Shirone the Maiden of Swords

I really don't know if this is the right thing to do: ......

　I can't help but say it out loud.

'What's wrong, Shirone?'

　Kyouka-san beside me asked.
　Kyouka-san is lying on a beach chair on the deck of the boat in her swimsuit.
　She looks like a young lady on vacation.
　I, too, am lying on a beach chair in a bathing suit, but is it right to do this?
　We are now.
I'm on the Kish River.
　We came to the Kish River to investigate the labyrinth.
　We got a boat and came here with a group of lizardmen.
　I was actually planning to ask the lizardmen to move to a different location while we entered the labyrinth, but they did not know the geography around the labyrinth.
　But they turned out to be very familiar with the geography around the labyrinth.
　So after discussing it with Kroki, we decided to have Lizardmen help us survey the area around the labyrinth.
　However, there was nothing to actually do here on the Kish River.
　The lizardmen are instructed by Regina.
　For some reason, the lizardmen call her the Dragon Priestess and follow her.
　They don't listen to me at all. Because of this, the investigation has been left to Regena.
　Frankly speaking, there's nothing to do.
　But in the eyes of the public, Lizardmen are supposed to be following us, not Kuroki, so we can't leave the scene.
　Because of us, the Lizardmen are able to operate in public.
　If we weren't there, the freedom fighters and knights might come to take down the Lizardmen. We don't want to cause any unnecessary commotion.
　But there's nothing to do. That's why we are cruising the Kish River like this.
　The Kish is a great river, a major artery of the countries in the plain of Minon, where big ships come and go.
　At the mouth of the Kish River is the Republic of Ariadia.
　The boat Kaya procured is large and comfortable.
　It's probably even bigger than the cruiser from Rage's house that he used to take me on.
　The ship is now anchored at the riverbank near the labyrinth.
　We are enjoying the view of the other side of the river as we lie down.
　The Minong plain where the Kish River flows through is rich in nature and quite beautiful. This world is much richer in nature than Japan, where we were born and raised.
Lady. Lady Sirone. I have brought you a drink.
　Kaya brought me a drink from the ship's galley.
　Kaya is in a maid's uniform, not a swimsuit. I think she needs to take the fit off a bit.

'Thank you, Kaya-san,'

　I accept a ceramic cup with a drink in it.
　Glass is not common in this world. The cup can be ceramic, metal or wood.

"No,

　I thank Kaya and she bows her head.
　The fruit juice Kaya brought me has a refreshing flavor and goes down smoothly.

'Kaya. How is your research going?　I'm bored. ....... And there's no one to show you the swimsuit you're in.

　Kyouka says boringly.
　We are both wearing the same shape bikini swimsuit.
　But Kyouka-san has a much better style, so the s*xiness she exudes in the same swimsuit is different. If you are a man, you will want to see it.
　By the way, the swimsuit is made of special silk. It is an excellent material that does not absorb water.
　It is said that those who work at the sea wear swimwear made of this silk.
　The west side of the continent is much warmer than the east side.
　The clothes worn by the women also show a lot of skin except for the believers of Feria.
　According to the doctrine of the goddess Feria, it is not a good idea to show skin to men other than your husband.
　Therefore, women who believe in the goddess Feria have the same level of skin exposure as in the East.
　From such a Feria believer's point of view, our current outfit would be quite outrageous.
　But since we don't believe in the goddess Feria, there's nothing wrong with us dressing like this, religiously.
　More importantly, I wouldn't want to show it to anyone, but wouldn't Kyouka-san be different?

In that case, why don't you have the gentlemen over there take a look at it?

　Kaya says, looking at the rear of the ship.
　In the back of the ship are Regena and Novis and the others.
　'By lords,' he must mean Novis, Nephim the Water Brave and Zephyr the Wind Brave.

'No, Kaya. You have to have a good time. I don't know why those men are here in the first place.

　Kyouka says coldly. It sounds like a good idea if they are stronger than Rage-kun.
　Novice and the others are on this ship.
　Novis and the others forced us to follow them, saying that they were useful and wanted to take us with them.
　We were reluctant at first, but we allowed them to come aboard because the more men we had to move the ship, the better.

'I don't know about the other two, but apparently Novis or something like that hasn't given up learning the sword from Sirone-sama yet, sir.

　Kaya looks at me and says.

'Uhehe. I hope you're not going to do that. Besides, if you're going to learn a sword, you might as well learn it from Kuroki.''

　I really wish they would stop. I'm not a good teacher to begin with. You should ask Kroki to do that sort of thing.

''But, Shirone-sama. Kuroki-sama hides his true identity. It would be impossible to teach him the sword, wouldn't it?
'Well, yes, I do: ......'

　That kroki is now waiting in the city of Thessia.
　The lizardmen are following Kroki. So it's best for Kroki to give them directions.
　But I stayed in Thessessia because Reena said she and Kroki had something to talk about alone.
　So Regena is giving instructions to the Lizardmen.
　Regena seems to have been given some kind of magic by Kroki, and it seems she can act in the river.
　She's diving into the river with Lizardman to investigate.
　But why Regena, anyway? I wish I could tell you what to do, but there's nothing to do with this.

'By the way, Sirone. I think, sir?

　Kyouka-san looks at me and says

'What's up, Kyouka-san?'
''I've heard that Kroki-san is quite good with magic as well as swords.
'Hmmm, sounds pretty useful: ....... What about it?

　I'm not sure what Kyouka-san's question means.

'No, when I heard that you are learning the sword, it occurred to me that I was wondering if you could ask Kuroki-san to teach me magic?

　Kyouka says with a serious look in her eyes.

'Miss ......,'

　Kaya looks at Kyouka with a surprised expression.

'When I saw the person called Novice, I thought, too. I want to be strong too. I can't be slowed down forever: ......

　Kyouka says drearily.
　She's the only one of us who doesn't have the ability.
　It seems that Chiyuki-san taught her magic at one point, but she never improved at all.
　As a result, she's always away from us, always separate from us.
　I didn't think Kyouka-san was bothered by that.

'Yes, she does. But why Kroki?'

　Wouldn't it be nice to learn from Chiyuki-san again? Why is it Kroki?

'No, from what I've heard about you, Sirone, I've heard that you're very good at teaching, Kuroki. So you can go to .......
'I see. It's true that Kroki is better at teaching than I am, but it's only the swordsmanship part.

　Sometimes little kids come to my parents' dojo to teach.
　At that time, Kroki and I sometimes act as Shihan-dai.
　In the beginning, most of them come to me to learn, but in the end, they go to Kuroki's side for some reason.
　I'm a little shocked by that.

'Still, that's fine. I just want to give them something to do!

　Kyouka says, taking my hand.
　It's hard to refuse this feeling.

'All right, Kyouka-san ....... I'll talk to Kuroki.'
'Thank you, Sirone!　I'm coming to repay you!

　Kyouka smiles happily.
　Well, I don't know if Kuroki will tell me or not. But Kroki is kind, so I guess it will be okay.
　But still, what is Kroki doing now?
　I think of Kuroki, who is staying at home with Raina in Thessesia.




◆Sizfe the War Maiden

'Shit!　Why can't I go over there!

　Zephyr the Wind Brave complains.
　At the front of the ship are Shirone-sama and Kyouka-sama in their swimsuits.

''What are you stupid again, you ....... Kaya-sama will kill you if you do that.

　Sister Kayna gasped and chided Zepha.
　Kaya-sama is a scary person. And I hear that his strength is equal to that of Chiyuki-sama and the others.
　You will not only have to deal with the consequences if you anger someone like that.
　It's a good thing that you're not the only one. We shouldn't be doing anything.
　I'm sure you'll be able to tell the difference.
　I'm not going to be able to control those lizardmen without shackling them.
　Zephyr would be a dead giveaway to look at someone like that in a disgusting way.

But hey, those two beauties are dressed like that. It's only polite to look at them, don't you think? Hey, don't you think so, fire hero?

　Zephyr speaks to Novis next to him.

'No, well ...... certainly ......'

　Novis nodded.

'Aww, ...... Novis. Are you trying to piss off Master Syrone again?

　I get angry at Novice.

'But hey, Sizfe ....... It would be a loss of life to not see Kyouka-sama and Shirone-sama in that form, or whatever it is .......

　Novis replies, stretching the bridge of his nose.

'What are you talking about, you're ......'

　I hold my head down. This idiot doesn't seem to know what it's like to learn.
　I certainly know the feeling.
　Kyouka-sama has large breasts and a great figure with a thin waist.
　And although Shirone-sama's chest is a size smaller than Kyouka-sama's, it's big enough for the general public. And she has slender legs. They were as nice as Kyouka-sama's.
　They're both in the same great shape as Kyouka-sama, even if I'm a woman. I can understand why you want to look at them.
　But I can't let these idiots go to Shirone-sama. I owe Master Shirone my life. I'm not going to let him get in the way.
　Even though he rescued me, I was just collapsed in the labyrinth and never met that dark knight.
　But even so, I don't know what would have happened if I had been saved too late. Besides, it was probably thanks to Shirone that the Goddess was able to heal him directly.
　How lucky I am to be healed by such a beautiful goddess.
　I've heard that Goddess Raina is pure and pretty, and has a gentle and compassionate heart. Seeing her beauty, that rumor must be true.
　It's an amazing experience to meet the goddess in person.
　That's why I'm so grateful to Lady Shirone.
　The reason I'm here in the first place is because I wanted to repay the debt of gratitude for that.
　Besides, Novis might cause trouble for Sirone-sama. If Novis did something stupid, I had to stop him.
　I was going to come alone, but my sister Kayna came with me.
　However, I miscalculated that I didn't expect Zepha, the brave man of the wind, and Nephim, the brave man of the water, to come with me as well. They must have come with some sort of plan in their own way.
　However, I don't like the fact that it's kind of like having more Novices.

''Ha!

　Suddenly there is a splash.
　With a splash, a man lands on the deck of the boat.
　The one who came up from the river is Nephim, the brave man of water. He can also act in the water. So he dives into the water with the lizardmen.
　Nephim drops the water out of his hair with an unnerving gesture. Nephim's light blue hair shakes and splashes of water dance around.
　Nephim is in a bathing suit because he was in the river a while ago. It's not as good as Master Rage, but he's also a pretty boy. I'm sure you'll be able to find a great deal more to say about it.

Fufu ......

　Nephim exhales and goes to the edge of the boat and kneels down. The spot where Nephim kneels is where the ladder down to the river is attached.
　Then a woman emerges from the water near the ladder.
　It's Regina, one of Kyouka-sama and Shirone-sama's followers.
　She had dived into the river to command the lizardmen on behalf of Shirone-sama.
　From what I've heard, Regena-san was a princess from some country.
　Why would that make her a squire? I'm sure you've been through a lot, haven't you?
　However, she must be quite capable of commanding a lizardman, unlike the squire male who was beaten by Novis.
　In fact, she seems to be able to act in the water just like Nephim.
　Regena-san reaches out and grabs the ladder and comes up slowly.

'Regena, please have a hand.'

　Then Nephim extends his hand. However, Regina ignores him and goes up to the ship.
　The ignored Nephim laughs.
　Novis and Zepha laugh at the scene. Totally you guys are .......

''Um, go ahead, .......''

　I hold out a cloth to wipe myself off.

'Thank you. ......'

　Rigena bowed to me. She has a soft expression for me.
　Rijena takes a cloth from me and wipes herself off. She is also quite beautiful.
　Chestnut-colored hair and white skin. It's not as good as Kyouka-sama and Shirone-sama, but where it comes out, it comes out, and where it retracts, it retracts.
　She wears a swimsuit, so you can visibly see how good her figure is.
　Are there only beautiful women who serve Master Rage?
　Honestly, as a woman, I'm starting to lose confidence in myself.
　I'm the smallest woman on this ship with the smallest breasts. Even if I wasn't a member of the Feriah congregation, I wouldn't have the confidence to be in a swimsuit.

That's not quite .......
Yeah.

　Zepha and Novice stretch their noses as they see Regina in her swimsuit wiping herself off.
　I want to slam these guys into the river, but I hold back.

"Stop looking at my regena with furtive eyes. Stop looking at my regena with those dirty eyes.

　Nephim stands in front of Ms. Regina, blocking the view of Novice and the others.

'Ah!　That's not fair, Nephim!　You're the only one who looks good!
'To begin with!　Since when did Mr. Regena become yours!

　The two of them complain.
　Nephim looks at them and laughs with a huff.

'By the way, Regina. Would you like to have dinner with me tonight?

　Nephim says with a serious face.
　Apparently, even in the river, Nephim was hitting on Regena-san.
　It seems Rigena-san's coldness to Nephim has something to do with that.

'Um, ....... I'm sorry, I already have an important husband. Therefore, I cannot accept your offer.

　Rigena-san says to Nephim with a troubled look on her face.
　The words cause a surprise from Novis and Zepha, as well as sister Keina.
　Naturally I was surprised too.

'Huh~ I didn't know you had a husband. This guy is a surprise.''

　Sister Kayna opens her eyes and looks at Ms. Regena.
　Regena-san was married? She looks like she's about the same age as me.
　I'm a little shocked.

''Regena-san!　So you had a husband!　What kind of person are you!

　I can't help but ask.
　Since Rage-sama is not married, I'm guessing that by husband you don't mean Rage-sama. What kind of person is he?
　As a believer in the Goddess of Marriage, I'm very curious.

She's very warm and kind: ......

　Rigena replies with a huff and a laugh.
　That smile is very nice.
　I can't help but snort. Honestly, I'm jealous.
　I glance to the side and see that Nephim is depressed.
　I feel a little sorry for him, but he'll be more mature now.
　But still, what kind of a husband would make Regina-san look like this?
　I wanted to see him once.




Dark Knight Kroki.

I really don't know if this is the right thing to do: ......

　I can't help but say out loud.

'What's the matter, Kroki?'

　Raina listens as she stands beside herself and crosses her arms.
　Raina has her hood up now, hiding her face.
　That's probably true too. They are in the main street of the Republic of Ariadia now. If a beautiful woman like Raina walked around with her face showing, there would be a lot of commotion.
　It would be more noticeable if they hid their faces, but in this world, it's not unusual for devout Feria congregations to walk with their faces covered, so it's not noticeable.

'No. ....... Is it okay for us to be in this place when Sirone and the others are investigating?

　Now, Sirone and the others are supposed to be investigating the Kish River.
　And yet, are they allowed to come here to play?
　And I'm worried about the Lizardmen. As a result, I had to force the lizardmen to stop taking revenge on the humans.
　That's what's stuck in my mind.
　They worship themselves like gods. It's not like I'm trying to save them. That's what's bothering me.
　It's not that I don't want to take the side of the human race, but I also didn't like the fact that my actions were inconsistent.

It's not a problem. You'll be fine if you leave it to Cyrone and the others. Besides, you have your own apostles to deal with.''

　Raina says with a laugh.
　So I'm a little curious. How did he realize that Ligeena was his apostle? It's like even Cyrone doesn't realize it.
　Regena is in command of the Lizardmen on her behalf. The Lizardmen are also obedient to their own apostle, Regena.

''Hah ....... Is that good by the way?　You can't come out without telling the boys.

　Normally, Raina is protected by her bodyguards. But now she isn't.
　The reason why we are here is because Raina said she wanted to see the human world.
　The reason we don't have any guards with us is because if we walk in a large group, we'll stand out.
　Still, one or two people would be good to bring an escort with them, but Raina didn't want to.
　Of course, there was no way the guards would allow Raina to act alone. Therefore, Raina came out silently with only herself.

I'll be fine. You don't need another bodyguard when you're here, do you?　So be my knight today.

　Saying that, Raina comes closer to the body.
　She's not in the form of a dark knight right now. What she's wearing is also cloth clothing. Because of that, Raina's soft bulge is against her left arm.

''Well, I certainly agreed to be your knight today, but ....... Wouldn't it have been nice to have a word with the guards?

　Raina has come here without saying anything to her guards.
　Because if she says it, they will naturally oppose her.
　And the reason why he agreed to work with Raina is because he was asked to pay her for helping the woman named Sisyphe.
　The quid pro quo is to walk the human city alone as an escort.
　I don't know why I'm alone with myself. But even if the inside is good, the outside is good, so it's not that I don't mind being with Raina. That's why we're together.

It's fine. I'm sure you'll be able to find out more about this.

　Raina asks curiously.
　I can't tell you that it's because you press your breasts against me.
　It's because your large breasts are pressed against your arms, making it difficult to walk ...... because parts of your body are like stones.

'No, it's nothing in particular ....... For that matter, where would you like to go?

　Ariadia is one of the largest cities in the world, so there's quite a bit to see. Is there anywhere else Raina would like to go?

'Oh, I wish you'd decide. You've been doing a lot of research, haven't you?
What: ...... How did you know that?

　Certainly I was looking into the sights of the Republic of Ariadia.
　This is because I came to the big city because I wanted to see the sights. So I also got a book for that purpose. In this Republic of Ariadia, there are paper machines and printing machines made by dwarves, so this kind of guide book is easy to find.
　But how does Raina know that she has a guide book?

Why? Because when I walked into your room, I found a guide book to the Republic of Ariadia.

　Raina says as if it's natural.

'Oh, I see. ......!　Did you go into the room?
Yes. Am I a bad person?
"I wonder if I shouldn't have..." ......

　Do I have any privacy of my own? I don't think that was indeed seen, but I'm not going to let my guard down or be caught off guard.

'You don't need to worry about the details anymore. Come on, let's go. Hey, where are you going to take me first?

　Raina whispers in a sweet voice.
　Raina's beautiful face is so close to me. I'm so nervous about that that I can't complain.
　Okay, let's take her down the alley to do something disgusting like this.
　...... Sorry, I'm just kidding. Let's stop thinking about stupid things.

'Hmmm, yes, ....... Where shall we go?

　Clearing my mind of mundane thoughts, I think to myself, "The first thing that comes to mind is a public bathhouse.
　The first thing that comes to mind would be a public bathhouse.
　The large baths of Ariadia are not just bathing facilities, they are provided with various entertainment facilities. If you want to play, that would be a good place to do so.
　However, there is also a problem. Perhaps because the large baths are dedicated to the goddess Feria, the separation of the s*xes is strictly enforced. Even if you go together, you will be separated from Reena. It's not suitable for men and women to go together.
　Other than that, the arena is closed and the theater is not yet open.
　If that is the case, where should we go?

How about the Fountain of Tride?
The Fountain of Tride?

'Yes, it is a dwarven fountain built as a terminus for the country's water supply. It is said to have a magnificent sculpture with a statue of the Sea King Triden at its center, surrounded by beautiful mermaid statues.
　This water supply facility in Ariadia was built by the dwarves.
　The Fountain of Tride was built as a terminus for it.
　Triden the Sea King is the god of water, and the fountain is also a tribute to him.

Hmmm, a tribute to Triden: "Hmmm, a tribute to Triden: ....... I don't think a fountain dedicated to that one is a good idea ....... But I don't mind if you're with me.

　This is how we both walk. Soon, we reached the Triede's Fountain.
　The Triede's Fountain was quite beautiful. The Triede's Fountain is not a natural spring, as it was built as a terminus for the water supply, but a fountain with a fountain in the middle, 10 meters in diameter. There is a fountain in the middle of the 10 meter diameter spring. The fountain is surrounded by statues of the Sea King Triden.
　The dwarves made the statues based on the plans of the famous designer.
　There are many people around the Tride Fountain. From their appearance, they are probably not residents of Ariadia, but tourists from other countries.

'Hey, Kroki. What are those people doing here?

　Raina says, looking at the tourists.
　The tourist is throwing something into the fountain.

'Oh, perhaps that was a wish,'
A wish?
'Yes, they say if you throw money into the fountain, your wish will come true. Do you want to try it?

　Saying this, I took out a Tucum coin from my pocket.
　Tewkam coin is the coin issued by the Republic of Ariadia. It can be used not only in the Alliance of Ariad, but also in the distant Republic of St. Renaria.
　And the Tukam currency unit is also used in other areas.

'Humans are weird, how they get their wishes granted when they throw these things.

　Raina looks at the copper coin curiously.
　From Raina's point of view, the existence of money would be a mystery.
　The gods don't use money. This is because they don't need money.
　The gods can easily get most things without money. And the things that the gods want are not something they can put a price on. So they don't need money.

''I think it's interesting to me, though. By the way, if a man and woman throw a gold coin together, they can stay together forever.''

　Raina sounds surprised when she says this herself.

'I've never heard of that kind of magic before.

　Raina shook her head in disbelief.

'It's not magic, but it's ....... Well ...... what do you mean by that, or so people say, or something like that ......

　I don't know how to explain myself. The language gets weird.

'It's getting more and more confusing: ......

　Raina doesn't seem to be getting it right.

'Um, ....... I think it's good for me to try to imitate a human. Well, I can't say I'm forcing myself.

　I try to put away my coppers. It's not something I have to do. I just miss it.

"Wait, Kroki. I don't understand, but it's worth a try.

　Raina popped her hand.

'I see.'

　I laugh a little to myself and try to get the copper coins out again. It would be tasteless to do nothing at this point. It's just a matter of time.
You should do it.

'No, Kroki. It's not the coppers you're throwing, it's the gold. You have them, don't you?
What?

　I'm surprised myself. Did I not hear the explanation I just gave?
　But if you're motivated to do it, why don't you make a difference?
　I'll give myself a gold coin, not a copper.

'I'll throw them together, Kroki.

　Raina's white hand grasps the hand holding the gold coin.

'What, Raina ......?'

　I throw a gold coin with Raina, puzzled by my own confusion.
　The gold coins fall like a parabola, right near the fountain in the center of the fountain.

''Huh, it's good to imitate a human.

　I can't see Raina's face, but I can tell she's enjoying herself.
　I'm relieved to see that.
　Honestly, I'm not sure I'm capable of entertaining a woman. So I'm relieved that she smiled at me.
　But then again, does Raina have to be my beloved Rage?
　It bothered me a bit, but the beautiful woman would be happy to see me. So let's not think about it.

'Well then, Kroki. Where shall we go next?
Yes. ......

　I was thinking about where I was going next.




Dark Knight Kroki.

Raina, what's going on with you all of a sudden?

　Following the Fountain of Tride, we go to the Port of Ariadia after seeing the Ariadia Senate Building.
　The Port of Ariadia is home to a huge, magical cold storage facility for storing food brought in by ship.
　After the two of us eat ice cream made with the cold air from that refrigerator, Raina suddenly walks into an alleyway that is not very popular.
　Once in the alleyway, Raina takes a hood.

'Wind ....... I've been wearing it for so long it's hard to breathe.'

　Indeed, Raina had been wearing a hood ever since she came here. As expected, it would be hard to breathe.
　But the hood must be worn.
　Despite hiding her face, somehow Raina was getting a lot of attention.
　If you take off the hood, it's not enough to attract attention.
　Utterly, this goddess has too much of a presence.

''Are you okay, Raina?''

　I worry about Raina. She's a woman, even though she's a god. And she has promised to be a knight just for today. So you'll have to protect her.

"Hmm, I'm a little tired.

　Then Raina leans in closer.
　Raina's wet eyes stare at her. Her little pink lips let out a hot breath.
　My heart starts to throb as she stares at me with her wet eyes.
　The expression on Raina's face is very bad.
　No, it's already really bad .......
　If you give me that kind of expression, I'm not going to be able to do it a hundred times in Sukebe, sir!
　And here we are in an alleyway and there's not a soul around. It was an opportunity.
　The devil and the angel inside me argued with each other.

　Demon Kroki: "That's good. No one is looking at you. I came to this unpopular place on my own. This goddess must want it too. Take all your clothes off!
　Angel Kroki: "Devil, you are mistaken. It is outrageous to take off a woman's clothes. It's more exciting to do it without taking your clothes off!

　I thought he was an angel, but he was a fallen angel. d*mn the world!
　But my rational mind warns me. This is a death flag.
　We can't just let it slide. I have a feeling it's going to be a big problem.
　I can't trust this goddess in the first place.
　Raina laughs with a giggle.
　My thoughts go round and round. Honestly, I want to let my lust take over like this.
　It was that time.
　The air trembles.

''This is a ward ......''

　The space around here has been closed off by a ward.
　And I feel someone approaching.

'I didn't know you'd come to an empty place yourself ....... You must be very eager to be killed by me, Goddess Raina.

　A person approaching calls out to him. It's a woman.
　Both you and Raina look at the person who called out to you in surprise. Perhaps this woman is the one who trapped her and Raina in the room.
　And the woman who called out to her looks familiar.

'You're Atrana, I believe?'

　The woman is Atrana, the wife of Tormarkis, a merchant of the Temple of Raina. I met her once.
　She must have been the one who arranged their own accommodation.

I knew that even though you were hiding your face, Raina," he said. Let's get revenge for years of bitterness here!

　That Atrana points at Raina with a drawn-out smile. And Atrana is aware of Raina.
　Who is she?

'Raina ....... Who is she? And what did you do?

　Considering the nature of this goddess, it's not surprising that she's resentful at some point.

''I don't know either. Who are you?''

　Raina shakes her head and looks at Atrana as she answers.

'Hmmm ....... You don't know me, ....... You can't say that after seeing this figure, Raina!

　Atrana's lower body changes as Atrana shouts.

'Spiders!

　He exclaimed.
　Atrana's lower half of her body has turned into a giant spider. Fangs sprouted from Atrana's mouth, and her face changed to look a bit insect-like.
　Atrana was not human.
　She could feel the sweat coming out of her body.
　I was completely unaware of her identity.
　She was completely human. I didn't think anyone could hide their identity so completely.

'No way. ....... You are .......

　Raina was also surprised to see Atrana change. Apparently she knows who she's dealing with.

'Kuk, you look surprised, Raina. 'Yes, it's me.'
...... who?

　Raina's words almost make me squirm.
　Atrana is almost stiffening too.

'You don't remember me, ....... 'You d*mn goddess!　Don't tell me you've forgotten this Atranaqua, Raina!

　Atrana Amended Atranaqua glares at Raina.

'Just kidding, Atranaqua. I can't forget it even if I wanted to ....... Are you here to complain to me again?'

　Raina and Atranaqua seem to have known each other for a long time. What kind of relationship did they have?

What's with the attitude!　You seduced my husband and yet you are so slippery!

　Atranaqua yells at me.

'My husband ......?　Oh, you mean that persistent male deity. I didn't try to seduce him. It's just that she made a pass at me in the first place. Rather, it was more of a nuisance to me.

　Raina is unperturbed. She's used to this kind of thing.

'My dear husband would never do that!　Of course you seduced him!　Just because you look a little better than I do doesn't make you feel good!

　Atranaqua's face looks like a cross between an insect and a human. A human would say that Raina is more beautiful.
　And what does her husband look like? It bothers me soooo much.

'If you know you're ugly, why don't you try to get a little cleaner? Though, no matter how hard you try, you'll never beat me.
What? ！！！！！！

　Raina giggles and Atranaqua gets angry.
　To sum up the story, it seems that Atranakua's lover cheated on Raina in the past. Atranakua seems to be angry about that.
　It makes my head hurt to listen to it.
　Very ............ unimportant.

'Booth!　Booth!
Ky. ------ ！！！！！！！！！

　Raina taunts Atranaqua while hiding behind her own back.
　A ridiculously low-level conflict is unfolding before our eyes.
　If the congregation saw this image of Raina, they would be saddened.

'Ugh! That's enough!　Listen to me, Raina!　I'm the one who lured your man, the brave man of light, into the labyrinth! Hmmm, now that man is probably in the labyrinth making love to Lavrus' daughter! Now repent, Raina!

　Atranaqua laughs triumphantly.

'So ...... rage is ......'

　Raina sounds like she's stifling her emotions. Then she raises both ends of her shapely eyebrows and glares at Atranaqua.
　The expression on Raina's face makes my heart ache.
　After all, Raina is ...... about Rage.
　Maybe she was actually worried about Rage. It's not like that until now. But did he or she endure a healthy dose of it?
　I'm ashamed that I didn't realize it. I can't see how a woman feels, so I can't have it.
　I should have been nicer to Raina if this was the case.

'Ho ho ho ho, you must be frustrated, Raina. As for me, I'd like you to be more frustrated. ...... Hmph!　You're a good fit for the unimportant ordinary man over there!

　Atranaqua points at herself and laughs.
　He is called an ordinary man, and it dips a bit.
　Are you an ordinary man ....... Is that so ....... He's a useless man who doesn't even know the heart of a woman anyway .......

'What?! Say it again!

　Raina shouts out.

'Ho ho ho!　I'll tell you as many times as I can!　You'll be a good fit for the guy over there who looks weak and fragile and can only carry a load and doesn't look like he's going to be able to get stuck with chopsticks or a stick!

　Atranaqua points to herself again.
　You don't have to say that much: .......
　I'm aware that I'm not a good guy. But it hurts to be told to your face.
　It's a good thing that you're not going to be able to get a good look at this, but I'm going to try to make it look good.
　Always keep it clean. Trim my hair. I work out so that I don't get fat. But is it not enough?

They say we're a good fit: ......

　Raina's shoulders are trembling.
　After all, she doesn't like being called a good match for herself. Maybe the reason they've been together so far is because he was forcing himself to help Rage.
　I get curious and look at Raina's face.
　Is she smiling ........................?

Um, Lena. ......?

　Why do you look so happy?

'Wait a minute, Raina!　Why are you smiling?　You must be frustrated that your man was taken!
'Yes, that's partly to my chagrin. It's just, Atranaqua ......, you're wrong about a lot of things. Your head is as disappointing as your appearance. That's why your husband is cheating on you too.

　Raina says with a cold laugh.

'Ki------!　What did you say? Forget it, I'll kill you!　Hate your own stupidity for acting without entangling your guards!
'Without an escort, huh ....... You are really dumb. If you are a knight of my escort, you are here, aren't you?

　Raina points to herself.
　'Honestly, I don't want you to get involved in this stupid fight.

'Hmph!　That's what you call a bodyguard who looks so weak!　Then I'll kill him first!　Come out!

　Atranaqua held up his hand.
　Two large shadows come out from behind Atranaqua. Two of them come out from behind themselves.

'Golem?'

　What came out was a metal golem, with a two-meter body and four arms each holding a sword.

''That's right, a battle golem. This golem is a replica of the golem that the god Heybos made as the guardian of the labyrinth. However, this golem is made from the same materials, so it's quite powerful. With four of these golems and me fighting together, even if you are the goddess of battle, you will not be able to win.

　Atranaqua laughs.

'Is that how you're going to beat me, Atranaqua?

　Raina doesn't lose her spare expression.

'Why!　Why did you do that?　Why not fear! There are no guards, and the only person there is a man who doesn't seem to matter!　You couldn't even call for help inside the wards!　How can you be so comfortable with that?　Enough, go, go, golems, kill them!

　Four golems are coming towards you.

'What can I do? ......

　I mutter to myself and call up my armor and sword. The dark knight's armor and magic sword are connected to you across time and space.
　You can summon them no matter where you are.

''What!　The Dark Knight?!

　When Atranaqua saw herself in the form of a dark knight, she let out a cry of surprise.
　However, I didn't mind and moved quickly to the enemy that came at me from the front.
　When the golem's sword pointed at you is swept away with the magic sword, the golem loses its stance and collides with another golem.
　The strength of a golem is determined by the materials and the strength of its creator. If it was a golem created by the Hayboss God, but it wouldn't feel strong from a duplicate.
　Besides, the golem is not capable of fine movements. The sword movements are also very monotonous and easy to read. This would be an easy win.
　When I see the two golems collide and temporarily get stuck, I quickly jump back and take on the two golems coming from behind.
　You guide the four swords of the golems coming from behind to your left and slash their bodies as they slash through the sky.
　They may be made of a special magical alloy, but the magic swords I got from Modes can easily slash them.
　Then, he moves while spinning as it is and heads for the golem on the right rear that came towards Raina.
　The golem swings its four swords. I flick the swords with my magic sword and slash off the four arms and head.
　The golem that came from the front begins to move again, so you leap to move and deal with the two golems.
　The two golems' monotonous swords are flicked away with their swords as they turn their bodies to avoid them, and when they pass them off, they turn and slash them off at the same time.
　The four golems then turn into mere pieces of metal.
　Meanwhile, Raina hasn't moved a single step. What will she do if she can't move well?
　Maybe you trust me, but I'm not that strong. I want you to move a little.

'Such ...... golems are ...... in an instant. It's a lie .......

　Atranaqua's voice quivered.
　'I'm sorry Atranakua, but it was very weak.

'I'm sorry, Atranakua. My knight is strong.'

　Raina giggles.

'd*mn!　Take, a thread that can cut through my iron!

　The walls of the buildings around you are slashed apart as Atranaqua swings her arm.
　I move my left arm, which I don't have a sword with me, and grab the ultra-fine thread that came towards me.

''Lie!　What do you mean you grabbed this thread of mine?!
'I'm sorry. I have to interrupt you. ......

　I fumble for the thread so that Raina won't get hurt.
　Atranaqua tries to move the thread with her hands, but I won't let her do that.

'Oh no. ....... That's how weak that guy looked. I didn't know he was a dark knight .......

　I'd like to say I'm sorry for looking weak, but I'm grateful that you let your guard down.
　Atranaqua didn't completely see herself as an enemy. If he had been careful, it might have turned out differently.
　But it's too late now. I let out a black flame.
　The black flame burns out the threads.
　Seeing this, Atranaqua tries to rush away.

"Sorry, but I won't let you go!　It's the binding of the black blood rose!

　As he chanted his magic, a black rose, Ibarra, came out and bound up Atranaqua's body.

'Nonsense!　Isn't this the magic that Zarxis uses!

　As Atranaqua said, this magic was the magic used by Zarxis in the Roxx Kingdom.
　He looked it up and learned it.
　And it seems that Atranacua knows Zarxis. We're not going to let him get away with it.

"I won, Atranacua.

　Raina walks over to Atranaqua and looks down.

''Guguugu ....... I didn't expect you to join forces with the Demon King. I didn't expect that. ......

　Atranaqua grunted, but she couldn't escape her own Ibarra.
　Technically, Raina hadn't joined forces with Modes. But it's a pain in the ass to explain.

'You're out of luck, Atranaqua. I'm safer now than I am with a thousand angels protecting me.'

　Raina laughed high and mighty.



◆Silone, the maiden of the sword.

　I met up with Kuroki and his friends at the inn and asked them about the events in the Republic of Ariadia.

That's what happened ....... I didn't know that he wasn't human ....... I didn't realize that.
'Yes, I was not thinking, Miss: ......
'Yes, ....... If we didn't, they were able to see what we were doing. ......

　We nodded at Kyouka's words.
　Atranaqua's mimicry was perfect. I hadn't realized that she wasn't human either.
　It's dangerous to leave her on the loose. I'm glad we were able to catch her.

'But Raina was aware of it, wasn't she?　That's why you left Kroki in Thessia, isn't it?

　Unlike us, Raina was the only one who should have noticed. That's why she left Kroki here.
　It's impressive that he used himself as a bait to lure Atranaqua, who is hiding himself, into hiding.
　The reason he kept it a secret even from us must be so that the other party wouldn't notice.
　If they found out, Atranaqua would have escaped.
　They say that in order to deceive an enemy, you have to start with an ally, but if possible, I wanted you to tell me.

'What?'

　But when I say this, Raina gets a surprised look on her face.

"What?

　Could it be different? If that's the case, then what did he and Kuroki go to the Republic of Ariadia for, just the two of them?

'Oh, yes!　That's right, Shirone!
I knew it. That's great, Raina.

　I nodded yes.
　That's the only reason I can think of for Kuroki and Raina to be together.
　There's no way a beautiful woman like Raina would date Kroki.
　I thought about something a little stupid.

'I see that the investigation over there has been completed. What are the results?'
'Regena told me the results of the investigation. She's supposed to be meeting with Kroki right now, along with the Lizardman.

　Ligeena is now in another room with the Lizardmen, reporting her findings to Kroki.
　Lizardman only obeys Kroki.
　He's listening to the conversation in the other room because it might be difficult for him to report back when we're together.
　I haven't heard any details from Ligeena, but I think I've found out something. Now we can finally enter the labyrinth.
　A lot of people are working to help Rage and his friends. The goddess Reena is also working hard to save Rage-kun.
　And Kroki has come too. So I'm sure they'll be okay.

'Hang on, guys. We're coming to help you.



Dark Knight Kroki

Good job, Regina. And you guys.
'No, I won't suffer any hardship if I can help my husband.
"Mottainaio.

　Rigena and Lizardman bowed their heads.
　Thanks to Regena and the others, I have a general idea of the geography around the labyrinth.
　The fifth level where Rage and the others are located is not perfect since it wasn't originally built as a prison.
　And if I combine it with the blueprint I got from the Hayboss God and the information I got from Atranaqua, I can see how to attack it.

''Hey, Dark Knight!　I've told you everything I know, so hurry up and let me go!

　Atranaqua yelled at herself as she was tied up.
　Atranakua spoke honestly.
　It's not like he's pledging allegiance to the Evil God Lavrus, the Lord of the Labyrinth.

''I appreciate your honesty in speaking honestly to me. But I can't let you go like this. I will send you back to Nargol.

　When I say this, Atranaqua looks unhappy.
　But even if you didn't hand them over to Raina, you should be grateful. If you do, Atranaqua will get a bad experience.
　And I don't think Modes would do anything untoward. So I'll send it to Nargol.
　Well, we've gathered the information. Tomorrow, we will finally enter the labyrinth.
　But to be honest, I don't want to go there to help Rage.
　This is what I thought.