yeah. I had a hell of a lot of other stuff with me.
A thing?

　Macusis said and picked up the object he kept next to the guards.

'Here, look at that,'

　He takes the object offered by Macusis.

'Shield?'

　It was a circular shield.
　It has jewels embedded and patterned in places, making it look rather expensive.
　And then you notice something.

This is ....... Could it be a magic shield?

　The shield doesn't even reflect the light from outside, but it has a faint glow to it.
　It's certainly an amazing thing. Magic tools are not something that can be easily obtained.
　It is inferior to what Kyouka-sama and the others have, but it is still a rare thing.
　I'm sure you'll be able to find a way to make your own magic weapons and armor, but the only way to do that is to have a dwarf make it for you. Even that dwarf can't make magical weapon armor without materials. Therefore, few are able to have magical weapon armor.
　I think about the bound bard. Who in the world are they?

You can have it, Omiros. We may have to fight a Dark Knight or an ogre in the future.

　Indeed, Macusis is right. We may have to fight now. So it's better to have some magical armor.
　But I myself shook my head at Macusis' words.

'No, Macusis. That's not what a proud warrior does.'

　We should not do that, no matter how painful it may be.
　You shouldn't take what belongs to others. When I was traveling, I thought to myself, "We have enemies, goblins and orcs. There are enemies in the form of goblins and orcs, and humans should not rob each other.
　So I should return this shield to its owner.

'I see. ....... Well, if you say so, then I don't blame you.''

　Macusis reluctantly agrees, holding up his hand as if he has no choice.

'So, I'll return this shield and package to its owner. Please open the door, I need to see the people inside.
I understand, my young master.

　The guards open the door.
　Once inside, there is nothing inside, all the furniture must have been taken out. Someone is sitting in the corner of the room. Perhaps he is the bard.
　He realizes that they've come in and stands up.

'Excuse me. You are a traveler. I'm sorry to see you like this.

　He bows his head to the bard.

'No, look up, prince. I don't mind. It appears that you came at the wrong time.

　The bard will forgive me. And how did he know he was a prince?

Okay.

　He looks up and sees the bard.
　He is a man about his own age. He has dark hair and a well-defined face. If you look closely, he may be more handsome than Parsis.
　But he doesn't have a very conspicuous appearance.
　His clothing is also plain. If I dressed up, I might be able to get women, but maybe I don't like flashy clothes.
　That's what I'm thinking about.
　I can't tell what he is from his appearance. But for now, let's give the package back.

I'll return your luggage to you.

　He urges the guards to hand over the instrument and the package he was carrying.
　He takes the instrument and the package in his hand.

'And here's another ......'

　I hold out the shield in my hand.
　But he doesn't take it.

"The shield is for you, my prince.
""What?!"

　The two men behind me make the same noises.

'Something terrible must be about to happen. If that's the case, those shields should be useful.''
Did you happen to overhear the conversation outside?

　It's not like this house is supposed to be soundproof. Maybe that's why he could hear them talking outside.
　The bard scratched the back of her head as she laughed, "Hahaha.

''No, I'm surprised to receive such a precious thing: ......''

　Magic armor is a valuable commodity. Some wouldn't even sell it, no matter how much gold they loaded up.
　And I couldn't believe that they would give it to me instead of lend it to me.

'You should have that shield, Prince. It will help you. So that you can protect those you care about.

　But the bard shakes his head and replies. Who are they really?

Keep it, Omiros!　But you're still a good guy, man!　Come on over to my place and I'll treat you to a meal of beans!

　Macusis says, tapping the bard on the shoulder.
　'I doubt if pea dishes are a treat, but they're the only food we can serve in this country.

'Yes, it is. We will have a werewolf in this house. Therefore, you are welcome to come to our house. We will thank you for your shield.

　He invites them to dinner, as does Macusis.
　I don't know who this one is. But Macusis is right, we should thank him.

'No, it's fine right here. I'm afraid something big is about to happen.

　But the bard shakes his head and declines.

'But there will be a werewolf in here.
'It's okay. The werewolves seem to be chained up, so ....... Besides, I'd like to talk to the werewolf as well.
'I see. ......'

　He is an odd man to want to talk to a werewolf. But I've heard that many bards are curious. Perhaps he is too.

'So don't worry about it.

　The bard laughs and replies.

'Heh. You're an odd one to want to talk to a werewolf. Then I'll get my sister to bring you some food later.

　Macusis laughs. Macusis says instead what he thought but didn't say it. Isn't that rude?

So what's your name, then?

　Macusis continues to speak.
　Come to think of it, I don't know the bard's name.
　When asked his name, the bard makes a little thoughtful gesture before answering.

'My name is Kuro.

　Black is a name you don't hear very often. He said he came from the Kingdom of Roxx, but maybe he was actually born in a more distant country.

''Black, that's a strange name.
Macusis!

　Macusis says another rude thing.

'My companion begs my pardon, Lord Black.
No, I don't really care.

　Black replies with a wave of his hand.

'By the way, Prince. I heard that there is a hero in this country named Parsis ......?
What's up with you, man? You here for the pulsis?

　The bard likes to sing of heroes.
　Parsis has become famous in neighboring countries for slaying goblins, a man worthy of being called a hero.
　No wonder he is heralded as a bard.
　He would love to meet Parsis and compose a song.

'Parsis is in the country, to be sure. But he's away for now.
'I see. ......'

　Black looks a little disappointed. He must have wanted to see Parsis.

''Ha, wasn't Kuro-dono really planning to give this shield to Parsis?　If Parsis comes back, shall I give it to him?

　Magic weapons and armor are more appropriate for heroes. Maybe it's better for Parsis to have this shield than for me to have this shield, especially if I have no abilities.
　So I say that with a laugh.

''Aye, yea!　You can't do that!　Prince!　Never give that shield to the Parsis!　You should use it!

　Suddenly, Black says as if in a panic. His calm demeanor from earlier seems to be a lie.

''What? Oh, yes? Okay. ......

　He replied, his momentum pushing him to do so.

'I'm sorry, prince. I'm so distraught.

　Black said and laughed haha. Who is he, after all? It's a little suspicious.
　But you wouldn't know it by looking at it.
　We've talked about this a little too long. I think it's time to go. We need to fortify our defenses before the Dark Knight and the Ogre arrive.

Well then, Black-dono. Well then, Black-dono.

　Then he bows to Black.

'No, no,'

　Black also bows his head.
　Then they themselves leave the house.

'Macusis. What do you think of Lord Black?

　I leave the house and ask Macusis a while later.

'Come on, ....... I just have a feeling that we're not just talking about something else.

　Apparently, Macusis didn't think Black was just another person.

But isn't he a good guy who gave me his shield?

　But then you go on to say something lighthearted.

"You..." ......

　But Macusis was right, he didn't seem like a bad person.

'What do you say. Do you want me to take you to those girls?　Maybe they've got bugs embedded in their bodies.

　He was certainly suspicious. So perhaps he should report it to the girls.
　But I shake my head at the words.

'No, I won't: ......

　If they were working for the Ogre, they should take him.
　But something feels different. He's too suspicious to be called an ogre's interrogator.
　Besides, if you're going to implant bugs, it's faster to get them directly into someone in Algore. There are plenty of gaps in that. There's no need to use an outsider for that.
　So I don't think he's working for the ogre.
　So who is he? If he doesn't work for the ogre, does he work for the Dark Knight?
　It couldn't be the Dark Knight himself, could it? But it could be a minion. I don't know why he gave me the shield, but he might have some kind of plan. However, I'm going to dare to go along with it.
　That's why you don't have to say anything to them.

"I see. ...... If you say so, I won't say anything.
I'm sorry: ......
Good. Have it your way: ......

　Macusis, for lack of a better word, is thinking of himself. I have to thank him for that.

'Shall we go, Macusis?'
Yeah.

　Then he starts walking.



◆Kuroki the Bard

'You managed to meet nicely: ......

　I disguised myself as a bard to sneak into Argoa to meet Omiros.
　I wanted to meet him once to see what kind of person he was. He seems to be quite a nice guy. I have a feeling that he can be trusted with Regina.
　That's why I asked the dwarf Dario-dono to make it specially for me.
　Nevertheless, my plans were a bit off. I didn't expect to be detained. If I was going to be taken to Syrone and the others, I would have had to flee.
　Touch the broken instrument. It used to be a lyre.

'I've heard that bards can enter the country with ease: ......

　An old woman in Ljena told me that being a bard would make it easier to enter the country. Then I came to Argoa in disguise.
　I didn't use a cloak because I wanted to meet him head on and talk to him openly. I wanted to know what kind of man he was.
　If I approached him in a cloaked form and met him, he would be wary of me and I wouldn't be able to talk to him properly, and I wouldn't be able to get to know his character.
　Well, after all, he was somewhat suspicious of me. But I think I've gotten to know his character.
　All we have to do now is eliminate the pulsis and confirm Regena's will.
　But we don't know where Palsis is, and at Regena's side are Shirone and her friends.
　Pulsis' aim may be to kidnap Regena while he and Syrone and the others are fighting. So, we must take action.
　Coona jumped out to say that he would take care of Syrone and the others, but where did he go? I honestly have a bad feeling about this.
　I may not be able to keep my hands off of Kuna or Syrone. I may not be able to do anything about it myself when Parsis makes his move.
　If anyone could save Regena, it would be Omiros.
　I'd like to help Regena as much as I can. But I don't have that much power. If I had more power, I could help her more, but I can't think of a good way to do it.
　That's why I want Omiros to do his best.
　That's why I gave Omiros the shield.
　Originally, the shield was one of the things I was going to give to Regena as a parting gift when she left me.
　There would be no problem in giving it to Omiros.
　Also, I'm going to eliminate as many obstacles as possible for him.
　I see a werewolf brought into this room. I know this werewolf from the side of the room where I heard someone from this country talking about it, but I believe he is a servant of the ogre.
　I don't know much about the ogres. Why are they targeting Shirone and the others?
　Maybe it could be an obstacle to Regena and her friends. That's why I wanted to get some information on the ogre.
　I approached the werewolf and removed the chains that were blocking his mouth.

''Kuhaha!

　His mouth comes free and the werewolf exhales heavily.

'Hey, dude. Free me!　Do that and I'll tell Master Kuzig to spare your life at least!

　The name of the werewolf sounds familiar. It's the name of the ogre I met on Velos.

'Well, sorry ....... I'd like to ask you a few questions about that kuzig, the ogre.

　I lower my head and ask the werewolf.

'Oh!'　Are you out of your mind?　I'm telling you to untie me quickly!

　Apparently, it's impossible to hear them out normally.
　The werewolf says he'll only save his life, but he's shooting a killing shot at himself. It looks like he's going to kill himself once he breaks his chains.

'I guess I don't have a choice: ......

　Even though he was a werewolf, he didn't want to use this method too much.
　The magic of fear.
　It's a magic that manipulates the mind in the same way as the magic of fascination. Those who are subjected to this fear spell will have an unbearable fear of their opponents.
　That's why I don't like this magic. I don't think it's a good idea to manipulate any person's mind, even if they're not a good person.
　But I wouldn't hesitate to use it in some situations.
　I put my hand on the werewolf's head and activate the magic.

'Oh ...... oma ...... you are ......'

　The werewolf begins to tremble. His eyes are open to the limit and his mouth is fluttering.

"Werewolf, say your name.
'Duh. ...... It's Daegan!　You're a horrible man!
Well, Daegan. From now on, you follow yourself.
'Ha, ha, ha!
'Then it's Daegan. What I know: ......

　I was about to ask Daegan what he knew.
　Suddenly the door is opened.

'I've brought you a meal.'

　A girl of about ten years old comes in through the door. There are two plates on a trolley that the girl is pushing.

'Thank you, Miss,'

　I thank you.
　It's impossible to get them to listen to you if this kid is here. I want you to leave as soon as possible after I put the food down.
　The girl brought some kind of bean soup.
　The beans do not require large areas of arable land and can be grown even within the walls of the city, and are eaten in every country in the world.

'What beans? Give me some meat. ......

　Did they know it was pea soup from the smell? Daegan mumbles something extravagant as he gets his food brought to him. I glare at him a little.

'Nope, those beans look delicious. I'm a big fan of beans!

　Maybe it was my own glare, but Daegan reiterates.

'I didn't know you liked beans ......, I thought wolves liked meat.'

　The girls give me a strange look.
　The girls place the soup in front of them and sit down in front of themselves.

''What?''

　Why am I sitting in front of myself?

Hey, you're a bard. Sing me a song!

　The girl looks at me with expectant eyes. Come to think of it, she was disguised as a bard.

'The bard who came before me had a funny song. Uncle, sing something for me too!

　It hurts a little to be called an uncle. But from the point of view of a girl of this age, I may be an uncle myself.
　A bard's song is a song story that tells a story to music. It can be a myth of this world, a heroic tale, a love story.

'I'm sorry ....... My instrument broke on my journey. I can't sing right now.

　I show myself a broken lyre.
　It is a lie. Even if it isn't broken, you can't sing. I brought a broken instrument here on purpose.
　If the bard asked me to sing in disguise, I was going to show him the broken instrument to get through it.

'Eh, boring!　Everyone seems to be busy, and no one is willing to deal with me. ...... Hey, you could at least tell us something.

　I'm puzzled by what the girl says.
　Honestly, I'm thinking about putting her to sleep with magic, but I'm hesitant to use magic on a girl like this.

''Hmmm, I guess so ....... Well then, let me tell you about the thunder dragon that lives in the sea of clouds: ......
'The Dragon of the Cloud Sea? What is that I want to hear!

　The girl's eyes sparkle.
　I tell her about the thunder dragon I met before.

'Eww, that's a lie. I didn't know a dragon could give you power.

　The girl doesn't believe me at all. It's true.

'But as a story it was interesting!

　He laughs at me when he says that.
　Yes! I get a gut punch in my mind.
　It's nice to see the girl's reaction because she's been scared all the time lately.

'Hey, you need to tell me more stories, Uncle!
'Yeah, yeah, ......'

　It was time to talk about the next one.
　Daegan storms out.

'What's wrong?　Mr. Werewolf.

　The girl asks Daegan.

'I smell it!　Here it comes, here it comes, the ogre is here!

　Daegan exclaims.

'Come to think of it, there's something sweet about the smell: ......

　The girl was right. Something smells sweet and good.

'The ogre kuzig is here!

　Werewolves have a good nose. Perhaps it was really an ogre who came.
　I was so busy talking to the girl that I forgot about it.
　I get up.
　Apparently, I have to move too.



◆Silone, the maiden of the sword.

What, the castle?　It's coming closer.

　I go up to the window and look out.
　The moon is bright and there is not a cloud in the sky, so I can see far away.
　In the moonlight, something huge is approaching.

Is that a castle of sweets?

　I nodded at Kyouka's words. Our eyes are so good in this world. The castle is still far away, but I can clearly see what kind of castle it is.

'Perhaps that's the Ogre Kuzig's castle. As I recall from your story, the walls are made of lepkuchen, the roof is made of confectionery, and the windows are made of crystal clear sugar. I'm not sure about the confectionery in this world, but it seems to be made of something similar.

　Kaya explains.
　By the way, lepkuchen is a kind of cake made with honey, spices, orange and lemon peels and nuts.

What's that? Are there ants carrying a castle?

　Kyouka was right, there were a lot of ant-man Myrmidons carrying the castle of sweets around like a portable shrine.
　This is ruining the fairy-tale nature of the castle.
　The Castle of Sweets stops when it reaches Argoa.
　You can see the castle even better when you get closer.
　The spires are made of cream. The windows are filled with colorful sugar candy. Baked goods like röpkuchen on the walls. Candy lanterns make the castle of sweets float in the moonlight.
　A light emerges from one of its spires. The light is distorted and projects a certain image like a screen.
　It's definitely a magical image. That magical image shows a human figure.
　The shadow that emerged was familiar.

''That's Kuna-sama!

　Regena, who was watching with me, shouts.
　Regena is right. The figure that emerges is definitely the silver-haired girl with white hair that I met in Velos.
　But why is that girl in the Ogre's castle?
　If you look closely, you can see what looks like an ogre at the edge of the image.
　I'm not sure what it is, but it looks like it's teaming up with an ogre.

"Come on out! White!　Let's take on Kuna!　If you don't come out!　I'm going to sic those ants on that country!

　The girl in the image shouts out.
　I look and see myrmidons writhing around the castle of Gotashi.

'It looks like you've been appointed, Sirone.

　Kyouka looks at me and says.

'It looks like ....... I guess I'll have to go if you're the nominee.'

　I draw the sword from my waist.
　Just as well, I wanted to talk to Kroki, but I also wanted to talk to that boy.

'It's not safe for you to be alone, Lady Shirone.

　Kaya's worried about me.

'No, I'm fine. I'll run away if I'm in danger. But more importantly, Kaya-san, if Kroki comes, please hold him back!

　I say and don't give Kaya time to stop me and jump out the window. Then, I put out my wings and head for the castle of the Gotashi.
　As I'm flying, feathered myrmidons block my path.

''Get out of the way!

　With a flash of his sword, he cuts down the Myrmidons.

'If you're going to compete!　Let's give you a ride!