I’m an Appraiser, But What the Heck is a [Divine Eye]? ~I Want to Live Freely as the World’s Best Beginner Class~ - Episode 102: War 2

Episode 102: War 2

Three days had passed since the war began.

By this point, the outcome was nearly decided, and Maria had passed a significant milestone.

“…Phew. At this rate, it seems we can keep Kouya-sama in reserve.” 

“If I were involved, we could have ended this in a day.”

“That may be true, but you are the army’s greatest trump card. We cannot send you to the front lines so easily.”

“…Yeah, I know. I just wish they had put in a bit more effort.”

The “they” Kouya referred to were the five with advanced-class professions deployed with the army. Each had been placed at the core of their respective forces, relishing the combat with evident excitement. The reason Maria had brought them to the war was simple—they were battle maniacs. While their abilities were enhanced by the power of the Magic Eyes, the main factor that prioritized them was their insatiable thirst for battle.

“They’re doing their best, Kouya-sama.”

“Yeah, but… expecting them to perform like I do is probably asking too much.”

Maria smiled warmly, trying to lighten the mood. And Kouya smiled back.

“…It looks like the first stage of the war will end tomorrow.”

“Indeed. But, Maria, you’re not planning to stop here, are you?”

“Of course not. We will march straight to the capital of the Kingdom of Rodgrul, and finish it all in one stroke.”

“Ah!”

Kouya grinned and, hugging Maria, left the tent. As he did, a woman entered to replace him.

“Excuse me, Maria-sama.”

The woman with short-cropped red hair spoke politely but in a somewhat rough tone. Despite this, Maria paid no mind and greeted her kindly.

“Thank you for your hard work, Akagi Ena-sama.”

“…Yeah, it’s been exhausting. I hope I can enjoy some comfort in the new country we’ll establish.”

Akagi Ena. This woman was one of the five advanced class fighters in the army.

“Really now. You do know people might still come here, don’t you?”

“Don’t worry. I’ve already cleared the area.”

It was a curious sight. Even Kouya, a person of special class, maintained a level of formality with Maria, despite their mutual feelings for each other—or at least that’s what he thinks. Yet, Ena spoke to Maria in her usual casual manner.

“Still, isn’t your use of us a bit rough? I’m fine, but the others have been complaining about how tired they are.” 

“If they’re exhausted from this, they’ll die when the next battle begins.”

“Hah! Maybe. But as long as the student council president and I are around, everything should be fine, right?”

“…Indeed, that’s probably true.”

The reason Ena spoke so freely was because—

“Honestly, I’d feel more at ease if you just died, Ena-san.”

“Scary as always. Well, if the fact that you’re trying to seize the kingdom ever got out, even your foolish father might decide to eliminate you.”

Yes, Ena had accidentally overheard Maria’s plan to take control of the Kingdom of Shriden.

“That’s irrelevant. Ena-san, for that reason, you might make yourself one of the target for elimination?”

Maria no longer had much use for Ena since her ambitions had shifted towards destroying the Kingdom of Rodgrul and establishing a new nation. Yet, she kept Ena close for a reason.

“Hah! That’s fine. I’m strong enough to survive even in the Forest of Demons!”

“Just kidding. You’re an important asset to me, Ena-san—someone who willingly follows me without the need for the Magic Eyes, and a partner who shares my secrets.”

Ena had learned of Maria’s scheme before the Magic Eyes could be used on her. She had overheard it while wandering the royal castle. It meant that even the Magic Eyes’ power, which had worked on individuals like Madoka and Yuria, had no effect on her.

“Tomorrow’s the day! I’ll settle this, so make sure the army is ready to march!”

“The preparations have already begun.”

“Whoa! You’re efficient. Alright, I’ll be off now.”

As Ena turned and waved with a raised hand, leaving the tent, Maria watched her with a sly smile.

“…Perhaps I should value Ena-san more than Kouya-sama.”

Maria was starting to feel that she and Ena were kindred spirits.

—The next day, the 40,000-strong army defending the Kingdom of Rodgrul suffered a crushing defeat.

Laughing loudly, Ena held up the severed head of the enemy commander.