Chapter 82: High Earl Mizuho

We, who escaped the coup d'etat which took place in Bardiche, did nothing except having the carriage travel towards the north.

We encountered a pursuit party of Duke Nürnberg's troops once when we were travelling the northern main road and a second time after we turned into the branch road through Earl Mizuho Country, but all of them were flashily torn to pieces by Katharina's spell [Wind Cutter].

Don't they have sufficient coordination with their allies thanks to the communication blockade?

The rebel army didn't let overly able magicians participate in the pursuit. They chased us while releasing Fire Balls and such, however having all of it blocked by Katharina's [Magic Barrier], they got counter-attacked and killed by her.

"High-ranking magicians won't appear in a pursuit." (Katharina)

"I guess they are busy with seizing the centre." (Wendelin)

Katharina talks to me while retrieving the magic bags and equipment of the magicians she defeated.

She seems to act completely like a bandit, but this is also how battlefields works, Burkhart-san said.

"No matter how celebrated and powerful the opponent, they become simple headless corpses once they die. Their bodies rot and turn into fodder for beasts. The weak are killed and have everything stolen from them.』 (Burkhart)

"Burkhart-san, do you have battlefield-experience?" (Wendelin)

"It's because me and Burkhart-dono were active as adventurers for many years. At places where the eyes of the authorities don't reach, such things happen as well if sly old adventurers do their work, and you have no other choice but to understand that, Earl Baumeister." (Armstrong)

It's no wonder that Doushi and Burkhart-san kill people without any hesitation. It's only natural since they have experienced it already. Even we turned into quite skilful murderers over this whole day.

* * *

"Therese-dono, what kind of country is the Earl Mizuho Country?" (Wendelin)

"For us it's a country with quite a different cultural shape." (Therese)

Except for the times when we have the horses rest, we spent all our time moving, but once we travel for the whole day we will arrive in Earl Mizuho Country, and will apparently be able to take a breather.

I try asking Therese, who sits opposite of me inside the carriage, about Earl Mizuho Country.

"In the old times, still before the founding of Holy Empire Urquhart, it existed as an old country of an ethnic group." (Therese)

There are many people with black hair and black eyes. It seems to be an independent country possessing an unique culture.

"Since they are even older than the Lan tribe which is the major ethnic group of Philip Dukedom, their existence is known to the empire." (Therese)

The Great Basin Akitsu*, which is adjacent to Philip Dukedom, is their living sphere. Their population is about 1.2 million people.

(T/N: Leaving it as Japanese pronunciation like anything else related to Mizuho Country)

Given that it's a basin the summers are hot and the winters are cold, but due to the abundance of water and the intensity in the changes between hot and cold temperatures, delicious rice is cultivated in paddy fields as staple food. It seems to be famous even as special product.

We can harvest large quantities of rice in the southern Baumeister Earldom and below as well, but if we talk about taste, it appears that the Earl Mizuho Country's domestically grown rice has an overwhelmingly superior evaluation.

Which reminds me, there were many of Japan's famous rice-producing areas in Hokuriku and the Tohoku region with their intense variations of cold and hot temperatures.

(Horikuru: part of Honshu, lies west of Tokyo)

(Tohoku: northernmost six prefectures of Honshu)

In addition it seems they are the best by far in crafted goods, made with skilful handwork, and magic tool production technologies. Leading quite the wealthy life among the subjects of Holy Empire Urquhart, they entertain visitors, who come to their territory, courteously.

There are also many places which earn their income by expanding to other territories with large companies and carpenter associations. They became what is called on earth overseas merchants.

'They resemble Japanese people...' (Wendelin)

"Clothes, books, food, buildings, all of it is unique. They have been built in Bardiche as well." (Therese)

Apparently it's the architectural structures with tiled roofs and temple-styled buildings, I saw at the time when we arrived in Bardiche, which are referred to as Mizuho Style.

From my point of view, I couldn't see it as anything but common Japanese style though.

"Usually most of them are docile, but once it comes to battle, they turn absolutely atrocious." (Therese)

The knights, which are called samurai, defend their own territory with a struggle to the death by wielding their single-edged swords which are called katana. Or rather, no matter what I hear, it's the ancient Japan itself.

"They are a group who stayed on the side of the Lan tribe. The empire dispatched soldiers to suppress them many times over." (Therese)

All the subjugations ended in failure. They also suffered enormous losses, but the empire's side suffered horrible losses each of those times, too.

"The empire in those days expanded its territory in all four cardinal directions. However, since the losses of the Mizuho expeditionary forces were each time disastrous, its advances in the other directions stopped every time as well." (Therese)

And yet they regularly dispatched troops until the Philip household gained total control of the Lan tribe's soil, but before long, at the time where the number of allied soldiers, who disembarked on the journey to the other world due to the people of Mizuho, reached into the dozens of 10.000 soldiers, the emperor at that time gave in and recognised their autonomy in the end.

"It's because they don't demand any other territory besides the Great Basin Akitsu. Being appointed to a special peerage called High Earl, their territory was named as Earl Country and they were treated differently from other earldoms. With the conditions that they yield diplomatic authority to Holy Empire Urquhart and a yearly paid tribute, Mizuho Country's continuance was approved." (Therese)

Even that diplomatic authority is in short something like telling them to not negotiate with Helmut Kingdom on their own accord.

"The empire feared an alliance being formed between the people of Mizuho and Helmut Kingdom." (Therese)

Earl Mizuho Country was established like this, but once they attained peace, the people of Mizuho became docile.

They accept tourists as well. Their popularity for high-class items such as high-quality fabric, alcohol, commodity, handicraft and magic tools, is high.

"It's also the people of Mizuho who fished in my Philip Dukedom first." (Therese)

Even though they are living in a basin with no sea, they love sea fish for some reason. Half of those fishing in the Philip Dukedom seem to be people of Mizuho.

"There are many people working away from home. They are well-informed about the knowledge about edible fish, the methods of processing and the means of preservation and transportation. The haul limits*, the establishment of fish reefs, aquacultures and such, all that knowledge is from them. Also, they dry strange seaweed and create tough rods similar to wood out of a fish called skipjack tuna or such. They are an eccentric lot who are usually gentle." (Therese)

(T/N: Quite sarcastic is that the modern Japan is the worst fishing country abiding to no international haul limit rules, but authors can dream, can't they?)

'It cameee~~~! A typically Japanese culture appeared~~~!' (Wendelin)

To me, whose mind went haywire due to the murdering in the imperial capital, it's a reward after a long time.

I encountered a state possessing a Japanese-styled culture in this western-styled fantasy world. Sightseeing, food and culture, I have to genuinely enjoy these during our stay there.

"It's because Philip Dukedom and Mizuho Earldom are adjoining with each other. I won't mind even if we stay for a night. No, should we stay for several days?" (Therese)

"To request reinforcements?" (Wendelin)

"That's how it is." (Therese)

Because the survival and actions of the other prince-elector lords and nobles is unknown, Therese has to first start with the task of gathering the northern neighbouring feudal lords.

"Therese-sama, won't that Earl Mizuho Country assist in Duke Nürnberg's coup d'etat? What I heard from your story, their treatment is mostly that of an independent state..." (Elise)

I understand Elise's worry.

From Earl Mizuho Country's point of view, it will be fine if their current treatment is guaranteed, even with Duke Nürnberg as emperor.

"On the contrary, it's not like that." (Therese)

Duke Nürnberg tried to even kill Therese.

In order to centralize the authority of the emperor, he plans to remove the prince-elector lords.

"That man's national policy is that of a powerful empire which was unified into one entity. Something like Earl Mizuho Country, which hasn't yielded to the empire even after thousands of years, is likely a hindrance. As a matter of fact, there were troubles with the treatment of the people of Mizuho who are staying in Nürnberg Dukedom." (Therese)

Based on the drastic deficit in trade balance, Mizuho's funds of companies and workshops, which have expanded into Nürnberg Dukedom, have been burdened with large amounts of monetary tariffs due to the reason of them oppressing the management of the domestic merchants. The confrontation between both parties seems to intensify.

"If it's him, he would likely aim for a complete conquest of Earl Mizuho Country. Moreover, he will be able to obtain their technology and such." (Therese)

"Then his way of thinking seems to be naive..."

He should realize that if the empire attacks with 1 million troops, a complete conquest of Earl Mizuho Country probably isn't impossible.

However, afterwards a large amount of male providers, who possess technology and productivity, will have been killed in action. The empire would need to take care of the ruined, former Earl Mizuho Country's territory. Given that their resistance will be extreme, there's no meaning in an unreasonable conquest either.

That's probably the reason why the empire is approving of Earl Mizuho Country's continuance.

"From Duke Nürnberg's point of view, he is believing that it will be fine if there's a restoration of the destruction afterwards. If he integrates Earl Mizuho Country into the empire and makes the people of Mizuho submit by using a large budget and taking a few decades, it will turn into a plus for the new empire when regarded at long term." (Therese)

"A rigid ultranationalist."

"He is troublesome because he has solid supporters outside and inside his territory which can be considered as his private domain or own country." (Therese)

You can even say that the coup d'etat was performed so skilfully because there were a number of supporters in the imperial army as well. In addition, magic tools and spells for communication and movement have been sealed away.

The empire's government and the nobles shouldn't have escaped the chaos until now. The possibility is also high that they have surrendered to the coup d'etat forces without any time to consider it.

"This is bothersome..."

"I don't think that he has brooded over it to such an extent before though. He might have felt a sense of impending danger after receiving a report about that after all." (Therese)

"That?" (Wendelin)

"Here. It's what thee assisted to get operational, Wendelin" (Therese)

It's the huge magic airship which is a legacy of the historic ruins and was successfully restarted by using the magic gem of the ancient undead dragon I subjugated by chance. Recently it was christened as [Lingaia] and the huge ship with its over-all-length of 400 meters was safely placed in commission. Currently it should be in the middle of performing training in order to investigate outside the continent.

"It's because thee were able to establish a lead even in the number of common 100-meter-class large magic airships." (Therese)

The ratio of the air forces' war potential has expanded up to 2.2 to 1. This made Duke Nürnberg apparently feel quite a sense of danger.

"In other words, it's my fault?" (Wendelin)

"At very least Duke Nürnberg believes that to be so." (Therese)

I see, that's why he stared at me with such a sharp gaze. Since his usual look is sharp too, he might have simply looked at me though.

"In short you are telling me to kill Duke Nürnberg for the sake of having a peaceful future?" (Wendelin)

"I think that I want thee to participate in the war as mercenary if possible. There's no other way but to kill Duke Nürnberg. He is dangerous." (Therese)

Based on his fluctuating radical beliefs, he even turned towards the use of force. Large damage will be done to the empire due to his actions. Naturally dissatisfaction will gush out from the surroundings, if they can't get compensation by crushing the Duke Nürnberg household.

Something like an easy-going nation, that lets the ringleader of a rebellion live, doesn't exist in any world.

"Before that there's also the possibility that my group will be killed once and for all by Duke Nürnberg who succeeded in the coup d'etat." (Therese)

"That's ill omened..."

"There are also uncertain parts in a war." (Therese)

There was the worrying aspect of the southern, western and eastern nobles' course of action, but as the communication blockade was tormenting us even here, we couldn't obtain any information at all.

"You can't count on them. I guess the lot, which went to Bardiche for the enthronement of the new emperor, has been captured or killed by the coup d'etat forces." (Therese)

Therese wants to gather the northern lords before Duke Nürnberg dispatches a punitive force towards the north. It's crucial that she carries that out in a hurry first, I guess.

Fortunately there were many among the majority of the northern lords who departed from the imperial capital on the same day or the next day after the new emperor got crowned. It seems that countryside nobles don't have spare time to the degree I have been expecting.

"However, it's something annoying, that communication blockade." (Wendelin)

The hand-held magic communication device, we are possessing, stays silent even now although we are considerably far away from the imperial capital. The part of restricting the magic types which are possible to be jammed widened the effective range quite a bit.

At this rate, it should have become impossible to operate magic airships and communication devices in the northern parts of Helmut Kingdom as well.

"I worry about Baumeister Earldom." (Ina)

It's as Ina said.

If it's a situation where magic airships can't be moved, it will cause large difficulties to the development.

"There's no other choice but to believe that Roderich will handle it somehow." (Wendelin)

I didn't think that being unable to communicate will be this irritating. I regarded it as reckless coup d'etat, but Duke Nürnberg might actually have a chance of success.

"Really, he doesn't do anything decent, that bastard with his evil eyes." (Wendelin)

Moreover, that guy's an ikemen.

I hear that his popularity among women is high thanks to that, but I end up believing that he's a fellow that's not worth to be trusted as human with only that much. By no means does that imply that I feel frustrated because of losing to him with my face.

"I feel calm and enjoy being at your side, dear." (Elise)

"It's as Elise says. I think I would choke if Duke Nürnberg was my husband." (Ina)

"If Ina-chan can't handle it, someone like me will die by suffocation." (Luise)

Elise, Ina and Luise start mentioning that they aren't very good with Duke Nürnberg with his scary atmosphere although he is an ikemen.

It seems I would be warned about the amount of my meals by him. I would hate to be looked down on by his stabbing eyes." (Wilma)

"That's right, isn't it? I can see a type of feeling like follow me without complaining since I'm right." (Katharina)

Is it fine to say that he has an inborn despotic character?

Unexpectedly Wilma's and Katharina's opinions might peck at Duke Nürnberg's true identity.

"I'm absolutely fine with Vel-sama's type of husband." (Wilma)

"Me too." (Katharina)

"Everyone, thank you!" (Wendelin)

Overcome by emotions, I hug the five of them one after the other.

Even I have parts which can win against Duke Nürnberg.

"I don't understand. From Duke Nürnberg's point of view, Vel is probably a target of jealousy..." (Erwin)

"I pass on such complicated, internal story." (Wendelin)

I drove Eru, who stated his opinion in a whisper, towards Doushi with silence.

"Erwin-lad, a man is all about muscles and ability!" (Armstrong)

Doushi forcibly took a pose emphasizing his muscles inside the confined carriage.

It's a pushy logic, but for some reason I feel its persuasiveness if Doushi is the one saying it.

"No, it's the charm of an adult which only grown men can possess." (Burkhart)

Next Burkhart-san, who recovered his mana already, participated in the talk, too.

"Honestly, either is fine. Don't you think so, Therese-sama?" (Burkhart)

"Thou husband seems to also have many, various problems, but let's take a rest in Earl Mizuho Country for now." (Therese)

While having such a chat inside, the carriage arrived at the border territory of Earl Mizuho Country.

The Earl Mizuho Country consists of the Great Basin Akitsu and a mountain range enclosing it. Since the mountain range doesn't have that much of elevation, a highway to make the passage of carriages possible has been laid out, but an inspection place had been created at the entrance of the mountain road.

Guards are standing at the entrance of a building which is similar to a simple fortress. They are resembling Japanese people with their black hair and black eyes, but the size of their bodies has no great difference to the average height of the people of this world.

Once I looked properly, their garments had an appearance similar to the samurai of Edo period and three katanas were affixed to their waists. On the left they have two long swords which can be regarded as Japanese swords, and on the right there's one sword similar to a short wakizashi.

(Note: The wakizashi has a blade between 30 and 60 cm (12 and 24 inches), with wakizashi close to the length of a katana being called o-wakizashi and wakizashi closer to tantō length being called ko-wakizashi. The wakizashi being worn together with the katana was the official sign that the wearer was a samurai or swordsman of feudal Japan.)

"Three katanas, huh...? The Battou Unit has been added to the defence." (Therese)

(T/N: Battou = drawing a sword (and striking in the same motion), imagine Kenshin the Battousai, probably an unit specializing on sword drawing techniques)

"Battou Unit?" (Wendelin)

"In the empire they are called a unit mass producing war dead with ridicule put into the name." (Therese)

Common soldiers don't wear anything but two short and long katanas, but since the elite Battou Unit has been granted [Magic Katana]'s which are magic tools, they wear three katanas.

"A [Magic Katana] is a sophisticated magic tool." (Therese)

It appears that they cut and kill their enemies by cladding the katana with their preferred attribute of mana through an all-purpose magic tool.

"I happened to see it at a joint military exercise of our feudal armies. A samurai, who clad his magic katana with fire-attributed mana, cut through a steel armour target with a diagonal slash from his shoulder." (Therese)

"What's that? How scary."

"I heard a story that a military force consisting of 10.000 soldiers melted and vanished after being attacked by a Battou Unit of a thousand in the past." (Therese)

It seems that was the end of the empire's invasion armies achieved at the past Earl Mizuho Country subjugations.

Of 20.000 soldiers, 15.000 were casualties and the rest escaped. Although it seems that the [Battou Unit] lost half of its numbers as well, the loss ratio is weird no matter how you count it.

I wondered whether it was exaggerated, but there appears to be no mistake as it has been recorded in the military annals of the imperial army which suffered the loss.

"They have no interest in territory outside the Great Basin Akitsu, but it's not like they are lenient towards invaders."

"Even though it will be fine if you mass produce those magic katanas."

"That's impossible." (Therese)

Since even the empire isn't stupid, there exists an unit equipped with magic swords which had the same trick added to their swords. However, it seems that they can't take a single blow from a magic katana. I hear that there's apparently a difference completely separating them in performance of the equipment.

"You can avoid a magic katana's blow or, in case of Wendelin, he will deploy a firm [Magic Barrier], I guess? There are no options besides those." (Therese)

"How about plundered items?" (Luise)

"They become unusable before one month passes." (Therese)

Therese answered Luise's question while showing a bitter smile.

"On top of its structure being complicated, it looks like it's necessary to regularly give it a special maintenance." (Therese)

By switching a lever to fire, earth, water and wind, it's possible to freely clad it in an attribute's mana. In addition there's also a lever to adjust to the magic capacity included.

If mana is loaded into the embedded magic crystal, you can use it for a while, but it ends up returning to a regular katana losing its usefulness all of a sudden before even one month passes.

"It appears to have even a maintenance of the katana's blade itself. The empire's magic tool craftsmen have attempted to analyse and reproduce it as well, however they haven't reached any significant results either." (Therese)

The technology around the katanas has been strictly concealed. It also serves as proof that the magic tool production technology of the people of Mizuho is outstanding.

"It seems that Duke Nürnberg isn't pleased with that aspect either though." (Therese)

Since they are treacherous friends nesting within the empire, he feels obliged to get rid of Earl Mizuho Country. As he seems to harbour such notion, Therese believes that it's possible to build an united front with them.

"Didn't that High Earl Mizuho-sama go to Bardiche?"

"It's because Earl Mizuho Country is essentially a different country. It has been decided that he will have an audience bringing congratulatory gifts after the emperor has been enthroned for a while and the situation has calmed down." (Therese)

At that occasion the current Earl Mizuho Country's position would be re-acknowledged by the new emperor. This also seems to be a task of a new emperor to be carried out at the beginning.

"Accordingly, that gent hasn't been dragged in like the other nobles." (Therese)

The coup d'etat has broken out three days after the enthronement of the new emperor.

The nobles, who returned to their territories ahead of time, escaped the disaster, but of the prince-elector lords who were able to flee it's probably only her, Therese said.

"Anyway, I have to raise an army. Either I die or Duke Nürnberg does. There won't be any other conclusion besides that." (Therese)

The carriage, we had boarded, successfully and safely entered the fortress which is at the national border of Earl Mizuho Country.

* * *

"It's a success."

"There were some blunders though."

Right at the same time, a single youth sat on the emperor's throne located in the Imperial Palace of Bardiche.

His name is Max Erhart Armin von Nürnberg. Changing from being a prince-elector of this Holy Empire Urquhart, he is now the mastermind of the coup d'etat.

"This has also happened thanks to you."

The coup d'etat was carried out by Duke Nürnberg household's feudal army, but naturally if it was only them, they would have no prospect of winning.

Accordingly he secretly called out for the participation of the commissioned officers, who have the same views as him, within the imperial army and they cooperated by gaining control of the military bases. They also carried out the arrest and murder of nobles.

"There's no necessity to kill small fries. Place them under house arrest." (Nürnberg)

"I will attend to it right away."

——At any rate, their territory can't do anything during the absence of their family head. Since communication has been blocked, their functions have partially fallen after parting with their family heads which are their brains.

"On the other hand, all of the prince-elector lords died." (Nürnberg)

However, this fact has been hidden.

Duke Nürnberg desires a Holy Empire Urquhart with a centralized authoritarian rule by the emperor. Prince-elector lords are unnecessary for that, but seeing that he can't suppress them immediately, it's easier to seal their movements by taking the family heads as hostages.

"For the first stage, the maximum priority lies on the suppression of the surrounding territories of Bardiche." (Nürnberg)

Almost all southern nobles are obeying the Duke Nürnberg household.

They are believing that they will be able to receive favourable treatment for their territories and positions if Duke Nürnberg, who is their patron to begin with, becomes the new emperor.

——Greedy people are easy to use.

"There are already those among the captured nobles who are yielding to our side. Order that lot to return to their territories and to prepare their soldiers."

Once the first stage of gaining total control of the southern and central areas finished, there's an opponent which has to be defeated first.

Duke Nürnberg's look shifted towards the northern part of the map he is looking at.

"Therese, were you able to run away successfully?" (Nürnberg)

She was the sole prince-elector lord who ended up getting away. It was the person called Duchess Philip.

"That woman, she will gather the northern lords and come to attack us in reverse." (Nürnberg)

"Earl Mizuho Country, too?"

"That country is well aware of my thinking. They know fully that I will dispatch soldiers, once they form an alliance." (Nürnberg)

"They are a formidable enemy."

"If I crush them altogether, it will be convenient for the distant future." (Nürnberg)

From Duke Nürnberg's point of view, the emperors until now were too lenient.

——Just because they lost many times after sending soldiers half-assedly, they have been approving of that country's independence. Thanks to that, the natural-born subjects are poor and suffering in the empire due to Mizuho's economical and technological strength. Defeating the people of Mizuho and retaliating against them who have stolen their assets and technologies, will give birth to a true, unified empire.

——No, it will be reborn.

"However, I'm uneasy about a subjugation with our current military forces... Should we proceed with the suppression of the west and east and use their military forces as well?"

"Of course we will try that, but I won't suppress them with armed might." (Nürnberg)

——I will tell those, whose family heads have been taken hostage, that their family heads will be released if they help with the defeat of Duchess Philip and the Earl Mizuho Country by dispatching soldiers. With this it will be plenty with just the nobles who send soldiers.

"If we suppress them unskillfully, there will be victims among the feudal army of the Duke Nürnberg household and the imperial army whom we can trust the most. We will defeat them with our best elites and large numbers." (Nürnberg)

The person who might come to challenge them at the present time, is only Duchess Philip. Speaking in reverse, if they defeat her, the rest will work itself out later.

"Even if we hire a large quantity of soldiers to suppress them forcibly, there's also the possibility of them betraying us if Therese is doing well. Our army is a gathering of elites. They should definitely be able to defeat her." (Nürnberg)

"However, there's one thing I'm worried about..."

"Earl Baumeister, huh...?" (Nürnberg)

Duke Nürnberg has only one opinion about Earl Baumeister.

——He is an existence that will cause damage to Holy Empire Urquhart in the future. Actually, even now, he is known as the main culprit for the economic disparity and air forces' military strength difference between Holy Empire Urquhart and Helmut Kingdom. It would be fine if he worked for himself after betraying Helmut Kingdom. I ordered the soldiers to kill him if that doesn't work out, but that developed into a failure at the site.

"Did those four brothers really persuade Earl Baumeister?" (Nürnberg)

"That I don't know."

——The real problem is that the unit, which was in charge of the guest house, was completely annihilated. All of the soldiers and knights had their heads broken, they bodies cut to pieces, their heads blown off and holes in their abdomen. It has been reported that the actual site turned into a gruesome spectacle.

"Moreover, those four brothers were killed at the standby location of the stagecoaches."

——The four brothers, without fighting with them near the mansion, have been killed at the standby location of the stagecoaches and Earl Baumeister's group can be considered to have escaped alongside Therese. Together with the soldiers who were with them, there are mostly no corpses remaining. Burned and carbonized scraps of a robe were the sole remaining proof.

"Weren't they hopeful young magicians?" (Nürnberg)

Duke Nürnberg who isn't a magician, lacks the ability to differentiate their strength.

——Hearing the reports, I have no choice but to differentiate by their spells which were presented at the skill exhibition gathering of the magicians. The rest is is from their achievements, I guess? If I remember correctly, Earl Baumeister has the accomplishment of having killed dragons. However as that's a matter of chance, even the four brothers should be able to do that if I order them to eliminate a dragon.

Duke Nürnberg had such belief.

"Armstrong's strength is known from the past. Ringstadt is a famous magician. There were also the dragon-slaying Earl Baumeister and [Storm]. However, is the difference between those four and the four brothers that much?"

"As expected, I can't believe that all of them are safe, but..."

——This elderly man, who is one of the leaders of the imperial army, isn't a magician either, but he has heard the combat ability forecast of famous magicians in Helmut Kingdom from someone who is well-informed in that. Certainly, they are excelling, but there are several famous magicians even in the empire who won't lose to them. They shouldn't have lost that one-sidedly.

"Surely it's just as you say."

——Besides, since they have many magicians, there's no way for a group with less than 10 at most to have strength to such an extent. It's fine if you can stop the peerlessness of a magician with another magician. Once that happens, the rest will be settled by the quality of the common military forces.

"There's quite a number of civilians as magicians that possess above-advanced level mana. If we gather the intermediate and elementary levelled magicians, it will be possible to overwhelm them with numbers."

"Defeating Helmut Kingdom's [Ultimate Weapon] and [Dragon Slayer] with the violence of numbers, huh?"

From the standpoint of Duke Nürnberg who is a pure soldier, that plan was in the category of satisfactorily good sense.

——No matter how strong they might be, it's unlikely that they can win against organized soldiers.

The wariness towards Earl Baumeister's party fades from within Duke Nürnberg's mind.

——The currently biggest threat is the Duke Philip household's feudal army led by Therese.

"The feudal army of the Duke Philip household is strong, but we are better than them. Half of the imperial army is following us as well. There are also the military forces of the southern lords and the nobles who have announced their allegiance to our side."

——Having seized the capital city has become our forte after all. The majority of the western and eastern lords hesitated, but a part of them actively declared their support to us.

"There's no meaning in an emperor who was only chosen traditionally. An emperor is an existence that leads his subjects with unwavering will and authority." (Nürnberg)

He is a strong person and that's why the coup d'etat succeeded.

——Right after this, I will name myself the new emperor [Holy Urquhart the First] and strive towards the goal of controlling this continent within my reign.

"Currently the suppression of the empire's centre and a listing of the nobles we won over takes priority. Once that's finished, the subjugation of Duchess Philip and Earl Mizuho Country follows at last." (Nürnberg)

——Once that happens, it's fine to wait for the fruits to fall from the tree afterwards.

After all, there are no other prince-elector lords in this world anymore besides himself and Duchess Philip.

"We can't take Therese lightly even though she's a woman. She's completely different from the other dimwitted prince-elector lords. We will prepare the soldiers while bracing ourselves." (Nürnberg)

"As you command."

Even while saying that, the shape of the already unified Holy Empire Urquhart floats in Duke Nürnberg's mind.

"By the way, it's the aforementioned device, but..."

"Is there something wrong with the aforementioned device?" (Nürnberg)

Duke Nürnberg got pissed off in his mind for being disturbed during his long-awaited time of enjoyable imaginations, but he is an important collaborator. He asked the imperial army's leader while showing a smile.

"That can continue to run for a while." (Nürnberg)

"However, it will be too much of an impediment towards the economic activities of merchants and such..."

"I guess so." (Nürnberg)

However, from Duke Nürnberg's point of view, the merits are big.

——Stealing the means of communication between nobles, it's possible to make them lose their way and isolate them. Operating the device gives us the upper hand. Since our side has previously reinforced the means of communication and reconnaissance by spies and fast horses, that state is advantageous. Even as for the economic activity, it is effective to grasp the major dealers by their necks. Besides, they should have noticed it right away. Transportation expenses for cargo and such will rise, but that will make it possible to get the upper hand in the price competition of large-scaled merchants. That greedy bunch will probably obey while complaining publicly.

"However, there will be complaints from the merchants of the central area."

"The empire is heading towards the unification of the continent. For that cause the cooperation of merchants with large amounts of capital is necessary. Small and medium merchants will be crushed and other challengers will appear right away. It will be fine if we treat only those, who stand out, favourably." (Nürnberg)

"Haa..."

And, that device.

It changed his fate. The biggest cause for continuing to use the [Magic Obstruction Device] that used technology from the era of the Ancient Magic Civilization and which was excavated from a huge underground ruin located in Nünberg Dukedom, is for the sake of lowering the power of magicians on the battlefield.

"Do you know why a dragon is powerful?" (Nürnberg)

"Is it because it releases a powerful breath?"

"There's that as well, but it's because it flies in the sky. Since humans can't fly, they are weak to attacks from above." (Nürnberg)

That was also the primary factor why the number of magic airships was counted as military force.

Also, Duke Nürnberg is a soldier. He thoroughly took into account the threat of an enemy that moves in three dimensions rather than two dimensions.

"They fire spells while flying in the air. They move to their preferred position in an instant. They communicate with distant companions in an instant. If we can prevent this, it will become possible to deal with them, no matter what powerful spells a magician can release. Even in our camp there are magicians who can deploy a strong [Magic Barrier]." (Nürnberg)

For that reason he took the time to get the [Magic Obstruction Device] operational. He spread its effective range until the limits of the magic types it jams.

"About this time there might be an uproar in the northern part of Helmut Kingdom, too. Seeing that the magic airships don't move in the north, it's possible to simply eliminate the chance for the kingdom's intervention. It might take some time, but my reforms will certainly become reality." (Nürnberg)

Duke Nürnberg had absolute confidence in his own plan.

* * *

"So, how's the situation?" (Helmut)

"In the area close to the northern national border, magic communication devices as well as magic airships can't be used."

"That's quite the strange phenomenon." (Helmut)

Moreover, at the same time, Helmut the 37th inclined his head in the royal castle in the capital Stadtburg due to the reports having arrived from the north.

Since the evening of the day before yesterday, it has suddenly become impossible to use communication magic and magic tools. The magic airships ceased to move as well. The large ships, which are managed by the kingdom, were safe since they weren't floating at that time, but the small ships, which have been used by nobles and such, have crashed.

According to the damage reports gathered at present, seven ships have crashed, a lot of its cargo has been lost and 89 people have lost their lives. Those heavy objects suddenly lost control at a height of several tens to several hundreds of meters and came down just like that. It is impossible for normal humans to be able to survive that.

What was additionally painful was the reported death of two magicians. They tried to flee from the falling ships with the spell [Flight], but as that didn't invoke, they crashed and died.

"The jamming of communication and movement magic ends at a specific range."

"The cause is Holy Empire Urquhart, I guess?" (Helmut)

"It's just as you say, Your Majesty."

With the imperial capital Bardiche as centre, it's very likely that areas in a radius of 2.000 kilometers are receiving the same jamming.

The majority of the effect was on the empire's side, but that effect has also reached a part of the kingdom's northern territories.

"Definitely carry out a follow-up on the areas which have suffered damage." (Helmut)

"Certainly!"

——There is no direct damage except the magic airships which ended up sorrowfully crashing, but it's painful that the transportation and distribution of goods by magic airships and the communication was shut down. If that's left alone as is, there is a possibility that it would trigger a stagnation of business in the areas in range of the effect.

"It's necessary to increase the carriage trips. Also, there's the increase of messengers by horses and letters, huh...?" (Helmut)

——Since there's no way we are able to increase it abruptly, there's no other way but to assign the remaining carriages to the north while increasing the transport by magic airships in the other areas. However, if we do that, this will also affect the communication and transport towards the south, which boasts of a high operating ratio, at the present state.

"In my opinion there will be a lot of indirect damage."

"Is it a scheme of Holy Empire Urquhart?" (Helmet)

"The possibility for that is high, but it's strange."

True friends don't exist between states, but even Holy Empire Urquhart shouldn't desire war with Helmut Kingdom currently.

For this reason the government officials in charge of trade expansion negotiations and their families were sent to this time's Friendship Visit Group.

"To begin with, most of those responsible for trade have already returned to our country."

Given that the emperor has died and the election deciding the new emperor has started, they were made to return to their country after leaving behind a part of a dozen personnel in charge of gathering intelligence and to attend the enthronement ceremony of the new emperor.

"Communication with the group, that stayed behind, ceased as well."

"That's because communication is impossible."

Even communication to an area which isn't affected from an area which is being jammed, and the reverse of that, has become impossible.

"Communication with the embassy has stopped as well."

Magicians, who can use [Transmission], and a stationary large-scaled magic communication device were placed there, but they can't get in touch with those either.

"Is it even impossible to get a contact to the liaison on-site?" (Helmut)

"It seems this is no good, too."

Either side's foreigners have been prohibited to go outside of the capital, but illegal spies and spying networks by natives, which were organized by the spies, naturally exist. That means even contact to them has become impossible.

"I wonder whether you are able to contact Doushi and Earl Baumeister, Your Majesty, but..."

"This might work." (Helmut)

Helmut the 37th, takes out the small hand-held magic communication device, he bought from Earl Baumeister, from his pocket. It was highly efficient and handy, but it doesn't make contact after all.

Not only are they unable to contact the other side, but the communication itself is obviously hindered.

"Will they be alright?" (Helmut)

Communication with Earl Baumeister, who is the cornerstone of the south's economic development, and the Royal Head Magician has stopped.

——If something has happened to them, the kingdom's south will fall in a state of chaos.

"They are probably safe. Rather than that, it's necessary to raise the alert level of the royal army to a level of a quasi-war." (Helmut)

Helmut the 37th didn't worry about the safety of the two at all. No matter what, he couldn't imagine the existence of anyone capable of killing them.

"Quasi-war level?"

It's an arrangement to be prepared at any time even if it turns into war. For this level to be invoked was actually the first time in 200 years.

"By looking at the circumstances, this jamming of communication is something artificial." (Helmut)

——Even for a sophisticated magician it's difficult. There's also the matter of continuing it over time. Since we can't expect that there's no legacy of the era of the Ancient Magic Civilization in the empire's underground either, there was the possibility that someone dug up such item and used it.

"For what reason?"

"That will be seen. I don't think it's only for a rebellion though." (Helmut)

——It's right after the enthronement of the new emperor. Someone disapproved of that and raised an army. Considering the difference in military forces to the imperial army, if it's for the sake of mutually stopping communication, foreign nobles will be blocked from gathering intelligence and their movements will be sealed. There should be no mistake that they are planning to occupy the empire's centre during that time.

"I see. Now's a chance."

"You, what are you talking about?" (Helmut)

"Since the empire's centre is paralysed, it's possible to win against it without even striking them with any decent moves!"

Helmut the 37th faced the noble in front of him with an expression as if he was disgusted.

That noble planned an all-out-war with the empire.

"Why do we have to place our hands on a smouldering rock*?" (Helmut)

(T/N: Author used here "a chestnut in the fire.")

Even while being astonished, he predicted that such guys will increase if the news of the empire spread after this.

From 1000 years ago to the time of the ceasefire 200 years ago it could be said that Helmut Kingdom was inferior to Holy Empire Urquhart. The empire, which was early in its unification and founding, occupied the current kingdom's northern territories in the Gigant Crevice's south and ruled over them.

The empire had been driven away to the north of the Gigant Crevice at the time of the ceasefire, but perceiving the era of its southern occupation as something disgraceful, it was possible that nobles, who start advocating the occupation of the Gigant Crevice's northern area, would increase now.

——I can understand them emotionally, however as a matter of fact the occupation of the Gigant Crevice's south by the past empire stole the national power of the empire itself.

Thanks to the Gigant Crevice itself it's mostly impossible to keep up supply by anything but magic airships.

Since the young people of major nobles and those, who obtained achievements, had already been appointed as nobles in the occupied areas, there was no way that they would abandon those. And if they did that, it was also possible that the emperor would be denounced in the congress.

In the end, you can even say that they pointlessly wasted personnel, goods and budget with the maintenance of the occupied territories until they retreated after losing the war.

If the kingdom occupied the empire's south by crossing the Gigant Crevice, it will probably assign young people of major nobles and people, who obtained achievements in the war, as nobles in the newly captured territories, too And if they get into a pinch, the royal army would be dispatched as reinforcement each time that happens.

"Have you said this after considering the budget for that? You will be likely overjoyed if we push the second sons and those below into being countryside feudal lords, but have you not taken the possibility of the kingdom's financial affairs declining into account?" (Helmut)

"However, if it's the current military strength of the air force...."

"Magic airships, eh? Haven't you been told just now that those can't be used?" (Helmut)

——In the first place, there's the problem how to dispatch soldiers in the current situation. The magic airships, which are effective in crossing the Gigant Crevice, can't be used. There's also the move of forcibly advancing by building a bridge, but that will cause difficulties once we try to retreat if the war progress becomes disadvantageous. Given that communication has been blocked as well, the probability of being unable to sufficiently command the army is high as well.

"What will you do about the supply?" (Helmut)

"Procure it locally...."

"Do you really believe that to be possible?" (Helmut)

——Pillaging the region we have to rule after the occupation; the military forces, which were dispatched on-site, would likely be meaninglessly worn down by local resistance movements and the military forces of the empire.

"It's an empty theory, isn't it?" (Helmut)

Helmut the 37th sighed in his mind due to the uselessness of this noble.

After all he is falling far behind the nobles who are serving as ministers. Even so, somehow using even such idiot is the task of a king.

"The quasi-war preparation system is also no guarantee that the other side won't come trying something." (Helmut)

——Since communication has been obstructed, we don't know the situation of the other side. The possibility that enemy forces will invade at the same time as abruptly stopping the communication blockade isn't zero either.

"And, attacking now is politically unwise, too." (Helmut)

"Really?"

While thinking that he can't use him after all, Helmut the 37th begins to explain it to the noble in front of him.

"If this was done by a rebellion, there's a possibility that it will benefit the rebels if we advance our soldiers while taking advantage of the opportunity." (Helmut)

——The current war situation is unknown, but it's difficult to imagine that the rebels have seized all of the empire at the current point in time. The chaos inside the empire might continue for a while, but what will happen if Helmut Kingdom, which is a foreign country, sends its soldiers at that point?

"Saying 'We have to oppose the foreign invaders', it might result in helping with their gathering into one entity." (Helmut)

On the basis of the great cause to recover the area which was stolen by Helmut Kingdom, it's possible that the number of nobles, who sympathize with the rebels, might increase.

"Once that happens, it's very likely that it will result in an age of war once again." (Helmut)

——The rebels should try to unify the country into one by making use of the foreign enemy. This kind of story is something that happened often since the old days.

"And our country will have its national power stolen by maintaining the occupied territories which were just seized." (Helmut)

Naturally the southern development can be expected to stagnate as well.

"Well then, I wonder whether our fellow countrymen in Bardiche are safe or not..." (Helmut)

——The concept that the empire will unlikely make a move on foreign nobles who are staying as envoys will become meaningless if the considerations up until now are true. That's because...

"The situation of there being victims will reinforce the argument for an expedition by our country." (Helmut)

There are also victims due to the crashes of the magic airships.

——It's also possible that I won't be able to suppress a dispatch of troops, if the number of militairs and nobles, who insist on revenge against the empire, increases.

"If they are aiming for that, it will be troublesome even if there are rebels." (Helmut)

——By seeming to obviously act lawlessly, they are actually trying to control our movements.

"Currently we have no other choice but to carry out makeshift solutions in order to gather as much intelligence as possible." (Helmut)

——If we do too little, it might also increase the number of nobles advocating for an expedition, but it's probably a salvation that the main faction of the army doesn't wish for a dispatch of troops, isn't it?

Minister Edgar, together with Earl Armstrong is busy in helping with the exploitation of the concessions of Herthania Valley and the south. He couldn't believe that they will approve to a war, where it's ambiguous whether they can win or not, that easily.

——There's the possibility that they might turn into expedition advocates after being told to do so by their relatives and vassals, but these kind of people are busy with the preservation of the concession leftovers as well.

——Humans are creatures who won't go to war that simply if they are content.

'It's Earl Baumeister's influence, huh...?' (Helmut)

All of it was a hindsight-based opinion, but Helmut the 37th, who is a calm ruler, considers it like that.

——Earl Baumeister is a man I can use after all.

'He is together with Klimt. Earl Baumeister shouldn't die that easily either.' (Helmut)

——Rather, I feel sympathy with the mastermind, who caused a rebellion, while these two are in the empire. That mastermind might possess some special feelings towards Earl Baumeister, but there's no way that man will lend help to a rebellion which adopted immature, idealistic thoughts. If possible, he will make sure to not get involved in it. He is sure to counter-attack fiercely, if it looks like he will be harmed. That's obvious if you look at the last days of the Margrave Browig household which has been reported to have fallen down to 3/4th of its former economic strength.

'Even so, the Margrave Browig household are nobles of his country, therefore that man has been considerate with them. No mercy dwells in him in regards to people and nobles of another country.' (Helmut)

Those, who would try to corner him, will probably suffer severe retaliation in proportion to the degree of their cornering.

'Well then, how will Holy Empire Urquhart's future turn out...?' (Helmut)

——Will the rebellion, which I expect to be mostly true, succeed or will it fail? Holy Empire Urquhart's national power will decline either way. In that case it will be fine if my Helmut Kingdom cultivates its national strength by advancing the southern development. As long as Earl Baumeister exists, it's possible. If we increase the difference in the national power between both countries, it might even become possible to annex Holy Empire Urquhart in due time. Helmut Kingdom isn't a particularly pacifistic state that completely denies wars. If it's realistically possible, I won't show any hesitation to have a war to unify the Langaia continent.

'Anyway, currently it's about how to gather precise information.' (Helmut)

After Helmut the 37th thought for a while, he began to do as much as he can with his hands in his obligation as statesman.

* * *

"Dango! I want to eat dango~!" (Wendelin)

"Earl-sama, are you a child?" (Burkhart)

"Vel, it's probably fine if you eat it later." (Ina)

"Is it as you say, Ina...? I will later eat both, mugwort-flavoured dango and skewered rice dango in sweet soy glaze. I..." (Wendelin)

* * *

Arriving safely in Earl Mizuho Country, we proved our social status in the fortress located along the national border and have been allowed to enter the country just like that.

A samurai, who was equipped with a magic katana, was urgently dispatched by the fortress after they inferred the unusual events in Bardiche.

"I'm called Teruaki Muraki." (Teruaki)

They young man, who was called a samurai, with his youthful appearance greeted us in a really polite manner.

"Did you notice the unusual events in the imperial capital after all?" (Therese)

"Eh? How?" (Wendelin)

"By using this." (Teruaki)

There was one bird resting on a perch at the place the samurai called Muraki showed us.

It can be regarded as tiny hawk, but also as large swallow. Going only by its appearance, it's a bird that appears to fly quickly.

"It's because the people of Mizuho live in the empire. You must not take their intelligence network lightly. It looks like communication spells and magic tools are no good, but if it's the Mizuho Swallow, even abnormal events in Bardiche will reach us in two - three days." (Therese)

It seems that Mizuho Swallow is the name of the fast-looking bird.

Selective breeding is popular in Earl Mizuho Country. It appears those birds are used instead of a carrier pigeons.

"We are guaranteeing several means of communication for times like these." (Teruaki)

The races, propagation and selective breeding of Mizuho Swallows has spread as hobby between the people of Mizuho and thus maintaining ((such means of communication)) seems to be easy too.

"They are faster than carriages, after all." (Therese)

"That's how it is. As for Duchess Philip-sama, do you wish for a meeting with our lord as expected?" (Teruaki)

"Correct, if possible, right away." (Therese)

"My lord wishes for that as well. I shall attend as well." (Teruaki)

Mounting a horse, he leads the progress on the mountain road towards Earl Mizuho Country and our carriage follows him.

As we ascended the mountain road for a while, we arrived at the summit after around 30 minutes. Once we did that, a mountain pass tea house, which can often be seen in historical plays and such, was built there. People of Mizuho, who wore Japanese-styled clothes, drank tea while eating dango at the shop front.

Naturally I, who is originally a Japanese, wanted to stop by. I wanted to drink tea while eating dango. However, everybody has considered it as obvious to head to the lord's mansion without dropping in on the way. You could even say that it was only natural for me, who has a different opinion in this, to make a fuss.

"Ebbo, go buy dango in a dash." (Wendelin)

I carry out the plan to make Ebbo, who is inside the carriage, do the errand.

Since he is a disagreeable guy who badly nitpicked about the attacks against people, I don't have any kind of feelings of guilt for making him run errands.

"I decline as I'm Therese-sama's retainer." (Ebbo)

"......" (Wendelin)

It's a sound argument, but even so he's an unpleasant guy.

If he had ran off while saying "Roger ~ssu!", I would have felt inclined to regard him as slightly cute.

"Even before that, if we don't exchange money, we won't be able to shop." (Ebbo)

"There's an independent currency!?" (Wendelin)

This was also evidence that Earl Mizuho Country is still an independent state. It's as Ebbo says, but I felt slightly irritated by him after all.

"However, in case of Early Mizuho Country subordinating to the empire, a currency reform will come. It's not that troublesome." (Therese)

Therese adds one more brief comment.

Between Helmut Kingdom and Holy Empire Urquhart there isn't overly much difference in the currency. Though the design of they money was different with cent as the same unit, things like the coin weight and its gold ratio had been decided in a treaty.

"One cent becomes one mon, hundred cents become one shu and 10.000 cents become one ryo in Earl Mizuho Country." (Therese)

It looks like the form of the currency is different, too.

However the coin weight and the gold ratio are not altered. It seems there's no difference in the currency conversion ratio.

"In that case, can we buy dango?" (Wendelin)

"It's different if it's a large store, but if it's at the level of a tea house, they won't accept anything but Mizuho coins." (Therese)

"No way~~~!" (Wendelin)

"Thee are acting selfishly at a strange place. I like that kind of gent though as they have a lovable nature. Feel relieved because thee will be able to exchange money without any commission at the money changer. Thee can even exchange the money of Helmut Kingdom." (Therese)

It can't be helped if I don't have the local currency. I decide to stay quiet until the carriage arrives at the lord's mansion.

Once we descend the mountain road, human habitation becomes visible, but no matter how I look at it, it's a farm village of old Japan.

Since it's currently winter, the interim crop barley has been planted in the paddy fields. Though the buildings didn't have thatch roofs made out of wood and stones, their structure was completely different from the imperial region outside because of the Japanese style.

Entering the town after the the farm village, we can finally see the lord's mansion after advancing further with the carriage.

"It's an amazing castle." (Elise)

Elise is surprised, but rather than about the lord's mansion, it was about the star-shaped stronghold which had a huge castle tower and was surrounded by a threefold moat.

An object that seemed to match the five-sided fortification at Osaka Castle, becomes visible.

"No matter how often I see it, the Mizuho Castle is huge." (Therese)

"Is it impregnable?"

"There are no castles and mansion that won't fall, but if it's about taking it, there will be many victims." (Teruaki)

Even if one attacks with a military force several times that of the defending side, very great losses will occur while taking this castle.

"Substantial victims might have appeared in the past."

"No, there's no one who was able to attack this Mizuho Castle." (Teruaki)

"Eh?"

"Given that it's a country that will be ruined if it's invaded, the Mizuho army always intercepted the enemy at the territory's border." (Teruaki)

They intercepted large armies with few after crossing the mountains.

There were many casualties as well, but since the empire's armies suffered crushing defeats, the majority of them ran away. It seems they worked hard at pillaging the surrounding areas while chasing after them. It was apparently for the sake of compensating the losses because there were many victims.

"The empire's armies would have plundered us too if they won. The empire which attacked first and then lost, was at fault. With the empire's army close to surrendering once we fought, they suffered pillaging while being chased. There would probably be no complaints if it was only the goods of the imperial army, but for the nobles, who were in vicinity of Earl Mizuho Country, it was something they couldn't endure." (Teruaki)

Since Earl Mizuho Country is a gentle partner who usually even trades with them, something like pillaging wouldn't have been done by them if the central's imperial army didn't attack. It seems there was thunderous criticism each time a campaign happened.

"It appears there was even one time a situation where they invaded at the same time from various places by forcibly making the surrounding lords mobilize." (Therese)

In the end Earl Mizuho Country's army suffered the heavy loss of losing half of its mobilized war potential, but the imperial army apparently lost more than eight times in soldiers.

"There were also places in the adjoining territories which had their feudal armies annihilated. Duke Philip household sent soldiers as well and the feudal lord at that time recorded in his diary that two thirds didn't come back." (Therese)

"Isn't that a crushing defeat?" (Erwin)

"No matter how thee gloss it over, it was a crushing defeat as thee say, Erwin." (Therese)

It appears it was an old disaster for Duke Philip household's feudal army which was solely responsible for the the northern place of attack.

"That's why they don't expand their territory. They won't come out from the Great Basin Akitsu. Such being the reason, Earl Mizuho Country followed the path of becoming a protectorate." (Therese)

Once Therese's explanation ends, the carriage arrives at the entrance to the outer garden of Mizuho Castle.

Thanks to Muraki-san who is guiding us, we cross the three-layered moat unchecked and arrive at the inner citadel located at the castle tower.

When we get off the carriage, an elderly man wearing a samurai attire appears. He appears to be a senior retainer who's more important than Muraki-san.

"I'm called Ienori Kira Mizuho. I shall guide you to lord-sama." (Ienori)

As should be expected of Therese, huh?

It looks like we can meet the feudal lord due to her being well-known.

"Mizuho? Are you that gentleman's relative?" (Therese)

"From a branch family though." (Ienori)

The people of Earl Mizuho Country all have surnames, even the commoners.

And people who have a Mizuho attached after the Kira like Ienori-san, are from a branch family or those who were awarded an honourous surname by the Mizuho household since they had remarkable achievements.

'Honestly, it's like the Edo or the Warring States period...' (Wendelin)

It resembles such stories like being given the surname of Matsudaira* or Toyotomi* for achieving meritorious deeds quite well.

(T/N: Matsudaira was a small powerful clan in the Muromachi period (1333-1537), Toyotomi is a name bestowed by the Japanese emperor to Toyotomi Hideyoshi who was the second of the three unifiers of Japan as general and politician)

"Let me lead you to lord-sama's place." (Ienori)

We enter the castle under Ienori-san's guidance, but the interior was tatami-matted with a strict prohibition to wear shoes after all. After seeing tatami for the first time in a long while, it has a nostalgic aura.

"Cloth boots?"

Given that everyone was barefoot after taking off their shoes and boots, Ienori-san lent us tabi, but it seems everyone feels uncomfortable wearing tabi for the first time.

(Tabi: Japanese Socks with split toe)

"However, it can't prevent getting mouldy." (Burkhart)

"Burkhart-san, is your prevention against yeast infection on your feet alright?" (Wendelin)

"Earl-sama, I don't have any yeast infection on my feet." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san particularly stressed the matter of him not having a yeast infection on his feet.

"You can say it's an occupational disease of adventurers and soldiers. The inside of the boots moulders due to moving and marching for long periods. Let's try buying this before returning home." (Armstrong)

Doushi didn't deny the fact of him having athlete's feet.

"Was the floor spread knit with grass? It's unusual." (Katharina)

Katharina gazed at the tatami looking very interested while walking on top of it.

"There's a door which opens if shifted to the side." (Luise)

"Curtains which put paper in wooden frames? Really strange." (Ina)

"What a peculiar vase." (Wilma)

Showing astounded expressions, Luise looks at a fusuma*, Ina at a shoji* and Wilma gazes at a decorated flower arrangement.

(T/N: fusuma is a Japanese sliding door and shoji is a paper sliding door)

They seem to be very deeply interested in things they haven't ever seen until now such as transoms, tokonoma's* and the hanging scrolls and earthenware displayed there.

(T/N: tokonoma is an alcove where art or such is displayed)

"We are probably the first who entered Earl Mizuho Country as people of Helmut Kingdom." (Armstrong)

It's as Doushi says.

The people of Helmut Kingdom had been prohibited to leave Bardiche. There might also be people who have violated this among them, but they shouldn't have been able to enter Earl Mizuho Country that easily since it's treated as yet another country.

"It wasn't even noted down in the traveler's journal records written by my master." (Burkhart)

There is little to no description about Earl Mizuho Country by Margrave Breithilde. He only wrote about his impressions of the Mizuho-styled buildings he noticed in Bardiche.

"This way, please." (Ienori)

The audience room is located at the top floor of the castle tower.

Once we enter inside guided by Ienori-san, High Earl Mizuho sat in a tatami-matted chief seat completely like it could be seen in historical plays.

His age is around fifty years, I guess. His stance is that of being in proper seiza. He is a man that gives the feeling that he's really capable.

Expensive-looking vases and hanging scrolls, which looked like landscape pictures drawn with octopus ink, were displayed in a tokonoma behind him. There's even a page who looks after the lord's katana. It's completely like a historical drama.

His appearance is exactly that of a Japanese daimyo. What's different in the showy visible impression is probably the point that no one has fastened their hair in a topknot.

"It's been a while, Duchess Philip-dono." (Mizuho)

"Around one year, I suppose? We met at the time when I was summoned to Bardiche, I guess?" (Therese)

"It feels like that's about right. It was a misfortune that the coup d'etat happened at the time of your duty in the imperial capital. There's no such obligation in our Earl Country though." (Mizuho)

The three lowest among the seven Dukes have the duty to be stationed in Bardiche to support the emperor. It seems the coup d'etat and the late emperor's demise ended up occuring at the time when Therese was on duty.

But then again, since there was His Majesty's funeral service, all of the prince-elector lords were stationed in the imperial capital.

"That's very enviable. Someone like me has escaped barely alive and exposed this kind of disgraceful conduct." (Therese)

"I suppose it's a success with just you being able to run away. Oops, I'd like you to introduce the guests next to you." (Mizuho)

"They are my benefactors." (Therese)

Being introduced to High Earl Mizuho by Therese, High Earl Mizuho introduces himself next as well.

"I'm High Earl Mizuho, Toyomune Mizuho. You are Helmut Kingdom's Ultimate Weapon-dono and Dragon Slayer-dono, right? Indeed, Duchess Philip's luck seems to be great." (Toyomune)

"Otherwise an escape would have been difficult. And, well..." (Therese)

"If it's soldiers, I will dispatch them." (Toyomune)

"That's a quick answer." (Therese)

It's the first expedition of Earl Mizuho Country's army which has never experienced a foreign campaign until now.

Therese, who assumed they would need time to consider it, was surprised by the swift decision of High Earl Mizuho.

"It's because that Duke Nürnberg seems to detest our country." (Toyomune)

Earl Mizuho Country runs counter to a single powerful empire. If he, who is also a patriot, is allowed to speak out, his view is that it's only natural to destroy Earl Mizuho Country which badly damaged the imperial army until now.

"He is probably thinking that crushing this place is connected to the future of the empire, no matter how much sacrifices it will produce." (Toyomune)

To begin with, Mizuho's funds and people are receiving quite the damage by his patriotic political measures in Nürnberg Dukedom.

Even though they are already antagonized in peaceful times, it will likely be like that all the more in times of war.

"All the assets of Earl Mizuho Country, which are inside Nürnberg Dukedom, have been confiscated. Almost all of the people of Mizuho have been arrested and even women and children have apparently been sent to detention facilities." (Toyomune)

"It's a thorough enforcement." (Therese)

"Here's the latest report by the swallow mail. The same situation occurs in the empire."

In addition, the assets and people of the Lan tribe, which is the major ethnic group of Philip Dukedom, are suffering the same damages. It seems to also apply for other minorities.

"It's gotten out of order." (Wendelin)

"For that man it's justice, Earl Baumeister." (Toyomune)

However, well, I think that the empire also did well at keeping such dangerous man as the Duke at bay. I wonder whether it wasn't possible to disinherit him somehow?

"That man intends to overrun our Philip Dukedom, too. Rather than crushing each by their own, it will be better for him if we join forces from the beginning." (Therese)

"I guess so. However, does that man really understand?" (Toyomune)

"About what?"

"A single strong empire is absurd." (Toyomune)

The people who are in the vicinity of the imperial capital Bardiche, are conveniently calling themselves Urquhart people, but considering the details, they were an assembly of a great number of ethnic groups.

As there isn't overly much difference between them since their language and religion is identical, they simply called themselves Urquhart people on their own accord in order for the empire to show its sense of unity.

"That's why they targeted the Mizuho people with their black hair and the Lan tribe with its different skin colour."

Once they are destroyed completely, the confiscated gains from there will be distributed to the self-proclaimed Urquhart people.

Once that happens, they should be able to expect the loyalty of the neutral groups as well.

'A pure ultranationalist, or rather...' (Wendelin)

No matter how I think about it, he was a person I want to avoid forming friendly ties with.

"I shall hasten the preparation of the soldiers." (Toyomune)

"I will have the Philip Dukedom and the northern lords mobilize, too." (Therese)

At the same time she will call out to the eastern and western lords, she explained to High Earl Mizuho.

"Even if it's a lost case, we can expect for a few to participate." (Therese)

It's not like everybody should approve of the radical Duke Nürnberg.

"Both parties are getting their armies ready to kill each other and the surviving side will take the victory, huh? That's easy to understand. So, what will thee do, Doushi-dono and Earl Baumeister-dono?" (Therese)

Given that we are in front of High Earl Mizuho, Therese called me Earl Baumeister for a change.

"Let's see. We have already embarked, thus treat us as mercenaries, please." (Wendelin)

It's also fine to make plans for returning back to Helmut Kingdom just like that, but difficulties have to be expected on the land and sea routes. There's something annoying, too.

It's the existence of Duke Nürnberg's operating magic tool, which obstructs movement and communication magic, in Bardiche. As it seems to have the power for working at quite the vast range, victims should have appeared even in Helmut Kingdom by now.

If we tried to forcibly return at this point, it would make no sense if it was in a state of being unable to use communication and movement magic until our territory.

If the magic airships don't work in the Savage Lands, it will be a big hindrance in the development. In that case it won't do unless we destroy this magic tool to smithereens. Even if Therese's group wins against Duke Nürnberg, there's no point if the tool remains on Holy Empire Urquhart's side.

'Dear, are you aiming for the destruction of that magic tool after all?' (Elise)

'I can't keep secrets from you, Elise' (Wendelin)

"The reward will be piecework payment of items that can be taken with us." (Wendelin)

After a short exchange by whispering with Elise, we announce our participation as mercenaries.

I decide to not mention anything about the destruction of the aforementioned magic tool. Since they might scheme to try keeping it if we talked about it unskillfully, I decided to destroy it by taking advantage of the military operation in the end.

'It's fine like that.' (Burkhart)

'I agree as well.' (Armstrong)

Burkhart-san and Doushi seem to share the same opinion. I have expected those two to realize it.

Yielding such dangerous magic tool to a hypothetical enemy is something risky. They should understand that better than anyone else.

"It's the participation of influential war potential, isn't it? That helps us, doesn't it, Duchess Philip." (Toyomune)

"However, the condition of the reward is quite vague. Isn't there something more specific?" (Therese)

"It's something to actually work for, right? Watching their activities, you shall grant them an appropriate reward, Therese-dono. It's a necessary ability for the next emperor candidate." (Toyomune)

Even we, seeing that we are proceeding towards fighting ourselves, have no intention to lose.

Naturally we will aim for victory, but how much of a reward will Therese hand out for the distinguished war service we obtained. This will not only be circulated to the nobles of her own country but also to Helmut Kingdom, too.

If it's too little and stingy, she will be ridiculed by the neighbouring country and the nobles of her own country will be disappointed in their new empress as well. It was a difficult homework requiring a certain level of backbone.

"The next emperor of... I have the resolution for that." (Therese)

The survival of the prince-elector lords, who stayed in the imperial capital at that time, and Urquhart the 17th, who was just enthroned, is unknown. There was the possibility that they have been confined while being alive, but it will probably be wrong if we don't operate here with the assumption that they were killed.

"You have the misfortune of becoming the first empress due to a disastrous reason, Therese-dono. As for the participation of Earl Baumeister's group in the war, the conditions will become a bit better, won't they? Let's gather the soldiers at once. There's also a reason to dispatch the soldiers. That man has turned his hands on our fellow brethren who aren't soldiers." (Toyomune)

He's likely talking about the seizure of property from the Mizuho funds, which has been carried out in the south and its capital city, as well as the deportation of the people of Mizuho to detention facilities.

"Well then, we will ((head out)) at this point." (Therese)

"I understand your feelings, but assembling an army will take time anyway. Take it easy and stay at least for one night as well, Duchess Philip. If you cross the northern mountain road, you will immediately arrive in the Philip Dukedom after all." (Toyomune)

"That's right, isn't it? I will also be troubled if you were to collapse at this point, Therese-dono." (Wendelin)

"See, even Earl Baumeister-dono says so." (Toyomune)

"Understood. I shall have you let me rest without reservation." (Therese)

But then again I simply told them a reason that seems authentic.

My objective is only one.

I want to go sightseeing in Earl Mizuho Country.

There should be a lot of things I can't overlook. especially on the side of foodstuff.

"As a matter of fact, there's one reward I'd like you to promise me, but..." (Wendelin)

Since Duchess Philip and High Earl Mizuho accepted my condition right away, I decided to enjoy the Earl Mizuho Country sightseeing without any misgivings.

Chapter 83: Sightseeing in Earl Mizuho Country

"Speaking of which, what have you requested there all of a sudden? Though it's great it was accepted." (Ina)

"You know, the permit doesn't cost us anything, and there are benefits as well." (Wendelin)

* * *

With Therese's request for reinforcements from Earl Mizuho Country granted, we decide to leave Mizuho Castle and sightsee in Mizuho.

As it seems we have been provided a reservation in a high-class hot-spring hotel which has open air baths available at night, I look forward to this as well.

To the spa and delicious Japanese cuisine, that is. Just how much luxury is that, I wonder?

Given that we are only staying for one night, I have to start the sightseeing and the selection of souvenirs in a hurry. As it's no good if I don't eat delicious food, I don't even have a second to lose now. I rush to the money exchanger to change my Helmut Kingdom currency into that of Mizuho.

The copper coins are square with a round hole in them. The silver coins are oblong resembling a silver quarter ryou from the Edo period. With the gold coin being a koban* itself, ten gold coins are a large koban which is called [Ten Ryou] ooban.

(T/N: A ryou was a gold currency unit in pre-Meiji Japan Shakkanhou system. It was eventually replaced with a system based on the yen. The Tokugawa shogunate attempted to create a central currency, based on gold, silver and copper units all exchangeable at fixed rates. Oblong gold coins, called koban, were minted with one koban containing about one ryō of gold, so that koban carried a face value of one ryō. The official rate was set in 1609 at one ryō equal to 50 monme (approx 187 grams) of silver, or 4000 brass coins. However, in reality the relative values between gold, silver and brass currencies fluctuates almost on a daily basis throughout the Edo period. (source wiki))

There are differences in their shape, unit system and names, but it's not overly complex as there's no difference in the quantity of gold, silver and copper used.

Well then, as I'm walking in the city wondering what to buy, Ina came asking about the reward some time ago.

"It won't be fulfilled if we don't win anyway. Even if we get the reward, there won't be any loss to the empire." (Wendelin)

The condition, which I set, is a permission to have direct trade between Baumeister Earldom and Earl Mizuho Country.

As there's also the matter of distance and the number of magic airships, I will probably just come to buy things with [Teleportation], but it means that I'm lawfully allowed to do so.

Of course High Earl Mizuho has accepted that unconditionally. But that's only natural as an increase in sales is a cause for celebrations after all.

"You want some products of Earl Mizuho Country that much?" (Ina)

"Yes! If possible I want to buy up all of it!" (Wendelin)

Getting all psyched up, I exchanged an amount of 100 million cents, but upon reflection I came to the conclusion that it's not good to buy up a large quantity of goods and food since we will head into battle after this. Instead it's probably necessary keep the quantity down as much as possible while increasing the variety.

"First is the tea house I failed to visit." (Wendelin)

"You are quite fixated on that one, aren't you?" (Katharina)

"I haven't eaten anything since this morning after all. Are you not going to eat, Katharina?" (Wendelin)

"I will, but..." (Katharina)

Because we cannot visit the tea house at the ridge, we enter one in the city, but the city's appearance and the tea house's interior completely looked like a scene from a historical drama.

Commoners and peddlers are eating dango and such while drinking tea.

"Welcome to our shop!" (???)

A pretty poster girl*, who wore an apron and a Mizuho uniform, which resembles a kimono quite well, shows up.

(T/N: kanbanmusume ... a pretty girl to attract customers)

Her age probably isn't that different from ours. Her black hair, which extended down to her hips, was tied up in a bundle in the back. She was an orthodox, Japanese-styled beauty. That's a pretty poster girl for you.

"What's your order?" (Poster Girl)

"Your love, please." (Erwin)

"Err..." (Poster Girl)

"Humph!" (Burkhart)

"Ouuch!" (Erwin)

As the other party is a beautiful girl, Eru immediately tries to pick her up, but mine and Burkhart-san's fists drop on his head making him sit down on his seat forcibly.

"Don't make me lose face!" (Wendelin)

"But, I want to be loved..." (Erwin)

"Did something happen with that man?" (Therese)

"He had his heart broken a little while ago, you see." (Wendelin)

"I see..." (Therese)

Therese faced the playboying Eru with a slightly sympathetic look.

"Even though his face is nice, a woman will pull back since he's too greedy." (Therese)

Therese's analysis was 120% correct. However, I do believe that she shouldn't talk about someone else's matters.

"Excuse me, what's your order?" (Poster Girl)

It seems that the poster girl is used to handling such guests. Without any care, she asks us about our order.

"Tea for everyone! And the entire menu!" (Armstrong)

"All of it?" (Poster Girl)

"Indeed! Everything!" (Armstrong)

Doushi was a free spirit in a different meaning. He orders the shop's entire menu.

As it appears that even the poster girl didn't anticipate such a development, she's quite surprised.

"Doushi, can you eat that much?" (Burkhart)

"No worries!" (Armstrong)

"It's alright." (Wilma)

Burkhart-san asks while looking worried, but in addition to Doushi there's Wilma here as well. There's probably no need to worry if it's at the level of a tea houses' menu.

"I will start from the dango's." (Wendelin)

Simple white dango's, herb dango's with anko in it, and skewered dango's in a sweet soy glaze; the sweetness of eating them after a long time drags me into a maelstrom of deep emotions.

"They are delicious, aren't they, dear?" (Elise)

"I'm inferior to a professional after all, huh?" (Wendelin)

"Next time we will challenge it, too. Let's go back after buying the ingredients. It's said that if the climate and soil quality is different, even the same crops taste differently." (Elise)

Certainly, the taste of rice and adzuki beans might be nice in Earl Mizuho country where the winters are cold. As expected of Elise who is an expert in cooking. She pointed that fact out quickly.

"The things you occasionally make, Vel, they were dishes from Mizuho. How did you know about those?" (Ina)

"From the library in Breitburg." (Wendelin)

Ina asks a perceptive question, but the library of Breitburg has the feudal lord's support and boasts of a scale in the number of books collected that ranks second to only the royal capital Stadtburg.

As expected, since even Ina hasn't seen through all the books in the library, she didn't realize that I'm lying.

"Wendelin, thee are interested in books and food? It seems like we will get along." (Therese)

"Therese-dono, are you skilled at cooking?" (Wendelin)

"Somewhat. I can't make too many dishes, but what I can do isn't limited to trivial dishes either." (Therese)

That's what Therese says, but since I don't know her cooking ability there wasn't anything I could reply to it. If I actually have her make me something, it's possible that she will make me eat something outrageous.

Currently I don't even have time for such things. Ignoring it here is probably the intelligent solution.

"The sweet red-bean soup is delicious, but I wonder how they are getting their hands on sugar?" (Luise)

"The sugar is harvested from sugar beets." (Poster Girl)

Poster girl-san answers Luise's question.

Given that the sugar coming from sugar canes has a high price as an imported spice, it seems to be normal to obtain sugar from sugar beets in Earl Mizuho Country.

It seems that the remains of the squeezed beets are used as fodder for the cattle.

"That's not different from the sugar from the sugar cane."

"Since its similarly sweet, I will end up getting fat again." (Katharina)

"Though you are often saying that, Katharina, you actually appear to not weigh much..."

When we eat sweets, Katharina always says that she will become fat if she doesn't diet. It's really strange since she isn't gaining weight like the bourgeois wives of the capital.

"Is that so?" (Katharina)

"Mostly the feeling of her cheeks when embracing her." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin-san..." (Katharina)

Katharina ends up being astonished, but this is also a point I won't concede on.

Although being overweight isn't good, it's also a fact that I'm not attracted to overly thin women. However it's often said that women are fussy if many of them gather in one place.

I ate delicious-looking food while talking with Elise and the others, but among them there were two people who were creating an odd scenery.

"All of them are delicious!" (Armstrong)

"It's time for another round." (Wilma)

"Certainly, it is as you say! Onee-san! Get us the entire menu once more!" (Armstrong)

"Once more!?" (Poster Girl)

While piling up a large amounts of plates, Doushi and Wilma were devouring heaps of sweets and even demanded a second serving in the end.

Even the poster girl ends up reflexively raising her voice at Doushi who ordered the entire menu twice.

"You two, are you alright?" (Burkhart)

Cutting a single sweet bean jelly into small pieces and eating those, Burkhart-san was truly worried about those two while showing an expression as if he had a sour stomach.

"No problem!" (Armstrong)

"Plenty of room left." (Wilma)

"If you say so..." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san, who finished eating the sweet bean jelly, was amazed by the appetite of those two. It's probably supported by his feeling of wanting to drink alcohol soon though.

"There were many things I ate for the first time, and they were very delicious, too!" (Armstrong)

"Satisfied." (Wilma)

"That is, if you eat that much..."

Having savoured sweetness at the tea house, we move towards the next shop.

Burkhart-san was astonished at Doushi and Wilma who ate a dreadful amount of sweets, but even I want to tell them various things.

"There's still plenty of food ahead of us, but..."

Certainly, the sweets, which were served in the tea house, were delicious if compared to the things I created with my low cooking skill.

Now that I think about it, those were dishes I created by using trial and error while suffering hardships in the Savage Lands during my loner childhood, but one should go to specialists for the best results after all.

This means it might be necessary to hire a cook from the Mizuho people. I decided that I will consult about this later with High Earl Mizuho.

"Don't fret! My stomach is only filled by less than half!" (Armstrong)

"Lots of room left here as well." (Wilma)

"Then it's fine." (Wendelin)

"Is it really!?" (Erwin)

Eru, who failed to pick up the poster girl, retorts at me, but since we are still going to get other food, it will be problematic if I tell them that they can't eat it.

As it's impolite to not order anything after entering a store, there's no problem as long as they can eat. The bill won't be that large either.

"Next is... Found it!" (Wendelin)

[Soba] is written on a sign curtain hung at the shop's entrance. I'm finally able to eat soba after coming to this world.

Since it would kick up too much of a fuss and as I would be considered weird, I enter the store's inside while pretending to have found this store spontaneously.

"They serve both, chilled and hot soba." (Wendelin)

I enjoy both options, but Elise's group didn't order anything but one type.

"Get us the entire menu." (Armstrong)

"Looking forward to it." (Wilma)

"All of it, dear customer?" (Onee-san)

"Don't worry since we can eat it without any problems!" (Armstrong)

"As you wish..." (Onee-san)

These two once again surprised the soba restaurant's onee-san, who came to take our orders.

"It's delicious, you know?"

Since there was soba in the south as well, I tried to obtain and make them, but with my skill they ended up becoming thick pasta noodles.

I tried to experiment with noodle sauces as well, but the taste was lacking. Soba is food you can't make successfully unless you have a certain degree of knowledge. Despite that, it can be normally eaten in this Earl Mizuho Country.

Going by the current situation, I should be able to greatly look forward to other Japanese food, too. However, there's a single problem.

"Even though it's the long-awaited Mizuho cooking, we can only eat it until tomorrow morning." (Wendelin)

Since dinner will be served at the high-class hot-spring hotel High Earl Mizuho prepared for us, I should be able to expect a lot from the alcohol and the food. But, there's also the trap called dinner and breakfast being at fixed times.

I want to eat various dishes until we have to return if possible, but if I overeat too much, dinner won't fit in my stomach anymore. That's a seriously troubling matter.

"As I have a limited stomach size, the problem is what I shall eat, I guess." (Wendelin)

"Why are you seriously worrying about such stuff...?" (Erwin)

Eru looked at me with an expression showing that he doesn't comprehend.

"If only I could eat as much as Doushi and Wilma." (Wendelin)

"Imitating those two is dangerous." (Erwin)

I end up being considered a strange fellow by Eru, but I didn't want to be told that by someone whose pick-up attempt was ignored by the waitress-san even in this soba restaurant.

"Then, you try to pick her up, Vel! You will definitely fail!" (Erwin)

It's impossible for me to do that. Even though I have come here to eat, why do I have to do something like picking up girls?

One thing has nothing to do with the other, I believe. And, Eru has forgotten the most important fact.

"——What kind of stupid stuff are you saying...?" (Ina)

Though I stopped while thinking 'Damn it', it was already too late.

"Eru, what will you do if he really gets deceived by someone because of that?" (Luise)

"I don't wish to increase the quarrel over household affairs." (Elise)

"Useless retainer. You can't even pick up any girls." (Wilma)

"I believe that many women would swarm him if Wendelin-san did something like acting like a playboy, but..." (Katharina)

"Damn it! Just where can I find my own looove~~~!?" (Erwin)

Eru, who was called worthless by Elise and the other women, began to stress eat soba.

"If they are selling noodle sauce and dried noodles, we will be able to eat soba at any time." (Wendelin)

"Are you that pleased with it?" (Burkhart)

"Yes. How about the alcohol, Burkhart-san?" (Wendelin)

"This cold alcohol, it's delicious. Let's buy it and go back." (Burkhart)

Rather than the soba, Burkhart-san apparently liked the Japanese sake-like alcohol which he had ordered as supplement. He had another cup of the cold alcohol while eating soba dumplings as a side dish.

'I saw those kinds of old men in soba restaurants on my days off.' (Wendelin)

Of course that's an event which happened in Japan.

"Earl-sama, you didn't think about something rude just now, did you?" (Burkhart)

"No (isn't he a perceptive one...). Onee-san, about this alcohol." (Wendelin)

Once I ask the young waitress-san about the alcohol in order to dodge the question, it seems to be called Mizuho Sake which uses rice as an ingredient.

"(I guess it's Japanese rice wine after all.)" (Wendelin)

I try to sample it and the taste was the one of Japanese sake.

"Now then, I'm greatly satisfied." (Armstrong)

"Thanks for the treat. Since I've heard that it's healthy to eat moderately, I will stop around here." (Wilma)

Wilma said something dreadful, but I decided that I didn't hear it.

Once we finished our meal at the soba restaurant and left the store, Wilma and Doushi, who ate a large quantity in this place as well, revealed satisfied expressions while stroking their bellies.

"I think that's only natural considering how much you have eaten though." (Erwin)

On this topic, Eru is right with what he's saying.

"Next is shopping, I suppose." (Wendelin)

Clothes will be first since there are many women, but this is Earl Mizuho Country.

As those clothes are basically items which are called Mizuho clothes and use the same way of wearing as kimonos, it's futile if I don't recall how to fit kimonos.

Elise's group is happily checking ornate hairpins, which had expensive jewels attached to them, and Mizuho clothes with beautiful patterns in a high-class-looking store which had [Dry Goods] written on its signboard, but they decided to buy them on the next occasion.

"It's regrettable, isn't it? Let's hire a maid who is capable of helping with the dressing." (Wendelin)

"I think that's too extravagant."

"I do have money after all." (Wendelin)

I will negotiate with High Earl Mizuho about a maid, who can help with the dressing, later as well, I guess.

"Earl-sama, you usually don't live very luxuriously, do you?" (Burkhart)

As Burkhart-san says, our usual livelihood isn't that extravagant. Since we belong to an Earl household, we keep up the minimum of outwards appearance, but the inside isn't like that at all. Given that we are also working as adventurers, there isn't any great difference to other adventurers when we are camping.

Even the ingredients such as choco, the native fruits of the Demon Forest and the monster meat weren't paid with money since we are actually getting them ourselves. Import and purchase of food is probably the entry in the account book with the highest expenses.

"Wendelin, thee are gentle to thy wives." (Therese)

"Really?" (Wendelin)

"As I'm a Duchess, I'm getting bored by nothing but strangely servile folks. The ones who praise the clothes I tried on are only the merchants, who want me to buy them, and retainers who will never tell me that they don't suit me." (Therese)

At least at the time she wore clothes, she'd like to have a man capable of normally telling her whether those clothes suit her or not. In Therese's current position that was also a wish that can't be granted to begin with though.

"Even if Mizuho clothes are impossible, can we at least buy accessories?"

The shop next door was selling accessory cases and combs which had expensive ornaments embedded as lacquerware. In addition there are also expensive tea utensils, lacquer work and hanging scrolls. There's indeed a great number of Japanese-like goods being sold.

"Elise, how about this comb?" (Wendelin)

"It's easy to use and enters the hair gently." (Elise)

Since the merchandise isn't that expensive, Elise and the others buy the ones they like one after the other.

"By the way, Wendelin, can't thou buy one for me?" (Therese)

"No... That might be impossible..." (Wendelin)

If I suddenly bought something for a noble from a foreign country and moreover a woman who isn't my wife or lover, strange rumours would very likely spread.

Besides, currently my position is just that of a magician who was hired by Therese. It would be preposterous to give a present to a person in such high position.

"Even if it does turn into a rumour, I won't particularly mind though." (Therese)

"I will be the one troubled by it!" (Wendelin)

If the nobles of Helmut Kingdom learned of it, there would definitely be some among them starting to say such things as, "Earl Baumeister was ensnared by a prince-elector of Holy Empire Urquhart" or "He succumbed to her allure".

"Next is a magic tools shop, huh...?" (Wendelin)

Once we entered another magic tool shop, a lot of articles were lined up inside. Even though its outward appearance is Japanese-styled, it's spacious completely like a large consumer electronics shop.

"Welcome!" (Store Clerk)

After browsing through the displayed items, many of them are general-purpose items and all of them are smaller and their price is around twice as expensive as the the ones in Helmut Kingdom.

But, as it seems that their mana consumption efficiency is great according to the clerk's explanation, many of them run for around 30% longer than the ones in Helmut Kingdom if they are charged with the same amount of mana.

They excel at miniaturization and mana conservation techniques. Surely the items were similar to those made in Japan.

"The magic tools created by Earl Mizuho Country have a higher efficiency and power than those made by the empire."

There isn't that much of a difference in performance between the magic tools produced by the empire and the kingdom. In other words, it was no exaggeration to call Earl Mizuho Country the best on the continent at the current point in time.

However, we didn't buy any. The magic tool types, which we discovered in the underground storehouse in the Demon Forest, were highly efficient after all.

'However, the shapes and the arrangement of the switches is quite similar, isn't it...?' (Wendelin)

Apparently Earl Mizuho Country has existed since the time when the empire was a small kingdom in the south.

Though it's only a small portion of the Mizuho clan members who seem to know about their roots, they might have moved here from the area around the Demon Forest. If that was the case it would explain them possessing a unique, advanced magic tool production technology.

What might have caused the technological level to drop in comparison to the past possibly was the matter of losing a lot of skills during their nomadic period.

"You aren't buying, Vel?" (Ina)

"The performance of the items from the underground storehouse, we found in the Demon Forest, is good." (Wendelin)

"Now that you mention it, that's certainly true." (Ina)

"Aah! But let's buy some." (Wendelin)

"Perhaps for selling them to the magic tool guild?" (Ina)

According to Ina's thinking, we should be able to make some profit by selling the tools to them.

The magic tool guild has bought a large quantity of the items, we discovered in the underground storehouse in the Demon Forest, and all the remains of the Rock Gigant Golem by relying fully on their too excessive assets. All of it was for the sake of new technological development for magic tools, but frankly, the results are questionable.

With them being repeatedly told by their surroundings that they have no results to show, they should buy the magic tools of Earl Mizuho Country as examples for a high price all the more.

"It looks like it's pretty much prohibited to take them along to a foreign country." (Therese)

"Is that okay?" (Wendelin)

"The items are circulated into the empire. I think there are also some among the kingdom's nobles who possess some." (Therese)

Since those are items which can be bought in the empire if you pay money, it's impossible that not a single magic tool has made its way out to the kingdom as well. Besides, even the empire hasn't caught up to the performance of the magic tools produced by Earl Mizuho Country. That was also evidence for the production technology being hidden.

"That bunch from the magic tool guild. They will likely buy it since they have the money. It would be no more than earning some extra money." (Wendelin)

Even if they aren't able to buy them, it will likely yield a good profit if we sell them to someone else. The share, which isn't affected by import taxes, can be sold cheaply within Baumeister Earldom.

"All types." (Wendelin)

"Umm, customer-sama?" (Store Clerk)

"As I said, give me all types." (Wendelin)

"Err... Are you really sure?" (Store Clerk)

"Yes, really." (Wendelin)

"As a matter of fact, there are also items I recommend except those on display." (Store Clerk)

Once I placed a large amount of oobans in front of the clerk, he received me while having a face full of smiles. He brings out the items which weren't lined up at the storefront and explains their uses politely.

"I look forward to you visiting our store once again." (Store Clerk)

Having bought all types of the magic tool shop's merchandise, we head straight to the grocer.

In reality the magic tools don't matter. This place is Earl Mizuho Country which owns a Japanese-styled culture. In that case there's only one item I want.

"I have been defeated after all, haven't I...?" (Wendelin)

"Ah, they have the Miso and Soy Sauce that you created, Vel." (Luise)

Luise was surprised by the miso and soy sauce of which there are many varieties.

"Say Vel, you reproduced the flavouring of Earl Mizuho Country, didn't you?" (Luise)

"I guess those were created by Earl Mizuho Country. I didn't realize since it was written in a worn-out book in the library." (Wendelin)

Though I'm repeating myself here, but that's of course a lie. Since Luise hasn't the hobby of going to the library to read books, she probably won't ever realize it.

"『Strong Flavour』, 『Light Flavour』 and 『Tamari*』; they have a wide range, don't they?" (Wendelin)

(T/N: variety of rich soy sauce)

That applies to soy sauce but there is even miso resembling Hacchou Miso* and light-brown miso ranging from sweet to salty flavour. Of course I bought all types.

(T/N: a special miso produced in Okazaki City in the Aichi Prefecture)

"The qualities of kombu, katsuobushi, the noodle sauces, ponzu, tsukemono, nori and rice is great, isn't it..." (Wendelin)

(T/N: Google them if interested, can't be bothered any more with all that food stuff...)

This place is a goldmine.

Although I can't buy too much since we will go to war soon, it will probably be alright for a while if it's just the share we use up by ourselves.

"They have dried noodles as well, don't they!?" (Wendelin)

Since they were also selling dried soba and udon noodles, I bought these to some extent, too.

"Oops! Forgetting mirin is no good!" (Wendelin)

(mirin - A sweet Japanese sake. It has 14% alcohol and is produced by using sticky rice and shouchou)

Alcohol and Mizuho Sake was also sold. A large quantity of shochus made out of rice, wheat and potatoes. These can be used for cooking as well, and not just for drinking.

It's a place where I want to buy as much as possible.

"Shishou-sama, why is Wendelin-san that happy?" (Katharina)

"He's been such a man for a long time. It's not like he's enticing women, so, isn't it fine?" (Burkhart)

"I guess so. I think it's cute, but..." (Katharina)

It appears that Burkhart-san and Katharina are talking about something behind me, but deciding to not mind it, I bought up large amounts of ingredients and seasoning made in Earl Mizuho Country from then on.

* * *

"It looks like you are pleased with Earl Mizuho Country, Earl Baumeister-dono." (Toyomune)

"Yes, thus please make sure that I can come here freely." (Wendelin)

"I have to coordinate it with Duchess Philip-dono and the empire as well, but the part of you spending money while shopping is very welcome." (Toyomune)

"I'm sure you want to protect the citizen's livelihood by improving the economic activity." (Wendelin)

"It helps that you understand quickly, Earl Baumeister-dono." (Toyomune)

Once we headed to the high-class inn, which was assigned to us, as it became evening, a banquet sponsored by High Earl Mizuho was held there. Since it's a hot-spring hotel, we are also wearing the yukata which were provided by the inn.

As the bath is a naturally circulating hot spring that's fed by a source, it's effective against nerve pain and rheumatism. With it apparently having the legend of improving childbirth in addition, Elise and the other girls told me that they want to enter it quickly. There's an open air bath, too. It looks like mixed bathing is possible today.

But first comes the meal.

Once we enter the tatami-matted banquet hall, numerous dishes, which appeared usually at obon, were lined up.

Sashimi, tempura, high-priced cow and pig meat that was roasted with nabe with small seafood. It's a deluxe edition of the menu I ate at the time when I went on the company outing at a hot-spring hotel in my previous life.

"I want a cook as well..." (Wendelin)

"The people's migration belongs in the sphere of the empire's government's field of duty. I can't tell them anything in that regard." (Toyomune)

"Therese-dono?" (Wendelin)

"Wendelin, the parts thou fuss about are unusual for a noble." (Therese)

Even if I'm told that, it's necessary to employ Mizuho people from now on to have them help Elise and the others putting on kimonos and yukatas as well as to have a skilled cook make Mizuho food.

That's something I won't yield on. No, it's for that reason that I will once again kill people.

If others learn of that fact, I will doubtlessly be treated as savage. At least officially I'm moving for the sake of both countries' stability.

"Let's go with a toast then?"

It seems that they don't hold overly formal banquets in Earl Mizuho Country. I hear that they hold a banquet in such format, no matter who visits them.

"I like it, but there are many folks panicking about His Majesty the Emperor being forced to sit on the floor." (Therese)

Although there are flat floor cushions, tatami are treated as floor in the empire's centre. Though I don't think so since shoes aren't allowed.

"As they will only be stiff even if they visit. It's convenient in reverse if they don't come because of that." (Toyomune)

High Earl Mizuho reveals his true thoughts without hiding anything.

As a result of that, the emperor had never made an imperial visit to Earl Mizuho Country. Since they are half independent, the guarding is troublesome. Each time they made plans for it, it ended up vanishing in the end.

"It's the same with the prince-elector lords. It's probably only me who ever came here." (Therese)

Therese continues to talk while drinking hot Mizuho Sake.

"As for sightseeing, there are many interesting locations for the empire here." (Toyumune)

The empire is a multiethnic nation, but there are unexpectedly few cultural differences. The cultures ended up being absorbed over the last 2.000 years. The only one among them who maintained its uniqueness, Earl Mizuho Country, was regarded as a popular tourist spot by the common people and the nobles besides the prince-elector lords.

"Even though tourism is our main industry, the visitors are visibly staying away due to the current disturbances. Good grief, that duke-dono, who hails from a young, ambitious household, can't read the mood at all." (Toyomune)

High Earl Mizuho complained about the lowered income.

Even this hot-spring hotel which became our lodging place today, apparently suffers from wealthy guests not coming due to the coup d'etat uproar. Under these circumstances, sightseeing being out of question for people at such level was only natural.

"If the disturbances drag on, the empire will decay, won't it?"

"Seen on short-term it will decline no matter in what direction the situation moves. It looks like Duke Nürnberg has a sophisticated, detailed, long-term plan though."

Therese was bitter towards Duke Nürnberg, too.

It shouldn't be possible to create an empire, that gathers under one strong, centralized authoritarian rule, that easily. The more unreasonable Duke Nürnberg gets, the higher the possibility for the empire to decline.

"He's a troublesome person."

"He has too many high aspirations, I guess."

Although it's a banquet, the coup d'etat and Duke Nürnberg, who is its ringleader, end up becoming a popular topic in the conversations.

However, before long the matters to talk about lessen and the banquet finishes slowly.

* * *

"Tomorrow will be an early start. Shall we enter the bath earlier than usual and go sleep afterwards?" (Wendelin)

It's the first time since my previous life for me to get into a hot spring and moreover even an open air bath.

I did have baths by digging up rocks, filling them with water and heating it in the Savage Lands during my childhood, but strictly spoken, those weren't open air baths. I decide to exclude those since they were mere outdoor baths.

"Eru, let's go take a bath." (Wendelin)

"Y-Yea..." (Erwin)

I try to head quickly to the open air bath after being able to have my fill of dinner, but the gaze of Eru, whom I invited, was absent-minded.

Once I look ahead to the place he's staring at, I see a single woman standing there.

"Eru, she is?" (Wendelin)

"Yea." (Erwin)

With him only saying not anything that much, there's no need to tell me any further.

In other words Eru fell in love at first sight with a woman he met at a new place once again.

'That guy shouldn't fall in love with women at any place he goes to.' (Burkhart)

'It's probably because he's young.' (Armstrong)

Burkhart-san and Doushi whispered among each other, but without a doubt they are thinking that he will be rejected once again.

Certainly, if you look at her properly, she's quite the beautiful girl.

Her height is around 160 cm. She is standing in a corner of the room with a proper posture while wearing a haori and light blue long underpants. Her black hair, which is hanging down to her waist, is bound into a ponytail. She doesn't seem to be that different in age compared to us.

A Japanese-styled beautiful girl with the air of a swordsman. Seeing her face, I was reminded of Karla. It's not like they are that similar, but her atmosphere resembled that of Karla well.

"Her?"

"Is she a guard?"

"They have many women in their ranks as well. She is connected to High Earl Mizuho. Look, she has three katanas, I think." (Therese)

Her possessing a [Magic Katana] means that she belongs to the Battou Unit. Her skill should be quite high. Yes, she was a beautiful swordgirl-sama.

"Basically the [Battou Unit] is an all-male unit. I have heard that there are only three women among them. Among those three, she is apparently overwhelmingly powerful" (Therese)

According to Therese's explanation, she will accompany us from tomorrow onwards for the sake of guarding 『Duchess Philip-sama's esteemed party』. Well, I guess it's about us.

"That girl is called Haruka Fujibayashi and seems to be 16 years old. Once she reaches my age, she will become quite the beauty." (Therese)

Since she's a beautiful Japanese-styled swordgirl whose atmosphere resembles Karla, it might be inevitable for Eru to fall in love with her.

"Rather than thou, Wendelin, Erwin fell in love?" (Therese)

"Possibly." (Wendelin)

"It's not a bad combination. Both of them use the sword. Haruka Fujibayashi's home seems to be a lower retainer household. She was selected for her sword skills which are unparalleled." (Therese)

The instant he heard Therese-sama's words, Eru's entire body was filled with fighting spirit.

There shouldn't be any hindrance in her case for her to become his wife. Understanding that much, a fire of determination dwells once again in Eru's eyes.

"Nice to meet you. I'm called Erwin von Armin and I serve as bodyguard of Earl Baumeister." (Erwin)

The minute he understood that it's not all hopeless, Eru rushed over at lightning speed to Haruka's position and introduced himself.

Even though he should act as my guard, I don't even enter his eyes anymore.

"Let's have a preparatory meeting for a bit as fellow guards who will cooperate together." (Erwin)

"Preparatory meeting, he says, eh..." (Luise)

Of course he does it properly, but there are also parts that are seen as happy-go-lucky by the female camp. Going by what Luise said, she doesn't see it as anything but picking up girls in the disguise of a preparatory meeting as objective.

"I'm called Haruka Fujibayashi, Armin-sama." (Haruka)

"As fellow escorts who will guard Duchess Philip-sama together, please don't add -sama to my name. Also, those close to me call me Eru." (Erwin)

"Eru-san, it is?" (Haruka)

"Yes! I look forward to working with you, Haruka-san. Although it's quite abrupt, but let's make arrangements regarding the guarding. The guarding inside this inn is perfect, but it will be necessary to strengthen our vigilance once we leave Earl Mizuho Country." (Erwin)

"Yes." (Haruka)

The beautiful swordgirl Haruka seems to basically have a serious character. She doesn't mind at all when Eru starts to talk about the job and also not being called by her name all of a sudden.

Once being told that it's a meeting under the pretext of work, she began to honestly arrange things together with Eru.

"Such serious Eru, that's the first time I see that." (Ina)

"Me too." (Wendelin)

I agree with Ina's comment.

Noticing that the girl called Haruka is seriously trying to do her best after being chosen for such an important mission, he probably schemes to have her fall in love by him following up with her endeavour.

I believe he has a splendid observation and strategy, but until now that has never led to the realization of love.

"By the way, are you the eldest daughter of the Fujibayashi household, Haruka-san?" (Erwin)

"No. I have an elder sister who's married already, and I also have an an elder brother who's going to inherit the household." (Haruka)

"Is that so?" (Erwin)

At once Eru's face becomes all smiles. He's probably thinking that he can marry her without any kind of problems.

Well, I do understand his feelings. Even from my viewpoint, she is a beautiful girl you don't meet that often.

'However, a beautiful swordgirl in this place, huh...?' (Wendelin)

Moreover she has a great style for no special reason.

Her stance is good since she's accustomed to the sword. The Mizuho clothes, she's wearing, are accentuating her breasts quite a bit. She might have slightly smaller breasts than Katharina, I think?

"Do you have any hobbies, Haruka-san?" (Erwin)

"Eh? Is that related to guarding in some way?" (Haruka)

"It has no direct relation. But, it's not like you can stay tense forever just because you are on guard duty. It's important to communicate with the people with whom you are guarding during the breaks." (Erwin)

"I see. Is that how it is? I cook during my holidays..." (Haruka)

"So you are not only a swordsman, but also know of the manners as woman, Haruka-san." (Erwin)

"I'm not that skilfull, but..." (Haruka)

Haruka reveals an expression showing that she's not as dissatisfied being praised by Eru. Maybe she doesn't have much immunity against men.

"His experience in making passes at women has increased." (Katharina)

Katharina, who recognizes his skill in swordsmanship albeit thinking that he's a playboy, has an amazed expression.

However, his remark regarding guarding duty isn't wrong either. Besides, until now Eru accomplished his guard duty without there being any kind of attack against me.

"Vel. Let's go take a bath." (Luise)

"Vel-sama. Bath." (Wilma)

"Yeah, right." (Wendelin)

I think it's the best to leave the matters of Eru and Haruka to the people concerned.

Given that I was led by Luise's and Wilma's hands, we move to the open air bath right away.

"There's a man's bath, woman's bath and mixed bath."

"Man's..." (Wendelin)

"——To the mixed bath!" (Elise)

"Mixed bath!" (Luise)

"Mixed bath, it is!" (Ina)

"Mixed bath." (Wilma)

"It's the mixed bath." (Katharina)

Elise and the others overrule me, who tried to say man's bath, by saying mixed bath.

I didn't have a speck of interest in Doushi's and Burkhart-san's naked bodies, but I thought it would be more comfortable to enter alongside fellow men.

"If it's your esteemed companions, they went into the direction of the man's bath just now." (Employee)

According to the middle-aged, female employee, both of them apparently hurried into the man's bath.

"Isn't mixed bathing fine? I will also..." (Therese)

"——Therese-sama, from now on it's the period of married couples. Please restrain yourself." (Elise)

Therese, who hears about the mixed bathing, tries to wedge herself in there too, but Elise gave her a warning without leaving a single opening.

Without doubt Doushi and Burkhart-san foresaw this development and escaped ahead of time.

"It's not like it has been reserved by the Baumeister household. There won't be any problem with me entering, right?" (Therese)

"That is..." (Elise)

"There is, isn't there? The empire's Duchess Philip and the kingdom's Earl Baumeister entering the same bath while naked will turn into a major incident if leaked to the surroundings, won't it?" (Katharina)

What Katharina said was a sound argument.

It's not only bad for our reputation, but also it's possible that Duke Nürnberg will announce that Therese and I are trying to steal the empire after forming an alliance, if things go badly.

'Mixed bathing with Therese has a charm, but...' (Wendelin)

If we are careless, it's not unlikely that even the kingdom's side will harbour worries.

I didn't believe that this had an appeal for Therese to the degree of closing her eyes to the possible issues. Though I considered it to be quite regrettable in my mind.

"Since it's before an important greater cause, please refrain from causing any problems, Therese-sama." (Katharina)

Being flatly told so by Katharina, Therese gave up and headed to the woman's bath while we went into the mixed bath.

* * *

"Therese-sama is persistent." (Luise)

Luise sighs while soaking in the open air bath.

The open air bath had a luxurious, spacious structure as one would expect of a high-class inn. Even when soaking in the open air bath, which was surrounded by rocks, with six people, it still had plenty of space left.

The surroundings were concealed by a bamboo fence, but the full moon above and the visible ridgeline of the mountains made for a beautiful scenery.

Sounds of bamboo regularly hitting on the shishiodoshi* echo from the adjoining Japanese-styled garden.

(T/N: Water-filled bamboo tube clacking on stone when emptied, common sight in old Japanese gardens)

"Maybe Therese-sama is targeting the mana increase——" (Luise)

"——Luise, sshhh!" (Ina)

Ina hinders Luise to speak any further in panic.

The mana of five people, who should have already hit the limit of their mana capacity, increasing and moreover the possibility of their night activities with me being the reason for that was a secret.

As Amelie-sister-in-law-san, with whom I was doing the same, didn't have the basic aptitude of a magician to begin with, her mana hasn't increased at all. However, the mana of Ina and Wilma, who are unconsciously using mana while swinging their spear and battle axe even if it's below elementary magic, is increasing.

According to Burkhart-san's prediction, the number of magicians, which has been known to be 1 in 1000 until now, has the potential to become 1 in several hundreds now.

"However, that's only in case they have sex with you, Earl-sama." (Burkhart)

The mana capacity of Elise, Luise and Katharina, who should have hit the limit through training and vessel unification, has increased as well.

If society learns of that, my location will be swarmed by large quantities of women.

"Hehehe! It's a rendezvous with a gentleman after 50 years, but since my mana will increase with this, it's a reward!"

"I'm actually looking forward to it!"

Old magicians who have passed the age of 80 will advance on me to embrace me.

I can't consider this as anything but a nightmare. Even so, it's still fine as long as it's just women.

"Ussu! I'd like you to raise my mana ~ssu!"

I will definitely go mad on the day when a man presents his ass to me.

It's considered to be a taboo by the church, but in front of the charm of increasing the number of magicians and raising the mana capacity beyond its limit, it's quite possible for the church to tolerate it by treating it as ceremony.

I think it was a nice timing for Ina to stop what Luise was trying to say.

"Luise, you have a loose tongue. The walls have eyes and ears here."

"It's certainly a verbal slip."

For Earl Mizuho Country it will probably be troublesome if something happens to us.

Once I probe with [Detection], I can see the response of people who are serving as guards in the surroundings.

'Are they possibly called 『ninja』 or such?' (Wendelin)

"Peepers?" (Wilma)

Even if their objective is to guard us, did they maybe see our naked bodies? Having sensed that, Wilma put herself on guard.

"It's alright, Wilma. All of them are women." (Luise)

"You did well to grasp that..." (Wendelin)

Rather than the thoughts of "Then they are kunoichis?*", I feel bothered by Luise's super-detection.

(T/N: Female Ninjas)

"If it's men and women, there are subtle differences in their mana." (Luise)

"I know that, but..." (Wendelin)

I have been taught that by my childhood master, but I was also taught that people, who can actually distinguish that, don't exist. Master and Burkhart-san said that it's impossible.

Both are capable of specifying an individual once they remembered their mana signature, but differentiating whether it's a man or a woman by just their mana after seeing it for the first time is a special skill that only Luise owns.

"Luise, amazing. Next time, teach me." (Wilma)

Wilma was honestly impressed.

"Recently you became more and more amazing, you know?" (Wendelin)

Due to her ability appearing to be already on equal term with Doushi, I couldn't hide my surprise.

"However, recently my mana has gone up after all. At the same time I feel like my ability to sense mana has gone up as well." (Luise)

"If you feel like it, you can obtain your own peerage." (Katharina)

Katharina also gave her stamp of approval to Luise's actual ability.

"No need. The management of a territory seems to be annoying. I will popularize the magic combat style in society together with my children as Vel's wife." (Luise)

"The children between Wendelin-san and Luise-san, huh...? Combining it with the point that our mana increased..." (Katharina)

Maybe children like Doushi will be born. Katharina seems to be expecting something like that.

"Let's return to the topic? It's a wonderful open air bath." (Elise)

Certainly, it will get troublesome if others listen in on us. Just as Elise says, we returned the topic to the open air bath.

"I want to come here regularly."

"Next time I want to stay here comfortably for several nights."

It was Elise who started to talk like that while smiling, but as expected of her.

Her breasts are floating in the bath. I noticed it at the times when we entered the bath together after our marriage, but since breasts consist of fat, they float.

'It's a magnificent view.' (Wendelin)

Katharina's breasts are floating, too. Once I look at Ina's and Wilma's breasts through the hot water, they have a different romance about them compared to looking directly at them.

Certainly this is a reward from god for me who survived by even going as far as killing against my will. Although it wasn't without feelings of guilt, I won't be able to survive in this world if I mind it too much.

I decided to go with this take on the matter.

"Buu~~~! My chest has this much individuality..." (Luise)

Luise, who has the lowest chest size, jumps on my back. They grew since the time she was 12 years old all the same, but Luise's breasts were an A-cup after all.

"That's true. They have individuality. I like them, your breasts, Luise." (Wendelin)

While feeling the small breasts of Luise on my back, I try saying something similar to a perverted old man. If I consider my mental age, it's not that strange though.

"That's right. My breasts have rarity value. Besides, I won't talk about anyone in specific, but I'm not a woman who missed her chance to marry due to age." (Luise)

"Oi oi..." (Wendelin)

If you ask about whom she's talking, it's of course about that lady who is still single at an age of 20.

"——Hoo, who is a woman who missed her chance to marry due to age? Please do tell me by all means." (Therese)

However, Luise is quite mean as well. She is deliberately sarcastic towards Therese who is meddling with me.

Considering Luise's ability, it's unthinkable for her to not having noticed Therese approaching close-by.

'Oi, oi, Luise.' (Wendelin)

'I perceived the presence of a woman, but I didn't think that it was Therese-sama.' (Luise)

'Liar.' (Wendelin)

Although she is giving such an excuse, there's no doubt that it's a lie. She should have already remembered Therese's mana by now.

"Umm... Therese-sama?" (Elise)

"Don't worry. I'm wearing bath clothes for the sake of the innocent Wendelin." (Therese)

As expected of a spa for tourists, they have even prepared bath clothes for tourists although it's a custom to enter the bath naked with others. Therese wore white bath clothes.

"We will become fellow comrades in war who will fight while risking our lives. Such socializing is necessary as well, right?" (Therese)

She enters the bath while saying so, but on top of her body line being easily projected through the originally thin bath clothes, her nipples were visible due to the clothes clinging to her body in the bath.

I avert my gaze from Therese in a hurry.

"Therese-sama, I believe that to be improper for a woman in a high social standing though." (Elise)

"Aren't thou naked, Elise-dono?" (Therese)

"Is there anything wrong about a married couple entering a bath together?" (Elise)

"Certainly not. Thee might be able to become pregnant soon." (Therese)

Therese dodged Elise's attack evasively just like before. As expected of a prince-elector who's a candidate for becoming empress.

"It hit me suddenly, but if I marry Wendelin, this unproductive quarrel with you, Elise-dono, will vanish. If that happens, it will become peaceful." (Therese)

"Well, my position and stomach will always be exposed to war times." (Wendelin)

Doubtlessly I will end up being regarded as a person who requires special attention by both countries. Only that, please excuse me from bearing that cross.

She is a charming woman, but she isn't necessary anymore as Amelie-sister-in-law-san covers the mature aspect.

"Therese-sama, it will be wrong if you don't offer a bait to the nobles you are going to gather from now on." (Ina)

It's just as Ina says.

Seeing that we are incapable of confirming the survival of the new emperor Urquhart the 17th and the other prince-electors, Therese, who is trying to defeat the rebel Duke Nürnberg, is the most important person as next emperor candidate.

"I will gather comrades by telling them that they might become my husband. Since it's an old trick, I will use it of course. But, there will be never any guarantee that someone will become my husband." (Therese)

"Then, do you intend to stay single, Therese-sama?" (Elise)

"Handling an empress' husband is troublesome." (Therese)

Even in the empire the male domination over women is strong. If she is careless, he might become nothing but a hindrance to a rule by an empress.

Up until now there were candidates for becoming empress, but none of them was actually enthroned. Since they always tripped over this problem, they couldn't win in the emperor elections, it seems.

"The treatment of the maternal relatives is annoying as well. That's why." (Therese)

Therese, who soaked in the hot water next to me, clings to my arm. The sensation of her voluptuous breasts, which I can feel at my upper arm, is wonderful.

No, stop, I think this is getting bad.

"It's fine with them just occasionally offering their sperm to me. However since there's no romance with only that, won't thou let me enjoy a time as married couple as well?" (Therese)

"No, that is..." (Wendelin)

"Please stop it already! Aren't you just troubling Wendelin-sama!?" (Elise)

The angry Elise pulls me to her side and Therese gets separated from me. Now I can feel the sensation of Elise's breasts pressing against my upper arm.

"Whether he is troubled about it is something that Wendelin himself decides. Isn't that so, Wendelin?" (Therese)

It's fine to get angry here and abandon our job as mercenaries, but once Duke Nürnberg's dangerous ideology becomes gradually official, it will become impossible to get a victory against him.

The empire, which would have destroyed Philip Dukedom and Earl Mizuho Country, would gather under Duke Nürnberg's reign and it was very likely that it would become hostile towards the kingdom. In the worst case it's also possible that he will deliberately keep the empire in a quasi-war-state in order to unify it.

Facing towards the kingdom by making it a common enemy for the dissatisfaction of the nobles and populace whose impoverishment increased in the civil war was an act that was carried out occasionally in any world and country. Then, once he continuously stations the increased military forces at the national border, it will likely influence the economy of the entire kingdom and the development of the Savage Lands.

As a noble of the kingdom, it will be wrong if I can't get Therese to win here. Not only is she anticipating that, but she's also starting to strengthen her support base in case of her becoming empress. In order to prevent the meddling by maternal relatives, she's trying to make a child with me who is a foreign noble she just met.

No matter whether that child becomes the next emperor or not, it will give birth to a faction called the parent's kingdom faction in the empire. She might be trying to protect her own descendants by using that.

"If thou desire, I don't mind taking off these bath clothes either, Wendelin." (Therese)

"No, it's fine!"

Elise and the others restrain Therese's temptations.

Thanks to that I didn't enjoy the open air bath overly much. Finally being able to just get a long, leisurely bath, it ended with me suffering from dizziness.

* * *

"Please save a person struggling through a hard time..." (Wendelin)

When I'm just out of the bath, I complain to Burkhart-san and Doushi for not having saved me.

"I have been certain that you won't yield to her temptation, Earl-sama." (Burkhart)

There might be that as well, but it's likely that Burkhart-san, who met the cute Therese 10 years ago, was unable to strongly tell her off. Even considering it by age, he might be thinking of her like a daughter.

"For me it doesn't change the result much no matter how it turns out." (Armstrong)

If my blood entered the Duke Philip household, it would be the first successful invasion of blood by the kingdom since the empire's foundation. It might be exaggerated, but nobles seem to be creatures who consider things in such manner.

"The official nobles of the central government are refusing with 『There's no precedent』 as long as there's no precedent, but once you create a precedent, things will advance with 『There's a precedent』." (Armstrong)

Therese should advance the political policies of increasing the coming and going of people and trade between both countries as it was happening before the coup d'etat.

Since the empire will be exhausted by the civil war even if she wins against Duke Nürnberg, an enlargement of trade should compensate for that. If you exclude a part of the populace and nobles, the political thoughts aren't that fixated about right and left.

If the trade improves the circulation of money even a bit, it might be possible to secure those radicals who woke up from their dream of establishing a new governmental authority in the future. But then again, the appearance of people who incline towards nationalism and steal employment and concession due to that is something that is born in the world of politics.

"From the standpoint of nobles, an increase of family choices for their daughters to marry into and for their sons to be adopted into isn't bad!" (Armstrong)

If the number of children with mixed blood from nobles of both countries increases, it might also serve as a deterrence towards war. Humans are creatures that will find a reason to invade, but there's no other choice but to leave such matters to the future nobles.

"Even so, please don't abandon someone in need of help." (Wendelin)

"But, you know, it's unexpectedly simple to evade her temptations." (Burkhart)

"Let me hear the method by all means." (Wendelin)

I lend my ears to Burkhart-san's advice. Once I did so, he mentioned something unforeseen.

* * *

"I see. Such move existed, eh?"

"Such move means?"

Once I finish talking with the two old men, I return to my room.

The room, which has been assigned to us, is a spacious Japanese-styled room where six people can sleep with leeway. It seems to be the top class room of this inn. It is a room for important merchants and nobles to enjoy their stay while bringing several wives and lovers along.

For some reason I'm considered as guest of honour by High Earl Mizuho.

"It's a move to evade Therese's temptation." (Wendelin)

"That's great then." (Ina)

Ina was immediately attracted to it. She was probably also fed up with Therese as "Woman who doesn't give up".

"So, what kind of method is it?"

"It's this kind of move." (Wendelin)

I swiftly pull the obi of Ina's yukata.

She doesn't rotate around like in historic plays and she didn't say 『A~re~?』 either, but the entire front part of the yukata opens and most of her front area ends up being exposed. Her chest, which seems to be visible though it isn't, can be considered to have a very splendid angle.

"Wait a moment, Vel!" (Ina)

"The answer is that I have to enjoy the night time with everyone!" (Wendelin)

Therese was a woman who brimmed with sensual sex appeal at an age of 20, but she had a flaw.

Since she's an inexperienced virgin, she shouldn't have the experience and courage to boldly join in on such event. Therefore, to prevent her sneaking in at night, I will play with my wives everyday. This move was the idea of Burkhart-san who seems to be well-versed in such matters.

"This room is convenient for such matters." (Wendelin)

Since there are futons on the tatamis and not beds, the preparations are finished right away once the futons are connected with each other. Furthermore, as the futons are apparently high-class items, they are soft and light to a dreadful degree.

"I think that's a great idea." (Luise)

"Isn't it? Ei!" (Wendelin)

"Aree~~~!?" (Luise)

Once I grab the obi of the yukata of Luise, who joined my side in approval right away, she, who is easily influenced into joining some mood, spins around while raising the standard voice.

"What's that?" (Wilma)

"There are such situations in the Mizuho ceremonies as well." (Luise)

"I see. Vel-sama." (Wilma)

"Ei!" (Wendelin)

"Aree~~~!" (Wilma)

She had a slightly low voice, but once I unwrap the obi of Wilma's yukata, she releases the standard yell as well. However, I wonder where Luise obtained that information?

"Nyahaha. That's fun. Well, next is Katharina then." (Luise)

"Me? Since I'm shy..." (Katharina)

"No use. After all it has the noble objective of evading Therese-sama by showing it to her." (Luise)

"You can't escape." (Wilma)

Katharina is caught by the excited Luise and Wilma, and gets dragged in front of me.

"Let's have you join in properly! Ei! (Wendelin)

"Aree~~~!?" (Katharina)

Even while saying that she's embarrassed, Katharina probably has things bearing in mind about Therese's lewd temptation. Having the obi obediently unwrapped, she spins around while raising the agreed yell.

"By the way, what's this about?" (Katharina)

"Umm, a bad-governor-attacks-young-girl play." (Wendelin)

I explain that it's a scene of an evil governor attacking a young geisha who is pouring alcohol at a banquet, which I have seen in a historical play in my childhood together with my grandfather in the countryside.

"Having the obi unwrapped, you spin around often in such arranged manner?" (Katharina)

"This situation is normal to be done with Mizuho clothes after all. Also, it's an arrangement to rotate often once the obi has been undone?" (Wendelin)

"The inner workings are deep, aren't they?" (Katharina)

Katharina admired the depth of the Mizuho culture at a strange part.

"However, why did you know about it, Luise?" (Wendelin)

"Because I bought this." (Luise)

There was a shop in the city where you can buy books and such, and among its merchandise was a painting that resembled colour prints of everyday life in the Edo period. Moreover she was apparently searching for paintings prohibited to minors which resemble pornographic woodblock prints in secret.

On a page of an obscene picture book she opened, a pronographic depiction of the governor play was drawn together with a written story.

"I heard about it before from Margrave Breithilde-sama. Men are creatures who lose interest." (Luise)

Therefore it's essential to put the man in different situations so he doesn't get tired of the woman, she was taught.

"If you recall what that person has said..."

"That's right. You are with someone other than us... oops, that was a verbal slip. You work very hard on your duty as Earl, but we have to do our best until children are born." (Elise)

Elise is slightly scary.

My relationship with Amelie-sister-in-law-san took the shape of being tolerated, but I guess it's not that amusing from Elise's point of view after all.

I have been given a warning.

"The last is me." (Elise)

Once I try to pull her obi after being urged on by Elise, Ina, who fixed the knot of her obi, appears next to her.

"Vel, since the last time was a bit lacking, once more..." (Ina)

Requesting that while having her face dyed red, Ina was quite adorable.

"Roger. Ei!" (Wendelin)

"Ah~~~re~~~!?" (Ina)

Without a doubt, if seen by a third party, they might wonder, "What's so interesting about this?", but it's a win if they can get aroused while I'm enjoying it. There's also the just cause of preventing Therese's interruption.

That night I spent a noble-like night with five people.

* * *

"Uwaah, that's amazing." (Wendelin)

"I pity the hostess-san a bit." (Ina)

The next morning, Ina and me, who woke up first, were lost for words due to the disastrous scene on top of the futons.

The nightmarish incident, which made Dominique drop the duster in despair in the mansion, ended up being repeated as if one may do anything once a certain line is crossed. My goodness, [Vitality Recovery] is quite the sinful spell.

"Vel, I can't move..." (Luise)

"Vel-sama, Elise-sama doesn't open her eyes." (Wilma)

Being urged on by Luise and Wilma, I cast healing magic on everyone including myself as well.

"Upon reflection, my healing magic, I don't use it except at such times." (Wendelin)

Usually I leave it to Elise. Since we rarely get injured to begin with, there weren't many opportunities to use it.

"Katharina, wake up." (Wendelin)

"Yesh... This disastrous scene is..." (Katharina)

If you say that it's the usual, it ends there, but Katharina is speechless due to the tragic, disastrous scene caused by us thoughtlessly enjoying the fresh taste of a changed environment.

"I can't overlook this as a lady." (Katharina)

It was obvious that the inn's hostess, who will come to air the futons, will fall into the same condition as Dominique. From Katharina's point of view, she considers that as embarrassing for a noble.

"Wendelin-san." (Katharina)

"I at least remember 『Clean』." (Wendelin)

"I'm weak at that kind of magic." (Katharina)

Then don't throw out your chest and say it proudly while being naked, I thought.

According to Burkhart-san, Katharina was bad at magic related to livelihood.

"Well it's fine, I guess. Elise, get up." (Wendelin)

"Yes..." (Elise)

I wake up Elise while casting healing magic. After using the [Clean] spell on all futons, we head to the morning bath.

Given that the hostess in charge of our room was there once we left it, I gave her a koban as tip and asked her to clean the room. Since I tidied it up mostly, she shouldn't fall in the same state as Dominique.

"Earl-sama, it seems you were vigorous." (Burkhart)

Once I enter the room, which was used for the banquet last night, to take breakfast after finishing my bath, Burkhart-san was already eating breakfast.

The Mizuho-styled breakfast wasn't that different from the one of a Japanese hot spring inn after all. Rice, miso soup, grilled fish, boiled greens in bonito-flavoured soy sauce, pickled vegetables, natto, baked seaweed and such. All of it was a lineup of dearly missed dishes.

'Earl Mizuho Country. You are the best!' (Wendelin)

In a hurry I begin to eat the rice served in a rice bowl. It was popular to eat rice in the south as well, but the taste of the rice here was exceptionally great.

The Akitsu Basin, where Earl Mizuho Country is located, is hot in summer and cold in winter, it has a large difference in temperature over the seasons.

In other words, there are proper seasons. That improves the taste of the rice. Since the water here is clean and delicious as well, this place provides conditions where you can harvest good rice.

"I'd like it to be put in a bigger rice bowl!" (Armstrong)

Doushi, who entered at almost the same time as us, ate by wolfing down the served mountain of rice in his bowl. As usual that man has an amazing appetite.

"As result of you being active, Therese-sama didn't trespass, right?" (Burkhart)

It was just as Burkhart-san said.

To join in on that requires quite the resolve and experience. Therese had the former but lacked the latter. Did she consider it to be regretful?

She entered the room, but begins to eat her rice quietly after sitting down in the seat next to me.

"Didn't you get it done properly despite being younger?"

"Earl Baumeister, it's the start of your harem legend."

"Saying it comparatively, the numbers are lacking." (Therese)

The inexperienced Therese has sex appeal, but talks like a sore loser. Even so, it was a fact that a noble having five wives can't be treated as owning a harem, just as Therese says. At least I hear it won't be called a harem unless I gather numbers in the two digits.

"It's plenty if there's five people."

"If thou have property at the level of Wendelin, even five wives are already necessary at the very least." (Therese)

"Then I will search for more in the kingdom." (Wendelin)

"Thou, thou are unexpectedly mean." (Therese)

Having finished the preparations for departure after breakfast, we will once again head towards Philip Dukedom in the carriage.

"Duchess Philip-dono, Earl Baumeister-dono, I will prepare the soldiers and wait for you." (Toyomune)

After receiving High Earl Mizuho's farewell, the carriage travels towards the north.

Once we leave the mountain road, which is located in the northern part of the Akitsu Basin, we will enter the Philip Dukedom right away. Even considering it geographically, there shouldn't be any pursuit party from Duke Nürnberg anymore.

"Even here is no good, huh...?"

I try to float in the air a bit with the [Flight] spell, but I end up stopping it right away as a pain stabs my head.

If the effect reaches even until this northern area, it is fine to assume that the influence of the jamming device covers almost the entire empire.

Even if they analyze and mass produce the device while it's operating in Bardiche unskillfully, our stance won't be affected. There was no other choice but to destroy this at all costs.

"However, how did Duke Nürnberg obtain that device?" (Therese)

"From a undiscovered historic ruin, I suppose." (Wendelin)

Since even we were able to discover them, it's unlikely that the empire's side can't do so as well. The Ancient Magic Civilization prospered on the entire continent.

"It will turn into a war where many people will die." (Therese)

"Yes." (Wendelin)

It's something unpleasant, but it was possible for the war to spread to the kingdom if we don't defeat Duke Nürnberg here. That's why I decided to take part in a war where I will kill people.

"The social position of Duchess Philip is heavy..." (Therese)

I didn't say anything to Therese who entrusted her body to my shoulder while saying so. It looked like Ebbo, who is at the front, wanted to say something, but he's probably thinking that he will incur Therese's displeasure if he disturbs her.

He quietly glared at me. He is Therese's most faithful dog-kun after all.

"If there's a gentleman who is reliable, it will lessen my burden as well." (Therese)

Therese, who leaned on my shoulder while showing a sad expression, was sexy, but after all I'm brought back into reality right away. I ended up being pulled over by Elise who sat next to me on the other side.

"Elise-dono, isn't that heartless? Suffering from the heavy responsibilities here, it's the important part for me to attract Wendelin's affection by showing him my grief." (Therese)

"Such conspicious parts can't be trusted. Even before that, Wendelin-sama belongs to us." (Elise)

At the same time of Elise saying that, Luise wedges in between me and Therese and Wilma sits down on my knees. Moreover, Ina and Katharina, who sat behind me, tightly guarded my back.

"Therese-sama, please freely choose among the nobles from your own country." (Elise)

"I don't praise thieving cats."

"Balance is missing age-wise."

"I don't admire someone who makes a move on the possessions of others." (Katharina)

After Therese appeared, the guard of Elise and the others became excessively hard.

Since there's also the secret that it's possible to increase one's mana by having sex with me, which results the elementary attainments as magician even if it's microscopic, they probably didn't want unnecessary women to approach me.

"Thy guard is solid. In that case, I will pretend that there's something strategic to talk about..." (Therese)

"I will go together with you as his attendant. As the campaign's priest." (Elise)

Being strictly warned by Elise, Therese reveals a regretful expression. Ebbo, who saw this situation, had a relieved expression though.

'However, he is looking at people with such eyes...' (Wendelin)

Burkhart-san was on guard at the coachman's seat. Doushi was sleeping and snoring apparently because of the large amount of food and the morning bath while keeping his eyes open once again. Eru looked happy while talking to Haruka about various matters.

'I won't complain, but it's somewhat absurd...' (Wendelin)

Therese's retainers continued to check the surroundings through the carriage's windows in rotation. There was no problem at all since they had regulated breaks in between.

"There a Demon Forest in the south? I'd like to go there once." (Haruka)

"I will invite you once this war ends. There are plenty of southern fruits over there." (Erwin)

"I love sweets." (Haruka)

"You can even obtain the ingredients for chocolate." (Erwin)

"I have only heard a rumour about the sweet called 『chocolate』 from the old man at the grocery store." (Haruka)

"I will give you a bit." (Erwin)

"Really!? Thank you very much." (Haruka)

'Huh? isn't it going very well for Eru?' (Wendelin)

While the confrontation between Therese and Elise continued inside, the carriage safely reached Philip Dukedom within a half day.

Chapter 84: At last, the departure to the front

The carriage which left Earl Mizuho Country, safely entered Philip Dukedom.

It's cold in the Philip Dukedom, which is the northernmost territory of the continent and it's currently midwinter. Snow piled up on the large fields as well, but I guess it's a blessing that it's not to the degree of obstructing the carriage's advance.

The carriage proceeded through the outskirts of the central city Fierin, where the feudal lord's mansion is located, without trouble.

"Those fields are vast."

"Even for being in the north, Philip Dukedom is a big agriculture area." (Therese)

Their focus lies on the cultivation of produce such as wheat, barley, rye and potatoes. But it seems they are also refining sugar from sugar beets. They probably harvest two crops a year. In spite of it being midwinter, crops have been planted on the fields.

"But then again the efficiency goes down in comparison to the southern sugar cane. Therefore we are cultivating sugar beets on large-scaled fields." (Therese)

As it doesn't seem that selective breeding as it's done on earth has made any progress, it appears to be hopeless unless they cultivate a large amount of them as the sugar beets have a low sugar content.

Even so, since it's easier than importing due to the distance of transportation, sugar manufacture from sugar beets has apparently become a key industry of the Philip Dukedom.

"Also, fishing and stock farming are popular as well." (Therese)

"You are doing stock farming?" (Wendelin)

"There's a large amount of soil, but it's cold." (Therese)

Thanks to the diligent endeavours by the Lan clan members of old, there aren't many monster domains in Philip Dukedom. That's why you can call it a possible feat.

The meat of cattle, pigs and birds obtained through stock farming was an expensive good in other territories. Since there's a lot of land, agriculture is prospering. But as the area at the northern end of the continent will become extremely cold once the season turns to winter, they have large pigs called 『Hairy Pigs』 grazing there.

"Though they are wild boars, they are livestock slightly similar to pigs. We raise them by having them eat the squeezed leftovers of the sugar beets." (Therese)

They are large and strong against cold. Their fertility is also full of vim and vigour. They are enthusiastically pasturing since they eat anything.

"Even the commoners are frequently eating the meat of [Hairy Pigs] in Philip Dukedom", Therese explained.

By enhancing the processing to bacon and sausages and improving the ways of preservation, this has also turned into an exported merchandise.

"We are also actively breeding warhorses and horses for pulling wagons." (Therese)

"The military affairs and the economy are powerful then?" (Wendelin)

"Tentatively I have been told that I'm the most powerful among the prince-elector lords." (Therese)

In addition there are also many mines and the manufacturing industry is growing, too. Certainly, the city of Fierin that gradually became visible was a metropolis that won't lose to Breitburg.

"If it's about economic strength and military forces, we are superior to Nürnberg Dukedom. That doesn't mean that there's overly much difference though." (Therese)

Though the mixed parentage of the ruling class, which serves as subjects of the empire, is improving, the independent spirit of the Lan people, who were the rulers of the north, is strong.

Based on the fact that having a dark brown skin is required for the family head of the Duke Philip household who should be the rulers, one can see that the empire's north is quite the unique region.

"There's Earl Mizuho Country as well."

The carriage enters the city of Fierin and heads towards the feudal lord's mansion as Therese is explaining while smiling.

Once we arrive at the mansion which is similar to a fortress, two young men with one around the latter half of his twenties and the other in the middle of his twenties appear from inside the mansion.

"You were safe, Milady?"

"What a relief."

"It's my bane of having bad luck. Rather than that, there are visitors from afar here." (Therese)

By the management of the two young men, we settle down after being allocated rooms, but they receive secret instructions by Therese who was with them.

"They are mine own elder brother's children." (Therese)

"That sounds complicated."

"Yep. Just what are they thinking about in their hearts?" (Therese)

Even though it doesn't look like they have insufficient ability going by the impression I got, they won't be able to succeed the rank of duke due to the reason of having a white skin colour. They probably have various emotions they are bottling up in their chests.

"What I was pondering about was the possibility of you, Therese-sama, being killed or taken prisoner due to a revolt by your elder brothers right after we arrived here." (Armstrong)

While drinking the aquavit diluted with hot water he received in small gulps in order to warm up his body, Doushi mentions some dangerous things. Even if they considered doing such thing, they would likely be stopped by Doushi right away though.

"Even if they plan that, it will end with everyone getting killed by Doushi and Earl-sama, right?" (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san's thoughts were similar to mine.

Doing something like opposing Doushi with a small number of people while not being magicians is nothing more but the height of recklessness.

"No, Burkhart. They are not capable of doing that in the first place." (Therese)

"Because their skin is white?" (Burkhart)

"That's how it is." (Therese)

For the Lan people who ended up being ruled by the empire, a family head with a dark brown skin is an absolute condition they won't yield on. Therefore, even if Therese's elder brothers staged a coup d'état, no one would follow them.

"My elder brother's children have dark brown skins. But, even if they set up my nephews as family heads, it would be obvious to everyone who's the ones pulling the strings." (Therese)

Moreover, a child as supreme commander will also lose a winnable swar.

"There shouldn't exist anyone needlessly following such a child." Therese explained.

"However, there's the possibility of Duke Nürnberg having set up a scheme, isn't there?"

"I can't prevent that, but in that regard both of us are the same, right?" (Therese)

Before coming to this room, Therese had ordered her elder brothers to announce to the lords of the north and of other regions to gather their soldiers for the sake of recovering the imperial capital that has been overthrown by Duke Nürnberg.

"Do you participate in the rebellion by supporting Duke Nürnberg or do you follow us, the Duke Philip household, in our attempt to defeat him?" she asked.

She apparently dispatched them while adding quite the radical declaration.

"Together with the information 『Earl Mizuho Country will side with us』." (Therese)

During the unification of the empire, many ethnic groups converted into retainers and adhered to its rule.

The only one among them, Earl Mizuho Country, which preserved a shape of being half-independent, was regarded with awe by the nobles and their fief's population of other ethnic groups. Moreover, it's the first time for them to dispatch an army for something other than defence. Coupled with their legendary strength, we will likely be able to obtain many allies, is what Therese seems to be thinking.

"The nobles, who have other ethnic groups under them, are probably trembling in fear due to Duke Nürnberg's movements. Most of them should look positively at joining us." (Therese)

"Are there that many ethnic groups?" (Wendelin)

There were Arab-styled and Chinese-styled building in Bardiche no matter how you look at it, but what one understands immediately by looking is that their skin was dark brown just like that of the Lan people.

The Mizuho people are obvious because of their black hair and pupils and as they wear Mizuho clothes. But, as a matter of fact there are many people where you won't know their origination unless you look properly since their outward appearance looks like that of mixed Westerns and Japanese halfs.

"The intermingling of different races has progressed for around 1000 years. That means that the majority of the ethnic groups aren't that different in their outward appearance. Even the language has advanced into being uniform since the era of the Ancient Magic Civilization." (Therese)

More or less the ethnic group which has been living in the centre of the empire since the time when the empire still named itself as kingdom, has been called Urquhart people and they have apparently transformed into being the dominant ethnic group.

Duke Nürnberg caused a coup d'ètat and is trying to advance the centralization of the empire with that ethnic group as core.

"Nevertheless, the definition of Urquhart people is ambiguous as well." (Therese)

However, with the feeling of them being people living in the centre, their treatment around here might be similar to the treatment of Chinese people in the Chugoku region of western Honshu. Biologically an Urquhart race doesn't exist.

"In short, you are saying that he hastens a centralized authoritarian rule, but first attempts to make the Lan people and the Mizuho people, that are quite obviously a hindrance to him, submit to him?"

"If he crushes them and puts them under slavery, the groups in the east and west will likely listen to what he says out of fear." (Therese)

Since the Lan people and the Mizuho people are an easily identifiable enemy, he will crush them.

Since they are strong, the other ethnic groups will easily yield once he makes them submit. That seems to be Duke Nürnberg's train of thought.

"So, what will be our schedule from now on?" (Wendelin)

"I plan to dispatch an advance force tomorrow." (Therese)

"We will carry out interceptive battles since we should be inferior in the number of military forces, but I want to prevent the enemy entering our territory and ruining it", Therese says.

"Also, in order to prevent a separation of the northern lords, it's strictly forbidden to fight in their territories. Accordingly..." (Therese)

Therese spreads a map on top of the table.

On the detailed map of the empire, a red circle was drawn in the middle between the northern territories and the area under the direct control of the central government.

"The "Great Sorbid Wasteland"...?"

It won't be seen by just following the northern highway continuing into Philip Dukedom, but just as its name 『Great Sorbid Wasteland』 suggest, it's a vast wasteland.

It's under the direct control of the empire, but it has a border with northern territories. You can't secure water unless you dig up a water well. It's dotted with mines and mineral deposits which have been abandoned. It's a place where development has been put off.

"We will build a base here. And we will stop Duke Nürnberg's advance to the north here." (Therese)

"It won't be a short, decisive battle?"

"Aye."

Therese agrees towards Doushi's question.

"Since this is a civil war, a short, decisive battle is desirable if possible, but..." (Therese)

Therese thinks that we are at more of a disadvantage than Duke Nürnberg, who is currently suppressing the centre after having completely seized the south. Since it's not like she has gathered all northern lords as of yet, she can't advance her soldiers towards the imperial capital that easily.

"The method of delivering a blow to Duke Nürnberg by defending against his attack in the Great Sorbid Wasteland will cause cracks in his foundation." (Therese)

Their loyalty is strong. They will be able to deliver a blow to the southern feudal army and the imperial forces which participated in the coup d'état. Once that happens, they will be unavoidably able to cause unrest among the lords who are obeying Duke Nürnberg.

"Him having gained control of the imperial capital is a strong point, but on the other hand it's also a weakness." (Therese)

Especially that device, which jams the activation of spells and magic tools of the communication and movement category, wasn't good.

Since it causes damage to the circulation of good and the traffic, Duke Nürnberg's side suffers damage from holding the imperial capital instead.

"He's a Duke-sama that doesn't do anything decent, I guess." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san says so, but thanks to that device, the kingdom can't take part in the civil war.

Since the device's effect should be reaching the kingdom's north as well, it's impossible for it to take advantage of the civil war and dispatch soldiers. Even if they sent soldiers across the ropeway that serves as temporary bridge over the Gigant Crevice, the imperial army on site and the nobles would likely resist against the invaders.

Even if they were able to occupy the area, it would become necessary to govern that area next. For a while they would continue to exploit the area, but they wouldn't be able to use magic airships to transport the goods. War isn't as easy-going that you can win while having a serious shortage of supplies.

"If the kingdom meddles unskillfully in the civil war, it will get exhausted in exchange."

The ones who would be happy about it are probably only some of the merchants who consider it as beneficial if they can sell goods to armies and soldiers who want to raise war accomplishments.

"An extension of the civil war will ruin the empire, but at the current situation a short, decisive battle is impossible. I don't have any intention to cause our downfall trying to do the impossible. But then again I will likely give up and defect once we lose since I've got a bad character." (Therese)

Therese's thinking isn't particularly wrong.

Something like being gallantly destroyed might be deeply impressive in records of historic tales, but in reality that's nothing more than foolishness. Even defecting to another country is to wait for the next opportunity. This might be something said by a normal, influential person.

"Since I will be likely worn out if something like that happens, I will become your concubine, Wendelin, and leave the rest to our children." (Therese)

In case the kingdom advances north, the Philip household might be restored by using her child, grandchild or later descendants. In the end that's no more than one possibility, but nobles form connections with other families for such possibilities.

"It's the same as usual with Therese-sama..."

Luise is fed up, but there's another important matter besides that story.

"So, what's our job?"

"Of course the securing of the Great Sorbid Wasteland and the construction of a permanent field camp in preparation for a protracted war. It's a suitable task for you, Wendelin, who is called Construction Works Adventurer." (Therese)

"That nickname has spread even as far as the empire?" (Wendelin)

Since the schedule was decided, it will be bad if we don't depart quickly tomorrow.

As we can't use [Flight] and [Teleportation], everything takes time.

* * *

"That's a big horse, isn't it?"

"It's a northern special breed called 『Dosanko* Horse』. It isn't overly fast, but it's power and stamina are splendid. It also endures with frugal food."

(T/N: A horse breed native to Hokkaido)

On the morning of the next day after we arrived in Philip Dukedom, we immediately headed south on the northern highway towards the Great Sorbid Wasteland.

Our military forces are the Duke Philip household's feudal army and the feudal armies of several nobles who prepared their troops ahead of time after sensing the unusual events in the imperial capital. It's a total of 5000 soldiers.

The military goods necessary to keep an army moving are completely carried in magic bags by me and the magicians who have been employed by the Duke Philip household and the other noble households.

Since more than half of the army consists of foot soldiers after all, the scheme we have come up with to hasten the travelling speed after mobilizing a large quantity of horses and wagons, is to only allow them to wear clothes against the cold and to hold their weapons.

All of the heavy armour is on the wagons and inside the magic bags. If the road in front is blocked by enemy forces, we will get rid of them with magic.

"Even if we hurry as much as possible, it will take two... no, three days?"

We have been given horses, but those horses were more than twice as big as normal horses. If they are this big, they might also be regarded as different animals, but these horses are traditional northern horses.

"Even if we move by horse, it's not possible to have them gallop at full power. Since that's the case, these slow-paced horses pose no problem either."

They seem to be horses used for agriculture or to pull heavy load, but even then they walk faster than people. They were prepared ahead of time by Therese's elder brothers for the sake of pulling the wagons which transport the goods.

"Aren't they doing their job properly? I thought that they would look for alternatives such as betrayal though." (Wendelin)

"Dear, as expected, that might be going to far..." (Elise)

Although Therese said that it was impossible, I suspected her two elder brothers.

It was possible that they would be instigated to turn traitor by telling them "White skin is preferable for the new Duke Philip. If you work well, you will be assigned a responsible post in the new empire." according to Duke Nürnberg's plans.

"My cousins aren't that stupid. They know that the ones who will be purged next by Duke Nürnberg will be them, even if they succeeded in the betrayal."

I mounted a horse together with Elise and a young, dark-brown-skinned man was sitting on a normal horse that was running next to ours. As Therese's cousin, he's the family head of a branch family. He is the leader of this advance unit and his name is Alfons. He seems to be still 20 years old.

"The skin's colour is important."

"Yes. It might be something stupid if seen from the viewpoint of other people though."

Although they yielded to the empire, the blood of the Lan people has to run thickly within the family head of the Duke Philip household.

That's an absolute requirement. There were cases where someone with a white skin forcefully became the family head, but it never turned out well in the end.

"Besides, the children of both of my cousins have dark brown skin." (Alfons)

If she defeats Duke Nürnberg, Therese should become the next empress, if going by the circumstances. Since it's impossible for her to hold the seat of Duchess Philip and empress at the same time, she will naturally pass the duke title to her children.

"I see. In that case I'm relieved." (Wendelin)

"Right?" (Alfons)

Rather than belief, that never declines, and fanatic loyalty, that's something I can depend on.

"At any rate, what surprises me is that you can't ride a horse, Earl Baumeister." (Alfons)

"As eighth son of a poor Knight, I didn't have time to practise horse riding." (Wendelin)

In the former Baumeister household there were only a few warhorses. Even so, that doesn't mean that we had bought and kept a private warhorse like other nobles.

A good one was chosen from among the farming horses and I was only shown how to put a harness on it.

The fief's population, that didn't know the world outside, regarded it as a beautiful warhorse with only that much.

Actually, compared to the warhorses possessed by the Margrave Breithilde household, it can only be seen as a saddening packhorse.

However, even that one packhorse was apparently useful for the past Demon Forest expedition. As it was a farming horse, it put up with frugal fodder. And even though it was slow, its stamina was good.

Also, it seems like there were also survivors among the expeditionary force who stilled their hunger by killing this horse.

In my childhood there was no time for the eighth son to practise horse riding during a shortage of horses. Besides, as a magician, horses are unnecessary if there's [Flight] and [Teleportation].

In my previous life I at least experienced horse riding in establishments belonging to amusements parks and farms when I went there on school trips. As often is the case, that was me riding one round while being led by the person in charge after successfully mounting the horse.

With such a level of experience, you can't expect me to get on such a large horse all of a sudden. Therefore I'm currently just clinging to Elise's back while she's steering the horse.

"Wife-dono, you are skilled at handling a horse." (Alfons)

"That's because this horse's docile. Even if I was taught about it just a bit, it's alright." (Elise)

She's saying that modestly, but Elise is good at horse riding.

It seems she learned it since it was necessary as there were also cases where she had to leave into the vicinity of the capital during her voluntary activities at the church. As she was able to pick it up with just that, Elise is a perfect superwoman after all.

"Since it's right now a good opportunity, I will have Elise teach me in the breaks." (Wendelin)

"Good idea. Horse riding is indispensable for upper nobility."

As movement magic and magic airships aren't things that can be used that easily, horses are the most convenient for travelling normally. However, the maintenance and training of horses costs money. Especially for horses that become warhorses the costs rise exponentially.

Getting on a horse skilfully was also proof of high ranking nobility. Even that Margrave Breithilde who was generally acknowledged to have very bad reflexes, can ride a horse after getting proper training.

"For a man it's wonderful to mount a horse and stick to you, Elise." (Wendelin)

I won't go as far as telling her, but it's mostly the sensation of her butt.

"I know that feeling, but I believe it will be even more fantastic if you learn horse riding and have your wife ride in the back, Earl Baumeister." (Alfons)

Indeed, it's certainly as Alfons says. Even while being from a different country and ethnic group, he was a splendid guy who understands a man's romance.

"Alfons, you are a great guy." (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister, no, Wendelin. So you were a man of culture as well?" (Alfons)

Alfons and I exchange a passionate handshake from atop the horses.

"Dear, do you enjoy such things as well? Though we are a married couple..." (Elise)

Elise asks me while looking embarrassed.

Even though we are a married couple who has already seen each other nude bodies, she's probably wondering what's so delightful about feeling her butt and breasts through her clothes.

"Elise, that thing has nothing to do with the other." (Wendelin)

"Haa..." (Elise)

That might be an eternal wall between men and women.

Elise tilted her head to the side as she obviously didn't comprehend, but even that appearance of her was quite adorable.

"Actually, my wives can't understand it either." (Alfons)

Since Alfons is the family head of a branch family as Therese's cousin, he appears to have already three wives. You can also say that it's only natural for him to be a high-ranking person since he has been appointed as supreme commander of the advance unit.

"On my previous holiday I realized my dream." (Alfons)

"Dream, you say?" (Wendelin)

"That's right. I call it 『Dream of three nude aprons plan』..." (Alfons)

Even though they are the wives of a high-ranking branch family, he apparently watched them from behind as they were preparing the food in nude apron outfits while grinning broadly. He was a vulgar person to a frightening extent, but simultaneously I notice that I forgot something important.

"Damn! I haven't done that yet!" (Wendelin)

"That's a waste as it will be an even more superb view if you do it with five wives." (Alfons)

"That's definitely true! Next time I will have a go with that!" (Wendelin)

"I recommend to do so by all means." (Alfons)

Since I was supported by Alfons, I decide to definitely do it in my mind.

"As expected of my soulmate!"

"Dear, is there anything good about putting on an apron while nude?" (Elise)

Elise asks me with an expression that tells me immediately that she doesn't understand well.

She knows about the basic matters of men and women due to her education, but compared to Ina with her abundance of superficial knowledge about sex after borrowing strange books from Margrave Breithilde, she didn't have any knowledge of that kind.

"It will get easier to bear a child." (Wendelin)

"I wasn't aware. That it's easier to make a child with such method." (Elise)

It's not like I have lied in particular. The serious Elise apparently decided in her heart that she must cooperate if that's the case.

"Vel, you are..." (Ina)

That Ina with a lot superficial knowledge about sex tried to add something, but I don't have such leeway now since I'm earnestly trying to learn horse riding.

At any rate, since there are few high-ranking noble members in our party, the members who can ride horses are few as well. Elise, Wilma who learned horse riding with the help of Minister Edgar, and unexpectedly even Katharina can mount a horse.

In her case; she secretly practised it thinking that it's natural for a noble to ride a horse. Even her horse riding training was that of a loner. She might actually surpass me in being a loner expert.

"Wendelin-san, aren't you thinking about something rude?" (Katharina)

"Isn't that always not the case? I was only fascinated by your magnificent horse riding figure, Katharina." (Wendelin)

"Have at least a bit of prudence... Aren't you ashamed, Wendelin-san?" (Katharina)

It seems I deceived her skilfully. Katharina's face is dyed red to due my flattery.

I guess it's no problem though as her horse riding figure really suits her well.

"Wilma, how's Ina doing?" (Wendelin)

"I think she will learn it easily since her motor nerves are great." (Wilma)

I have no doubt that me learning horse riding should take the longest. My reflexes were ordinary no matter in what favourable light you assess them.

"Ooh! Katharina's breast are hitting my back! Vel, once we switch it will be paradise for you." (Luise)

"Luise-san! Aren't you ashamed!?" (Katharina)

Katharina, who is teaching Luise horse riding, complained about Luise's old man comment with a bright red face.

"Even among Wendelin's wives, there's someone who can understand a man's romance?" (Alfons)

"Alfons-san, please don't mention anything uncalled-for." (Katharina)

Katharina also complains to Alfons who recognises Luise as kindred soul.

"Good grief... A leader who makes one worried..." (Katharina)

Katharina says so, but I don't harbour any doubts at all about Alfons's qualities as leader. He's always spouting stupid things, but the advance unit is well in order.

'About Alfons, he is usually only talking about stupid stuff, but for some reason he can keep everyone together well.' (Therese)

With him having a mysterious charisma, his subordinates work happily.

In reality, that has happened to the advance unit as well. That's probably the reason why Therese appointed him as the supreme commander of the advance unit, too.

"However, that is unsightly..." (Alfons)

Alfons's look faced Doushi and Burkhart-san who are riding together on one Dosanko horse.

"Certainly... no talent..."

Burkhart-san is grasping the reins in front and Doushi is sitting behind him, but seeing that, nothing stirs in my heart.

What caused this combination is that Burkhart-san can more or less ride a horse with his old man's wisdom, but a normal warhorse would be harsh for him, and Doushi would crush any normal horse because his body is oversized.

"I wonder whether carrying Doushi is difficult even for a dosanko horse?"

Because it had to actually carry the weight of three people, the horse with the two on top had a slightly slower speed.

"You guys, saying whatever you want..." (Burkhart)

"There's only Armstrong-doushi's hard chest pressing against your back, Burkhart-dono. For me that would be impossible. Absolutely impossible. I would request a relief right away." (Alfons)

"The rumours appear to be true, Alfons-dono."

However, Alfons's words are reasonable as well. Something like the sensation of Doushi's 100% muscled chest, no one will be happy about that unless they have a unique fetish.

"Even I'm enduring it." (Armstrong)

"Don't say that, Doushi." (Burkhart)

Moreover, Doushi says something cruel without realizing it. Even though he has Burkhart-san transport him since he can't ride a horse by himself.

"However, it was unexpected for you to be unable to ride a horse, Doushi."

Since the Armstrong household is a military lineage, I thought that they would usually carry out horse riding practise.

"That's because the bodies of those belonging to the Armstrong household are big for generations now. Though there are largely-built horses through special breeding and training..." (Armstrong)

He was able to practise in his childhood at home, but when he left the household, it became difficult to obtain and maintain a large horse. Besides, Doushi is a magician.

There's no necessity to unreasonably mount a horse either. It might be correct to not try doing the impossible since it's been a rather long time since he could ride a horse last.

To compare it with my previous life, it might be the same as a paper driver.

(T/N: Someone who has a driving license but little experience in the actual driving itself)

"If it's this horse, it looks good enough for me to buy it afterwards." (Armstrong)

Doushi was happy that he found a horse which he can mount normally.

"Dosanko horses are on the list of prohibited items for export though." (Alfons)

Given that there are no horses as good as this to pull loads and wagons, it has been apparently forbidden to take them outside the Philip Dukedom. As sole exception, castrated male horses have been employed inside the empire.

"As a matter of fact, even the dosanko horses we are currently riding are castrated male horses." (Alfons)

Just as Alfons says, all of the dosanko horses had certainly scars of having been castrated.

It has been apparently decided to change all the specimen, which are drafted as warhorses, into castrated horses due to taking into account that they might be captured on the battlefield.

"But before that, dosanko horses can't survive in hot places." (Alfons)

Since the heat's easily stored inside their large bodies, their survival might be limited to the kingdom's north at best, Alfons predicted.

"How regrettable. However..." (Armstrong)

Doushi seems to have something that bothers him.

He suddenly turns his look to the side. The figures of Eru and Haruka riding on the same dosanko horse was visible at the end of his gaze.

"It's because we were poor nobles as well..." (Erwin)

"Please don't pull the reins too strongly." (Haruka)

"With a feeling of leaving it to the horse?" (Erwin)

"Yeah, that's right." (Haruka)

Since Eru is the fifth son of a poor noble just like me, he almost didn't have any experience in riding a horse. Haruka has similar circumstances, but since her skills allowed her to be selected into the Battou Unit, she has received training there.

Thus, Eru received horse riding training after riding the horse together with her.

"You are skilful." (Haruka)

"No, I'm still slightly uneasy, you know..." (Erwin)

"You will get used to it." (Haruka)

The serious Haruka politely taught horse riding to Eru, and he diligently received her coaching.

However, I have noticed it.

It's the same for Armstrong, Burkhart-san and Alfons.

Due to Haruka pushing her body against Eru's back from behind with too much enthusiasm towards the coaching, Eru is delighted in his mind.

'It's mainly the breasts...'

'Obviously.'

'Is there anything besides that?'

'It's a pressing setting. Haruka-kun has high points...'

Without much difference in the things men think about, we simultaneously whisper similar things. And, two days after that, we safely arrived at the Great Sorbid Wasteland while continuing our horse riding training.

* * *

"Good grief. The other side is eager as well..."

Three days after Duke Philip household's feudal army's advance unit arrived at the Great Sorbid Wasteland, I discovered a patrol of Duke Nürnberg household's army in the distance while carrying out construction works at the southern side.

"Earl Baumeister, since our group will kill them, you can continue your construction work with a peace of mind."

"I'm not worried about them though." (Wendelin)

In preparation of the rebel army of Duke Nürnberg household's feudal army and the rest advancing north, I've been repeatedly laying out moats against horses on the southern side of the Great Sorbid Wasteland and even cooperated in the construction of the field camp.

Though it was an act that blocks the northern highway which enables the traffic and circulation of goods in the empire, it's no problem since the rebel's army prohibited the travelling of merchants and people towards the northern area in advance.

Our side is of equal status in that regard since we have been prohibiting the travelling of the merchants and residents living in the northern area, too. It was a situation where the circulation of goods inside the empire was split into north and south due to the civil war, but since it's not really my fault, it can't be helped.

And the enemy patrols are regularly coming to see the state of our Construction Works, however they have been eliminated right away. The reason for that is...

"It's because our, Earl Mizuho Country's, prided Battou Unit is here."

Several of the elite Battou Unit of Earl Mizuho Country that were hiding behind rocks etc. which dotted the Great Sorbid Wasteland, assault the patrol's knights and soldiers with swords. They try to defend against that with swords and shields, but they end up getting their bodies cut into pieces by the equipped magic katanas.

What was left behind afterwards were only several cut sscorpses.

Each member of the Battou Unit who slew them, collects their corpses and the horses and comes back.

"How many times was it until now?"

"It's the fifth time, Milord."

"They are persistent. Don't forget to get rid of them each time they come here."

"As you order."

Once the members of the Battou Unit report to High Earl Mizuho, they put away the corpses and horses, and once again wait for the enemy after hiding.

Being suddenly stabbed with magic katanas by enemies who erased their presence, they end up getting sliced into pieces even if they defend with steel swords and shields. These magic katanas seem to have drawbacks in their mana consumption and maintainability, but even if you look at it through past history, their amazingness is obvious.

Each of them is an elite who has overcome harsh selections and trainings. I could actually experience why the soldiers of Earl Mizuho Country are feared by the people of the empire.

"However, the war progress is disadvantageous for our side, I guess?"

We are succeeding in constructing a defensive field camp in the Great Sorbid Wasteland to prevent the rebel army to advance north.

Given that I have also been participating with Construction Works magic in this, its general parts were completed in these three days, though it loses to [Sunomata Castle].

Even our defensive forces are exceeding 10.000 soldiers after the additional reinforcements from Duke Philip household have arrived. High Earl Mizuho has joined us while personally leading 10.000 troops.

There were also nobles who have declared siding with us and have sent their armies, if we exclude a part of the northern lords. Even the eastern and western lords, the majority of those nobles, who have territories in the north, are our allies.

However as we gradually are learning about the situation, it confirms that our side's at disadvantage. Most of the south and centre has fallen into the hands of the rebel army. There seem to be only Lan and Mizuho people, who went into hiding, and a part of the nobles, who are pretending to obey while secretly betraying, left now.

At any rate, Duke Nürnberg has confiscated the assets of the Lan and Mizuho people. And he is also sending them to detention camps. Economically that's not something admirable, but it's probably to prevent intelligence leaks and to hinder the destruction of the aforementioned magic tool that jams communication and travel.

"Never did I expect for all of the remaining prince-elector lords to turn traitor."

They have turned traitors or rather they have to do so because their family heads are kept as hostages. Most of the nobles were captured and placed under house arrest aside from those who resisted and were killed.

If you ask why we know this...

"They likely won't abandon their family heads and side with us."

"That's for sure."

A man with his body wrapped in black clothes is reporting to High Earl Mizuho.

I can't see his face, but I think his age is around 30. He seems to be the head of the intelligence unit of Earl Mizuho Country. They have inherited the name of 『Hanzou』 for generations. His appearance is that of a ninja often appearing in historical plays.

"It's troublesome that the speed of intelligence transmission has remarkably fallen due to communications and travel being blocked."

"It's the same for the other side as well though... It's become troublesome."

Making use of that, Duke Nürnberg suppressed the other prince-elector households and the central territories which are in disorder due to the absence of contact from their family heads.

It's not like all of them surrendered physically, but there were also prince-elector households which couldn't move what substantially benefited the rebel army. Hearing the report from Hanzou, Alfons sighs.

"Hanzou-san, how did you obtain that information about the imperial capital?" (Alfons)

"Of course by using my feet and horses. We 『Ninja』 prepare every day assuming such situation might happen." (Hanzou)

They seem to be gathering intelligence in enemy territory by running around and using horses. Though we have equal conditions, it's troubling that it takes time to do anything now that it has come to this.

"Earl Baumeister has his [Teleportation] and [Flight] blocked?"

Even if we scurried home, it would be bothersome since we would have to cut through the continent. I feel like wanting to avoid such worst-case scenario, if possible.

"Instead, he is overwhelming with other magic. He has finished the foundation works of the defensive field camp in merely three days."

Hanzou-san seemed to be surprised, but I was desperate since it will be troubling for our side if we get attacked by the rebel army while the camp's completion is delayed.

First, since the objective is to lower their numbers by killing the lot which has been dyed with doctrines and opinions as well as stopping the rebel army's momentum through defence, I have set up fences and moats against horses, and am continuing to build barracks, watchtowers and walls made out of stone and not tents in preparation for a long-lasting confrontation.

The materials for that were easy to procure since the Great Sorbid Wasteland is an area with many abandoned mountain mines to begin with.

After collecting the minerals which look usable, I cut up the stone which was left behind and turned it into solid building stone.

Though the mineral contents were insignificant since they have become abandoned mines in the first place, gathering these and using other magic to the utmost limit every day raises my mana amount as well.

There should be a number of even more amazing magicians in the empire which is a counterpart of the kingdom. It's also for the sake of not being killed by them that training everyday is important, I guess.

"Ughh! It's seems you got strong as well, Luise-jou." (Armstrong)

"Though the one who's amazing is you, Doushi, who is teaching us while in a 3 vs. 1 fight..." (Luise)

"My grown confidence due to having increased my mana has vanished..." (Ina)

"Doushi. Too strong..." (Wilma)

Even while possessing a vast amount of mana as a magician, Doushi, who can't use magic that's useful for living like me, continued to practise in a real combat format fighting simultaneously against Luise, Ina and Wilma whose mana had increased.

Luise's fists, Ina's spear and Wilma's large axe seemed to be hitting him, but all of them were repelled by Doushi's [Magic Barrier].

"It looks like my [Magic Barrier] will break if it gets attacked too much." (Armstrong)

"Though my hands are tingling..." (Luise)

"Albeit being for training use, my spear ended up getting chipped." (Ina)

"It's the same for my large axe..." (Wilma)

Even though all my wives became strong by increasing their mana due to special circumstances, Doushi still boasted a strength that was far beyond them.

"As you are [Storm], cut the stones properly and cleanly." (Burkhart)

"My strength lies in cutting things up and blowing them away with wind though..." (Katharina)

"Earl-sama does it neatly." (Burkhart)

"The plans to win against Wendelin-san in magic accuracy is still far ahead down the road." (Katharina)

"Don't you have any intention to win? Or rather, if you don't learn such types of magic, you will end up being similar to Doushi." (Burkhart)

"For me it's impossible to go to such extremes." (Katharina)

Katharina also helped out with the quarrying of building stones under the guidance of Burkhart-san. For her it's a necessary training since she still has slight problems with finely-tuned magic accuracy.

"Katharina, without realizing it, about Doushi..."

Doushi should be the world's strongest in solitary fighting strength without a doubt.

However, different from me and Burkhart-san, he can't use life magic such as [Construction Works]. Even the fact of Doushi having been able to learn [Holy] healing magic actually surprised Burkhart-san.

Given that even Katharina should consider it as impossible to become a combat specialist at Doushi's level, she's probably placing priority on learning magic that can also be used for the development of her territory.

"Thanks to Earl Baumeister's group the construction of the field camp is going well. In that case, intercepting them is all that's left."

"Will the rebel army really come?"

"Definitely. So don't be negligent on diligently preparing on site."

Therese, who's planning to come here after settling the large amount of government affairs, probably wants us to raise the morale of our allied nobles.

As they were named differently such as coup d'état forces, Duke Nürnberg household's army and such, we assigned the official name 『Rebel Army』 to them.

"Duke Nürnberg has done something that shouldn't be done. I think that satisfies the condition to call them a rebel army?"

Therese declared while facing her allied nobles. Alfons secretly told me yesterday.

"First we should try to obtain predominance in the war's progress by raising the morale and not surrendering this field camp. That will deliver a blow to the rebel army."

The military resources on the rebel army's side are large, but there are many who follow them reluctantly since they are labelled as rebel army. Therefore they want to pull such people to the rebel army's side in one go by winning here. Alfons also predicted that the first offensive isn't that far away.

"On the other hand, won't the other side's morale drop if they lose?" (Wendelin)

"They probably don't expect that to happen." (Mizuho)

"I see." (Wendelin)

I assist in the construction of the field camp until evening while having a chat with High Earl Mizuho. Since I consumed my mana nicely as well, I returned to my own house.

The house, which was built with stones I cut out myself, is well done for a hurried construction. Katharina was made to complete the interior instead of practising magic. It reached the point of us being able to lead a comfortable life since we set up the magic tools we brought along inside. Since cooking and such is being handled by Elise and the other girls in turns, there are no issues.

"Wife-san, please prepare my share as well." (Alfons)

For some reason Alfons, who is in charge of the expeditionary force in this field camp, waited for the food while sitting at our table.

"My friend, why are you here?" (Wendelin)

"I simply got bored of it." (Alfons)

In the rules of the Duke Philip household it seems to be stated that everyone has to eat the same meals in war time.

We are treated as mercenaries. There's no problem since we are taking care of our food, from the ingredients to the seasoning, but it looks like Alfons's group has to continue eating the same stuff every day.

"Rye bread, dishes that have steamed potatoes, sauerkraut and vegetable soup with bacon or sausages in it. Also, one cup of aquavit during off duty. As one would expect, I got tired of that after continuing it for three days." (Alfons)

"What about Earl Mizuho Country?" (Wendelin)

"They are special." (Alfons)

Usually they are dishing out cooked rice, pickled vegetables, dried plum, and meat or fish with miso soup.

No matter how you look at it, it's Japanese food, but since the skill of producing magic tools is high in Earl Mizuho County, they don't seem to have any troubles with the transport of ingredients.

"If you go there, you can eat something different. It's delicious." (Wendelin)

"Although I want to eat it very much as well, it's troublesome since it will be treated as courtesy call if I go to visit Earl Mizuho Country's encampment." (Alfons)

Since we are treated as mercenaries, that also means we could easily enjoy the delicious Mizuho food in an uncomplicated manner. Since it's basically Japanese food, it was delicious food for me.

"For this reason it resulted in me getting treated here." (Alfons)

With a nonchalant look Alfons sat down in the seat between Doushi and Burkhart-san, and ate the stew made by Elise.

"My friend, your wives are skilled at cooking." (Alfons)

"They have to be able to cook for themselves since they are also working as adventurers." (Wendelin)

"I see. That's how you are avoiding Milady." (Alfons)

There's no way for that to be the reason.

It's simply because taking a foreign country's duchess-sama as wife will be nothing but trouble.

"How about you accepting her, Alfons?"

I believe he has plenty qualifications since he's capable as her cousin.

"Me and Therese are close as childhood friends. However, it's not such a relationship." (Alfons)

"Isn't it fine since it's a noble marriage anyway?" (Wendelin)

"Nooo... In this situation the burden of the post-war period will be heavy as well..." (Alfons)

Alfons expects that Therese will become the next empress after being victorious in the civil war. Since the imperial court at that time will be in a mess thanks to the rebellion, he predicted that it probably won't be any good unless he serves in the Imperial Palace as well.

"It's troublesome, but what will happen if the new administration collapses once again? When it comes to the new Duke Philip, it will be Therese's nephews after she succeeds the imperial throne. They need a guardian as well. Their fathers are still alive, but Philip Dukedom's government won't operate if I don't help out due to the influence of skin colour." (Alfons)

"Sounds difficult, my friend." (Wendelin)

"If that happens, I guess I won't have any other choice but to shorten the maids' skirts? By the way, I don't see Erwin." (Alfons)

"Aah, if it's Eru..." (Wendelin)

As a matter of fact he was taking lessons in swordsmanship from Haruka.

Eru, who likes the sword and possesses money as well, consulted with Haruka about trying to gather a collection of Mizuho katanas since it's a valuable chance, but...

"Katanas and swords are completely different items. Isn't a katana that won't be used pitiful?" (Haruka)

"Since there seem to be people in the empire who are collecting them as works of art, it will be actually fine if you get introduced to one of them and buy a suitable katana."

The one who declared that seriously was the girl called Haruka.

Usually she is devoting herself to guarding us. She's a serious person to an extent that she won't readily join after being invited to tea by Elise and the others while saying, "I'm still on duty after all.".

Even so, if they invite her while saying that it's my order, she participates and eats sweets while showing a happy face. Since she's a woman, she likes sweets very much after all.

"So, will you learn katana techniques?"

With that as the reason Eru went to the encampment of Earl Mizuho Country in his spare time and took katana lessons there. According to High Eral Mizuho he seems to have a good aptitude.

"He is aiming for Haruka-kun? Or for a katana?" (Alfons)

"I guess it's both." (Wendelin)

Though he likes Haruka as well, he's also fond of swords and katanas.

I think that I'd like to have a katana, too, but I couldn't believe at all that I will be able to master it by myself.

"So, is there any hope?" (Alfons)

"Maybe, maybe not..." (Wendelin)

It shouldn't turn into a problem due to pedigree, but the issue is that I have absolutely no idea how the far too serious Haruka thinks about Eru. Also, another point might be the existence of Haruka's elder brother.

"Haruka's elder brother serves in the Battou Unit as well, doesn't he?"

This inheriting elder brother was a far better swordsman than Haruka. Moreover he dotes on Haruna to an abnormal level.

He hasn't complained about the matter of Haruka being assigned as our guard since it's his lord's order, but it appears that he isn't pleased about Eru talking with Haruka about things in this encampment. Thanks to that, Eru was relentlessly worked hard by that elder brother every day.

"In other words, that means there won't be any problems if I win against that elder brother." (Erwin)

From the point of view of Eru, who has a character that hates to lose in the first place, he seems to be treating that elder brother as mid-boss whom he has to defeat.

"As expected of the Battou Unit!"

"This man. He's stronger than I expected..."

There's no difference between swords and katanas if it's about killing people in actual combat. Due to the fact that he is less superior in swordsmanship in comparison to Eru than he thought, it caused Haruka's elder brother's sense of impending danger to grow stronger.

"Such is the springtime of life for you." (Alfons)

"My friend, you are quite dry, or rather..." (Wendelin)

"In my case it won't result in such development. I'm completely ignorant about martial arts." (Alfons)

Although he's excelling as a commander, Alfons's sword skills are a good match with mine. He probably can't understand the idea of crossing swords with an elder brother for the sake of one's beloved woman.

Though it's a wonderful story if he somehow struggles to win or gets recognised for his skills even if he loses, me and Alfons would likely get killed instantly.

"Putting aside Erwin-lads matters, they will be here soon, won't they?" (Armstrong)

"It will probably take still a few more days." (Alfons)

"Doushi, is that something similar to battlefield intuition?"

"It's simply my calculation of the distance from the imperial capital and their marching speed." (Armstrong)

Alfons is admiring Doushi's keen forecast. It might have been almost identical to his own thoughts.

Burkhart-san is the same as well. Both of them weren't perturbed at all even when they killed soldiers at the time when we escaped Bardiche.

They should have cut their way through quite the scenes of carnage in their early days. Even master might have the experience of having killed people in the past, I guess?

"I'm looking forward to your participation, Earl Baumeister-dono."

"Do you have to expressly mention that?"

"If I don't do that, it will be difficult for me to eat my meals here."

In the end Alfons eats up the share of around three people. Receiving even the kingdom's special wine, which I stored in my magic bag, he returns to the troop headquarters.

"He has quite the guts. Alfons-sama, that is." (Ina)

Ina seems to be astonished by Alfons's impudence.

"If such person acts as the leader, we will have it easy as mercenaries."

While I have to use magic at the front line anyway, it would be unbearable if I had to even manage the military forces.

I will receive remuneration such as goods and money for the work I did. But the post-war empire will make sure to lessen my, Earl Baumeister's, influence. That might be the best method to prevent unnecessary troubles.

"Vel, if you can freely go shopping in Earl Mizuho Country, there won't be any problems, right?"

"That's how it is." (Wendelin)

Superior types of miso and soy sauce, which I created myself through independent study, are sold in that country. Since I'm picky about my food, I wanted to regularly obtain those by all means.

"You joined a war for the sake of soy sauce?" (Luise)

"As expected, that's not all there's to it." (Wendelin)

I denied Luise's question while laughing.

In any case, there's nothing better but making this civil war end. It's uncertain whether it can be finished quickly, but there will be too many, various inconveniences if it doesn't end. If the kingdom gets dragged into it and intervenes, the empire will be ruined unnecessarily.

Even for the kingdom there should be only few things to be gained in comparison to the expenses and labour. The development inside the country will get delayed as well. There will probably only be some people who will be delighted about it.

"However, to accept the job that easily..."

Elise is worried, but as a matter of fact I have already received quite the reward.

I take out gold and silver ingots from my magic bag and pile them up on top of the table which had the tableware tidied up since we finished our meal.

"That's a splendid amount, isn't it? But, what about it?"

"I borrowed it from the abandoned mines." (Wendelin)

"What about Therese-sama's permission?"

"Of course I got it." (Wendelin)

I answer to Burkhart-san and Doushi while revealing a smile that shows my evil character.

Naturally at the end a last exploitation has been carried out by the empire's magicians, who can use 『Extraction』 and [Collection] spells, in the abandoned mines which were dotting this Great Sorbid Wasteland.

Therefore there are absolutely no metal types, that look usable, left on the surface and dozens of meters below the surface. However, what about further below that? Moreover, extinct volcanoes exist in this Great Sorbid Wasteland.

Because of the gold gushing forth from the underground mantle, Japan, which is actually a volcano country, was called a golden country.

Using a large amount of mana, I spread the range of [Extraction to several hundred meters below. As it's the most suitable for the training of increasing my mana capacity by using a large amount of mana, I always did that before returning to our house.

"With these there won't be any losses for us even if Therese shirks the reward." (Wendelin)

"It's very unlikely for her to do that."

"My father-in-law said: A dead hero is a good hero." (Wilma)

Contrary to his appearance, Minister Edgar has apparently read history books. He has told something smart to his in-law daughter Wilma.

"Also, if we destroy that device, it will be all right for us to escape with [Teleportation] in the worst case."

"Got it. I will be sure to not separate from you, Vel-sama." (Wilma)

Wilma gently sits down on top of my knee.

"As Wilma says, it's not uncommon for accidents to happen." (Katharina)

"True. In the end we will kill their brethren."

Burkhart-san agreed with Katharina's opinion, too.

It's a measurement against the increase in people of the empire resenting us for obtaining achievements by participating actively.

"Ebbo-san, was it? There's definitely a number of such people."

I recall that annoying guy when I destroyed the other carriages in order to hinder our enemy's means of transportation at the time we escaped from the imperial capital.

"There are also cases where people got executed after announcing that they went against military orders since they didn't want to give them their rewards after a rebellion."

The people of the empire, who will be unhappy due to many losses occuring due to the rebellion, will turn us, who killed many of their brethren as foreign mercenaries, into scapegoats. It's not possible to say that it definitely won't happen.

"I believe that won't happen if we restrict the discussion to Therese. But, if it happens..." (Wendelin)

"What will we do if it happens, dear?" (Elise)

"We will retaliate appropriately." (Wendelin)

Though it ended up turning into a slightly scary talk, we move to the bedroom since it's soon time to sleep.

Since I carefully clogged up the cracks in the house, it's warm with no cold air entering from outside. However, as there was no way for me to make that many rooms, there were basically only two bedrooms.

"A room for the men and one for the women, it is...?"

"As a noble it's indispensable for Earl Baumeister to have children, but..."

Since currently it's a time of war, it's probably safer to avoid that. I also don't have the fetish of doing it while being heard by Doushi and Burkhart-san.

"I'm home." (Erwin)

"Eru, did you train until now?"

"There was that as well, but I ordered a katana, too." (Erwin)

Eru and Haruka are alternating in the night guard duty of this house with the other soldiers. Since it's Haruka's turn today, Eru went to order a katana for him to use.

"So, you want iron sand?"

Ten-odd katana smiths are following the Earl Mizu Country's military forces.

They carefully carry out such things as forging new Mizuho katanas to be used on the battlefield and maintenancing the existing ones. Since the special maintenance of the magic katanas is especially troublesome, they seem to be busy every day together with special magic tool craftsmen.

"A katana with a very good quality is impossible unless bought inside Earl Mizuho Country though." (Erwin)

For the ones used on the battlefield it seems to be plenty if they can be prepared here.

"You didn't get hold of a magic katana?"

"Those are bothersome to maintain. If you heard their price, your waist would give in." (Erwin)

Even if they are plundered, you can't use them for more than a few weeks well if you don't maintenance them in a special way. And that maintenance technique appears to be highly guarded. Since it's a magic tool, even the price seems to be terribly high.

"Eru-lad, won't you get one if you take Haruka as your wife?" (Armstrong)

"Nooo, isn't that unreasonable?" (Erwin)

As Eru says, they are probably not that easy to obtain. After all it's a technology that supports the superiority of the Earl Mizuho Country's army's quality.

"Do you intend to take Haruka as your wife?"

"For Haruka-san, there's no man who is promised to marry her."

After having learnt from his past mistakes, he seems to properly confirm such things.

"If I beat Haruka's elder brother after learning the katana techniques..." (Erwin)

It was unknown whether it will go that easily, but it will probably be alright since Eru should have more talent than me.

"Hahahaha! This time you will definitely realize your love!" (Armstrong)

"If I'm told such a thing, I actually feel a bad premonition." (Erwin)

"That won't happen."

After that the four of us went to bed, but a single problem cropped up at this point.

"Gugoo~~~! Funu! Let me break those fingers!"

"*griiinnnddd*"

"Can't you just shut up..."

Since I just got married, I wanted to sleep together with my wives according to my male instincts, but that was impossible since Haruka's bed was in the women's room as well. Furthermore, Doushi's snoring and dangerous sleep-talking as well as Burkhart-san's bruxism were annoying.

With this always happening in these three days after it was decided that we will sleep together, our fleeting hope during the first day thinking that it's because it's an unfamiliar place was smashed.

"My married wives can sleep properly." (Wendelin)

"Really, it looks like we will lack sleep." (Erwin)

Eru and me began to earnestly try to sleep somehow by wrapping into the futons. Giving up right away, I got stuck casting [Sleep] magic.

Chapter 85: The First Sorbid Wasteland Engagement

"A superb view, isn't it!?" (Armstrong)

"No, I don't think it's a situation where you would call it that..." (Wendelin)

One week after we set up camp in the Sorbid Wasteland, the rebel army finally sent forth its advance guard.

With the stone palings and trenches against horses we laid out along the road towards the southern tip in-between, both armies glare at each other.

The estimated military forces of the rebel army are around 40.000 whereas our allied forces amount to approximately 25.000.

Going by numbers, we were at disadvantage, but as for quality we shouldn't lose to them. Besides, since it's a defensive battle, we shouldn't lose as long as we don't mess up... is what I want to believe.

We were stiff from nervousness since it's our first war, but Doushi acted as usual as if it didn't concern him at all. Even Burkhart-san seems to be astounded by his nerves of steel. I'm sure that he's completely brazen-faced like a dragon.

"Let's tear the imperial capital's 『blue and white daikons』 to pieces!"

"""Ooohh~~~!"""

Moreover, the ones with the highest fighting spirit amongst our allies are probably the members of Earl Mizuho Country who have been dispatched for the first time to a battle other than their past defending ones.

From their point of view, the advocates of an Urquhart race supremacy in the empire's centre and south are inexcusable and they will go as far as annihilating them if they come attacking. Such feelings among them are strong. Being deployed on the eastern side of the defence encampment, they provoked the rebel army while holding up the katanas they drew.

Furthermore 『blue and white daikons』 is a contemptible name the Mizuho people are using for the centre's people like those in the capital. Since I personally like daikon, I want you to avoid using it in scorn too much though.

Yesterday evening the pickled vegetables that resembled 『pickled daikon radish』 and the combined cooking in 『oden』 became a treat by High Earl Mizuho. It went well together with the hot Mizuho sake in this still cold season.

"Their fighting spirit is roaring, isn't it. That will be of help."

And, in the centre of the encampment, the Supreme Commander Representative Alfons has taken up position together with Duke Philip household's imperial knight order.

"Our numbers are lower than theirs, but will we manage somehow if we fight to decrease their numbers with a defensive battle?" (Wendelin)

"I have high expectations of you, Earl Baumeister, for the sake of decreasing the casualties on our side. Best regards to Doushi and Burkhart-dono, as well." (Alfons)

"I got it!" (Armstrong)

"Well, there's no other choice but for us to be in the centre." (Burkhart)

In case of a real battle like this, the deployment of the magicians was important.

While a magician has mana remaining, they are a joker-like existence that is capable of mass slaughtering ordinary soldiers. Of course the biggest number of them is placed at the troops headquarters. The military forces will end up collapsing quickly if the supreme commander gets killed after all.

However, there's also the opposing move of leaving the defence of the headquarters thin on purpose. There's also the possibility of using the clever scheme of diminishing the enemy soldier's numbers in one go by deploying powerful magicians at the left and right wing. That kind of deployment is one of the possible strategies, but as a matter of fact, thanks to the device that jams 『communication』 and 『movement』 spells, it turned into a situation where we are troubled by the stationing of the magicians.

Since reinforcement by flying over won't work, I have a feeling that they took the safe measure of putting us in the centre and spread the remaining magicians equally all over.

The Duke Philip household actually employs a number of magicians, consisting of one high-level, four intermediate-level and fifteen elementary-level magicians, that can't be compared with someone like Margrave Breithilde. Even the other noble households are employing unexpectedly many magicians.

In addition to them, even the adventurer's guild was ordered to temporarily recruit magicians. It seems that there's such a system in times of war. There were many magicians who responded to that.

The empire's adventurer guilds are currently split in two. The northern branches have been baited by Therese with being promoted to the imperial capital's main headquarters after the civil war is over and have allied with our side.

The central and southern branches appear to be cooperating completely with the rebel army. There are also some branches, who have announced their neutrality, among them. The rest of the guilds were in a state of being split into two factions depending on whom they are supporting.

In case of a reintegration after the war, Therese will likely end up with quite the hardships.

"No matter which side's military forces; both have gathered as many magicians as possible. There are also many folks who deny supporting either side as they hate such situations, but the supply of monster materials and magic tools will decrease for a while." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san seems to be worried about the influence on the economy, but this much is inevitable as the civil war has to end. Besides, pondering about that is Therese's and the empire's people's job.

"I guess there are many magicians from the Ran race and Mizuho people?"

"That's because it's a critical moment deciding life and death for these ethnic groups."

If one watches Duke Nürnberg's way of handling things, it might be natural to feel a sense of impending danger.

There are a lot of magicians from the Mizuho people and the Ran tribe who had a dark brown skin colour. There seem to be especially many magicians employed individually by Earl Mizuho Country. Their quality shouldn't lose to that of the centre.

"The relief units quality is high as well."

"Earl Baumeister's wife is a superior healing magician." (Alfons)

Alfons seems to place great expectations on the ability of Elise's healing magic.

If a great number of injuries are healed quickly, that will likely influence the army's strength substantially.

Together with the healers that were dispatched by the church, Elise works as member of the relief unit slightly in the rear. I have her devote to healing in the rear since her offensive means are lacking even if if she went to the front.

However, a disturbance occurred at that point.

"Eeh? You are splitting apart the relief unit from the one of Earl Mizuho Country?" (Elise)

"Elise-dono, I know the fact about you also being a priestess of the church, but this issue is an adult consideration." (???)

"I heard the rumours, but..." (Elise)

The problem, which caused the most heated dispute when the empire made Earl Mizuho Country a protectorate, was this issue of religion. As a matter of fact Earl Mizuho Country believed in another religion than the one of the church.

I don't know whether that's owed to them being Japanese-styled, but the religion is a like a mix of Buddhism and Shintoism. We have also seen several temple-like buildings in Earl Mizuho Country that had Shinto shrine archways.

"The radicals in the church urged to have the Mizuho people convert religiously."

If they did such a thing, it would have been highly likely for the Mizuho people to unite and start a religious war. Heavy losses would have appeared on both sides, I guess.

"After all, much blood flowed at the time when the empire assigned Protestantism as its state religion."

The firm believers of Catholicism attacked protestants. Due to the protestants' side retaliating as well, it apparently went as far as being on the brink of a civil war. This happened even though they are the same religion.

It would have become terrible if they pressed the Mizuho people to convert against their wills.

"Accordingly, they came up with a compromise policy."

Although they are praying to the same god, the form is slightly different. The Mizuho faith is something like a denomination of the church. That's how they forcibly handled it.

"The church agreed to not propagate its belief inside Earl Mizuho Country in a secret treaty. And the Mizuho faith promised to not propagate its belief in the rest of the empire either."

It seems there are also people who have become believers of the Mizuho faith among other ethnic groups and moved their residence to Earl Mizuho Country. Likewise there are believers of the church among the Mizuho people living outside Earl Mizuho Country. But, since it was a very small minority, they weren't minded overly much.

"Understood..." (Elise)

Elise isn't stupid, neither is she a religious fanatic.

She understood people who believe in other religions, but there are probably some parts she can't agree with no matter what, too. It might be inevitable since she has been involved with the church since her childhood.

"Being unable to approve since it's a religion different from your own, is not much different from Duke Nürnberg, you know..." (Wendelin)

"I'm sorry, dear." (Elise)

"Because you haven't seen anything else but the church since your childhood, Elise, I understand even if you can't agree at some parts though." (Wendelin)

It's an arrogant manner of speaking, but this might also be the way of thinking of a person who was originally Japanese and has a vague view on religion.

"That's right, Elise. Things like religions are just instruments after all." (Armstrong)

"Doushi, since you are more or less the Royal Head Magician, put some proper thought into your wording." (Burkhart)

Due to the honest opinion of Doushi, who doesn't believe in religion at all in a different meaning from me, Burkhart-san rebuked him lightly.

"How about you, Earl-sama?" (Burkhart)

"It's not like I don't believe in anything at all. Look, I want to pray before a battle like this as well." (Wendelin)

It's a kind of 『Even the head of a sardine believes*』, but since I'm usually contributing to the church with donations and concessions, it should be fine if they are useful at times as well.

(T/N: Basically "Even something worthless like the head of a sardine will be seen as something precious if there's a will to believe in it." It's a proverb illustrating the strangeness of religious piety.)

"Does that mean that I'm inflexible?" (Elise)

"I don't think that's the case, is it?" (Ina)

"That's right. If it's a really obstinate person, I think they will forcibly press a religious conversion." (Luise)

Ina and Luise, who possess a distanced relation towards the church just like me, comforted Elise.

"Besides, once the war starts, they won't be able to worry about such things." (Wilma)

"They won't be able to say that they won't heal someone because their religion is different." (Katharina)

As Wilma and Katharina say, once the battle starts, the magicians and priests in charge of healing will become very busy.

Swiftly healing the wounded was something indispensable to maintain the military forces. As a matter of fact, at times they will have to consider the healing order. Assuming two wounded people were carried in front of a certain magician who had mana left for one heal.

One person an ordinary soldier, the other a renown knight If the magician gave priority to the knight considering his fighting strength, what would he do if the soldier had a serious wound bringing him close to death? Although the soldier would end up dying without getting healed, the future casualties would decrease by having the knight return, if one considers the war progress. That means it was essential to heal the knight and let the soldier die.

"It's no good if we don't request the Earl Mizuho Country to be flexible as well." (Elise)

"The other side might not have such leeway, but there will also be cases where people will die if we don't rely on them. That is, if we don't handle this part flexibly." (Wendelin)

"Understood, dear." (Elise)

After this conversation, Elise headed to the field sick bay in the rear. Nevertheless, religion is quite bothersome.

* * *

"However, war is a cruel thing."

Since there's the danger of the wounded returning to the front-line after getting healed, it's necessary to kill your opponent without fail in a real war.

Something like the previous dispute can't be regarded as anything but a game, but real war ended two hundred years ago. This situation is in order to not readily turn it into a war between countries.

"For the time being it seems that the enemy army's general is introducing himself." (Alfons)

Ahead of where Alfons pointed with his chin, there was a fat middle-aged man, who was riding a beautiful horse and wearing an extravagant armour, and two mounted knights who apparently served as his guards. He made his horse gallop this way, but came to a standstill in front of the trench against horses I created.

"Barbarians who don't understand the aesthetics of knighthood! Listen well! I'm the Imperial Army's General Classen who was ordered to liberate the Sorbid Wasteland by His Majesty!" (Classen)

"Aesthetics, eh... I think that's useless if you don't win the war." (Alfons)

"Humph! That dark female pig's gutless cousin, huh!?" (Classen)

Being treated as black pig; Therese probably wouldn't have been very pleased about this. Talking about aesthetics and such to people, I think you don't use such slander.

"General Classen, as you don't work out and only boast about your management abilities, you ended up turning into a white pig." (Alfons)

The rebel army's general appears to be a traitor from the imperial army. Going by his tone, he seems to be a friend of Duke Nürnberg, but his provocations were returned with provocations by Alfons.

"Nunu! If you surrender now, we will spare your lives." (Classen)

His face was bright red out of anger, but somehow he was able to not forget the courtesy before the battle of demanding surrender.

"Just our lives will be spared, ehh..." (Alfons)

"Barbarians who soil our Urquhart race's right to live! Consider yourself grateful for just being allowed to stay alive!" (Classen)

"That Urquhart race or whatever is just a dream. There's no such ethnic group after all." (Alfons)

"You have a retort for everything, don't you!? Even though you are just a greenhorn!" (Classen)

"You not being able to win an argument against such greenhorn equals to you being incompetent." (Alfons)

"Acting arrogant though you are just a newcomer!" (Classen)

Intending to provoke, he gets provoked in reverse. General Classen's face became deep red. Even so, I'd like him to have a bit better taste in provocation and insult.

"Do you know him?" (Wendelin)

"He's a famous idiot." (Alfons)

He was able to become a general because of his good lineage, but without that he seems to be a person that can become at best a corporal. His family's home is proud of being a distinguished family from the time before the empire's foundation. With those family ties, you can consider him as someone who matches well with Duke Nürnberg.

Thanks to Alfons' explanation, I understood the circumstances of this General Classen.

"We will annihilate you lot!" (Classen)

It's different if it's winning against 25.000 with 40.000, but a total annihilation should be impossible. He's treated as incompetent by Alfons as he doesn't understand even that much.

General Classen withdrew to the rear in order to start the battle.

"Won't it be easier if we kill him with magic?" (Wendelin)

"It's a breach of etiquette. Since the other side is more or less abiding to the rules, let's overlook him for now." (Alfons)

I do feel like giving a shit about rules since the moment they caused a rebellion, but let's follow Alfons' order here.

A short time later, the infantry stepped forward, and began to advance while placing planks on the trenches I dug up against horse attacks.

"All troops! Start firing!" (Alfons)

Since the rebel army approached the long-distance firing range, Alfons orders for the firing to begin, but all of the released arrows are repelled.

"A~~~ha ha! Did you see my army's 『Wide-Area Magic Barrier』!?" (Classen)

Even though it's not like he went out himself, General Classen seems to be in a good mood after all of the first arrows were repelled.

He's probably making almost all magicians cast a [Magic Barrier] and is trying to continue advancing just like that.

"That's because they will be able to reach this field encampment unhurt if all goes well."

Given that our side's attacks are prevented, it might be possible to get the initiative without any losses if it's done skilfully.

However, there's a trap in this strategy.

Since our side's attacks are stopped by a [Magic Barrier], they are unable to attack as well.

"Sometimes there are people who come up with such strategies, but usually it will be put aside as wild delusion, right...?"

Certainly, they won't receive any attacks until the [Magic Barrier] isn't removed, but in reverse they aren't able to attack at all. With the harsh consumption of mana, it should become difficult later on.

Since he can't reach such a way of thinking, General Classen is an incompetent person, I guess.

"Even so, this is a chance, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

I take out the binoculars from my magic bag and start to search for magicians in the enemy lines.

With the elementary-levelled and intermediate-levelled magicians being spread out equally, the closing-in rebel army is almost evenly covered by the [Magic Barrier].

It might be an appropriate way of using magic for the rebel army which is aiming for a first victory due to their superiority in numbers. Though that is if they don't consider the endurance of the spell.

"The high-levelled classes are..." (Wendelin)

After a few seconds, I discover a magician who possesses mana at the level of Burkhart-san. Since he's kept back in the centre after all, they seem to have a fixed number of good quality magicians.

'I can easily defeat them if I go at it from the front, but...' (Wendelin)

Given that they are the cornerstones of the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] covering the entire large army, they can't act freely. As proof of that, they are donning the appearance of common soldiers.

They are deliberately masquerading like that in order to prevent getting sniped with magic from our side.

"Wilma." (Wendelin)

I bring my face close to Wilma's, hand her the binoculars and tell her about the magicians disguising themselves as soldiers. It's in order to ask her to snipe them.

"Still don't know..." (Wilma)

"It's because not much time has passed after increasing your mana. You will learn it sooner or later." (Wendelin)

Wilma still hasn't become used to distinguishing magicians. Accordingly I decided to designate the targets for her.

"Y~~~ea. Difficult." (Wilma)

While saying so, Wilma nocks an iron arrow onto the aforementioned iron bow and snipes the magician.

Usually the arrow would be repelled by the [Magic Barrier]. She shouldn't be able to shoot a freely-acting high-level magician. However, currently most of the magicians are busy with deploying the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] in a group effort.

As they are focussing their entire might on that, they shouldn't be able to react to an iron arrow that comes flying at them all of a sudden. A [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] possesses a firm defence power, but naturally it has flaws as well. It's fine if you break through with offensive power that exceeds its defence power.

The iron arrow fired by Wilma penetrates the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] of the rebel army with a [Boost] I piled up onto it and smashed the head of the magician, who disguised himself as soldier, into smithereens.

By its appearance it's a plain spell, but I remembered the sensation of having a large amount of mana taken away due to penetrating a quite firm [Magic Barrier]. The iron arrow, which pierced the target, causes further casualties by piercing several soldiers in the rear.

"Hii!??" (???)

Apparently getting confused by the death of a high level magician, the ranks in the surroundings become disordered, but the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] didn't vanish. It probably means that it won't get erased by the death of one or two magicians.

No matter how splendid a magician, if their actions are tied up, they will end up dying quickly. One can probably guess the ability of General Classen who doesn't understand such a thing.

"Tsk!" (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san clicks his tongue.

It was planned to give a signal to our allies once the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] vanished and have them fire spells and arrows at the enemy.

"Earl-sama, kill some more." (Burkhart)

"Roger." (Wendelin)

To pull down the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier], there's no other choice but to kill magicians who possess an advanced level of mana that supports a bigger part of the barrier.

"Ina-san, it's that person." (Katharina)

"It's difficult to find them because of their disguises." (Ina)

Katharina seems to also show the results of her special training with Burkhart-san.

Telling her the location of the disguised magician, Ina throws a spear using her improved mana. Katharina places a [Boost] on it as well. It made a hole right in the middle of the magician's torso and he died. It's definitely been an instant death.

"I feel sorry but he would return after getting healed if it was just an injury. Make sure to definitely kill them." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san's role was to make sure that Alfons doesn't die no matter what and to give orders to us.

At such times difference in experience will become apparent no matter what. Even Doushi obediently abided to his orders.

"If Eru-boy dies while still unmarried, it will be pitiful." (Burkhart)

"Burkhart-san as well, you can't die because you are a newly-wed." (Erwin)

"Say such things after getting married." (Burkhart)

"I will marry soon." (Erwin)

Eru who's acting as my guard, retorts to Burkhart-san while looking at Haruka who is guarding Katharina, but honestly speaking, I didn't really know whether he has a chance.

"Anyway, target those with a high magic capacity. There's no doubt that it's those who are disguised." (Alfons)

"Hey, when is our turn?" (Luise)

"I'm bored, too." (Armstrong)

"There will definitely be a follow-up attack. We are preserving you two so that you can kill a great number by yourself." (Alfons)

Alfons declared so cool-headedly, however his opinion is correct.

Duke Nürnberg, who rose in rebellion, is wrong and Therese, who tries to defeat him, is right, but there are many nobles who have no choice but to lower their heads to Duke Nürnberg who has seized most of the centre and south. That means it's necessary to remove their binding to Duke Nürnberg by achieving a great victory here.

"It will be really troublesome if there's no damage in a war."

Two high-level and eight intermediate-level magicians have already died due to our sniping.

Upon mine or Katharina's instruction, Wilma and Ina snipe, and after adding [Boost] to their attacks, they break through the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier].

It consumes a lot more mana than an unskilful strategic-class attack spell, but if we kill the high-ranking magicians at this point, it will become easier in the future.

"It's a massive loss for the other side."

"I pity the magicians who die while unable to demonstrate their true strength due to such order." (Armstrong)

Doushi shows compassion to the killed magicians.

If one were to ask why it turned into such a stupid result, it would be because of the incompetence and cowardice of General Classen.

Magicians, who can certainly demonstrate effectiveness if allowed to act freely, ended up stuck with the duty of maintaining a [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] for the sake of lowering the losses among the soldiers.

"It looks like there were many cases where the usage of magicians influenced the outcome in past wars. There was enormous damage to the winning side if even a single, remaining person with reasonable ability fought to the bitter end in a lost battle."

Thanks to that, the frequency of wars stayed low. Because the winners suffered great losses as well, it took time to recover. Even for the dispute with Margrave Browig to have taken such shape might have been an act to evade major losses appearing in case it came to a real war.

"We will continue sniping magicians. Wilma. That guy over there." (Wendelin)

"Got it." (Wilma)

I'm searching for magicians with the binoculars, but Wilma confirms them easily with her naked eyes since she has a good eyesight.

"Recently, my eyes got even better." (Wilma)

Given that her body is constantly strengthened due to the Hero Syndrome, her physical ability has grown all the more after her mana increased. A part of that seems to be her eyesight and hearing as well. It's a mysterious phenomenon. Wilma said that her five senses got sharper.

"The power output has greatly fallen." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san confirmed that the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] that spread over the rebel army had weakened quite a bit.

"Wouldn't one usually cancel it and attack?"

"That's why he's an idiot, that General Classen."

They considerably lowered the distance to us. I think that they should attack after cancelling the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] for the rest of the way.

If the remaining magicians can act freely, they should be able to destroy the walls and palings as well as kill quite a few soldiers.

"It's probably because their losses are low at the present."

"Well, they suffered major losses among the magicians though."

There are few casualties, but the majority of them are magicians. Since he lets his precious magicans die after blocking their movements, General Classen is incompetent after all.

"Duke Nürnberg, he's capable, isn't he?" (Ina)

"Who knows." (Wendelin)

Even if he was capable as Ina says, he might have had to compromise quite a bit to obtain the support of the central's imperial army. When we were continuing to snipe magicians while brooding over such things, the war situation finally changed.

Suddenly sounds like things bursting were audible all at once from the Earl Mizuho Country's National Army at the left wing.

"What are those?"

"No way, did they complete [Magic Guns]?" (Alfons)

I understood from the word [Magic Guns] Alfons mentioned while being surprised.

Since the Earl Mizuho Country possesses a Japanese-styled culture range from around the Warring States period to Edo period, they probably developed something like matchlocks which fire bullets with mana.

"First line change! Second line to the front!"

Once I looked at the rebel army's left wing confronting Earl Mizuho Country's national forces, their advance guard was in a state of complete destruction.

At the moment the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] became weak thanks to us, they attacked the soldiers and pierced them with bullets that were fired with mana.

Moreover, it seems like the shooting interval of the [Magic Guns], different from matchlocks, is short. As it seems to be alright to just put the bullet in the gun barrel with a pre-load style, and since the mana is provided by an embedded magic gem, it's excelling in its rapid-fire ability more than the gunpowder one.

Because the gun barrel heats up after shooting around five times, they seem to swap with the next relief personnel once that happens. Due to that highly-efficient new weapon, the rebel army, which was confronted with it all of a sudden, became greatly disturbed. However, as there hasn't been any orders for retreat, the rebel army's left wing continues to advance while pointlessly increasing its casualties.

"Earl-sama, the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] vanished, no?" (Burkhart)

"Yes." (Wendelin)

They finally cancelled the [Wide-Area Magic Barrier] in order to let the remaining magicians move freely. Burkhart-san was bound to notice that. Once he matched his eyeline with Alfons, a red flag was raised at the central troop headquarters.

Upon the flag signalling the start of our side's attack, arrows and spells are relentlessly fired at the rebel army which got closer. With the rebel army starting to retaliate as well, it finally has reached the state of a full-scale mortal battle between both sides.

The rebel army continues to attack and advance to take this battlefield encampment. Our allied forces are trying to prevent that. There seem to be many casualties among the rebel army which is the offensive side, but the other side has still magicians left.

"The seventh watchtower was completely destroyed! There's a great number of killed and wounded!" (???)

"Battalion Leader Vogel died in action! Company Commander Linz has taken over command!" (???)

Our allies' casualties are reported one after the other, but it's not possible for us to go assist them.

Intermediate-levelled and elementary-levelled magicians have been deployed there in fixed intervals. Due to our side's sniping, we have the upper hand in quality and number of magicians.

We have to protect the troop headquarters. It's wrong if we don't assist in crushing the military forces in front. We didn't have any leeway in our first war with battles to the death.

"Earl-sama, don't use too big spells." (Burkhart)

"Roger." (Wendelin)

Creating small-scaled [Wind Cutters] and [Fire Balls], I fire them at the rebel army's soldiers who are trying to get across the stone wall one after the other.

Though they die by getting burned or torn to pieces, I can't go easy on them. After all it will be the end after I get killed once we lose.

"We are overall superior, aren't we?" (Wendelin)

Three hours after the attack of the rebel army began, there were countless numbers of enemy soldiers collapsed before our eyes. I haven't counted it accurately, but it's doubtlessly losses reaching into the thousands.

Several hundred casualties appeared among our allies as well, but because of their brute force approach after the number of magicians had decreased on their side as attackers, the rebel army's losses are enormous.

"Even General Claussen can't retreat anymore at this point in time, I guess."

Suddenly a [Fire Ball] comes flying in front of my eyes.

They probably tried to turn the tables with a single lucky sniping attack, but its power is low. It's easily stopped by Burkhart-san.

"It's that guy." (Wendelin)

"Yes!" (Katharina)

Katharina releases [Wind Cutters] aiming at the magician.

The first strike was repelled by his [Magic Barrier], however next I fired a bullet with magic, pierced his head and he collapsed.

I should have definitely killed him.

"Is that spell a reproduction of [Magic Guns]?" (Katharina)

"That's right." (Wendelin)

Since I don't know the structure of a gun and such, I'm only firing a magic bullet that had its front part squashed with mana.

The materials are metals like iron and some tungsten. Recently I became able to find other metals than iron and copper with [Detection], but since I don't know the methods of using chrome, nickel, bauxite and such, I simply stored them away after using [Extraction]. It seems that the power of a gun will rise if you use rifling, but I don't know whether the magic guns got such contrivance.

Even the other other party likely won't teach the details of their secret weapon they hid until now that easily.

"I want to learn it as well." (Katharina)

"It's a magic that can't be used for anything but killing people though." (Wendelin)

"That might be necessary from now on as well." (Katharina)

As Katharina says, in front of us there are gross corpses piling up.

Without the rebel army stopping its attack even though they have suffered losses in the thousands, a part of our allies is already piercing the knights and soldiers of the rebel army, who have climbed the stone wall, with spears.

"There's no end to it, is there?" (Erwin)

"Seems so." (Haruka)

Even Eru and Haruka borrowed reserve spears from Ina, climbed the stone wall and started to make the enemy soldiers fall off.

"Commanding officer discovered." (Wilma)

Wilma continues to snipe with her iron bow aiming for commanding officers.

"I wonder, is Elise alright?" (Wendelin)

Unable to go and see her at all, I become worried about Elise who is continuing to treat the injured in the rear.

"Elise-sama is fine because she's strong." (Wilma)

"I see." (Wendelin)

Wilma, who is idolizing her, swept away my worries while using her bow.

"However, it's strange, you know..." (Wendelin)

The rebel army's offensive lasted for around six hours by now.

Close to 10.000 corpses were piled up already. Thanks to that, it has become easier for the enemy army to climb the stone walls. Even though they are overwhelmingly disadvantaged going by the loss ratio, they devotedly attack without stopping.

"That's simple. It's because the main force consists of the prince-elector lords' feudal armies."

With their lord being held hostage, they are unable to retreat.

Since failure is connected to punishment for their lords, they are unreasonably attempting to take this field encampment even if they have to sacrifice themselves to harm their opponents.

"Is that the reason for General Claussen to act as the supreme commander?"

From his point of view that equals to that of an appointed central noble belonging to the military faction, it doesn't hurt him at all no matter how many feudal armies of other nobles are run through.

Moreover, although General Classen is an authority of the imperial army, he's also an incompetent person. Duke Nürnberg's dictatorship will be strengthened by judging him if he fails. If the military forces of the prince-electors are killed, it will be simple to gain total control over their territories.

"Is he making us get rid of the prince-electors' military forces...?"

The prince-electors themselves are hostages, but since they are in charge on paper, they will be judged after being forced to take responsibility for the defeat. It's probably a scenario where their territories will be confiscated and absorbed by Duke Nürnberg.

"That's why they can't retreat at any cost, I suppose."

This mountain of corpses surpassing a 10.000 is the result of that.

A large amount of arrows and spells are fired by both sides. Earl Mizuho Country's national army fires their magic guns continuously.

Our allies' casualties amount to around 1.000, but that's owed to Elise and the others of the healing corps doing their best with us being the defending side.

The enemy army suffers increasing damage because they get targeted at the times they try to have their wounded fall back to the rear.

"Will it plunge into a night warfare, I wonder?"

"I'd like to avoid that if possible." (Alfons)

"Why?"

"It might be possible if it's Duke Nürnberg's army, but I want to focus on precaution at night." (Alfons)

Seeing that he was aiming for an usurpation of the imperial throne through a rebellion, it won't be strange for him to have imposed such training on his feudal army, is what Alfons is probably thinking.

To begin with, it seems that Duke Nürnberg's army is famous for being powerful.

"In that case we have to settle it quickly."

"It's necessary to shoot General Classen for that. Can you do that?" (Alfons)

Since their losses are great, General Classen has gone quite far towards the frontline and is urging on the soldiers vigorously as if he has gone mad.

However, on both his sides there were two treasured high level magicians. It was difficult to snipe General Classen with magic because they gave their undivided attention to his protection. They have deployed a firm [Magic Barrier] protecting only them and General Classen. It's not possible to break it that easily.

"It's possible if they use their mana to the degree of running dry, but..." (Wendelin)

Since one doesn't know what might happen on the battlefield, you want to preserve a certain extent of mana if possible.

"Sorry, but please do it." (Alfons)

"Got it. You heard him." (Wendelin)

"He's a useless general who is lazing around in the rear!" (Armstrong)

Once I give the signal, Doushi, who threw rocks at the enemy army out of boredom, flings a huge, mana-charged megalith at Classen's group which was several hundred meters away from us.

"He's skilful to throw it that far, isn't he?" (Luise)

"Luise, listen up and hurry!" (Wendelin)

"Hitting them isn't that difficult, but..." (Luise)

In addition Luise starts to throw stones, though they are not as big as that of Doushi. Ina consecutively throws her reserve spears and Wilma rapidly fires iron arrows.

As their aim is accurate, they reach General Classen's location one after the other, but all of it ends up getting repelled by the [Magic Barrier] cast by his two guarding magicians.

"Katharina!" (Wendelin)

"Yes!" (Katharina)

However, those are just decoys.

Immediately following, I fire several bullets with magic while attaching strong [Boosts] to them. Furthermore, matching my timing, Katharina improved them by piling up [Boosts] onto them as well.

All of a sudden it's an impossible stunt, but I believe it to be great that we incidentally practised it before.

The several bullets gain an absurd penetrating force and head towards General Classen's group.

* * *

"It doesn't how many attacks you pile up, in front of us brothers's [Impregnable Fortress] and [Solid Wall]!"

"Older Brother! It's bad!"

No matter how strong the shield, if it's attacked by an offensive force exceeding its defence, it will break.

Their [Magic Barrier] is penetrated at several points by small bullets. They penetrate the two magicians' and General Classen's bodies in succession. Moreover, as the bullets have rotation added onto them, they are also acting as dum-dum ammunition used in interpersonal combat.

With a great part of their bodies' intestines gouged out, the three fell over while vomiting blood.

"General Classen!"

"The Supreme Commander!"

Unrest spreads to the soldiers who were in the vicinity. It propagates like a wave to the entire army.

Even if he was an incompetent Supreme Commander, he was still their Supreme Commander. Once he was killed, their moral naturally deteriorated.

"Retreat!"

Additionally, weak points appeared due to the enemy army being a mix of several feudal armies which didn't do combined training until now. A part of the commanding officers began to retreat on their own volition.

Once that happened, it likely wouldn't take much time for this flow to spread to their entire army.

"Alfons, I'm out of mana." (Wendelin)

"I'm wasted as well." (Katharina)

Katharina and I sit down back to back on the spot. It's not going as far as us fainting, but we probably won't be able to use magic decently anymore.

"You saved us. With this it's our victory. We will dispatch the pursuit unit!" (Alfons)

"What's the danger of an ambush?"

"None. We will also take along magicians who can use [Detection]." (Alfons)

"Be careful of [Hide] magic."

Since it's a war after all, there doesn't seem to exist graceful behaviour.

Alfons gave the order to pursuit to the knight order he preserved.

"Is pursuit necessary?" (Katharina)

"Yes, it is."

From the point of view of Katharina who's aiming to become a noble, she seems to consider the act of pursuing an enemy, who shows their back, as inappropriate for a noble.

"A pursuit is the best way to decrease the enemy numbers. It's because they have turned their backs on us."

Besides, if they manage to get away, the will reorganize and come facing us again. Decreasing the enemy numbers when it's possible to do so is the very best method to decrease the future losses of our allies.

"Is what I'm saying whitewashing?" (Katharina)

"I think usually it's fine like that." (Wendelin)

"It can't be helped because it's a war now?" (Katharina)

"If you don't consider it like that, you won't be able to kill people, right?" (Wendelin)

"I guess so..." (Katharina)

We have killed a great numbers of monsters until now, but genuinely killing people in front of us happened after we came to the empire.

We killed soldiers in order to run away from the coup d'état forces and today we have also killed a large number of enemies who have made an onslaught.

At the time of fighting I didn't think about anything while in a trance, but once I look at the blood-stained corpses spreading below my eyes, I can't stop trembling at all. Since even I'm like that, it's probably even more painful for a woman.

Before I noticed, I was sitting down while embracing the four of them.

"I'm sorry. It's because of our circumstances." (Alfons)

"It's a job after all. Though it's no good for a mercenary to tremble after seeing corpses." (Wendelin)

"No, it seems to be the same for me as well..." (Alfons)

Once I look properly, Alfons' fingers are trembling as well.

Among the soldiers in the vicinity there were some who are standing by changing their spears into walking sticks out of exhaustion. There are also some who are calling out to their injured war buddies while crying.

The only ones full of spirit are probably the pursuit units which sortied after getting their preparations in order.

"Even that's an empty liveliness. After all there's not a single person who's experienced in real wars."

It's for the sake of obtaining rewards and success in life by raising deeds of arms. While persuading themselves like this, they departed to the front in high spirits.

But, in fact, it's inevitable for everyone to be frightened. People, who love to murder, rarely exist.

"Vel, I will go as well." (Erwin)

"Is it fine?" (Wendelin)

"I still haven't gotten used to horses. I won't go too far." (Erwin)

Even Eru probably wants to obtain deeds of arms here.

Because the Earl Baumeister household grew too much, people, who are criticizing Eru for being a man with nothing more than connections, increased as well.

"Please pardon my yet unknown return." (Erwin)

"Take care. Besides, you are also together with Haruka-san." (Wendelin)

"It's a bloody date, I guess." (Erwin)

"Don't say that. Then, I shall head out as well." (Haruka)

Eru seems to join the pursuit unit of the Earl Mizuho Country's national forces due to his relation with Haruka.

While holding up his new Mizuho katana that was created for him, he departed to pursue together with the members of the aforementioned [Battou Unit]. It appears that Haruka is also next to him.

"Earl Baumeister, it's fine for you to take a break now." (Alfons)

"Is it really?" (Wendelin)

"For today, that is." (Alfons)

Only the pursuit units are now participating in the battle. It seems they are now only sending out scouts in case of a night attack by another enemy army and a counterattack by the escaping enemy army.

"Our side will take care of cleaning up the battlefield. There's no way that we can exhaust Earl Baumeister's party, who is an effective war potential, with such work." (Alfons)

"Got it. Shall we go to Elise's place?" (Wendelin)

I don't believe that I, who has no mana left, would be useful in any way, but I wanted to see Elise's face anyway.

Although it might be a victory, I don't feel overy good about it.

Entrusting Alfons' guarding to Burkhart-san, we retired to the rear.

Chapter 86: Therese-sama appears at the frontline

"Frank! Stay firm!" (???)

"Uuhh... Mother..." (Frank)

A few hours after the gruesome battle ended, I helped with healing at the field hospital where Elise was at.

Since I had run out of mana, I was forced to recover it to some extent with a nap of several hours. Afterwards I was assigned to relieve the great number of injured by making use of the magic gems I had on hand. Since I had not practised healing magic overly much due to relying on Elise, there's no way for me to use all the magic gems.

At any rate, as I ended up giving priority on the healing, there were some among the injured for whom I might have not been in time. Like this, I now encountered the scene of comrades raising their voices to encourage their friend whose consciousness was hazy.

The youth, who was close in age to me, was struggling against the looming death.

"Earl-sama! Please save Frank!" (???)

"......" (Wendelin)

There were very many who I wanted to save, but the mana I recovered by napping had already run out and I had used quite a few of the magic gems as well. Given that I don't know what will happen down the road, I was strictly ordered by Alfons to preserve a set amount of magic gems.

It's regrettable, but we have no other choice but to bet on his life force.

"Sorry, but my mana has....." (Wendelin)

"No way..... Frank! Stay strong!" (???)

When I look at the youth about to die any time now, only feelings of guilt are welling up within me.

It's not just about me being unable to save him, but it would also become unfair if other wounded wouldn't be saved if I helped him.

What if there was another attack by an enemy army at the moment I used up the magic gems? Although it was pathetic, I had no other choice but to abandon him ruthlessly. It's a coldhearted calculation with regards to the battlefield.

"Dear....." (Elise)

"I'm sorry." (Wendelin)

Even Elise who stands next to me, has already run out of mana.

She exhausted her magic gems and even the mana in the ring I gave her as a present before.

Once I looked properly, her priestess garb was sullied with blood as she was apparently giving her undivided attention to medical treatment.

"Frank! You definitely have spirit!" (???)

"Aah..... My deceased mother has....." (Frank)

The seriously wounded youth called Frank appears to have already lost his mother. Him seeing an illusion of her probably indicates that the time for him to ascend to heaven was drawing near.

His young comrades continue calling out to him, but his consciousness gradually becomes distant. Frank's death was now around the corner.

"Sorry. If I had been able to use stronger healing magic..." (Katharina)

"No, the magic one can use depends on the individual. It's not your fault, Katharina." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin-san....." (Katharina)

This is simply inevitable since there's suitability and unsuitability.

Katharina had run out of mana as well. The best her healing magic can achieve is to heal minor injuries.

"Dear..." (Elise)

"Wendelin-san..." (Katharina)

All three of us were filled with feelings of regret. I had no other means but to simply embrace both their shoulders and console them.

"Mother..." (Frank)

"Frank!" (???)

At the time when I considered it hopeless beyond doubt, that person appeared at the best possible timing.

Though he doesn't look like a protagonist, he's a person who seems to always be present in the middle of the turmoil.

"The injured are here, huh!?" (Armstrong)

Doushi, who showed up, had preserved his mana as a strategic option. Furthermore, although no one asked him to, he participated in the pursuit battle.

"Doushi?" (Wendelin)

"Uncle-sama?" (Elise)

"We will talk later!" (Armstrong)

It's unknown why Doushi participated in the pursuit battle.

He vigorously rushed in riding a dosanko horse while holding in one hand the hexagon staff that's often used by people of the Earl Armstrong household, which they obtained from somewhere.

Due to the sudden event, Alfons was dumbfounded, and yet, Doushi has succeeded in returning safe and sound. However, his robe was blood-stained making Elise draw back.

Hasn't he accumulated stress in various ways because his fighting style, which used three-dimensional movements, was impossible due to the restrictions on movement type spells?

"Youngster! Stay strong!" (Armstrong)

Doushi had learned [Holy] healing magic, but he has to embrace the other party for it to show any effect.

Doushi resolutely spread out both his arms while being wrapped in bluish-white [Holy} light.

"Please hurry..." (Wendelin)

'What will it be? Even though it's a very great deed of him, his appearance is...'

"Umm... Please go ahead, uncle-sama." (Elise)

From the point of view of Elise, who grew up in the church with its prohibition of homosexual love, something like her uncle, she should respect, hugging a young boy is probably a nightmare-like view. However, this is also for the sake of saving the young boy's life. Without thinking about anything unnecessary, she also requested Doushi to heal him.

Once Doushi embraces the young boy while emitting the [Holy] bluish-white light from his entire body, the boy's wounds vanish gradually.

Although it doesn't work unless he hugs the other party as usual, its effect was exceedingly splendid because of his terrific mana quantity.

"Uuh... Mother." (Frank)

The young boy, who was about to die any time soon, had his consciousness slowly return due to the effects of Doushi's healing. However, there's just one pitiful truth.

"Frank-san, as for the mother that's embracing you..." (Elise)

"Noo! You must not say iiit!!" (Wendelin)

The serious Elise talked about reality, but she can't be allowed say it in this situation.

"That young boy was saved. Any further than that is....." (Wendelin)

"Understood." (Elise)

Doushi has saved the almost-dead boy with his healing magic.

If seen from the standpoint of church officials like Elise, it's likely a miracle they would want to record in a book, but going by the impression given by the scene, it's a view one wants to seal away in one's memories. That's because a muscled old man had hugged a young boy with all his might.

I have no doubt that it will be treated as prohibited item by the church, if a record of that is left behind.

"Doushi, if only you could use normal healing magic..." (Wendelin)

"Yes..." (Elise)

Completely discarding the previous sorrow, Elise and I can't leak anything but a dry laughter.

And, even for the young boy Frank who was saved, disaster struck.

"Mother?" (Frank)

"Hmm. I'm not your mother, it's great that you are alive." (Armstrong)

"........" (Frank)

It's probably natural for the young boy to become speechless.

Even though the figure of his deceased mother popped up in his mind at the time when his consciousness was hazy due to being close to death, he is embraced by a hard-faced, bright blue yakuza, an embodiment of muscles, once he opens his eyes.

At the same time Doushi showed the young boy his smile, however the boy doesn't take it by face value since it's Doushi after all. From his point of view, he might regard Doushi as muscled death god.

He stayed stiff for a while.

"Haard~~~! Mother is haaard~~~!" (Frank)

It seems he was unable to endure the reality that befell his own body. He raised an ear-shattering scream.

"Ahahaha! If you are this lively, you are already fine, I guess!" (Armstrong)

"Say, Richter! Konrad! What's this about?!" (Frank)

Frank, who recovered from his injuries, asked his nearby friends, but as there was absolutely no way for them to say anything with Doushi in front of them, his friends just lowered their sights.

"You were saved by Doushi-sama." (Richter)

Just that brief comment, one of them simply tells him the truth in a low voice.

"Frank, isn't it all fine since you were saved?" (Konrad)

"That's it, lad! As long as you are alive, you can enjoy life for a long time to come yet!" (Armstrong)

Even the deeply emotional scene gets messed up by Doushi. The saved boy receives compassionate looks from the other wounded.

However, they realize their situation right away.

The matter of them also getting hugged by Doushi right away while screaming soundlessly.

"Doushi, is your mana all right?" (Wendelin)

"I have used almost none of it at the pursuit. I simply killed the enemies with this staff after catching up to them from behind." (Armstrong)

"I see..." (Wendelin)

Putting aside whether it's right or wrong for a magician to go out for a pursuit to kill the enemy soldiers with a hexagon staff, it was also a fact that many of the injured were saved thanks to Doushi.

Though it's correct to assume that all of them screamed in their minds while being embraced by him.

* * *

"Passing away just like that or getting saved by being hugged by Doushi; even though it's natural to choose the latter, it's doubtful on an emotional level, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

"The sole salvation is the fact of no feelings of love being involved." (Katharina)

"Don't mention such cruel thing for no special reason, Katharina-jou-chan." (Burkhart)

"Dear teacher, I'm already a married woman..." (Katharina)

"Oops, sorry. However, still, how do you feel about getting embraced by him as an adult woman?" (Burkhart)

"I will make sure to not get injured, and even if it happens, I will leave it to Elise-san or Wendelin-san." (Katharina)

"That's an extremely normal reply, isn't it?" (Burkhart)

"Teacher, just what do you want to hear from me?" (Katharina)

The next day after the battle took place, I, Burkhart-san and Katharina continued chatting while repairing and expanding the field encampment.

Although the wall was useful for defending against the enemy soldiers; since it turned into a situation where it had an insufficient height due to the corpses piling up on the other side, we were requested to add more height to it by Alfons.

We have also been asked to increase the number and depth of the moats against cavalry units, but that has been scheduled for tomorrow and the days after.

The reason for that is the large quantity of corpses of the enemy army currently scattered there. They are getting buried by the soldiers and hired local residents. As it's currently winter, the progress of decay is slow, but we can't leave such huge amount of corpses alone forever.

The other magicians, who participated in the battle, dug a hole and after taking a memo of those, whose identity they could affirm, stripped off the usable items and tossed them into the hole. Scattering oil and burnable things at the end, a magician set the hole on fire to cremate the corpses within.

There's no way that something like dealing with corpses exceeding 10.000 in numbers will finish that easily if you don't decrease their numbers by cremating them. Also, the act of looking for spoils of war from the corpses; since this is also a part of the reward and war expenditures, it was normally carried out without whitewashing it.

Though it wasn't an overly nice view to behold. The stench of corpses burning in front of the stone wall that was built around the field encampment is disgusting. But even this was the reality of a battlefield.

"Even so, I'd like to refrain from joining those corpses by losing." (Burkhart)

"It's because you are newly-wed, eh?" (Wendelin)

"Me as well as Earl-sama, right? By the way, what about Eru-boy?" (Burkhart)

"He's on a date, isn't he?" (Wendelin)

Given that the guards were newly arranged by Alfons, there's no need for Eru and Haruka to devote themselves to guarding that much. Accordingly, he swiftly immersed himself in training trying to learn katana techniques. With Haruka in the role as his teacher, she's training together with him.

"I appreciate your efforts for continuing the pursuit battle."

With the pursuit carried out by the elites of Mizuho national army's Battou Unit and Duke Philip household's feudal army, around 20.000 soldiers of the 40.000 soldiers of the rebel army were turned into corpses.

There were wounded and prisoners as well, but those don't amount more than 2.000. It might be because their lords would get executed if they returned after losing and because it might also result in harm towards their families if it's just them surrendering, but there was an endless number of soldiers who were killed after fighting to the bitter end.

Because our allies had priority in healing, there were many wounded who ended up dying yesterday. Due to the excessive amount of corpses, everyone was in a state of coping with it while being weary.

"It looks like quite a few of our allies died as well, doesn't it?"

"Yes."

The casualties of our allies were 2.567 in total. If you consider the kill ratio, we have an overwhelming advantage, but this time's rebel army wasn't compromised of elites either. Disposable military forces have caused more than 10% losses to our side.

Duke Nürnberg likely won't consider his side to be at a disadvantage at all.

"Meaning Alfons-san is greatly troubled?"

"That's how it is."

We cannot help it in a real war since we will get killed if we cut corners, but the more soldiers die, the more will the empire's national power decline. Even for Therese that's probably an unresolved problem that gives her a headache.

"Because we will have to fight, an expansion of the stone wall is preferrable." (Katharina)

"That's right, isn't it..." (Wendelin)

Because we finished the requested repairs and expansion, we withdraw to the rear next and cultivate the wasteland.

That doesn't mean that we are colonisers, but it was for the sake of growing a certain kind of crop.

"Vel!" (Luise)

"We waited for you." (Ina)

Ina and Luise, who helped by tilling the wasteland site with magic and planting seeds, show up.

"What kind of seeds are you planting?" (Wendelin)

"It's idiot daikon after all." (Luise)

"This is the actual produce." (Ina)

Ina shows a large turnip with a size to the extent of Sakurajima daikon.

(T/N: The largest variety of daikon on the world)

Even though it's name is idiot daikon, it actually seems to belong to the family of turnips.

"It looks like this will become fodder for the horses."

Due to its toughness, it's unappetizing if humans eat it, but it easily grows on any kind of wasteland. A certain extent of water was necessary, but we dealt with this by digging a large quantity of water wells.

It's apparently called idiot daikon because 『Any kind of idiot can grow them』.

"I hear its place of origin is Earl Mizuho Country. It was produced by selective breeding of turnips." (Luise)

"Aahh, okay." (Wendelin)

I quietly listened to Luise's explanation.

Once I hear daikon, I get the urge to eat an oden vendor's pickled daikon radish. Recalling even the combination of whitebait and grilled Pacific saury with grated daikon, I was absorbed in my deliberations how I should try to obtain it from Earl Mizuho Country.

"They will be ready for harvest in two months after sowing the seeds. They are also resilient against cold. They are fine with wastelands, too. Their only flaw is them tasting nastily, I guess?" (Luise)

There doesn't seem to be any problem with the horses eating it.

After harvesting the idiot daikon in the wastelands, next buckwheat, foxtail millet, barnyard millet and such will be grown by planting seeds in soil with horse dung mixed in. By doing this gradually, the soil will improve so that wheat can be grown.

"Isn't it possible to cultivate it in the Baumeister Earldom as well?" (Wendelin)

"That seems hopeless. They appear to be weak against heat." (Ina)

Ina, who was planting seeds, replies to my question.

"That's regrettable, I think" (Wendelin)

"Rather than using such roundabout method, I think your way of cultivating new land is much faster, Vel." (Ina)

"No, not at all. Even I don't cultivate new land that fast." (Wendelin)

Since the majority of the soldiers work as farmers to begin with, I think we should leave the colonization to them.

There are also things such as digging wells and constructing roads for me.

"It's not that different from the time when I was in the Baumeister Earldom." (Katharina)

"This can't be helped, though you have to add killing people to it. It looks like this will drag on for a while."

"Yes, it's completely a war of attrition."

We are fighting against opponents who don't consider suddenly losing 40.000 troops as damage. I guess that's probably because we can't take the gamble of invading the imperial capital to turn the tables in one swoop.

"That's why we are growing feed for the horses, right?"

It's likely for the sake of lowering the burden on the supply. Since something like wheat isn't possible all of a sudden, we are substituting it with idiot daikon.

Even the field encampment is continuing to enlarge its function as a kind of defence fortification. Piling up wood and stones that were processed by magicians, they were in the middle of expanding the watchtowers and barracks.

"After all there's also a limit to a war of attrition. As expected, it's planned to somehow wrap things up within several months."

At that point Alfons shows up accompanied by Burkhart-san. Burkhart-san has been assigned as constant guard to him as the supreme commander.

"It seems that Therese will deploy the main army here."

"Did she gather allies to some degree?"

"Looks like it. Hey, Alfons-sama."

"With all northern lords and a majority of the northern lords in the east and west, the rest has either declared their neutrality or joined as individuals, right?"

Since the rebellion has split the empire into two factions, all decide whom to follow by judging which side will emerge as winner.

Except for the official stance, it's difficult for the nobles as well since it's no good if they don't truly join one side after deciding the winning side.

Just like in Sekigahara, they will lose their ranks in worst case if they make a mistake in their judgment.

(T/N: Sekigahara is a movie about the end of the Warring States period in Japan)

For the nobles, it should be quite the painful decision to make as it can result in the disappearance of their household that lasted for several thousand years.

"So, when will they come?"

If she leads the army as supreme commander, that alone will rise the morale of our allies, too. The degree of danger will go up as well, but it's not like she will be told to swing her sword at the front line.

At this point it's probably necessary for her to appear in the spotlight after resolving herself.

"It seems tomorrow early morning. I hear it's quite the large army."

"Roger."

On that day I wield magic to expand the field encampment.

* * *

Early morning of the next day, the military forces led by Therese showed up without problems.

"Although it was a defensive battle, making the enemy, who excelled in numbers, flee was definitely a great achievement, Alfons. Here's thy reward." (Therese)

"Ha!" (Alfons)

Therese, who was dressed in a more luxurious mithril-made chain mail than the one worn by Karla before, directly called out to Alfons who went ahead as her representative, and handed him a bag filled with gold coins.

"There are rewards for others as well, but these will be given afterwards." (Therese)

"Ha!" (Alfons)

Therese immediately sets up her headquarters in the fortress which was built by stacking up building stones. Moreover, gathering the lords and retainers there, she starts a simple war council.

"Did we defeat close to 20.000 soldiers? That's a great war progress." (Therese)

I guess it's natural to raise the morale by first praising them since a battle, where half of the rebel army was killed, is a rare, great war progress. However, it wasn't a situation where it was possible to be delighted without restraint.

"With us being the defending side, the difference in the quality of magicians became apparent." (Alfons)

Due to Alfons' remark, the looks of all the important people, including Therese, turn towards us.

"Quite a few of the enemy's magicians were defeated as well. However, the majority has been those who were employed by the prince-elector households."

Although she had apparently read the report in advance, Therese's expression was sorrowful.

"The difference in national power between the kingdom and the empire is continuing to increase. Don't thou agree, Earl Baumeister?" (Therese)

"Who knows? I'm just a mercenary." (Wendelin)

"No, I'm not blaming thee. I just felt jealous that thou live in Helmut Kingdom." (Therese)

As expected, Therese didn't address me as Wendelin as she usually does.

"Yet I only clawed my way up as eighth son of a poor noble." (Wendelin)

"Thou struggling is a downpour that became a blessed rain for the kingdom. Furthermore, the empire is exhausting its national power in a civil war. There's no other choice but to make it stop as soon as possible, and to enlarge our national power by including foreign trade as well. It's truly something that will take much effort." (Therese)

"In any case, currently I'm just a mercenary." (Wendelin)

If I raise achievements by participating as Earl Baumeister, it will become troublesome because the problem of rewarding me will appear.

"Is it possible for a single person to hold peerage and territory in both countries?" Due to that issue that had never happened between both countries since the dawn of history, it will very likely plunge the governments in chaos.

I will be quits by simply receiving money as mercenary, but I guess that's the most fortunate outcome for both sides.

"Anyway, it's something inconvenient for Duke Nürnberg." (Therese)

"What was the intention behind sending the previous enemy army of 40.000?" (Erwin)

Eru, who has been training his katana techniques together with Haruka recently, posed an unusually serious question.

I wonder whether he was able to obtain a bit of self-awareness as my retainer?

'Is he trying to show off his good points to Haruka?' (Wendelin)

Either way, I wanted to ask the same as well.

"Whether it's winning or losing, both bring profit to Duke Nürnberg."

If he was able to obtain a victory due to Therese's preparations being too late, the scales of the two parties confronting each other in the civil war would have likely inclined towards Duke Nürnberg's side.

It's not like only the Lan tribe lives in the territories of the northern lords. He could expect for there to be many people betraying their lords after seeing the difference in power.

"Even if he lost half the numbers due to the defeat, it's a win for him?" (Erwin)

"Well, you know, that's owed to the composition of those 40.000 troops." (Wendelin)

I explain my pet theory to Eru.

"They are organized from the troops of all the prince-electors, who are held hostage, and General Classen who possessed authority in the imperial army's centre although he's incompetent. No matter how many of them die, it won't hurt Duke Nürnberg." (Wendelin)

The troops have been dispatched upon the order of Duke Nürnberg, who has seized the empire's centre due to the coup d'état, and failed.

If he punishes them after blaming them for the failure of the operation that led to losing their military forces in the end, he can lower the prince-electors' power without doing anything himself.

"So, the prince-electors, who dispatched the troops, will get executed?" (Erwin)

"No, going by the information of our spies, General Classen had apparently his rank changed, but the rest has to pay penalties." (Therese)

The reason why Therese was delayed in coming here is probably because she was busy with the reconstruction of her information network without relying on magic and magic tools.

"It's because General Classen was killed in action. So the punishments were lenient, you say?"

"The family head and his successor of the Earl household were idiots after all. For Duke Nürnberg it was likely easy to punish them without any hesitation. Or rather, luckily he has also caused the debacle of losing half of the military forces."

"So, it's penalties for the other prince-elector households?"

"Losing a large amount of the retainers and soldiers who were their backbone, a penalty has been handed out for the operation's failure in the end. Apparently it has been often the case that the responsibility for defeat is connected to a penalty in the warring era. Since it's not that much of an injustice, they can't complain about it either." (Therese)

At the moment when their family head was taken prisoner, they likely lost the ability to refuse as well.

"So, cracks developed in the framework of the prince-elector households because there are also things such as assurances towards those killed in action?"

"I guess it's convenient for Duke Nürnberg. If they don't pay up, they will be compelled to compensate with territory and concessions. Formally it will be paid to the imperial government, but its current head is Duke Nürnberg after all." (Therese)

One might say that it's a method befitting Duke Nürnberg who is aiming for a centralized authoritarian rule.

"How dirty." (Erwin)

"It's just as Eru says, it's really nasty."

"Fortunately it looks like the members of the central's imperial family haven't been executed." (Therese)

Since there would be a rebellion by the imperial army and central's appointed nobles, if he did something like massacring the imperial family, it appears that he has limited it to house arrest at present.

If he advances that centralized authoritarian rule, the probability of them getting executed would get high though.

"Then, none of the prince-elector households will become our allies, huh?"

"No, Ansgar-dono, who's over there, joined our side." (Therese)

Therese introduces the finely-dressed young man who is next to her.

"I'm the young Duke Ansgar Helgar von Baden. I happened to have heard a lot of your fame, Earl Baumeister." (Ansgar)

As blonde-haired young man with an age around 20 years, he was a characteristic person with looks that made it apparent that he was a very well-bred young noble.

"Huh? Young Duke Baden-dono, it is?" (Wendelin)

If I remember correctly, his father, Duke Baden, should have run as candidate in the emperor election. I remember listening to his speech while rubbing my sleepy eyes.

"My father, Duke Baden, and a part of our chief retainers were arrested. However, we haven't dispatched any soldiers for those 40.000 soldiers strong military forces." (Ansgar)

The Baden Dukedom lies in the north-eastern part of the empire. There was the possibility of being attacked by Therese if they carelessly dispatched soldiers.

"The one who acted lawlessly first was Duke Nürnberg. Even if we temporarily side with him, I'm uneasy about the future. Our Duke Baden household will follow Therese-dono. Father and his chief retainers have to accept becoming the cornerstones of my Baden Dukedom." (Ansgar)

I guess he's saying that he will abandon them, but it can't be helped since that's not a problem only concerning parent and child either.

If he were unable to make such decision, he won't be able to become the family head of a prince-elector household, though it might be harsh to say so.

'However I guess it's wrong to ask him about it...' (Wendelin)

He will desert his one and only father. He shouldn't be able to do so calmly.

"The participation of the Duke Baden household will be a great help since it will even out the power balance." (Therese)

After chatting for a while, a dinner meeting that also served as introduction of the major nobles was held, and Therese explained her plans to everyone at that location.

"There will be a reorganization of the empire's nobles due to this rebellion." (Therese)

She doesn't announce it formally, but Therese, who opposes the rebel Duke Nürnberg, is a strong contender for becoming the next empress.

Urquhart the 17th, who was elected the other day, likely won't be able to accomplish his duty thanks to his unsightly way of getting captured, even if he's alive and gets rescued.

And, that next empress candidate states that a reorganization of the nobles will take place.

The Duke Nürnberg household, the perpetrators of the rebellion, will naturally lose their rank. In addition there will be some, who will lose their ranks or a part of their territory, and those, who will perish completely in the civil war albeit being influential families.

The territory that will become free in such manner, will be naturally distributed to the winners. Supporting Therese is a declaration equal to obtaining that privilege.

'Well, that's only natural, I guess.' (Wendelin)

No matter whether it's a rebellion, people who work for free don't exist in the first place, much less to say about nobles.

"Sure enough I don't know when Duke Nürnberg will come attacking with his entire army, but that battle will be decisive." (Therese)

After dinner, the nobles returned to their respective camps.

While continuing the expansion of the field encampment and the colonization, we are waiting for Duke Nürnberg's troops going north. If Duke Nürnberg doesn't defeat Therese, he won't be able to unify the empire. He is bound to come north without fail.

If the situation changes, the strategy might change as well, but at present that's the plan.

"So, this is thy house, Wendelin?" (Therese)

"Yes. I built it myself." (Wendelin)

Since the other nobles were gone after dinner, Therese called me Wendelin once again and furthermore intruded upon my house.

So far as it goes, she has an excuse. With it being about confirming the reward for us, it's plain obvious for anyone to see that it's just a pretext.

The reason is because Burkhart-san left since he has his duty as guard of Alfons and Doushi ended up going out somewhere as well.

"It's remarkably luxurious." (Therese)

A mercenary basically pays for his own expenses on the necessities of life.

Tentatively we have been given a plot of land by Alfons and piling up building stones, which were quarried from abandoned mines and such, it has become a house with quite the size.

For temperature regulation it uses an air-conditioner and something like a heater magic tool instead of a fireplace. It's also fully equipped with a bath and a kitchen.

After the interior design of the house, such as the plastering, was completed carefully, furniture and other magic tools were installed. Therese was apparently astonished by its extravagance.

"Those are magic tools I've never seen." (Therese)

"They are excavated items after all." (Wendelin)

The air-conditioner and the heater are items we discovered in the Demon Forest ruins.

"Mine residence has stoves and fireplaces. Even so, it's still far richer than those of the soldiers. Can I get thou to sell me the magic tools?" (Therese)

"I'm sorry, but I need the permission from the kingdom for that." (Wendelin)

Although the fortune of the Demon Forest's magic tools had been bought by the magic tool guild using up a large amount of money, it was expected to take quite some time for them being able to mass produce them. Even if the items are present as patterns, they are magic tools that can't be reproduced that easily.

"Good grief. It's possible that the empire will become at disadvantage regarding magic tools as well." (Therese)

"How about Earl Mizuho Country?"

"The trend for self-reliance is high over there. They won't invade, but follow their own path. Once we win in the civil war, I might bind them by making them a prince-elector household." (Therese)

There was a possibility that they would be occupied by the empire, but Therese is probably believing that there are benefits in integrating them.

"By the way, there will be a remuneration for thee." (Therese)

According to the contract, we will basically be paid with money.

The workload from killing to construction of the field encampment, well digging, cultivation of fields, healing of the wounded and such has been authorized and recorded by Alfons. Based on the market price, an amount of money will be added to the total sum.

Even at this point in time, it had already become a substantial amount of money.

"Also, there is the license for trading between Earl Mizuho Country and Baumeister Earldom, and..." (Therese)

There's the permission to take minerals from the abandoned mines located in the Great Sorbid Wastelands.

Of course, since this had been carried out in the past by the magicians of the empire, I smoothly received the approval to this condition.

"Did thou procure plenty of gold and silver?" (Therese)

"So-so." (Wendelin)

"So-so? That's great then." (Therese)

It's an advantage to have a lot mana at such times. After all I can freely extract ore from veins that are impossible to mine with the current technology of the empire with magic, like those located several hundred meters below the abandoned mines.

The amount of gold and silver I collected until now was so much that I wouldn't be troubled even if wasn't paid a reward.

'Certainly, ignorance is bliss. I guess they can't reach such underground veins anyway.' (Wendelin)

If they detected it, it would have been mined a long time ago already.

"I have heard from Alfons, but it seems that thou participated actively." (Therese)

"More or less."

"There's no need to be humble. I have received a report that several high-level magicians were part of the enemy's front line. They were people said to be as remarkable in the empire as the four brothers some time ago." (Therese)

I think that I'm an unrefined magician that only copes with firm defence power and mighty emission type spells in battle. It will still take a long time for me to reach the level of master, I believe.

However, among the empire's magicians there were many who were more unrefined and unexperienced in handling things impromptu than me who can rely on the fact of having mana. That's why I feel like they were crushed one-sidedly by Katharina, Burkhart-san and Doushi without even looking at me.

"The role model of an empire's magician is Doushi." (Therese)

"In other words, being specialised in something?" (Wendelin)

"Indeed. I hear that it was said by a renown magician in the old days: If you set your heart on one thing, that magic will become strong." (Therese)

I don't believe that to be wrong.

As a matter of fact, if you settle on one type of magic, the efficiency of mana consumption and its power will rise. However, there's no guarantee that you will definitely become powerful by doing that.

If one persists in it to the the degree of Doushi, they might become the strongest, but for a magician like me it's better to possess a variety of knowledge to handle things on the go. After all the only thing one can say is that it depends on the person themselves though.

"Many magicians will die from now on." (Therese)

If you go further, all of them will be imperial magicians, if they are killed by us, since it's a civil war within the empire. For Therese that's probably something headache-inducing.

"Even if I lament over it, it's inevitable. I have to hasten in bringing the civil war quickly to a close and proceed with reinforcing the empire's national power." (Therese)

"As first empress?" (Wendelin)

"In this situation, that's how it will play out. Besides, there's also the requirement that we can win against Duke Nürnberg." (Therese)

"I will go at it with the intention of winning. I don't want to die." (Wendelin)

Spare me from dying in such civil war. For that sake I'm even killing people which I don't actually want to do.

"That's a sound argument. Returning to the previous talk; there will be a special reward from me for thee who has obtained huge achievements." (Therese)

"You sleeping with me is not necessary." (Wendelin)

"Ooh! Wendelin, thou are a cold-hearted man. To not even pity me who is bound to inevitably become empress..." (Therese)

"Please look for a husband in your own country." (Wendelin)

"I agree with Wendelin-sama. Since you are the most likely candidate for becoming the next empress, Therese-sama, you should avoid a scandal with a man who has five wives already." (Elise)

Opening the bedroom's door which is located next to the living room where I was talking with Therese, Elise showed up in a negligee.

She likely took offence to Therese's suggestive seduction once again.

"Elise-dono, huh? Once I become empress, the selection of my husband will become complicated. It will be fine if you lend him to me for just a bit." (Therese)

"Borrowing a man, I don't think that your statement is befitting for you, a lady of the empire, at all though, Therese-sama..." (Elise)

"Even if I stick to being unmarried, I still want a child at least. I promise that I will definitely not reveal that it's Wendelin's seed." (Therese)

"That's sophistry, isn't it? Won't you announce it officially without any hesitation depending on the political circumstances?" (Elise)

Therese couldn't answer Elise's question.

"Therese-sama, you intend to seek asylum at the time when your defeat in this civil war is set in stone, right?" (Elise)

What if she had a relation to me at that time, and furthermore was even pregnant with my child? That child would possess the qualifications to succeed the Earl Baumeister household.

If Therese defected, she would be bound to also gather her retainers and family members. Based on my position, I would have to shelter them. There should be also many people who will have a successful career by becoming retainers.

And there's also the possibility that Therese and her faction would begin a political strife towards recapturing her native homeland within the kingdom.

Elise's guess shouldn't be that far from reality at all.

'Indeed, doing it with Therese will be more expensive than having sex with any kind of high-class prostitute.' (Wendelin)

Even if she became empress, there's the possibility that she would diplomatically demand something from the kingdom with the child as excuse. In short, Therese's seduction is that dangerous, I believe.

"Besides...." (Elise)

Elise continues talking while embracing my back.

I turn my awareness towards the sensation of her breasts that won't lose to Therese's either. While she's my wife, those are truly splendid.

"Wendelin-sama is busy every night." (Elise)

Once Elise said so, Ina and the others also showed up from the bedroom while wearing negligees.

"Therese-sama, cutting in line isn't very praiseworthy." (Ina)

"Five people or six people, I think it's the same either way though." (Therese)

"If it's within Helmut Kingdom, it's possible that such thing might happen in the future." (Ina)

Ina expresses her distinct will of refusal towards Therese.

"Therese-sama, creeping at night into Wendelin's bedroom will be impossible since Wilma and me are there." (Luise)

"Right. It would be best if you would narrow down your aim at Alfons or such, Therese-sama."

"Alfons doesn't view me as woman." (Therese)

Due to Wilma's and Luise's surveillance, Therese shouldn't be able to steal into my bedroom at night to make love. With her strength, no matter how much she struggles, she won't be able to win against Luise and Wilma.

"In that case, how about Duke Baden?"

"That person's first wife is the niece of His Majesty Urquhart the 17th. It will probably be turned down by the other side." (Therese)

It seems that usually there are political marriages between the prince-elector households and the imperial family.

"Apparently you have various difficulties, but please search within the empire." (Katharina)

"Katharina, your way of saying it is the cruelest!" (Therese)

"Even if you tell me that. Wendelin-san is busy after all. He has to embrace me to create a successor for my Waigel household." (Katharina)

No sooner than saying that, Katharina began to move towards the bedroom while pulling my arm.

"Thee, certainly thee are not...." (Therese)

"Yes. We have everyday kept Wendelin-sama company with everyone, but is there something wrong?" (Elise)

"Uuh!" (Therese)

Therese ended up drawing back a bit due to Elise replying with a serious look.

Since she has no experience of coping with that, just like Katharina in the past, she probably pulled back instinctively.

"Wendelin, are thou fine doing it every day?" (Therese)

"I'm all right with it." (Wendelin)

There was also the spell from master, but it's not like we are actually doing it every day. In short, it's important for Elise and the others to not give Therese a chance.

There are also many days where we talk until sleep or play games.

"Always with five people?" (Therese)

She has apparently no experience how to deal with it.

Therese spoke up with the usual firmness in her voice, but her expression looks like she's losing her head. She probably can't endure getting embarrassed in her mind.

"Do you want to join as sixth person, Therese-sama? Five or six people is the same, right?" (Elise)

Once Elise delivered the finishing blow, Therese reflexively left her seat after hearing that.

"No... Such a thing is... For my first time, I ask for it to be just the two of us..." (Therese)

Her tone becomes gradually incoherent.

At the end she declared this in a loud voice,

"I will definitely produce a fait accompli when it's just Wendelin and me!" (Therese)

Once she goes as far as saying that, she leaves the house as if trying to run away.

"Did we do something slightly pitiful to her?" (Wendelin)

"Dear, if we don't give at least this much of a clear explanation, a second and third Therese-sama will appear." (Elise)

"You are right, I guess..." (Wendelin)

Since there's already the case with Elise's and the others' mana increasing, there's no way that I can carelessly increase the number of wives and lovers.

"Dear, let's soon go to the bedroom." (Elise)

"Sure." (Wendelin)

Even if we go outside, there's no entertainment with there only being soldiers around. Swiftly secluding ourselves in the bedroom will quicken the recovery of mana and raise the probability of survival.

I think I will pretend that to be the case.

"If I think about it now, it was difficult for Dominique."

"Most recently I have such impression everyday."

"Is that some sort of escapism? It's different, no? For us children are necessary." (Luise)

"Since it's a war, it can't be helped that such emotions arise as well. Father-in-law said so before." (Wilma)

"Wilma-san, you know it well." (Katharina)

"Should I erase the evidence on top of the bed with the [Purification] spell...?" (Wendelin)

* * *

The next morning, while entering the bath together, we chatted with each other as if forgetting about the disastrous scene on top of the bed.

Chapter 87: Duel with the Sis-con Samurai

"Ei! Tou!" (Erwin)

When I left the house together with Elise and the others after dressing ourselves in the early morning, Eru swung a katana enthusiastically in a space that is equivalent to a garden.

Having obtained Mizuho clothes before anyone noticed, his appearance now looks like that of a foreign swordsman. In my eyes his movements of swinging the katana started to look quite good. Though that's as far as it goes, as for the judgment of an amateur. Even Haruka, who's coaching him, didn't say anything in particular and gazed at his form.

However, as expected of a beautiful samurai girl, she looks good by just standing there. It's also good that Eru's expression doesn't break into a foppish grin.

"Oi~~, Eru." (Wendelin)

"Vel? So, how's my katana aptitude?" (Erwin)

"So-so?" (Wendelin)

I'd like him to pardon me from giving an accurate comment as amateur.

I don't have any talent in using a katana. I have already given up on the path of swordsmanship a long time ago and don't practise it either. If I had such time, I would rather spend it on training my magic or archery as that would be more efficient, I think.

"Even though things may appear this way, it gives off quite the good vibe." (Haruka)

"Is that so?" (Wendelin)

Once I ask Haruka, who's at his side, she begins to explain while revealing an attractive smile.

"Eru-san became already strong enough that it's at least possible for him to be enlisted in the Battou Unit. He reached the point where he's able to fight quite evenly against my elder brother." (Haruka)

"That's amazing, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

According to Haruka, Eru has more talent in using the katana than the sword. The reason why he didn't know about that until now is probably because katana don't exist in Helmut Kingdom. It seems there are very few people that possess one, but it's at the level of being secretly collected by some maniacs.

However I think he did well to get this far in such a short time.

When I thought that, Eru got happy by Haruka handing him something like towel to wipe away the sweat. Since Eru's original facial features are decent, it gives the impression of a beautiful manager handing a towel to the ace after finishing club activity.

As he has talent in using the katana to begin with, he's probably eager to show his good points to Haruka. His motive was evil, but I don't think it's a problem since he actually got strong by seriously training.

'Riajuus do exist...'

"Katana, huh? Is that the one you bought first?" (Wendelin)

"Yea. Though it's a crude, mass-produced item, I suppose." (Erwin)

Eru shows me the katana he has been swinging.

Once I examine the quality of the material with the [Analyse] spell since I don't have any accurate knowledge about Japanese swords at all, it was steel with quite the high purity.

"It was created by a campaign expert blacksmith of the national army of Earl Mizuho Country. The material was the one you gave me before, Vel." (Erwin)

"Aah, the one I prepared, you say?" (Wendelin)

"Don't be so forgetful...." (Erwin)

I remember that because Eru told me about making a katana, I gathered an appropriate amount of iron sand from the ground, removed the surplus components, formed it into a clump of iron and gave it to him.

"Do you possess talent in smithing as well, Earl Baumeister-sama?" (Haruka)

"No, I simply collected it with magic." (Wendelin)

I'm not proud of it, but I didn't receive anything better than average scores in practical subjects such as art, crafting and physical education in my previous life. It's unthinkable for me to have talent in the making of Japanese swords or similar. I simply extracted the metal from the ground by using magic.

I answered Haruka's question in such manner.

"I'm good at gathering metal from abandoned mines and mine polluted ponds, but processing it is impossible for me." (Wendelin)

It's regrettable since I could have flourished as magic tool craftsman if I was able to do so. The reason for me thinking that is because I selfishly consider the appearance of craftsmen as cool.

"However, it was praised by the swordsmith to be magnificent raw material." (Haruka)

Mizuho katana become high-quality products if they are smithed by using raw materials with an iron purity that is as high as possible. Even so, if you create iron with the technology of this world from iron ore originating from a mine, it ends up becoming an alloy-like metal with titan and such mixed in.

In that case it apparently tends towards becoming a hard weapon, but as flexibility is very essential for a katana as well, the expensive katana seem to be produced by expressly gathering iron sand with a high purity from rivers and similar. I heard that they did the same in old Japan as well.

My superior's hobby at my workplace were Japanese swords. That's why I heard about it at the year-end party.

"Originally it's high-quality iron that's not used for crude katanas." (Haruka)

"Hee, really?" (Wendelin)

No matter how much Earl Mizuho Country excels at technology, they seem to be unable to obtain high-quality iron as katana material that easily. The work of removing the impurities from the iron and processing it into steel is surely something that relies heavily on magic, I guess.

What is handed out as sword that can be used by a low-ranking soldier in the kingdom and empire is an item that gets forged with just sturdiness as its main attribute. A sword that is forged by a blacksmith himself actually swinging his hammer is something that will be bought by low-ranking nobles after saving up money.

"This katana is amazing, but once I get much better, I want to create a katana out of orichalcum." (Erwin)

"Out of orichalcum? Can you make that?" (Wendelin)

If Mizuho katana and Japanese katana are identical, I wonder whether it's possible to recreate a katana that is made by combining hard and soft iron with just orichalcum? I felt slightly doubtful about that.

"I have been told that the top class Mizuho katana are an combination of soft secret steel, where pure orichalcum is processed in a special way, and hard secret steel, which is a mixture of mithril and orichalcum with a fixed ratio, following the secret formula of Earl Mizuho Country." (Haruka)

As expected of the beautiful samurai girl. Having the necessary knowledge, coupled with her appearance, Haruka was the most suitable to explain the Mizuho katana.

"Isn't it wrong to tell people of a foreign country too much about such secrets?" (Wendelin)

"If it's this degree of knowledge, all of the empire's blacksmiths know about it. The precise mixing ratio and the unique method of processing are tightly kept hidden. Even I'm not fully aware of those." (Haruka)

"I see..." (Wendelin)

There are too many secret techniques in Earl Mizuho Country anyway.

Putting aside the magic katana, I was surprised by those magic rifles. From the standpoint of Duke Nürnberg who is a firm ultranationalist, they were likely seen as threat that should be either dominated or destroyed.

Though, in my case it wasn't a serious issue as I want to be on good terms with them since it's a distant, semi-independent nation that reminds me of Japan.

"Orichalcum katana possess offensive abilities comparable to magic katana after being charged with mana, even if they are not regularly maintained in a sophisticated process by craftsmen. Therefore there are many among the Mizuho people who desire one." (Haruka)

The orichalcum sword that Eru obtained, cut through many golems in Herthania Valley like tofu. If it's an orichalcum katana, its sharpness is even better, Haruka says.

"Eru, have them make small and big orichalcum katana." (Wendelin)

"No, that's probably unreasonable." (Erwin)

"Yes. Leaving the costs aside, the material is lacking." (Haruka)

According to what Haruka says, there's apparently no orichalcum on stock.

If there was, it would have been made into katana for the Mizuho household and the chief retainer households. As of yet there's almost nothing on stock, Haruka explained.

A new orichalcum mine hasn't currently been discovered in Earl Mizuho Country, it seems.

"I have the material!" (Wendelin)

All the orichalcum that was mined in the Savage Lands and Herthania Valley was delivered to me. I also gathered it in my childhood by using mana wastefully if there was even the slightest response to my search spells. Orichalcum can't be collected in quantity anyway.

Discovering promising large-scale ore deposits, I finally gathered around 200 kilogram after mining for several years.

Lately, the iron deposits were big hits, I guess. To a degree that such conversations are held between the mining staff. Rather, there have been many orichalcum products that had been excavated from ancient ruins.

"I will provide the material for two katana and give them Eru's orichalcum sword to make up for their effort." (Wendelin)

"That's fine with you?" (Erwin)

Even though it's only material, one sword has an amount of orichalcum that allows for two Mizuho katana with different sizes to be made.

Taking into account the processing fee, Eru apparently realizes that my side will incur a loss.

"You know, even if I possess a katana..." (Wendelin)

If it's a sword, I might be able to at least kill a single soldier. However, even if I unreasonably owned a katana, the current me would definitely be unable to handle it.

I longed for one as I'm a Japanese, but there's no meaning if I can't use it. That means letting Eru keep it is the most efficient solution.

"Besides, my last defense line are you after all, Eru." (Wendelin)

"Certainly, that's my job." (Erwin)

"Then, accept it." (Wendelin)

I pass a clump of orichalcum to Eru. It was around half of my stock, but it should be possible to forge the necessary number of katana with this.

"Isn't that too much?" (Erwin)

"Can you forge around three katana with this? For the time being, please try to create only what is possible." (Wendelin)

I asked Eru to order the creation of the Japanese swords.

"Won't you come to the expert blacksmith's place as well, Vel?" (Erwin)

"Studying by observation? That's a great idea." (Wendelin)

* * *

Following Haruka, Eru and I moved to the the field workshop that's adjacent to the headquarters of Earl Mizuho Country's national army.

The campaign's master smiths and magic tools craftsmen repair and produce weapons and armours here. Several dozens master smiths and magic tool craftsmen forged katana and maintained magic rifles.

"Erwin-dono? How's the katana I forged for you?" (???)

The one who called out to Eru was an elderly person with an appearance that immediately told one that he's a very skilled katana smith.

Wearing clothes that resembled a monk's working clothes, he walks over to us while wiping his sweat off with a towel.

"I have grown accustomed to it." (Erwin)

"That's great. So, he's Earl Baumeister-sama, right?" (???)

"Yes. As a matter of fact, my lord appears to have a request..." (Erwin)

"Is it a katana creation request? Aah, sorry for forgetting to mention it. I'm called Kaneda the 87th, a master smith employed by the Mizuho household." (Kaneda)

Going by his name, he seems to be a person who forges great katana. It appears there are people who make Japanese swords as family occupation for generations in Earl Mizuho Country, too.

"I'm Wendelin von Benno Baumeister. I'd like you to actually forge katana out of orichalcum." (Wendelin)

Once I say so, Eru gives the clump of orichalcum to Kaneda.

"You did well to obtain such a big amount. I guess it will result in two sets of of large and small katana, and one dagger." (Kaneda)

I guess as should be expected of a renown artisan. Seeing the clump of orichalcum, he can immediately estimate the number of katana that can be created from it.

"Then, please forge katana for Eru." (Wendelin)

"I will gladly receive your order." (Kaneda)

"Kaneda-san, will that be really alright?" (Erwin)

Eru apparently holds Kaneda in high esteem. He addressed him in a polite tone.

"It's because you have improved at a magnificent pace, Erwin-san. I believe it will become necessary very soon. Besides, even if it's me, I want to be able to temper orichalcum. Looking at it like this, I'm a greedy master smith." (Kaneda)

Because orichalcum itself is rare, it looks like people can also forge it seldomly. In the eyes of a master smith it must be a material they long for.

"I might be conceited, but I'm a master smith said to be equal to Kaneda the 1st. Please trust in me as I will certainly forge famous katana." (Kaneda)

"That's very reassuring. Then, here's a big service." (Wendelin)

I take out the other half of the orichalcum from my magic bag.

"Then it will become five sets of small and big katana, and one dagger." (Kaneda)

"I won't specify a time for delivery. Please forge them until you can agree with them." (Wendelin)

"Thank you." (Kaneda)

As he demanded a clump of iron, that had its composition adjusted by me, as payment, and a bit of mithril to be used as component, I have given those to him as well.

"Earl Baumeister-sama, you can refine high-grade iron with magic, right? If it's this iron, everyone will be delighted." (Kaneda)

"Then, I leave it to you." (Wendelin)

When the three of us returned to our hose since we finished requesting the production of the Japanese swords, several Mizuho people awaited us in front of the entrance. Going by their attires, the appear to be quite high-ranking chief retainers.

"Earl Baumeister-sama, please sell me the Mizuho katana you requested by providing the materials." (???)

"I'd like you to sell them to me!" (???)

"If it's money, I will pay! How about 300.000 ryo?" (???)

"I will pay 400.000 ryou!" (???)

——It seems they swiftly got hold of the information about me having carried in a large amount of orichalcum to the field workshop. They approached with a very strong intensity asking me to sell the completed katana to them.

* * *

"Hee, something like that happened?" (Burkhart)

On that day, Burkhart-san listens very interested to the details during the chat at the dinner location.

"The Mizuho katana is a swordsman's pride, their soul." (Haruka)

"I do understand that they cherish them, but..." (Ina)

Haruka explains the frantic emotions of wanting to obtain an orichalcum-made katana harboured by her countrymen as if it's easy to understand.

Ina was able to understand that they treasure the weapons which save their own lives, but being told about pride, soul or such, she seems uncertain of the meaning.

One more person tilted their head to the side.

"Elise, do you understand?" (Wendelin)

What I know is just the knowledge that the samurai in the old Japan cherished their katana. As this is just knowledge to the bitter end, I myself don't harbour such sentiments towards katana. I think it's only at the level of having some yearning and thinking, "I have to take care of it.".

"It's like cherishing the scriptures and the priestess' garb, for example?" (Elise)

"Yes. Though these are important, God states that 『Don't cling to possessions』..." (Haruka)

It's probably a proverb for the sake of restraining materialistic desires, but I can understand them being unable to cooperate religiously with Earl Mizuho Country due to this point. Actually there are many priests who like money and expensive items though.

"It's not like Earl Mizuho Country is particularly adhering to items. Rather, I think it has the meaning that they will cherish a katana they had forged once as much as possible." (Wendelin)

"If it's that way of thinking, I can understand." (Elise)

I don't comprehend talks about philosophy or religion at all.

I just said it non-committally, but Ina and the others are puzzled as they apparently can't understand after all. As for Doushi, he concentrated on the food. I guess he has absolutely no interest. What Doushi cherishes is probably his own body.

"It might be easier to understand if you call a katana a partner to whom you entrust your own life." (Erwin)

"That's it, Eru-san." (Haruka)

Haruka is usually a quiet woman. She owns the two aspects of showing no openings as first-class swordsgirl and her feminine virtues of old Japan. However, after getting involved with Eru, she talks about various things while looking happy.

'There's hope for Eru?' (Wendelin)

It's desirable as Eru's best friend and at the same time it's related to having a link to Earl Mizuho Country. After all that country has many of the dearly-missed, Japanese-like items I desire.

* * *

"So, how is it going? With Haruka?" (Wendelin)

"I think my conquest is close at hand." (Erwin)

After dinner I called Eru and tried to ask him when it was just the two of us. As expected, it seems that there's hope.

"However, there's a single problem...." (Erwin)

It seems that Haruka's elder brother makes a fuss with, "You can forget it if you are not at least an even match with me!". I end up thinking that he's a stubborn old man from someplace.

"That's from the viewpoint as next family head of a retainer household?" (Wendelin)

It's a fact that he was the next family head of an outrageous retainer household, but originally, Haruka's home is a retainer household with a low social position. Them being currently treated well is because the elder brother and the younger sister are excellent with katana to a degree of being chosen for the Battou Unit.

Even without the guarantee that his own children will be skilled enough to enter the Battou Unit, he isn't that obsessed with marrying his little sister away first since they are a small household to begin with.

"Haruka is complicated as marriage partner, isn't she?" (Wendelin)

Since her pedigree is low, she can't marry into a distinguished retainer household as first wife. She's more excelling with the katana than a husband that might accept her.

In Earl Mizuho Country, that puts importance on katana skill, a wife, who surpasses her husband in ability by miles, seems to be an existence that gets treated as something troublesome.

"That's why all the other women affiliated with the Battou Unit are single as well." (Erwin)

In addition, there's her elder brother, too. He loves his younger sister and seems to constantly voice his opinion of, "Rather than being troubled by getting married into some strange place, stay at home forever".

In short, he is what's commonly referred as sis-con. Given that his younger sister can't help being lovely, he probably doesn't want her to become a wife if possible at all.

"Haruka's elder brother, I met him in the past as well, didn't I?" (Wendelin)

"Yeah." (Erwin)

As he possesses top-class ability for a young man, he was previously introduced to me by High Earl Mizuho.

I remember that he looked like a very serious youth, but having a sister complex certainly isn't something that you can deduct from a person's appearance.

"Shall I ask Haruka's elder brother...?" (Wendelin)

"Please. Going by my current ability, it will take several years until I can compete against Haruka's elder brother." (Erwin)

Eru seems to be confident that he will be able to catch up with the katana to Haruka's elder brother's. Since he's actually got talent as well, that's probably no conceited bragging either.

"If we waited until then, Haruka will be a woman who missed her chance of getting married, I guess." (Erwin)

"Wai-! You!" (Wendelin)

If Therese hears about this, it will turn into a scandal for Eru. I blocked Eru's mouth in panic.

"Anyway, it will be fine if I try asking Haruka's elder brother personally." (Wendelin)

"I leave it to you, Vel." (Erwin)

* * *

The next morning I head to the encampment of Earl Mizuho Country's national army together with Eru and Haruka.

Once we go towards the station of the Battou Unit within that encampment, Haruka's elder brother was practising with his katana there.

"Oh, Earl Baumeister-sama? I'm grateful for you taking care of Haruka." (Elder Brother)

"Hello." (Wendelin)

Haruka's elder brother, who doesn't look like a sis-con but a diligent and fluent youth, stopped his training and greeted me with a cheerful voice.

"Has Haruka been helpful to you?" (Elder Brother)

"She has good skills after all. I won't ever be able to win against her with my swordsmanship." (Wendelin)

When I praised Haruka's katana skills, his mood improved. Moreover, he seems to be relieved after confirming that his younger sister looks just as usual.

"As a matter of fact, there's something I'd like to speak about with you...." (Wendelin)

"It's not allowed! No matter what, No!" (Elder Brother)

Once I try speaking about it, he suddenly refuses me before I can even really start. He apparently partially sensed with his instinct what I was going to ask him.

"Nii-sama? What's not allowed?" (Haruka)

"It's nothing you need to know, Haruka!" (Elder Brother)

"???" (Haruka)

'Huh?' (Wendelin)

At this moment I realize a certain fact. As Haruka is far too serious, she doesn't seem to have much of knowledge in that direction. No, I guess she simply hasn't noticed it?

It looks like she hasn't realized until now that she might be married to Eru. It was possible that her being friendly to Eru was just because her happiness about the improvement speed of Eru's skills influenced by her, as simple swordsmanship idiot.

"Let's have a chat for the time being." (Wendelin)

"No! It's in vain. Something like sending my cute younger sister to a foreign country!" (Elder Brother)

I suppose as elder brother he doesn't want his lovely younger sister to be send as wife to a foreign country.

In such case it will be fine if I rely on High Earl Mizuho, but even if he's ordered from above, it would leave a bad aftertaste on the emotional side. It would likely be the best if we could receive his consent.

"What's wrong about Eru?" (Wendelin)

"He has talent, but he's still inexperienced." (Elder Brother)

"Be that as it may, how many years do you want to make him wait?" (Wendelin)

"That is...." (Elder Brother)

He wishes to keep his adorable younger sister at his side, but having said that, she will think badly of him as elder brother if he obstructs a marriage for his own reasons.

Haruka's brother seems to continue being conflicted in his mind.

".....If Haruka lives in a foreign country, there will also be a different culture there." (Elder Brother)

"I don't think that it's something you have to worry about this much though...." (Wendelin)

There isn't that much of a difference in the language. The food culture is close to Mizuho as well, thanks to me.

Besides, I have placed the condition to enter trade with Earl Mizuho Country as reward for cooperating towards an end of the civil war in the empire. I will go shopping there regularly. At that time Haruka should be able to serve as good guide. As long as [Teleportation] exists, she will be able to visit her home right away.

"But...." (Elder Brother)

"Even if you throw a tantrum like a child, it's inevitable, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

As for me, I won't force Haruka, if she dislikes it. There's plenty of other candidates. Eru doesn't wish for that either. However, I had no intention to pull back with her elder brother's refusal as reason.

"The man, to whom I entrust Haruka, has to be strong." (Elder Brother)

"However...." (Wendelin)

'Defeat me if you want my younger sister'.

Putting aside something like that as story, in reality it's established as being nothing more than bothersome. I don't think that there's a household that has any merit in inviting Haruka as wife or that there's man, who's stronger than her elder brother, loving Haruka at present.

In that case, I don't consider it to be that bad as first connection between the Earl Baumeister household and Earl Mizuho Country. If I told High Earl Mizuho about it, he should give me an okay right away.

"It's no good unless it's a man who can win against me." (Elder Brother)

In the next few years Eru will probably have skills at the level of being at least even to Haruka's elder brother. Although there's such judgment, I have a problem with waiting for several years just like that. I think I at least want him to value the future prospects.

"Won't Eru be good enough in several years?" (Wendelin)

"It's no good if it's not now! Anyway, it's pointless!" (Elder Brother)

Haruka's elder brother was obstinate. The emotional aspect is big, but he might also not follow the concept of enlarging the household with forced political marriages since they are a low-ranking retainer household.

Well then, how should I get the person himself to agree?

"How about if you fight with a sword and not a katana, Eru?" (Wendelin)

"No, the current me can't win, even if it's with a sword." (Erwin)

From my point of view, Eru's swordsmanship looks to be considerably developed, but Haruka's elder brother is even further above that. And in the Earl Mizuho Country there are several masters who exceed even Haruka's elder brother.

'How about having a try and going for it for the time being? After all it might be possible.' (Wendelin)

'If I lose with that, the talks will reset to the starting point again.' (Erwin)

'That's right isn't it...?' (Wendelin)

Since he's saying that he won't hand over Haruka as wife if he can't win, it's necessary to somehow defeat Haruka's brother.

"It's fine even if it's you, Earl Baumeister-sama." (Elder Brother)

"Eh? Me?" (Wendelin)

I'm bewildered by Haruka's brother's sudden proposal.

"Aren't you Erwin-dono's lord, Earl Baumeister-sama? If you are strong, I will be able to let her go with a peace of mind." (Elder Brother)

I don't understand why it's alright even if it's me. I don't have any particular intention to take Haruka as wife. There's not a splinter of a chance that my swordsmanship is better than Eru's.

"Are you aware of my swordsmanship skills?" (Wendelin)

"No, I want to fight against your magic, Earl Baumeister-sama. That's your strongest weapon, isn't it?" (Elder Brother)

"Magic, you say?" (Wendelin)

I end up wondering whether Haruka's elder brother isn't an outrageous battle junkie.

He will oppose magic with a katana. I wondered whether it might be some different kind of hand-to-hand competition, but never did I consider that he would challenge me to such contest.

"Vel, I leave it to you." (Erwin)

"Uuh.... Got it...." (Wendelin)

It's the request of Eru who's my retainer and dear friend. I acknowledged the duel with Haruka's elder brother.

* * *

"Don't use any exceedingly big magic." (Burkhart)

"Also, killing is forbidden." (Armstrong)

"I know." (Wendelin)

"Tentatively I have to warn you. Your magic is sometimes no joke, Earl-sama." (Burkhart)

"Indeed. It has power at the level of calamity class." (Armstrong)

"As what kind of destroyer do you two see me?" (Wendelin)

""........""

"Please answer normally that it's a joke at this point!" (Wendelin)

Even though I met with Haruka's elder brother to have him approve of Eru's and Haruka's marriage, it ended up with me dueling him on the grassland located on the parade ground of Earl Mizuho Country's national army for some reason.

From where did they hear about it?

In addition to Therese, Alfons and High Earl Mizuho, many spectators have gathered at the grassland. Burkhart-san and Doushi became my seconds before I noticed.

It seems everyone is starving for entertainment in this protracted war while they are expanding the field encampment and colonization. A subtle blood-thirst welled up in me due to to everyone observing while eating and drinking as they please.

"Don't be careless." (Armstrong)

"That's only natural." (Wendelin)

I can't use too strong magic. And Haruka's brother possesses a magic katana.

Since I have never been actually attacked by one of those yet, it was difficult for me to predict to what degree it can destroy a [Magic Barrier].

"Seeing the nature of magic katana, an elementary magician will be killed if they are careless." (Armstrong)

"Is it a magician killer?" (Wendelin)

"I don't know since there's likely no opportunity to kill a precious magician if there's no war, but the probability is high." (Armstrong)

It's just as Doushi says, but that might mean that Haruka's elder brother wants to get a hang of this with a real combat format duel against me. It seems that I'm used as a guinea pig here.

"Dear, please be careful of injuries." (Elise)

"We will stop at injuries that are in the range of your healing capability, Elise." (Wendelin)

Elise called out to me while looking worried.

"Vel, I think that Haruka's onii-san is a different case than Eru." (Ina)

"I see. I don't know anything but him being somehow amazing." (Wendelin)

There's a difference between katana and spear, but Ina was surprised by Haruka's brother's high ability.

I don't comprehend anything but him being quite good more or less. Although I could roughly measure the capacity of a magician, I was an outsider in regards to katana techniques.

"You practiced swordsmanship in the past as well, Vel, didn't you?" (Luise)

"Seeing that I have no talent, it can't be helped." (Wendelin)

"I don't think that you will lose easily if it's magic, but it's best if you are not stingy with the mana for your [Magic Barrier], Vel." (Luise)

Luise also revealed her wariness towards Haruka's brother who is confronting me with around 20 meters between us.

"Don't allow him to close in on you." (Wilma)

"Anyway, don't give your opponent the initiative by rapidly firing small spells." (Katharina)

After receiving advice from Wilma and Katharina as well, I will fight against Haruka's elder brother.

"......I don't understand the logic completely, but..... Normally it's probably a setting where Eru fights, causes a miracle and Haruka's brother brings it to an happy end with 『You are quite the guy, aren't you?』." (Wendelin)

And yet I'm stuck competing against him with the reasoning that I'm Eru's lord. I don't get it at all.

"Is that guy a battle junkie or something like that?" (Wendelin)

"It's certain that he's a person who has large targets. He might wish for power that enables him to fight against magicians to some extent." (Erwin)

"I'm the guinea pig for that, huh....?" (Wendelin)

"Sorry. Nii-sama has...." (Haruka)

I end up complaining to Eru unintentionally, but once I see Haruka apologizing next to him, there's no way for me to throw the match.

If I win, we will at least gain Haruka's brother's approval for a marriage between Eru and Haruka.

"Oh well, don't mind. It will be fine if I win." (Wendelin)

While cracking a joke for the sake of Haruka, I'm actually convinced of my victory in my mind.

Seeing that I have a [Magic Barrier], the other side's attacks won't get through, not matter how I think about it.

"Then, let's start?" (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister-sama, let's have a fair fight." (Elder Brother)

Elise and the others leave me vicinity and the match begins at the same time as Burkhart-san launches a fireball into the sky as signal.

Seeing that my opponent uses a katana, there's no point unless he gets close to me. That means that it would be best for my side to make him accumulate damage with magic that out-ranges him.

First I create a large amount of pellets with magic and then I release them towards Haruka's brother with different timing. He should become incapable of fighting if he's hit by several of them.

As expected, it would be wrong of me to kill him in front of his younger sister. There's also the side of High Earl Mizuho who is his lord.

"Naive!" (Elder Brother)

However, Haruka's brother draws his katana at lightning speed and repels the pellets by cutting them one after the other. His movements were just like the user of a sword that cuts iron that appears in a certain 3rd generation series.

(T/N: Goemon Ishikawa XIII from Lupin 3rd, I think. At least he fits the bill here)

"No way!" (Wendelin)

I, who ended up having all my pellets cut apart, fire small fireballs in succession at Haruka's brother next.

Once I do so, he drew his third sword, the magic katana which is his trump card.

When Haruka's brother swings the katana blade that's clad in a faint bluish-white light, the fireballs vanish one after the other while giving off a 『poof』 sound.

"Water attribute, eh?!" (Wendelin)

"It's possible to regulate the mana quantity and attribute used by a magic katana!" (Elder Brother)

Next I release small wind cutters in succession.

Those have killed and wounded many soldiers in the capital and during our escape, but they are also extinguished by the yellow-glowing blade in succession. My wind cutters ended up getting erased by him cladding the blade in earth-attribute mana.

'Mizuho magic katana; aren't those dangerous?' (Wendelin)

If one's at the level of an unskilled elementary magician, they will get easily killed by a master magic katana user. This is what Duke Nürnberg should be wary of.

'This means I can't afford to let him get close.' (Wendelin)

The magic katana's flaw is that it will turn into a simple katana once the magic gem inside runs out of mana. In that case it will be fine if I make him waste it as much as possible while not letting him draw closer. Since he will approach even while cutting fireballs or such, I next take out the sword without blade I received from master in the past.

I immediately produce a fire blade and after stabbing that into the ground, I release [Fire Snakes] that run towards Haruka's brother in rapid succession.

"Tsk!"

Of course they shouldn't hit him, but Haruka's brother had to stop his advance in order to evade. During that time I gradually fell back to the rear.

"[Ice Snake], [Earth Drive] and [Whirlwind Cutter], I wonder which of them is good?" (Wendelin)

Since I don't expect Haruka's brother to answer, I fire in rapid succession while adding feints into it.

Anyway, it's in order to not allow him getting close, as I was told by Wilma and Katharina. If I'm late in deploying the [Magic Barrier] in worst case, it will spell my defeat.

"There's nothing that's impossible for a magic katana." (Elder Brother)

Haruka's brother continued to dodge my magic, but after moving widely to the side, he stabs the magic katana into the ground.

The blade shines red for an instant and a flame as if a fuse was lit heads my way. It seems that he's copying my magic.

'Even though he isn't a magician, magic katana are frightening items, I guess. But...' (Wendelin)

I had waited for this.

I think that it's amazing, but such attack will exhaust the precious remaining mana in the magic katana.

If Haruka's elder brother, who's not a magician, loses the mana of the magic katana, he will return to being a simple excellent swordsman.

Actually, when the magic katana erased several [Ice Snake] spells, light vanished from that katana.

"Fufu. There's no mana left in the magic katana!" (Elder Brother)

Suddenly Haruka's brother opens the hilt of the magic katana, removes the the empty magic gem and replaces it with a spare magic gem he took out from his pocket.

It was a shocking reality. The magic gem inside a magic katana was exchangeable like a battery once it used up its mana.

"However, this way things will never end. Let me oppose you with my entire power from now on." (Elder Brother)

No sooner than saying that, Haruka's brother charges in a straight line towards me.

I try to hinder his approach with a series of fireballs in a hurry, but all of them are erased with a large swing of the magic katana.

"Wh—!?" (Wendelin)

He attempted to get close to me in one go without economizing on his mana. As there's a difference in physical ability to begin with, my retreat won't be in time.

Since Haruka's brother approached very close, I defend with a big fireball having a diameter of 1 meter next, but it ends up being cut in two by the magic katana that was clad in water attribute.

"[Magic Barrier]!"

There's almost no distance between me and Haruka's elder brother anymore. If he gets this close, I have no other choice but to continue defending against his attacks with a [Magic Barrier].

Therefore I cast a [Magic Barrier], but I had somehow a bad premonition for an instant.

It was a kind of 6th sense, but I have a hunch that I will go through a bitter experience most of the times if I ignore these things. Accordingly I made the [Magic Barrier] thicker than usual and it seems my intuition was correct.

"Mizuho Shinkage-Ryu Secret Technique [Wolf Fang]!"

Haruka's brother didn't slash but unleashed a thrusting attack that focused on one point. He plots to break through at one point by charging just the magic katana's point with mana.

This judgment is correct. It was a situation where his attack pierced almost completely through the skin of the [Magic Barrier] that was thicker than usual. If I didn't follow my intuition, I would have probably lost after getting stabbed in a vital spot.

Since we aren't allowed to kill each other, I have lowered the mana output as handicap, but even so, it's true that I would have lost.

"It's my loss." (Elder Brother)

At the moment his full power attack didn't reach, Haruka's brother put the magic katana back into its sheath and accepted his defeat.

"I would have lost if I didn't make the [Magic Barrier] thicker after getting some bad premonition, you know?" (Wendelin)

"That intuition is something you obtained by diligently devoting yourself to your studies, Earl Baumeister-sama." (Elder Brother)

"You are strong." (Wendelin)

"No, not at all. I'm still too much of a novice. By the way, it's about Haruka's matter. Seeing that I lost the match I believe that I want to approve of it. If Haruka goes to Earl Baumeister-sama's place, she will probably be relieved as well. Erwin will become strong before long, too." (Elder Brother)

"That's great." (Wendelin)

There was worth in going as far as having a duel. With this the obstacle to Eru's and Haruka's marriage vanished at last.

"Haruka-san." (Erwin)

"Eru-san." (Haruka)

And then Eru and Haruka, the two concerned parties, stared at each other. The rest depends on Eru showing his ability, I guess.

"Though it's after this war ends, but would you come to Baumeister Earldom with me, Haruka-san?" (Erwin)

"Yes, gladly." (Haruka)

Haruka agrees to Eru's proposal without any hesitation.

"Finally Eru-boy will marry as well, won't he?" (Burkhart)

"That's nice, isn't it?" (Armstrong)

"Can't thou make such a proposal to me as well, Wendelin?" (Therese)

"No, that's impossible, I think." (Alfons)

"Alfons, there's no need for thee to respond calmly only at such times." (Therese)

A part of the gallery was noisy, but above all it's great that things came safely to an end.

Once Eru succeeded in proposing, the surrounding looks turned at the receiver Haruka... That should be so, but for some reason it created an unexpected accident in this place.

Next Haruka said something unthinkable.

"Yes. I will be Eru-san's swordsmanship instructor. I gratefully accept!" (Haruka)

"Yes?" (Erwin)

Eru apparently intended to propose to her, but Haruka seems to have perceived it as having obtained the permission to go to Baumeister Earldom as Eru's swordsmanship instructor. Meaning her own elder brother only opposed his younger sister going to a foreign country.

Due to Haruka's unforeseen reply, Eru's eyes turned into dots.

"Which reminds me, did anyone talk to Haruka about marrying Eru?" (Wendelin)

Once I try considering it from another angle, I feel like we never directly talked to her about a marriage. At least I have attached such condition though.

"So, how about you, onii-san?" (Haruka)

"Sorry.... My words were only in opposition to you going to Baumeister Earldom...." (Elder Brother)

There was also the issue of swordsmanship ability, but as Haruka's brother, who's basically a sis-con, couldn't permit the fact of his younger sister marrying, he apparently didn't try to use this move of education at all.

With her being a beauty, having talent in swordsmanship and being skilled with things such as cooking and sewing, she's a woman with the image of displaying the female virtues of old Japan, but it seems that the knowledge about romance or marriage mostly hasn't entered her mind.

"Imouto-san, have you been hit on by your comrades in the Battou Unit?" (Elder Brother)

"I made such bad people understand with training." (Haruka)

Since both, younger sister and elder brother, belong to the Battou Unit, he apparently fought hard so that no strange bugs attached themselves to Haruka. He's truly a man appropriate to be called the mirror image of a sis-con.

"Since we will get the permission from High Earl Mizuho, make sure to properly explain it to your younger sister as the next family head and as elder brother." (Wendelin)

"Please excuse me from that." (Elder Brother)

'As expected of a sis-con....'

"Not allowed. Do it!" (Wendelin)

I won.

If he can't yield that much, I have to strengthen my tone and order Haruka's elder brother.

"I will comply...." (Elder Brother)

Seizing both shoulders of Haruka's brother with both hands, I succeed in persuading him.

However, something like refusing the demand of an Earl, albeit from another country, this man is a frightening sis-con. Since he's an old-styled swordsman going by his appearance and as he usually conducts himself in such manner as well, there's probably few people who have realized the instinct of a sis-con flowing inside the heart of this man.

"The rest is just getting the permission from High Earl Mizuho, I guess." (Wendelin)

With the hindrance to Eru's and Haruka's marriage finally having vanished, I sighed in relief from the bottom of my heart.

Chapter 88: Too many cooks spoil the broth

"Hmmmm. It's possible to eat it normally." (Armstrong)

"It's not delicious though." (Burkhart)

"It's fodder for horses after all." (Wendelin)

Two weeks after the duel with Haruka's elder brother; during the continuous, long encampment I endeavoured in my hobby of food research after finishing my training in magic today as well. If one were to ask why I'm doing something like that, it's because it is my free time once I finish my assigned work and training.

Be that as it may, I'm not doing anything that complicated. At a section of the training venue located in the encampment of Earl Mizuho Country's national army, the three of us are simply creating stew by using a big pot on a portable magic stove. Our most recent subject was the practical application of the Idiot Daikon that has been cultivated in large quantities on the fields by the garrison as fodder for the horses.

Is there any way to cook these unappetizing Idiot Daikon into something delicious? It's a difficult problem we are unable to tackle successfully, therefore it's something to get us fired up, no... allowing us to waste time.

"Wendelin, thou are doing something strange there." (Therese)

"Humans can't survive without eating." (Wendelin)

Even throughout the astonishment of Therese who is already staying permanently at the field encampment that finished its expansion, I continue my trial and error.

Also the rebel army led by Duke Nürnberg has deployed several forces of a few thousands in the vicinity to watch out over this field encampment, but as of yet there's no sign of them sending forth a large army.

According to the intelligence of our spies, they seem to be struggling with the eastern and western parts close to the center and the south. No matter how much they have taken the family heads as hostages, the prince-elector households probably won't obediently listen to what they are told.

"There's someone just like them on our side as well." (Wendelin)

The Duke Baden household, the sole prince-elector following our side except the Duke Philip household, seems to have initiated various schemes to seize the initiative. Because there will only be two emperor candidates left after the rebel army got defeated, it appears that his greed is gradually peeking out.

It doesn't seem that he will pull the rug from below our feet for now since we have the same goal, but getting impatient due to the current situation, the young Duke Baden reached the point of talking about capturing several cities and bases.

Amassing several military victories besides the first battle will establish our superiority over the rebel army. The young Duke Baden proposed this strategic plan at the regular meeting and received support from several noble households that have sent out additional troops after being able to invite many estranged noble households that were hesitating because of the rebel army's conduct.

Therese said that it's possible for that to be a temptation. She is rejecting that strategic plan as Duke Nürnberg might have adopted a waiting stance and thus it's possible they will suffer an unexpected surprise attack if they split up the military forces into smaller groups.

As someone that has no military talent, I don't know which side is correct, but my personal opinion leans towards Therese's plan. The reason for that is that I felt something similar to impatience from the young Duke Baden. I'm sure that he wants to accumulate meritorious deeds until the civil war ends in order to be allowed to hold a fair emperor election between him and Therese.

Is there any benefit for the the supporting nobles if young Duke Baden becomes the emperor? There are many nobles who simply want to earn rewards by obtaining military achievements. Seeing that it can be considered as definite that the influence of the big nobles will change after the war, it's the best chance to increase one's peerage and territory.

"This stew, it's more delicious with normal daikon, you know?" (Burkhart)

"Even though I thought it would work out well since it's miso stew..." (Wendelin)

Entrails are prepared with miso and a vegetable stew boiled inside the big pot placed on the portable magic stove while making a simmering sound.

"Certainly, using normal daikon makes it tastier, but it's not like it's inedible either." (Armstrong)

Doushi starts to eat the miso stew that got boiled in the big pot. Burkhart-san stopped eating it after just tasting a bit of it.

"As expected, the taste of the Idiot Daikon itself is bad, I guess." (Wendelin)

While considering today to be a failure as well, I take out another portable magic stove from my magic bag and begin to heat up a big pot I took out likewise.

Inside the pot is amazake. The amazake, that was heated with magic from above as well, heated up to a good temperature within a few minutes.

"Burkhart-san, you will drink it, won't you?" (Wendelin)

"I will. Since there's no way for me to drink alcohol in the morning, amazake is a welcome alternative." (Burkhart)

It was great that I bought sake lees from a peddler staying at the encampment of Earl Mizuho Country's national army to use them with the boiled lees since it's still cold outside. Since the Mizuho dishes are mostly Japanese food, it's a great delight that they suit my taste as well.

"Please don't drink too much, okay? We are waiting for Elise and the others to prepare breakfast." (Wendelin)

"I know, I know." (Burkhart)

"I will drink one cup as well." (Armstrong)

Doushi, who ate all the miso stew that Burkhart-san and me judged as flop, requested some amazake as well. Since it won't have any particular impact on breakfast in Doushi's case even if he eats heavily here, neither of us cautions him.

"Here you go." (Wendelin)

"This is the best on a chilly morning, ain't it?" (Burkhart)

"What are you three doing?" (Erwin)

"As usual we are waiting for you, Eru." (Wendelin)

"Please stop it because it's embarrassing~!!" (Erwin)

At a section where many soldiers and samurai of the Earl Mizuho Country's national army were earnestly practicing, the three of us were creating stew by using a pot on a portable magic stove while not minding the looks of the surroundings.

It's gone to such a degree that one might even call it depravity, but because of the lacking activity of the rebel army, we had free time.

"They probably won't particularly mind since we aren't instigating war euphoria like the young Duke Baden." (Wendelin)

"That's right. It's just as Earl-sama says. One more amazake please." (Burkhart)

"Please continue your training without caring about us. One more for me as well." (Armstrong)

"I do mind!" (Erwin)

Eru seems to consider our existence as embarrassment. I don't think it's necessary for him to mind us making stew in a pot that much though.

"Do you want some amazake?" (Armstrong)

".....Yes." (Erwin)

Even so, it seems that he will drink amazake. He quietly received the cup with the amazake in it from Doushi.

"Haruka, do you want some as well?" (Burkhart)

"Yes." (Haruka)

Even Haruka, who's next to Eru, receives a cup from Burkhart-san.

"Well, what to say. Seeing as it's necessary for us to wait, it's also indispensable for us to moderately relax our attention." (Burkhart)

As Burkhart-san says; as the war has passed the stage of an early end, it will be meaningless if we lose by getting impatient. Sometimes it's necessary for an army to wait.

"Though I can also understand your feeling of wanting the war to end swiftly since that will speed up your marriage, Eru." (Wendelin)

Due to my comment, Haruka's face became bright red. The blushing face of a beautiful samurai girl makes quite the picture.

Eru kept his cool on the surface. Given that he has some experience with women, he likely won't show his shame openly.

"No, since I don't want to get killed in action because I hurried before the marriage, I can understand that we have to wait. What I want to tell you is to not cook things in a pot at a section of the practice ground though..." (Erwin)

"You won't be able to fight on an empty stomach. It's a research regarding the valid practical use of Idiot Daikon that hasn't been used for anything but fodder for cattle until now." (Wendelin)

"On a first glance that's a fair argument, but going by your appearances, it doesn't look like that's what you are doing here, does it?" (Erwin)

Eru revealed a fed-up expression at the trio of a boy, a middle-aged man and an elderly man who are simply looking at the state of the cooking big pot.

Regarding Eru's marriage, since it was approved by High Earl Mizuho and Haruka's elder brother in the end, they have officially become engaged. However, at first it was terrible because Haruka was very shaken.

* * *

"I will marry?" (Haruka)

Haruka herself hadn't realized Eru's feelings at all.

She seems to be unfamiliar with the subtleties of romance to begin with. It appears that she thought she would stay single for her entire life while devoting herself to the sword. A part of her also thought that there won't be any men who would want someone like her as wife.

"If you dislike Eru, no one will force you though." (Wendelin)

No, dislike is... On the contrary, Eru-san is, for a woman like me... (Haruka)

Although Haruka was a beauty in the Battou Unit, rude comrades, who tried to make a move on her, had been removed by her elder brother and she was apparently kept at distance by the team members saying that they wouldn't like it to lose to a woman in practice. Her practice partners were just the few other female unit members, her elder brother and those unit members who were stronger than her.

From Haruka's viewpoint, she probably saw Eru as likeable man who learns swordsmanship even from a woman. Even if, for example, the learning of swordsmanship from Haruka itself is nothing more than a reward from Eru's viewpoint.

"Seeing as Eru has said that it's fine, the rest depends on what you are thinking, Haruka, right?" (Wendelin)

"Me, you say...?" (Haruka)

"Right. It's about what you yourself think about it." (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister-sama, you are strange. There wouldn't be any problem even if you forcefully ordered me to do it." (Haruka)

"I'm a timid person after all. It would be unbearable if I received a surprise attack by the unhappy wife of my retainer. There won't be any compulsion." (Wendelin)

"I see. I think I will accept this marriage." (Haruka)

"That's excellent." (Wendelin)

"The only ones who have treated me as woman until now were my female colleagues in the Battou Unit, my older brother and Eru-san. Eru-san is always gentle to me." (Haruka)

Since Eru is deeply in love with the Mizuho beauty Haruka, it's only natural for him to treat her kindly, I think.

However, this natural treatment probably made her happy. She accepted my request happily while blushing a bit.

"Then it's settled, I suppose." (Wendelin)

The engagement between Eru and Haruka was smoothly set in stone like this.

High Earl Mizuho stated his aristocratic opinion of, "Though it's fine if it's a daughter of a retainer with a higher social rank.", but Eru easily drew back by saying that Haruka is fine.

Even Haruka's older brother can't go against an order from above. Since there's also the fact that he lost in the duel against me, he is gladly accepting his younger sister's marriage on the surface.

In exchange for that, it became a famous sight of him staring at the two, who are happily training together every morning, while looking at them bitterly from the start to the end. I think that you should rather do something about him than us three cooking here.

Also, Eru, who is full of happiness now that the marriage has been decided, was slightly annoying. I haven't said anything since it was the same for me when I was newly-wed at first, but he is encouraging me to take lessons in katana techniques with a high tension.

"It will be nice if you take lessons from Haruka as well, Vel." (Erwin)

"Nope." (Wendelin)

Since Eru has a talent for handling katana, he has become a good pupil, but I will probably only get exhausted pointlessly even if I take lessons from her. Something like talent with katana is non-existent in me.

"Don't get killed in action due to being too cheerful. From time immemorial, soldier have said things like, 'I will marry once this war has ended...' and then actually died with a quite high probability." (Wendelin)

"I have never heard something like that." (Erwin)

"Really?"

"It's knowledge from some book..." (Wendelin)

It seems that something like a death flag that has been often mentioned on earth doesn't exist. At least Eru didn't know about it.

"I remember it." (Ina)

"Ina knows about it." (Wendelin)

"It's probably from some story anyway."

"However, authors wrote it from their past experience and it was also mentioned in documents. In addition there have even been children born and such..." (Ina)

I didn't read them, but it seems Ina really had seen such story settings.

There are people sensing something like such a rule even in a different world.

"Something so ill-omened for a married couple... I will hold a happy ceremony with Haruka after the war." (Erwin)

Eru, who was at the peak of happiness, completely disregarded my and Ina's statements.

Because even I think that such rule is quite disturbing, I won't mind it if he ignores it completely as long as he makes sure to not be too merry.

* * *

"Rather than bothering with our cooking, do something about that depressing guy." (Wendelin)

It's not the fault of our cooking. Even now we are popular due to Doushi distributing amazake to those interested. Amazake that's full of nutrition is good for one's health after working out.

Right, amazake is health food. It's no different from drinking a sports drink after club activities.

"Even though he has been told off even by a big shot of the Battou Unit, is there anything you can do?" (Erwin)

Currently Haruka's elder brother is looking at Eru and Haruka while bearing a grudge.

He is properly carrying out his training and work, but it has reached the point that a leader of the Battou Unit has come to Eru telling him, "Please do something about this since the mood is getting worse."

Doushi gives him amazake as he considers him to look pitiful, but he drinks it all up in one go and once again looks at Eru with a hateful expression.

"Haruka, what does your onii-san like?" (Wendelin)

"Umm, katana." (Haruka)

A reply that was very easy to understand. I guess they are a pair of younger sister and elder brother that resembled each other.

"In that case... O~~~~i, Haruka's onii-san." (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister-sama, I don't mind if you call me Takeomi..." (Takeomi)

Haruka's brother throws a reproachful stare at Eru who stole his cute younger sister, but he normally expresses his respect to me who took him down in a duel as Earl.

Once I called out to him, he reverently bowed his head to me.

"As a matter of fact, I want you to try out the new orichalcum katana I requested some time ago." (Wendelin)

Kaneda-san has already completed two sets of small and big katana in this short time.

"Once I got into it, I completely forget about the other katana." (Kaneda)

Since it will interfere with his other work if he concentrates on them this much, he finished two sets of orichalcum katana first.

"Eru is still inexperienced with katana. Thus I'd like Takeomi-san to try out the new katana..." (Wendelin)

"Please leave it to me! No way, for me to try out an orichalcum katana while I'm still alive..." (Takeomi)

I hear that for a samurai of the Mizuho people an orichalcum katana is the most valuable item they want to obtain one day.

From the view of a lower-ranked retainer such as Takeomi-san, it seems to be an item that will give him good luck by just swinging it.

"After breakfast we will come to this training area once again. It seems Kaneda-san will bring the completed orichalcum katana then." (Wendelin)

"Leave it to me!" (Takeomi)

The sullen expression completely vanished from Takeomi-san's face and instead it was brimming with delight that he will be able to test the new orichalcum katana directly after they have been finished.

'Sword Junkie...'

"Umm. Because of that..." (Wendelin)

I have asked him to not show a displeased expression towards Eru. Though I guess it's probably in vain.

He does his work properly. And since it's not like he's pointing such expression towards me, I have no basis to actually warn him about it.

"No matter how much you order me about it, Earl Baumeister-sama, this is a mere instinct." (Takeomi)

"Is that so...?" (Wendelin)

Due to that answer lacking any hesitation, it resulted in me understanding the sinfulness of being a sis-con from the bottom of my heart.

* * *

"It's a beautiful katana." (Takeomi)

"Once you look at it, the blade has a certain charming." (Elise)

Having eaten the breakfast prepared by Elise and the others, we once again gathered at the training area located in Earl Mizuho Country's national army's encampment.

Dozens of training puppets that wore the plate mails and shields of the dead from the rebel army, which had been plundered at the previous battle, have been deployed. They were offered for testing the new katana since they are treated as scrap iron that has no other reuse but being melted down and getting recast due to their devastating damages.

The usual members of me, Elise and the other girls, Burkhart-san, Doushi, Haruka and Takeomi-san have assembled in front of the puppets. In addition there were High Earl Mizuho and his close associates, and Kaneda-san together with his pupils who had prepared something like a small stand and placed the two sets of finished orichalcum katana on it.

Without delay Kaneda-san draws one of the orichalcum katana and displays its blade, but even Elise, who is unrelated to katana, is fascinated by its beauty. High Earl Mizuho and his retinue leaked sighs of admiration, too.

"As expected of you, Kaneda. Even compared to the work of the first Kaneda, there's nothing inferior to be found. However, what's disappointing is that those are not my katana." (Earl Mizuho)

The owner of these two sets of small and large katana was Eru. In exchange for those, the orichalcum-made sword that cut the rock golems in Herthania Valley like tofu is hanging at my waist. I switched it because I can still use swords normally.

"It's usable as magician killer, isn't it?" (Kaneda)

"Yes, it will probably be a threat for any elementary magician." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san revealed a complicated smile while looking at the shining blade.

An orichalcum katana has the power to break through a lousy [Magic Barrier]. A magic katana possesses the same trait. if it's a [Magic Barrier] deployed by an elementary magician, it's possible for them to pierce through it. If it's an orichalcum-made sword it will be difficult, but not so if it's an orichalcum katana.

I guess this technology is the biggest factor why Earl Mizuho Country preserved its uniqueness.

"Earl Baumeister, it seems that you have requested the production of a further three sets, but...." (Earl Mizuho)

"Yes." (Wendelin)

"I wonder, would you sell them to me after all?" (Earl Mizuho)

"Sell, you say? There are various things such as trade agreements that are tied after a war, right?" (Wendelin)

It was easy to merely sell it at market price, but that's brainless. But I guess as someone calling himself a noble I have to make it possess further value for the sake of the Baumeister Earldom.

'Is what Elise said, I think.' (Wendelin)

"You are gradually becoming underhanded like a noble, Earl Baumeister." (Earl Mizuho)

"After all I saw this many people die." (Wendelin)

It seems to be like that for me and my wives, but even if this civil war gets settled, it will take time to correct the striking disparity in national power between the empire and the kingdom after the war. Including the matter of us fighting in the empire while being treated as mercenaries, the number of nobles, who will treat me as enemy and try to use me, will probably increase in the kingdom as well.

The reaction of the royal family will be scary as well. That's why I believed it necessary to form a connection with the empire and Earl Mizuho Country. Seeing that I can use the orichalcum katana as tool for that, it was indispensable to sell them as highly as possible.

"Even if I forcefully demanded them now, I guess I will only offend you, Earl Baumeister." (Earl Mizuho)

While High Earl Mizuho and I are talking, Takeomi-san, who received an orichalcum katana from Kaneda-san, calmly cuts the puppets apart in a series after getting ready. The puppets that had plate mail equipped and were slashed through diagonally, exposed splendid cut ends.

"A steel plate mail cut in two equal parts...?" (Wendelin)

"That's because Takeomi is a young swordsman with a lot of expectations. He has the slight tendency to go on a rampage if it involves his younger sister though..." (Earl Mizuho)

It seems Takeomi-san's swordsmanship skills are excelling to the degree that even his lord is aware of them. At the same time it seemed like the matter of him being a sis-con was famous as well though.

"I have decided to entrust Takeomi in your care for a while, too, Earl Baumeister." (Earl Mizuho)

"What's this about?" (Wendelin)

"Do you know what Therese-dono is currently doing?" (Earl Mizuho)

"I have heard that she's at a meeting." (Wendelin)

It's wonderful that I haven't been courted thanks to that, but it appears that those meetings are a pain in the neck according to what High Earl Mizuho says.

"Of course they are also a pain in the neck for Therese-dono and Alfons." (Earl Mizuho)

Since there was no battle for around one month, young Duke Baden and the others were apparently getting more and more impatient. Gathering supporters among the other nobles as well, they seem to demand for the occupation of a part of the cities and fortresses.

"Will they commit the foolishness of splitting our military forces at this point?" (Wendelin)

"As far as them not closing in on us in this month is concerned, it's necessary to consider the possibility of a trap." (Earl Mizuho)

"What they desire are meritorious deeds and plunder?" (Wendelin)

"As expected, since it's a civil war, the pillaging of common citizens and assaults against women and children will lead to decapitation." (Earl Mizuho)

Since it's an act of an octopus eating its own feet, Therese has given out the directive that it's strictly forbidden. As young Duke Baden is aiming to become emperor as well, he will likely prevent pointlessly amassing infamy.

"However, there are exceptions." (Earl Mizuho)

There are the items looted after crushing the rebel army, and the military funds as well as the reserve goods of the rebel army. These would become reasonable earnings that can't be sneezed at.

"They seem to demand the capture of the Commercial City Halbert, 30 kilometres to the south from here. And also the strongholds in its vicinity." (Earl Mizuho)

Young Duke Baden and the other apparently wanted to advance the front to the line of the several strongholds located in the surroundings of Halbert and change this field encampment in the Great Sorbid Wastelands into a safe rear base.

Therese and Alfons are rejecting that, but there are unexpectedly many nobles approving of that aggressive plan. It seems that the currently held meeting is about that.

"Is it all right for you to not participate, High Earl Mizuho?" (Wendelin)

"We have been totally left out." (Earl Mizuho)

The hard fighting of the samurai resounding even in the legends, the highly offensive power due to the magic katana and magic guns, the quality and quantity of magicians that isn't inferior at all; the Earl Mizuho Country's national army that obtained many achievements thanks to the powerful cavalry in the pursuit battle, was told to hold back this time by young Duke Baden.

"It's not like I want to become emperor either though." (Earl Mizuho)

"It might be about things like the division of territory after the war, I guess." (Wendelin)

Something bitter shadowed the face of High Earl Mizuho for an instant. Therese promised an increase of territory to Earl Mizuho Country for entering the war.

Also, there's the appointment as prince-elector household. This can be seen as honour, but it's also something tying Earl Mizuho Country to the empire.

It seems they will be politely given a territory facing the sea. That should be something delightful for the Mizuho people who love marine products, but as it will at the same time increase the territory they have to protect besides the Akitsu Basin, defence will become troublesome.

There's also the problem of ruling the people living in the new territory. Because there will be different races, it will cause various troublesome matters. Their true opinion is that they want to refuse it, but there's no way they can do that either. It's probably a delicate situation for High Earl Mizuho.

"That means that times are changing, but the consideration of how to advance the changes is difficult..." (Earl Mizuho)

It means that difficult times in his leadership are closing in on High Earl Mizuho. No matter whether they win or lose, the increase in work for royalty and nobles was bothersome.

"It's dangerous to make light of Therese-dono just because she's a woman. But I wonder whether she will be able to dismiss the aggressive plan of young Duke Baden and his supporters." (Earl Mizuho)

Before I noticed, the testing of the new orichalcum katana switched over to Haruka.

It appears that her skills are slightly inferior to those of Takeomi-san, but there's no doubt that she's an expert. As if she's cutting paper, she cut a puppet wearing full plate right in half.

"The younger sister possesses good skills as well. She might be the most suited as your guard, Earl Baumeister." (Earl Mizuho)

"It seems that she's been a guard before, but is there some work for us as well?" (Wendelin)

"That's very likely. Good grief, although it will be fine if we attack with just us...." (Earl Mizuho)

Concluding the testing of the new katana safely, it was decided that Eru and Haruka will use the two sets of orichalcum katana. Since another set will be finished in three days, I planned to lend it to Takeomi-san who would accompany me.

"Even just lending is wonderful." (Takeomi)

Takeomi-san was very happy, but his face becomes frightening once he sees Eru after all. If a sis-con can be aggravated up to this point, it might be splendid in a certain sense.

And, just as High Earl Mizuho has said, once we returned to our house, Therese lied in wait there while wearing a regretful expression.

"Sorry. I couldn't ward off the opposition." (Therese)

"Is it our turn as well?" (Wendelin)

"Together with the Earl Mizuho Country's national army. The target is the Talberg Mountain Fortress." (Therese)

Therese-sama spread a map on the table.

"Its location is around 20 km to the south-east from here. It's a stronghold located on top of a trapezoid-shaped mountain with an altitude of around 600 meters." (Therese)

"The main target, the commercial city, is the target of young Duke Baden and his followers?" (Wendelin)

Monopolizing the flashy military gains to themselves, they apparently managed to push the bonus-like fortress to us. Though, before that, I couldn't detect the meaning in capturing that fortress.

"Time for mountain climbing?"

"Aren't there any other fortresses, considering Burkhart-san's age?" (Erwin)

"Don't treat others like old people!" (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san's fist drops on the head of Eru who said something unnecessary.

"Judging it just from the map, I can't find any military significance or such, but..." (Armstrong)

Even Doushi seems unable to grasp the intention behind capturing the Talberg Mountain Fortress.

"This fortress was a front-line base at the time when the empire was capturing the north."

Having fulfilled its role, it's nowadays existing as measure against brigands.

"Be that as it may, brigands don't appear on the northern highway. It's to the degree of a robber appearing once in a while." (Therese)

Since there's a constant patrol of guards, it has conversely become easy to be caught by brigands who formed an alliance with conspirators. So, if you ask why this fortress exists...

"If it's left alone, strange folks will settle in there. And it belongs to the imperial army. They objected towards the reduction of posts." (Therese)

Since being commander of the Talberg Mountain Fortress is an important post, there has been large opposition within the army when they tried to get rid of it. Due to the strong resistance from within the army against lowering the posts they have been appointed to, they couldn't cut it off until now.

"It's similar to a story I heard somewhere else."

"Anyone can understand that it's a waste of military budget, but they are reluctant that their own posts and wages will disappear due to the reduction."

There seems to be no difference between the kingdom and the empire in this regard.

"Besides, it's not like there's no use for it in the current war situation."

Going by its location, it's possible to apply tactics such as cutting the supply line and dispatching soldiers from there once we advance towards the imperial capital, Therese explains. Therefore it's necessary to place guards there after occupying it once, she says.

"That young Duke Baden isn't a terrible idiot either." (Katharina)

"He has ordinary ability befitting the heir of a Duke household. That's why it's troublesome in reverse." (Therese)

Therese showed a baffled expression due to Katharina's wicked tongue.

In reality, he has formed a group that might be called his own faction approving of his aggressive plan in a short time.

"So, you are telling us to capture it by ourselves?" (Wendelin)

"Of course not. It will be a joint operation with us." (Therese)

In the previous battle at the field encampment in the Great Sorbid Wastelands the achievements of the Mizuho national army, who even unleashed its new weapon, the magic guns, were enormous. Apparently that's why they have been removed from the responsibility of capturing Halbart which is the main target.

"We will send around 1500 troops. I will leave the command to my younger brother, but I don't want to incur any losses as much as possible." (Therese)

According to the reconnaissance personally sent out by High Earl Mizuho, there were apparently around 100 guards originally stationed in the Talberg Mountain Fortress, but it seems that Duke Nürnberg has already sent an additional reinforcement of 100 soldiers.

The Talberg Mountain Fortress is on the summit of the Talberg Mountain, allowing an invasion only on the mountain road continuing towards the summit. The fortress' front gate is only accessible from that mountain road. The rest of the fortress is surrounded by precipitous cliffs, according to the previous information.

"It looks like there will be losses."

"True."

The guards number 200 and there are no magicians. It's not like the guards are elites either. But, if we were to foolishly storm the fortress' front gate with 1500 soldiers, that will probably cause heavy losses to arrows and such.

"How about shooting them with magic guns?"

"Although it depends on the distance, it's still impossible to snipe precisely. With the effect range being around 100 meters, that much is also in the counter-attack range of crossbows and longbows."

High Earl Mizuho likely doesn't want to suffer losses in a siege battle over a small fortress that hasn't much significance. There's still the decisive battle against Duke Nürnberg after all.

"I guess there's no other choice but to somehow handle it with magic." (Wendelin)

"I request that by all means. As for the reward, Therese-dono said that she will add something special." (Earl Mizuho)

"Haa..." (Wendelin)

I dislike working for free, but in Therese's case it highly likely that she will say something like, "I will pay with my own body."

As a man it might be considered as acceptable, but as war reward I feel like that's too cheap. Instead, if you think about the demerits, it's actually a loss, I think.

"Earl Baumeister, Therese-dono likes you quite a bit. It's difficult to match each other's positions, isn't it?" (Earl Mizuho)

"Yes."

"She's a beautiful woman if it weren't for her being a Duchess though."

* * *

Two days later after we performed the sword testing, a mixed army of 15.000 soldiers led by young Duke Baden and ten-odd nobles sortied to capture Halbert. In addition the nobles also dispatched around 10.000 soldiers to take bases and strongholds in four places. The Mizuho national army and us were dispatched together with the soldiers to capture the Talberg Mountain Fortress as last.

Therese stays back at the field encampment in the Great Sorbid Wastelands together with around 30.000 soldiers that were obtained as additional reinforcements from the rear. She was apparently told to not advance to the front by young Duke Baden since she's the supreme commander, but there's the scramble for achievements and it seems that he dislikes her trying to depart to the battlefield since she's a female family head.

"We will take it quickly and return?"

According to the reconnaissance, it's planned for us to capture this place easily with the dispatched forces. But, it doesn't change the fact that our military forces have been split up.

There's even the possibility of us losing after suffering an unexpected surprise attack. It was necessary to capture the Talberg Mountain Fortress swiftly by ourselves and to prepare for that.

"Wilma, how's the new prototype magic gun?" (Wendelin)

"Won't know until using it." (Wilma)

The march to the Talberg Mountain Fortress finished in a full two days.

The Mizuho national army was on standby at a place where the arrows from the the fortress' front gate won't reach and just now we sent a messenger to advice them to surrender.

It might be fortunate that there was no surprise attacks yet, but there's also the reason that they won't be able to stage a surprise attack anyway because there's no other means of attack except by using the mountain road. Since there won't be any dead or injured if they surrender obediently, there's no loss in trying.

"We are thankful for your recommendation to surrender, but our orders are to defend to the last man."

But then again we ended up getting splendidly declined by the fortress' defence commander in such way.

"I wondered whether I will snipe them with magic, but I never expected for there to be such prototype." (Wilma)

Asking Wilma about her condition was because it was a prototype magic gun I had borrowed from High Earl Mizuho.

Its barrel is long, and it has a scope for aiming and rifling that has been attempted for the first time. The gunstock's shape has been improved as well.

Theoretically it seems to be possible to snipe a target at a distance of around 300 meters, but this magic sniping gun was a so-called defective product. You can't shoot more than once with the magic gem provided due to its bad efficiency on the mana consumption.

"Vel-sama, using this or shooting with magic, which is more efficient?" (Wilma)

"As a matter of fact it's this prototype sniper rifle." (Wendelin)

Although it would be fine to fire my own nut-shaped bullets with tungsten content with magic just like before, the mana consumption will become large if it's sniping at this distance.

I pondered whether I should loose off shells with large-scale magic, but it won't accomplish its meaning as defensive base if we don't hand it over to the following guards after capturing it without damaging it as much as possible.

Accordingly it resulted in me entrusting it to Wilma who is familiar with the treatment of weapons by supplying mana to her.

Actually magic guns have also been lent to Eru, Haruka and Takeomi-san.

Since they were a loan, we couldn't keep them, but since they will become unusable without their regular secret maintenance anyway, there should be no meaning in keeping them either. The other day young Duke Baden and his followers looked regretful as they failed in obtaining magic guns.

"Vel-sama, whom do I target?" (Wilma)

"Umm..." (Wendelin)

Wilma and I fell back slightly behind Mizuho's national army and observed the state of the fortress with binoculars and scope on top of a huge rock that was off the mountain road.

On top of the walls around 50 soldiers have prepared their bows and are setting up ballistae for defence. And there were several commanding officers giving them orders as well as their subordinates.

"First the commander, I suppose." (Wendelin)

"Affirmative. I will try shooting him first." (Wilma)

Wilma displayed ability matching the warriors of the Mizuho national army's magic gun squad that had been present at the previous test firing, but this time she will aim at a human and not an artificial target. It was also possible that she will fail after getting shaken unexpectedly.

"Are you all right?" (Wendelin)

"Yes." (Wilma)

"Don't force yourself." (Wendelin)

"I'm your wife and also your spear and shield, Vel-sama. That's why I will be fine." (Wilma)

Wilma continues her unusual speech while setting up the magic sniping gun.

"Vel-sama, you created a place and time where I can enjoy myself." (Wilma)

Wilma couldn't marry into a normal noble household due to her Hero Syndrome. Luckily she was picked up by Minister Edgar, but I guess it would still be difficult for her to marry anyone besides me.

No matter how much physical strength she possesses, she won't be able to serve in the current royal army. Therefore she would have no other choice but to earn the money for her own food expenses as adventurer or by working behind the scenes as protege hidden by Minister Edgar.

"If I'm together with you, every day is fun, Vel-sama. Therefore I will dye my body with the sin of killing people, whose faces I don't know, to protect this place I call home. I will egotistically kill people for the sake of those who know you and me, Vel-sama." (Wilma)

"I see. Truth to be told, I'm the same as well." (Wendelin)

I will kill Duke Nürnberg, who has staged a rebellion and is freely using a device that blocks my sole prided magic, and then I will destroy that device. For that reason I'm continuing after having already killed several hundred people.

"It also the same for Eru, Elise-sama, Ina, Luise and Katharina." (Wilma)

They probably became my friends out of selfish interests at first, but now we are sharing a common destiny. Therefore even Elise has accompanied us to the capture of the Talberg Mountain Fortress.

"Let's finish this quickly and think up a menu for dinner, okay?" (Wendelin)

"That's nice." (Wilma)

Wilma loads a bullet that had its size adjusted by me into the sniper rifle.

All magic guns are loaded from the front. The bullets themselves are round just like those of matchlocks. However, since a round ball is useless for rifling, I matched the chinquapin nut shaped bullet, that I use to make them fly with mana, with the gun barrel by adjusting its size with magic.

"It enters smoothly." (Wilma)

Wilma loaded the gun barrel with a bullet she received from me.

Putting aside the gun barrel, there are many strange contrivances in the magic gun. Since the bullet is fired with mana instead of gunpowder, the magic gem has been completely embedded. The bullet will be discharged once the trigger is pulled, but I don't understand why the bullet is fired by mana if you pull the trigger.

Until now the research of similar items should have been carried out by both countries, but it not being completed might come from the difficulty of the contrivances within.

"The magic contrivance that fires the bullet once the trigger is pulled is unknown."

If it's gunpowder, it explodes once ignited, but since it's an artificial reproduction of a contrivance that transforms magic to fire the bullet with mana that had been stored in the magic gem, it was a complete riddle for me as magician. This is probably the reason why Duke Nürnberg is cautious of Earl Mizuho Country that resolved this.

"I can fire the bullet at any time now." (Wilma)

"Just as you have said, Wilma. We will finish them off starting with the commanding officers." (Wendelin)

I confirmed the figure of the defence commander, who is giving orders on top of the fortress' wall, with my binoculars. There are also his aides and commanding officers, but they will be treated as targets as well.

"Let's weaken their morale by killing their superiors. After all that's the most efficient method. There won't be any pointless victims either."

"Got it."

When Wilma, who had prepared the magic sniping gun, pulls the trigger, the defence commander, who was reflected in my binoculars, gets vigorously blown away to the rear and collapses.

His aides, who were next to him, tried to save him in a hurry, but considering that Wilma has little experience in sniping, it was accurate.

Watching their superior die after getting hit in the head by a bullet and spurting out blood and grey matter, they were apparently trembling in fear,

"Wilma." (Wendelin)

"Next." (Wilma)

Next she picks an adjutant-like person, two commanding officers and a man, who is ordering around the archer unit slightly away, as targets. All of them were hit in their head or torso and they died instantly or became incapable of fighting.

"The gun barrel is..."

Due to strange circumstances, the magic gun will have its gun barrel heat up after shooting around five shots and won't be able to fire any further until the barrel cools down.

The Mizuho national army forcefully cools them by sprinkling water on them, but the magic sniping gun that I had given Wilma cooled down swiftly due to a [Cooling] spell. With this there's also no worry for the gun barrel to become wet.

"Next is the personnel operating the ballistae."

Wilma continues the shooting and picks the soldiers handling the ballistae on top of the walls next.

At first relief personnel rushes over immediately once one of them gets shot, but realizing that they will be shot if they move there, before long no one approaches the ballistae anymore.

Next the sniping of the archers starts. Once three of them were killed, all of the remaining archers tossed their bows away and escaped from atop the wall.

There was also a soldier stopping them, but since he wasn't an overly distinguished person, no one listened to him. That's because the majority of the important people had already departed from this world.

"Vel-sama, there are no people left to shoot at." (Wilma)

"Well, it looks like it's not necessary anymore."

Having one-sidedly killed their important people from a long distance, there are no stratagems they can accomplish by themselves. With their morale crushed, several white flags fluttered in the wind on the walls.

"Did they capitulate?"

Like this we were successful in capturing the Talberg Mountain Fortress without a single casualty among our allies.

* * *

"This is a success? No, it's probably a blunder...." (Wendelin)

"But, Vel, the fortress fell normally." (Erwin)

"It's as Eru-san says. Moreover, the casualties among our allies are zero." (Haruka)

"Just as mentioned by Haruka-san, zero casualties is wonderful." (Erwin)

The Talberg Mountain Fortress that had raised white flags, was occupied by the Mizuho national army without any particular disorder.

Their leaders below the commanding officer were defeated albeit by sniping. We succeeded in neutralizing the ballistae and archer unit that would have likely become the main cause for casualties appearing if we carried out a siege battle. And as an extra the Talberg Mountain Fortress had no damages and thus needed no repairs.

Although we had the biggest achievements here, the one who will actually fork out a reward is Therese. That's because we are mercenaries that had been employed by Therese.

Since we are accompanied by military officers who record the distinguished war services for the time being, it shouldn't result in a falsification of the merits of wars and rewards.

The expression of the branch family's head Toyotsuge Tamura Mizuho-san, who is the younger brother of High Earl Mizuho and who leads the Mizuho national army, is grim, but that doesn't mean that he's jealous of my accomplishments. He's displeased for another reason.

"We got screwed over." (Toyotsuge)

"Indeed. The storehouse was empty." (???)

The privilege to the stuff like the storehouse located in the Talberg Mountain Fortress and the activity funds in the safe that should be located in the main building has been handed over to Mizuho national army, but when Toyotsuge-san had his retainers examine those places, there was apparently almost nothing in them. Even the storehouse that kept the provisions hadn't stored anything but the share of one week's food for the guards.

"Screwed over?" (Erwin)

"That's right. Is it normal to leave behind food for around a week in the emergency stores of a fortress located in the mountains?"

"However, it was a mountain fortress with no particular bandits or such in the vicinity, right?" (Erwin)

"It seems to be a fortress for the sake of preserving posts, but now it has become a defence base of the rebel army. Usually they would at least carry in some food, no? Besides, ordinarily one won't supply goods to just scrape along on such a summit. It will just cause expenses after all." (Burkhart)

Eru showed his consent towards Burkhart-san's conjecture.

"The issue beyond this would be the other bases doing the same." (Armstrong)

"Uncle-sama, do you mean that it's a trap to lure us in?" (Elise)

Since there were only casualties of the enemy army after the battle, Elise was together with Doushi as there was no necessity for her to use healing magic.

Even Ina and the others are here since they had nothing in particular to do, but the talk we had started to waste some time is gradually turning grave.

"Were our allies lured in by them deliberately keeping the storage of materials and provisions low and thinning out the defence?" (Ina)

"It's probably just as you are expecting, Ina."

We were able to capture it easily, but if we consider the food and materials consumed by our side who had dispatched soldiers on this occasion, we are in the red.

At any rate, we could only secure a little amount of food. Even so, if we can maintain the city and strongholds we captured, it will balance out, but as it will be necessary to replenish those, it will cost money as well.

"Or rather, we might get surrounded in a state of lacking food before that, right?" (Luise)

As Luise says, since we hurriedly went on the offensive, we don't possess many provisions.

It was decided to leave that to the supply unit that followed us in a delayed fashion, but we won't be able to do anything if the rebel army severs our supply line. Even if we try to protect that supply unit, it might be the end once we get surrounded by the enemy army while in the fortress.

Especially this Talberg Mountain Fortress is a stronghold that is by all rights easy to defend solidly. That's because there's only one route to capture the summit, but if you turn that around, we will lose our way out once that mountain road gets blocked.

"There's only food for 200 people for a week, and it's not like we have that much on hand either." (Wilma)

Wilma doesn't state anything but the truth.

But in reverse you could say that the situation got severe.

There was a bad premonition popping up in my mind, but it immediately turned into reality.

"Wendelin-san!" (Katharina)

Katharina, who was on watch on top of the wall, rushed our way in a great hurry.

"It seems that we have been surrounded by the rebel army." (Katharina)

"As expected, eh..." (Wendelin)

As if estimating the time when we would capture the Talberg Mountain Fortress, Katharina reports that a great number of rebel soldiers had appeared on the mountain road in front of the main gate.

"In other words, we lost our way out." (Wendelin)

The numbers of the rebel army should be higher than those of our allies, but they most likely won't come attacking unreasonably. That's because they are expecting us to have no leeway in our food situation.

If they wait while only blocking the mountain road, our side will exhaust its food reserves in around a week. Even if Therese tries to send supplies, those are bound to not arrive either.

"With us, who are stuck in the Talberg Mountain Fortress, as extreme example, it's inevitable for our allies, who headed to the other capture targets, to lose, isn't it?"

It's possible that the other fortress capture units are experiencing the same situation as us. The Halbart capture group around young Duke Baden might have been surrounded by a simply superior rebel army. It seems possible that the even the previous crushing victory will come to nothing with this time's defeat.

"That damned Therese. She couldn't reign in that young Duke Baden." (Wendelin)

He had done something foolish, but it would be unfavourable if young Duke Baden and his followers get killed just like that. However, currently we have to do our best about our own troubles.

"We will discuss the response with Toyotsuge-dono. However, it will be awkward, I guess." (Wendelin)

On top of not knowing the numbers of the rebel army outside, there's the danger of increasing the casualties all the more if we move unskilfully.

We hurry to Toyotsuge-dono's location.

It's in order to procure just the slightest information about the enemy army besieging us.

Chapter 89: Tactical victory, strategic defeat

One week after we captured the Talberg Mountain Fortress we were still besieged by fresh forces of the rebel army.

The number of rebels encircling us over here is around 10.000 in estimation.

Without starting a siege battle, they at first sent a messenger to demand our capitulation following etiquette. Next they examined our side from outside the range of Wilma's magic sniper rifle.

The reason for that is probably because many magicians with a lot of mana were sniped one after the other by Wilma who should be someone that kills in such way for the first time.

Of course superior magicians tried to defend with [Magic Barrier], but with me stacking [Burst] onto the bullets, their barriers were penetrated and erased.

Many of them passed away by getting their heads pulverized. The remaining magicians launched spells in retaliation, but those were blocked by Burkhart-san, Doushi and the magicians of the Mizuho national army. Because our side devoted itself to defence, with the exception of the sniping, it turned into a far more disadvantageous situation for the rebel army's magicians.

As they didn't have any high-ranking magicians to begin with, the rebel army that lost in the magic battle retreated outside the magic sniper rifle's range and returned to its original plan of besieging us.

"They are not coming any closer, right?" (Takeomi)

"They will storm the fortress after starving and weakening us. Or they will demand surrender, I guess." (Wendelin)

As I'm looking at the enemy army in the distance from atop the wall together with Takeomi-san, they don't move. Since they are calculating that our food will be used up soon, their plan is probably to avoid acting unreasonably.

The one who was currently following me was Haruka's elder brother, Takeomi-san. This person was quite decent as long as his younger sister wasn't involved. There's nothing strange about this statement whatsoever.

"But then again, we haven't used up our food, but......" (Wendelin)

It was unknown whether Therese made me participate due to foreseeing this situation, but we pulled through the shortage with the food stored away in my magic bag.

"Earl-sama, you are carrying a large amount of food, right? Didn't you return the share of Margrave Breithilde's expedition in the past?" (Burkhart)

"It's just stuff that piled up after buying it." (Wendelin)

"Is that what you call, as long as one is prepared...." (Burkhart)

"Burkhart-san, how about you?" (Wendelin)

"Me, Doushi and Katharina-jou-chan got at least our own shares covered." (Burkhart)

I don't know what other people own. At any rate, there's no problem with me stockpiling it since it won't spoil. Besides, if you have money, it will cause one to buy impulsively after all.

There are also the things I haven't sold off like the ingredients we obtained by hunting and gathering in the Demon Forest. I bought a large amount of food after coming to the empire as well. Thanks to that, our allies aren't starving at the moment. It's likely owed to me being taught by master to maintain a large amount of food in my magic bag.

However, it's only overwhelmingly a lot for a single individual. When it comes to feeding 1500 people, it would sooner or later hit the limit.

"Even so, it's amazing since you let 1500 people eat for more than a week." (Takeomi)

"I'm the type who doesn't take food lightly." (Wendelin)

"I do understand that after seeing this." (Takeomi)

There's also the food we brought along with the army to begin with and the little bit of food left behind in the fortress, but as expected, one more week will probably be the limit.

According to the strategic plan, it was scheduled for food and dedicated guards to arrive here right after we captured the fortress, but it was unthinkable for them to get through with this perfect encirclement.

"I guess they will realize it any time now?" (Wendelin)

"They shouldn't notice it for a few more days." (Takeomi)

If it doesn't concern his younger sister, Takeomi-san is usually an excellent subordinate and swordsman.

The reason for us acting as if we are running low on food is to trigger a needless offensive once they think that they have leeway to do so. It might be wrong if we don't fight them eventually, but currently it was necessary to prepare for a fortress defence battle first.

This Talberg Mountain Fortress apparently didn't receive much of a budget. Contrary to its appearance from far away, it has worrying parts in its defence capabilities due to the lack of maintenance. I got stuck fixing various of those with my magic.

"They shouldn't have been suspicious of us at the occasion when we returned the prisoners." (Wendelin)

At the time when we got surrounded by the rebel army in the beginning, we released everyone that became a prisoner in the previous siege battle. Even if they stayed here, they would be a hassle to take care of. After all they would also consume food.

Given that it was an unconditional release, Toyotsugu-san gave the commander of the rebel army a him befitting vocal message of, "It's an expression of respect towards the soldiers of the enemy army that fought bravely", but the enemy army very likely believed that we considered the prisoners, who would pointlessly consume our food, as burden.

Since we sent them back without asking for ransom or a prisoner exchange, the other side should believe that we made a bitter decision in order to lower the food consumption.

"We have to throw them off guard a bit more, I guess." (Wendelin)

Due to the fact of us being besieged by the rebel army that appeared right after we occupied the Talberg Mountain Fortress, the same thing should have happened in the other occupied territories. Without a doubt Therese has to send out soldiers as rear guard.

It's highly likely that we will be put off going by priority and numbers of military forces. In that case gaining time might be the best plan.

"She will probably prioritize young Duke Baden and his followers." (Wendelin)

"Yes...." (Takeomi)

It's young Duke Baden that destroyed himself after proposing an excessively aggressive plan, but since he's an influential ally, she can't let him die without helping either.

If he died in action, there was the possibility of the Duke Baden household changing to the rebel army's side in fear of the safety of Duke Baden who's said to have been captured by Duke Nürnberg.

"Besides, this place won't fall that quickly." (Takeomi)

"True." (Wendelin)

When the two of us went to the Mizuho national army's encampment after descending from the wall that had already been repaired and reinforced, Toyotsugu-san and the top brass under him were having a meal. The menu consists of something resembling vegetables and meat in soy sauce with grilled bread. Also, in addition to this, I provided them with chocolate and native fruits of the Demon Forest.

Commonly there's a great difference in army meals between soldiers and those above knights. It seems there are even some among the nobles that bring their own cooks along, but now everyone was taking the same meal.

Since it's a fortress defence battle where the mental condition and morale of the soldiers will be important, it's possible for us to suffer an unforeseen defeat if only the top brass eats delicious food and drinks alcohol.

"I want to eat fish, you know." (???)

"I want to have my fill on drinks after quickly beating and killing that bunch." (???)

"I think it's already a luxury that we can eat decently. If it wasn't for Earl Baumeister-sama, we would have run out of food by now." (???)

The top brass of the Mizuho army eats their provided food quickly. Since we are in a war, it seems to be crucial etiquette to eat swiftly.

"It looks like we will be provided with rice tomorrow?" (Toyotsugu)

"Yes, though it's the southern rice......" (Wendelin)

I answer Toyotsugu-san's question.

It was the rice originating from Breitburg which I considered as delicious at the time when I first obtained it in my childhood, but if you compare it to the rice domestically produced in Earl Mizuho Country, its taste loses out no matter what.

Given that the south has a mild climate and an abundance of water, it's possible to harvest twice a year, but compared to the north that can't grow rice more than once a year, it's inferior in taste. Rice becomes delicious with an extreme variation between hot and cold temperatures. This is something I've heard often in my time as salary man.

The evaluation of rice from Niigata and the Tohoku region is high. Such is also the reason why the rice of western Japan isn't that famous. In addition there's also the influence of water quality. But this is also better on the side of Earl Mizuho Country that can use thawed water.

Moreover, although the yield will drop, it's actually easy to improve the taste of rice by growing it in mountainous areas. In reality the rice that has been cultivated in the mountains among the rice produced in Earl Mizuho Country had a higher price with its low amount of yield.

I bought it as well. When I tried to cook it as test, it was really delicious. It was completely as if eating Koshihikari.

(T/N: rice sort, google it if you want)

On the other hand its price is two shu per 10 kilogram, 20.000 yen in Japanese currency (Around $180). It seems that it reached this price since it's being exported to the empire as high-class food.

"I won't complain as long as I can eat rice. Besides, I'd like to thank you for even providing alcohol for us." (Toyotsugu)

As one-time exception, I provided one cup worth of alcohol to all of them.

It was something similar to rum that I had forcibly brewed with magic using sugar of which I possessed large amounts as ingredient, but it was popular among the soldiers who were unable to prepare alcohol due to the sudden fortress defence battle.

"The truth is that I have various others as well, but..." (Wendelin)

All of the alcoholic drinks that I couldn't share with all soldiers had been sealed away. After all we would incur the soldiers' displeasure if we ate the delicious things only among ourselves.

Given that discord inside a closed-off space such as a fortress defence battle will explosively spread from the most trivial things, the act of just the leaders drinking alcohol or eating special dishes had been prohibited.

"Though in my heart I want to drink your treasured wine even if I have to buy it for five times the market price, Earl Baumeister-sama. Let's do that after cutting our way out from here." (Toyotsugu)

"If we get through this, I will sell it a lot more cheaply. No, I will offer you one for free." (Wendelin)

"That's appreciated. Let's rampage around in proportion to that wine later." (Toyotsugu)

Besides, it has actually produced profits already.

The majority of the food necessary for holding the fortress was provided by me, but it's definitely not for free. I will send all the claims to Therese. That sum of money will be considerably higher than the market price. After all I will charge her while adding a transportation fee.

"Vel, is it really no problem to go with three times the market price?" (Ina)

Ina, who is keeping the account book of the provided food as it's necessary to write down the bills, asked for confirmation due to my instructions. She's most likely considering it to be too much of a rip-off.

"It's Therese's error that invited this situation." (Wendelin)

The failure of providing supplies is the duty of the supreme commander, Therese, who should take responsibility for it. Because it's me who has to clean up her mess, it's only natural for the remuneration to have an increased amount. Besides, it's not good for Therese to create too many debts towards me.

"It would be better for me to be considered a stingy man despite having achieved military gains by the other retainers and nobles." (Wendelin)

It's a precaution so that the other side won't think of lending and borrowing as they please.

Looking at the war progress so far, Therese will likely be stuck suffering with the reorganization of the empire's domestic affairs for a while even if she wins. For that empire it would be troublesome if they consider me getting involved with it.

A person who takes their reward greedily as mercenary is actual of more benefit to her.

"Since it's Therese-sama, I believe that she will understand your intentions, Vel, but she will likely cry about the piled-up expenses." (Ina)

"I won't take responsibility for it to that extent." (Wendelin)

Such arguments exist as well. Therese should be quite troubled in working out a reward for us.

If she unskilfully assigns territory or concessions to us, there will be opposition in her surroundings. If she changes it into a loan, she will end up increasing her debt towards us. Therese has the obligation to pay the reward to us in one batch.

"For the people of Earl Mizuho Country, the state of the empire's government being somewhat weakened is convenient." (Wendelin)

Although it's a protectorate, seeing that there are too many people like Duke Nürnberg, it's wrong for Earl Mizuho Country to always exist as imaginary enemy for the empire. Even in the current joint army, by no means did they participate just out of good will.

"Anyhow, we won't be able to receive that reward if we can't win." (Wendelin)

"Certainly, there's no point if we don't win." (Ina)

* * *

Several days after that talk, the rebel army finally made its move.

As if checking the situation little by little, they climbed the mountain road directly in front of the Talberg Mountain Fortress' gate. Influenced by the width of the mountain road, the number of military forces that can attack simultaneously in front of the gate is around 2000 people, I suppose.

However, if they can attack in turns, there was the danger of the rebel army capturing the fort since they had 10.000 soldiers.

"The magicians are getting a VIP protection...?" (Luise)

Being vigilant of Wilma's previous sniping, they, who had their numbers decreased, were assigned to act as guards for nobles and such.

Once I observe their military forces in detail, I can see that they are a mixed army of feudal armies that joined the rebel army. Having personally seen the last moments of the magicians that got sniped, they seem to devote themselves to their own protection.

"They are not wrong. After all it's troublesome if a noble family head dies." (Wendelin)

It's inevitable for the feudal army to fall into disorder once its top vanishes.

There are also many who end up being regarded as only trying to avoid getting wounded or killed by themselves, but since that might be because of the difference in their conduct until now, I can't say anything about it.

"What will you do, Vel?" (Luise)

"I will test my new weapon." (Wendelin)

"Is it fine if I throw this huge jute bag?" (Luise)

"I leave it to your superhuman strength, Luise." (Wendelin)

"As I'm only increasing my power with magic, it's not like I'm usually that strong though..." (Luise)

It seemed that she was a bit unhappy with me treating her as possessor of superhuman strength, but Luise threw the spherical jute bag that was prepared below her feet with its diameter of one meter towards the marching enemy army.

The soldiers hurriedly evaded the jute bag that flew several hundred meters after getting boosted with mana, but I ignited the jute bag just before it hit the ground with magic.

The jute bag caused a huge explosion originating from its centre. As it was stuffed with things like bullets prepared by me, sharp rock fragments and metal pieces that have no other use but getting melted down, those were scattered into the surroundings and many soldiers became victims to them.

In regards to its power, the fragments that flew towards nobles were blocked by the [Magic Barriers] of the guarding magicians, but it's not like the nobles are the targets.

By wounding and killing as many soldiers as possible, it turned into a situation of them giving up on a siege battle.

"I ended up throwing all of them." (Luise)

"It's that kind of weapon. It has an amazing power." (Wendelin)

The total number of prepared jute bags with fragments in them was 10. All of them exploded close to marching soldiers and caused many victims. There weren't that many dead, but there are many soldiers wounded by the fragments. The heavily injured soldiers are safe and they get pulled back to the rear by the lightly injured soldiers.

"They won't be able to participate in the attack until their treatment finishes." (Wendelin)

In addition it will increase the burden on the campaign priests who shouldn't have been replenished overly much.

If they bolster the attack unreasonably before they can recover their mana after having lost it due to the many injured, it's easy to expect that they won't be able to save the wounded as they won't be able to heal them.

It was something we prepared for the sole reason of stalling. Given that there have been definitely casualties above the three-digits, it was effective, even as offensive weapon.

"Vel, you are vicious, aren't you?" (Luise)

"Uh huh. I will receive those words as praise." (Wendelin)

"As a husband you are quite reliable, I guess. But why did those explode?" (Luise)

"I used unused magic stones scraps." (Wendelin)

If it's on Earth, one would likely use gunpowder, but I don't possess the knowledge how to manufacture gunpowder.

I feel like I heard that the materials are charcoal, sulphur and saltpetre, but the actual mixture of those is difficult. It will be troublesome if I cause a detonation during the mixing. Besides, why should I, who can use magic in this world predominated by magic, have to popularize gunpowder?

It couldn't be helped if someone invented it, but in reality I don't have any worries on that side. That's because of the magic guns that shoot mana bullets implemented by Earl Mizuho Country.

There's no doubt that both countries will devote all their effort on spreading these.

"Magic stones, you say?" (Luise)

"It's necessary to meddle with them a bit though." (Wendelin)

Among the magic stones that can be obtained by hunting monsters there are many which don't fetch much of a price because they have too little mana within them or are too small.

There's also the way of treating them as consumable goods just like firewood and charcoal for the production of magic tools, but since there isn't that much demand for that, the adventurer's guild doesn't pay much for them.

It seems there was a technology to create magic gems from a large amount of magic stones scraps during the era of the Ancient Magic Civilization, but unfortunately that's still being researched for now.

It's not like the magic tool guild and the sorcery guild have increased their demand in regards to the quantity in order to experiment on it. Thus I pointlessly stored away the magic stone scraps I gathered.

Putting these magic stone scraps into a jute bag and creating a core of a size around that of a dodge ball, I have altered the property of their mana by casting the [Tuning] spell.

Next I created a big bag by placing the previous jute bag with the magic stone scraps bag in the middle and filling up the rest of the space with stones, iron scraps and bullets. After throwing it to a distant place, explosion magic is cast on it at just the right moment.

It's something that's aiming for the same effect as a burst bullet, but what becomes the key here is the [Tuning] of mana. I use [Tuning] on the mana properties of the magic stone scraps which are slightly different from my own mana's.

Once I do this, the magic capacity of the magic stone scraps becomes around half of before, but if I don't do this, I won't be able to ignite them from a further distance.

It can be regarded as a fishy method, but since my opponent in war is currently a large army I want to economize on my mana as much as possible. If it's this method, I can save a far bigger amount of mana than firing spells from a distance with the same amount of mana.

"I also think that it's fine as long as it's usable." (Armstrong)

Doushi who can't use [High-Speed Flight] due to the blockade of movement magic, boosted his physical strength with mana and continued to throw stones. He has likely chosen that method because there are as many throwable stones as he wishes. Soldiers directly hit by a stone stopped moving, but the efficiency isn't really that good.

Doushi currently didn't use the snake-emitting spell as its mana consumption is intense in relation to its power. He's probably considering throwing stones as sufficient since there's still a distance to the rebel army.

"Those guys won't stop their advance, will they?" (Burkhart)

Even while suffering several hundred casualties due to Doushi's stone throwing and my self-made explosion balls, the rebel army is gradually approaching the main gate.

The nobles don't have any sense of impending danger since they are protected by [Magic Barriers] cast by the few magicians. It looks like they intend to continue to attack.

While Burkhart-san strengthens the attacks of our allies' archers with magic, he observes the movements of those magicians.

"I guess the magicians won't shift to offence?" (Wendelin)

"The nobles are not a bunch that will give an order to attack to the degree of losing their own protection." (Burkhart)

The skill and equipment of the mixed units of the rebel army are inferior to that of the imperial army and the mixed units of the prince-electors' feudal armies we battled before.

While we are at it, they don't seem to be used to the command chain of military forces either. They might believe that they will win if they simply flood the main gate with large numbers.

"The other side is heartless as well, I guess." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san shows a stunned expression.

Our allies are working diligently even though Therese has taken full command. The rebel army seems like it's completely grasping the supremacy of Duke Nürnberg at first glance, but although the influence of annoying nobles and the imperial army's staff has fallen, they are led, no, forced to attack unreasonably without sparing any victims.

For Duke Nürnberg that's convenient as it will be great if his enemies get reduced, and even if that doesn't happen, they will end up losing power by suffering casualties.

"On a short term, it's a good move, but...." (Burkhart)

"On long term it's the worst, right?" (Wendelin)

It will require a large amount of time and money to recover from the casualties after all. Though he might intend to reform things after the destruction.

"Wendelin-san, they got close." (Katharina)

"I guess it's anytime now." (Wendelin)

"Magic Gun Squad! Aim properly! Fire!" (???)

The magic gunner unit that assembled on the wall starts its shooting. A large amount of regular and ballistae arrows are fired as well.

Many soldiers are hit in front of the main gate and collapse on the ground. The rebel army starts its archery attacks from slightly behind the main army, but these are blocked by just Katharina.

"I can't use it too often." (Katharina)

Katharina freely uses the [Strong Wind] spell and diverts the attack of the rebel army's archers. A large amount of arrows that were shaken by the wind magic quickly dropped to the ground.

"I will go healing." (Elise)

"Thank you." (Wendelin)

Occasionally there were some who got hit by an arrow, but since the number of those is overwhelmingly lower than those of the rebel army, the wounded were immediately healed by Elise and several other healing magicians.

"Our side holds an overwhelming advantage, but I suppose they won't give up." (Wendelin)

Even Eru attacked the enemy with archery alongside Haruka and Takeomi-san next to me. Since there are still no enemy soldiers who have climbed the walls, there was yet no opportunity for him to wield his katana.

"Eru, won't you use a magic gun?" (Wendelin)

"Although they felt sorry, I was asked to lend them mine since there aren't enough of them. It belongs to the other party to begin with. Either way, it is inevitable since I haven't got familiar with its handling." (Erwin)

"At any rate, they are prioritizing the Mizuho army." (Wendelin)

Although they borrowed magic guns with the maintenance being handled by the Mizuho army, Eru, Haruka and Takeomi-san fall short in skill to Wilma.

As the number of magic guns the Mizuho army brought along this time is low, Eru and the other two gave theirs back to the Mizuho army that can use them much more effectively. Since it was the same for Haruka and Takeomi-san who are their companions, Eru probably had no other option but to hand it back obediently.

"In that case, only Wilma has one, huh...?" (Wendelin)

However, even Wilma didn't use the magic sniper gun.

It's necessary for her to replenish her mana after each shot. And even if she targets the nobles, the bullets will be blocked by the [Magic Barriers] of the magicians.

"This way is more effective." (Wilma)

Wilma dropped one stone after the other that she had gathered before on the rebel army. She is easily dropping rocks with a diameter of around two meters towards the base of the walls with her superhuman strength.

Of course there's no way for those being squashed by the rocks to survive.

"They don't give up easily." (Wendelin)

A considerable number of casualties has already appeared. The mana of the healers, who healed the wounded from the previous attack with the exploding balls, has probably been used up by now. The injured soldiers, who were pulled back to the rear, didn't return even after several hours.

"Though it would be great if they did so any time soon." (Burkhart)

"If they were able to do that, they wouldn't have attacked to begin with, right?" (Armstrong)

"Doushi, don't make a sound argument all of a sudden. It was a joke." (Burkhart)

I understand Burkhart-san's feelings, but it will likely influence their pride if they can't recapture a fortress that has no more than 1/7th of its usual guards, disregarding that it's a mountain fortress that's difficult to capture.

The commanding officers that seem to be nobles are apparently continuing to order the attack without caring about casualties. Once I look properly, I can see them giving orders with furious gestures in the distance.

For them the danger is low since they are protected by the [Magic Barriers] of the magicians next to them. Without feeling anything about pointlessly wasting their soldiers, they are simply giving orders from a safe location. That's probably why Duke Nürnberg nominated these guys while thinking that they will be useful for a strategy of pushing with numbers. They probably don't consider it particularly regrettable even if their soldiers get wasted.

"Our side is in a defensive battle while keeping the number of casualties low." (Wendelin)

There's no way to check how the other capturing forces are faring, but reinforcement is hopeless with these numbers. Even if I'm ordered to do so, I will have no choice but to firmly refuse.

We have to scurry back to the field encampment in the Great Sorbid Wastelands somehow while making sure to not get defeated. Of course we have no other option but to abandon this Talberg Mountain Fortress. We can't maintain such mountain fortress without any supplies either.

"Magic Gunner Squad! Change with the second platoon!" (???)

The rebel army is still attacking vigorously. And, due to suffering relentless counter-attacks by our side, their casualties are growing. They recovered and sent the wounded back to the rear, but the dead are neglected and were piling up in front of the wall and gate.

"Shoot after aiming properly!" (???)

Our allies continue to fire bullets and arrows while avoiding the arrows coming flying from the siege forces' rear. There were casualties sometimes as well, but the loss ratio is pathetic in comparison to the rebel army.

"New weapon, version 2." (Wendelin)

Since the number of allies is low, I want them to get as much rest as possible.

Thinking that it's necessary to increase the casualties on the enemy's side for that, I take out a new weapon made by Earl Mizuho Country from my magic bag.

"A magic cannon, eh...?" (Wendelin)

It's not a bad or boring pun. It was a cannon that fires a shell with magic. As a matter of fact this weapon has been developed even by the kingdom with a similar concept. I heard talks about this before.

However, a cannonball won't fly overly far. With its mana efficiency being quite bad, it hasn't reached a practical adoption so far. Even with Earl Mizuho Country increasing it efficiency a bit, it was judged as having no purpose and was lent to me.

The magic cannon that has a cannon barrel of around one meter length, has been placed on a wooden cart similar to a two-wheeled wagon in order to make the aiming easier. Just like the magic guns, this had the magic formulae embedded beforehand as well.

"Vel, what about the bullet?" (Ina)

"I will load it now." (Wendelin)

Normally you would load it with a cannon ball that seems to be used in shot-put. However, since that doesn't have that much power, I load several kilos worth of magic stone scraps first and then continue with a cloth bag that had a large amount of iron scraps and bullets inside.

Next I use [Tuning] on the magic stone scraps inside the cannon by touching the magic gem attached to the magic cannon, and completely finish the firing preparations with this.

"The aim has to target a location where the density of enemy soldiers is as high as possible." (Wendelin)

"Roger." (Ina)

"I will help as well." (Erwin)

Ina and Eru move the magic cannon placed on top of the cart. Its barrel faces the rear unit which was amassing its numbers in order to attack the the wall next.

"Ina, is this place fine?" (Erwin)

"Our allies will be sufficiently able to deal with those trying to cling to the wall now. It's more efficient to fire it at the enemy forces who are gathering their forces to close in next." (Ina)

"I see." (Erwin)

I agreed with Ina's opinion.

"Eru, you have to do your best and study it." (Ina)

"Say, Ina, do you actually have the talent for becoming a commissioned officer?" (Erwin)

"I don't really think so..." (Ina)

The aim of the magic cannon got set by the two of them and I swiftly detonate the magic stone scraps inside the cannon.

Alongside an explosion, the bullets and scrap iron fly towards the target. And then they tear the advance unit of the enemy army's force that gathered to attack the wall into pieces.

"Campaign priests! We need healing magic!" (???)

"They apparently used up their mana for healing the wounded of the previous bursting balls." (???)

"Why didn't the lords move the attack to tomorrow?!" (???)

There were even more wounded among the rebel army due to the bombarding that had its power increased by getting boosted by the magic stone scraps.

It seems that the bursting type is more efficient than a round cannon ball. Since I can't expect a fuse, the efficiency will be limited if it's a round cannon ball no matter what.

"Next!" (Wendelin)

"Roger." (Ina)

"Sure!" (Erwin)

Next we continue with an attack by exploding balls.

We carry out the bombing of the places where the soldiers of the rebel army have gathered as long as possible. The rebel army that arranged its forces at a place, where arrows won't reach, thinking that they will be safe there falls into disorder and even medical treatment doesn't exist because of mana exhaustion.

Did their will finally break due to the continuously increasing victims?

At last they started to retreat just after noon.

"Wilma!" (Wendelin)

"Leave it to me." (Wilma)

Of course we won't pursue the rebel army since their numbers are overwhelmingly higher than ours. But, it was necessary for Wilma to decrease the number of enemies by sniping them during their withdrawal.

Wilma sets up her magic sniper gun and I search for the guy with the highest magic capacity among the magicians that had turned their backs on us while supplying mana to her. Though I say that, that guy was easy to find since he's next to the noble commander.

"It's him." (Wendelin)

Once I issue the direction to Wilma, she immediately targets him and pulls the trigger.

He had already reached a distance several times that of the effective range of arrows, but the bullet, which had its power strengthened by my mana, destroyed the magician's head like a pomegranate.

"Next is that guy!" (Wendelin)

"Got it." (Wilma)

Due to the sniping from an impossible distance, the rebel army quickened the speed of its retreat. It seems that one more person in the limit.

"I won't let you get away." (Wilma)

The head of another intermediate-ranked magicians gets blown off due to the Wilma's sniping. With this today's battle finally came to a close.

* * *

"Elise, I'm sorry." (Wendelin)

"No, as priestess this is my duty." (Elise)

After confirming that the rebel army had moved back far into the rear once the battle ended, we opened the gate and disposed the corpses.

Having said that, since the rebel army might restart its attack at any time, we can't bury the corpses.

Looting the usable items, we gather them to some degree and Elise and the priests give them their prayers while sprinkling holy water that they had created in advance on the remains. That's because the corpses will at rare times turn into undead even without this place being a monster domain if we don't do this.

"Let's go back?" (Wendelin)

"Yes." (Elise)

A few hours later we return into the Talberg Mountain Fortress together with the soldiers of the Mizuho army that carried out the work together with us.

I do that while holding hands with Elise. If I didn't do that, I would end up plunging into gloomy thoughts because of the mountain of corpses.

"Vel, dinner is ready." (Ina)

"Thanks, Ina." (Wendelin)

Given that there should be an attack tomorrow as well, it's the best to eat dinner swiftly and go to bed early.

Even so, it's probably good that something like night watching hasn't been assigned to us. Since they would be discovered immediately due to the terrain if they tried a night raid, there's no meaning in it, but as it seems that they might irrationally attack to lower the morale of our side, we were cautious.

"They are trying too hard, aren't they...?" (Wendelin)

In this situation the night activity with my wives is impossible. We split into tents for men and women and went to sleep.

If a magician doesn't sleep, their mana won't recover. As it's unknown when their mana will be needed, they are always given priority on taking a break.

Since Eru, Haruka and Takeomi-san are expected to serve as shields to not lose precious magicians, they guard our tents in shifts. Even the Mizuho army has sent people over. Using a three-shift system, they don't shirk their caution towards the rebel army either.

We have been given enough time to rest, but my mind couldn't feel at ease due to having just seen the mountain of corpses and the unfamiliar battle. But, there's no way for me as man to whine about it. After all Elise and the others are putting up with it with their female bodies.

"Everyone is following you, Earl-sama, because you are their husband. Even if they consider it painful, they won't voice it out openly." (Burkhart)

"Then, is it compassion to not ask about it...?" (Wendelin)

"If they are with you, they will be given a blessed treatment, Earl-sama. However, it's likely for them to get involved in such unexpected incidents. Besides, those who can't endure that don't qualify to receive your favours, Earl-sama. Elise and the others are fighting because they understand that." (Burkhart)

This world isn't that easy-going.

There's a limit to the number of people I can support. It's indispensable for them to answer the favours from my side with service and loyalty. As that's the same for my wives as well, there's no room for me to indulge in stuff like sweet love affairs.

If seen from the standpoint of Earth's circle of romance novels, the values Burkhart-san mentioned are probably weird.

'Though it was the same even in old Japan...'

"At any rate, it's the end for this foolish operation." (Wendelin)

"Therese-sama didn't manage to consolidate the right to command the army, right? She couldn't prevent the overeagerness of young Duke Baden and his followers." (Burkhart)

As cool-headed noble, Therese probably factored in failure to some extent.

It's very likely that she's planning to get the upper hand over young Duke Baden by using the debt of having rescued him before it turned into a fatal defeat. But that's not funny for High Earl Mizuho who hasn't send out his soldiers because he wanted to.

Pointless casualties have popped up. There's a mountain of things we want to say about that as well.

"Though I don't know whether we will be able to talk about that or not. Let's go sleep in order to do so." (Burkhart)

".....Doushi, he can sleep well at any time, can't he?" (Wendelin)

"He has probably a heart and nerves made out of orichalcum, you know....." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san and me retire to bed since we are exhausted even while bearing with Doushi's snoring.

And because the defensive battle continued three days later, I think I will omit a detailed description. Even while being mowed down one after the other by arrows, magic guns and the magic cannon, the soldiers of the rebel army don't cease attacking for some reason.

The losses should have already reached the thousands, but they don't stop their offensive at all.

* * *

"How is that any different from being insane?" (Wendelin)

"Well, they are likely believing that they will be able to capture this fortress soon." (Elise)

Evening of that day, Elise, who has been in charge of relief, states her own opinion as we are eating dinner with everyone.

"At the current point in time, the number of people killed in action in the Mizuho army has reached 123." (Elise)

"Almost 10 percent, huh...?" (Wendelin)

Of course there are no casualties among us. Eru and Takeomi-san got wounded sometimes, but because those were minor injuries, they got healed by Elise right away.

"10 percent is tough, I think." (Wendelin)

It's different when it's a game, but for an actual army to suffer more than 10 percent losses is quite severe.

It's not rare for that to cause morale to drop either, but as that didn't happen, it wasn't an exaggeration to say that those were the true elites of the Mizuho army.

"Yes. I think the other side has already lost around 40%, but...." (Elise)

As the total number of rebels at the beginning was said to be 10.000, that numeric value is an estimation at best. That's because the rebel army can't attack the Talberg Mountain Fortress with its whole army due to the terrain.

Since they aren't able to attack simultaneously with more than 3000 soldiers at once, that might increase the losses needlessly. However, due to the rebel army throwing in fresh troops one after the other no matter how many we kill, voices of anxiety started to appear even within the Mizuho army.

Even if we achieve great military results by killing countless enemies, won't we get crushed by their numbers in the end, such worries are spreading.

"I'm sorry. I've been giving you troubles." (Wendelin)

"No, I don't participate in the battle after all." (Elise)

"You are participating, aren't you? An army that has no logistic support will collapse in an instant. Besides, if not for you, Elise, the number of casualties should have been more than twice of what it is now." (Wendelin)

She continued to treat severely wounded people that would make a normal man shirk away while getting bloodstained. Thanks to that, Elise gets treated as saint even among the soldiers of the Mizuho army.

At the same time rumours started to spread saying stuff like, "Earl Baumeister has it nice for having such beautiful saint-sama as wife. I want to change places with him!"

"If I'm told that by you, dear, I'm happy." (Elise)

Elise's healing magic has even healed quite severely wounded soldiers.

It's something else if it's the Earl Mizuho Country's main army, but a healing magician matching Elise doesn't exist within the detached force led by Toyotsugu-san. That's why we were able to restrain the number of people killed up to this point.

"I ended up gaining extra muscles only on my dominant arm." (Ina)

Ina helped with the adjustment of the magic cannon's aim on my side and fired a large amount of spears by using a throwing device.

Once the rebel army withdrew, we recovered a large amount of spears carried by the enemy soldiers killed in action and used those. There were only worn-out spears since they have been recovered many times while being bloodstained, but there was no inconvenience with just throwing them.

The spears strengthened with mana caused many injuries and deaths among many of the rebel army's soldiers, but as an additional bonus, Ina seems to possess something like tactical insight. She was very good at precisely matching the aim of the magic cannon at places to make the closing-in attack of the rebel army collapse and at locations to obstruct the coordination of each unit.

"Ina, why are you attacking that place?" (Erwin)

"Because that unit will try to destroy the front gate next. The unit that is attempting to destroy it at the moment has already been routed due to their severe losses. As it's a matter of time for them to retreat, it will be fine to leave them to other allies." (Ina)

"Ina, you are amazing, you know. It's strange for you to know that." (Erwin)

"This much of a judgement is probably normal for a commander." (Ina)

"But, you don't have any experience as commander, do you? Did you read about it in a book? Didn't you only read strange romance works?" (Erwin)

"Eru, that's an insult." (Ina)

"Sorry. Teach some of that to me. My education by Thorsten-san has been interrupted due to the war." (Erwin)

With such exchange apparently taking place, Eru got taught in tactical theory by Ina in the evenings.

Unexpectedly she had read quite a few of such books as well. Ina became a good teacher for Eru, but there's a person who took offence due to that.

"Certainly, I can't teach him that, but..." (Haruka)

Haruka ended up getting jealous, but she couldn't teach him since she had no knowledge about things like the commanding of an army as she gave priority to her sword skills just like Eru. Ina didn't possess that knowledge either, but she has obtained it diligently.

This is probably the blunder of Haruka who didn't study it.

"Nii-sama, can't you teach Eru-san?" (Haruka)

"Haruka, for a samurai it's fine as long as they wield their katana." (Takeomi)

"......" (Haruka)

She apparently asked her own elder brother, however even her elder brother was unreliable in this area of expertise.

They have been born into a retainer household with a low social status that doesn't allow them to be employed as anything but servants to begin with. In the Battou Unit they haven't received any education while being told that it's fine as long as they can simply swing their katana at the enemy in front of them. Its nature was slightly different from normal military forces.

"Nii-sama, you are completely useless." (Haruka)

"Wh-!?" (Takeomi)

Due to Haruka unusually using abusive words, Takeomi-san received a huge shock. It might have been a hard blow for a sis-con.

"Haruka-san, I won't do something like making a move on the wife of another person! Besides, even if Ina was single, Ina is a no go. After all, she's scary...." (Erwin)

"What do you mean by that!?" (Ina)

Eru soothed Haruka skilfully. Conversely he resolutely hurt Ina's mood though.

"What you ask; I mean it as it is." (Erwin)

"I haven't been told such thing even once by Vel! Vel has been praising me by saying that my hair is beautiful or that my skin is fair." (Ina)

"Well, such a fondly talk of others' loved ones is unnecessary....." (Erwin)

It was terrible because Ina had various worries as well. The current worries of her are apparently focused on the matter of whether she has gained muscles like Doushi on her arms due to throwing spears.

She sighed while comparing both her arms by eye.

"Isn't it fine? Luise or Wilma don't have such circumstances at all either." (Erwin)

"My worries are about 'I wonder whether I can't increase my chest size by skilfully gathering muscles there?'" (Luise)

Something like the tragedy of battle doesn't have to be mentioned at this point in time anymore. Deliberately not putting it into words was for the sake of forgetting it for a while.

"Wilma, Doushi and me have been only throwing stones." (Luise)

Since movement magic has been blocked, air battle has been sealed for Doushi and Luise. There's absolutely no way for them to leave the Talberg Mountain Fortress by themselves with the rebel army surging forward. They busied themselves with the job of just throwing huge rocks and casting [Magic Barriers].

Since it's these three throwing the rocks, it's nothing more but a calamity from the viewpoint of those getting attacked. As a matter of fact many rebel soldiers have been injured and killed after being hit by rocks.

"We are still able to manage fighting somehow, but there's no information from outside coming." (Wilma)

"Wilma-san, the source of that information came." (Katharina)

Ahead of Katharina's line of sight was the figure of Takeomi-san who headed some time ago to the headquarters where Toyotsugu-san is located. Once he sits down on a seat, he begins to report at once.

"Earl Baumeister-sama, at last a swallow mail arrived from the headquarters." (Takeomi)

Since it's pointless even if they dispatch a messenger to the Talberg Mountain Fortress that has been isolated, they apparently sent a letter using a Mizuho swallow.

"Based on that, our allies were utterly defeated with the exception of us." (Takeomi)

They were surrounded by large armies and had their supply line cut off at places that had deliberately its military personnel and materials pulled out and were carelessly left behind as military bases that were short of hands.

Since there was a lack of food, it was impossible to hold the fortresses. Although they attempted to escape, they were overwhelmingly defeated after getting attacked. That was apparently written in the letter.

"Their destruction was prevented because of Therese-sama dispatching a rear guard. Quite a bit damage was done due to the counter-attack." (Takeomi)

"It seems that the outside is fine, but what should we do?" (Wendelin)

We haven't lost, but we are still under siege by the rebel army.

As there's also the problem of food, we won't be able to hold the fortress forever. We have to explore a method how to withdraw from here.

"Fortunately reinforcements are headed our way." (Takeomi)

"Then it will turn into a pincer attack?" (Wendelin)

If the reinforcements clash with the rebel army that has been attacking us, our side will launch an attack against the enemy and change it into a pincer attack. It was a plan anyone could come up with, but real war was like that. One can't use a clever scheme that easily.

"Let's prepare for leaving this place...?" (Wendelin)

* * *

After dinner we had a council of war with Toyotsugu-san. We decided to hasten the preparations for the retreat in order to be ready whenever the reinforcements start the battle.

Although we can't take the fortress with us, we will try to return while taking as many things with us as possible. In the current war situation it was ill-advised to keep this Talberg Mountain Fortress.

"Speaking of the time, it will be tonight or tomorrow morning, I guess." (Wendelin)

In the worst situation, our allies have completely lost their main force that was aiming to capture the Commercial City Halbart.

It's very likely that further large armies will participate in the siege of the Talberg Mountain Fortress with the momentum of victor once their hands are freed up.

"Are we in danger of getting annihilated?" (Erwin)

"We are." (Ina)

As Ina says, we are in danger of getting completely defeated.

No matter how hard we fight, the losses of the Mizuho forces that are under Toyotsugu-san are gradually increasing.

Even the food; we are just not starving because I put large quantities of food into my magic bag by chance. If it goes on like this, we would run out of food in around a week according to my calculations.

"There's a possibility of the reinforcements performing a night ambush tonight." (Wendelin)

"Is the skill of Duke Philip household's forces that high that they are able to pull that off?" (Erwin)

"They should have received a minimum of training." (Wendelin)

Although they suffered a crushing defeat, the feudal army of that Margrave Browig household carried out a night attack as well.

It should be possible to rush the rebel army, which is pointing its attention at the Talberg Mountain Fortress, from the rear.

"As they should be focussing on rescuing the main force, I don't think that the reinforcements for our side are that big. Vel's deliberations might prove correct..." (Ina)

"It might also have been random remark from me." (Wendelin)

"No. It's not that much of an absurd view." (Armstrong)

"I think it's just as Doushi says. Let's gather our luggage." (Toyotsugu)

Toyotsugu-san's group appears to have arrived at the same conclusion as us.

Gathering all the luggage until it became night, we equipped harnesses on all horses and lied down on mats, with the exception of the guards, being ready for a night warfare.

While we were dozing, just before the day changed, flames suddenly rose at the foot of the Talberg Mountain.

Next a mixed sound of horses galloping and screams as well as yells of people was audible.

"Let's head out, Earl Baumeister-sama." (Takeomi)

"How about the probability of this being a pretence according to the enemy's plan?" (Wendelin)

"I think it's not." (Takeomi)

"Let's return to headquarters then?" (Wendelin)

We launch the whole army leaving the Talberg Mountain Fortress in one go and descend towards the foot of the mountain using the sole existing mountain path. Once we did so, the rebel army, which had attacked us for many days, was in chaos after receiving a night raid by our friendly reinforcements from behind.

Fire arrows were released at their encampment. They were trampled underfoot by cavalry units. They couldn't form the ranks of military forces anymore due to the increasing casualties.

"Destroy them!" (Wendelin)

Having the highest noble rank here, I naturally start giving orders.

What we should do now is to destroy the rebel army by assisting the reinforcement's night attack and to prevent pursuit by the enemy.

"Roger!" (Armstrong)

It's probably because he wanted to vent his anger for not being able to do anything but throwing stones in the defensive battles up until now. Doushi clad his body with a [Magic Barrier] and plunged into the enemy army that hasn't escaped yet by himself.

"What's that!? That monster!" (???)

"I don't want to be told that by you who caused a foolish war!" (Armstrong)

Doushi releases punches and kicks. He even smashes the head of a knight who wore full platemail. That knight fell to the ground with his plate at the body part and head part being dented to an unbelievable extent. It's probably an instant death after suffering that much fatal damage to the brain and organs.

There's no need to talk about the soldiers. Trying to not get killed by Doushi, they are only trying to escape without blocking his path. Without a doubt even master shouldn't be able to win against him in mere fighting strength.

"Earl-sama, don't admire him. Let's go." (Burkhart)

"Yes." (Wendelin)

We cut into the rebel army alongside the Mizuho forces in order to not kill our reinforcements by mistake. The Battou Unit, Haruka, Takeomi-san and Eru, in order to test his orichalcum katana, charge as vanguards.

"Yo! Yo! It's finally our turn!" (???)

"Chesto!" (???)

There were foolish nobles who introduced themselves in this situation.

It was an act in accordance with etiquette as if it was a dispute like the one with the Margrave Browig household, but right now they are no more but simple fools.

They lost their weapons after having their swords cut by one strike of Eru's sword. It was proof of the orichalcum katana's power, but as it's necessary to have suitable skill to cut metal, it looks like Eru has improved his skill through rigid training.

"I'm Viscount Hildesheim. I will have you treat me as prisoner." (???)

The enemy noble tries to surrender after having his sword cut apart, but we don't have the leeway to take prisoners in this situation. Eru cut off his head in one go.

"Even though it's fine for them to run away." (Takeomi)

"Haruka-san, let's head to the front." (Erwin)

"Yes, Eru-san." (Haruka)

"Younger sister, I'm here as well, but....." (Takeomi)

The three of them go in front of me and slay one enemy soldier after the other.

Alongside Burkhart-san and Katharina, I cut up numerous enemy soldier with small-scaled [Wind Cutters].

"You mess with me? I'm Aren the [Squall]!" (???)

"Don't care. I have no choice but to kill you unless you run away." (Burkhart)

"Humph! The likes of an adventurer wannabe who was employed by the poor Duke Philip household!" (???)

Despite being a person who had definitely been employed himself, the magician stated that with a self-important tone while he stood in front of Burkhart-san.

"To not be aware of master...." (Katharina)

"Katharina-jou-chan, I don't particularly mind even if a man doesn't know my face, besides..." (Burkhart)

"Old man! You seem to be composed!" (???)

"Yeah. You have already died." (Burkhart)

"Died?" (???)

The [Wind Cutter] that was secretly released by Burkhart-san sends the head of the magician flying from behind.

He sent the [Wind Cutter] flying like a boomerang while [Squall] didn't notice.

"Elementary level, eh? I immediately realized that he didn't have the surplus to extend the [Magic Barrier] to his back." (Burkhart)

After throwing a glance at the headless [Squall], Burkhart-san starts to immediately search for another target.

The attacks continued, but almost all of the rebels were defeated in less than an hour from then or escaped from the encampment.

"There was no turn for me...."

"It's a war until we safely return after all." (Luise)

Luise says something similar to an elementary school teacher.

Certainly, this feels like, "It's an excursion until we come back home from the excursion".

"No, Luise. The war itself hasn't ended completely yet."

"Ah, so that's how it was. I will adjust my combat style." (Luise)

The rebel army that attacked the Talberg Mountain Fortress was annihilated, but it was still uncertain whether we would be able to safely retreat to headquarters.

There was also the possibility of the rebel army's fresh troops pursuing us in order to defeat us.

"Yo. You were safe?" (Alfons)

"Oh. The reinforcement's commander is you, Alfons?" (Wendelin)

"I've been told to do so by Therese." (Alfons)

At the time we mostly finished with the mop up of the remnants of the enemy army, we finally reunite with Alfons who led the reinforcements. He came upon Therese's order while leading 4000 soldiers.

"Unexpectedly you have become accustomed to behaving like a commander, haven't you?" (Wendelin)

"Everything's handled by my subordinates." (Alfons)

His own martial arts were sub-par, but Alfons seems to possess the qualities of a commander as expected.

"Let's escape quickly then? You got only 15 minutes!" (Wendelin)

If you ask why the 15 minutes; it was the time to be used for looting the spoils of war on the battlefield.

We return while carrying the goods that were left behind in the encampment after the fire, and the weapons, armours and personal items of the corpses.

A war costs money. The spoils of war are a just privilege for the soldiers who fight while risking their lives. Especially since it's a civil war this time, they are prohibited to plunder the citizens if we later occupy a city or such.

Given that Therese had announced for violators to lose their heads, all that's left is stealing from the enemy army.

"Since your group's numbers are low, it's a large profit for you, Earl Baumeister, right?" (Alfons)

"Hmm I guess you might say that it's profitable." (Wendelin)

The personal belongings and expensive armours of nobles and knights, and there are also many among the magicians possessing magic bags. Of course, since the ones who defeated them have the privilege of looting, it's profitable for us as mercenaries.

"That doesn't mean that we will only move if it yields a profit. Especially this time's operation has..." (Wendelin)

We were about to get annihilated after getting encircled due to this pointless operation. We are angry as well, but the seed of discontent is spreading even more so among the Mizuho army led by Toyotsugu-san.

"Therese is decreasing the number of Mizuho people on purpose for the sake of her rule of the empire after the war. There are also some that are enraged that she's stealing the strength of their national army." (Wendelin)

"That's bad, isn't it...." (Alfons)

For Toyotsugu-san not coming to greet Alfons was also because of such circumstances.

Officially he announced that it's for the sake of confirming the casualties and to reorganize the army for the retreat, but there wasn't a single person who believed those words.

"They are getting deceived by Duke Nürnberg's scheme, aren't they?" (Alfons)

"Don't blame Duke Nürnberg for anything and everything." (Wendelin)

He's probably a capable enemy, but this time it's only about Therese being unable to properly secure the sole right to command the army.

As for the kind of scheme that instigates discord on our side, this applies to both sides.

"The one with few mistakes wins in a war. I pray that Therese will be that one." (Wendelin)

"Yeah, that's a wise saying. I feel like I have heard it somewhere before, but...." (Alfons)

Doushi, who fought by himself, comes back with his robe bloodstained.

I remove the blood spurts with the [Cleaning] spell. For some reason Doushi is bad at this kind of assorted magic.

No, isn't it weird to say for some reason at this point?

"Sorry, Earl Baumeister. Do you have a bad opinion of Therese-sama?" (Armstrong)

"It's as you say, Doushi. I certainly do have a bad opinion of her, I suppose." (Wendelin)

"It probably can't be helped if she's the supreme commander." (Alfons)

Doushi and Alfons try to cover for Therese, but I drove in the nail deeper due to that.

If you pamper her because she's a woman, it's possible that she will do the same mistake again.

"Well then, it's time." (Wendelin)

"Let's try to run away, eh?" (Alfons)

Once the time for looting the spoils of wars comes to an end, the reinforcements and the Mizuho army started to travel towards headquarters in a hurry while skipping their sleep.

* * *

"What about an enemy army's pursuit?" (Wendelin)

"At present there's none." (Wilma)

While rubbing my sleepy eyes and occasionally dozing off on top of the horse, we continue our retreat.

We serve as rear guard. I had Wilma, who was riding together with me on the horse, check our rear once in a while.

If there's a pursuit unit closing in, it will be my task to discourage them from continuing their pursuit by mercilessly firing off magic.

"I wonder whether there will be a pursuit? What do you think, Wilma?" (Wendelin)

"Probably they won't come." (Wilma)

"That would be the best." (Wendelin)

"Since we destroyed the enemy army, they should hesitate even if fresh reinforcements arrived." (Wilma)

The rebel army that got attacked by us, who secluded themselves in the Talberg Mountain Fortress, lost more than 3000 soldiers in the reckless siege battle and following that we should have killed around 2000 soldiers in the night attack.

If you go even further, as the reinforcements released fire arrows at them during the night attack, that caused a fire in the wintery plains and dried woods which were ahead of their escape path.

It seems that almost no people live in the vicinity. Also, they won't extinguish the fires since they don't have the leeway to do so.

I don't think that they will be burnt to death that easily, but they shouldn't have the flexibility to reorganize from there and start a pursuit. Having lost all goods such as food due to their encampment burning down should be painful as well.

"We also killed plenty of nobles." (Wendelin)

"Magicians, too." (Wilma)

We have defeated many magicians in the fortress siege and nobles as well as magicians during the night attack.

With the absences of their greatest war potentials and their commanders, it's very unlikely for them to be even able to reorganize.

"Anyway, I want to return quickly and get some sleep." (Wendelin)

"Vel-sama, let's sleep together." (Wilma)

"True. Let's sleep together with everyone." (Wendelin)

"Elise-sama." (Wilma)

"That's right. We will sleep together with everybody." (Elise)

Elise, who is riding a horse next to me, approved Wilma's request.

"It's not that kind of sleeping with each other, I really want to enter a bed normally and get some good sleep." (Ina)

"I agree with Ina-chan." (Luise)

"Me too. It seems that my eyelids will become too heavy soon." (Katharina)

It looks like it has been decided that the six of us will sleep together today. I guess that's also nice once we safely get back.

"Umm, Haruka-san, won't you sleep together with me?" (Erwin)

"Eh!? But, we still haven't married...." (Haruka)

"Erwin, it's fine to turn you into rust on my katana, right?" (Takeomi)

"It was a joke!" (Erwin)

Is it because he's half asleep? A joke? Eru provoked Takeomi's anger by speaking about strange stuff.

He probably wants to only sleep together with her, but if you ask the Mizuho people, that's a taboo before the marriage, I guess.

Takeomi-san drew his katana with a grim look and pointed it at Eru.

"We still haven't married. But, it's not like I dislike something like that. It's something similar to a slight yearning, but... Being woken up kindly in the morning by Eru-san or such. That's something I saw in a story book called 『Records of the hard struggles of a young wife』..." (Haruka)

Humans seem to blurt out things similar to sleep-talking if their sleepiness reaches a excessive degree.

Haruka herself was immersed in her own world while her face was dyed bright red.

"Will we able to survive somehow albeit being drowsy?" (Armstrong)

"Probably. Though the future outlook is bleak, Doushi." (Burkhart)

"It really is." (Armstrong)

Doushi's and Burkhart-san's expressions are gloomy.

It was only us and the Mizuho army that achieved great accomplishments by winning in this time's military operation.

However, strategically it was a crushing defeat. Toyotsugu-san, who suffered a loss of 321 soldiers of the 1500 in the end, hadn't any interest in talking with Alfons more than necessary. Even the surviving young Duke Baden and his followers shouldn't be amused about us having won.

It's irrational, but that's how the emotions of humans work.

"Even though we defeated a large amount of enemies, I got worn-out as if we suffered an overwhelming defeat." (Burkhart)

"A big army of dragons would have been easier, I guess." (Armstrong)

"You can say that again." (Burkhart)

War between humans is tiring.

I want to quickly return to my adventurer's life of hunting monsters.

As I was thinking about such things, Doushi and Burkhart-san continued to complain for a while behind me.

Chapter 90: A noble can be arrogant if they win in war (battle)

In the end we were successful in safely returning to the field encampment located in the Great Sorbid Wasteland.

We had expected to get pursued by the rebel army after they became hot blooded due to their victories, but they wisely chose to not to. If they had, they would have fallen prey to wide area advanced magic by Burkhart-san and me though.

The mixed rebel army unit that tried to keep us locked up in the Talberg Mountain Fortress is likely in a state of annihilation. The other military forces might have hurried to defend the fortresses and cities they recaptured.

Therese also left troops behind as a restraint. We came back to the headquarters while nodding off atop our horses.

"If one considers the losses, there are many points to think about, but I guess we are still better off than the others."

We were greeted by the retainers of the Duke Philip household and High Earl Mizuho in front of the headquarters' entrance.

High Earl Mizuho's remark is likely a sarcastic stab towards the retainers of the Duke Philip household who are next to him. He has deliberately said it so that it will reach Therese's ears through them.

"....The atmosphere is bad, isn't it...?" (Wendelin)

A tense air is hanging between the retainers of the Duke Philip household and High Earl Mizuho who is likely boiling with anger inside.

I'm sure there are various things he wants to say as more than 20% of the troops he dispatched were killed in action.

"That stupid brat survived. What a bother..." (Earl Mizuho)

Then High Earl Mizuho drops a bombshell.

The one whom High Earl Mizuho means with stupid brat is young Duke Baden.

Although he had captured the commercial city Halbart for a while, he immediately got besieged by new enemy forces. Moreover, as there wasn't sufficient food in the captured Halbart and as they couldn't plunder any from the inhabitants just because of lacking food, they had to run away. During the escape they suffered from persistent pursuits.

It looks like they were rescued by reinforcements led by Therese and High Earl Mizuho on the way, but having lost 30% of the whole army, it was an utter defeat.

"That little bastard acts arrogant despite coming back after getting his ass wiped." (Earl Mizuho)

The reason for him acting all self-important is easy. If he bows his head in front of Therese and High Earl Mizuho here, it will affect the reputation of the Duke Baden household. Even if the person himself wants to apologize, his retainers will be against that.

I see. With Therese and the others having begun a struggle for supremacy behind closed doors and the rebel army under Duke Nürnberg, who is trying to crush us by using the military forces of stupid nobles, the proverb that a war is won by the side that makes less mistakes proves to be true, I guess.

It's said that there are also situations where you end up losing after making a mistake or getting held back by others for reasons other than one own's ability.

Good grief, all of this is really educational, I have to say, but it still resulted in us having taken the mountain fortress for some reason.

"It looks like they are having an emergency meeting, Earl Baumeister." (Earl Mizuho)

"Do I have the qualifications to join that?" (Wendelin)

"I think that it's already past the time to talk about such formalities." (Earl Mizuho)

"Therese-sama's intention are as plain as day. To an extent that it's very easy to understand." (Wendelin)

"Now, now, don't say that, Earl Baumeister." (Earl Mizuho)

When I headed towards the building with the headquarters that was specified as meeting venue together with High Earl Mizuho, Therese awaited us at the entrance.

"Ooh! Thou achieved big military gains, didn't thou, Wendelin!" (Therese)

In the end we retreated after we captured Talberg Mountain Fortress once, but even going by a little estimate, we have killed close to half the enemy army that fought us.

There are also many nobles and magicians confirmed to have been killed in action. Compared to the other groups, it's a huge military achievement.

"Why yes, thank you..." (Wendelin)

However, my disappointed expression didn't fall apart from that.

With the plan being reckless to begin with, there was the possibility of us having no other option but to surrender or get destroyed, if Alfons' reinforcements didn't come.

No matter how many siege forces we are able to repel, there would be nothing more that we could do once our food ran out while being surrounded. Even if we took a gamble and attempted to escape while independently crushing the enemy army, it was probable for us to get annihilated if we failed at that. It was quite likely that there would have been victims even among us if we went unskillfully about it.

Therese came requesting a handshake with me, but ignoring that on purpose, I hug Elise's and Katharina's shoulders and enter the building.

"Dear..." (Elise)

"W-wait a moment! Wendelin-san!?" (Katharina)

Going by appearance, I couldn't be regarded as anything but a hopeless, lustful noble, but it's also a provocation meaning, "Sorry, but both my hands are full.".

Elise doesn't say anything as she apparently realized it, but Katharina was surprised and raised her voice apparently believing my action to be indiscreet.

"You bastard!" (???)

"I think the meeting is more important for now, but is there something wrong?" (Wendelin)

A retainer that was attached to Therese curses at my rude conduct, but I forcefully face him down with my public position.

Even the other party threatens me rudely using the excuse that I'm a noble of a foreign country. Thus we are of equal status in that regard, I think.

Although it's called a great military achievement, there's also the side of the Mizuho army that had many losses while fighting together with us.

I didn't feel like obediently accepting her handshake. Besides, it won't result in any decent outcome even if I receive preferential treatment in the current situation.

"Therese-sama, originally we are mercenaries." (Burkhart)

"Just the appearance of the Royal Head Magician at a council of war of a foreign country actually leads to various problems." (Armstrong)

No matter how lenient Burkhart-san and Doushi are towards Therese, they didn't forget to give her a short warning.

"First comes the meeting, Therese-sama." (???)

"Got it. Let's start then?" (Therese)

Even if it's called a meeting, it's close to a court-martial in reality.

Once I entered the building, the nobles inside plainly showed their hate on their faces.

No matter how many military gains we might obtain, in the end we are still outsiders. Even so, we are a related party to the defeat this time. If requested by Therese, I intended to tell them my view.

"Well then, should we try starting the meeting then?" (Alfons)

First Alfons, with a rare serious expression that doesn't break apart, reports the changes in the war situation, our losses, and the enemy army's losses, though those are only an estimate.

Young Duke Baden's group lost in total 5367 soldiers without decently damaging the enemy army.

It's been more than 30% in the battle to capture Halbart and in the retreat battles after that. There are also more than 2000 casualties from the military forces of the nobles who went out to capture other cities and fortresses. The sole salvation might be that the losses on the side of the rebel army were large when they were appropriately attacked by the reinforcements of Therese.

Going by estimation, around 9000 soldiers were killed.

However, among those, 5000 enemy soldiers were the result of our and the Mizuho army's military achievements. Once they have been informed about our and the Mizuho army's military gains, around one third of the nobles became openly hostile.

From their point of view it's disagreeable for the Earl Mizuho Country that's treated as a foreign country to take up an important position in the empire after the war due to having played an active role during the civil war.

As for young Duke Baden who's the one responsible for the defeat; he's expressionless just like a noh mask. It's a fact that he caused a debacle, but he likely detests Therese having stolen the liberation army's leadership with that as the reason.

Furthermore, as for the liberation army; it apparently reached the point of being called like that since Therese's and allies armed forces hasn't been a popular name.

Naming the enemy as a rebel army was written down in official documents that were prepared formally.

"Everyone's quiet, aren't they..." (Wendelin)

With the sequence of events being as they were mentioned above, everyone stayed silent while attending the meeting.

Therese wants to carry out a centralization of the liberation army's command and charge young Duke Baden with the responsibility for the defeat, but as she will be troubled if he betrays the liberation army after getting blamed too much, she's hesitating about how to find a new approach.

Young Duke Baden doesn't want to throw away the aspiration of seizing the initiative once again by taking a bit of the responsibility upon himself.

The nobles are either supporting one side or are troubled which side they should support.

It was my first attendance in a war council during the war, but I didn't think that it would be this tedious. Maybe the internal affairs are similar in the rebel army as well.

While I was fed up, Doushi and Burkhart-san, who are attending the meeting as well, drunk maté tea and ate the cookies which they had put into a magic bag after Elise had baked them before. They craved for sweets since they are worn-out and have empty stomachs after just returning to headquarters.

"Doushi, nothing is getting settled." (Wendelin)

"In the first place, it's a meeting that doesn't require us, who are treated as mercenaries, to attend." (Armstrong)

"Doushi, it's the end if you say that, right?" (Burkhart)

"But, it's a fact, isn't it, Burkhart-dono?" (Armstrong)

As there's no way for him to drink alcohol here, Burkhart-san drinks tea while crunching on rice crackers he bought in Earl Mizuho Country. It looks like he was happier with rice crackers than sweet cookies. As I had seen him buying a huge amount, he likely still has some left on stock.

"Vel, Burkhart-san is an old man." (Erwin)

"I can hear you, Erwin." (Burkhart)

"S-Sorry!!" (Erwin)

Looking at Burkhart-san slurping his tea while eating rice crackers, Eru pointed that out to me in a whisper, but with Burkhart having heard that, Eru apologized earnestly.

It's a mood that makes it seem as if we aren't attending a meeting at all, but as no one, including Therese, says anything, it's actually eerie.

"Vel, I want to eat a mango." (Ina)

"Sure." (Wendelin)

Once I take out a mango we picked up in the Demon Forest from my magic bag and pass it to Ina, she immediately cuts it into little pieces that are easy to eat, piles those pieces up on a plate and places that plate on the table.

"My stomach is empty." (Wilma)

"As it's a meeting, I wanted to postpone eating." (Katharina)

"You might end up falling asleep with your stomach full." (Luise)

It might be as Luise says, however that's still better than taking part in a meeting that bears no fruits like this one.

Therese's group, the leading group of the meeting, remains silent while exchanging glances.

As we are treated as mercenaries, our position is low. At any rate, we enjoyed tea and snacks without minding the surrounding gazes as we are probably not too conspicuous.

Since we couldn't eat much food during the retreat, we had become hungry.

"I want to eat a full serving of meat." (Wilma)

"That's true, I guess. You played a major role in the battle after all, Wilma. It would be great if the meeting could end swiftly so that we would be able to have a proper meal." (Wendelin)

Wilma obtained great military achievements by killing many commanders and soldiers with the prototype magic sniper rifle.

Rather than wasting time with such a pointless meeting, I'd like to have a meal swiftly.

"Good work, you did well." (Wendelin)

"That feels nice." (Wilma)

When I gently stroke Wilma's head while praising her, she closed her eyes and became entranced.

"Sorry. I forgot you, Katharina." (Wendelin)

Being an excelling magician, she flourished greatly by freely and mostly independently using magic.

If this was a civil war in the kingdom, it would definitely result in an increase in territory and a rise in peerage.

"I don't have any particular need to have my head stroked..." (Katharina)

"Do you hate it?" (Wendelin)

"Umm.... If the one doing it is you, Wendelin-san...." (Katharina)

"As I want to do it, bring your head closer." (Wendelin)

"I guess I have no other choice then...." (Katharina)

Even while saying something like that, Katharina closed her eyes apparently not being against it when her head was actually caressed by me. Since she's a shy person, it won't happen unless I don't tell her myself.

Having said that, it's a joke, but as the meeting really isn't making any progress, I'm simply provoking them by deliberately acting like that.

I expected for there to be nobles causing a fuss by saying stuff like "How indiscreet!", but they are silent after sending a look our way for just an instant.

"Ah, right. There's something I'd like to ask of you, Elise." (Wendelin)

"Okay. What is it?" (Elise)

"Feed me." (Wendelin)

"Understood. Dear, please open your mouth and say A~~~h." (Elise)

For a body worn-out from battle, fruits are the best.

"Elise, you too. Here. A~~~h." (Wendelin)

"It's delicious." (Elise)

I continue my provocation even further, but it looks like Elise realized my intention. She fed some of the cut mango to me.

She also knows that no matter how many great military achievements we obtained in the recent battle, those haven't contributed in any way to the war situation. She cooperated with the provocation that was filled with my protest.

"I will feed you as well, Vel. Here. A~~~h." (Luise)

"Me too. Here. A~~~h." (Ina)

With Luise and Ina participating as well, the room, where the meeting is held, got enveloped by a strange atmosphere.

The nobles who don't say anything while wearing discouraged expressions, Therese who can't grasp a clue how to breach the topic, we who are feeding each other fruits and sweets with six people, Doushi who is eating a lot of sweets and fruits while drinking maté tea, and Burkhart-san who's quietly slurping his maté tea.

Only time is passing, but finally a single noble starts to blame us as if a dam has broken. It looks like he couldn't put up with it any longer at last.

"What are you, the likes of mercenaries, doing at such a meeting?!" (???)

Going by my conjecture the middle-aged, fat noble that donned an attire with flashy ornaments, which were of bad taste, is probably around the rank of an Earl?

For a noble it's probably troublesome if they don't readily remember foreign nobles of which there are plenty, but it might not be that much of a problem in this case. That's because we are mercenaries after all.

"If you ask what we are doing, it's a light meal before dinner as we withdrew in a situation where we couldn't eat and drink much." (Wendelin)

"Do such stuff after the meeting! Just what the hell do you bastards think of a meeting of the authorities!?" (???)

"Authorities, you say? At this meeting where no one is talking at all?" (Wendelin)

Due to me pointing it out, everyone showed bitter expressions on their faces.

Because of the defeat, it's necessary to hold a meeting to reprimand and punish the people responsible and to learn a lesson from those battles, but no one wanted to be punished. No one said anything as they were afraid of young Duke Baden being removed from the race for the next emperor if he's made to take responsibility for this time's defeat.

Even Therese hesitated to make any kind of announcement as she was thinking that it would alienate young Duke Baden if she punishes him unskillfully. That how things probably stand. However, while that may be true, there's no meaning in having held a meeting if she stays silent without declaring anything.

"I feel like we won tactically at parts, but since it was strategically a crushing defeat, you have to quickly reflect on it and move on to the next plan, don't you?" (Wendelin)

"The losses on the rebel army's side are huge...." (???)

"Those are losses Duke Nürnberg has taken into consideration." (Wendelin)

What I understood in these two battles is that Duke Nürnberg hasn't dispatched much of the military forces of the nobles and imperial army, which sympathize with him, and neither did he send the elites of his own feudal army whom he can trust the most.

Something like the troops that besieged the Talberg Mountain Fortress were obviously intended to be crushed. Although their noble heads are idiots, he can't make light of their military and economic strength.

Even though the reinforcements that were sent out by Therese obtained results beyond expectations, those troops were as weak as being below second rate despite having large numbers.

"They are weak, but if you fight them, our allies will definitely incur losses. Once those losses accumulate, Duke Nürnberg will go for a decisive battle with his trustable military forces that are still fresh while our side will be in a state of exhaustion." (Wendelin)

To begin with, the rebel army that's holding the south and centre is predominant.

As for the ability to mobilize military strength, the other side was superior.

"That's the biggest reason why Duke Nürnberg hasn't come out until now. He has been dispatching soldiers while calmly calculating the difference in military strength between our side and his own." (Wendelin)

"However, for us high class nobles to be deceived by Duke Nürnberg's schemes that easily..." (???)

"It has been you gentlemen who chose to go along with it, right?" (Wendelin)

Just because they are nobles, it doesn't mean that all of them are excellent. Even I have seen excellent nobles and those that aren't until now.

Because their education environment is better than those of commoners, the ratio of knowledgeable people is probably higher. However, there are also many people, who only possess knowledge but don't know how to apply it, and those who are egoistic and arrogant due to their birthplace. They caused many victims by heading into battle while only defending themselves with a [Magic Barrier].

Unexpectedly the nature of people other than nobles might not be that different either.

"They thought that it would be bad to not attach themselves to the rebel army out of geographical reasons and such. Beyond having joined up with the rebel army, they want to increase their influence and territory by raising military achievements. As a result we are losing our military forces by joining in on the battles as their numbers are big." (Wendelin)

There's no loss for Duke Nürnberg due to their defeat. He can charge them with the responsibility of having lost. This time he won't punish them since they recaptured the military locations, but they uselessly wasted their military forces. Something like losing a huge number of troops in the current situation is similar to lending a helping hand to Duke Nürnberg's power as dictator.

They will be crushed if they go against him. In reality he might have already made a move on the noble households that lost their family heads in action. By placing a person that follows his own intentions as successor, Duke Nürnberg will put them under his control.

"Given that Duke Nürnberg is aiming for an unified, beautiful empire, he won't hesitate to remove nobles that will become a hindrance to that." (Wendelin)

Although he allows even foolish nobles to survive as long as they are obedient towards him, he will immediately get rid of them by having them intentionally clash with our side if they prove to be even slightly defiant.

The smart nobles should either calmly assist in his hegemony or keep a mostly neutral stance as they still don't know which side will win. They are likely waiting and watching the situation without opposing Duke Nürnberg. From Duke Nürnberg's point of view, that's satisfactory.

If our side loses, they will truly obey Duke Nürnberg as they are no fools.

Raising the peerage and gaining territory by taking a gamble is fine. And reliably protecting one's territory and peerage is fine as well. Either of those options is correct for a noble.

"So, what are you telling us to do?" (???)

"Nothing in particular, or rather, I don't have the right to state my opinion." (Wendelin)

As mercenary I don't have the qualification to state my opinion in this meeting. Stating it as perfect public stance, I confuse the noble who blamed me. The other participants had expressions as if they were crestfallen for an instant.

"Didn't you say whatever you want until just now though?" (???)

"This was tit for tat." (Wendelin)

"Pu-!" (Burkhart)

Due to my remark, Burkhart-san, who sat in the seat next to me, had to strain himself to not burst into laughter.

"You are participating in the meeting. Thus you are qualified to state your opinion!" (???)

It seems that from the beginning this noble wanted to hear my opinion in this stagnated meeting one way or the other. Though I have a problem with him relying on an outsider.

"It has turned out like this because you attacked even though there's a difference in military strength. We have no other choice but to wait for Duke Nürnberg to raise his entire army and come attack us after he finished his preparations and secured his back." (Wendelin)

We will cut through and make the rebel army collapse, to win in the end while protecting this field encampment.

If we win overwhelmingly, it is possible that it would fall apart in one go since it's a coup d'etat administration to begin with.

"We defend?" (???)

"Splitting up imprudently even though our numbers are lacking will result in us being taken advantage of once we try to increase the area under our control." (Wendelin)

These are no war chronicles either. A small number of dispatched allies shouldn't be able to defeat a big number of enemies. If one goes according to common knowledge, the side with the lower numbers will lose a war.

Tactics and intelligence gathering is for the sake of compensating for that, but seeing that communication magic has been blocked, the rebel army, that will be lying in wait, likely has the advantage. There's also the matter of geographical advantage since it would be the rebel army that gets attacked.

"There's no need for complicated theories and strategies. It will be fine if you settle the command of the supreme commander of the liberation army on one person, and defeat Duke Nürnberg who will close in with his entire army. First you have to devote yourselves to not losing. If you lose, it will spell the ruin of your households and families." (Wendelin)

"......." (???)

Duke Nürnberg won't forgive the nobles who belonged to the liberation army.

He might pardon a part of the nobles that aimed for the downfall by betrayal, but I believe that he will at least utterly destroy the two prince-elector households and Earl Mizuho Country.

We can run away in the worst case, but for them, who are responsible for their own territories, escape is not an option.

Due to the harsh reality, the faces of the nobles gradually turn pale. In other words, they can't lose anymore.

"For that reason a diversion of of our forces like this time and the vague state of command will be bad." (Wendelin)

"Certainly, I suppose it is as you say, Earl Baumeister." (???)

Quarrelling over the command although our numbers are inferior, they lost military strength in a meaningless offensive. If they don't improve on this, the liberation army is on a straight line towards defeat, I believe.

"Also, as for the recent defeat, the responsibility lies with the supreme commander." (Wendelin)

"Responsibility..." (???)

The nobles alternatively look at Therese and young Duke Baden.

No matter how one may think about it, the supreme commander is Therese, but there are also not few nobles who expect young Duke Baden to be the supreme commander since she's a woman.

That's why it has developed into this situation.

"Therese-sama, I'd like you to act in order that such things don't happen from now on." (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister!" (???)

Many nobles are surprised due to my statement. There was also one person who froze among them.

Though being treated as mercenary, I, who is a high-ranking nobles albeit from a foreign country and someone that has achieved various meritorious deeds in the past two battles, have named Therese as supreme commander.

Due to this fact, there were even some nobles, that are supporting young Duke Baden, who rebuked me.

"We don't have any time to waste. There is no law in the empire that forbids an empress, right? Since it's currently a critical time in the civil war, such things will happen as well. Indeed. Because it's a rebellion, it can't be helped." (Wendelin)

"It can't be helped because it's a rebellion..." (???)

"That's how it is." (Wendelin)

A stable country and governmental structures hate unprecedented situations.

If it's Japan, the same is true for bureaucrats and such, but there will be those who will agree with it unexpectedly if there's the reason of it being an emergency.

"Young Duke Baden-dono." (Wendelin)

"What is it?" (Duke Baden)

"This time you were unlucky, I guess." (Wendelin)

"No, Duke Nürnberg predicted my own desires..." (Duke Baden)

"In that case there's something you have to definitely follow up on after the defeat." (Wendelin)

"Follow up on?" (Duke Baden)

"Yes. It's about the noble households that were killed in the recent defeat." (Wendelin)

Since they lost their family heads, he has to follow up on them so that they swiftly decide on a successor.

"If we are negligent on doing that, there's the possibility of them getting deceived by Duke Nürnberg's schemes out of anxiety." (Wendelin)

If rebellions are caused in our rear, it will unnecessarily waste time and labour to suppress them. It's also possible that our supply lines will get cut off.

"Therese-sama, after you impose a penalty on young Duke Baden, you should make sure that he follows up on that part, I think." (Wendelin)

"It's as you say, Earl Baumeister." (Therese)

"Although it's regrettable this time, it's very likely that young Duke Baden's child or grandchild will become the next emperor after Therese-sama." (Wendelin)

It will be difficult to continue with the precedents and pass on the imperial throne to Therese's child. If she forces that, it will trigger troubles. Therese herself doesn't wish that either, I think.

"However, will it work out that smoothly?" (???)

"The probability is high. That's because the other five prince-elector households won't take part in the emperor selection for a while. Even if they ran for the election, it would be suspicious." (Wendelin)

Depending on the outcome of the civil war, it was possible that ruined households and risen peerages will be removed from the prince-elector households.

"What about Earl Mizuho Country?" (???)

"It will probably be necessary to have them become a prince-elector household in order to stabilize the empire's reign, but I wonder, will the family head of the Mizuho household really run for the election of the next emperor?" (Wendelin)

"No. I'd like to receive the rewards I can get and a position for the continuous existence of the Mizuho household, but I'd like to be pardoned from something like becoming emperor." (Earl Mizuho)

High Earl Mizuho clearly declares that he has no interest in the seat of emperor.

Although one can't say that it's an absolute rule, it will likely remain a fact for a while. He will also obtain a seat in the parliament and become a prince-elector that can't run in the emperor election.

By showing an attitude that they will participate in the politics of the empire and not only remain a half-baked independent country, the wariness of the other nobles will fade as well.

"How about going at it with such agenda, Therese-sama?" (Wendelin)

"Very well, let's go along with thy suggestion, Earl Baumeister." (Therese)

There is meaning in what I, an outsider, have said in a manner similar to deliberately stepping into a minefield. With that Therese's intention simply shifted according to my words.

Of course, since we had no time to prepare in advance, all of it was my own wilful design though.

"However, Therese-sama, several prince-elector households will diminish after the war, won't they?" (Wendelin)

"It's said that the family heads have been taken hostage, but it seems like no one has seen them. I won't be surprised even if they were killed." (Therese)

"For the sake of a stable rule of the empire it will be necessary to have at least the same number, no?" (Wendelin)

"I guess so." (Therese)

The facial expressions of the nobles change due to Therese's reply.

Especially the Earls and Margraves understood that it will be possible for them to become prince-electors depending on their performance from now on.

The prince-elector households are relatives of the imperial family because they are Duke households, but as a matter of fact, with the policy of marrying between fellow noble households of the empire for many years, there are countless noble households that have descended from an emperor's household.

Besides, since the current prince-elector households are participating in the rebel army, it's also possible to crush them or take them over depending on the circumstances. That means there are plenty of possibilities to succeed their place.

"Please do your best and dream as you please."

With it being a question of possibility to the bitter end, they definitely haven't been told that they will be able to become prince-electors. In short, it's fine if Therese's authority has been recognised and if they become military assets in the decisive battle to come.

"Proceed with the reorganization and assembling of our allies' military forces. We have no other choice but to wait and destroy the soldiers sent by Duke Nürnberg." (Therese)

"But, will they come our way that conveniently?" (???)

"They will come without fail. Duke Nürnberg has to destroy us in order to establish his own hegemony. With the empire divided, his conquest of Helmut Kingdom that might take place in the future won't come true." (Therese)

Therese confidently answers the question of the noble.

With this the liberation army's command has been finally consolidated and the strategic objectives have decreased to only one.

* * *

"Vel-sama, the meat got grilled." (Wilma)

"What kind of flavour of dipping sauce should I put on it?" (Wendelin)

"Salt." (Wilma)

"Wilma, your choice is harsh, you know." (Wendelin)

Since the meeting finished at last, we were holding a barbecue in the garden of our house inside the encampment.

It was a barbecue in the still wintry wastelands and not at the sea of eternal summer, but it's not like we are doing it for leisure. It's merely for the sake of shortening the cooking time and to reduce the burden on Elise. Anyway, it's because we wanted to eat meat.

Since there is a huge amount of monster meat that was matured with magic, we are grilling it on a charcoal fire and have cut vegetables as supplemental.

When I eat meat after applying a dip on it once it got grilled on top of the wire mesh, I can even forget this gruesome war.

"Meat after a battle...?" (Erwin)

Even while saying that, Eru, who apparently became hungry, ate plenty of meat.

It's not like corpses and meat are connected either. My senses in this regard have probably numbed down after having seen far too many casualties.

It's cruel, but after all those were strangers whose faces I don't even know. There's no point even if I worry about it.

"I guess there are also parts I won't be able to do if I don't consider it like that."

Anyway, the destruction of that device operated by Duke Nürnberg is the top priority. If we don't do something about that, the various handicaps will be too big.

"Dear, was that alright with you?" (Elise)

"I guess it was inevitable." (Wendelin)

While eating the grilled meat together, Elise asks me about my actions at the meeting.

Originally opening my mouth there was unreasonable, but it's impossible for us to obey Duke Nürnberg. At any rate, it will get bad if we don't have Therese win the war.

"I stayed silent out of fear, but Vel ended up saying it." (Erwin)

"It's fine, isn't it? We have rendered distinguished services after all." (Wendelin)

From Eru's point of view it likely didn't look like anything but me doing whatever I like at the meeting.

Since we have obtained the meritorious deed of having killed many enemy soldiers by using tactics, it wouldn't get too bad as long as we could escape from getting punished imprudently.

Since Therese should be aware of my goals, I haven't taken that possibility into consideration, but she smoothly used my remarks.

"Putting that aside, how was the orichalcum katana?" (Wendelin)

"It has an amazing sharpness." (Erwin)

It seems that there's almost no difference in sharpness in regards to its cutting ability. However, even if I add the three sets I had Kanesada forge, there only exist around 20 sets on the whole world.

Even if he finishes the remaining two sets, it will be only 22 sets. Among those 17 sets are owned by Mizuho people. With them being that precious, those were katana anyone desired.

"How about Haruka and Takeomi-san?" (Wendelin)

"It's very sharp." (Haruka)

"It's regrettable that it's a borrowed item." (Takeomi)

While the elder brother and younger sister ate meat together with us, they talked about the magnificence of the orichalcum katana with me. With them using many technical terms, everyone ended up pulling back a bit since both of them are terrible katana lovers.

The only one enthusiastically listening to them is Eru, I guess.

"I will continue lending them to you during the time you are working as my guards." (Wendelin)

"I will act in a way to not put shame on the katana." (Takeomi)

There's no meaning if a greenhorn like me uses them anyway.

Since there's the orichalcum sword I received from Eru in exchange, that will be plenty, I think.

"By the way, why is our lord here?" (Takeomi)

"It looks like he wants to eat meat." (Wendelin)

High Earl Mizuho, Burkhart-san and Doushi drank large quantities of booze while eating meat.

Everyone has high positions in society, but going by their appearance, I can't regard them as anything but old men who are grumbling over their mugs in a bar.

"The alcohol made in Helmut Kingdom is delicious! It matches well with meat!" (Earl Mizuho)

"There's also rare 30 years old wine." (Burkhart)

"Burkhart-san, please pour some of that in my cup as well." (Earl Mizuho)

"Should I take out my priced brandy here?" (Armstrong)

"Fufufufu, look here! I brought the top-quality sake 『Drop of the Full Moon』." (Earl Mizuho)

"Ooh! That sounds like an amazing name!" (Armstrong)

"It's a Mizuho sake I rarely get my hands on." (Burkhart)

"By all means, pour me some as well." (Armstrong)

The spectacle of the three that were beyond middle-age in years drinking alcohol was just like a party of office workers.

"The battle at the Talberg Mountain Fortress was terrible." (Earl Mizuho)

"No, High Earl Mizuho, you didn't go to the Talberg Mountain, did you?" (Armstrong)

"Now that you mention it, that's right....." (Earl Mizuho)

Even so, since he took command of another reinforcement, Haruka's opinion isn't that wrong either.

Believing that it will be rude to our comrades in arms if we don't give anything to them, I pass expensive wine and brandy to Toyotsugu-san.

Passing wine and rum to the soldiers as well, I gave a bit of money to express my sympathy for those killed in action. If it wasn't for them, it might have been us that were killed in action.

"Lord came to give his thanks, right?" (Haruka)

"Haruka-san, it would be best if you don't mind the drinking bout over there." (Erwin)

As Eru says, something like caring about a drinking bout of old drunkards is pointless.

They look like nothing more but three old men that are simply drinking alcohol, but Toyotsugu-san was deeply moved due to me handing out money to express my sympathy and told High Earl Mizuho,

"Even though Earl Baumeister-sama is young, it's splendid of him to show consideration. As thanks I will give him my daughter." (Toyotsugu)

It seems that's what he said, but as expected, High Earl Mizuho refused that with all his might. His true reasoning is that he wants to assess the situation through the relationship between Eru and Haruka.

"It seems like Therese-dono is interested in Earl Baumeister, but there are many nobles who are annoying due to that matter. If you proposed your daughter as a marriage partner for Earl Baumeister, there will certainly be those that pop up, who will talk about the possibility of a pincer attack of Helmut Kingdom and Earl Mizuho Country against the empire." (???)

In order to not inspire such wariness, High Earl Mizuho believes it to be plenty if he watches the promotion of trade and the marriage between Eru and Haruka.

"However, it has many difficulties in store." (Wendelin)

I have to completely destroy the jamming device operated by Duke Nürnberg for my own sake.

For that reason I'm cooperating with Therese as it's indispensable for the liberation army to win, but the internal affairs of the liberation army are a mess.

Although it might be a good match for the rebel army, it's possible that the voices in favour of a troops dispatch will increase in the Helmut Kingdom if both sides continue the civil war for too long.

Even if they won and obtained occupied territory, the kingdom will be exhausted as well if they fail in the rule of that occupied territory.

The ones who will be happy will likely be the nobles that secured themselves some territory? If they fail in governing it, they will end up crying afterwards though.

"We have to have Therese-sama do her best." (Wendelin)

To the bitter end it was for my own sake, but it's also my true feelings that I don't want to see the picture of a young woman getting killed after losing in a civil war.

"Wendelin, I'm sorry for various things today." (Therese)

"Ha!?" (Wendelin)

Once I ponder about Therese's situation, I suddenly could hear her voice and my face got wrapped up in a soft sensation.

"Therese-sama." (Elise)

The voice of Elise, who is next to me, is cold, and the reason for that gradually became clear.

Wearing a thin silken dress, Therese pushed her breasts into my face.

"Ah~~~. How soft........ Not!!"

"Dear, do you feel that comfortable?" (Elise)

For an instant I was enthralled by that pleasant sensation, but I snap out of it due to Elise's chilling voice.

"Umm. Relatively." (Wendelin)

Elise was slightly scary, but I tried to answer boldly while showing my dignity? here.

"Therese-sama, I believe that to be improper..." (Wendelin)

"I'm happy that Wendelin went that far and spoke up for my sake at the meeting." (Therese)

"It's not particularly only for your sake, Therese-sama. I'm not that belligerent..." (Wendelin)

I recall saying what I wanted to say, but it shouldn't have gone as far as picking a fight. Besides, those were things I merely stated for my own sake.

"Thou don't have to be shy about it. As reward, thou may as well enjoy my breasts to thy heart's content." (Therese)

Therese, who has more tension than usual, purposely ground herself against me while pushing her breasts into my face.

Each time she moves, the soft sensation of her boobs assails my face. I'm assaulted by a feeling that makes my sanity fly away.

"That group despises me with the excuse of me being a woman. Thee remarks were very helpful." (Therese)

"I'm not a noble of the empire though..." (Wendelin)

"As high-ranking noble in Helmut Kingdom, thou have distinguished military deeds of being undefeated." (Therese)

The subjugation of two dragons, the dispute with the Margrave Browig household, the escape from the imperial capital while taking Therese along, the first battle at the field encampment and lastly this time's military accomplishments at the Talberg Mountain Fortress.

No matter which country, a noble that has distinguished military services will be respected everywhere.

That tendency is all the stronger because of the long period without wars. Even the reason for young Duke Baden to hurry was because he wanted to get an advantageous position in the election of the next emperor by obtaining deeds of arms.

Since the majority of the voters at the emperor election are nobles, distinguished military services will greatly contribute to the acquisition of votes.

"Even thou are still young, thou have stated thee opinion fair and square and recognised mine own authority as supreme commander, Wendelin. Thanks to thou plainly speaking of the dangerous situation of the liberation army, the eagerness of those guys cooled down as well, I think. It's mine own thanks for my command having become easy. It's fine for thee to fully enjoy my breasts. They won't diminish by thee doing that either. Hence, enjoy them without holding back. After that, thou can freely..." (Therese)

"Please quit it already!" (Elise)

However, this situation continuing is not really amusing for Elise. She forcefully tears apart Therese and me, and then pushed her own breasts into my face.

"Elise's are slightly flexible, I guess." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin, although she can match me in size, something like Elise's firm breasts is no fun, right?" (Therese)

"They are better than yours which are sagging, Therese-sama." (Elise)

"This is odd. My breasts are still not sagging. If thou want to see the proof for that, I don't mind freely showing them, as long as it's to thee, Wendelin." (Therese)

"There's no need for that!" (Elise)

Elise and Therese continue to glare at each other while intense sparks fly between their two big mounds, or rather huge breasts.

"So, what did you come here for, Therese-sama? Certainly you don't mean to say that it's for the sake of pressing your breasts onto our husband?" (Ina)

Without a moment's delay, Ina hurled a question loaded with sarcasm at Therese.

It seems that she's also enraged about Therese's conduct.

"My breasts are an advance payment of the reward. There's a reward for Wendelin for this time's case." (Therese)

Basically the reward for us has become a piecework payment.

Since the reward will increase the more active we are, it has already become quite the sum of money due to the distinguished war services and the construction of the field encampment.

It has been decided that it will be paid in one swoop after the war, but since the full sum will probably become vast, she is also hinting at the possibility that it will be paid in instalments.

Originally that's not good as she's creating debts towards me, but as it seems that the damage to the empire will be big due to the civil war, it means that she will pay in instalments while adding an interest to it. It would be a hard fight if we weren't here, but if we are, the reward will be costly.

As she will be exposed to a great disgrace if she refuses to pay up, Therese should be quite troubled in regards to the calculation of money. She might intend to somehow lower the reward with her breast attack against me.

"Reward?" (Wendelin)

"I will give thou something that can be paid in advance. An honorary peerage." (Therese)

"An honorary peerage? Like Katharina?" (Wendelin)

"It's something close to that." (Therese)

According to Therese's explanation, there are many cases where those, who obtained achievements in the empire, are appointed to a honorary peerage for life.

"Originally I wanted to appoint an official peerage to thee." (Therese)

"I won't accept that." (Wendelin)

"I guessed so." (Therese)

If it's an official peerage, it will end up creating the problem of "Who will be the one to succeed it?"

As long as it's a honorary peerage for life, it won't be any kind of problem since it will vanish once I die. No, that's not entirely true, but in the current situation we can't confirm it with His Majesty either.

I feel like there will be problems in appointing an honorary peerage to a noble of a foreign country, but refusing that kind of reward will be next to rude. In the current situation, I probably have no other choice but to accept it.

"In reality I want to appoint one to Doushi and Burkhart as well, but if I do too much, that will also increase the problems. Wendelin, if thou are treated as noble in the empire, thou will be able to state thy opinion in military operations from now on, too." (Therese)

It will result in me not being recruited for something like the Talberg Mountain Fortress capture in a situation where it's unknown what for, like the other day.

If I consider it now, the position of a mercenary is truly an insecure one. There's the possibility of being treated as disposable tools against those who are hostile. I would have no other choice but to accept it.

Then again, if I consider that's she's attacking with sex appeal, it's a truly detestable weak point she's going for.

"We will perform the official conferring of decorations tomorrow, but thou will be given the court rank of an honorary Earl. Since thou will receive an annuity until thou die, I don't think that there's any harm in accepting it." (Therese)

"Good grief... You put me in a situation where I have to accept it..." (Wendelin)

"It's because I'm compelled to act like this as Duchess Philip. But, it's the truth that I like thee as a man, Wendelin. Absolutely never doubt that." (Therese)

The story from Therese ended at that point.

Afterwards, as if imaginable from her outfit, she intends to participate in the barbecue party that has been organized by us.

She immediately received a sake cup and a plate with meat on it from Haruka.

"This kind of informal eating is fun." (Therese)

Therese sits down in the seat on the opposite side of Elise and drinks some wine.

Ebbo, who is guarding her from behind, scowled to a degree that no one understood.

To begin with, Therese was the most important person for that guy and he hates me. Therese bestowed the honour of her coming to my private party, told me about the conferring of decorations herself and in addition pressed her breasts into me by hugging.

If we were mutual enemies, he would doubtlessly come aiming for my head. However, if he aimed for that in the current situation, far from only falling into disgrace, Therese would become a target for punishment.

Because he's not that much of an idiot, he assigned himself to work as faithful retainer of Therese. In his heart he's probably fuming with rage though. I guess Ebbo ignores me by thinking of me as air.

"Is it all right for you to appear at such place?" (Wendelin)

"I have entrusted quite a bit of my work to Alfons after all." (Therese)

"That is, my condolences....." (Wendelin)

Accordingly, I expect Alfons to not be here. If it was slightly back in time, he would have likely participated in such event happily.

"Good grief, do thou want to make me empress? Or not? I can relax at this kind of event." (Therese)

Therese might be worn out from managing the nobles who despise her because she's a woman and due to the heavy responsibility that accompanies the position.

"It's quite difficult, isn't it?" (Elise)

"As I'm leaving the governing to someone else, I can't say anything." (Katharina)

Elise and Katharina look at her sympathetically, but that stops at once. Therese suddenly clings to my arm and presses her breasts against it.

"It's really difficult for me. Please support me from now on as honorary Earl." (Therese)

"What are you doing all of a sudden?" (Katharina)

"『Storm』, eh? It's because Wendelin now also serving as noble of the empire is an auspicious event. The petty officials of both countries that love precedents will try to nag about it, but such things will naturally quiet down once Wendelin and I obtain achievements while being close. We have to get along with each other as well."

"Please think about the public gazes!" (Katharina)

"At this event?" (Therese)

As this event is treated as eating in my house, peerage and social status basically gets ignored.

In reality, High Earl Mizuho, Burkhart-san and Doushi kicked up a fuss while happily drinking booze together.

"With there only being great alcohol, it's the best." (Burkhart)

"It penetrates through the organs!" (Armstrong)

"You two are resilient. Alright! Losing in drinking here is not worthy of the reputation as High Earl Mizuho!" (Earl Mizuho)

Probably because they don't want to get involved, they are making more noise than necessary while putting aside their ranks.

"Erwin, you drink as well!" (Armstrong)

"It will be troublesome if you can't drink to some extent now that you've become an adult. Here, drink up this sake cup within a count of 3." (Burkhart)

"I have brought a shochu with high alcohol content. You will drink it up after diluting it with Kabos fruit juice, First Retainer of Earl Baumeister." (Earl Mizuho)

"I can't drink this much all of a sudden......" (Erwin)

Eru, who got caught by the three, had a bright red face after being offered large quantities of alcohol.

He's completely like a newcomer that got caught by his superior at the company's welcome party for the rookies.

"That place over there is an exception." (Elise)

Elise took her gaze off Eru who searches for help in the surroundings. As a matter of fact, she might actually have a good character.

"If I do that at an official occasion, it will get troublesome due to all the formality. Therefore, I will aim for skinship like this during such an event as this. Do thee have any complaints about that?" (Therese)

"That is....." (Katharina)

Due to Therese's question, Katharina fumbles around with her words at first. However, apparently having come up with something, she immediately went for the counterattack.

"I do! To seduce someone's husband in front of me who is his wife! Even if you consider the difference in social status, that's outlawry! It's nothing but a troublesome and reckless deed!" (Katharina)

"Ooh! That's a sound argument." (Therese)

Therese agreed to Katharina's strong criticism without getting angry.

"In that case!" (Katharina)

"Don't mind it. Even if there are countless women around Wendelin, I won't mind it at all. A man like him is someone women compete over to begin with. Also, if I become an official wife or lover, it won't be any outlawry either." (Therese)

"Wha......" (Katharina)

Due to the statement Therese declared boldly, Katharina's expression changes as if the maliciousness had been extracted from it.

"Geez. Even though no one would kick up a fuss if I were a man." (Therese)

Certainly, it's as Therese says.

A male prince-elector can request to make the female noble he fancies into his wife.

In that case it's a truth that the nobles would end it with saying something along the lines of "Being fancied by Duke ○○, isn't that an honour for that young woman?"

"Duke Nürnberg is a stubborn conservative that also dwells in reminiscing about the old days. If that man becomes emperor, it will likely get too oppressive for a female family head. Only that much makes it worth to overthrow him. He's someone I want to finish off quickly." (Therese)

Therese has been burdened with hardships since being a young child.

Once they realized that, Elise and the others were unable to say anything.

'But, she's also a female fox......' (Wendelin)

Inducing the sympathy of others, Therese enjoyed the food and alcohol for around two hours after that while linking arms with me.

"Therese-sama." (Ina)

When Ina, who noticed Therese's intention, tries to tear her off me, she uses another remark that appeals to another difficulty next.

"Thou have to prevent those opposing it at tomorrow's conferring of decorations ceremony." (Therese)

"—!!" (Ina)

Because she knows of my feelings that it's wrong if I don't go to the imperial capital to destroy that device, Ina ground her teeth in anger while unable to stop her.

"Ina-chan, you are unexpectedly persistent." (Luise)

"It's necessary to believe in Vel-sama here." (Wilma)

Wilma and Luise have expressions of having completely given up.

Watching my state of earnestly trying to avoid it, one might think that Therese is something like a typhoon.

"I will endure a bit of skinship. I'm an adult woman after all." (Luise)

"However, it will be a forced removal if she aims for something like a fait accompli." (Wilma)

However they declared that they will forcefully get rid of her if she tries to use force high-handedly.

No matter how much Therese can use the sword, she shouldn't be able to win against the fighting strength of Luise and Wilma.

"The small ones among Wendelin's wives might be scary....." (Therese)

Therese drew back a bit due the declaration of those two.

"I had fun today. I will come here again." (Therese)

It's questionable whether it was peaceful, but the barbecue party, including the intruders, ended safely.

* * *

Today various things happened, but since I'm worn-out either way, I want to go sleep soon.

"Dear, you can't show any carelessness towards Therese-sama. From now on you won't sleep by yourself." (Elise)

Once I enter the bedroom, Elise is waiting for me while wearing a negligee. It has been decided that I will sleep in turns with my wives again from today onwards.

"As it's already late, I don't mind sleeping normally together. That's because it seems like she will start making sneak visits if it's only you, Wendelin-sama." (Elise)

There was no one else besides Therese who would do that, but certainly, the possibility of that happening is high.

Since she's the chief commander of the guards inside the encampment, it will happen one way or another.

"Let's sleep together then? Today it will only be sleep though as I'm sleepy after all." (Wendelin)

"That's fine with me for today. However, I have a single request." (Elise)

"Request?" (Wendelin)

"Yes. It's something I heard from Ina-san before. If a woman uses the arms of the man as pillow at such time..... is it no good?"

Elise, who asks me with upturned eyes while looking embarrassed, was adorable in a different way from Therese.

"It's fine with me. Let's sleep early then in preparation for tomorrow?" (Wendelin)

"Yes." (Elise)

Once I allow her to use my arms as pillow, Elise immediately falls asleep as if feeling relieved.

She hasn't participated in direct battle, but since there doesn't exist a battlefield with no injured people, Elise, who was in charge of healing, should have been busy.

"Good night, Elise." (Wendelin)

Exhausted from the continuous use of magic, I closed my eyes and immediately departed into the world of dreams.

Chapter 91: Is this hypocrisy or a voluntary activity?

"With his achievements until now, I intend to grant the peerage of an honorary imperial Earl and the position of staff officer in the liberation army to Wendelin von Benno Baumeister, but what are thy thoughts on that, Sirs?" (Therese)

The next day, Therese formally announced the appointment of my post and the conferring of decorations for me to the nobles who had gathered.

"No.... There are no particular opposing opinions."

"Earl Baumeister has actually achieved plenty of meritorious deeds...."

"There was never an instance of holding peerages in both countries so far, but if it's a honorary peerage, it's limited to lifetime...."

I didn't know what they are thinking inside their heads, but there was no one among the nobles who openly objected.

There should be many who don't look fondly at me, a foreign noble, obtaining authority in the liberation army.

However, if they remove us, who are an influential military asset within the liberation army, at this point in time, it's very likely that they will lose the decisive battle against the rebel army.

There's no doubt that complex emotions are clashing inside their chests.

"How will the appointment be carried out?"

"By that thee mean?" (Therese)

"The capital's imperial palace is under the control of Duke Nürnberg."

An elder noble voiced out his sole worry.

Only the emperor can assign peerage. It's been said that Emperor Urquhart the 17th has been put under house arrest after getting caught by the rebel army. Duke Nürnberg is assuming the seat of emperor on his own devices.

It was a way of calling that hasn't sunk in much among the rebel army since it's a coup d'etat administration, but even so, news that he has independently started to grant peerage and positions streamed in, too.

It looks like he has begun to award the territories and peerages of the nobles that were killed after clashing with the liberation army or got eliminated at the time of the coup d'etat to his own loyal retainers.

"No matter how much that man has alleged himself to the imperial throne after gaining control of the imperial palace, that's nothing more but a fabrication. It will be fine if our side does a formal conferring of decorations after liberating the imperial capital. Since it's a time of war now, it will be a temporary conferring of decorations." (Therese)

Thus I became an imperial noble with the condition that it's limited to my lifetime.

Originally I would have needed to ask His Majesty in the royal capital, but thanks to that jamming device, communication with him is impossible.

With its effective range being strangely wide in accordance with the obstructed magic being limited, no kind of information from the kingdom has reached us for more than a month since the start of the civil war.

Even if they would send a messenger this way, it should be difficult for them to arrive with the empire's south and centre belonging to the rebel army's domain.

Which reminds me, I wonder what happened to Earl Schulz and the others that had come to the empire?

It seems that several magicians got killed, but I don't want to believe that Duke Nürnberg is as foolish as putting his hands on nobles.

If he went as far as massacring them, it will turn into a situation where even His Majesty has to consider sending out a punitive force.

There's also the honour as a state before worrying about profits. If one thinks about it in the long term, it's the state's duty to turn giving a punishment into a profit.

It was certain that this isn't a world where things will be over with just a bit glossing over.

"According to the intelligence of our spies, it appears that Duke Nürnberg himself is finally leading the army." (Therese)

It seems that Therese diligently gathered intelligence about the rebel army.

Both armies had such a large scale that they would produce corpses in the ten thousands in a second battle, but he might have thought that it won't get settled if it stays like this.

There were reports about the rebel army running large-scaled mobilisations.

Even our allies' liberation army that opposes them is trying to gather as much military potential as possible.

However, since they are mainly messengers using fast horses, information won't reach us in real-time, no matter what we do.

The point that it took time was frustrating.

"So, how's the difference in combat strength?"

"The rebel army has around 120.000 soldiers while we have approximately 90.000 soldiers."

Since I don't know how much the empire can mobilize at maximum, I couldn't judge whether that's a lot or a little.

"Is this the limit of forces we can barely muster?"

"Both sides can't dispatch that many troops."

If one considers the number of people in the empire, it should be possible to mobilize 1.000.000 soldiers in theory.

But, in order to reach that number, it's normally indispensable to conscript the commoners such as farmers and craftsmen.

However, once they do that, the productivity of the areas under the direct control of the empire and the territories of the nobles will drop.

With the income of the recruited people decreasing, the taxes won't be paid either.

The people, who were recruited as soldiers, won't receive anything but pocket money as wages, although they will be guaranteed the minimum amount of necessities for life.

It's even possible for them to get rewards if they put in great efforts in a war, but there's also the trap that those people, who are strong to the degree of being able to play an active role, have become career soldiers to begin with. Honestly speaking, normal commoners shouldn't be able to perform that well.

The reason for plundering to be allowed in the past wars was the necessity to compensate for the reduction of their income.

Something like raping women apparently saves on the money to pay for a prostitute, if spoken by a guy with a sharp and nasty tongue.

It's a cruel story, but that's what a war is about.

"It's best to keep the combat forces to the bare limit by assembling soldiers while making sure to not drop the productivity as much as possible."

Even so, that's probably a problem that causes headaches for both sides.

Since there's the decline in productivity and the interruption of the flow of goods and money between the hostile spheres of influence of both powers, there's also the issue of a deterioration of economic activity due to the traffic and distribution being paralysed.

"Going by the lack of combat forces, Duke Nürnberg and therefore the coup d'etat administration is struggling harder with the strengthening of their foundation than they expected."

The strategy of getting rid of the annoying nobles through the liberation army succeeded to some extent, but now there are voices showing anxiety towards Duke Nürnberg's military talent popping up due to the defeats.

Even the battles just a while ago were strategically a victory since the rebel army took all the stolen bases back, but tactically it's a fact that there had been overwhelmingly many war casualties on the rebel army's side.

This time's large-scale mobilisation seems to be for the sake of wiping out those worries.

"For Duke Nürnberg that means that he couldn't shave off our military strength as much as he had planned. Oh well, there's no other option but to meet the enemy on the battlefield." (Therese)

Therese's strategic plan is to intercept the enemy at this field encampment and to press them to retreat by making them accumulate damage. There was no one who objected to this.

"Since I will announce the deployment tomorrow, make sure to not be negligent in your preparations."

The meeting finished with the announcement of how we will intercept the rebel army and the conferring of decorations for me.

Once I tried to leave the room, I got kidnapped by a smiling Therese. For some reason it resulted in me having to struggle with a large amount of documents in her office.

"Why? And moreover, why this many?" (Wendelin)

A pile of documents was stacked up in front of my eyes.

Even during my time as trading company worker, I never had to deal with such a huge amount of documents.

"Thou are a staff officer, right?" (Therese)

"Wasn't that just in pretence?" (Wendelin)

"Even if it's just a pretence, it will be great if my documents decrease with that." (Therese)

"Before that, processing documents isn't the task of a staff officer!" (Wendelin)

"If I, as the most important person in the liberation army, order it, even a staff officer has to process documents from that moment onwards." (Therese)

"(What an arrogant attitude....)" (Wendelin)

It's just natural, but if you move a large army, a large quantity of documents will be generated by only that.

Since the rebel army controls the imperial capital, they can simply leave it to the government's bureaucrats by treating it as them cooperating, but the liberation army heavily leans the burden on the retainers of the Duke Philip household.

The High Earl Mizuho household and the Duke Baden household are helping out as well, but the other noble houses don't have any experience with organizing an army that had been gathered on such a large scale.

Getting confused by military movements they are not familiar with, they couldn't assist at all.

"Though I don't think that I can stand up to the task...." (Wendelin)

Even so, due to my habits from my time as salaryman, I began to read the documents at once.

Since it looks like Elise and Ina can help me with that, we begin checking the details written in the documents assigned to us.

"Ina, what about Luise?" (Wendelin)

"She ran away." (Ina)

"That's what I thought." (Wendelin)

Her brain isn't bad, but something like paperwork is impossible for Luise who lives by partly following her instincts.

Even going by her character, she's bad at such detailed work. Thus she already ran away at lightning speed.

"Elise, what about Wilma?" (Wendelin)

"I think it would be difficult for Wilma-san...." (Elise)

Wilma was skilled at hand-writing, but she had basically no experience with paperwork.

Since her father-in-law is that person, I'm pretty sure he didn't teach it to her either.

"How about Katharina? That girl seems like she would be unexpectedly alright with this." (Wendelin)

"She appears to be busy with another job." (Elise)

According to Elise she was apparently entrusted with the task of training the magicians with Burkhart-san.

Her mana won't grow from now on, but she wants to compete with good efficiency and thus gets taught by the veteran Burkhart-san.

She has been asked by Therese. Katharina apparently serves as Burkhart-san's assistant.

"What about Doushi?" (Wendelin)

"Vel, do you really want to entrust Doushi-sama with paperwork?" (Ina)

"Dear, I believe that to be the most unsuited work for uncle-sama." (Elise)

Being told that with serious looks by those two, I had no other choice but to silently nod.

Certainly, I feel that just imagining the appearance of Doushi swiftly working through a large amount of documents in my head is already odd enough.

As it will immediately become troublesome for him, it gives the impression that he will blow his nose with those documents.

"Uncle-sama has gone to dig trenches against horses outside the encampment." (Elise)

It looks like he was recruited to increase the number of trenches that proved useful in the previous defensive battle so that cavalry units can't approach.

Nevertheless, going by the image, you might say that it's the work that fits Doushi the most.

I could easily imagine Doushi digging trenches as a physical worker.

"So, it's us three, huh?" (Wendelin)

Ina, who is studying diligently the most, and the perfect superwoman Elise.

We decide to look through the documents that seem to be uncomplicated.

"A full report regarding the army's organization? Since Earl Rolzas and Viscount Heinen are on bad terms, to not station them close to each other.... a full report from Viscount Schindzielorz?" (Wendelin)

"Currently I'm planning to reshuffle the 90,000 troops into three army corps." (Therese)

According to Therese's strategic draft, she plans to become the general of the central army corpse and leave either the left or right side to young Duke Baden.

"The remaining side will be filled by High Earl Mizuho then?" (Wendelin)

"No. It will be included with the centre. His household is special. Also, if I suddenly give him a superior command rank, the nobles below him will likely oppose that. In reverse, even the Mizuho army will hate it to be commanded by a noble whose face they have never seen." (Therese)

The difficulty of consolidating and commanding the feudal armies of the nobles lies here.

The numbers and skills of the military forces the nobles lead are varying. Even if you place a certain noble at a higher commanding rank, they will just end up wasting the far too particular feudal armies and that will become a seed for quarrels in the future.

And even before that, just thinking about the formation was already a headache-inducing problem since the liberation army is entirely made up from feudal armies. Thus a superior commander might deliberately try to waste the the military forces of a noble they dislike, or conversely, the nobles might not listen to the superior's orders and oppose them.

"Although the rebel army might have it easier, it's just a matter of how much easier."

Since there are many nobles making it thus inevitable, it's also possible that one gets betrayed on the battlefield once it turns into a close battle.

If you organize the army while keeping that in mind, the army's strength and efficiency of the command structure will drop.

Therese expected that it's likely only the feudal army of Duke Nürnberk household and a part of the imperial army that can be relied on in the rebel army.

"However, even so, the rebel army is superior in regards to numbers and skill." (Therese)

"That's because the imperial army is with them." (Wendelin)

As a standing army they probably have actual experience at the level of maintaining public order, but as they have regularly received training in group combat, they still enter into a higher category.

"In the end we can only rely on the feudal army of Duke Philip household and the Mizuho army, huh....?" (Wendelin)

Things like the full reports from just a bit ago are nothing but a part of the difficulties.

There are many considerations to be taken in regards to combining them. Despite the roughly 90.000 troops being split into three groups, they won't become 30.000 troops each.

Only the centre will have 40.000 soldiers. If the army corps with the lowest amount of 20.000 soldiers struggles, we will likely end up sending out reinforcements.

If you neglect them, it will result in the rebel army getting ahold of the field encampment’s earth wall.

"In addition, there's also the situation of the emergency food stores, the lists of equipment to buy.... Why is it that expensive?" (Wendelin)

Even though it's the trade of daily necessities, the prices were staggeringly high to an extent that even I as amateur realized it.

"There are many rats like those."

Therese attaches a red label to the document I found, immediately calls the retainer in charge with a bell and orders to punish the person responsible for that.

If close to 100.000 humans gather, there will be a set number of those who commit a crime.

In addition there are cases of theft among the units, fights between soldiers, not paying money to the peddlers who visited the encampment and raiding the neighbouring villages with several people to rob the villagers and to rape the village's women.

It's no good if Therese doesn't give a final judgement for these as well. The colour of fatigue dyed her face.

"After overcoming these difficulties, there's the decisive battle with Duke Nürnberg. Even though it should finish sooner or later, just how many casualties will be generated from taking the imperial capital and Nürnberg Dukedom....?"

And after the war they have to elect a new emperor.

It seems mostly decided with Therese as empress, but she should once again end up with troubles due to the reorganization of the torn empire once she gets enthroned.

I believe her to be pitiable, but if I show an odd sympathy with her here, she will very likely request the fulfilment of the fait accompli.

Hardening my heart, I should probably operate in a businesslike manner here.

In short, it's best if I silently carry out the processing of the large amount of documents.

"Finally done, eh....?" (Wendelin)

"Wendelin, thou seem plentifully capable as feudal lord, too." (Therese)

"That's because I'm a feudal lord, more or less. Though only in name." (Wendelin)

Which reminds me, I wonder whether Roderich is successfully advancing the development of the Baumeister Earldom?

I didn't think that information not flowing in could have been that inconvenient.

"Come to think of it, won't thee go to the first-aid station, Elise-dono?" (Therese)

"Today uncle-sama is in charge if there are any injured people." (Elise)

Trying to have Elise go to the field lazaret which is her original task, does Therese plan to seduce me during that time?

Since her intention was plainly visible, Elise didn't leave my side.

"Doushi is?" (Therese)

"As a matter of fact, recently he has learned 『Holy Healing』." (Elise)

"That person overturns the common sense of the magic society in various ways." (Therese)

It's understandable for Therese to be surprised.

Usually the growth of the mana pool stops when one becomes around 20 years old, but his is still continuing to grow even after passing 40 years in age. He even reached the point of being able to use 『Holy』 magic which he could barely activate until now.

However, since it won't work unless he holds onto the other side while healing or attacking, the healing, which also served as practise for Doushi, had a bad reputation among the soldiers.

『I want to get healed by Elise-sama.』

『Me too. Even if it has the same effect, it's different in various ways to Doushi-sama's healing.』

『You can say that again.』

I fully understand the soldiers' feelings.

Even I would definitely choose Elise if I had to receive medical treatment.

There's most likely no one who wants to get hugged by the over-40, muscled daruma (buddhist monk)-like Doushi who has a scarier face than a yakuza.

"Though I can heal myself to some extent." (Wendelin)

According to what master said, I have quite a bit of talent in it, but since my healing magic uses the 『Water』 attribute, it's slightly different from Elise and Doushi.

Since there's no difference in healing things like injuries, you might as well say that it's the same, but as I don't have that many chances to practise it, the problem lies in me being slightly inexperienced in using it, I suppose?

"I guess I will practise it some since there will be a large-scale battle soon?" (Wendelin)

"That's a good idea, I think. I will help you as well." (Elise)

"That's very reassuring." (Wendelin)

Elise's healing magic was really excellent.

I had seen healing magic before, but the way of using a special, written magic circle that magnifies the effect if it's minor injuries, the wounded and sick get healed all at once after gathering on top of the magic circle.

Because her mana has increased, the number of people she can deal with per day has grown as well. Elise has become very popular among the soldiers.

There were even soldiers that worshipped her by calling her 『Saint-sama』, but in proportion to that, my reputation has fallen.

Things like "Earl Baumeister has to die for having married Elise-sama!" has spread mainly among the unmarried soldiers.

Incidentally, there were also others who said, "Even the other four are nothing but beautiful wives! Earl Baumeister has to die after all!"

Of course there's no one who says that publicly, but even in this world the jealousy of men seems to be something deep-rooted.

However, I wonder what's that 『after all』 about....

"That only natural since we are married. We can use healing magic together." (Elise)

Elise's remark was filled with thorns.

There's no doubt that she has said it towards Therese.

"Certainly, I can't use any magic. But, Elise-dono, thee use 『Holy』 magic while Wendelin uses 『Water』 healing magic. Even as amateur I know that it's considerably different." (Therese)

However, Elise undauntedly retorted to Therese,

"I don't think that you are aware of it as amateur, Therese-sama, but even if the attribute is different, the healing magic is the same. There are also many shared aspects like the means of imagination and the mana control." (Elise)

"I didn't know that." (Therese)

"Then, please excuse us at this point." (Elise)

Once Elise says so, she links her arm with mine and leaves Therese's office.

I was curious what kind of expression Therese behind us has with Elise openly linking arms with me, but since I'm scared, I purposely made sure to not look back.

"(I couldn't say anything. How scary....)" (Ina)

"(I'm afraid as well....)" (Wendelin)

Ina whispers to me in a way so that only I can hear it. I agree with her opinion, too.

During the clash between Elise and Therese, Ina continued to silently sort the documents until we left.

In the end it's true; the character of a person will become apparent at such times.

"You must not be negligent towards that person." (Elise)

"In the end you became an imperial noble didn't you, Vel?" (Ina)

Even though it's limited to my lifetime, it's still nobility.

I considered even the possibility of the reward being dodged, but did Therese think that I would refuse it with that as reason?

The condition is that the currently approved pay system continues, too.

In regards to the financial part, the pay towards us will follow after the war.

If we win, there will probably be plenty of fortune from the crushed Nürnberg Dukedom and the imperial government to take. With her stating that there's no need to actually consider the case of losing, this part makes one actually feel that Therese is a noble.

"I had to accept the peerage anyway." (Wendelin)

"That's right, isn't it....?" (Elise)

If we hadn't been mercenaries, I would have refused to take part in the previous dispatch towards the Talberg Mountain Fortress.

It was unknown just what kind of decision-making led to such an order, but the current me is an aide of the staff of Therese, the supreme commander of the liberation army, as imperial Earl.

If she places me at her side, the probability of me getting manipulated and crushed due to reckless orders will be low.

Elise seems to think that Therese's temptations will increase accordingly, and it actually turned out like that.

"Looking at your current situation, Vel, it's a dirty move since she knows that you have no other choice but to accept it, right?" (Ina)

As Ina says, I have to accept it because the awarding of an honorary peerage to me has benefits for Therese and me.

Hence you can say that I have been toyed with by Therese's ability as noble.

"Even if we worry about it, there's no point. Let's go to Doushi?" (Wendelin)

"Yeah. Though you can expect the patients to scream." (Ina)

As Ina expected, after going to the field lazaret we saw the figures of patients screaming and Doushi who healed them one after the other by hugging them while emitting a bluish-white light from his entire body.

"——Nua~~~!"

"That's no even a real injury. As a man you don't have to scream about something of that level." (Armstrong)

"(I think he simply hates being hugged by you, Doushi....)" (Wendelin)

And, although Doushi is probably restraining himself and hugs them lightly, the soldiers should feel like being strangled by a vise.

From the point of view of patients with bone fractures, it's probably natural for them to harbour the image, "Didn't our injury actually get worse?"

The soldiers, who are waiting for healing, gathered in one place and trembled like kittens.

"Doushi, I will take over for you." (Wendelin)

"Is that fine with you, Earl Baumeister?" (Armstrong)

"I will do it while being taught by Elise-sensei." (Wendelin)

"In that case, I can have a peace of mind I guess?" (Armstrong)

Although Doushi says that, I'm not that bad at healing magic.

At least I don't hug the patients.

Once I switch with Doushi, there are ten-odd sick people and soldiers who got injured while working on the field encampment construction which began for the third time.

There's no combat and since they have been healed by Doushi and the other healers, the situation was like that.

I immediately begin with the healing of a young soldier who received a cut on his arm.

After disinfecting the wound with alcohol, I cast a small heal on it and it completely recovers right away.

"If it's a lightly injured patient, that should do it, I guess....?" (Wendelin)

Next I treat a patient who ended up with a bone fracture after getting pinned under lumber.

Since it's a simple bone fracture, I cast healing magic after affixing the broken part with a brace, and it got immediately healed with that.

"Thank you very much."

Moreover I heal the ten-odd patients one after the other, but it wasn't that much of a struggle since there wasn't any heavily wounded person.

"There's nothing I can teach you." (Elise)

"Sooner or later there will definitely be something I will need you to teach me, I'm sure." (Wendelin)

I follow up on Elise who pouted because there's nothing for her to teach me.

"I didn't have much opportunity to practise healing magic...." (Wendelin)

"Won't you participate it on the nursing round once you are done with that?"

"Nursing round?" (Wendelin)

"Yes. We will proceed with the healing in the small cities and villages around this area."

I'm encouraged to become one of those doing nursing rounds by an elderly priest who manages the field nursing.

Since they are inconvenienced by the war, we heal for free after visiting villages and cities which usually don't have any healing magicians. While at it, there also seems to be the intention to raise the approval rate of the liberation army.

It's something they will come up with if it's a slightly quick witted noble, or rather, it seems to be Therese's idea.

"We won't go that far."

"Making a round trip from here takes around half a day. Though we will use horses."

It will turn into training for my healing magic. That's far better than combat.

* * *

We mounted horses and headed out on a nursing round.

"Is it fine if you aren't present at the field encampment, Vel?" (Luise)

"Duke Nürnberg's forces haven't arrived yet." (Wendelin)

On top of the Dosanko horse, to which I finally became accustomed, I answered Luise's question in such manner while riding together with her.

Me, Luise, Ina, Elise, Eru and for some reason Doushi have come along on the nursing round. We are heading towards a village with three Dosanko horses.

The other members are all busy and thus stayed behind in the field encampment doing other tasks.

"I hear we won't get attacked all of a sudden since the area is getting scouted diligently as substitute for communication magic being unusable. At least for today there won't be any problems with going on a nursing round." (Wendelin)

"After all it will be troublesome if you get summoned by Therese-sama, won't it?" (Luise)

"I thought that being a staff officer would be a pretence, but today I had to file documents all of a sudden...." (Wendelin)

"With her liking you, Vel, and by placing a amazing magician of your rank at her side, Therese-same is capable of appealing her own strength to her surroundings." (Luise)

As Luise says, Therese has locked onto me as a man and as a noble.

Getting away from her in the name of work is acceptable, I guess.

"I got mostly used to horses, but it's painful that I can't use the magic four-wheel." (Wendelin)

"Indeed...." (Luise)

The 『Magic Four-wheel』 refers to the car we took out of the underground storehouse in the Demon Forest.

In addition there are also a bike which is called 『Magic Two-wheel』, things similar to bulldozers and shovels which are called 『Magical Construction Devices』 and devices like farm tractors which are referred to as 『Magical Farmwork Devices』.

All of it has been sold to the kingdom's magic tool guild, but it has been predicted that it will take a lot of time to reproduce those due to the technological gap.

I also put some into my magic bag, but they won't move at all because of that jamming device.

I don't know what kind of contrivance it is, but it's a really troublesome device.

The wheeled magic tools are probably recognized as 『Movement』 type magic.

"If we use it here, on imperial ground, the nobles and merchants might get annoying in their wish to obtain one as well." (Wendelin)

"That's true, I suppose." (Luise)

I guess you can say that it's only natural that we carried out the experiment on whether the magic four-wheel can be used here secretly when Eru and Haruka weren't present.

Since it would be convenient for travelling if we could use it, I planned to do so while handling the annoying bunch, but with even the moving magic tools being hindered, Duke Nürnberg has developed an outrageous device.

No, I should say that he excavated it?

"Dear, we will arrive anytime soon now." (Elise)

"There won't suddenly be heavily wounded people that are about to die, right?" (Wendelin)

"I would expect that kind to be quite rare...." (Elise)

"Eru, there are no enemies around, right?" (Wendelin)

"If there was an enemy attack inside the territory of the liberation army, that would become Therese-sama's responsibility. This place is close to the field encampment, too. It's very unlikely. Though I will continue to be vigilant." (Erwin)

Just as Eru said, there were no enemy attacks along the way. Once we arrived at the village's entrance, we were greeted by a crowd of villagers.

"It looks like we will be able to receive medical treatment with magic today. That's very appreciated."

A white-haired elderly man, who appears to be the village headman and looks like he's past 70 years in age, extends his greetings towards us as representative of the villagers.

"With there being no healing magician in this village...."

Even though there are priests in the church, it doesn't mean that all of them can use healing magic.

There are many priests, who can't use magic, that mix medical plants, they have studied on their own, into something like pharmaceutics and prescribe those.

Just because the church is supported in rural villages, that doesn't mean that they are only preaching.

However, medicine is expensive. The village has become poor due to the current war.

Even though they are close to the northern highway, their income vanished due to the pedestrian traffic decreasing.

Performing nursing rounds was also for the sake of avoiding their criticism.

Since it's likely that they will cooperate with the rebel army before we can notice it if we leave their dissatisfaction unanswered, it's indispensable to follow up on them.

"Well then, let's start right away?" (Wendelin)

"Can you heal as well, dear sir?"

"I'm still inexperienced, but leave it to me!" (Armstrong)

The village headman apparently thought of Doushi, who's accompanying us, as guard.

It was obvious that he's a magician because of him wearing a robe, but the first impression of him doesn't hint towards him being able to use healing magic due to him completely looking like a destroyer.

Elise, who always wears the attire of a priestess, and me as well appear to be users of healing magic going by our outward appearance.

"It's warmly welcomed that you have many people with you."

"Are there so many injured and sick people?" (Wendelin)

"It's not just our village. As we were contacted by Duchess Philip-sama in advance, patients from the villages and cities in the vicinity have gathered here as well."

"That makes sense." (Wendelin)

Rather than us going around each and every village, it's more efficient if they gather in one place so that we can heal them all at once.

Probably Therese thought so as well and thus gave out such directive.

"Let's start then?" (Wendelin)

We immediately split the large number of patients into two groups.

One group consists of women, old people and children. The other group has only men.

If you ask why, that's of course because that person is present.

"You have sprained your foot? Let me treat it swiftly." (Armstrong)

"Ugyaaa~~~!"

"A grown man won't scream due to this level of injury!" (Armstrong)

"No, I believe this person has screamed for another reason." (Erwin)

You can't call it anything but misfortune that the man receives his treatment while being resolutely hugged by Doushi due to a sprain.

There's no way that he can complain about it since it has been completely healed, but I think you can easily declare that the reason for the men, who are receiving his treatment, to raise screams isn't the pain of their injuries, just as Eru says.

"As Elise says, it will be fine to leave you in charge of the women, children and elderly, Vel." (Luise)

While making the patients waiting for treatment lining up in order, Luise calls out to me.

There would be an ethical problem to let Doushi hug the women. For the children it would likely develop into a trauma. And it seems that it would be quicker for me to receive the old people. Thus it was decided that I will be in charge of that group.

While sometimes receiving advice from Elise, I cast one healing spell after the other.

"It hurts~~~!"

"Hahaha! It can't be helped! Erwin-lad, hold him down even stronger!" (Armstrong)

"Yeah, yeah...." (Erwin)

The male patients are treated in succession while getting hugged by Doushi.

Since there were some among them who acted violently, Eru helped out by holding all of them down.

"Somehow it looks like I'm doing something evil...." (Erwin)

Due to Eru's comment, we answered 『We fully understand』 in our minds.

"The way of using healing magic over here is peaceful and nice."

An old woman, who received healing from me, expresses her impression, but the sensation given by me performing healing magic is normal.

The one done by Doushi is a rare exception.

"I got mostly used to it now." (Wendelin)

"Umm.... Do you have a moment?"

After safely performing the healing of several hundred people, it's finally the turn of the last person.

The patient is a young woman who didn't seem to be particularly injured or sick, but there were quite conspicuous burn scars on her face.

I'm told that she ended up getting her face scalded in a fire several months ago.

"It doesn't affect her life, but this girl is scheduled to marry next month...."

"In that case it would be the best to make her face beautiful." (Elise)

As a fellow woman, Elise was enthusiastic about her treatment.

"I agree with that, but how do you plan to treat it?" (Wendelin)

As a matter of fact, it seems that these burn scars had been treated with healing magic once already.

The burns themselves got cured, but terrible traces were left behind.

It seems that there are many such examples, but the scars shouldn't vanish even if we cast healing magic in addition here.

As I'm troubled, Elise teaches the healing method to me.

"There's something we have to do first. Please give me a knife with a sharp edge." (Elise)

Once I hand the knife to Elise, she calls out to the woman with the burn scars.

"Please endure because I will cut out the burn scars." (Elise)

She says that and applies a medicine to the wound that softens the pain at the time of treating the injury, though it doesn't go as far as working as anesthesia. Then she begins to cut out the keloid-like burn scars with the knife.

Occasionally the woman shifts her body due to the pain, but without minding that, Elise cuts out all the keloids.

The affected parts and both hands of Elise are stained in blood.

"Dear, please use powerful healing magic." (Elise)

"Got it." (Wendelin)

As for the idea; you first cut out the parts with the keloids and then recover the skin with healing magic from the scratch, I suppose.

It used up a slightly bigger amount of mana, but clean skin regenerates gradually at the wounds.

A few minutes later, once Elise wiped the affected parts with a wet cloth, the burn scars had completely vanished.

"Ooh! Amazing."

"What's amazing is Vel's magic, isn't it?" (Luise)

Although Luise says so, the treatment would have failed if Elise didn't know of the method of cutting out the wound once.

"However, it has regrown beautifully...." (Wendelin)

That means one won't be able to heal all injuries and illnesses by just casting healing magic.

This kind of accumulated know-how is probably something you can call the church's strong point.

"With this you will be able to marry without any worries." (Elise)

"Thank you very much."

The young woman, who had completely recovered from the burns, thanked Elise and me.

"Your husband will likely feel relieved as well." (Elise)

"As a matter of fact he has come here together with me. He protected me during the fire. Since he suffered even worse scaldings...."

"Eh? Is that so?" (Wendelin)

The looks of everyone hurriedly turn towards Doushi.

It's because we were very worried about the safety of her fiancé.

"Burn scars, huh? Let me offer you a healing." (Armstrong)

"Doushi! Normal healing magic won't work!" (Wendelin)

"The proof is in the pudding. It will be fine if I try my secret technique. Hmph!" (Armstrong)

Doushi made even more bluish-white aura gush out of his body than until now and at the same time embraced the young man who has terrible burn scars on his face.

It doesn't look like an act of healing at all. It gives an impression similar to bringing down some powerful, ominous monster.

"Hii! Fnuaa~~~!"

"You will get married, right? If you are a man, endure it!" (Armstrong)

We end up lost for words due to that absurd scene.

Even though Elise, an expert, has said that it's no good with just healing magic, Doushi ignored that and restricted the patient with strength and mana beyond the amount used until now.

It's supposedly medical treatment, but no matter how you look at it, it doesn't look like one.

The young man continues to scream due to being hugged strongly, but there was no one who could prevent it.

Even though her fiancé was in such state, the woman stood still on the spot unable to say anything due to the overwhelming shock.

And a few minutes later, we witnessed an impossible spectacle.

The burn scars had completely vanished from the man's face.

"Why?"

"It's probably because of the very powerful 『Holy』 healing magic." (Elise)

"However, if it's me, I will choose Elise's method." (Wendelin)

"Indeed. Even though it will probably hurt a bit...."

Though any kind of injury will get healed, depending on its degree, the time and strength one has to get hugged by Doushi will increase in proportion.

Except for a really terrible emergency, it was a magic I didn't want to experience overly much.

"Sendorick! Are you alright?"

The young man has lost his consciousness after his burns got healed. His fiancée, who had her burns healed likewise, drew close to him and eagerly nursed him.

He will wake up around one hour after this, but even though both of them had their burns finally cured, there was no one who faced Doushi with a feeling of respect.

* * *

"I wonder whether that person called Sendorick is doing fine?" (Erwin)

"Haven't his burn scars been healed completely?" (Wendelin)

"No, well, I mean his emotional scars...." (Erwin)

The nursing round finished safely with a favourable reputation.

All the patients have been treated by Elise's and my healing magic. Since today is almost over, it resulted in us lodging in the village.

Because there was fortunately a vacant private house, we decided to rent it after getting the village headman's permission.

『Umm.... it's a vacant house with nothing in it....』

『Please don't worry about it since we have brought our furniture along.』

As I have stored everything, beds, chairs, cookware and other furniture in my magic bag, I think that we are guests who don't require much effort.

Given that the income of the villagers has fallen due to the civil war, I believe that it will be fine with this because they would get unnecessarily impoverished if we demanded too much from them.

However, as it seems that they will feel sorry if they don't do anything at all, we had them just deliver food to us.

Elise and Luise used that as ingredients for making dinner.

Using a big pot for preparing 『Miso Stew』 on the magic portable cooking stove, it's a dish that was independently developed by Elise.

Judging from the view of a Japanese, it was a dish that looks like a variety show, but after actually eating it, it's delicious.

It's a strange stew that matches with bread and rice.

In addition, they made salad, grilled the monster meat that I had stored in my magic bag and prepared things like ready-made desserts, but since it looks fine to leave it to just the two of them, I talked with Eru about the previous healing of Doushi.

"Emotional scars, you say. It's not like it has gone that far...." (Wendelin)

"Well, then how about you if you were in Sendorick-san's shoes, Vel?" (Erwin)

"I would have probably decided against it." (Wendelin)

Since Doushi left for a walk while at the same time making a sightseeing tour in the village, I frankly expressed my opinion.

No matter how close I might have been to death, I would want to avoid Doushi's medical treatment as much as possible.

Though it would be inevitable to accept it if I was really about to die.

"Didn't even the wife thank Doushi with a doubtful expression?" (Erwin)

In a certain village a man and a woman, who had a relationship of being childhood friends, had an accident in a fire. The man got burned badly due to protecting his fiancée. The woman also suffered terrible burn scars on her face.

The burns were healed with a priest's healing magic, but the priest, who was in charge of the burn scars, couldn't do anything about them.

It's unfair to demand such level of skill from priests like those working in a village.

Rather, for there being a priest, who can use healing magic, present in the village is usually a miracle the village should be thankful for.

But, for the young man and woman, who would marry in the near future, it would be pitiable to have the burn scars remain as they are.

This was the reason why the two of them came here.

"The woman's side was beautifully healed by Elise, and the man's side by Doushi. Even though it's a very emotional story, I can't feel any deep attachment to it at all." (Wendelin)

"As you say, it's a very moving story, isn't it, Vel? Usually...." (Erwin)

Elise's healing method was splendid.

Going by extreme logic, if the practitioner of healing magic has a powerful imagination and a huge mana pool, healing magic is capable of regenerating even a lower body half if it has been blown off.

Though it's a great event if even one such person lives within a century.

With limited mana one can heal plenty of heavily injured people to some degree, I suppose?

The secret of healing magic lies in this point. The ones who have gathered the most know-how is actually the church.

There are many people who learn simple healing art and pharmacy as priests who got newly appointed to a particular area with a church which exists in every village.

If it's minor injuries and illnesses, they will cure it to some degree even if they don't use healing magic.

It seems like occasionally the method of supporting the patient with emergency measures and having the local priest call for a priest that can use healing magic during that time is used as well.

In recent years corruption became an issue in the church, but even now they are wielding a powerful authority since they provide help on practical issues such as these.

Since they are helpful, they are able to obtain a fixed level of support.

"Elise did something amazing." (Wendelin)

"It looks like a technique that's usually used in the church, but I'm not well-versed in magic." (Ina)

Changing the skin, which had turned into keloids after being healed once, into its originally beautiful state is something unexpectedly complex.

As a huge mana pool is necessary and since the affected parts are cut out once, it's the application of a unique method of using healing magic.

Something like a bone fracture will naturally be fixed by restoring the broken bone into its original position.

Without doing that, you usually have to cast healing magic several times and the bone will end up growing together in a strange shape.

"That means Elise has an understanding of simple healing as well." (Ina)

"That's amazing, I think." (Erwin)

"Yeah. She might be 10,000 times smarter than you, Eru." (Ina)

"I can't refute that...." (Erwin)

Eru studied things like military command techniques for the sake of his future, but he had the shortcoming of having a slightly bad memory.

Ina, who read documents from the past, has an overwhelmingly quicker uptake than him. Nowadays it has taken the shape of him studying while asking her to explain.

"I'm a sword-idiot anyway." (Erwin)

However, it's not like Eru has no talent as army commander.

As he has stood and fought at the front-lines several times by now, he excels at swiftly finding and exploiting the weak points of an enemy army.

For a front-line commander that's likely the best ability, was the evaluation of Thorsten.

"Unexpectedly Elise isn't shaken even if she sees blood."

"Even I had to puke the first time that happened."

Everyone will equally vomit after seeing mountains of corpses as remains of a battlefield for the first time, but it wasn't like that for Elise.

She might have already seen corpses during medical treatments.

She mentioned that she healed adventurers who got attacked by monsters after accepting a request from the adventurer's guild in the past.

"Elise has a far stronger heart than us." (Ina)

"Rather than her, the exception with various parts that are too strong is Doushi." (Wendelin)

Hugging a patient who had keloids on his entire body, he completely restored the patient's skin with nothing but 『Holy』 healing magic.

Considering it logically, I feel like it's a waste of mana, but you can also say that there's no problem as long as he can heal the patient.

Of course, even if Elise and I use the same method, we wouldn't have been able to completely heal all the keloids of that man.

That's an aspect of Doushi's absurdness.

"You can't describe Doushi with anything but 『simply powerful』." (Wendelin)

Him appearing on the battlefield, his usual conduct and even today's healing magic, all of it is powerful.

The surroundings drawing back from him due to his overwhelming strength is, well, normal, I guess.

"I have become hungry. Please hurry it up with the food." (Armstrong)

While we were having such chat, Doushi returned. Elise and Luise, who had already finished preparing the food, carried the dishes to the table.

"I got hungry since I did something I'm not used to." (Armstrong)

"Dear, please eat plenty." (Elise)

Although there are many people who tell her that that it's fine even if she doesn't do stuff like cooking since she's the first wife of an Earl, Elise didn't want to stop cooking by herself.

With my other wives being the same, even Therese has been curious about that.

At the same time of me thinking that it's only natural since I'm also working as adventurer, it has been kind of useful to not get involved with weird women.

"Even I'm able to cook to some extent." (Therese)

Therese said something like that, but frankly speaking, it's quite doubtful.

Does a busy Duchess-sama really prepare her food personally? I doubt that.

"For today we will go sleep soon. It will be fine if we return tomorrow morning, right?"

"Correct. There's probably no patients left anymore."

Since there's also the movements of the armed forces of Duke Nürnberg, it would probably be best to return ahead of time just for caution's sake.

And even before that, there was the issue that there's absolutely no entertainment in this village.

"Let's play play cards until we go sleep." (Luise)

As there's no bath, we make do with the 『Cleaning』 spell for today. It has been decided that we will sleep together with everyone by lining up the beds.

We decided to sleep together in the same room in order to stay cautious just in case.

Since it's still early, we play cards according to Luise's wish.

"Luise, despite being the first person to suggest it, it's once again the Daihinmin." (Erwin)

"I don't want to be told that by Eru, the needy.*" (Luise)

(T/N: The loser of the game is called daihinmin (the extremely needy) and the winner gets called daifugou (the grand millionaire))

In this world playing cards had already existed and various ways of playing with them had spread, but as Daihinmin didn't exist so far, I decided to invent it.

Since it gets exciting if you do it during free time, there are many cases where we play it at night after having left to hunt.

"Vel, you are strong...." (Luise)

"I think it would be problematic if the inventor was weak." (Wendelin)

For a while I continued to win as first, but suddenly Doushi puts out four cards.

"It's a coup d'etat, right?" (Armstrong)

"Wh-!? What do you mean with that?" (Wendelin)

"Hooray~~~!" (Luise)

"It's a turn-around!" (Erwin)

Only Eru and Luise are delighted by the unknown 『Coup d'etat』 of Doushi. I fell to daihinmin.

Because it's Daihinmin, it's probably correct to call it 『Revolution』, but as it's a word people aren't very familiar with, we have changed it to 『Coup d'etat』.

If it's a coup d'etat, there were occasionally situations in history such as 『Earl ○○, who was the Minister of Military and Naval Affairs, has fallen due to a coup d'etat inside the kingdom』. Thus they were able to understand it.

Even the rebellion that has occurred in the empire, seems to be called coup d'etat by Therese and the others.

They don't appear to be overly familiar with the word 『Revolution』.

"Damn it. The 2 I possess has...." (Wendelin)

In the end I stayed daihinmin until the end of the game.

I wasn't blessed with card luck to once again cause a coup d'etat.

"Since it's a rare, great victory, I will be able to fall fast asleep." (Luise)

"It's the same for me, too." (Erwin)

The expressions of Luise and Eru, who won for a change, are cheerful.

Since it's usually me or Ina who win easily, they look quite happy.

We didn't place any bets or such, but it seems they were genuinely happy about having won.

"Let's sleep soon. Vel, use that." (Erwin)

"Got it. Doushi. Excuse me." (Wendelin)

I cast the 『Silence』 spell on Doushi.

If I didn't do that, it would become impossible to sleep in the same room with him.

His snoring was that intense.

"....Though I don't feel anything at all." (Armstrong)

"I have never heard of people waking up due to their own snoring being too loud." (Wendelin)

"Well, do what you must. The 『Silence』 spell has also the effect of protecting against the noise from the surroundings...." (Armstrong)

Saying that, Doushi lied down on the bed and departed into the world of dreams within less than 10 seconds.

His speed of falling asleep is terrifying.

Since he also worked as adventurer, he probably mastered going to bed early, rising in the early morning, eating quickly and shitting swiftly.

Although it might seem vulgar, we were actually told those words quite early at the adventurer prep school.

"His speed of falling asleep is enviable, isn't it?" (Erwin)

Eru admired Doushi in that regard.

He might be snoring, but thanks to the 『Silence』 spell, we can't hear any of that.

With this we will probably be able to sleep peacefully.

At the moment I thought that, there's suddenly a knocking at the door.

Once Eru opened it while staying cautious, the village headman and a 12-13 years old girl stood there.

"Village headman-san, do you have any business with us?" (Erwin)

"——Yes. Today we couldn't properly thank you for healing the sick and injured of not just our village but also the settlements in the vicinity. Since our village is currently in a state of being cut off the circulation of money and goods due to the civil war, there's only few things that could serve as reward, but...."

"A reward is unnecessary." (Wendelin)

Instead of Eru, I clearly refuse any rewards.

With the pacification of the imperial citizens, who are inconvenienced due to the civil war, as our objective, accepting a reward at this point would be putting the cart before the horse.

"However, that would be unthankful. Thus I was wondering whether this Philine could serve at your side, Honorary Earl-sama."

"I'm called Philine. Please take care of me by all means." (Philine)

"Umm.... I have plenty aides——" (Wendelin)

"——We thank you very kindly." (Elise)

Once I try to refuse, Elise forcibly interjects and takes charge of that girl.

It was an unexpected development, but as it seems that the village headman was relieved for us having accepted her, he closed the door right away.

"Elise?" (Wendelin)

"Etto, Philine, was it?" (Elise)

"Yes. You are Elise-sama, right?" (Philine)

"Since it's now time for everyone to sleep, we will listen to your story tomorrow. Good night." (Elise)

"Yes. Good night, Elise-sama, master, everyone." (Philine)

Since Philine is still a child, Elise put her to sleep in a bed and she immediately drifted off into the land of dreams.

I'm certain, she must have been worn-out from being nervous.

"By no means did I expect you to accept her, Elise." (Luise)

"I agree with Luise's opinion." (Erwin)

Luise and Eru are surprised by Elise's decision.

Even from my point of view, nothing but some speculations come to mind.

Because a noble, who can use healing magic, came to the village, they presented this girl as reward.

Telling her to work for me means that the village's side doesn't care whether it's as maid or as lover.

"I have heard that a village will offer a woman when a noble visits." (Elise)

"That happened in the old days." (Wendelin)

I don't know about the empire, but such things apparently happened at the time when the kingdom's domain was much smaller.

Of course it was only in the area under the kingdom's direct control, but there were reasons for doing it such as for the sake of having blood from outside enter the village and in case they didn't do a reception when a noble came.

Now there's a certain degree of exchange with the outside even if they don't do something like that. Since it will complicate the succession if there's some illegitimate child, it's actually the nobles' side that avoids this.

After all they think that it's fine if they go to a brothel or shelter a lover they found themselves, if they want to play around with women.

"Well, then why give her to me?" (Wendelin)

"It's probably proof that this village has no leeway." (Erwin)

In short, it's been decided that the girl, who's currently sleeping peacefully, isn't needed in this village.

Leaving her to me, they probably plan to decrease the mouths to feed, even if it's just by one person.

"In case of a man, they can till the fields. They can also go out to hunt." (Erwin)

Young women, who bear children, are precious, but since their productivity is low in reverse, there are also cases where they are given away.

As Eru says, there are also many girls who are sold off to bad brothels.

"This girl isn't an orphan, is she?" (Luise)

"Maybe...." (Elise)

It might be as Luise says. But even without that, she's a girl that's treated as unneeded by the village.

Elise probably realized that she would receive a far crueller treatment if I refused to accept her.

"Increasing our maids in this situation, eh....? Let's treat her as apprentice and then send her as bride to some place once she becomes an adult." (Wendelin)

Since she's still a minor, she probably won't mind being treated as apprentice.

Elise and the other will likely teach her housework and such. If I guarantee her necessities of life and give her a bit of pocket money, it won't cost that much either.

As for the possibility of not being able to return to our territory due to losing the civil war, I didn't want to think about this.

Just thinking about it pointless.

"But, does Vel currently need a maid?" (Erwin)

"We are here after all." (Luise)

Since I'm being taken care of by five wives in rotation, Philine might certainly be unnecessary.

Or they seem to even consider the possibility of me making a move on her even though she's still a minor.

"Isn't she still a child?" (Wendelin)

I should have had the same age as her when I subjugated a dragon, but even I felt that I have grown old after seeing a young girl like her.

"We are still 16 years old though." (Erwin)

"Though we are facing difficulties that don't correspond to our age." (Luise)

"That's true. Luise, you don't have to unnecessarily think about that." (Erwin)

"I feel like it's a somewhat deceptive way of talking. The adult, sexy me doesn't give a damn about your nonsense though, Eru!" (Luise)

"Don't hit me then...." (Erwin)

Eru, who treated Luise as a child, was lightly hit by her.

However, one might say that Luise's and Philine's appearances weren't that different in age.

Rather, there would probably be many people who would consider Philine to be the elder of the two.

"So, what will you do, dear?" (Elise)

"If I abandon her, I won't be able to sleep peacefully...." (Wendelin)

I might have abandoned them with composure if this was a middle-aged man, but that wasn't agreeable for a cute girl.

However, if I take her in with no concrete plan, there's the chance that it will cause other women to go for the same. Honestly, she was a girl that was troublesome to deal with.

"In short, it will work as long as others don't think that she's attached to me." (Wendelin)

"Such a method exits?" (Erwin)

"Indeed! I will make it happen!" (Wendelin)

"How?" (Erwin)

"As my retainer, and in spite of being a candidate for chief vassal, he hasn't even employed a single maid." (Wendelin)

"There was such a guy?" (Erwin)

"Yes. He's in front of my eyes!" (Wendelin)

If it turns into a problem for me to accept her, it will work fine if I leave her to Eru.

It will be alright if he takes care of her until he sends her away as bride after she becomes an adult, and it will also be okay if he keeps her as concubine or mistress if she suits him.

You could call it a very splendid idea.

"Me?" (Erwin)

"Yes. Once we return to our territory, you will have to build a mansion and carry out your life with Haruka. Think of it as practise for that." (Wendelin)

"Vel, aren't you trying to push her onto me?" (Erwin)

"There's no such thing. You also think that Philine is pitiable, right? Hey, Elise." (Wendelin)

"That girl is an existence similar to a sacrifice. We have to take care of her somehow. Of course we aren't able to save all the girls in such situations, but I believe that some kind of fate is at work here." (Elise)

Once I pass the talk to Elise who accepted Philine, she persuades Eru with praiseworthy reasoning.

Eru shouldn't have the ability to object to that.

"I think that Eru is scared of Haruka." (Luise)

"I see. She's already dominating him." (Wendelin)

"Haruka-san is quite level headed after all." (Luise)

Luise skilfully provokes him that it's because Haruka will be angry if he returns home while bringing another girl along, albeit her being a maid.

"As if that's true! If I explain the circumstances, the kind Haruka-san should accept her!" (Erwin)

"Isn't a single maid fine then?" (Luise)

"Ugh...." (Erwin)

He got splendidly stuck by Luise's incitement. Eru ends up approving the reception the girl.

"If you like her, it will be fine if you really make her your lover. Though it's unlikely for you to say that since you are scared of Haruka." (Wendelin)

"Vel, you know...." (Erwin)

"This girl is quite adorable. Because you are a lustful man, it might happen, right, Eru?" (Luise)

"Luise, the lustful man here is your husband." (Erwin)

"Why should I be?" (Wendelin)

"Since you have five wives." (Erwin)

There's nothing I can reply towards Eru's reply, thus I stay silent.

But, believing that Eru is gradually getting used to the thought of accepting her, I played my trump card here.

"Eru, it's your lord's order." (Wendelin)

"Your lord's order always has the worst possible meaning! I will ask Haruka-san, okay?" (Erwin)

It was an acceptance with conditions attached, but since he has to ask Haruka, it's clearly showing the current situation for Eru.

"Vel, it's just as I have said, isn't it? Eru is already...." (Luise)

"I guess she's really dominating him." (Wendelin)

"That's not true! We are just discussing things properly since we will become a married couple!" (Erwin)

At the time when it was decided to accept Philine little by little like that, Doushi, who is the oldest here, slept by himself while snoring heartily.

Thanks to the 『Silence』 spell, that sound didn't leak to the surroundings at all though.

Chapter 92: A new enemy? And an unexpected reunion

"I look forward to it since I never left outside the village." (Philine)

"As we are right now in the middle of a civil war, we won't go to overly wonderful places though." (Wendelin)

"That's okay. Philine will follow master." (Philine)

"Hey, Vel...." (Erwin)

"Master, do your best." (Wendelin)

"Currently I'm slightly upset at you." (Erwin)

Early morning of the next day after we performed the nursing round, we mount our horses once again and return to the field encampment.

Our numbers have increased after adding the girl called Philine, who was pushed on me last night by the village chief, to our group.

On the way back she was in high spirits while riding a horse together with Elise.

As it seems that she never left that village even once after getting born, everything she's see around us appears to be novel to her.

Happily chatting with Elise, she enjoys the scenery on the way while looking delighted.

"What about your parents, Philine?" (Elise)

"I was told by the village chief that my mother died soon after my birth and my father is somewhere far away." (Philine)

"Is that so? It was difficult to be all by yourself, wasn't it, Philine?" (Elise)

The kind elder sister Elise was used to handling children because she looked after the orphans in the church.

While talking with each other, she extracts information about Philine's circumstances skilfully.

And Eru, who had Philine pushed onto him by me, is in the middle of his deliberation how he should actually explain things to Haruka.

In my eyes the two are still at the state of engagement. Until now I never saw them making out much because the situation is as it is.

At most they have been training their katana techniques together, I think?

Though it's probably physically impossible anyway since Takeomi-san is bound to come disturbing them without a doubt if they act too lovey-dovey.

That guy is restraining the two by often repeating 『Right now is a time of war』, but his real motive is very likely that he doesn't want to see his younger sister and Eru getting along well since he's a severe siscon.

"There won't be any problems if you treat her as normal maid apprentice. Am I wrong?" (Wendelin)

"I can't refute as it's definitely a sound argument...." (Erwin)

Making a move on Philine en route or changing her into his concubine; that's Eru's own responsibility.

I don't have any time to get involved with that.

"Vel, if you get carried away, you will pay for it sooner or later, you know?" (Erwin)

"I will bear it in mind as admonition by a loyal retainer." (Wendelin)

We return to the field encampment without any particular issues.

When I went to Therese to report that we finished the nursing rounds safely, she blurted out something unthinkable just as she saw Philine.

"——What!? A new concubine?" (Therese)

"No, it's not. Elise took her in." (Wendelin)

"All's well as I don't particularly mind. No matter how many wives thou have, my feelings won't change, Wendelin." (Therese)

"Please give up on that already." (Wendelin)

"That's impossible." (Therese)

"Impossible, you say...." (Wendelin)

Therese presses and I dodge.

These days even the retainers of the Duke Philip household have reached a state of looking at us indifferently while hiding their criticism.

As expected, they got used to it, didn't they?

"I'm a woman that won't lose heart." (Therese)

"Make sure to use that will-power of yours for ending the civil war and ruling the empire." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin, saying what the gentlemen over there are already insisting on is a killjoy. I want thou to entertain me more." (Therese)

"There's nothing about that in the job description of a temporary staff officer." (Wendelin)

It's not like Therese has the hobby of enjoying getting verbally abused by me. At most it seems to be at the level of her having me amuse her by acting in a role similar to a clown that entertains a king, since I possess a honorary peerage for convenience.

Of course I turn that down since I don't have such resourcefulness.

Only people owning outrageous talent can become the clown of a king after all.

Otherwise they would immediately provoke the king's wrath and end up getting executed.

However, that doesn't mean that it's fine if they use cynicism and abusive language.

"She's a fairly cute girl. What's thy age?" (Therese)

"Yes, Duchess Philip-sama. I'm nine years old." (Philine)

"You are big...." (Therese)

Elise learned various things about her on the way, but Philine appears to actually still be nine years old.

Accordingly, contrary to her appearance, her speech and conduct has childish aspects.

"In addition, the colour of thy hair is characteristic, too...." (Therese)

Philine had silver hair which we had not once seen in the empire yet.

"My deceased mother said that my father had silver hair." (Philine)

"Really? People with silver hair are rare in the empire though." (Therese)

Due to Therese's statement, the place got engulfed in silence all of a sudden.

If there are no silver-haired people in the empire, all that's left is for them to be very likely from the kingdom.

"Even if they are from the kingdom, they won't be plain commoners, right? There's no friendship between the two countries except for the trading decided by the Friendship Visit Group...."

As Luise says, that means her father is either a merchant, a noble or a member of the Friendship Visit Group entourage, but even in the kingdom there aren't that many silver-haired people.

Among nobles they are few, too. As far the most renown household among them is concerned, there was no one except that person.

"It's Margrave Breithilde-sama, isn't it?"

"Luise, are there any possible candidates?"

"If it's limited to big-shots at the level of being chosen for the Friendship Visit Group, it's only Margrave Breithilde-sama." (Luise)

"Dear, the hue of this girl's hair colour is exactly like that of Margrave Breithilde-sama...." (Elise)

Certainly, Philine's silver hair looks almost identical to that of Margrave Breithilde.

Without looking at Elise, even I couldn't think of someone's hair colour that resembled her's except that of Margrave Breithilde.

"Philine, there's something we have to talk about...."

"Please ask me anything, master." (Philine)

"(I'm her master as well, huh....)" (Wendelin)

Since we won't get anywhere even if we talk here, we decide to continue the chat after moving to our residence while also calling Burkhart-san.

"What is it? This small girl is?" (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san, who slipped out of the training of the magicians which he's carrying out in cooperation with Katharina, showed a puzzled expression after seeing Philine.

He's probably thinking that it's inappropriate for a young girl to stay at a savage field encampment.

Katharina and Doushi, who returned together, had curious looks.

"Wendelin-san, is she your new wife?" (Katharina)

"No, and, should you be the one saying that, Katharina....?" (Wendelin)

"Hahaha! Earl Baumeister, you are as jealous as you are young!" (Armstrong)

"Doushi, your misunderstanding is deep." (Wendelin)

Even though it would have been fine even if Katharina and Doushi didn't come back, I thought.

"So, who's this little girl?" (Burkhart)

"That old man is scary." (Philine)

As Philine was apparently scared by Burkhart-san who brought his face close to her, she ends up hiding behind Elise.

"I believe I'm not as scary as Doushi though...." (Burkhart)

"Doushi-sama isn't scary. This old man is." (Philine)

"Burkhart-dono, it's wrong to scare a still young girl."

"How novel, to be liked by a child...." (Armstrong)

Burkhart-san revealed an unhappy expression as he was completely feared by Philine.

As a matter of fact he might be the most displeased about being treated as an old man though.

In reverse Doushi was happy because he wasn't feared by a child for a change.

"As the talk will be long, please have these." (Elise)

"Wooow. This looks delicious." (Philine)

Philine stared at the cake prepared by Elise with shining eyes.

It was something we bought in a famous store in the royal capital. Magic is especially useful for such things.

Philine ate the fruitcake that had a great amount of whipped, fresh cream while enjoying it plentifully.

"First, this."

I show a copy of an old diary that Philine had with her to everyone.

At first we thought that the village chief presented Philine to us in order to lower the amount of mouths to feed.

However, once Elise heard the circumstances from Philine herself on the way back, somehow it actually looks that there is another reason why she was pushed onto us.

"Then give us an explanation, you shitty village chief!" is the feeling that wells up within me, but he might have feared that we would refuse given that our social standing is overwhelmingly higher than his own.

The most he could do until we return was to let us know that her circumstances are written in a book belonging to Philine.

"Damn it! That fucking village chief." (Wendelin)

"Well, don't say that. Even if the village chief of a poor village visits the guest house, where the Friendship Visit Group stays at, while bringing this girl along, it would be normal for him to get turned away at the front door right away." (Therese)

Even if he said 『I'd like to get an audience since I have an illegitimate child of an upper-ranking noble of the kingdom with me』 or similar, it would probably be normal for him to get treated as swindler.

Therese came along even though I didn't even ask her to, but she does a proper follow-up for a change.

I understand that as well, but....

"This time I have a unique chance, that old man thought, I guess."

"So, he should have told us the circumstances!" (Wendelin)

"There was also the possibility of us declining because of the troubles involved as we are also participating in the civil war, if he says it unskilfully. Or such he might have thought." (Ina)

"He didn't consider it dangerous to send such a small girl to the outside world which is a battlefield?" (Wendelin)

"And yet he thought that Vel will be able to let her meet Margrave Breithilde-sama?" (Erwins)

"I suppose he gave me a strangely high assessment." (Wendelin)

"You know, that's because you never lost in a war, Vel. Such rumours naturally spread to commoners as well." (Erwin)

I started to feel a strange persuasiveness from Eru's reasoning.

"Vel, I wonder, don't you have to read that diary?" (Ina)

"So I have to read it, huh? For the sake of making sure." (Wendelin)

I think there's almost no mistake about Philine being Margrave Breithilde's illegitimate child, but since I was urged on by Ina as well, I decide that I have to read the diary once to check.

The one copy is something that belonged to Philine's deceased mother.

It appears that she got assigned as one of the people in charge of taking care of Margrave Breithilde at the time of the previous Friendship Visit Group. That's when she had a love affair with him.

Omitting the small details of the diary about that part, she returned to that village right after Margrave Breithilde returned to the kingdom. At that time she was already pregnant.

She gave birth to Philine as unmarried mother, but her physical condition declined when Philine was still very young and her mother ended up dying just like that.

At the end of the diary was written that she's worried about her very young daughter that will be left behind.

"It seems she was in charge of Margrave Breithilde when taking care of the nobles of the Friendship Visit Group." (Wendelin)

I explain the contents of the diary in a simple manner to everyone.

"Holy cow! Not only a traveller's journal, but even making an illegitimate child...." (Erwin)

"You didn't notice, Burkhart-san?" (Wendelin)

"I guess that's because I was all the time together with just Doushi and Therese-sama last time. Let alone that master hasn't said anything to me, he even said 『Isn't it an honour to be the guard of Duchess Philip-dono?』." (Burkhart)

"I think he said that because you would have been a nuisance for his tryst." (Luise)

"That must be it...." (Burkhart)

Upon Luise pointing that out, Burkhart-san dropped his shoulders crestfallen.

"So, do you have any evidence?" (Wendelin)

"I do...." (Philine)

Philine was made to carry one bag as luggage by the village chief.

Inside were the love letters from Margrave Breithilde addressed to Philine's mother, a letter of verification stating that it's his child if a child is born despite it having been an affair for around one week and a knife that was decorated with a wonderful ornament that had the Margrave Breithilde household's family crest on it.

Or rather, if he goes that far, I think that it would have been the best for him to take her along.

Maybe he was scared of his legal wife?

"There's nothing I want to say in particular, but he's the worst." (Katharina)

The fairly blunt act of Margrave Breithilde was criticized by Katharina who is in a position that she doesn't have to hold back on nobles too much since she's a famous magician herself.

It seems that Elise and the others agree with her, too.

In that moment the reputation of Margrave Breithilde, who looks like an agreeable liberal arts youth, took a heavy hit.

"Love letters, Margrave Breithilde is a liberal arts person even at such times, isn't he....?" (Wendelin)

When I tried checking the contents despite feeling guilty about it, after taking just a look, there are embarrassing lines such as 『The sun-like beautiful you』 and 『How should I convey this throbbing excitement in my chest to you?』 written in there.

Seeing the contents, Doushi and Eru burst into laughter while rolling on the ground due to the overly embarrassing passages.

The person himself was probably serious, but seen by an outsider, it's a public execution as it's a kind of comedy.

The difference between the scornful laughter of the female camp and the foolish laughter of the male camp was surreal.

"Vel, you don't write many letters, do you?" (Ina)

"That's because I'm bad at it. Though I have more opportunities to do so than Luise." (Wendelin)

"Since it's difficult for me as well, I hate letters and such." (Luise)

I'm a man who even found sending mails in my previous life annoying.

I don't have a hobby of expressly writing unnecessary letters either.

"So, this is?" (Wendelin)

Next, another copy of a diary appeared, but the things written in there were even more embarrassing.

"『Sent to my beloved by Amadeus Freitag von Breithilde. Poems of Love』. It's completely off....?"

An embarrassing poem that seems to be something composed by Margrave Breithilde himself was recorded on that page of the diary.

It appears that traveller's journals and similar are his strong point, but he has absolutely no talent in writing love letters and poems.

To me it looks as nothing else but Margrave Breithilde's dark past.

If I had written something like that and it got leaked out into society, I would certainly consider suicide.

The quality of the poem was embarrassing to that extent.

"Margrave Breithilde-sama is unexpectedly irresponsible, too." (Elise)

"It's not a conduct that I can praise overly much." (Ina)

As it looks like even Elise, who doesn't bad-mouth others much, and Ina, who usually avoids criticizing someone in a high position since she's a common sense person, have joined in, the reputation of Margrave Breithilde as father and man has hit rock bottom at this point in time.

Believing that it would be futile even if he covered for Margrave Breithilde here, Burkhart-san stayed silent without saying anything.

I guess the sole salvation might be Philine receiving the female camp's sympathy?

"I wonder if a normal woman would be happy to receive such a poem?" (Elise)

"Umm.... I have heard that love is blind. To the bitter end it's just something I read in a book though...." (Ina)

After looking at the Margrave Breithilde's peculiar embarrassing linguistic expressions that were written in the letters and poems, Ina states her impression in a whisper.

I think that even Elise thinks that she wouldn't be happy even if she received this poem.

Ina gave quite the ambiguous reply.

"Margrave Breithilde-sama has zero talent as poet." (Erwin)

"He might have prospect as a comedian though." (Luise)

"Luise, you...." (Wendelin)

It should definitely be a hit if it's publicly shown at a noble salon, but that's not because of him having a talent to make others laugh but simply because that poem will be ridiculed.

Getting apparently ridiculed, his life span as comedian will likely be short.

But even before that, I'm sure that the person himself will be unwilling to be treated as comedian.

"So, you are saying that this girl is Margrave Breithilde's illegitimate child?" (Armstrong)

"I think all the evidence has been put together. Philine." (Wendelin)

"Yes, master." (Philine)

Me and Eru seem to be currently Philine's masters.

Once I called out to her, she answered alongside a pure smile.

A bit of fresh cream was stuck around her mouth, but since she was a beautiful girl that has inherited the blood of Margrave Breithilde, that made her all the more cute.

"Philine, you have cream on you." (Elise)

"Thank you very much, Elise-sama." (Philine)

Getting the cream wiped away by Elise, Philine looks happy.

Elise's special characteristic that is idolized by Wilma got triggered by Philine, too.

"Well, what was the hair colour of your deceased mother?" (Wendelin)

"It was light brown." (Philine)

"I see. Thanks for telling us. If you want another serving of cake, do tell Elise." (Wendelin)

"Yes." (Philine)

Philine herself apparently doesn't care at all about her own father as she seems to be entranced with the cake she's eating for the first time in her life.

It's definitely not like she's cold-hearted, rather she probably doesn't feel anything about it even if her father, whom she hadn't seen even once since being born, is mentioned.

"So, what will we do?" (Ina)

"That's, of course, hand her over to Burkhart-san." (Wendelin)

"Me?" (Burkhart)

Not expecting to be nominated at all, Burkhart-san ends up staring in wonder.

"I mean, look, she's your master's daughter." (Wendelin)

"Well that's certainly true, but doesn't it look like she hates me...." (Burkhart)

With Philine being a slightly unusual girl, she likes Doushi more than Burkhart-san who's popular with women and children.

Therefore it was dismissed by him as he wouldn't be able to take care of her himself.

"Rather, as she's a girl, have the young ladies over there take care of her." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san apparently wishes to leave the care of Philine to Elise and the others.

"How about Doushi.... I guess impossible...." (Wendelin)

Being liked by someone and being able to look after that very person are two different pairs of shoes.

Besides, given that it will turn into a problem if Philine becomes like Doushi, it might be best to prevent that from happening.

I would hate it to be blamed by Margrave Breithilde later.

"Philine, the cake is delicious, no?" (Armstrong)

"Yes, Doushi-sama." (Philine)

"That's great." (Armstrong)

"She's an unusual girl, isn't she....?" (Luise)

After all she owns the notable characteristic of being afraid of Burkhart-san, who's well-received by children and women, and instead not only isn't she scared of the unpopular Doushi, but she actually even likes him.

Even though her appearance is on the cute side, she seems to unexpectedly like strange things.

"It's your turn after all, Burkhart-san? Look, it's a good training for the time when you get a daughter." (Wendelin)

"I will consider that after my wife gets pregnant. Say, haven't you entrusted her to Eru-boy, Earl-sama?" (Burkhart)

If she she were a simple commoner, it would have been fine with that, but now that we have confirmed her the daughter of Margrave Breithilde, it becomes necessary to handle her appropriately.

Meaning, we got once again burdened with difficulties.

"That's right. I agree with my lord." (Erwin)

Even though he has no official position, the times when Eru calls me lord are mostly when there is some worthless reason for it.

Eru showed an expression of "got ya" on his face.

"In my position as retainer treating the esteemed daughter of Margrave Breithilde-sama, who is the leader of the kingdom's south, as maid apprentice is impolite. There's no other option but to leave this to you, my lord." (Erwin)

It's a sound argument, but I guess Eru cannot resist feeling happy about being able to use this as excuse to pay me back for having pushed Philine on him once.

Due to Philine's unexpected appearance, I took a trashing as payback.

"Eru, try to spell out your real intention." (Wendelin)

"No matter how you think about it, no one but you can look after her, Vel. Serves you right." (Erwin)

"I can't refute that...." (Wendelin)

Eru deliberately offered his opinion while respectfully bowing his head, but a bright smile is plastered on his face.

It was obvious that you couldn't interpret that as anything but him being happy that he pushed a seed of trouble upon me.

"Just a bit, I feel like killing you, due to that bright smile of yours." (Wendelin)

"With it being a real problem, there's no other choice but have you take care of her, Vel." (Erwin)

"Even if that's so...." (Wendelin)

This kind of banter with Eru is no problem since it's indispensable for the sake of preserving my ego as Wendelin and not as Earl Baumeister.

Given that even Eru can discern between a private and an official occasion, it won't turn into an issue either.

Rather than that, the matter was that she would definitely be forced onto me as wife if I go to return her to Margrave Breithilde after having taken care of her.

"Once Philine turns 15, Vel, you will be 22 years old. I don't think that feels out of place at all." (Erwin)

"Moreover, as she's an illegitimate child, her rank in the succession line will be low as well. So there won't be any kind of problem with that either." (Ina)

I couldn't do anything but sigh due to Eru's and Ina's opinions.

I have no doubt that Margrave Breithilde will say that as well.

"Master, am I a nuisance?" (Philine)

Just when the discussion got heated, Philine, who finished eating the cake before anyone realized, asks with her eyes tearing up.

It looks like she ended up wondering whether she's unwanted from the flow of the conversation.

"There's no way for that to be true. Since it will take some time to let you meet your father, Philine, I plan to have you learn various things during that time." (Wendelin)

"I will be able to meet father?" (Philine)

"He's in a foreign country. Because it's not possible to let you meet with him due to the circumstances, I want you to work as maid for a bit. Elise." (Wendelin)

"Yes." (Elise)

"Please use your free time to give her a basic education." (Wendelin)

"Understood." (Elise)

I placed my hands on Elise's shoulders and asked her to see to give Philine an education.

"The least amount of etiquette as noble daughter and such, I guess?" (Elise)

"Since you are probably busy as well, Elise, I don't mind even if it's one for a maid apprentice though." (Wendelin)

Since her father is Margrave Breithilde, it should be necessary for her to have a minimum of manners before letting her meet him.

We will work out an attire that makes her look real somehow or other later on. Right now the end of the civil war is the highest priority.

"If it's about that, I will help out as well." (Katharina)

It appears that the talk about teaching Philine good manners as noble pulled Katharina's heartstrings.

She volunteered to participate in Philine's education.

"Cake. Delicious." (Wilma)

Wilma, who has been silent all the time, is simply eating the cake she received from Elise while looking as if she's enjoying it.

She's probably believing that she won't be able to to teach noble manners by herself.

"Eh? Katharina, you will?" (Wendelin)

"Although my family got ruined once, I learned the things necessary for a noble without giving up. It's something I'm making use of even now. It will be fine to leave Philine-san to me with a peace of mind." (Katharina)

"Really?" (Wendelin)

"Wendelin-san, do you have any complaints about my conduct as noble?" (Katharina)

"Katharina, your conduct as noble is slightly unnatural." (Wendelin)

She's sticking too much to formality. Given that it looks as if she's using all her strength as she's always slouching, she ends up appearing as if she has no leeway due to somehow being at her absolute limit.

Also, I think it's also a problem that she occasionally spins her wheels with all her heart.

"Wendelin-san, you are too obedient. By nature that's how nobles are." (Katharina)

I don't quite understand since I became a noble all of a sudden, but if all nobles were like Katharina, I feel like that would be a problem in itself.

"Beside, it will be problematic if Philine obtains a loner characteristic similar to me and you, Katharina." (Wendelin)

"I'm telling you, I'm no loner!" (Katharina)

"A loner says that they are no loner." (Wendelin)

"Master, loner, what's that?" (Philine)

"Someone like Katharina." (Wendelin)

"Geez, I'm no loner!" (Katharina)

Philine is puzzled due to Katharina's and my dialogue.

Luise had remained silent until now, but she looked as if being downhearted.

"What's wrong, Luise?" (Wilma)

"That girl, Philine, even though she's seven years younger than me, she's close to ten centimetres higher than me...." (Luise)

Upon being asked for the reason by Wilma, Luise laments over the slow speed of her growth.

Certainly, if you were to compare Luise and Philine, the majority of people would probably say that Philine is the older one.

"But, being small makes it easy to get caressed by Vel-sama." (Wilma)

"I'm an adult woman, thus I'm not happy even if I get caressed." (Luise)

"Really? Katharina is delighted when occasionally getting caressed." (Wendelin)

"That doesn't suit her." (Luise)

"That's none of your business!" (Katharina)

Leaking the conversation between the two to Katharina, she retorts with a loud voice at Luise's statement.

In the end it's decided to place Philine at my side as a maid apprentice on the surface and to have Elise and the others take turns in educating her.

Of course it's a secret to the surroundings. I have Therese keep it confidential, too.

Given that Therese is a high-ranking noble as well, not allowing her to reveal that kind of information was willingly accepted and guaranteed by her as it's a required etiquette for a noble though her country's different.

"In exchange thou will owe me one favour. I wonder how I should have thou pay me back?" (Therese)

"...."

Even though only slightly, I ended up cursing Margrave Breithilde who isn't here.

* * *

"Therese-sama, I brought the tea." (Philine)

"Sorry." (Therese)

One week after accepting Philine, Duke Nürnberg should have gathered up his forces and come to attack according to Therese, but for some reason there's no sign of that happening.

Philine, who wore maid clothes that were adjusted by Elise, lived in our house while learning the minimum amount of manners as a noble daughter and maid.

Since she had also been a freeloader in that village to begin with, she was apparently able to handle the bare minimum of housework.

She is handling the work quicker than I expected.

That Philine pours tea to Therese who had visited our home for some reason. Therese thanks her for that.

I don't know why she came here, but I'm sure it's not for anything decent.

Her speech and conduct being bad for my stomach was, by now, a set fact.

"This is classified information, you know.... but it looks like an expeditionary force of Helmut Kingdom or something like that was annihilated." (Therese)

"Haa?" (Wendelin)

At first I didn't comprehend what Therese was talking about.

"Thanks to that device, the operation of magic airships and communication seems to have been jammed in the north of Helmut Kingdom as well. The whereabouts of the Friendship Visit Group are unknown as well. 『The royal palace of Helmut Kingdom couldn't hold back the advocates of a troop dispatch?』 is mine and that of the other nobles' reasoning." (Therese)

"His Majesty...." (Wendelin)

To the nobles, who desire achievements and territory, and the military authorities, who aim for an increase in the military budget, the disappearance of the Friendship Visit Group until now might be a big advantage.

Information doesn't flow in almost at all as the espionage network is not working with communication being impossible. So it's also possible that they were unable to restrain a call for a limited troop dispatch by the nobles who felt anxious.

However, this opinion is just a conjecture.

Without any communication, it was a problem that no news reached this place.

Even Therese is somehow gathering information by constructing an information network through carrier pigeons and the traditional fast messengers, but the degradation of speed and accuracy of those was considerable after all.

There's also the mutual killing of spies. At this time it also happened that absolutely no information came in.

"It's not definite information. But they probably aimed to occupy the north of the Gigantic Crevice once the opportunity showed itself after waiting and seeing." (Therese)

She heard that an estimated number of 5.000 to 10.000 soldiers of Helmut Kingdom's royal army infiltrated the empire's territory with a human wave tactic through a impromptu rope-way and occupied a part of the empire's territory. Duke Nürnberg, carrying out a night attack, destroyed the royal army like a gale with a cavalry unit he led himself.

"Just how weak is the royal army...." (Wendelin)

Even though they are our allies, their weakness is pathetic.

"Duke Nürnberg is a great commander if he actively takes part in a normal battle." (Therese)

Apparently he even left behind the slow-footed infantry and performed a night raid with a swift attack against the royal army which was exhausted from having just crossed the Gigantic Crevice.

Even if there's uneasiness as to combat strength with just the cavalry, he didn't want to let the advantage of opportunity get away.

You might also say that this serves as proof for Duke Nürnberg being a great commander.

"So, what about the royal army?" (Wendelin)

"It looks like quite a few nobles were defeated. Though the information as to whom exactly is lacking." (Therese)

There might have been some commanders of the royal army and northern nobles who sent out their soldiers.

At any rate, the royal army was destroyed to the point that nothing is heard of them anymore.

It's bad that they would have to cross the rope-way even if they tried to return to the kingdom. There's no safety zone as long as they don't cross the Gigantic Crevice even if they escape.

"They have capitulated after giving up, are getting finished off through a hunt for the remnants of the defeated army or are killed off by hunting down the fleeing soldiers." (Therese)

"Guess so.... So that's delaying them closing in on us?" (Wendelin)

"Will there be another troop dispatch by Helmut Kingdom? Does the kingdom adopt a wait-and-see stance after shrinking away since their troops got annihilated? The rebel army will likely close in on us after making sure of it." (Therese)

Also, if they leave the defeated soldiers alone, the public order will deteriorate.

Since it's possible that the desperate, defeated soldiers will attack villages and cities in their desire for food, Duke Nürnberg has the duty to mop them up.

"You are saying they are moving to get the support of the populace as it's a coup d'etat administration?" (Wendelin)

"After all it's completely unknown how many escaped and died, they might have encountered many unexpected difficulties." (Therese)

"I wonder how many soldiers will be forced to come along with the rebel army?" (Wendelin)

"Even though they are thy allies, thou are saying something terrifying there." (Therese)

For me the royal army counts as an ally.

However, in this situation I don't have the leeway to help defeated soldiers who are 1500 kilometres away in the south.

Crossing the rope-way of the Gigantic Crevice and making a half-assed number of troops invade in this chaotic situation is reckless in itself.

Moreover they ended up throwing the situation for our side into disorder unnecessarily. If things don't go well, this might actually become the main reason for the defeat of the liberation army.

If he pulverized a royal army of several thousands with one blow, Duke Nürnberg will likely start to talk very highly of his own deeds of arms.

There's the possibility that the number of nobles and people following him due to that will increase.

Considering that, I didn't feel an ounce of will to save the royal army whose commander I don't know.

After all they are an existence pulling our legs.

"Maybe the kingdom let Duke Nürnberg obliterate the war advocate faction that has become uncontainable?" (Wendelin)

As information about the state of the empire's civil war almost didn't flow in at all, the nobles advocating a reckless dispatch of troops grew in number within the kingdom.

Accordingly it might have developed into something like the kingdom saying 『Then, form an advance party consisting of only those like-minded』.

The kingdom might have thought that it would be a reason for great celebration if they succeeded despite the low probability, and likewise, even if they failed, they would get cleaned up by the imperial army.

There are scary people in the kingdom's government.

"From the Gigantic Crevice to here it's 1500 kilometres in a straight line. There's little hope that there's a commander who grasps the current power distribution of the rebel army and the liberation army as well as the deployment of the armies and using that, systematically gathers the remnants of the defeated army and escapes up to this place." (Wendelin)

"If there was such excellent commander, they wouldn't have gotten annihilated to begin with, I think." (Therese)

"Being told that...." (Wendelin)

"The royal army was scattered by a single strike with a adequate night attack by Duke Nürnberg, just like the seeds of balsam. However, it seems it's actually less than half the military forces that got killed in that night raid. Accordingly the rebel army seems to hunt down the dispersed remnants of the royal army." (Therese)

The information from Therese ended at this point.

Duke Nürnberg won't make a move until he destroys the hiding and fleeing royal army in the empire's south.

With those circumstances, we decide to seclude ourselves in the field encampment in the Great Sorbid Wastelands.

Even if we once again attacked fortresses and cities because of their lacking stationed troops, the military forces that would have occupied those place would get beaten just like in a whack-a-mole game, thus we will obediently stay in the encampment this time.

Since our forces grew, we advance the construction of the encampment, the mud wall and the trenches against horses while at the same time carrying out things like training and army corps organization.

Given that the number of soldiers increased, we completed something like a district where merchants that had their sight on those soldiers gathered and in addition it was also necessary to run a red-light district which is an unavoidable part at the front.

Of course that responsibility has been completely placed on Therese.

"In my eyes a red-light district isn't really necessary. But, if we leave it alone, spies will enter. Also, our combat strength will fall if diseases spread. Good grief, why does the virgin me have to...." (Therese)

Around half a month after the destruction of the royal army, Therese sighed in her office while signing budget documents for prophylactic medicine against venereal diseases that will be sold cheaply to prostitutes.

"I don't need something like a red-light district either though." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin, thou have five wives after all." (Therese)

While looking at a business license of a brothel that had been newly established, I looked for errors in the documents.

At the beginning I was slightly bewildered, but when I actually tried to do paperwork such as this, my memories from my previous life are useful as well.

"Since there might be idiots trying to attack my wives, brothels are a necessary evil, I suppose?" (Wendelin)

"That's a splendid way of thinking for a devoted husband. If thou like, I don't mind at all if thou add me into that as well." (Therese)

"Hahaha, that's a funny joke, you know." (Wendelin)

"Thou have dodged that one smoothly. However, it's only headache-inducing problems." (Therese)

Assembling the military forces and finishing their formation, we are training them now. The expansion of the field encampment goes favourably as well.

But, it's a long encampment of several ten thousand troops without fighting.

Even if you consider just their food consumption, Therese and those in charge of accounting in the liberation army are likely at their wits' end.

"The rewards due to distinguished war services are put on hold. We are even asking the nobles, who have some leeway, to provide food and money. I'm envious of Duke Nürnberg who is controlling the central area." (Therese)

She's going to have to repay the nobles, of whom she's receiving support, by adding some extras.

In noble society, words such as volunteer or donations don't exist.

No one considers the donations to the poor and the church as genuine donations as they obtain benefits in the form of reputation due to those contributions.

I will say it one more time; in noble society words such as volunteer or donations don't exist.

"The rebel army is likely managing with the national treasury of the central government, aren't they?" (Wendelin)

It can be seen well on a glance, but that's carrying on by sacrificing the precious assets of the empire.

If it's a foreign campaign, there's the chance of obtaining profits through the pillaged money and goods or territory, but since it's a civil war, the empire is just eating up its own money, food and goods.

Once the civil war ends, it's quite likely that there will only be emptiness awaiting Therese's group in the treasuries located in the empire's imperial palace.

"It's a great help that thou are here, Wendelin." (Therese)

"Really?" (Wendelin)

"Even the other nobles can't ask for anything too greedy in front of thou, Wendelin." (Therese)

I have obtained the best deeds of arms within the liberation army, constructed the field encampment, have gone on nursing patrols to cast healing magic in the occupied area in the surroundings and am furthermore assisting Therese as a staff officer. I have also provided quite the amount of food and money.

Since even someone like me hasn't received any special rewards except being conferred the title of honorary Earl, it seems to be a situation where it's difficult for the other nobles to speak up.

"If you don't provide proper rewards afterwards, it will trigger a second civil war." (Wendelin)

"That's something harsh to say. Of course I will provide satisfactory rewards." (Therese)

It's probably fully possible if it's the national power of the empire, but the empire will likely stagger for a bit due to the heavy burden on its financial affairs.

It won't work out unless she creates a new power distribution in the empire with the nobles who participated in the liberation army. For that reason the liberation army has to shave off the territories and peerages of the nobles, who participated in the rebel army, as much as possible.

But, if she goes too far with that, it will lead to a second civil war.

With the difficulty of balancing that out, I was certain that I would immediately escape and seek asylum if it was me.

That's because I think I would become like Xiàng Yǔ who was ruined due to failing in his sharing of the rewards, going by Earth's terminology.

"Really, if there was another optimal person, I would have handed it over to them a long time ago." (Therese)

"You have my condolences." (Wendelin)

"Why are thou treating it as if it's somebody else's problem? It also concerns the reward for thou, Wendelin." (Therese)

I still haven't received even a single copper coin, but with the annuity as honorary Earl and the individual request achievements as mercenary, I can look forward to receiving a decent amount of money.

Also, I'm greatly profiting due to the collection of metal resources from the abandoned mines around the Great Sorbid Wastelands.

I use a large amount of money, but since it also serves as training to increase my mana amount, it's convenient. Since I can extract metal resources from new underground veins that other magicians don't reach, I didn't suffer any losses at least.

Therese is believing them to be abandoned mines where one can't mine anything, but since it's a mountain of treasures for me, it matched the interest of both sides.

"Given that it's a considerable amount of money, I have to come up with another reward as well though." (Therese)

"A payment in kind, you mean?" (Wendelin)

"It's good that thou catch up fast. I did write up an official document as test. Thou might as well sign it if thou desire so." (Therese)

"Let's see.... Oi!" (Wendelin)

The contents of that document were about Therese offering herself to me.

Moreover, it's written in a thorough, official writing style in order to show its public validity.

Once I sign it, Therese will be formally assigned to me.

"Oi, next empress!" (Wendelin)

"Isn't it still possible that Urquhart the 17th will govern himself if he's alive?" (Therese)

"Haven't we decided that to be impossible?" (Wendelin)

Even if he's still alive, no one will follow an emperor who was driven out of political power by a coup d'etat directly following his enthronement.

Above all, what would be troubling is him deciding the reorganization of the nobles and the payment of the rewards as it suits him while ignoring the war services of the liberation army.

If he slighted the nobles, who participated in the liberation army, for the nobles, who stayed neutral, got captured or sided with the rebel army in the capital city, it would develop into a second civil war without a doubt.

"It's a joke. It's fine for thou to come to mine own room at any time if thou wish to mate with me to the best of your ability." (Therese)

"Therese-sama, it's always the same with you." (Elise)

"How about finally giving up on that?" (Ina)

"Being persistent naturally lies in mine own character." (Therese)

Elise and Ina, who quietly processed the documents while listening to Therese's and mine conversation, calmly cut her off just like always.

This had become a natural scene in the last month, but it doesn't seem like Therese has any intention to give up at all.

"Being able to receive Elise's and Ina's assistance is a great help in decreasing the workload." (Therese)

And in this one month Therese had stopped adding -san to my wives.

The act of her passing around the documents she ought to handle herself is a proof of trust in Elise and the others.

Even the stubborn Therese understands that we won't side with Duke Nürnberg's camp no matter how the dice may roll, and thus sets aside and allocates such work to us.

"Well then, today's documents are up to here——" (Wendelin)

"——Excuse me!"

At the same time as I have reduced the large amount of documents to zero, a young retainer of the Duke Philip household plunges into the room all of a sudden.

It seems that he has urgent business.

"Has Duke Nürnberg come attacking?" (Wendelin)

"No, there's a shabby, beggar-like group outside...."

Only consisting of men, they are dirty as they apparently haven't had any baths, but there are also people riding a horse. Everyone is armed and their eyes are glaring.

Once the guards wondered whether it's an enemy attack with their numbers also amounting to more than 1000 people, they were told 『We are Helmut Kingdom's royal army!』 and thus the guard came to ask for instructions how to handle them.

"Are they allies?" (Wendelin)

Travelling 1500 kilometres within a month is not impossible for the humans of this world who have a slightly sturdier body than the humans on Earth.

But, maintaining a group of more than 1000 people until this place while crossing enemy territory, which also includes mountains and monster domains, was on the side of abnormality.

"A disguise, I guess?" (Wendelin)

"Maybe there are acquaintances among them? Won't it be fine to show up there?" (Elise)

"That might be true as well...." (Wendelin)

Taking along Elise, who knows much more about the kingdom's nobles than me, I climb atop the mud wall close to the front gate of the field encampment.

Since they had thrown away their shields and armour that had their crests on them in order to not be recognised as royal army, and their beards and hair freely growing downwards, they were a gathering of a great number of men wearing dirty clothes.

Going by their looks, they appear to be mountain bandits. I can really understand the guards being nervous.

Probably they can't deny the possibility of them being actually the rebel army while looking like the remnants of the royal army.

"Do you have a commander!?" (Wendelin)

Once I yell loudly, the group divides and two men come forth.

"Huh? I feel like I have seen them somewhere...." (Wendelin)

I have a hunch that I have met them in the past, but for some reason I can't remember.

I don't recognize them all them ore since their hair and beards are freely growing out as well.

"Elise, do you know them?" (Wendelin)

"Umm.... it looks like I have healed many of them before...." (Elise)

Elise, who healed in the royal capital's church since her childhood, has, generally speaking, a large, diverse circle of acquaintances.

There are also many people who are thankful for getting healed by her. That was also related to her nickname of 『Saint』.

"Elise-sama! I'm Alexis who received the grace of getting healed by you in the past!" (???)

"Saint-sama! I received your healing five years ago!" (???)

Dozens of men express their gratitudes with loud voices once they discover Elise.

We still can't give up on the possibility of it being a disguise, but many among them remembered Elise.

And, the two men, who came in front previously, call out to me.

"Earl Baumeister, certainly I won't let you tell me that you forgot about me!" (???)

"We will be in a bind if you forgot about us after thoroughly defeating us in the dispute." (???)

"Ah, yeah! The former Browig brothers!" (Wendelin)

The two commanders were the elder brother Philip and the younger brother Christoph who opposed me in the dispute with the former Margrave Browig household and who have now become former members of the Browig household.

* * *

"Seconds!" (Philip)

"Me too!" (Christoph)

The dirty, bandit-like group that surged into the field encampment were indeed the survivors of the royal army that broke through the middle of enemy territory.

After confirming for several hours whether they are spies of the rebel army for caution's sake, they are eating as if greedily devouring the food that was put out while forgetting their manners after they got accommodated, had their hair cut, their beards shaved and entered a bath.

The other soldiers were also in the middle of eating at another place.

"You don't say, for the former Browig brothers to...." (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister, putting aside our past connection, please stop using that name." (Philip)

"Our current family name is Fröhlich." (Christoph)

The brothers, who fell from being candidates for the next family head of a Margrave household to being retainer and family head of a nominal appointed Knight household in the capital, weren't invited much to exchanges between fellow nobles and should work as government officials and military personnel due to the connections of Minister Edgar.

"I see. You say you sent out troops in an attempt to get a territory by taking advantage of the civil war in the empire." (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister, it looks like you are misunderstanding something." (Philip)

"Right now we don't have the leeway allowing us to dispatch that many troops." (Christoph)

With Philip and Christoph pointing it out, I realize the fact that they shouldn't be able the send out military forces with the assets of these two.

"Why are you together with the soldiers then?" (Wendelin)

"They are from the Marquis Läger household." (Philip)

"Marquis Läger household?" (Wendelin)

"It's a distinguished military family of appointed nobles, dear." (Elise)

Elise quietly tells me who can't recall the names of nobles well as usual.

"Earl Baumeister, it's great for Saint-dono to be your wife." (Philip)

Philip turned an astonished expression towards me who doesn't remember the faces and names of nobles well.

"I agree with that as well." (Christoph)

"Let's get back on topic." (Wendelin)

This Marquis Läger household appears to be famous for being anti-Empire diehards.

I'm told that seven family heads had been killed in wars of the past.

That means their minds are filled with resentment towards the empire, but since more than two hundred years have already passed since the last person killed in a war with the empire, the actual state of their resentment is doubtful.

"Currently, rather than calling it revenge, I think it's an antithesis towards Earl Armstrong's household and Minister Edgar who belong to the ceasefire perseverance faction." (Philip)

I knew this as well, but in reality, different from their appearances, these two households were in the moderate faction that wants to maintain the ceasefire.

They aren't negligent towards preparing for war that might happen at any time, but I believe that they don't want to go to war if possible.

"As for the true opinion of the army's top brass, I guess they are really reluctant about a war." (Philip)

As Philip says, there's actually a trend of disliking war among the big-wigs of the army.

They can secure their current positions for a set number of years if there's no war. On the other hand, if they lose once it turns into a war, they will end up driven out from their positions after being forced to take responsibility.

"The ones desiring a war are a part of the ambitious troops, or the Marquis Läger household that's currently disconnected from the main faction, I guess." (Wendelin)

"Additionally, the one who drove the Margrave Läger household into a corner is you, Earl Baumeister." (Christoph)

"Me?" (Wendelin)

Christoph joins in on the talk and starts saying that I'm the cause for the Marquis Läger household running wild.

"Why me though?" (Wendelin)

"Lately there has been a tendency towards disarmament. For the kingdom's government it was an obvious choice, but it's only reasonable that the army's upper echelons don't find that amusing." (Christoph)

His Majesty was carrying out a gradual disarmament.

But, if the share of posts decreases, the military nobles will naturally express their dissatisfaction.

"The future of that dissatisfaction changing radically into anti-Empire expedition doctrine also exists as possibility." (Christoph)

The one preventing that is me, is what Christoph is saying.

"You don't understand? It's the Pangenia Grasslands and the Herthania Valley." (Christoph)

Since the number of places that need guards to keep up the public order increased, the budgets and posts of the military has substantially increased.

Given that their budget grew even without going to war with the empire, almost all military nobles returned to their former ceasefire faction.

"That's nothing the Marquis Läger household should be happy about."

Accordingly they apparently gathered the war advocates to a certain extent and proposed a troop dispatch plan to His Majesty.

"Usually it would have ended with a rejection, but there's the suspension of communication and magic airship flight in the north and the whereabouts of the Friendship Visit Group are unknown."

No matter how much they inquired the empire about it, no satisfactory answer came.

If one considers the dignity of a state, it was a truth that they couldn't send out soldiers for the sake of checking the situation.

"So?" (Wendelin)

"With the Marquis Läger household taking the supreme command, an advance unit of 8.000 soldiers crossed the Gigantic Crevice." (Christoph)

It would have been great if they had tread carefully while quietly sending out reconnaissance units and adopting a wait-and-see stance, but the incompetent Marquis Läger split the army into units that occupied the cities and such they discovered through the reconnaissance and a unit to guard the rope-way.

"It seems that they plundered joyfully with Marquis Läger himself standing at the head of the forces." (Philip)

"So you brothers worked hard at pillaging, huh?" (Wendelin)

"You are quite blunt, Earl Baumeister." (Christoph)

Christoph's eyes slanted upwards.

Considering the past connection between me and these brothers, it's unlikely that they will be delighted to reunite with me in the far distant territory of the empire.

No matter how low he fell, Philip is still an appointed Knight. And I don't think that Christoph wants to abase himself in front of me either.

"We joined the campaign on the order of Minister Edgar. I guess it was for the sake of babysitting the stupid Marquis Läger." (Philip)

Which reminds, there's something I heard from Minister Edgar before.

He said that Philip is excellent as soldier.

The conditions are harsh, but if he does it skilfully and his achievements are big, it's also possible for him to rise in peerage.

Even his little brother Christoph joined the campaign as military bureaucrat to obtain achievements.

"With the circumstances being like this, we were suddenly considered a burden by Marquis Läger."

"I dare say that Marquis Läger is quite incompetent. Once he saw our personal history, he probably felt very relieved for us to be below him."

Telling them 『You incompetent brothers who lost your family and territory protect the troop headquarters!』, he ordered them to standby at the headquarters in the rear while leading 500 soldiers of the royal army.

There was no other way but to call it irony that they were able to defend against Duke Nürnberg's night raid exactly because they were in the rear.

"So, what about Marquis Läger?" (Wendelin)

"He was apparently killed by Duke Nürnberg himself. The soldiers that ran away said so." (Philip)

The mounted Duke Nürnberg apparently let the Marquis' head fly into the sky with a flash of his own sword.

With the death of the supreme commander, the expeditionary force plunged into chaos.

Moreover the other three groups of nobles that split their forces to work hard at plundering became a target for thorough elimination.

"We escaped north while picking up the survivors of the defeated army." (Philip)

The southern ropeway was something crude that was built as temporary solution. It ended up getting destroyed by Duke Nürnberg right away.

Since it's easy to estimate their escape route, the officers and men, who escaped to the ropeway, should have either been killed or taken prisoner, Philip explained.

"Why did you escape north?" (Wendelin)

"That's because we were aware of the current state of the civil war in the empire. We wondered whether we would be able to somehow join up with the powers opposing the rebelling forces that are controlling the central government." (Phillp)

"What about the move of setting up a ropeway somewhere along the Gigantic Crevice once again and use that to escape?" (Wendelin)

"Who will affix the rope?" (Philip)

The rope of the ropeway that was affixed when they invaded into imperial territory in the beginning was apparently affixed by a valuable spy who cooperated with them.

But, the remnants of the defeated army on the empire's side have no means to affix a rope on the kingdom's side.

Even if they tried to ask someone on the other side by making a racket, there's no one there. And, if they were noisy, the remnants would only notify the local residents of their existence.

"Huh? So crossing the 1500 kilometers to the north was an unexpectedly good call?" (Philip)

"I guess it worked out because communication through magic and magic tools was obstructed." (Wendelin)

Philip, alongside Christoph, made the troops go north partly on instinct.

Picking up the remnants of the royal army along the way, they occasionally crushed small-scaled search parties and search parties led by local nobles.

Since the magicians belonging to the royal army carried food with them in their magic bags, they advanced on unpopular mountain roads as much as possible while stingily rationing out their food.

Discarding their armours and shields along the way since they bore the crest of the kingdom, they kidnapped local residents they found and had them act as guides when they lost their way.

It was a pity for the residents, but apparently they released them once their guidance ended after passing them a gold coin more or less.

"We were saved from troubles thanks to the jamming of communication magic, you know? Without that, we would have been captured or annihilated on the way." (Philip)

Looking at the slow movements of the rebel army, the rebels themselves apparently suffer from the jamming, too.

"Well then, I wonder what we should do about you?" (Wendelin)

"Oi, what's that about, Earl Baumeister?" (Christoph)

It was a reunion on the distant, isolated imperial soil, but the other side was someone who has a past history with me. From the standpoint of the soldiers and nobles of the liberation army, there's no reason to welcome someone like the remnants of an enemy army, which invaded their own country under the cover of the civil war's turmoil, warmly.

To begin with, they are no allies. Although they are not directly attacking the liberation army, they likely harbour the sentiment to execute them on the spot since they are aggressors no matter how you look at them.

"Even though our war is with the rebel army, you guys are still invaders." (Wendelin)

If we provided a timely help to them, there's the possibility that the nobles and soldiers would even resent us for doing so.

Currently we are having them eat a meal after putting them into baths, but there were many among the nobles and soldiers of the liberation army that are looking at them with cold eyes.

"But aren't you and the other people of the kingdom as well, Earl Baumeister?"

Even so, although we were treated as mercenaries, we achieved distinguished war merits while belonging to the liberation army.

Having received a honorary peerage as well, we are getting accepted on the surface at least.

"You guys' treatment is troublesome." (Wendelin)

"You don't mean to say that you intend to abandon us?" (Christoph)

"It's troublesome because I can't do that...." (Wendelin)

If I did that, it would then turn into an issue when I returned to the kingdom.

Even though they are people I don't like, I have to shelter them somehow.

"Can I have you follow me once you finish your meal?" (Wendelin)

"To a meeting with Her Excellency Duchess Philip?" (Christoph)

"Correct. Therese-sama's judgement will decide your treatment." (Wendelin)

After I caught Doushi, who was hanging around nearby, we headed to Therese while taking the brothers along.

If you ask why Doushi was there; that's because this person, even though he may appear to be like this, is a highly celebrated person in the kingdom.

He's treated as mercenary currently since his high social standing would be inopportune, but it's odd that there's no feeling of him being out of place even when he normally joins in on the construction of the encampment or participates in the training together with the soldiers of the liberation army.

『As for magicians, they have pretty much an image of being intellectuals, but Doushi is an extreme opposite of that, I guess. In spite of his ability being top-notch on the continent.』 (Burkhart)

This was Burkhart-san's impression of Doushi.

"Oh! Isn't that Earl Baumeister and the former Browig brothers who have fallen after getting tattered and defeated?" (Armstrong)

The minute Doushi spots the brothers, he unleashes a comment towards them I wouldn't directly hurl at them.

"Doushi, you don't go easy on them, do you?" (Wendelin)

"I think there's no point even if I beautify my words. It's the truth after all." (Armstrong)

Looking at it objectively, Doushi has a deep loyalty towards His Majesty.

For his words towards the brothers to be this bitter can probably be accredited to the fact of them sabotaging the kingdom.

"Is it alright for us to not head to Duchess Philip-sama?" (Christoph)

Apparently they couldn't say anything, even if they tried to talk back, since it's the truth. Christoph uged us on to quickly go to Therese's location while having cramps on his face.

"I suppose that's true as well. Let's hurry up then." (Wendelin)

* * *

Once the four of us visit Therese, she greets the two with a smile while already being aware of the circumstances.

"It looks like thee suffered various difficulties. However, to escape northwards was a bold idea, wasn't it?" (Therese)

"Since magic airships don't work in the northern part of the kingdom either, a simple ropeway is indispensable for crossing the Gigantic Crevice." (Philip)

However, you can't set that up easily owed to the width of the Gigantic Crevice.

The one that was used for the overlooked smuggling was cut by the rebel army. Even the one that was set up with troubles by Philip and the others cooperating with a spy staying in the empire has been cut a while ago.

"At the time of escaping we were around 2.000. It would have been impossible to fix the ropeway while escaping the enemy army's search and then return with everyone by crossing the ropeway after that." (Philip)

They apparently considered capitulation and honourable death as well, but they wanted to struggle to the bitter end if they had to die anyway.

"There was only little information about the empire's civil war we could procure on the kingdom's side, but we heard that there's a power opposing the rebel army in the north." (Philip)

They might be able to fight after getting accepted once they link up with that power. If that's no good, they would all together choose a honourable death then. It seems that they kept going north with a do-or-die spirit.

"Philip-dono is.... mine and Philip-dono's name are the same. Even if there's a difference between thy family name and mine first name. However, thee seem to be an excellent commander." (Therese)

Therese praised the ability of Philip as commander who broke through 1.500 kilometers of enemy territory while leading 1567 soldiers.

Certainly, that's not something anyone is able to accomplish, I think.

"Considering that, it was a terrible downfall drama though." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin, thou are acrimonious, aren't thou?" (Therese)

"I'm the victim after all." (Wendelin)

"A huge territory isn't something that can be easily controlled completely by a novice feudal lord and the next feudal lord. Philip-dono and Christoph-dono failed miserably concerning the results, but even for me that possibility was bound to exist. They have already received their punishment. This time they drew quite the short stick. Wendelin, don't tease them too much." (Therese)

An organization that gathers people is really complicated.

An organization that's pulled by a superior leader, who takes the initiative, will be fine at such time, but once that leader vanishes, it sometimes happens that those organizations fall apart immediately.

On the other hand, a leader, who advances things while regulating the opinions in the surroundings, won't be able to make important decisions and there will be times when they fail as well. Occasionally they will end up being half-assed even as they get accomplishments.

It was necessary to sometimes respect the opinions of the surroundings in order to prevent an organization's collapse.

Even so, since there are also patterns where organizations continue without falling into chaos when replacing their leader, one can't say which of them is correct.

In Therese's eyes it seems to be possible to have these brothers as allies as they are victims who failed after getting dragged along by the huge organization called Margrave Browig household.

"Haa...." (Wendelin)

"There's no guarantee that thy children or grandchildren won't do the same." (Therese)

"That will be their own responsibility, thus, if they don't have the ability, many people will be happy by them not becoming feudal lords." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin, thou are as bitter as ever. Well, past relations don't matter. There's the issue of treatment towards Philip-dono and the others. For his social standing to be a soldier of the kingdom is unlucky." (Therese)

Even though it's a civil war of the empire, soldiers of the kingdom will participate.

Moreover, since it will only be on the side of the liberation army, it will get harsh if 『The liberation army has betrayed the country to Helmut Kingdom!』 by the rebel army.

"I will place the complete royal army group under Wendelin's command and they will be treated as mercenaries." (Therese)

"I'm inexperienced in the command of armies...." (Wendelin)

It shouldn't be possible for the inexperienced me to suddenly command more than 1500 soldiers.

"Philip-dono exists for that sake. Leave it to him. I will be troubled if I can't have thou stay at my side, Wendelin." (Therese)

Once it's the decisive battle, both side's magicians will exchange magic spells.

As it seems that there are also cases where one side suddenly lost due to their supreme commander getting blown away in an instant, if unlucky, Therese apparently wants to place us at her side.

This is definitely not because she's anxious about only herself. The liberation will fall apart right away once Therese dies.

"Even Duke Nürnberg should place several high-ranking nobles at his side." (Therese)

"High-ranking magicians, eh...." (Wendelin)

"Blatson and those four brothers were the greatest authorities at the court, but the number of intermediate-levelled magicians still runs deep. There are also unaffiliated, excellent magicians. It's possible that he will scout them by paying a large amount of money." (Therese)

We will have to aim for mutually killing magicians again.

It can't be helped as it's for the sake of victory, but she's likely having a headache when considering the damage after the civil war since either are magicians of the empire.

Therese showed a bored expression.

"The former royal army will be placed in my central army. They will be very useful as they are highly experienced and since they number 1500 soldiers, but I think there's no one who wants to receive their commands among the people of the empire. On the contrary, they might try to use and waste them. If they are under thy command, there will probably be only few unnecessary quarrels." (Therese)

"Saying it like that is also called imposition though, I believe." (Wendelin)

"Thou will have an able commander and elite soldiers under thou. If thou are a noble, thou are to be capable of controlling them skilfully." (Therese)

"Understood."

I can't refuse anyway. In worst case it will be fine to use them as shield.

It's an awful way of thinking, but since it's a war, it's wrong if one doesn't protect their own body by themselves.

"Then, with this...." (Wendelin)

Doushi and me take our leave from Therese while taking the brothers along.

In the end it has been decided that I will also act as commander of the royal army which will become one corps of the central army.

Even while being treated as mercenary, I'm a staff officer and an imperial honorary noble. That resulted in me also leading the royal army's remnant soldiers who are likewise treated as mercenaries.

Entrusting the actual command to Philip, Christoph will be treated as second in command, staff officer and military official in charge of the miscellaneous matters related to the royal army.

There's no doubt that they are hating me, but I'd like them to deal with that somehow since they are adults.

"It's Earl Baumeister-sama!"

"Doushi-sama has come as well!"

"We can still fight!"

The royal army's soldier cheered loudly when they saw Doushi and me.

Even though they somehow managed to survive through the hardships, they were uneasy as this is enemy territory, but it's probably reassuring for them since famous allies are here with them.

However, the biggest problem was the bad state of the relationship of the two brothers who act as commanders together with me.

"By the way, about the matter of equipment...." (Christoph)

Given that the soldiers are anxious to make that public, Christoph has come to ask me, who is the top albeit only in name, politely.

"Armour, huh....?"

"If I remember correctly, you threw those away since they were equipment of the royal army, right?"

Doushi sighed after looking at the soldiers with their shabby appearances.

Of course they didn't let go of their weapons, but they had discarded their shields and armours that bore the crest of the kingdom. All of them wore worn-out ordinary clothes.

Since they didn't wash their clothes or changed them in this month, their outfits are tattered.

There were some who are wearing some armour parts, but they seem to be soldiers and knights of feudal armies.

As the imperial army doesn't know the crests of the kingdom's nobles anyway, they are keeping them equipped.

"Is it because they became shields with their low numbers?" (Armstrong)

Philip nods upon Doushi's question.

They weren't able to link up much with the escaping soldiers of the feudal armies. Their numbers are low as many of them died in action at the many occasions where they took the full brunt of the attacks since they have armours.

1500 armours and spare weapons are in dire need, Christoph explained.

Since that will cost money, he, who is in charge, is asking for my instructions.

"New items are impossible, but there are quite a few plundered items that were repaired. I will talk with the one in charge." (Wendelin)

"That will be a help." (Christoph)

There are many items that had the crest of the empire, but seeing as they can't introduce themselves as soldiers of the kingdom either way, it won't be a problem.

I wondered whether he would say that he doesn't want those items since they are possessions of those died in action, but it doesn't seem like he feels much about that.

Maybe it's a peculiar feeling of a Japanese.

Additionally, given that there are many who own nothing but the clothes on their back, underwear and clothes are required as well.

It was also necessary to secure tents for lodging.

The face of Christoph next to me became pale while calculating the expenses.

Somehow I understand his feelings.

But, a war is something that costs money anyway.

"It will cost this much at the very least." (Christoph)

"I'm sure." (Wendelin)

He had written down quite the high sum of money, but after confirming that there's no error in his calculation, I put my sign on it.

"If you show that to the one in charge of supplies, it should be prepared. In order for it to not turn into a nuisance for his other tasks, accept it after checking the sizes. If you tell him the sizes of the underwear and such, he should put them out from the inventory. If you need anything else, there's no other choice but to buy them from merchants since they are organizing a market, I guess." (Wendelin)

"We have some money on us, but there are many soldiers who are penniless." (Philip)

If it's a mission within their country, close to all soldiers carry at least their wallet, but since it was an invasion into enemy territory, Philip and Christoph didn't possess anything but a small sum of general funds.

"There were villages that sold food at agreeable prices during the escape, but it was a large sum of money for mediocre food." (Christoph)

There were also the remunerations to the guides, so it doesn't look like they have overly much money left now.

"I will provide two gold coins per person to cover the costs for the equipment and other necessities. Keep a moderate level at letting some steam off and make sure to get their appearance in order so that I won't feel embarrassed at the time of the decisive battle." (Wendelin)

"Understood." (Christoph)

"The merchants will accept gold coins from the kingdom." (Wendelin)

As the gold content and weight is equal as in accordance with the treaty, we normally did our shopping with the kingdom's currency as well.

I pass the the share of money for the number of people to Christoph.

To the brothers I handed lots of gold coins for different items.

"Earl Baumeister, don't spend money again." (Armstrong)

"Therese is stingy after all, you know?" (Wendelin)

The biggest weak point of the liberation army is its constant lack of money.

All the participating nobles are taking part in the war by covering their expenses and the rewards will be paid after the victory.

Since the supreme commander Therese isn't the empress yet, it's not like this method is wrong by any means.

However, it would be necessary to hand out rewards with a little extra after the war.

Even I have lent a considerable amount of money until now.

Probably that's why Therese occasionally aims to pay with her body.

"I'm sorry in various ways." (Philip)

"Sorry." (Christoph)

The two apologized although they likely hate me.

I think they weren't capable of doing something like this at the time when they were successor candidates of the Margrave Browig household, but they can lower their heads as excellent commanders.

Maybe the position and social status is more important that I'm thinking.

"But, you brothers are on unexpectedly good terms." (Wendelin)

"If you get ruined this far, you will end up tired from quarrelling as well...." (Philip)

"There are no retainers to instigate either, I guess." (Christoph)

If it had been only those two, that unproductive quarrel between brothers might not have happened.

Compared to that, they are normally doing their jobs without quarrelling now.

"As thanks, please lend me Erwin, Earl Baumeister. That guy should become a good commander." (Philip)

Philip suggested to teach his knowledge as commander, including his practical experience, to Eru by taking charge of him.

"Erwin doesn't have the ability to calmly lead a large army while remaining in the rear as leader. But he should be naturally able to get used to skilfully move military forces of around 10.000 soldiers while working up a sweat himself at the frontline and a bit in the rear. If it's guards for you, Earl Baumeister, we will send some over from our side." (Philip)

Philip revealed his plan of training Eru as commander apprentice and not as my guard.

I guess he's trying to repay his debt of gratitude to me in his own way.

"In that case, I think I shall request that of you." (Wendelin)

"I don't know how much of a commander he will become, but I will teach him as much as I can." (Philip)

Thus it has been decided that Eru would be attached to Philip and be taught in practical manner in the ways of commanding an army.

"It feels a bit sudden, but it's a good chance, right?" (Erwin)

Eru begins to study the commanding of an army together with Philip at his side.

Finishing the supply of new armours and weapons, the royal army that had its spirit restored and bought necessary items with the bonus they received, set up tents around our mansion and lodged in those.

Since they are a corps that treats me as its top, they settled with me in the centre.

"If their equipment is in order, they are elites, huh?" (Wendelin)

"If you exclude the part of remaining soldiers of feudal armies, they are soldiers of the royal army who usually kept training. I think that will make it easy for Erwin-san to move them, too." (Christoph)

Given that they can't call themselves royal army as is, they are currently treated as mercenary army under my command.

Once 1500 people work as one corps, it will eternally keep generating a large amount of documents from that moment onwards. Christoph dealt with those at a staggering speed.

"Eru, I can't leave Therese-dono's side. Please command the royal army group by aptly cooperating with Philip-dono." (Wendelin)

"I guess I will manage somehow since Philip-dono will be with me." (Erwin)

"Eru-san, I will help, too." (Haruka)

Haruka volunteered to assist Eru.

"She's a beautiful woman, isn't she? Is she your fiancée, Erwin?" (Philip)

"Yes, correct." (Erwin)

"I see. Doesn't she resemble Karla a bit?" (Philip)

"Oi...." (Wendelin)

"Nii-san, As one would expect, that's...." (Christoph)

Even though it would have been fine if he had introduced himself harmlessly here, Philip ends up prattling about something unnecessary.

Even Christoph warned his elder brother while frowning.

"Eru-san, Karla-san is?" (Haruka)

"Err...." (Erwin)

Eru clouded his words since he didn't want to tell her that she was the woman that rejected him after he fell in love with her before due to his obstinacy as man.

However, that behaviour aroused Haruka's suspicion in reverse.

"Eru-san, are there any other fiancées?" (Haruka)

"Of course not." (Erwin)

Even in this world there's a fixed number of jealous women, but there's a tendency to call it disgraceful if the wives of nobles show it publicly.

Even if other fiancées exist, she's only asking because of the issue of hierarchy and the conditions of her wedded life.

That's how it should be at least, but our faces turn pale due to the threatening, dark aura that can be felt behind Haruka for the first time.

If he provokes her, the current Eru won't be able to win against her katana.

And, that person also reacted due to the possibility of Eru being unfaithful.

"Erwin! You are neglecting my cute sister to have an affair!?" (Takeomi)

At the same time as the wind stirred like a gale, Takeomi-san drew his katana and pressed its tip against Eru's nape in an instant.

Even though he's an expert to begin with, he apparently becomes even stronger where his sister is concerned.

"I have heard that you are a single, but concealing the existence of lovers and fiancées besides our Haruka is dishonest, isn't it? Normally you mention that ahead of time, right!?" (Takeomi)

"Takeomi-san! You are losing your temper a bit too much!" (Erwin)

Carried away by his agitation, Takeomi-san ends up moving the katana tip that was pressed against Eru's neck. A little bit of blood trickled down from Eru's nape.

"Philip-dono." (Erwin)

"Nii-san, take responsibility by explaining...." (Christoph)

"I feel sorry for letting it slip, but what's wrong with this man?" (Philip)

Philip was surprised by Takeomi-san who suddenly drew his katana and pressed it against Eru's nape.

He's probably all the more surprised since he knew about Eru's skill in swordsmanship.

"Swordsman of Earl Mizuho Country, Takeomi Fujibayashi." (Takeomi)

"He's someone that will become my brother-in-law." (Erwin)

"I see. Somehow it looks complicated...." (Philip)

Given that, Philip explained Karla's circumstances after that, Takeomi-san finally withdrew his katana.

"So that's how it was, huh?" (Haruka)

Haruka showed a relieved expression, but all of us perceived it.

She's an unexpectedly jealous person which means that Eru won't be able to womanize or fool around anymore.

"My condolences." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san consoles Eru by placing his hand on Eru's shoulder.

"Burkhart-san, you haven't gone to such establishment once after getting married, right? There's the rumour that you are being dominated by your wife...." (Erwin)

"That's an irresponsible rumour, okay? Even married, I'm still a free man." (Burkhart)

"Even married you are serving as employee of the Margrave Breithilde household. As such you aren't that much of a free man." (Erwin)

"Don't talk about it as if it's somebody else's problem. Even you, Eru-boy, won't go on in the same manner as before once you marry, you know!?" (Burkhart)

For some reason the two started a stupid quarrel, but I think they should rather consider their surroundings a bit more while making such statements.

Once I casually looked at Haruka, the threatening, dark aura returned behind her.

"Eru-san, are you saying that you are frequently going to such establishments?" (Haruka)

"No. There's no way for that to be true." (Erwin)

He denied it frantically, but it looks like Haruka couldn't believe him.

"Eru-san, we will become a married couple. To hide secrets from each other isn't agreeable." (Haruka)

"Excuse me! No I definitely don't go there! I'm different from Burkhart-san!" (Erwin)

"I don't go either!" (Burkhart)

At the same time as saying that, Haruka forces him to spill the beans that there was something.

No one could speak up due to Eru's overwhelming pitifulness.

Only Burkhart-san insisted on his innocence, but people apparently change once they marry.

If it was during his time as bachelor, he would have calmly told stories about how he went to play in the red-light district.

"I got completely dragged into the quarrel. Philip-dono, you are cruel, you know? Just because you were dropped and chased away by your younger sister." (Erwin)

Karla cooperated on all fronts by maneuvering to ruin her elder brothers for the sake of gaining her own freedom.

Probably she's resented by those two due to that.

"Earl Baumeister, nii-san doesn't know, but I don't bear a grudge towards Karla anymore." (Christoph)

At first he apparently considered her as ungrateful and terrible sister, but once he fell into a position that resembled that of Karla, he grasped Karla's suffering well.

"It's because she was used while not receiving any favours from the Browig family. I suppose that even I used her. Using her quick wits for nothing but the chance to crush us, she's now gratefully accepting a modest life without any complaints. That means our downfall was karma." (Christoph)

It appears that he received a letter recently.

"It looks like she will live out her life as wife of an archery instructor of the Margrave Holmer household. She said that she felt regretful for setting up various schemes for that sake. Even regarding this aspect, we can't say anything since it's our incompetence to be blamed." (Christoph)

"Christoph, even I don't have any particular intention to say this or that against Karla anymore. But, rather than that, I think that I will face forward in the direction of receiving a reward by obtaining achievements here." (Philip)

"Though the matter of that reward led to me being mucked about by my fiancée thanks to you, Philip-dono...." (Erwin)

"Earl Baumeister, there's nothing to worry." (Philip)

"How come?" (Wendelin)

"A good commander is also excellent even if led by others. Even Erwin will be immediately able to become a man that is skilfully led by his wife." (Philip)

"I feel like that's a very high-handed pet theory...." (Wendelin)

There were strange troubles, but the royal army got their necessities of life arranged and started training from the next day.

* * *

As practice, Eru has been entrusted with a unit of 100 soldiers, which apparently puts him into distress due to the unfamiliar task.

"This time it will be fine with you getting a touch for it." (Philip)

"This time?" (Erwin)

"Correct. I believe there's no time. It's uncertain whether the conclusion will take place this month, but the decisive battle is close." (Philip)

While watching the unit that he's commanding, Philip estimated that the decisive battle with Duke Nürnberg will be soon.

"He should be finishing the arrest and killing of the royal army's survivors. Therefore, it's not that far away anymore." (Philip)

Three days after Philip prophesied that, a huge rebel army that seemed to blanket the Great Sorbid Wastelands showed up, just as he had predicted.

For the first time after the coup d'etat, the two supreme commanders will directly clash against each other.

Chapter 93: Why does the enemy’s boss want to talk with our side before the decisive battle? And, Wendelin’s worst pinch

"The time for the decisive battle is truly imminent." (Therese)

Therese looked down at the rebel army led by Duke Nürnberg visible below from atop the field encampment and the further raised and expanded wall.

Just when we accepted the remnants of the escaped Helmut royal army, and finished their rearrangement as well as equipment supply, we were able to confirm the gradual ammassing of the rebel army.

"Around how many people do they have?" (Wendelin)

"Let's see. I guess it's around 150.000." (Philip)

Philip, who led the royal army's group, answered my question.

Being a excellent tactical commander despite blundering at the inheritance dispute, he accurately saw through the military prowess of the rebel army.

"That's a lot, isn't it....?" (Wendelin)

"I think the group at the front are sacrificial pawns." (Philip)

"Eh?" (Erwin)

"Just call them as being in charge of losses. It's something that often happened in past wars as well. Don't mind it." (Philip)

"In charge of losses, you say...." (Ina)

Due to Philip's remark, Eru and Ina's group, besides me, apparently can't hide their discomfort.

"Duke Nürnberg wants to keep the losses of his soldiers low. At the same time, he wants to lawfully get rid of or exhaust the group that will become a hindrance to his rule of the empire in battle." (Philip)

"Certainly, the equipment and skill of the group at the frontline is second rate. I guess it's Viscount Foot. If thou consider it that he will get removed sooner or later since his relationship with Duke Nürnberg is really bad, he will be crushed after using him as vanguard, no? It's a tough world." (Therese)

While saying that, Therese brings the telescope, which hung around her neck, in front of me.

My and Therese's faces stuck together and her nice scent tickled my nose, but I tried to not pay any attention to that and observed the vanguard of the enemy army.

"The files of the troops are a mess, aren't they? Is there a group of elitish soldiers as well?"

"It's likely the nobles with dodgy loyalty and the folks who were deemed unnecessary by Duke Nürnberg, right? That personage probably wants to advance everything in a logical manner."

Mobilizing me and other magicians as well as a great number of soldiers, a large-scaled field encampment was completed in the Great Sorbid Wastelands.

For the sake of defending against the rebel army that's marching north, a large and long wall, which even rivals large scaled castle walls using clay and rock, was finished.

Palings against horses have been erected all over in front of the wall and countless holes have been dug out as well.

No matter how much the liberation army struggles, it won't be able to gather more soldiers than the rebel army.

Accordingly, Therese opted for a strategy of chipping away the enemy army's forces with a defence battle in the Great Sorbid Wastelands.

It's already approximately five months since the rebellion started.

The Great Sorbid Wastelands has developed into a big military base of the liberation army.

Therese was busily working at commanding the change into a military base, controlling the nobles and governments in the rear in preparation for a protracted war and maintaining the liberation army's organization and its supply structure.

Since I was assigned to the post of staff officer, I have been helping out with the processing of the documents together with Ina and Elise for some reason.

Katharina helped in the construction of the field encampment and acted as assistant of Burkhart-san who was teaching the other magicians.

Luise and Wilma were assistants for the combat training.

Eru has been taking lessons in the commanding of an army under Philip.

Also, he trained his katana techniques together with Haruka.

Which reminds me, I wonder what has Doushi been normally doing?

For some reason he worked hard at the reclamation and construction of the field encampment, and went hunting in nearby places.

Takeomi-san has been devoting himself to his guard role by staying at my side.

Occasionally, when he had time to spare, he looked at Eru and Haruka with looks and expressions full of anger, but neither of them minded at all.

They created a world for just the two of them.

『Haruka is a child that often accompanied me and onii-sama as a child....』 (Takeomi)

『Even that child will become an adult sooner or later, right?』 (Burkhart)

『I won't approve that—!!』 (Takeomi)

There were also situations where Takeomi ended up running away while crying after being teased by Burkhart-san during his reminiscent talk.

It's probably Burkhart-san telling him to finally grow up, but I don't think that you can cure a siscon that easily.

『My guard.... It's fine since I'm currently handling documents, but....』 (Wendelin)

Even after Takeomi-san ran away, I processed documents calmly.

There's Ina next to me, too. I think that it's the end of the liberation army if an assassin is capable of appearing in Therese's office.

『Earl-sama, you are doing such a job before I even realized, don't you?』 (Burkhart)

『It's because I can handle it somehow, I guess? How about it, do you want to help as well, Burkhart-san?』 (Wendelin)

『I'm busy with coaching the magicians.』 (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san taught magic to young magicians even though they were from the empire.

Since it's only for a short period, their mana won't grow that much, but there was no one more superior in magic accuracy and mana efficiency than Burkhart-san.

In reality, such a task probably belonged to Bladdson-san, but he had been murdered hideously.

That's why Burkhart-san took over this job resulting in the number of his pupils once again growing on the distant imperial soil.

『Earl-sama, by now you are already Therese-sama's retainer, aren't you?』 (Burkhart)

『Though I still wonder whether that's fine.』 (Wendelin)

I got incorporated into the liberation army despite being a foreign noble, but it doesn't seem to be an issue since I received the peerage of imperial, honorary Earl.

Also, this was the biggest surprise (?).

『Honorary Earl Baumeister has deeds of arms. If you want to relieve him of that position, you just have to raise deeds of arms in the next battle.』 (Therese)

With Therese saying this, she apparently eliminated the meddling by the other nobles.

However, I'd like her to stop agitating them too much.

It's related to the improvement of the morale, but if things don't go well, it's very likely that it will become a primary factor for losing if they get deceived by Duke Nürnberg's schemes.

『It's an era where war didn't exist for a long time, but for a noble there's nothing as valuable as deeds of arms.』 (Therese)

It's as Therese says. Thanks to that I increased my power on the surface.

However, I wonder whether it's really fine to hold two peerages without getting in contact with His Majesty?

There's no precedent and the bureaucratic nobles will likely kick up a fuss.

『Even if you worry about it, it can't be helped. For now we have no other choice but to win.』 (Armstrong)

Even so, I was grateful that Doushi is nearby.

It's because if he's able to explain things to His Majesty later, he will likely describe the circumstances correctly.

Of course we can also expect a lot from him even as war potential.

『True, we now have no other option but to just do that.』

『It's a time for war. You have to shake off unnecessary dwelling and simply focus on striking down the enemy in front of you.』 (Armstrong)

Doushi stared at the rebel army with a sharp glint in his eyes. It was as if he's daunting the entire enemy army.

Conversations like these took place as well, but currently I'm watching the battle formation of the approaching rebel army next to Therese.

While having our faces close to each other due to the single binoculars,

"Is it almost the entire force?"

"As expected, it's close to the limit at this point in time, I think."

I feel like Elise mood has unmistakably taken a nosedive, but currently it falls under war preparation.

Thinking that I will cater to her mood later, I averted my look from the rebel army.

It's definitely not because Elise was scary.

"They took their time with the cleaning up of the royal army that had invaded and laying the groundwork around the imperial capital. We completed this field encampment during that time. Taking this place will likely cost them dearly. Since he likely wants to avoid losses among his own soldiers, it's a given that the guys at the frontline will be wasted after using them." (Therese)

Therese is confident after seeing the group at the front she could confirm as nobles from their faces.

That means, just as Philip said, the group at the front is a disposable unit.

That's why there will be no problems with their equipment being bad and their training being insufficient.

"It's probably feasible for it to be an annihilation and repulse of the enemy, but...." (Wendelin)

"Yes, that's right. It will exhaust our army, too." (Therese)

Losses will come up and fatigue will also accumulate.

We will likely waste a large amount of arrows, too.

At the moment we got exhausted Duke Nürnberg would be able to attack us with his favourite elites causing the risk of the field encampment falling.

"It's a cruel plan, but it's very effective, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

"There's no way to prevent it either." (Therese)

Regarding the unneeded nobles and soldiers as nothing but consumable goods can be called as logical thinking at a frightening level.

However, since he and his staff won't be among those victims, he might not feel overly much mental anguish over it.

"Get ready for interception!"

At the same time of conveying Therese's order to our entire army, the rebel army.... didn't start moving.

That's because three knights approached our side while hoisting a white flag, despite their army being in a formation ready for battle.

"Where is Duchess Philip-sama!?"

"I'm here!" (Therese)

The knights hoisting the white flag were military envoys.

They called out to Therese and she answered them.

Despite the opponent being a rebel army, that was etiquette.

"Thee came to ask for our surrender?" (Therese)

"If possible, we hope for that and we have a statement of His Majesty."

"Humph! A fake emperor that stole the country with a rebellion? Duke Nürnberg-dono, a disappointing man who's more intolerant than expected." (Therese)

The knights didn't ask or say anything towards Therese's reply that dripped with sarcasm.

"In that case, the rest will follow after we bring it to an end with a battle."

"I guess that person works swiftly. If possible I'd like to avoid losses though."

"His Majesty thinks the same. In that case, matters change...."

The military envoys return to their own army's position after proposing something unexpected to Therese.

"Dining together, what is he planning?" (Therese)

The condition presented to Therese by the military envoy was to hold a dinner between the leaders before the battle.

I wonder just what the hell will be achieved by doing something like that?

Is this a flag that often occurs in such kind of stories where we are supposed to think 『The enemy has their own circumstances as well, so they aren't really hateable either, right?』 after actually trying to talk and listening to the explanation of the enemy boss?

Or more precisely, something like that is unnecessary this late in the game.

In my eyes I believe that I'd like someone like Duke Nürnberg to perish on his own accord if he gets defeated.

"If you consider it normally, it's a case where you have to be careful of deliberate murder, right?" (Armstrong)

Everyone including me revealed an expression full of surprise due to Doushi having a decent opinion for a change.

"Well, even I can come up with something to that extent!" (Armstrong)

"But you know, it will be fine with our side preparing the venue and the meal, right?" (Burkhart)

Since Burkhart-san was next to Therese as well, he has heard the conditions regarding the dinner of military envoys.

For both sides it was up to three people including the respective leaders.

The location was right at the half point that can be watched by both armies.

Moreover, we were told that it's fine for our side to prepare the dishes.

Even though there's also the possibility of us putting poison into it, they still don't mind.

"Does he want to show his fortitude to the rebel army's soldiers?"

"However, it's surely effective."

In this time's rebellion play, there was also the means of us killing him with magic in the worst case.

However, that method was actually prohibited by Therese.

"Nobles are beings with high pride. No matter how much they might be rebellious elements, the rumours would get worse if you get rid of him with such method. It not unlikely for that to influence the reign after this." (Therese)

"Even though Duke Nürnberg didn't lose to Duchess Philip in ability, his life was put to an end after getting killed in the middle of realizing his will. Duchess Philip is expected to be the legitimate winner, but under her government the empire keeps deteriorating. Therefore, this me, who succeeded the will of the hero Duke Nürnberg, will take over! or something like that?"

That means it will be easy to use the existence of Duke Nürnberg, who was murdered premeditatedly, for the next guy to cause a rebellion.

"If he's turned into a tool of worship, it will become a nuisance in the distant future. Regarding it on short-term, there will be many victims, but the way of thoroughly and completely crushing them will nip the buds of the next rebellion and that might eventually result in less losses in long term." (Therese)

There was the possibility that survivors, who can't agree with the settlement, and other nobles would use him as a banner for a rebellion.

There's also the worry that the group that supported Duke Nürnberg would join up with other dissidenting elements to hinder the rule of Therese.

"It's necessary to establish the fact that Duke Nürnberg died after getting defeated in battle, no matter through which eyes it's seen. At this late hour there's no leeway to talk it over, but I guess we will be doubted as being intolerant, if we don't accept. Unexpectedly, I think he might have hoped that our side would turn him down." (Therese)

She's saying that he might have had the intention to advertise Therese's cowardly behaviour to both sides.

"I have decided to accept it. Now then, it will become an outdoor lunch or dinner, but...." (Therese)

Therese sends a messenger to High Earl Mizuho who has set up his army in the centre just like her.

"If we use the local cuisine of the Philip Dukedom or the Nürnberg Dukedom, it will become unfair. As such I have decided to have them prepare Mizuho cooking." (Therese)

A few minutes later High Earl Mizuho showed up and accepted Therese's request.

"Therese-dono, I will take you up on it if you request it, but will Duke Nürnberg eat something like the Mizuho cooking?" (Mizuho)

High Earl Mizuho ordered his retainers at once and they began to put up the tent for the dinner at the halfway point between the two armies.

Furthermore, transferring even such things as magic tools for cooking, the cooks that are employed by the Mizuho household, start their work.

It seems they are preparing something similar to traditional Japanese cuisine that's brought in courses, but it looks like High Earl Mizuho's worry is about whether Duke Nürnberg, who is famous for hating the Mizuho people, will eat the Mizuho cuisine.

"If he doesn't eat it despite proposing a dinner meeting by himself for the sake of showing off his bravery, it will be fine to publicly announce that he actually couldn't eat anything due to succumbing to his own nervousness. Besides, as a matter of fact, that man is not very good with the dishes of his home town." (Therese)

"That's the first time I hear about it!" (Mizuho)

High Earl Mizuho showed an expression of surprise due to the personal information about Duke Nürnberg he learns of for the first time.

Certainly, usually he makes one imagine that he likes his home town and that he puts the highest priority on it.

"What kind of dishes are eaten in the Nürnberg Dukedom?"

"Ones with deep flavour." (Therese)

"The flavour is?"

"The seasoning is extreme. If you use plenty of seasoning, be it sweet or spicy, it produces the idea of a life in luxury, right? Until fish dishes spread, we were also ridiculed for being all about potatoes, bacon, sausages and sauerkraut." (Therese)

"A feudal lord that hates his own local cuisine...."

The prince-electors and their successors spend long time staying in the imperial capital.

His hate towards the cooking of his home might have grown all the more thanks to that.

"It seems he himself likes dishes with bland taste. He's encouraging bland taste by saying 『Dishes with too strong flavouring are bad for one's health』 at home, but this is the only thing producing a bad reputation for him among the population of his fief." (Therese)

『Something like thin flavouring is for the poor』 and 『It's better to use plenty of seasoning』 mainly seems to be firmly rooted in the opinions of the elderly.

"Since Duke Nürnberg is like that, his compatibility with Mizuho dishes will probably be good."

A few hours after that, the setting up of the tent and the cooking preparations had safely come to an end.

"The highest grade of Mizuho cooking by the employed cooks, huh? How regrettable."

I think I'd like to eat it, but both sides can only bring two attendants.

It's unlikely that me, a foreign noble, gets chosen.

"Not being chosen is the correct answer because I think that I won't enjoy the taste." (Luise)

It's as Luise says.

Even if I had a meal with that Duke Nürnberg, I don't think that I would be able to enjoy the taste of the dishes satisfactorily.

"It's fine if you go to eat at a delicious restaurant once this war ends."

"That's true, I guess. I will eat my fill then."

"There are many restaurants I want to visit in Earl Mizuho Country."

Wilma, whose appearance of holding the prototype sniper rifle has become completely familiar, seems to look forward to a Mizuho restaurant tour.

A booklet called Earl Mizuho Country's National Restaurant Guide was tightly grasped in her hand.

I wonder just when did she obtain that?

"So, who will she choose as her attendants?"

"Let's see.... will you go Katharina?" (Wendelin)

"Before that, there's no way for me to be chosen." (Katharina)

Since it was a sudden proposal by the other side, Therese still hasn't announced her attendants.

However, there was no expectation for me, who is a foreign noble, to be chosen.

Katharina, who is my wife, will likely not become a candidate either.

"Well, there's also the move of knocking Duke Nürnberg out of his wits with your splendid manners, Katharina." (Wendelin)

"Wendelin-san, that's definitely not praise, is it? Such a position is not something you aim for through popularity, but...." (Katharina)

Katharina apparently remembered about me previously telling her that her etiquette is too exaggerated.

"As candidates, young Duke Baden and someone with the rank of Earl are appropriate, no?" (Ina)

I guess Ina's prediction can likely be described as mostly valid?

However, it seems that Elise's opinion was different.

"Dear, get ready to go out." (Elise)

"Me?" (Wendelin)

"Yes. I believe that you will definitely be chosen." (Elise)

"I wouldn't mind at least taking a look if Duke Nürnberg was a beautiful woman, but I have no interest in a guy, okay?" (Erwin)

"You are an old man in such matters, aren't you?" (Wendelin)

I end up being astonished by Eru, but since I have only once seen that Duke Nürnberg is a discerning, keen, handsome man, he's nothing more but an enemy for me.

In the end he's only causing troubles for others. If possible, I wish that Elise's prediction doesn't come true.

"Earl Baumeister-sama, Her Excellency Duchess Philip is calling for you."

"Elise's prediction was right on the mark, wasn't it....?" (Wendelin)

However, contrary to my hope, Elise's prediction proved to be right.

Being ordered to attend by Therese, I got stuck with going to see the face of Duke Nürnberg whom I don't want to see at all.

The option of refusing not existing is likely a remaining habit of my time as salaryman where it was wrong to not entertain the other party, no matter how much I might have hated it.

* * *

"It's been a while, Duke Nürnberg." (Therese)

"It pleases me above all to see you healthy, Duchess Philip." (Nürnberg)

"Although I was about to get killed by someone, it seems I had the luck to escape that pitiful fate, right? As such I have the pleasure to still be present in this world." (Therese)

"That's great. With you gone, the world might be lacking various appeals after all." (Nürnberg)

"To say that without shame." (Therese)

"No, not at all. This is my true opinion." (Nürnberg)

Duke Nürnberg and Therese exchanged their greetings at the halfway point between the two armies.

Both of them exchanged words filled with sarcasm, but both sides don't get angry and continue speaking while smiling.

I observed this give-and-take between these two, who were born to be high-ranking nobles, with the look of a petty bourgeois.

Despite thinking that it's a scene that might very well take place in a historical drama.

"Won't you participate in this as well, young Duke Baden-dono?" (Nürnberg)

"No, I'm fine...." (Baden)

With the recent defeat, young Duke Baden obediently returned to being a person who silently does his work as number 2 of the liberation army.

It might turn into amusing joke material if he perpetrated something again, but from our point of view, who have actually suffered damage, it would be intolerable.

I pray that he will continue with his current meekness.

Even he himself dislikes voluntarily dealing with Duke Nürnberg.

He only did a light greeting following the rules of courtesy.

"Shall we have our meal then?" (Nürnberg)

Given that the meeting needed preparation as well, it had become time for dinner.

A table and chairs have been placed inside the tent and flower arrangements and hanging scrolls have been put up as decorations, too.

It not being tatami-matted might be out of consideration for Duke Nürnberg.

Chopsticks, spoons and forks have been placed at every seat. Once all of us sit down on our seats, the Mizuho people in charge of waiting upon us carry in the first dish.

"How about we introduce each other's attendants for starters?" (Therese)

"That's true, I suppose. It's just as you say, Therese. Oops, excuse me...." (Nürnberg)

"Max, it might be best for us to use this way of calling, right?" (Therese)

"Let's go with that then? My attendants are my Junior Commander Zauken and my staff officer and magician Talrand." (Nürnberg)

Zauken looks to be around 50 years old. He's a man with a well-trained body and a characteristic scar running across his right cheek.

Talrand was around 30 years old and had no special characteristics.

He has a medium build and his face has no parts that would leave an impression.

He's a normal man you can find in any city.

"(Huh?)" (Wendelin)

Although he has no special characteristics, conversely the lack thereof makes me feel an excessive, bottomless fear.

Since Burkhart-san isn't here, I investigate his mana, but going by my estimation, he has slightly more than the previous Katharina.

I think that I'm quite capable of dealing with him, but his ability is clearly superior to that of those four brothers.

What scares me above all is that there were parts in this man I couldn't read no matter how much I observe him.

"It seems that Talrand is interested in Earl Baumeister. Thus I brought him along." (Nürnberg)

Talrand bowed to me while staying expressionless.

The bow doesn't make one feel any impoliteness at all, but it's not something that gives a good impression to the other party either.

"(I wonder what it is? This unpleasant feeling.... I see! This man is empty!)" (Wendelin)

Despite being a male magician that possesses quite the mana pool, he doesn't leave any impression with me for some reason.

I only sense eeriness from him.

Well I wonder what Therese feels in regards to Talrand?

Currently I can't ask her, but I'm really curious about it.

"I'm hungry. How about we start eating?" (Therese)

Upon Therese's signal, the young male soldiers in Mizuho uniform take over the the role of servers and the dishes are carried in.

As expected, the dishes seem to be similar to traditional Japanese cuisine.

On top of the table there was a menu with skillfully written characters on paper resembling Japanese paper.

Appetizer: Tofu, Abalone, Sweet Coltsfoot, Bean-curd lees.

Supper: Sea bream in tofu skin, cooked ink, hen-of-the-woods.

Different Flavours: Black tuna, squid, flounder, prawn, blood clam.

Medium-sized snacks: Common clam, mizuna, dipped garden eel, bamboo shoot with pepper stir-fry, stewed sardine, kelp with herring roe.

Flame-broiled: Mackerel pickled in sweet miso, Fuki flower buds.

Boiled dishes: Small turnip, fish liver and eggs in tea cloth, cabbage, taro cormel.

Pickled dishes: Halfbeak, red turnip, wood jellyfish.

Main dish: Matsutake rice.

Finishing supper: Red miso soup.

Pickled vegetables: bok choy, chopped vegetables pickled in salt with red shiso leaves.

Dessert: Soft sweet bean jelly, pear, powdered green tea.

"(It's a traditional Japanese course at a magnificent level....)"

It properly resembles the menu of the high-class traditional Japanese cuisine I was taken along to only once during my time as trading company member.

The sense of the season in the ingredients was all over the place, but that's probably because they can be kept in a fresh state once you put them into a magic bag.

That point is more advantageous than Japan. The dishes that came out in order were delicious as well.

"Your way of using the chopsticks is skillful, isn't it, Earl Baumeister?" (Nürnberg)

"Is that so?" (Wendelin)

Even though I planned to focus on the food and stay silent, I'm immediately addressed by Duke Nürnberg.

Since I, who's not a Mizuho person, handles the chopsticks skillfully, he might consider that as strange.

"I was a Mizuho person in my previous life, I'm pretty sure." (Wendelin)

In reality I was a Japanese whose customs and culture resembled theirs quite a bit, but there's definitely no way that I will tell him that.

Though, even if I told him, it's very unlikely for him to believe me.

"I see. Such retort exists as well, huh?" (Nürnberg)

"I think I just learned it quickly by chance." (Wendelin)

"Does that mean that alongside magic, you are also strong at learning the Mizuho culture, Earl Baumeister?" (Nürnberg)

"I don't have any redeeming qualities besides those." (Wendelin)

For some reason Duke Nürnberg frequently addresses me.

Once I wonder whether he and Therese will start the negotiations of the terms for surrendering, he talks with Therese occasionally, otherwise he concentrates on the food.

Young Duke Baden focuses on the dinner as well. Zauken of the other party didn't know what to do with the dishes that were presented to him.

Given that the flavour capitalizes on the ingredients, it probably feels bland to a native person of Nürnberg Dukedom.

Talrand put the food into his mouth silently just like a machine.

"(This is a tactic, right?)" (Wendelin)

"Even if we told each other to surrender at this point in time, it's futile. That's why there's unexpectedly nothing to talk about once we actually meet, right? The Mizuho cooking feels very delicious to me. I'd like you to pardon Zauken as there's a difference in taste between the north and the south." (Nürnberg)

Duke Nürnberg seemed more straightforward than I expected.

After all he's at least capable of following up on his subordinate who seems to dislike the Mizuho dishes.

"However, the accumulation of such differences gives birth to friction between the various areas and territories. I have risen into action for the sake of reforming that." (Nürnberg)

"Wouldn't it have been fine if you had left it to nature and time?" (Therese)

"I'm impatient. It would be best to unify this continent into one." (Nürnberg)

Duke Nürnberg boldly state that he's going to unify this continent by himself.

His eloquent manner of speaking is very befitting of him.

There are likely many people who are supporting him after getting charmed by this.

Even without saying anything, someone with a superior appearance has an advantage.

"It's a magnificent dream, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

"If you become my retainer, it might unexpectedly work out quite easily." (Nürnberg)

I had expected it but, due to me getting headhunted by Duke Nürnberg, I see Therese's face warping for an instant.

"Hey, Max, that proposal is a grave breach of manners!" (Therese)

"I'm sorry, Therese, okay? I guess I leaked my wishes on the spur of a moment." (Nürnberg)

When Therese rebuked Duke Nürnberg's statement, he obediently apologised.

"Earl Baumeister is a man who is indispensable to me, you know?" (Therese)

"Not retainer, but man, huh? But I guess it won't turn out well." (Nürnberg)

"Earl Baumeister is a slightly shy person. He should come under my wing before long." (Therese)

"If you say so, Therese. You have always been bad at giving up." (Nürnberg)

"Max, you too, right?" (Therese)

Since he's a man who aims for the hegemony of the empire to the extent of even causing a rebellion, he seems to be bad at giving up just as Therese has said.

"Earl Baumeister, what do you think of me?" (Nürnberg)

"If it's about your military ability, I hear that you are set as authority of the imperial army." (Wendelin)

I can't come up with anything but this.

And there was also something like 『Thanks to you, there have already been a large amount of victims, but what do you think about that?』, but I locked this away in my chest.

"Even though you are young, your way of thinking is that of a cautious person, isn't it?" (Nürnberg)

"Really? Though I believe that the majority of the people of this world want to spend their lives normally. Although one might say that they have aspirations, it's at most at the level of succeeding in their respective social standing or being successful at business, right?" (Wendelin)

"I want to aim for the hegemony of the empire and afterwards, the unification of the continent. If I don't declare at least this much, it looks like it will be difficult even if I seize the empire's hegemony, don't you think? I will succeed in my social position as authority of the imperial army. You are a genius and as such you can think like that." (Nürnberg)

"Genius? Me?" (Wendelin)

Duke Nürnberg stated that I'm a genius.

There are parts where I can agree such as magic, but since I think that I'm normal in other matters, it doesn't actually feel like me being a genius at all.

"You are a genius in magic. That's why you can't understand my sentiments. Listen, what's the essential component to change the status quo? It's being bad at giving up." (Nürnberg)

"Giving up?" (Wendelin)

"A genius can live in society without any hardships. Therefore they don't desire something like a reformation of society. I'm bad at giving up. That's why I desire the empire's hegemony to the extent of causing a rebellion." (Nürnberg)

He continued to strive for victory in the emperor selection, but he missed it by one more step.

He says that's the reason why he occupied the imperial capital and went as far as causing a rebellion.

Duke Nürnberg talks about his own ideas.

"I don't think that I have to actually apologise to the victims so far. I face this battle with my back to the wall. If I win, I will obtain the empire's hegemony. If I lose, I will die unsightly as stupid rebel and will be criticised as fool after my death." (Nürnberg)

"I'd like thee to consider my situation a bit more." (Therese)

"If I lose, you will become empress, huh? I guess the empire's reign will be difficult." (Nürnberg)

"Is His Majesty still alive?" (Therese)

"I have kept him alive, but that man is mediocre. I'm sure he will just turn into a puppet even if you reinstate him after the rebellion. Therese, you won't have any other choice but to deal with him somehow." (Nürnberg)

Therese's and Duke Nürnberg's gazes clash.

Both of these two are thinking that they are suitable as next ruler if you choose only by ability.

"The person of us that wins will become the next emperor. Isn't that a wonderfully simple situation?" (Nürnberg)

"Humph! Thee are convinced of thy victory, Max. Otherwise thee wouldn't have held such a meeting." (Therese)

"Indeed, I'm confident. Therese, there are several excellent magicians in your ranks, right? But, our Talrand isn't a useless person either." (Nürnberg)

As expected of someone that was brought along to this dinner meeting. Talrand seems to be a magician of whom Duke Nürnberg expects a lot after all.

He hasn't uttered a single word. He's politely and quietly stuffing his mouth with the dishes.

There's no　『Delicious』 or 『Disgusting』 either.

Since he's simply eating the food in silence, I even forgot about his existence for a while.

"(Actually, on the contrary, that's weird....)"

I can't feel anything but a sense of discomfort due to his non-existent presence.

It deviates from the level of simply not standing out. I wonder whether a state like that isn't caused by some kind of magic talent.

However, there was no evidence of him using magic.

"Talrand is a slightly special magician, you know? Earl Baumeister, I'm confident in a future where you will lose to Talrand. You won't die if you surrender to me and I will promise you an appropriate treatment." (Nürnberg)

Around ten minutes after that, Duke Nürnberg went back after enjoying the dinner until the final powdered green tea.

We leave the cleaning up of the tent to High Earl Mizuho and depart on the way back, but since we couldn't use horses, we walked by foot.

Since Therese is incessantly talking at my side, young Duke Baden, who felt uncomfortable, returns to the field encampment first by running.

There are past circumstances between us, and so I didn't help him since it's not like we got a particularly good relationship.

* * *

"Wendelin, are thou worried about the magician called Talrand?" (Therese)

"I will set up countermeasure until tomorrow.... No, wait, I don't know the magic that man uses." (Wendelin)

"Was it alright for it to not develop into a night warfare?" (Therese)

Duke Nürnberg stated that the start of war would be early in the morning of the next day.

It's not because he's a particularly fair man who wishes a fair and square battle.

Even in the empire, units that can carry out an organized night attack are extremely limited in number.

He probably judged that it would be meaningless since it will only pointlessly increase the losses even if he sends out a night attack to pass through the fences and moats against horses that have been repeatedly set up in front of the field encampment's wall.

The unit capable of a night attack are the soldiers under the direct control of Duke Nürnberg after all.

"There's no choice but to deal with him, ad hoc. Rather than that, there's something important." (Therese)

"Something important?" (Wendelin)

Not understanding what she's talking about, I tilt my head to the side.

"I'm a sorrowful woman who will fight to the death with my acquaintance Max. It's only natural for a man to console me at this point, right?" (Therese)

"Were you that close to each other?" (Wendelin)

"We called each other with our first names, right? There were also several times in our childhood where we played together." (Therese)

She probably wants to tell me that they were childhood friends as they are close in age, too?

Considering all that, they didn't show such a behaviour in the beginning.

"These last few years Max always harboured such feelings. I guess it's only natural for us to grow estrange?" (Therese)

"Is that so?" (Wendelin)

I don't know whether it's the truth or not, but I gloss it over by throwing suitable responses into the conversation.

"For that reason I'm a misfortunate woman. Please comfort me." (Therese)

No sooner than saying that, Therese links her arm with mine and puts her face on my shoulder.

In addition, she does so in front of the field encampment's main gate.

Of course the soldiers atop the wall watched us with astonished expressions.

"Therese-dono...."

"I'm showing off the intimacy of the supreme commander and her staff officer before the decisive battle." (Therese)

While that might be true, I don't think this is the truth here.

Once I looked in the direction where I sensed blood thirst, I found Elise standing there while showing a cold expression.

"Elise is angry...." (Wendelin)

Elise rarely got angry over things, but most recently she's often mad at Therese.

Given that she's expressionless today, she's probably angry to the degree of forgetting her forced smile.

Next Elise gently placed her hands on the shoulders of Wilma and Luise.

Once she does, the two of them jumped off the wall that has a height exceeding five meters by making use of their marvellous physical abilities and ran up to my location.

"Welcome back, Vel." (Luise)

"Vel-sama, the food was delicious?" (Wilma)

They tear off Therese and place themselves at my sides.

"I'm back. Let's search for a restaurant that makes dishes that resemble the cooking that was served by Earl Mizuho Country this time?" (Wendelin)

"Yea, let's do that. Whoa, there were various dishes, eh?" (Luise)

"Looks high class." (Wilma)

Luise and Wilma looked together at the Japanese paper that listed today's menu.

"Excuse me! Don't thee have to say anything about them suddenly tearing me off?" (Therese)

"Therese-sama, how vulgar." (Luise)

"Not really. We only came to welcome Vel-sama." (Wilma)

The two calmly retort Therese's protest.

Since something like that happens often, even Therese's retainers already stopped say something like 『What disrespect!』

It's because they don't wish for Therese to cling to me.

"Vel, let's go sleep in preparation for tomorrow." (Luise)

"As expected, I think today's no good." (Wendelin)

"I know that. We will only sleep together." (Luise)

We will connect the beds of everyone and sleep normally.

Certainly that in itself was something I was looking forward to.

"I'd like to join thee as well." (Therese)

"The solitude of the supreme commander is a rule. It will be plenty enough with you sleeping alone." (Wilma)

"Wilma, your wicked tongue is getting better...." (Wendelin)

I pass through the opened main gate while listening to the quarrel of the three, but the eyes of my guard, Takeomi-san, had become tear-choked again.

It looks like it's about Haruka again.

"Takeomi-san?" (Wendelin)

"Uuh...." (Takeomi)

Eru, who waited with Haruka for me to come back, talked with her happily at a slightly separated place.

"High-class cuisine of Mizuho, huh? Just how much does it cost?" (Erwin)

"Let's see. If it's a restaurant like the ones master visits, it will be five shu for one course." (Haruka)

"I wonder, is it delicious?" (Erwin)

"It's famous for being delicious." (Haruka)

"In that case, let's go together next time?" (Erwin)

"But, it's expensive!" (Haruka)

"Isn't it fine from time to time? Since we are at war, we have to get a reward afterwards. Let's go to a nice place at least for our first date." (Erwin)

"Date.... first date.... I guess so. I'm looking forward to it." (Haruka)

Haruka happily replied to Eru's invitation for a date.

"Harukaaaa~~~!" (Takeomi)

Of course the siscon Takeomi-san raised a beast-like cry.

Naturally the soldiers present in the surroundings back off as if they had seen something scary.

"My younger sister is too adorable, right?" (Takeomi)

"That might be the case, but since I don't have a younger sister, I can't understand it well...." (Wendelin)

In my previous life I only had a younger brother and in this world I was the youngest child.

I couldn't deny the possibility of father's illegitimate children existing somewhere, but even if they do, there's no guarantee that there's a younger sister among them.

"Dear, welcome back." (Elise)

"I'm back, Elise." (Wendelin)

After that we decide to go back home with everyone and to sleep normally in preparation for tomorrow.

It's no good if I don't show my full power tomorrow, so I make sure to not have any exhaustion left.

That's because the figure of that eerie Talrand still popped up in my mind.

* * *

And then, on the next morning, the final battle between the two armies begins at last.

"Teacher, what was that dinner meeting about in the end?" (Katharina)

"Don't ask me.... I haven't taken part to begin with, so go and ask Earl-sama." (Burkhart)

"Wendelin-san said 『It was a last meeting between childhood friends who had grown estrange for a long time』." (Katharina)

"If Earl-sama said that, then it must be so. Even high-ranking people have various circumstances, right?" (Burkhart)

While Burkhart-san and Katharina indulged in an idle chat, the rebel army moved in a grand manner.

The next morning after the aforementioned dinner meeting, the advance guard all at once started a charge towards the field encampment.

"The rebel army's vanguard counts 40.000 according to estimation. I guess they plan to saturate our side's ability to intercept."

The troop headquarters of the central army has been transferred to atop the front gate. Therese elegantly gazes at the approaching advance guard of the rebel army.

Of course arrows and spells come flying, but they are blocked with a 『Magic Barrier』 by Burkhart-san and Katharina who are on standby for that sake.

The spells are only at the level of being fired by elementary magicians, as such both of them defended against those easily.

Since there's also Mizuho's army in the central army led by Therese, they immediately fire their magic guns and magic tool applied ballistae.

It was a weapon that still has problems in the department of cost and usage limit, but even so, it mowed down many soldiers that entered into hits firing range.

At the moment the enemy soldiers were stopped by the moats and fences, as well as the arrows and bullets coming flying.

The soldiers fall. The wounded are taken away to the rear whereas the casualties are abandoned just like that.

The small unit that went furthest ahead had been mostly annihilated, but the next batch was immediately thrown into the ring.

There are many victims, but one by one they are able to place boards across the moats and the fences are pulled down by horses.

Even though the rebel army's advance guard suffered great losses, they gradually approached the wall.

"I wonder how many we can kill until they take hold of the wall?" (Wendelin)

Philip, who takes charge of the royal army's group, gave Eru and me a simple explanation while the royal army to use their bows as well.

As usual he has a rude tone, but if you consider his past circumstances, it cannot be helped in some ways.

He is fulfilling his duty as commander and, even though it's for a short time, he was giving Eru a proper education.

"It's similar to wasting soldiers...." (Wendelin)

"That's actually not true." (Philip)

Philip doesn't seem to feel any doubt about Duke Nürnberg's strategy at all.

"The rebel army won't be able to attack the north if they don't take this field encampment no matter whether they send out the elites or the disposable troops first. In that case it's common to exhaust our side with the disposable troops first, right?" (Philip)

It's a dry analysis that doesn't regard the war potential as anything but numbers.

It might be necessary for a commander, but I can't go that far.

In other words, that means that I'm not cut out to be a soldier.

"Even if they don't attack from the front pointlessly, for example, by making a detour and doing a surprise attack or such....?" (Wendelin)

"Earl Baumeister, it's easy to say that, but something like a surprise attack isn't that simple to pull off." (Philip)

"Really?" (Wendelin)

"The majority of the northern lords other than those in this field encampment are affiliated with the liberation army. Even if they take a detour, it will get reported right away and they will likely suffer a counter attack instead, right? While we are at it, they will be easily caught in the search net of Duchess Philip and High Earl Mizuho." (Philip)

It doesn't seem to be as simple to change the war situation with a surprise attack like in historical military stories.

That's the reason why those, who succeeded in a surprise attack, are highly evaluated in history books.

"Then, why did you guys lose?" (Wendelin)

"Duke Nürnberg had an excellently advantageous position and Marquis Läger was incompetent to a frightening degree as soldier. Seeing that the main army got dissolved by a surprise attack, we had no other choice but to gather the remaining soldiers and to escape in order to keep the losses low." (Philip)

In such circumstances, Philip even went north and succeeded in running away to this place.

Even now his command style was a big deal. That means Minister Edgar didn't make a mistake in his character evaluation.

"Even though it would have been great if he had used that ability as a soldier in the previous dispute."

"No kidding."

"Nii-san, we wouldn't have lost in the dispute if you had gone out from the start. The dispute itself wouldn't have taken place to begin with." (Christoph)

Christoph, who is supporting the rear of the royal army's group, reveals in a whisper.

These two were probably crushed by their retainers and the maternal relatives they have employed, and thus ended up taking a wrong turn.

If they hadn't quarreled over the succession issue, that troop dispatch wouldn't have happened to begin with.

The act of pushing Karla onto me to raise money was quite constructive and didn't cost much money either after all.

"If we win in this, it might be possible to receive an appropriate peerage. Let's kill them to our best ability. We will be alright in regards to the stock of arrows for a while." (Christoph)

I have a problem with the sentiments in Christoph's way of talking, but the things he says are not wrong.

We have no other choice but to kill the soldiers of the rebel army.

"Earl Baumeister, it's fine for you to preserve your mana."

After around three hours, the enemy forces took hold of the walls.

Considering it's a unit of disposable troops, it felt like a hard fight, but the reason for that is simple.

There are commanding combat units in the rear. They made sure to be able to fire a large amount of arrows at any time.

While were are at it, Duke Nürnberg gathered the high-ranking magicians in the unit directly defending him.

It looks like they feel threatened that spells will come flying if they run away or turn traitor.

Also, it's likely that their families had been taken hostage.

"It's the height of fiendishness, right!?"

"Well, it's a valid move, isn't it?"

For Duke Nürnberg it will be a win as long as he can damage the liberation army that has little reserve soldiers even if his advance guard gets annihilated.

In addition, once they are gone, he can freely take their territories and peerages.

If he assigns those to his proteges, it will increase Duke Nürnberg's sovereignty.

Doushi and Burkhart-san, who understand that, seem tho consider it to not be funny in their minds despite having a carefree banter as usual.

Alongside Burkhart-san's agreement, Doushi tossed a huge boulder at the commanding combat forces.

The archers that were hit directly got crushed like bugs and died.

The commander, who definitely didn't expect the boulders to reach such a distance, tried to retreat, but he was killed by the next rock thrown by Doushi.

"It's irritating, but I guess we can't get rid of all the command groups."

It was only one command group that got crushed by the rock throwing, but it apparently succeeded in striking the rebel army with fear.

The attack momentum of the forces at the front line also fell.

"Umm, Burkhart-san." (Wendelin)

"Earl-sama, you have to still preserve your mana." (Burkhart)

Therese gracefully sits on a chair in the troop headquarters and raises the moral of our allies by urging the soldiers to fight more vigorously.

The arrows and spells that came flying were all blocked by the 『Magic Barrier』 of Burkhart-san and Katharina.

It's the strategy for those two to focus on this job in order to protect Therese without fail. In exchange, the magicians employed by the Duke Philip household were deployed to all units and strengthened the offence and defence with their magic.

"I wonder whether Elise is alright?" (Wendelin)

"There haven’t been that many injured people as of yet."

Elise, who is lacking in means of attacking, is this time also treating the soldiers in the rear.

Ina continues to hurl throwing spears. Luise also shoots rocks and stones that she had gathered around the area with a stringed slingshot.

Stones are an unexpectedly effective weapon in a war.

After strengthening their power with a bit of mana, she skillfully hits the faces of soldiers.

If she hits the face directly, her victims were either transported to the rear with a cracked forehead or died in worst case.

"Their offensive doesn't weaken readily, does it?" (Ina)

"They are really tenacious, aren't they?" (Luise)

The two of them seem to be bored with continuing the same old attacks.

"Found them." (Wilma)

Wilma continues to shoot magicians and officers with the prototype sniper rifle she was lent by High Earl Mizuho.

In the end this magic gun requires a lot of skill and talent to snipe from a long distance. At present it was only Wilma who could master it. Therefore only she made use of it.

She snipes one person after the other. Once she runs out of mana, she resupplies her mana with the magic gems she had prepared in advance.

The silent Wilma continues to snipe at the same level as a certain ○lgo 13.

"Wendelin-san, you are saving your mana?" (Katharina)

"There's one guy who will need my attention." (Wendelin)

It's the magician called Talrand whom I met at yesterday's dinner meeting.

He has slightly more mana than those four brothers, but for some reason I feel something eerie from him and my intuition's alarm bells are ringing.

Once I consulted with Burkhart-san and Doushi afterwards, both of them backed my opinion.

"It's wrong to make light of such intuition!" (Armstrong)

"I guess I share the same opinion as Doushi." (Burkhart)

Me staying on standby is something owed to the support of those two.

For a while the life and death struggle between the rebel army that tries to climb the wall and the liberation that tries to prevent that continues.

The loss ratio was overwhelmingly advantageous for the liberation army which is the defending side, but gradually the victims, who are pierced by spears and shot by arrows or spells, increase.

"I'm going to the front!" (Ina)

Ina went to the front and thrust down her spear at the soldiers who were climbing the walls in succession.

After continuing in such manner for a while, some kind of disturbance takes place on the rebel army's side.

At last that man started to shorten the distance to me while walking just like a ghost.

Talrand doesn't care about allies or enemies on this battlefield.

He's simply walking slowly towards the front gate where we are.

There was another ominous part about him.

Our guards don't fire arrows or spells at him for some reason.

"(There are only few people who are aware of Talrand?)" (Wendelin)

I release cold sweat due to his eeriness.

"Who's that?" (Wilma)

"Some weird guy has come!" (Luise)

Wilma snipes at him and Luise throws a big rock, but those get completely blocked by his 『Magic Barrier』.

As expected, he was an excellent magician.

"That Talrand-dono...."

With even our allies receding from him, he finally stood in front of the gate and spoke with a quiet voice.

"Earl Baumeister, I have come to kill you." (Talrand)

Even though it's a quiet murmur-like voice, it clearly reached my ears even on the battlefield that was overflowing with various sounds.

Since he was silent during the dinner meeting, it was the first time for me to hear Talrand's voice, but I can't feel anything special from it after all.

Because he's simply talking dispassionately, I end up feel the eeriness all the more.

"He's really ghastly." (Armstrong)

Even that Doushi appears to feel some indescribably eeriness.

"Earl-sama, will you accept his challenge?" (Burkhart)

"I will. If I have to fight him anyway, I will get through it as soon as possible." (Wendelin)

"I see. Be careful." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san didn't stop me.

He's probably thinking that the battle between me and Talrand is unavoidable.

"In that case, I will make sure to get rid of unnecessary nuisances!" (Armstrong)

I descend the wall with a ladder and square off against Talrand who stood before the front gate.

The rebel army had already deserted the front gate.

With Talrand being a big wig and as even the rebel army seems to be weirded off by him, no one approached us.

"It's a kind of ominous view, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

Only around the front gate both armies had stopped battling and were watching our duel.

Since the struggle for life and death is still continuing as before at other places, that difference was uncanny in any way.

If you ask why it turned into such a situation, it's probably because of the eeriness released by the man called Talrand.

There's no other adequate explanation for it.

"I'm here for the sake of preventing any hindrance to your one-on-one duel." (Armstrong)

Doushi descended the ladder together with me and got ready to deal with any disturbance by the rebel army's side behind me.

"Then, start!" (Armstrong)

Once I start to prepare deploying my magic, Talrand suddenly begins to talk with a voice that has no intonation or character.

"Even though I had mana since my time as child, my presence was thin for some reason." (Talrand)

Despite him having a simple monologue without talking to anyone in specific, it's eerie. I unintentionally end up hesitating to attack.

I ended up setting up my 『Magic Barrier』 in a hurry while wondering whether some kind of special magic will come flying at me.

"It's the same even after I became a high-ranking magician. There are only few people who called out to me to let me serve them. Those troublesome days were resolved on a certain day for some reason." (Talrand)

"What are you talking about?" (Wendelin)

"The thinness of my existence was the requirement to learn a special magic. The man called Talrand is nothing more than a mere body that can use that magic." (Talrand)

"Special magic?" (Wendelin)

"Indeed. My magic is a kind of 『Holy』 magic. 『Hero Summoning』. Being killed by past heroes, you will be finished off by that person, Earl Baumeister." (Talrand)

Talrand holds up both his hands towards the sky and immediately following that, a thunderbolt descend from the sky and directly hits Talrand's body.

I reflexively end up closing my eyes, but when I opened my eyes, the figure of Talrand had vanished from that place.

In exchange, there is a person standing there who really resembles an acquaintance of mine.

His body is covered by an armour of muscles across his large build. He wears a violet robe and knuckles are equipped on both his hands.

And, with the special traits of having a handlebar mustache and a hairstyle resembling a calyx of a pineapple, a person that was exactly like Doushi stood stock still there.

"Doushi!" (Wendelin)

I check behind me on impulse, but since Doushi stood there just as before, it's someone else.

"Mine name is Arhand Michael von Armstrong."

Even his voice resembles Doushi's voice quite well.

The only difference is that he doesn't hold a wand but has equipped knuckles on both his hands.

"It's ancestor-sama!?" (Armstrong)

"Ancestor-sama?" (Wendelin)

"Indeed. As a matter of fact, the founding Earl Armstrong was a magician!" (Armstrong)

It was the first time for me to hear that shocking truth.

"As heir of a poor Knight he was a magician by chance. Thanks to that he became an Earl." (Armstrong)

"All things considered, he resembles you quite a bit, doesn't he?" (Wendelin)

If he wore the same clothes, I wouldn't be able to tell them apart at all.

"The first generation was apparently a power fighter who exceeds me." (Armstrong)

"That's the worst compatibility with meee~~~!" (Wendelin)

Even so, I have to defeat him somehow.

Since the battle has already started, I will start with releasing several fireballs as feint.

However, the founding Earl Armstrong repels those with his fists by cladding them with a 『Magic Barrier』 and closes the distance in one go.

As he stood in front of me in the blinking of an eye, I received his powerful blow.

I defend against it by holding both hand in front of me and cladding them with multiple layers of 『Magic Barrier』 at once, but immediately following that, I felt a sharp pain on the back of my hand.

"His offensive ability is higher than that of Doushi!" (Wendelin)

The founding Earl Armstrong seems to be the type that specialises on magic close combat even more than Doushi.

After that I continuously receive a series of kicks and thrusts loaded with mana and each time the damage to my body accumulates.

With a rib apparently getting cracked due to a blow that was delivered into my abdomen, a sharp pain travelled through my stomach.

"Fortunately he seems to be bad with emission magic." (Wendelin)

It looks like the bones at the back of my hand were fissured during the first attack.

While healing both parts with healing magic, I consider my plans from now on.

"There's no other choice but to gain time for now." (Wendelin)

The founding Earl Armstrong's attacks continue in a barrage.

At first I received everything, but after a short while I got apparently used to his attack patterns.

Now that it has come to this, it seems to have been correct to receive Doushi's unreasonable training during my time in the royal capital.

For the sake of saving mana, I concentrate my 『Magic Barrier』, which I had spread above my entire body until then, on my arms changing it into a shield. I dodge the founding Earl Armstrong's attacks by freely using those as slanted armour.

"What controls raging streams are clear streams." (Wendelin)

"How cryptic." (Armstrong)

Ignoring the mutter of Doushi who is behind me, I continue to parry the enemy's attacks.

Since my eyes had already gotten used to them, I next attempted to launch a counterattack right after parrying an attack.

Dodging the the punch, I deliver a blow filled with mana into his defenseless abdomen.

"Gufuuh."

Due to the blow that concentrated the mana on one single point, the founding Earl Armstrong coughed up blood from his mouth.

It seems like I was able to damage his internal organs.

Next a kick from an overhead position approaches me, but after dodging this as well, I charge one leg with mana and make him trip up.

The founding Earl Armstrong ends up falling after having his balance disturbed.

I tried charging my foot with mana and nail it into his face, but this was barely avoided by him.

"Not bad." (Talrand)

"I guess he isn't overly powerful." (Wendelin)

I can't clearly declare it since I don't understand the special magic called 『Hero Summoning』 well, but I feel like this founding Earl Armstrong is weaker than the person himself.

His power and technique might be the same, but I feel like those don't measure up to the ability of the ones who mastered those.

Or, maybe his body isn't completely in synchronization?

"Ancestor-sama wasn't this weak." (Armstrong)

"Did I play around a bit too much? As expected, if it isn't a hero of the same line, I won't be able to display their power." (Talrand)

Talrand, who had the appearance of the founding Earl Armstrong, swiftly heals his wounds with healing magic and one again points both his hands towards the sky.

Once again a thunderbolt descends and once it vanishes, Talrand had transformed into another person.

"——Even though he's a similar magician, this man is probably close to a combat type, right? Well then, let's start, Vel?" (Talrand)

"No way...." (Wendelin)

When a new figure showed up from Talrand after the thunderbolt was dispelled, my time stopped.

It's because my heart was fiercely shaken by the person into whom he transformed.

Right, I haven't forgotten.

That person who taught me magic during my childhood, ten years ago.

The same figure as the late Alfred Reinford, my master, stood in front of me.

"Alfred!" (Armstrong)

"Al!" (Burkhart)

Due to his pupil suddenly appearing, Burkhart-san bent himself over the wall and shouted.

Even Doushi apparently can't hide his surprise due to the appearance of his close friend.

And, even I stood stock still on the spot.

"No.... it's just a fake that imitated his figure and appearance...." (Wendelin)

"It's different, Vel. 『Hero Summoning』 is a spell that combines people who died in the past with me, Talrand, who has a presence close to not existing. That's why I'm Talrand and at the same time Alfred." (Talrand)

The figure, appearance and voice were completely the same with master.

Moreover, Talrand delivers a new shock to me next.

"Vel, you have the bad habit of gathering a lot of mana in your dominant hand, don't you? You improved on that greatly, but you still need to put much more effort into it, okay?" (Talrand)

"No way...." (Wendelin)

That advice was something that master told me at the time when I trained with him.

I have been told the same thing by Burkhart-san as well, but being told the same words in the same manner up to this extent, I had no other choice but to accept that the person in front of me is my master for real.

"Well then, I wonder whether Vel, who is the pupil, can win against me who is the master? You can feel relieved. Even if you die, Vel, I will continue your magic training in the other world." (Talrand)

I ended up being tossed into a battle with master with whom I reunited by force.

Chapter 94: Fight to Death with Master

"——Master! Why?" (Wendelin)

"Vel, you are saying something strange there, aren't you? I think you’d understand if you consider my current situation." (Alfred)

Although I had a reunion with master after roughly ten years, I was forced to fight against him.

The magician Talrand, who showed up at the dinner meeting, can apparently employ a unique spell called 『Hero Summoning』 which enables him to summon masters and great men who have already passed away.

In the beginning Talrand summoned the first generation Earl Armstrong, Doushi's ancestor, but with his compatibility with the spellcaster being bad, he was soon switched for another person.

Next he summoned my master Alfred Reinford and unleashed merciless magic attacks against me.

"(Is that really master himself?)" (Wendelin)

Seeing that I don't know the structure of 『Hero Summoning』, I couldn't come to an answer.

Maybe Talrand has only transformed into master.

"Well then, I will have you show me how much you have improved." (Alfred)

Master makes dozens of dodgeball-sized 『Ice Spheres』 float above his head and throws those one after the other at me.

"Shit!"

I blocked them with my 『Magic Barrier』 in a hurry, but a trap was hidden within one of those spheres.

Deliberately strengthening the penetration power of one 『Ice Sphere』, only that one got through my 『Magic Barrier』 and flew towards my face.

I evade at once, but the 『Ice Sphere』 grazes my cheek causing a gash.

It was a minor injury, but it shocked me.

"(He charged his mana into just one ice sphere while the others were dummies!? While saving on mana, he broke my strengthened 『Magic Barrier』 with a little amount of mana. For such thing to be possible....)"

The skill to set up such a way of using magic and offensive methods was impossible for anyone but master.

I guess only Burkhart-san might also be capable of such feat.

No matter how much mana we have, for the young Katharina and me it's a stunt we can't possibly perform yet.

"Vel, did you think that it's nothing more than a simple disguise?" (Alfred)

Next he created dozens of rock bullets and burst them against my 『Magic Barrier』.

Just like before, only one pierced the 『Magic Barrier』 and this time I felt a pain travelling through my right shoulder after getting hit there.

I have been saved because of my robe and the drop in power when the rock bullet penetrated the 『Magic Barrier』.

The attack by master was abated by the robe which is a legacy of master.

Ironic, isn't it?

"Leaving that aside...." (Wendelin)

Even though master repeated the same attack pattern twice, I wasn't able to evade it.

The spells themselves aren't that complicated and in terms of master's mana, they don't use up that much either.

And yet I have been already wounded in two places.

"Magic is all about imagining. You have increased your mana overwhelmingly in comparison to the time when we met, but your control is still lacking. Though you might say that it's inevitable since you are still young, such an excuse doesn't work on the battlefield. How regrettable. It makes me want to teach you once more." (Alfred)

The possibility that it's really master increased.

That's because he declared that bluntly while showing a smile, which makes one feel a freshness to the extent of being sarcastic, towards Burkhart-san who is intently looking this way due to the return of his pupil that should have died.

"It's been a while, teach." (Alfred)

"That way of calling me...." (Burkhart)

"Until I turned twenty I always called you like that, didn't I?" (Alfred)

"No way.... The guy called Talrand or whatever shouldn't know how Al called me...." (Burkhart)

Realizing that it's really Alfred, Burkhart-san's face became pale.

"Teacher...." (Katharina)

"Katharina-jou-chan, excuse me for a bit." (Burkhart)

"No, I understand your feelings. But, that person is...." (Katharina)

"Katharina-jou-chan, Though I understand your feelings, don't come to rescue me. Even that will be used by that man, got it? Rather than that...." (Burkhart)

"Yes. Please leave the defense of the headquarters to me." (Katharina)

"Sorry." (Burkhart)

"In reality I want to support Wendelin-san, but...." (Katharina)

"I'm really sorry. But I can't have you get involved with Talrand who took Al's shape." (Burkhart)

The effect of Talrand transforming into master was tremendous.

After all he pulled me, Burkhart-san and Doushi away from the battlefield.

If even Katharina leaves at this point, it will become dangerous for the headquarters of the liberation army.

"But, if something happens to Wendelin-san, no matter what you told me, teacher, I will...." (Katharina)

"Even if I have to sacrifice myself in worst case, I won't allow for Earl-sama to die." (Burkhart)

"Understood." (Katharina)

Katharina agrees and begins to devote herself to the protection of our headquarters.

"Having said that, Al as an opponent, huh....? But even then, he's the most troublesome type of magician, isn't he....?" (Burkhart)

Besides our duel, the battle progress moves forward as well.

Given that a large quantity of arrows and spells are pouring down on the headquarters with Therese in it, Katharina decided to deal with the situation by herself for a while.

She simply focuses on sequentially deploying 『Magic Barriers』 and defends against the attacks by the rebel army.

Therese's group, Philip and the others seemed to be worried about us, but they continue battling at the various locations.

It looks like they are earnestly giving out orders without calling out to us.

"Now that it has come to this, I feel lucky that I received special training from teacher." (Katharina)

With her previous way of using magic she might have been overwhelmed sooner or later by the large amount of spells and arrows.

The rest she won't mention since she's in front of Therese, but I'm pretty sure that she believes it to be great that her mana has also increased after the marriage.

Even after Burkhart-san left, Katharina protected Therese and the headquarters with an impregnable defense.

"Al." (Burkhart)

"You have never heard of the spell called 『Hero Summoning』? Oh right, the only one who can use this kind of magic is Talrand." (Alfred)

Even while talking with Burkhart-san, master doesn't cease his attacks against me.

He attacks my surroundings with fire magic and just as I defend against that with my 『Magic Barrier』, a large amount of sharp rocks suddenly protrudes out of the ground.

While dodging those in a hurry, I cut them with small 『Wind Cutters』, but missing to deal with one of them, my right thigh got cut up.

My skin and flesh alongside the trousers is torn and the wound bleeds vehemently.

By all rights it was a wound that had to be stitched, but I quickly healed it with healing magic together with the two previous wounds.

I was at an overwhelming disadvantage in the battle against master.

The me at the time when I was taught magic by him and the current me are completely different as for the mana and spells I can use.

Therefore I prided myself to be capable of winning even if it was really master himself.

And yet, once I look at the situation, it has resulted in something like this.

The current amount of mana of master is far lower than mine, but even so it's beyond advanced level if you use a normal magician as standard.

Since he has mana beyond the standard, he uses it freely and efficiently to skillfully exploit my weaknesses and deliver damage to me.

Although they feel shaken as well, Burkhart-san and Doushi seem to believe that they will cause a fatal opening that will be used by master if they cut into our match in a bad way.

While casting range attacks at the enemies in the surroundings, they continued observing in order to try finding a gap for thrusting themselves into our battle.

"The presence of this man called Talrand was extremely weak since the time he was born." (Alfred)

I don't know whether it's master or Talrand, but he continues his monologue.

"He couldn't even get his parents to notice him easily. Ordinary parents will be happy if they learn that their child has mana. But with even that not happening, he left his home and became an adventurer." (Alfred)

It seems that even after becoming an adventurer, Talrand's presence continued to be thin.

"No matter how much he earned, no one took notice of him for some reason. That was something strange, but it was also the condition to acquire 『Hero Summoning』." (Alfred)

That means he can easily accept the souls of people that died in the past in his body since he himself is close to non-existent.

"The conditions are: his target has to have passed away already and he has to at least know their name. It's not necessary to have extended knowledge about the target. That's why he was able to wear the first generation Earl Armstrong. In reverse, he can't use living people no matter how much he knows about them. Though I guess that's only natural since they are alive." (Alfred)

"So that's why he was able to use you, Al, who wasn't that famous either....?" (Burkhart)

"In the end 『Hero Summoning』 is nothing more than the spell name. It allows him to wear dead people and freely use their abilities. The reason why Talrand chose me is not because a difference in power or because I was a great magician who carved his name into history, but to disturb you, Vel, teach and Klimt." (Alfred)

"Hmph! What nasty character!" (Armstrong)

"That's the best possible praise." (Talrand)

Master continues to attack while explaining.

As standard he adds unpleasant attacks and feints after blinding my eyes.

Even though I understood that, I kept getting injured as I was unable to stop those attacks.

Since the robe is sturdy, it doesn't get cut, but the shirt and trousers below were torn up and stained with blood.

I can heal the wounds with healing magic, but since I'm only getting injured, the mental weariness is intense.

The amount of bleeding increased gradually as well, and as healing magic doesn't recover lost blood, my body became slightly sluggish.

"He is unexpectedly tenacious, isn't he? I wonder, did you train him more than I expected? But...." (Alfred)

Even though I was breathing heavily, master had a composed expression while talking to Burkhart-san.

"Teach, Vel has grown, hasn't he? I suppose my sole regret is that he won't have any time to grow any further." (Alfred)

"You. Do you plan to kill your own pupil!?" (Burkhart)

"I will. I can't help it. Right now Talrand has drawn back, but since he's the one in control, I can't go against him. However, it's truly vexing. Even though he has grown into such a wonderful magician." (Alfred)

"Alfred!"

Doushi, who had stayed silent until now, suddenly raises his voice.

He probably ended up exploding due to the merciless attacks against me and the reunion with his best friend.

"Klimt, did you teach him defensive body movements or such?" (Alfred)

"Are there any shortcomings?" (Armstrong)

"No, Vel is still young. It's a problem that can be completely fixed with time. However, he won't have that time anymore." (Alfred)

"Won't have that time? I'm sorry to break it to you, but this place is a battlefield and not a place that allows a reunion showdown play between master and pupil. Aren't you misunderstanding something here, Al?" (Burkhart)

"Indeed, it's just as Burkhart-dono says. There are various things to consider, but I think that we should send Alfred back to the netherworld again with the three of us." (Armstrong)

Seeing me struggle hard, Burkhart-san and Doushi apparently decided to participate in the battle.

However, the liberation army's magicians are forced to stand-in for their share.

That means that the support of these two in the battle against the rebel army with its huge numbers was that overwhelming.

"(But, isn't it odd?)" (Wendelin)

I felt a doubt while panting.

Even if master challenged me to a one-on-one duel here, he should at least know that Doushi and Burkhart-san will immediately join as helpers since it's a battlefield.

And yet, what's with his composure?

"Won't a 3 vs. 1 be difficult even for you, Al?" (Burkhart)

"Watching over a fair and square 1 vs. 1 battle might be manners, but the circumstances don't allow that." (Armstrong)

Doushi and Burkhart-san close the distance to master. Seeing that, master suddenly starts to laugh loudly.

"Teach and Klimt, you are certainly naive. How is there any reason for me to fight a 3 vs. 1 battle? First of all, there's no way I can win that." (Alfred)

"Will you surrender then?" (Burkhart)

"Teach, that's definitely impossible. I'm under Talrand's control. And, Talrand has also prepared a solution for this." (Alfred)

At the same time as he says that, master takes out two objects from his pocket and tosses them in front of the two.

Once I look at these things that dropped on the ground, I saw fist-sized magic gems with a black lustre which looked look like ornaments with a silver frame that had geometrical patterns which I have never seen before.

"Magic tools? Though I have never seen them, are they possibly...." (Burkhart)

"As expected of you, Teach. You are right. There are items stocked up from a source Talrand forbid me to speak about." (Alfred)

In other words, those are probably legacies of the Ancient Magic Civilization which Duke Nürnberg obtained from an underground ruin.

"Though it takes a bit time to set them up...." (Alfred)

Once master mutters some chant while closing his eyes, the shape of the two magic tools begins to transform.

They gradually continued to turn into human shape and in the end completely looked like master.

"With this it's 3 vs. 3." (Alfred)

"You think that we will be defeated by such puppets!?"

"Certainly, these are puppets indeed. But, they have an unexpectedly good performance." (Alfred)

The two puppets respectively stand in front of Burkhart-san and Doushi.

And, without any hesitation, they started to attack the two.

"Besides, it's not really necessary for them to win." (Alfred)

"Because it will be fine as long as they hold back those two until you kill me?" (Wendelin)

"Exactly, Vel." (Alfred)

The puppets appear to be copy weapons that fight by using mana loaded into the magic gems and master's combat patterns.

The reason for master to currently focus his consciousness on the puppets is probably because it takes time to apply his data to the puppets.

"(Is Talrand the one operating the puppets? Even so, right now he isn't concentrating on me.)" (Wendelin)

If I stay idle while observing master's actions like this, it will turn into a disadvantage for our side.

Abandoning the lip service of an one-on-one duel, I secretly released 『Wind Cutters』 towards master.

The one who said that there's no cowardice or such bullshit on the battlefield is master himself.

"A good judgement, Vel. But, it won't work on me." (Alfred)

Even while operating the puppets, master offset my 『Wind Cutters』 with his own 『Wind Cutters』.

Moreover, in an instant he offsets only those that would apparently damage himself.

Even in this situation he doesn't stop on saving his mana.

It's a terribly calm way of handling the situation.

"After all I have less mana than you, Vel. So saving mana is nothing more than the basics." (Alfred)

While understanding the difference in mana between me and himself, he corners me by freely using very efficient spells.

He has absolutely no weak points. Gradually I'm running out of ideas how I can hit him.

"Vel, have a look." (Alfred)

It seems that he completely finished setting up the puppets.

One is fighting Burkhart-san.

"Tsk! The current me can't win even against a fake Al!" (Burkhart)

Master's puppet forced Burkhart-san into an one-sided defensive battle.

Losing out in the department of mana, even the techniques, which Burkhart-san believed to be better, mostly don't make any difference anymore.

The two counterbalanced each other by firing various spells, but the current state is Burkhart-san being overpowered.

"I can keep fighting it somehow since it's a puppet. If this was the real Al, I would be already dead, wouldn't I?" (Burkhart)

Exactly because it is a puppet that lacks the ability to come up with instantaneous decisions and measurements, Burkhart-san can manage somehow by making use of his experience.

Burkhart-san said so before, but it seems his statement that he had already been overtaken in ability as a magician by master was true.

"Teach, if you don't defeat the puppet, you won't be able to help Vel." (Alfred)

"I guess you are right there." (Burkhart)

Getting enraged here and losing sight of himself might be as expected of Burkhart-san.

However, it was also a fact that his breathing is gradually getting heavier and that he's getting cornered.

"It would be our loss if you used a large number of these things, right?"

"I guess. Talrand's employer evaluates this highly for mass production, meaning an army corps of me's will sweep over the continent." (Alfred)

"I see, I see." (Burkhart)

Burkhart-san revealed a meaningful smile upon master's lighthearted chatter.

Master purposely saying something like this as if messing around probably means that there's only that many magic tools that can be transformed into puppets.

"Well then, I wonder how’s Klimt keeping at it?" (Alfred)

"Tsk! This speedy number of moves, the magic power and bundled strength is just a copy of Alfred's ability!" (Armstrong)

When I turned my look towards Doushi next, Doushi was in a continuous state of defending due to the large amount of spells successively fired by the puppet.

"Vel, Klimt's magic is always a raging stream. You deal against such type of magician with a different type of magician, an elusive one. Once you do, what do you think will happen?" (Alfred)

"The battle will fall into a stalemate!" (Wendelin)

"Such story-like development isn't rare. There are only very few people who can elude Klimt's attacks. To counter this, you overwhelm him with even more powerful attacks." (Alfred)

As a matter of fact, the puppet fighting against Doushi released a huge barrage of spells at the same level as master.

Even Doushi has no other option but to cope with a defensive approach.

If he tries to go on the offensive in a bad way, he will be struck by a large quantity of spells and even Doushi should be torn to shreds by that.

"Well, but...."

Master's mana shouldn't be able to win against Doushi who increased his mana.

No matter how much the puppet might overwhelm him at the beginning, I believe only defeat awaits it later once its mana runs out.

"No need to worry about that. After all it will be fine as long as Teach and Klimt can't make a move for the short time it will take me to kill you, Vel." (Alfred)

They might have copied master's abilities, but in the end they are nothing more than puppets.

Therefore it seems that he's confident in killing me while using the puppets as simple restraints.

"You have quite the high opinion of yourself, don't you?" (Wendelin)

"I see that you still have the composure to say something like that. Your helpers have to do their utmost to protect themselves. Well then, I wonder what you will do, Vel?" (Alfred)

Having finished the setting of the puppets, master completely concentrates on me once again.

Looking into his well-featured face, I felt a sensation as if my heart was tightly grabbed.

"No use! I won't be able to win against Al and the puppet! Doushi!" (Burkhart)

"Funuu~~~! If I ease up on the defence even a bit, I will depart this world in an instant!" (Armstrong)

Burkhart-san and Doushi were on the defensive due to the amount of mana of the magic gems affixed to the magic tools with master's combat data.

"I'm not quite able to give you any fatal damage." (Alfred)

And I'm bleeding throughout my whole body after continuing to receive master's attacks.

I'm somehow evading fatal injuries, but always suffering damage shaves off my stamina.

I start attacks from my side as well, but those get completely evaded.

"Vel, you have to fire your spells after properly reading your opponent's attack pattern, otherwise you are just wasting mana meaninglessly." (Alfred)

"...."

"You did very well to hold out until this point. Let's put an end to it about now then?" (Alfred)

At the same time as master says that, he vanishes from my field of vision.

And, in the next instant I felt a presence behind me.

"No way!"

I strengthen my 『Magic Barrier』 in panic, but before that, master inflicted a lethal blow against me.

A flaming sword blade protruded out of my belly.

He doesn't hold the hilt of a magic sword. He produced a flaming sword blade out of his hand by just imagining it.

"Vel, magic is about image and control." (Alfred)

I remember that master had changed all his ten fingers into 『Flames』 and shaped numbers with those in the past.

While counting down the numbered flames from 0 to 10*, he returned them into fingers in order.

(T/N: author either meant 1 to 10 or 0 to 9 here)

It's possible for me as well, but it still takes time for me to produce numbered flames.

"This.... fast.... besides, master.... you shouldn't be able to use 『Teleportation』...." (Wendelin)

Even before that, he shouldn't be able to use movement magic under the influence of that device.

But, in reality he stabbed my belly and my consciousness was gradually fading away.

"I can't do anything but 『Move』 an extremely short distance. As for the other trick, it's a secret." (Alfred)

"Guhoo...." (Wendelin)

Having had my belly stabbed and burned, I collapse on the spot while spitting out blood from my mouth.

"Earl Baumeister!" (Armstrong)

"Klimt, I don't think that you are in any situation to worry about others." (Alfred)

"Alfreeeed~~~!" (Armstrong)

Doushi tries to come to my rescue, but he was stopped in front of a large amount of spells fired by master's puppet.

I couldn't expect any help from him.

"It's a war, so you shouldn't expect me, or rather Talrand, to be negligent in the preparations. Wasn't your thinking a bit too overly optimistic?" (Alfred)

"Damn....!" (Armstrong)

I manage to get up a bit while master is focussing on Doushi, but due to the large amount of bleeding and a burning pain travelling throughout my body, my body was heavy.

Even so, the pain should abate after adrenaline has been released into my brain.

Thanks to that, I managed to not faint.

The ground is dyed with my blood.

Fortunately he has apparently missed my vital spots and organs, but my consciousness is hazy due to the awful bleeding.

"It seems that you practised healing magic to quite a degree. Though it looks like your body's sluggish." (Alfred)

I somehow close up the wound with healing magic, but my body is still heavy because of the huge blood loss.

There's still plenty of mana left.

And yet I can't reach master at all.

Even though I should have an overwhelming advantage with my big mana pool, I have actually been one-sidedly beaten down by master's skillful techniques.

Gradually I'm assailed by a feeling of despair.

I felt like master was too far ahead and that I would never be able to win against him.

"Al...." (Burkhart)

Even Burkhart-san on whom I have always relied, has fallen into a pinch after being overpowered by master's puppet.

Currently trying to not getting killed himself is the best he can do.

It's the same for Doushi, too. He's simply blocking the large number of spells fired by master's puppet.

"Alfred!" (Armstrong)

"You know, if you don't stop me completely, your allies behind you will die in great numbers." (Alfred)

"You bastaaard~~~!" (Armstrong)

"Klimt, I told you, didn't I? This is a war." (Alfred)

Master and Talrand could not only kill me, but also calmly seal off the movements of Burkhart-san and Doushi, who are cornerstones of the liberation army's military power.

They plan to overrun our allies' headquarters in the rear with the puppets' magic if the two of them attempt to escape.

Realizing this, the two couldn't move from the spot all the more.

"Master, you are.... hiding a talent as excellent tactician beside being a great magician?" (Wendelin)

"Who knows? I wonder about that?" (Alfred)

I guess there's also master's astounding power that can't be measured only by mana?

He is targeting my life using anything at hand without relying only on his own strength.

"Teach, Klimt, I'm extremely sorry about this kind of reunion." (Alfred)

"You are really an asshole." (Burkhart)

"Meeting you after quite a long time, you've become a detestable guy!" (Armstrong)

Even I understand Burkhart-san's and Doushi's agitation.

I guess master is an important person for these two after all.

Of course it's the same for me as well, but my association with master was the shortest.

There might be various friendships and memories I don't know of.

"The three of you are excellent magicians. As such it won't become shameful with me as opponent." (Alfred)

Due to master's words, we feel increasingly depressed.

Especially I apparently need to accept my defeat with my body's heaviness due to blood loss.

"Master...." (Wendelin)

"I wonder, won't you give up and let yourself obediently killed by me? That's also a smart choice. I told you before, but I will teach you magic in the other world." (Alfred)

"...."

Isn't that fine in itself if there's really something like a world after death?

At the instant my feeling completely slanted towards resignation, I hear the voice of a young woman from behind me.

"Dear! You must not!" (Elise)

"Elise?" (Wendelin)

It was Elise shouting from atop the wall.

A dignified voice unimaginable from her usual sweet and quiet voice enters my ears and stimulates my brain.

"There's 『Holy』 magic mixed into her voice?" (Alfred)

Master's attention shifted in an instant to Elise.

"Although 『Hero Summoning』 belongs to the 『Holy』 attribute, it's no different from summoning the dead! Please don't get deceived by the Call to Death used by a dead!" (Elise)

『Holy』 magic seems to have been weaved into Elise's voice.

Gradually my feelings that were gloomy until now clear up.

Even my body felt it while returning to its former condition albeit slowly.

"As expected! An attack of the dead also has something that causes an extreme weariness to the living. Dear!" (Elise)

Elise makes a dodgeball-sized, bluish-white mana ball fly towards me with a full swing.

It was an unbelievably active movement for Elise who always moves gracefully.

"Gah! That woman has sent healing magic over!?" (Alfred)

Master clicked his tongue and took a bit of distance from me.

Immediately following that, the bluish-white healing magic's sphere hits me and my body's heaviness vanishes all of a sudden.

In addition the few remaining wounds and parts that didn't heal completely recover to their original state.

Elise seems to be slightly superior in healing magic after all.

"Master pulled back? I see!" (Wendelin)

Since master has already died, he will likely be sent back to the world of the dead if he receives spells of the 『Holy』 attribute.

Therefore Talrand made master withdraw in order to prevent that.

"(Wait. Master is here because he's using Talrand's body. However, since the preferential right is with Talrand, his will has been given priority for a moment?)"

I pondered inside my head whether it’s not possible to use that somehow.

And then I hit upon a single idea.

"Master, I'm sorry for the second time, but please return to heaven." (Wendelin)

"You are talking quite big after receiving assistance from a woman." (Alfred)

"I have a weak character that gets cajoled by women. Besides, is there a definite reason for it to not be allowed unless in a one-on-one battle?" (Wendelin)

"No, there isn't. This is a war and no stupid duelling game of knights. I will settle our fight while Teach's and Klimt's movements are sealed by the puppets." (Alfred)

Master once again starts to fire spells at me.

Previously I was saved by Elise, but from here on I have no other option but to somehow handle it by myself.

I get injured by the spells that again had feints mixed in-between, but apparently I got used to injuries as well.

Without my body's heaviness, I had accustomed myself with the injuries' pain.

I continue to wait for my chance while holding out somehow.

"It seems like you have gotten used to my attacks. But, I have to kill you. Even if I don't wish for that, the current me is a being under Talrand's control. I'm going to have little to no mercy. Let's practise magic together in the other world." (Alfred)

"That's appreciated, but I still have at least 70 years ahead of me." (Wendelin)

Since I had a short life of 25 years as Japanese, I had no intention to die early in this world.

"How demanding of you, Vel." (Alfred)

As it is there was no progress and thus I took the initiative from my side next.

I create a huge amount of softball-sized fireballs and release them one after the other.

Their numbers reach several hundreds, but master dodged those with short-distance 『Teleportation』 instead of using his 『Magic Barrier』.

However, no matter to where he runs, I make fireballs chase after him in succession.

Unfortunately master hasn't been hit by even a single one, but I didn't stop with that strategy.

"Where are you aiming at?" (Alfred)

"Your position." (Wendelin)

The fireballs that didn't hit master impacted behind him and reduced many soldiers to ash.

Even while seeing that, master's expression doesn't change at all.

Talrand is probably believing that it doesn't matter.

That's because as Duke Nürnberg's protege he likely thinks that there's no problem even if the disposable vanguard gets annihilated.

"As expected, I guess the losses are a bit high." (Talrand)

However, with the continuous casualties, there was apparently a change in his thinking.

It will be fine as long master dodges the fireballs, but it's not like the soldiers can do so as well.

It's not like magicians, who can use a 『Magic Barrier』, have been deployed to all units. Since they are focussing on attacking the field encampment, it's unlikely that they are capable of dealing with instantaneous stray bullets.

Rather than master, the inner Talrand probably thought that it would be a major problem if the number of those in charge of attacking would decrease.

Thus it has now reached the point that he's offsetting my fireballs with small ice spheres.

"Tsk!"

"Master, you are wasting your mana, you know?" (Wendelin)

"It's for the sake of my precious allies", or something like that is what master tells me, but there's no doubt that master should be raging by now due to Talrand, who meddled with the mana consumption's distribution, having done something pointless.

To not show that on his face is as expected of master, but it looks like he's somehow also hurrying a bit.

Finally I found a way to defeat master.

Using my overwhelmingly larger mana pool, I increase the number of attacks even further.

"(He's feeling shaken by having his mana consumption's distribution obstructed after all.)"

Master blocked the magic attacks against his allies with the least amount of mana, but even so he immediately ends up reaching the limit of his mana.

"(The only thing I can win against master with is mana. In that case it's best to win by using that.)"

Having finally gone on the offensive, I come up with a strategy that has some potential to cause a turn-around.

And, for the sake of realizing it, I began to incite master psychologically.

"I forgot to tell you what's the most important for me right now, Master."

"I'd like you to tell me by all means, Vel." (Alfred)

"To not have a story-like one-on-one battle while feeling pathetically shaken due to having a reunion with master after a long time, but to win this fight, right?" (Wendelin)

"That's correct." (Alfred)

Master frankly answers my question with his former mannerism.

This might be a chance in itself.

"As such, get ready." (Wendelin)

For that reason I continue firing a large quantity of fireballs.

I adjust them so that they strike against the enemies in the rear even if they aren't hit by them. At the moment their total number easily surpassed thousands, even master was finally hit by several shots.

They are repelled by his 『Magic Barrier』, however it should unrest master to have his 『Teleportation』 pattern read.

"Vel, that's an inefficient usage of mana, isn't it?" (Alfred)

"Indeed, but, I will keep at it." (Wendelin)

At last it had reached the point where he has been hit by fireballs in the hundreds.

They are repelled by his 『Magic Barrier』 all the same, but each time master's mana decreases.

It had an extremely bad performance in whittling down his mana since my own mana decreases at a higher rate, but going by my calculations, master's mana will still run out first.

He might be my master, but if he's out of mana, he will be a normal person.

"Vel.... Your mana is...." (Alfred)

"It's been roughly 11 years. My mana pool is still growing." (Wendelin)

"Klimt! Vel is!" (Alfred)

"A terrifying man, right? My mana has increased as well, but I can't catch up to him anymore." (Armstrong)

While making a huge amount of fireballs fly at master, I finished my preparations to shoot a huge flame spell of a totally different category.

I create a huge fireball with a diameter of around ten meters in midair and have the other smaller fireballs merge with that.

My aim is not master.

It's the location of the headquarters commanded by Duke Nürnberg who is quite busy with urging on the vanguard to fight more vigorously.

I release the super-huge fireball towards that place.

"It will be alright if the magicians at Duke Nürnberg's side can defend against it!" (Alfred)

The distance was several kilometers, but I have still mana remaining to make it fly there at high speed.

Rather than fighting an one-on-one battle and reminiscence in nostalgia with master, the civil war will end faster by killing that man.

For me to reach that conclusion is likely because I'm a noble after all.

"Talrand, it's bad luck that you are not at your master's side, isn't it?" (Wendelin)

I fired the huge huge fireball not in the direction of master but towards Duke Nürnberg.

"Not with me." (Talrand)

Thereupon master at once goes to stop it.

Deploying his 『Magic Barrier』 and 『Ice Spheres』, he tried to cancel out my fireball.

The fireball becomes smaller gradually, but at that moment I add fireballs as supplement.

Master once again creates 『Ice Spheres』 and extinguishes the fire, but master's mana had visibly diminished.

"You really aren't master after all!" (Wendelin)

If it was really master himself, he wouldn't do something like obstructing the fireballs.

This behaviour was a phenomenon only possible because Talrand's control was stronger.

"For Talrand the safety of his owner is the most important. Master doesn't care about the life of Duke Nürnberg, right?" (Wendelin)

The jostling in-between the fireball continued for a while, but with master forcibly being made to create a huge 『Ice Sphere』, the fireball got extinguished completely.

Master sighs in relief, but this isn't master.

It's just Talrand being relieved that no harm has come to Duke Nürnberg.

"(Master, you have only little mana remaining.)"

It was a chance.

If he makes his mana recover with magic gems or such, it will become troublesome again.

Even if I try to fight him by devoting myself to finesse, it will only end in injuries anyway.

In that case.... With that I take out the hilt of a magic sword out of my magic bag and close the distance to master in one go.

Master certainly tried to replenish his mana with prepared magic gems.

But since I entered close combat range by using that gap, he quickly produces his 『Magic Sword』 out of his own hand.

"Get ready!"

The magic sword that immediately produced an ice blade pierces master's heart.

At almost the same time, the flame sword created by master stabbed my right shoulder and perforated it.

Once again a pain of getting burned runs through my right shoulder, but it was obvious for anyone that this was master's loss as his heart had been stabbed.

"Well done, Vel." (Alfred)

"Master!" (Wendelin)

Having his heart stabbed, Talrand should have already died.

For master being able to talk is probably because his real form is that of a soul summoned by 『Hero Summoning』.

"You have grown up. You became strong, too." (Alfred)

"No, I wasn't able to win using proper means...." (Wendelin)

"Even so, it's fine. Magic is nothing more than a tool, therefore it's fine to use any way as long as you win. Since I couldn't defy Talrand, I truly was going to kill you, Vel. Because you saw through that and fired a huge spell at the enemy's headquarters, Talrand ended up defending against it due to his usual habit. Having come up with that and realized it means that it's your win, Vel." (Alfred)

"Master...." (Wendelin)

"If Talrand had left it up to me, I might have killed you. But, that man immediately snatched away the control of this body and moved to protect his master. Because my mana was reduced too much, I lost to you, Vel." (Alfred)

Even though I met him again after a decade, I'm once again about to make him rest in peace.

Thinking of that, tears well up due to my own cruelty.

"Alfred!"

"Al!"

"Yo, Teach and Klimt. Let me apologize while I still have time. Sorry." (Alfred)

"Don't worry. That matter is already done with."

Burkhart-san and Doushi rush over as well once they realized that the match had been decided.

The bodies of the two puppets that made sport of those two returned into their former magic tool state at the same time as master, who operated them, was brought down.

Did they reach their operational limit?

They became tattered and crumbled away.

"There was a quality decline due to degradation over time for excavated items as well, I guess?" (Alfred)

"You always stay calm, don't you?"

"As knowledgeable as ever."

"I was simply summoned from the world of the dead. It's no more than a fraction of information I obtained after assimilating with Talrand and his knowledge." (Alfred)

Burkhart-san and Doushi surround me, who is restraining his right shoulder's bleeding with a hand, and master who is lying down.

"Now's a chance! Kill those three!"

"You are nuisances!" (Burkhart)

"Butt out!" (Armstrong)

Did Talrand’s non-existing presence vanish upon his death?

A part of the enemy forces was surging this way, but they were slaughtered after getting torn to pieces by Doushi's fire snakes and Burkhart-san's 『Wind Cutters』.

Furthermore....

"Even if this is a battlefield, that's an inelegant conduct." (Ina)

"Disturbance is prohibited since they have an important talk." (Luise)

"Won't allow them to get any closer." (Wilma)

Ina with her spear throwing, Luise with her stone throwing and Wilma with her merciless sniping begin to defend against the enemy army's approach.

"Now! Kill them!"

Even so, there were still units that closed in, but all of them fell to the ground alongside thunderous roars.

"Savages of the empire, can't you understand the hearts of others?"

Upon the gun shooting by the Magic Gunner Unit commanded by High Earl Mizuho, they go down to the ground that is dyed with their blood.

They continuously fired their precious magic guns in order to give us and master time to bid farewell from each other.

"This spells the defeat of the rebel army." (Alfred)

"The military power distribution is still disadvantageous for our side, you know?"

"How pitiful. They failed despite me being one of their trump cards as well." (Alfred)

"For you to be able to talk about yourself this calmly." (Burkhart)

"I'm dying already after all." (Alfred)

Master, who was lying on the ground, continued to peacefully talk with Burkhart-san despite being close to his 3rd death.

Now he's able to talk normally, but it looks like he will be called to the afterworld once again very soon since Talrand, his main body, has died instantly.

"Klimt, you taught Vel, didn't you?" (Alfred)

"Only up to a point, but yes." (Armstrong)

"I see. You have my thanks. Normally I would want to treat you to a drink, but I don't have any time left anymore." (Alfred)

"That's regrettable." (Armstrong)

Doushi's voice seemed gloomier than usual.

It's likely because he has to part with his close friend very soon despite having met him again after a long time.

"Dear!" (Elise)

Moreover Elise, who saved me earlier, shows up while being accompanied by several soldiers of the royal army as guards.

The guards have likely been added since she has left the field encampment.

"Elise, this place is dangerous!" (Wendelin)

"Dear, haven't you suffered a very heavy injury?" (Elise)

I remember that my right shoulder had been stabbed after Elise points it out.

It's mysterious, but at the same time I thought about it, a sharp pain travelled through my right shoulder.

"I will heal it right away." (Elise)

My shoulder injury was healed in several seconds with Elise's healing magic.

There's likely no doubt that the current Elise is the leading healer on this continent since her mana has increased in addition to her precision being perfect to begin with.

"It's a splendid healing magic. A master of such degree is rare." (Alfred)

Master, who watched the situation, fully praised Elise's skill.

"Moreover, she's a beauty. Even the ones getting healed will be happy." (Alfred)

While he's at it, he doesn't forget to make a joke either.

It might be advantageous that master is an ikemen since she won't feel annoyed even if he blurts out such a remark.

"Thank you very much. I'm Elise, the wife of Wendelin-sama." (Elise)

"Vel, you have a pretty wife, don't you?" (Alfred)

"She’s a wife I can brag about." (Wendelin)

"I'm slightly jealous of you. I would have liked it to get married as well." (Alfred)

Master showed a gentle smile while looking at me and Elise in alternation.

"That's right. Alfred, even Burkhart-dono is now married." (Armstrong)

"Teach is? That's the biggest surprise today." (Alfred)

It seems even master was shocked by the fact that Burkhart-san, who was an extreme bachelor advocate, got married.

"You too, marry in the afterworld."

"That's fine as well, I guess? There are beautiful women that have left their names in history in the afterworld after all." (Alfred)

"You are popular, so seduce them skillfully."

"I will try my best."

For a dead to harmoniously talk with his friends and acquaintances.

I considered that to be a weird scenery since the surrounding is a cruel battlefield.

Even so, I was happy from the bottom of my heart for having met with master.

"Vel, I'm sorry that I gave you a lot of injuries."

"No, if you felt like it, you could have also killed me, no?" (Wendelin)

Especially that one blow from behind me.

Master probably waited for an opportunity while opposing Talrand's domination.

"If it's the current me, there's not that much difference in ability between the two of us, Vel. This kind of combat technique was the first time for me, therefore I passed it on to you. Since you will defend against it by using a lot of mana next time, even I won't be able to get the upper hand to such an extent. Besides, you always avoided a fatal wound. Since you have done it unconsciously, it's thanks to Klimt, I suppose?" (Alfred)

"Even for me he was a nice practise partner." (Armstrong)

"Ahaha.... That must have been a disaster." (Alfred)

"Don't be so cruel!" (Armstrong)

"It's just that you are too extreme at times!" (Alfred)

Master might also have suffered greatly by joining Doushi in his training in the past.

He revealed a wry smile.

"Well then, it's about time now." (Alfred)

Bluish-white light rises up from master's body. Gradually master's face becomes fainter and Talrand's face returns.

"You can use the pendant hanging on the neck of this man. I will give it to you, Vel. Though I'm talking quite arrogantly for it being someone else's possession." (Alfred)

"Master!"

"Teach, Klimt and Elise-san, stay healthy as well. Vel, it was great that I could meet the grown you." (Alfred)

Once he left those final words, master's face completely vanished and it turned back into Talrand's corpse.

It seems he really died right away since his heart was stabbed.

He wasn't breathing at all anymore.

"Master, I won't cry. However, I will deliver a blow to Duke Nürnberg who toyed with your death." (Wendelin)

As master said, there was a pendant with a blue gem around Talrand's neck.

I can easily imagine what kind of effect it has.

It's probably an item cancelling the movement magic jamming.

I put it around my neck and try floating with 『Flight』 right away.

"I guess it's not perfect, huh?"

It's a prototype or a flawed item?

Once I float up to a height of 20 meters, I end up stopping there.

As master said, it's probably impossible to 『Move』 unless it's within a fixed range.

Apparently it's not a special characteristic of master's magic, but the limit of this magic tool's efficiency.

"However, right now it's plenty with this." (Wendelin)

In the sky above the two armies' battle, I begin once again to prepare a very large fireball spell.

A huge fireball above me is gradually created. The enemy army, who saw that, hurls spells and arrows at me.

I block them with my 『Magic Barrier』, but compared to the previous attacks by master, it's nothing but normal spells without any kind of scheming.

All of them were repelled just like that.

"(The target is....)"

I start searching for the target location with my binoculars.

The headquarters, where Duke Nürnberg most likely is, would probably be cautious due to the huge fireball that master erased previously.

I could confirm a firm 『Magic Barrier』 being deployed by several magicians.

"(I'm afraid to say, but that's not the target.)"

With the previous spell that was aimed at their headquarters and that smart Duke Nürnberg, it's likely that they have set up countermeasure long ago as guard against assassination by me.

It was possible that Duke Nürnberg has already been replaced with a body double.

The target is not you! What will become a fatal weakness of such a big army is....

"Found it!"

I saw it at quite a distance.

It's the temporary, huge supply point that had a mountain of goods such as food to supply the 150.000 soldiers of the rebel army.

It's possible that there are magicians protecting that place as well, but their skills and numbers shouldn't be at the level of those at the headquarters.

Neither of the armies has the leeway to deploy large numbers of excellent magicians at all points.

"Certainly they won't be able to procure their food locally either."

There's no military position in the Great Sorbid Wastelands where it would be possible to supply food for an army exceeding 100.000 soldiers.

In other words, by burning these food supplies it would be possible to add a big constraint to the actions of the rebel army.

There are likely supplies arriving from the imperial capital, but with this I can force a lot of work on the enemy.

"It's master's funeral. Say goodbye to your food, Duke Nürnberg!"

I release the fireball towards the rebel army's supply point located approximately two kilometers in the rear.

Just before the impact, a single magician protects it by deploying a 『Magic Barrier』, but I cast 『Burst』 while refilling my mana with prepared magic gems.

The defending magician determinedly continues blocking the powered-up fireball with a 『Magic Barrier』.

He's probably at a point where he'd like to get some assistance, but the headquarters' magicians can't do anything.

That's because the ones who sealed off any 『Movement』 magic were them.

Finally the 『Magic Barrier』 gets smashed, the supply point alongside the magician is burned and the piled-up goods are wrapped up in flames.

Since it's dry as there has been little rain recently, the fire spreads quickly.

An unrest that's visible by just looking at them spread between the rebel army soldiers in the rear.

"Success!"

The rest is simply returning to the wall and continuing to defend.

The vanguard that doesn't know about the situation in the rear attacked without change, but as they are gradually getting infected by the unrest of the rear, their momentum declines.

The fire at the supply point slowly spread into the grasslands. The rebel army troops that noticed grew in numbers and at last a retreat order was handed down.

They withdraw in order starting with the rear unit that failed in extinguishing the fire at the supply point.

And, with the vanguard becoming the rear guard just like that, they have to defend against our pursuit.

"You have to decrease their numbers when it's possible, right?" (Alfons)

"Battou Unit, get ready!" (Mizuho)

"Earl Baumeister, I will take Erwin along." (Philip)

Alfons, who received Therese's decree, High Earl Mizuho and Philip swiftly decided to take up pursuit.

After all it's a chance to deliver a strike against the rebel army that's currently fleeing while showing their back to us.

"I will go as well." (Wendelin)

"I will accompany you." (Burkhart)

"Me too. My techniques will decline if I just defend against spells!" (Armstrong)

"Let's borrow a horse and hurry." (Wendelin)

"Earl-sama, how was that magic tool?" (Burkhart)

"Ahaha, this doesn't seem to be a finished product either." (Wendelin)

The pendant that cancelled the 『Movement』 magic jamming was used by the Master in succession and at the end by me as well. Its blue gem broke and it became unusable.

Accordingly, I decide to quickly borrow a horse and go on the pursuit.

"Hii! Earl Baumeister!"

"Will you die here or throw away your weapons and surrender?"

"I surrender! Please spare my life!"

The three of us start the pursuit while leading a group of 300 soldiers of the royal army.

But, with the rear guard being disposable paws to begin with, their morale was low and the majority of them surrendered all too quickly given that Duke Nürnberg's command unit had withdrawn as well.

Eru and the others, who left first, seem to be in the middle of cutting into the centre of that command unit.

The sound of fierce sword attacks can be heard from the front.

"Throw your weapons on the ground, put both your hands on your head and stay like that! A unit that will manage the prisoners will immediately arrive from behind. If you change your mind and pick a fight, I will burn you down to your bones without mercy." (Wendelin)

"We won't! We will follow your orders!"

"We don't have that much obligation towards Duke Nürnberg!"

The majority of the mercenaries, who were proud of their military prowess, and nobles trembled terribly and agreed to surrender because of me, who reduced their supply point completely to ashes, and the fireballs which appeared in large quantities during my battle with master.

"I got pissed off because of the matter with Al, but it's easier than expected, isn't it?" (Burkhart)

"Everyone shares the sentiment of not wanting to get burned by your fire magic, Earl Baumeister. Even surrendering will weaken the other side's military power, therefore the pursuit will continue as is!" (Armstrong)

In the end we pursued them until evening. Only us should have secured close to 10,000 prisoners.

However, the enemy was formidable as well. Duke Nürnberg's personal unit succeeded in retreating without overly many losses. It was still far away from a situation where we could feel relieved about the war progress.

Even so, a win is a win.

The liberation army's loud cheering echoed throughout the field encampment.

* * *

(Note: Here in WN, Wendelin defeated his master, while in the LN, Wendelin, Burkhart and Doushi lost the fight and were merely rescued by Wendelin using the tactical move of burning the supplies, causing the rebel army to retreat, which interrupted the battle against Alfred (Talrand). Therefore, Talrand was still alive in the next volume. So I decided to end the Volume 9 on this chapter.)