It turns out there was a huge misunderstanding.
I thought Mitsuki had explained my plan to everyone, but there was an impossible communication error.
Apparently, Mitsuki misunderstood my plan to be: “Gather equipment in the Sealing Chamber, lure the Fragment of the Evil God there to stall it, then form a formation at the entrance and defeat the Evil God with the combined strength of Adventurers and Knights.”
Well, I only talked about things like “Please gather the equipment in the Sealing Chamber” and “We need to buy some time.” Before I knew it, Mitsuki said, “I understand the plan,” and ran off. I didn’t confirm if she had truly grasped it.
While I felt a slight unease at her quick understanding, I thought, “Amazing! Is this telepathy!” and didn’t pay it much mind.
But I never imagined it would be conveyed so incorrectly.
I won’t say there was no room for misunderstanding, but to come up with such a plan from what I said… truly a Battle junkie.
She’s a true warrior at heart.
Normally, people would only think of using Slime to multiply and feed it to the Evil God when gathering equipment.
The Hisame family’s people truly have a unique way of thinking, unlike ordinary people.
This means that everyone else who heard Mitsuki’s explanation must have also misunderstood my plan.
In other words, the people gathered here intended to fight the Fragment of the Evil God themselves.
That explains why they seriously asked about how to deal with the Evil God when it appeared, and why they seemed so nervous.
Let me imagine for a moment.
What if, instead of the Evil God appearing from underground, a Yellow Slime showed up instead…
Yeah, honestly, that would be a bit of a surprise.
Furthermore, now that the misunderstanding has been cleared up, I understood even better as to why Ringo was angry.
From Ringo’s perspective, I had done something with Slime in secret, and then, without consulting her, put myself in danger again to deal with that Slime.
For Ringo, who is inexplicably more sensitive to my danger than I am, it was an unacceptable situation.
I thought that since everyone was asking about how to deal with the Evil God but not the Slime, it was implicitly left to me to handle. But it turns out that was quite a misunderstanding.
Perhaps due to that misunderstanding, we who emerged onto the surface were bombarded with questions by those who remained.
Helplessly, I explained the sequence of events, and incidentally lectured them on the dangers and methods of defeating Slime…
“I’m just tired for no reason…”
First, the Knights. Some still believe I am a Cultist, and some mistakenly think the Yellow Slime is some kind of familiar I control. The conversation didn’t go over well.
Then, on the other hand, Adventurers. Honestly, many Adventurers are muscle-brained.
Many of them couldn’t keep up with overly complex explanations.
I carefully explained the methods of Slime extermination, recalling the “Slime Annihilation Method for Sahzan to Understand,” but it didn’t seem to sink in much.
I thought they were worse than Sahzan, but Sahzan herself was just standing there blankly, not seeming to listen, so perhaps they were still better off.
Well, thanks to my efforts, I believe the method of Slime eradication has been conveyed to many people. From now on, this world will likely not be destroyed by that Yellow Slime.
Taking that as my only consolation, I concluded my lengthy explanation.
Despite various miscalculations, I believe we have overcome the “Labyrinth of Sacrifice” quest.
“Now, all that’s left is…”
We just need to accomplish our initial objective.
“Yo, good work.”
As we approached Alex’s party, Raiden was the first to greet us.
Then,
“I don’t know what happened, but you’re still amazing! Well, you can’t compare to my magnificent performance as the Hero, but for a commoner, you did quite well. Hahahahaha!”
Alex was inexplicably cheerful for doing nothing, and,
“It’s amazing to defeat the Evil God! Now I can spend sweet times with Abel and the others without any worries. …Hehe, actually, I just made plans to meet them privately.”
Bacala, whose words were difficult to comprehend, was also in a good mood, offering words of encouragement.
However, Sahzan, the most important person, was looking away.
Well, her attitude is always bad, but this time, it’s problematic if I don’t speak with her.
As I reluctantly approached her and tried to speak,
“Hey, Saha–”
“Hmph. It seems you defeated the Evil God.”
To my surprise, she spoke to me first, in a blunt tone.
Confused, I replied,
“No, I wasn’t the one who landed the finishing blow, and it was probably a very small fragment…”
“Never mind the details. In any case, you defeated it, right?”
Given how she said it, it felt odd to deny it.
“…Yeah.”
I simply nodded. Then Sahzan finally turned her masked face towards me and said,
“—Good. I shall acknowledge you as my rival.”
For a moment, it felt like time had stopped.
“…What?”
But of course, it was my delusion. Time flowed normally, and before me stood Sahzan with an attitude that projected a smug grin from behind her mask.
“Don’t make me say it again. I said I acknowledge you as my rival. Close your idiotic mouth and show your gratitude by prostrating yourself before this immense honor.”
—This is it.
This unnecessarily arrogant, haughty, and unlikeable man. This is Sahzan.
“Well, thank you. But sorry, I have something I want to ask you more than that.”
Suppressing the dizziness that welled up, I managed to utter the words.
“Hmph, what is it?”
“I’m looking for a certain magic. An offensive spell called ‘Stardust Flare.’ I need your cooperation to learn it.”
Stardust Flare is one of the most powerful spells that can only be learned through Sahzan’s event. Of course, as someone who isn’t a magic user, I won’t be able to wield its full power, but the spell’s area of effect and magical effects are not related to Magic Power. The only thing determined by Magic Power is its destructive force; other elements remain unchanged regardless of who uses it, as I have confirmed.
…However, I don’t expect Sahzan to accept this offer. Most character events only occur if your friendship level is above a certain point, and the event related to learning Stardust Flare was one of them. I had to include Sahzan in my party and travel with her to learn it, so there’s no doubt about it.
In this world, it seems friendship levels fluctuate based on the individual’s feelings, somewhat ignoring the game’s rules. But I don’t think I’m liked by Sahzan enough for a character event to trigger.
However, even if she refuses, if I talk to her beforehand like this, it could…
“Understood.”
“Wh-What!? Really!?”
Receiving such an unexpected answer, I was flustered. Sahzan looked at me with a dubious expression from behind her mask.
“You accepted, yet you protest? You’re a strange one. I’m not one to owe favors. I’ll grant your wish out of sheer inconvenience.”
“Urgh… Thank you.”
Her way of speaking irritated me, but I managed to suppress it. I offered a token of my thanks. Then, Sahzan got even more carried away.
“Hmph. In another time, I, the greatest Magician in the world, would be known throughout the realm. You are truly fortunate to be able to study under me. Well, if you wish to become my disciple!?”
Sahzan was speaking proudly, but suddenly stopped.
“Yeah, yeah, how amazing. Close that mouth of yours and come over here with me!”
From behind Sahzan, Bacala spoke. She grabbed Sahzan by the scruff of her neck and lifted her up.
“Wh-What are you doing! M-my noble cloak with your filthy hands…”
“Huh? What did you say about my hands?”
“Eek! N-Nothing! It’s nothing!”
While they were having this exchange, Bacala carried Sahzan far away. It looked like a mother cat carrying her kitten.
I stared at the scene in a daze, when—
“Sorry, she’s a bit unrestrained. If you’re offended, I’ll apologize on her behalf.”
This time, Raiden stepped forward and bowed, bringing me back to my senses.
“No, it’s okay. I don’t mind.”
It was actually quite restrained for Sahzan. I even worried if she was feeling unwell.
“I see. I’m grateful you say so.”
Raiden smiled with a hint of bitterness. I thought he must be struggling, but—
(Well, for a masochist, it’s a reward.)
It wasn’t something I needed to worry about. In fact, Raiden apologizing for Sahzan made him seem like a good teammate. I should be glad he’s fitting in with the party.
“Well, putting Sahzan aside, this is the second time you’ve saved me.”
“Huh? Oh, well, I suppose so.”
Come to think of it, I also helped Raiden during the Butcher incident. Well, Raiden was in danger in the first place because we brought out the Butcher, and I just helped Raiden who was trying to stop it.
As I recalled those memories and felt a sense of nostalgia—
“…Hey. I know I’m saved by you, but don’t push yourself too hard, okay?”
“Huh?”
The unexpected words froze my body. Raiden started talking, muttering that this wasn’t like him.
“Seeing you desperately trying to save that trio and that child named Rifa makes me a little anxious. After all, this whole affair wasn’t originally related to you at all.”
“Ah, that, well…”
In reality, I had the foreknowledge that if this quest failed, it would be Game Over. Considering that, I couldn’t say it was completely unrelated, but indeed, from an outsider’s perspective, my involvement in this quest might seem like meddling.
Seeing my complex expression, Raiden hastily waved his hand.
“Ah, no, no, that itself isn’t a problem. The issue is that you’re trying too hard. Even you can’t save everyone you get involved with, right? So I’m worried you might break if ‘that kind of thing’ happens.”
The moment he said that, Mitsuki’s words flashed in my mind.
“You get a little too involved with the people you interact with.”
Could that have been what she meant? Even with my game knowledge, I can’t solve the plight of every person I meet and guarantee their safety. Especially in this world where characters have free will and some quests proceed independently.
For example, Rifa and I have no connection in this world. But if Rifa had been sacrificed according to the game, what would have happened to me? Mitsuki was worried about that.
“It’s fine to want to help. But well, don’t push yourself too hard. If you can’t learn to compartmentalize, you might be the next one to die.”
I could feel my face twitching. Raiden looked at my face with an apologetic expression but spoke clearly.
“At the very least, things you learn about too late, or events happening far away, are beyond your control. It’s an unpleasant thought, but no one can live without losing anything. There may be situations where you can’t overcome them without sacrifice. For those times, it’s best to set your own boundaries and priorities.”
(Priorities, huh…)
I thanked Raiden, the masochist whose advice was surprisingly useful, and returned to my companions.
As soon as Rifa noticed me, Ringo, who had been talking to her, ran over to me. Kuma patted my shoulder for no reason, Maki started yelling, and Mitsuki twitched her cat ears. Seeing them,
(Right now, these guys, my companions, are the most important.)
I realized this obvious fact, perhaps for the first time. Ringo worries about me more than I do myself, and Mitsuki, who didn’t seem to show it, was indirectly showing concern for me with her harsh words, as I had just realized. Kuma, who always cheers us up, and Maki, with whom I can share stories of our original world, are all here with me. I felt that I was truly blessed with companions.
And as I thought that, I felt an urge to give form to that feeling. It’s a bit embarrassing, but there’s no harm in having such an opportunity. I scratched my cheek and turned to Ringo first.
“Ringo. Um, I’m sorry about earlier. I won’t do anything that dangerous again… well, I’ll try to refrain as much as possible.”
With somewhat hesitant words, I bowed. Ringo patted my shoulder, like Kuma would. “Okay.” It seemed to mean forgiveness.
“…Thank you.”
I smiled at Ringo, and she averted her gaze, looking a little embarrassed. Thinking I’d seen something rare, I then met Kuma’s gaze, who was perched on her shoulder. When Kuma met my eyes, he crossed his arms as if to protect himself, and turned his back…
“No, that’s not it.”
That was a joke from when he peeked at me changing at the Hisame Dojo, wasn’t it? He’s bringing up such nostalgic things. Talking with Kuma often leads to me making such retorts, and despite how much he’s helped me, I don’t think I’ve ever properly thanked him. Pulling myself together, I bowed again.
“Kuma, um… thank you for everything. Not just today, but you’re always helping me out. Please continue to look out for me.”
When I said that and looked up—
—*Nitaa*.
Kuma responded to my words with his most eloquent smile. He’s still the same, and that’s why he’s reliable.
“…Maki.”
“Soma.”
Next was Maki. With an expectant look, Maki gazed at me, and I put on my most serious face and said,
“The Knights are waiting behind you. Shouldn’t we head back to the castle soon?”
“…Eh?”
At those words, the Knights behind Maki moved.
“Your Highness, your business is concluded. Let us return.”
“The King and Queen are also worried. Come, come!”
The Knights, escorting Maki, led her away.
“Eh? Wait, what—!? Am I the only one being treated like this?! Soma—!”
Maki flailed her arms, calling for my help. I watched her go with a smile. After confirming Maki had been pushed into the Knights’ carriage and disappeared from view,
“Ah, dammit…”
I realized I hadn’t decided on a way to contact Maki. It would have been good if I had prepared something like the “Communication Ring” I gave to Train, but without it, my only way to contact her would be to visit the castle again.
Oh well. My suspicion of being a Cultist should have been resolved by now, so if I go to the Royal Castle and ask for them to relay a message, it should probably work out. More importantly, for now…
“Mitsuki.”
“Yes.”
I finally faced Mitsuki. Seeing her usual blank expression, with only her cat ears twitching nervously, I thought it was very like her. I had something I wanted to say to Mitsuki.
“Raiden also told me not to get too involved with others. And I think I understand what you were worried about.”
“…Is that so.”
At my words, Mitsuki’s cat ears drooped. She averted her gaze slightly and began to speak as if murmuring,
“I’m not made of wood or stone. If my companions get hurt, I feel pain, and if acquaintances die, I grieve. The reason I traveled alone to many places is not unrelated to that.”
“I see…”
I could understand her feelings. Just as I had left Train behind with Ramur, Mitsuki probably knew the dangers of traveling with her and therefore never made any companions.
“You are the first person I found who stands beside me. You are my precious, truly precious companion.”
Her face remained expressionless, but her words and the deep affection I felt from her cat ears made my chest warm.
“Speaking of which, at first, we decided to travel together with you as a temporary member, right? There were times I felt confused, but now, I can’t imagine traveling without you.”
Looking directly at Mitsuki, I tried to convey my feelings as best as I could.
“I also think of you as a precious companion, Mitsuki. If possible, I want to continue to…”
“If that’s the case!!”
For some reason, Mitsuki exclaimed loudly, closing the distance between us with incredible speed and grabbing my shoulders.
“Wh-What, Mitsuki!?”
Her grip was too strong, and it actually hurt. Moreover, she seemed a little too excited, which was frightening. However, Mitsuki didn’t seem to notice my discomfort. Her usual composure gone, her eyes, like a hunter spotting prey, became intensely bright as she launched into her request.
“Th-Then, this is a perfect opportunity! To celebrate my official promotion as a member, won’t you come with me to the Crystal Cave next time!?”
As Mitsuki loomed over me, her cat ears flapping open and shut at an abnormal speed above her head, I thought,
“No, um… Can I think about that?”
Cats are truly hunters, I thought, a pointless observation.
