The morning after arriving in Bestia with the Alliance, we left the city once, passed through Alka, and teleported to the city of Krater, which is adjacent to the Golud Great Glacier and overlooks the Seryado Volcano in the distance.
At that time, we flew to Rio once and had reinforcements dispatched from there as well.
Well, Rio has to prepare for Solemne, so it’s only the First Platoon.
Naturally, we couldn’t bring Duke Arjan, so they moved to the Beast Carriage of the Second Platoon, and I left Rio to the First Order of the Second Platoon.
Since Emperor Hildegard was also accompanying us to the city of Krater, we were able to enter without incident. However, the Slume Lord only showed its face right before the city, and it seems the barrier was rendered meaningless. As a result, the city’s atmosphere has become somber, with very few people walking outside out of fear.
It’s amazing how it can exert such influence in just one appearance.
“Even though it was yesterday’s event, the impact is this significant…”
Emperor Hildegard, who was overlooking Krater from the observation deck, also wore a somber expression.
The Slume Lord descended in front of dozens of Sabers and Orders who were preparing defenses outside the city, and annihilated them in an instant.
It seems that only a few deaths occurred because it left immediately afterward, but still, many suffered severe injuries that left them unable to move, and quite a few lost limbs. Currently, they are being treated at the Krater Healer’s Guild, but I’ve heard that the treatment is progressing slowly because nearly half of them are High Class. Therefore, it has been decided that Mako and Carol, along with the S-rank Hunter and High Fairy Sliza of Lily Wish, will help with the treatment. Sliza is also a P-rank Healer, and Mako has also been promoted to P-rank. Of course, the G-rank Healer Yuri is also planning to help, but since he hasn’t evolved to High Class yet, he will be tasked with support duties alongside the other healers. After dropping off the healers at the Healer’s Guild, we headed to the Saber’s Guild office. The dispatched Orders are also there, and we need to hear more details about the Slume Lord’s attack.
“Emperor Hildegard!?”
As soon as we arrived at the office and Emperor hildegard alighted from the beast carriage, the Sabers immediately knelt.
“Please rise. Right now, dealing with the Slume Lord is more important than such formalities.”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
“We will hear the details. Please summon the Saber’s Master.”
“I regret to inform you that the Saber’s Master was injured when the Slume Lord appeared and is currently being treated at the Healer’s Guild.”
“Is that so? Then, the Sub-Saber’s Master?”
“… The Sub-Saber’s Master has died.”
“…. I see. In that case, please send someone who can explain the situation. And from the Orders as well.”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
As if familiar with the place, Emperor Hildegard led us into the office. From Wing Crest, there were myself, Prim, and Mana. From the Orders, there were Lord Rex, Rosemary, Muse. From the Alliance, there were Leader Faris and Cliff, along with various Raid Leaders.
“Excuse me. In place of the Saber’s Master and Sub-Saber’s Master, I am Albert Rioskudo, a G-rank Saber of the First Phantom Brigade, currently leading the Sabers.”
“I am Delfina Viavel, First Order of the 7th Platoon dispatched from the Order’s Guild in Torencia.”
After waiting for a few minutes in the main hall, Albert, a male High Human who leads the Sabers in place of the injured Saber’s Master and deceased Sub-Saber’s Master, and Delfina, a female High Orc who serves as the First Order of the 7th Dispatch Platoon, arrived. However, if my memory serves me right, wasn’t the First Order of the 6th Dispatch Platoon leading the Orders here? Ah, the First Order refers to the unit commander, and in this case, it refers to the commanders of prototype beast carriages No. 2 through No. 10.
“Thank you for your hard work. Lord Delfina, what happened to the First Order of the 6th Platoon?”
“They lost their lives during a recent confrontation with the Slume Lord.”
Seriously. I heard that there were some casualties from the Order’s Guild, but even a First Order died. Other casualties included 8 Sabers, 3 Hunters, and 6 Orders. Apparently, 8 of them were High Class. But the deaths are not the main issue; the severe injuries are even more problematic. After all, over 70 Sabers, Hunters, and Orders who were preparing defenses were injured to varying degrees, and more than half of them lost limbs, making it a complete disaster. Furthermore, some of them had their arms or legs bitten off, which is a major problem because the only way to fully heal them is to use Extra Healing.
During the subjugation battle 180 years ago, Ancient Class and High Class monsters also had their arms or legs taken, and while Elier-sama had her right arm and left leg bitten off, she was able to fully recover with the healing magic Extra Healing at that time. However, now that the Healer’s Guild has been established, Extra Healing has been separated from healing magic and classified as curative magic. Moreover, Extra Healing can only be used after being promoted to A-rank Healer, so there are fewer users than 180 years ago. Becoming a Healer Master requires promotion to A-rank Healer as an absolute condition, but High Healers are also few in number, so it is completely unknown how many days it will take to fully heal everyone.
“Let’s put aside their treatment for now. I know it’s bad, but they are not in mortal danger even with their limbs missing, so let’s have them rest for a while and then I’ll speak with my brother.”
Indeed, Mana is right, there’s nothing else we can do.
The Healer’s Guild expanded into Torencia about 30 years ago. Therefore, Torencia has no shortage of healers, but there are only a few High Healers. Furthermore, these High Healers are concentrated in Bestia and Rio, and none are in Krater. Therefore, to perform treatment, we would have to send them to Bestia or Rio, or bring High Healers to Krater. However, bringing them to Krater, where the Slume Lord appeared, would be difficult. Conversely, sending them there by land would visibly make them targets for the Slume Lord. This leaves us with the options of going through Alka or defeating the Slume Lord. Even going through Alka requires leaving Krater once, and if we were attacked there, it would be troublesome. Therefore, the quickest solution would be to defeat the Slume Lord.
“That’s how it is. Even if we repel it, it will leave grudges, so if possible, we want to subjugate it.”
“Indeed. But it’s a problem beyond our capabilities, so although it’s regrettable, the main force will be the three Ancient Class individuals.”
Faris and El, who summarized the conversation between Albert and Delfina, spoke, glancing at me and Prim.
“That’s right. As a compensatory measure, not as a replacement, leave the Icequake Tigers to us. I have fought in a labyrinth before, so I know the Icequake Tigers reasonably well. Based on that, I can say that with our current strength, a few of us could take down one.”
Did Caesar have combat experience against the Icequake Tiger? However, as it’s from someone with experience, that statement is reassuring to us as well.
“It’s the same for the Friezas Tiger and Icicle Tiger, but the problem is we don’t know how many there will be.”
“That’s true. Moreover, since the Slume Lord can fly, reconnaissance is also difficult.”
That’s also a problem. If it were a Catastrophe Species, Prim and I could scout from the sky, but with a Demise Species present, reconnaissance would be suicidal. After all, Demise Species have wings and can fly, and their magic can cause widespread damage. While the Orc Emperor and Orc Empress, who are also Demise Species, couldn’t fly, it’s generally accepted that they had only recently evolved and were not yet accustomed to their wings.
“As a rough estimate, it would be 180 years ago.”
Saya, the leader of Lily Wish and a G-rank Hunter, suggested considering the attack 180 years ago as a benchmark. If I recall correctly, 180 years ago, in addition to the Slume Lord and Icequake Tiger, there were 8 Friezas Tigers and 23 Icicle Tigers. In my memory, tigers don’t form packs, but that’s talking about tigers on Earth. On Helios Orb, tigers seem to live in packs. Therefore, the Slume Lord is the pack leader, and the other Tiger species are its subordinates.
“If it’s that many, I don’t think it will be a problem for us now. However, we must not be overconfident, and more importantly, we cannot say that the number won’t increase, so I think we should anticipate double the number.”
I agree with Faris. Demise Species are said to be able to increase Catastrophe Species, and since 180 years have passed since the last attack, we need to consider that the number of Icequake Tigers has definitely increased. Although they were dormant to recover their strength, it’s unlikely they increased their numbers once a year, but even so, we should be prepared for around ten.
“That’s true. But no matter how many there are, what we do won’t change. We need to cooperate with the Saber’s Guild, the Order’s Guild, and ourselves, but I think we can do it.”
“The problem is, as expected, the Avalanche Howl.”
That’s the biggest problem. Prim, Mako, and I are tasked with dealing with the Slume Lord. Mako predicted that the Slume Lord has a cunning personality, and it has likely learned from its defeat 180 years ago, so that possibility cannot be denied. Therefore, it is expected to escape if it finds itself in a desperate situation. Of course, we have no intention of letting it escape, but if there is even one Avalanche Howl, we might be distracted, making it highly possible that we will let it escape. Defeating the Avalanche Howl first is an option, but if we face A-C Rank Monsters, we will expose ourselves to significant danger, and it will be exploited. Therefore, it is undeniable that dealing with the Slume Lord and the Avalanche Howl simultaneously will be difficult even for us. Then, who will stop it? The answer is no one.
“If there’s an Avalanche Howl, we’ll stop it.”
Just as we were all thinking it, Bout stepped forward.
“Are you sure? Even with Trial Hearts, you won’t last long against A-C Rank monsters, will you?”
“Are you possibly trying to atone for your sins, Bout?”
“No way. It’s not about atoning for sins, nor do I have heroic or suicidal aspirations. However, I believe this is something we should do.”
He continued, saying he couldn’t express it well, but it wasn’t about atonement. However, all of Trial Hearts seemed to share Bout’s feelings, their expressions set with determination.
“You all agree too?”
“Yes.”
“Given who we’re up against, we might die, but that’s something we’ve always been prepared for as Hunters.”
“And, well, if we defeat the Slume Lord and Avalanche Howl here, Torencia can focus on dealing with Solemne, and it would be a good start, wouldn’t it? It wouldn’t be bad for us to be the foundation for that.”
Mira and Jung, and Soul, with slight smiles and confident expressions, spoke.
“Understood. Then, if the Avalanche Howl appears, Trial Hearts will handle it. However, there’s no need to defeat it. It’s selfish, but if we defeat the Slume Lord, Yamato and the others will be able to participate. Until then, just focus on buying time.”
“That’s the plan. We don’t think our attacks will work on A-C Rank monsters, after all.”
“We know their abilities well, too.”
If the Avalanche Howl appeared, it would be up to Trial Hearts to handle it. Of course, someone had to do it, but it being Trial Hearts was a bit unexpected.
“Then the remaining problem is when the Slume Lord will come with its pack.”
“That’s right. It takes two days by beast carriage from Seryado Volcano to Krater. However, we should assume that the Slume Lord and Tiger species can reach it in one day.”
“Indeed. Yesterday’s attack was in the early afternoon, so if we assume they started moving then, they could arrive as early as this evening, or at the latest, noon tomorrow.”
Indeed, when they will arrive is more important than who will handle what. After all, if we are ambushed, our carefully laid plans could go to waste. Therefore, predicting when they will arrive should be the first priority.
“We need to consider an attack in the middle of the night, but since Ancient Class and High Class monsters will be our main force, it seems we’ll have to rely on the Normal Class for the night watch.”
“That’s true. It’s not that Normal Class can’t fight, but this is too much to bear. We’ll need the cooperation of not only Hunters but also Sabers, but is that all right?”
“Of course. Given who we’re up against, during the recent attack, even High Class individuals were paralyzed by the Slume Lord’s might and unable to move properly.”
When confronting high-ranking monsters, even High Hunters and High Orders instantly recognize their impending death. In fact, Holy Grave and High Order, who found themselves confronting a Demise Species in Mylight, initially didn’t realize it was a Demise Species, but they intuitively understood they wouldn’t return alive and considered a suicidal charge. Black Army, Gracious Lynx, and Falcon’s Beak reportedly had the same thought the moment they saw the Guardian of the Instant Labyrinth, the Mithril Colossus. Therefore, if the Normal Class were to see the Slume Lord, there’s a possibility they would lose not only their will to fight but even consciousness. So, I apologize, but they will be on night watch to guard against an attack.
“Yamato, that’s not something you need to worry about.”
“That’s right. Rather, it means they also have something they can do, so I don’t think anyone will dislike it.”
It feels like my thoughts were read.
“You mean it’s not something to worry about, feeling sorry for them being on night watch?”
“That’s right. As Bout said, it means the Normal Class also have something they can do. Of course, there might be some who can’t accept it, but if asked whether they can stand before a Demise Species, the answer would definitely be no. If they can’t fight and can’t even do night watch, then they can only be called useless, right?”
“It may sound harsh, but fighting isn’t the only job of a Hunter. Rear support is also important.”
“Of course, not just Hunters, but Orders and Sabers too. I appreciate your feelings. However, when decisions need to be made, they can get in the way.”
Caesar, Sley, and Delfina admonish me.
“With all due respect, Emperor Hildegard, you need not worry about our safety in such a situation. We Sabers, as well as the Orders who have come to our aid, are prepared to die at any moment. Though I am sure you are already aware, Your Majesty is too kind. Whether the enemy is a Demise Species or not, we are determined to stake our lives for our country.”
Albert also rebuked Emperor Hildegard. Emperor Hildegard had barely participated in this discussion, but Albert attributed it to her concern for the fallen Sabers, Orders, and Hunters. While it’s heartwarming and appreciated on a personal level, it’s nearly disqualifying for someone ruling a country. It’s not that it’s inherently wrong, but as a ruler, one must make ruthless decisions. This is precisely one of those times, and Albert is asking her to send them off with a smile, not just worry about their lives.
“Albert…”
“I have acted beyond my station.”
“No, your admonishment holds great meaning for me as well. However, I am unsure if I can remain completely heartless… No, as the Queen, I must do so.”
Emperor Hildegard closed her eyes, pondering Albert’s words. Then, opening her eyes, she looked intently at Albert and spoke with strength.
“Albert, I hereby order the Saber’s Guild: cooperate with the Alliance and participate in the subjugation of the Slume Lord. Furthermore, should an Avalanche Howl unexpectedly appear, do not leave it solely to Trial Hearts. However, I will not permit the needless sacrifice of lives. There are still many things I wish for you to accomplish.”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
“And Lord Rex, Lord Delfina, I request that the Order’s Guild also cooperate with the Saber’s Guild and the Alliance to deal with this situation. The opponent is the Demise Species Slume Lord, so I cannot guarantee your safety. However, I ask that you lend your strength for the sake of our country.”
“Your Majesty’s command is understood!”
“On the honor of the Order’s Guild, I swear to protect this country!”
Albert, Rex, and Delfina responded forcefully to Emperor Hildegard’s order, and Rosemary and Muse also bowed with the utmost respect. The Saber’s Guild is naturally involved, but the Order’s Guild has also been dispatched to protect Torencia. Therefore, it seems they are willing to die for that cause.
“And to the members of the Alliance, I reassert my request. The mission is the subjugation of the Demise Species Slume Lord. Survival is not mandatory, but if possible, I wish for its demise. As we discussed the other day, the reward will follow the Hunter’s Guild regulations, but I will also make additional arrangements from the Royal Family. Please lend the strength of Amister, the renowned Hunter’s Alliance, to our country.”
“We accept, Your Majesty.”
She then stated the request to the Alliance with strong determination, a stark contrast to yesterday. I imagine it’s partly bluster, as she wouldn’t be able to change that quickly, but it’s amazing that she can put it into practice immediately.
“Lord Yamato.”
“Yes?”
“Your power, as the only A-rank Hunter and O-rank Order in Helios Orb, please lend it to save our country as well.”
“Of course. I will quickly defeat a mere “die-hard” tiger.”
I might be showing off a little too much, but I’m motivated, and morale is high, so it’s better to be ostentatious. I have to avoid looking at the gazes of the ladies behind me, but who knows, it might not be anger I’m seeing, but rather exasperation. Did I do something wrong?
“So this is how it is.”
“It can’t be helped given the atmosphere, but isn’t this the norm?”
“I suppose so. While I personally welcome it, this is quite bothersome, isn’t it?”
“I agree. However, it’s not like it’s happening immediately, so let’s think properly about how to handle it.”
Prim and Mana seem to be having a secret conversation, but I have no idea what they’re talking about. Well, I know that subjugating the Slume Lord won’t be easy. But if I don’t put on a brave face, won’t it spoil the mood? Is that not what it’s about? Then what is it about? Seriously, someone tell me!
