Next, Yataro. How about defense?
You know that Theon will be joining us in the defense and that there are few invaders in the area.

　Yataro blurts out, putting a hand to his white-tinted beard.

'Experience....'
That's true. The defense is a piece of cake, but there isn't enough experience to fill the squad you want to train.

　The current state of affairs, known as the Thirteen Deadly Stars (Zodiacs) - some humans are invading with the government's promotion, but their numbers are decreasing daily. Although there's a lot of money to be received if we liberate the controlled territory, there's not a single past that has been liberated in my controlled territory. Furthermore, the fact that high-level humanity was being driven to deal with the Demon King Kaoru in the south of the county was also a major factor.

''Letting him release one dominant domain........hmmm, no. The disadvantages are too great.''
No.
Do you think feeding them more food would change their eating habits?

　Bait - that is, an item to put in the treasure chest.

What do you think?　It depends on where the treasure chest is placed, but if it's too shallow, they could steal the contents of the chest and escape with it. If they're ambushed, they could be warned that it's a trap, which would be difficult.

　And when it comes down to it, what do you think will bite you?

What is the deepest layer the invaders have ever reached?
Ten levels. But that was when we were at war with Suzu City Hall. Nowadays, it's only four levels, or maybe three.

　The best fodder for the invaders - honor and a lot of money. In other words, the liberation of the territory they control.

　But they can't actually be liberated.

'For example - we're close to liberation!　And why not set expectations?
Oh..... You're going to skimp on the deepest part?
No, that would be too obvious.
What do you suggest, then?

　I respond to Yataro's question by drawing a simulation in my head.

'Make the hierarchy shallow. For example, how about setting up a [True Core] on the fourth level?
'Ho..... Not [Expand], but [Shrink]?
'It will. At first, I'll order Tusk to manipulate information and spread rumors that the deepest level is the fourth level, as long as it's only part of my control area. After that, I'll show the invading humans the four levels of [true core]. How about this one?
It's worth a try.

　Yataro's eyes narrow in amusement at my opinion.

'However, we can't really be freed. The deepest part of the decoy's territory of control...
I know. I'll put Izayoi and Saburo in position.

　Yataro continues my words with a smile on his face.

'If it goes well, we'll have more territory to control as a decoy and make adjustments.
Woo hoo. Looking forward to it.

　Thus ended the discussion with Yataro on defense.


　◆


Secondly, Chloe, how's the invasion going?
'Ha!　We are making progress without a hitch!

　Chloe straightens up to answer my question.

'Layla and the others, how are you doing with the new members?'
No problem!
What's troubling you?
No, sir!

　Chloe answers my question in no time.

　Well, that's what Chloe and the others would do........

'As you know, protecting the lives of my family members, including Chloe, is my top priority. Keep up the diligence in the future.
'Ha!　Words of mercy...!　Thank you!

　The discussion with Chloe ends easily.

　That leaves--

Finally, Lina, how's the invasion going?
It's a little bit of a coordination problem but it's not a problem.

　Lina replies in a quiet tone.

''Lina, how are you and those former Demon Lord guys doing?''
'I don't know I don't think it's bad but...'
What do you really think?
'You can't lead them perfectly, can you?

　Lina replies without losing her expression.

'I see. What's particularly tough to handle?'
Takahara and Seta.
"Oh...

　The answer that came out of Lina's mouth defied my expectations.

'What about Sarah?'
'Despite what she says and does, Sarah is very aware of her surroundings. She has perfect support from the rear.
What about the snoring?
'I have tremendous problems in word and deed, but when it comes down to it, I act more calmly than anyone else. Honestly, isn't Hibiki better suited to be a leader than me?　I think.

　Sarah and Hibiki were more highly regarded than I expected.

'And Takahara?'
In a good way and a bad way....

　Red - the demon species' subordinates are belligerent. At times, they act in a manner that could be described as runaway. Takaharu, who is supposed to be both a former demon king and a former human being, is a higher order of demon....... It's an odd thing to say.

　I can't help but chuckle at Lina's sketchy comment.

'What about Setanta?'
'Seta is with Takahara. When they see the enemy, they rush out in front of them. There's no coordination and no bother. The fact that they are less powerful than Takahara, makes it harder for us.
I see.

　Setanta is a created subordinate. Is his childlike innocence and belligerence a congenital trait of his race, or is it the influence of the destination he was entrusted with - Izayoi and Saburou? I turn my attention to Yataro.

'Setabo is that thing..... It's a good thing that you're not the only one. And when Saburo defeated the most, he was happy to tease Setabo.

　Yataro replies with a soft smile.

　'I see.......so it was Saburo.

'Didn't Yataro see that and stop you?
See those two having so much fun?
Yes.
I'm sorry..... Seeing these two enjoying themselves like brothers I couldn't stop myself. But Lina?
What?
That's what makes Setavo so obedient. You will listen to me, won't you?

　Yataro asks Lina, who turns around when her name is called.

'Honesty...?　That girl?
That's right. They obeyed me, and of course, they obeyed Izayoi's and Saburo's commands without a care in the world.
She's...?　Come to think of it, you were strangely nostalgic for Takahar, and you listened to him.
'Yes!　Lina, you should have a match with Setabo once. Once you beat him, I think he'll listen to you.
A match?
Yes. Do you want me to be there when you need me?

　Yataro smiles happily at Lina, who is confused.

''Okay..... I'll ask you later.''

　Thus, after this, Lina and Setanta held a mock battle. The result was a victory for Lina, who was superior to her swordsmanship.

　After this day, Setanta began to listen to her.