We live at the foothills of Dragon Peak.
Solidifying the foundation is important.
“…So, you felt sympathy for the Mimicho Race?”
“Yes, that’s right!”
Everyone gave a wry smile at my energetic reply.
However, no one raised any negative opinions.
This is a magnificent mansion in the Dragon King’s Capital.
Since we cannot yet enter the enormous mansion currently under construction in the center of the capital, we were taking a brief rest in a mansion prepared by Meduria.
Although the Red Cloth Bandits and Ryzen were repelled, the Dragon King’s Capital suffered considerable damage. Therefore, it was necessary to discuss future defenses with the prominent figures of the capital, and we decided to stay here today.
And in our free time, we reviewed the discussions about the Forbidden Territory.
“Speaking from the position of a Miko, even if our encounter was with an enemy, it is against righteousness to not extend a helping hand to those in trouble.”
“Luiseine is right. When conflict ends, it is our duty to provide charity regardless of whether they were friend or foe. Even if we are repaid with ingratitude.”
Luiseine and Madrine voiced opinions befitting their sacred positions.
Luiseine is always kind to everyone. Even if she were not a Miko, she would surely be a woman who willingly offers selfless service to anyone in need.
And Madrine, in situations like this, is also a person who can stand in the shoes of the weak.
Though it’s hard to imagine from her usual behavior, perhaps she possesses the character to be chosen as the Head Miko?
“If they repay our kindness with betrayal, I will return it tenfold.”
“If they repay our kindness with treachery, this time I will ensure they have no comeback whatsoever.”
You twin sisters over there. You haven’t done anything to earn favor with the Mimicho Race yet, have you? When I interjected, they replied in unison, “The favor Elnea-kun has earned is the favor of our entire family.”
We laughed at Yufilia and Nina, who stated this with full confidence.
“However, what if they truly betray us?”
“Lyra’s concern is natural. Even though the cursed staff is gone, Istericia is connected to Baltnowar. Furthermore, I have some reservations about the Mimicho Race’s way of thinking and customs.”
“Mist, about that…”
Sefina snapped her fingers with a smile.
Sefina, who was eager to repay Ryzen, seemed a bit frustrated.
Or rather!
“Fufufu, that’s right. While I’m not sure if we’ll have them stay in the Forbidden Territory indefinitely, if they are to receive our protection, they must learn our ways.”
“Yes, education.”
Alright, you martial ones over there! Using physical language to communicate is forbidden, you know?
We have protected the Mimicho Race and Istericia.
More accurately, for now, Grandma Yuuri and the others are looking after them.
However, Mistral says that whether we continue to live together indefinitely is another matter.
We are all “those permitted to enter the Forbidden Territory,” but even I can’t imagine peaceful coexistence with those whose ways of thinking clash with ours, or those we simply don’t get along with.
Therefore, during the time we protect them in the Forbidden Territory, we need to understand each other. In that context, the idea of having the Mimicho Race and Istericia learn our ways is a good one.
“If we determine that we cannot live together on the same land, we will ask them to leave, however harsh that may be. Is that acceptable?”
“Yes, it can’t be helped. They might have their own claims, but Mistral inherited the Forbidden Territory. If they want to live here, they must follow the landowner’s way of thinking. I believe that’s the minimum requirement.”
I’m sure other individuals recognized by other administrators will come to the Forbidden Territory in the future.
We want to welcome guests as much as possible. However, we, the existing residents, will hold the initiative in the Forbidden Territory.
After all, our eternal resting place is in the Forbidden Territory, and we must act responsibly towards Carly and the spirits who have moved to the Dragon King’s Forest.
Therefore, from the beginning, we will assert that we will prioritize our way of thinking, rather than treating guests who visit the Forbidden Territory as equals just because we are all permitted to be there. We confirmed this all together.
“Let’s leave the matter of the Forbidden Territory for now. What are your thoughts on this side?”
“Alright. Well then, Meduria and the others might have settled down by now, so let’s go meet them.”
Nodding to Mistral, I led everyone to meet Meduria.
The reason we were taking a break at the mansion was to avoid disturbing the busy Meduria and her staff.
Although the formal governance of the Dragon King’s Capital belongs to me, Meduria is the one managing it.
I don’t possess a single bit of knowledge for governance. Therefore, I entrusted all post-processing matters to her, without interfering.
Thank you, Meduria!
As we were heading towards the mansion’s entrance, a messenger from Meduria just arrived.
“Please tell them that we will meet again in the grand hall.”
“Understood.”
After entrusting the message to the messenger, we also headed towards the grand hall.
The city had already returned to a state of calm.
Despite the bandit raid, areas that suffered no damage were perfectly fine.
In fact, this is a country ruled by demons.
Furthermore, not only demons but also slaves are residents of the demon country from birth.
For such people, these kinds of disturbances, if not everyday occurrences, are not uncommon. Therefore, if they were to panic over every commotion, their daily lives would be impossible, fostering a resilience within them.
The people walking around the city were living their normal lives, as if the attack were something of the past.
However, even the residents of this mentally strong demon country are not always able to remain calm.
The cause was a large plaza located near the center of the Dragon King’s Capital.
More precisely, the super colossal dragon dominating that plaza was the factor!
As we approached the plaza, not only demons but also slaves were crowded together, forming a throng.
And at the focus of their gathered gaze was a magnificent dragon with beautiful long fur.
“Thinking of it as a terrifying dragon from afar and then biting it.”
“Eek!”
The divine dragon glaring at me from a distance is Lord Asher, the savior who rescued the capital from crisis!
“Are you intentionally thinking that?”
“Goodness, absolutely not!”
Through the onlookers gathered around the plaza, Asher and I exchanged words. Then, we immediately drew the attention of everyone around us.
The cluster of onlookers naturally parted, creating a path before us.
Those who know, know.
In fact, our faces seem to be quite well-known now.
“Is that the Dragon King?”
“Are the women around him his consorts?”
Meduria seems to have been actively promoting us. Apparently, she has been using all sorts of methods to convey our appearances and races to the residents, educating them that their peace in the Dragon King’s Capital is thanks to us.
This naturally includes dragon-bloods such as Nimia, Lily, and Revalia. Therefore, they should understand that Asher, who resembles Nimia, is not a terrifying being. Well, Asher was the one who drove away Ryzen when he invaded, so they should think of him as not an enemy, right?
Nevertheless, for demons, dragon-bloods flying from Dragon Peak are fearsome beings. The reason for the bystanders gathering is that such a dragon is occupying the plaza…
“Lord Asher, please refrain from any excessive behavior?”
“That’s a warning that should be directed at the demons.”
Several parts of the plaza were turned white and ash.
“Everyone gathered here, please refrain from approaching that dragon carelessly. Especially, men!”
When I shouted, a reply came from somewhere, as if they had already deeply understood my warning. The onlookers laughed. It seemed that some curious individuals had already become victims. We also laughed.
“As expected of Lord Elnea. Delivering smiles to the residents.”
At that moment, Meduria and the members of the Ten Clans arrived.
“Everyone, thank you for your hard work.”
“It’s nothing, this much is expected.”
Meduria and her group, after giving instructions for the damaged buildings, residents, and the ash-covered areas where Asher had unleashed his power, appeared somewhat tired. Their days are already busy, and now they have an increase in urgent tasks. We offered words of encouragement to those who had been working tirelessly, and proceeded towards the plaza via the path cleared by the onlookers.
“Ah, from here on, men are prohibited from entering!”
The moment I tried to step into the plaza, Asher glared at me! Asher dislikes males, you see. The members of the Ten Clans frowned at my warning.
“In that case, we cannot proceed any further.”
“Besides, there’s only Lord Meduria among the women…?”
“That’s right!”
Some demons are difficult to distinguish their gender by appearance. Among the Ten Clans are also those who do not take human form.
“Then… let’s have Meduria represent us.”
“Yes, that’s fine.”
Meduria nodded. The members of the Ten Clans also followed suit, as Meduria had been entrusted with the governance of the Dragon King’s Capital by me.
Accompanied by Meduria, we approached Asher’s feet. Asher allowed Meduria, a demon, to approach.
“I recognize you from your wedding ceremony.”
“It is an honor that you remember me. This time, you have rescued us from a crisis…”
Meduria thanked Asher again with a respectful demeanor. Asher also accepted Meduria’s greeting magnanimously.
“So, what is it you want?”
Asher was in the midst of a heartwarming family moment with his beloved daughter, Nimia. Nimia was sleeping soundly, enveloped in Asher’s beautiful fur.
“Yes, it’s about future consultations!”
“I refuse.”
“So quick!”
We haven’t even discussed anything yet. I sighed at Asher’s refusal. Meduria, seeing our exchange, smiled amusingly.
“Um, Lord Asher, we would like you to continue to protect this place!”
“I said I refuse?”
“Hahaha, it must be my imagination.”
As I tried to brush it off with a smile, Asher’s giant foreleg slammed down, attempting to crush me. Everyone screamed and dodged.
“Once this commotion is over, I will invite you to the Forbidden Territory.”
“And that reward is for driving away the demons, isn’t it?”
Another blow struck as I was hit by a follow-up attack.
“See, you can relax with Nimia in the Forbidden Territory. But if this commotion doesn’t end, Nimia will be busy.”
“Wouldn’t it suffice if you released Nimia?”
Dodging a long tail swung about.
“Hahaha, if I release Nimia, wouldn’t she just go to the Forbidden Territory where Priscilla-chan is?”
“Then, give us permission to enter the Forbidden Territory quickly.”
“Hmm, what shall I do?”
With a “gabu,” I was bitten by sharp fangs at the collar of my neck and easily lifted into the air.
“Is this really the time to be so nonchalant?”
“Hah, I’ve been caught!”
Dangling in the air in front of Asher’s colossal mouth, I was in a very dangerous situation!
“Mother, please, Nyan. Cooperate with Elnea Older Brother, Nyan?”
Just then, a savior appeared! Nimia, awakened by the commotion, looked at Asher with her round, lovely eyes, pleading.
“Grandpa is in the Forbidden Territory. If Lord Asher protects this place, we can face Baltnowar’s scheme with peace of mind.”
“Lord Asher, please.”
“I have no choice…”
Mistral, my family, and Meduria bowed their heads, and Asher reluctantly agreed.
“However, no males are allowed to approach. Understood?”
“Understood.”
Meduria bowed deeply to Asher’s request.
“Alright, with this, without further worries, we can turn our attention to Baltnowar!”
I was unceremoniously thrown by Asher and soared through the skies of the Dragon King’s Capital.
