Chapter 5: The Hero, the Sword Saint, and the Appraiser

Episode 259: Prologue 

“—Hmm, so you’re finally going, Mihiro?” 

At the heavy tone of His Majesty’s voice, I nodded once. 

Beside him, Dietrich-sama looked at me with concern. But the decision had already been made—it couldn’t be helped. 

“So, I see. But you will return, won’t you?” 

“Of course. I still have the development of the Forest of Demons to finish.” 

“Good! Then all is well! Leave Granzawall, the Post Town, and the Onsen District to me!” 

…I knew it would come to this! Your Majesty, you’re not worried about us at all, are you? You’re just obsessed with the Onsen District! 

“Your Majesty, with an attitude like that, it’s obvious your mind is elsewhere.” 

“It’s already obvious, though!” 

“However, the Onsen District will be a significant asset for Granzawall’s future development. His Majesty just wants to ensure it’s well protected.” 

“…Is that true?” 

“O-Of course! Ah, but this pastry is delicious! Hahaha!” 

………….He’s definitely trying to cover it up. And failing miserably at that. 

We were in Angrissa, the royal capital. It was partly to report on the recent raid by Akagi. 

I had requested an audience with His Majesty. And to my surprise, permission was granted immediately. It led to the current situation. 

“By the way, Your Majesty. Why are we meeting in the courtyard instead of the royal chamber or a private room?” 

“Hmm? Doesn’t it feel more atmospheric to eat pastries in the garden?” 

“…Wait, that’s your only reason?” 

“What other reason would there be?” 

…….Ah, okay. Never mind. 

Beside me, Alicia was giving a wry smile. While Moriya was quietly munching on cookies next to her. 

You can have as many of those as you want when we get back to the Onsen District, so maybe hold back a little now? 

Still, I hadn’t expected permission to travel to the Kingdom of Rodgrul to be granted so easily. 

Even though I’m from another world and technically free, I was nervous since this involved diplomatic relations between countries. It seems I was worried for nothing. 

“You’re quite broad-minded, you know.” 

“Huh? What are you talking about?” 

“Taking in Ena Akagi, a pawn of Maria Shriden. Normally, that would warrant severe punishment.” 

“We were well-prepared to counter her. There was no damage. And if she’s willing to join us, it’s a win for us.” 

There’s no reason to pass up the opportunity to recruit a level 75 Akagi. 

With Glenn around, she’s likely to stay loyal even if I leave Granzawall. 

From a defensive standpoint, having Akagi as an ally is a huge advantage for us. 

………..Though, it might be a bit of a complicated issue for Alicia, considering she’s Glenn’s sister. 

“I’ll trust your judgment on this.” 

“Thank you.” 

“Also, Maki…” 

Up until now, our conversation had been lighthearted. But His Majesty’s tone suddenly turned serious. 

“…W-What is it, Your Majesty?” 

“If you encounter danger in Rodgrul, don’t hesitate to send word. We will come to your aid without fail. Use the Mail Bird.” 

“Uh, but…..” 

“This is a decision I’ve made as the King of Adelreed. We wish to stand with you, Maki.” 

…Uh, I feel like this isn’t the kind of thing you casually discuss in the courtyard. 

Still, it’s reassuring to know I’ve earned this level of trust. 

“Normally, we should allocate personnel to support you as well, but……..” 

“It’s fine, really. This is something we decided, and we’ve committed to going as a small, elite group.” 

“But are you sure about this? It’s just you, Arata, and Haruka, right?” 

“Sunny and Haku are coming too. We’ll be fine.” 

We had already decided on our team for the journey to Rodgrul. 

“Huh? What about me?” 

“Wait, I didn’t hear anything about you coming, Moriya.” 

“I want to explore different places after so long. Besides, I’m from another world too, so I’m free to go wherever I want, right?” 

………….This guy just dropped a massive bombshell at the last second! 

“Hmm, with Taiku-sama going, I feel more reassured.” 

“Wait, Your Majesty?” 

“As you say, people from another world are free to do as they please.” 

“Even you, Dietrich-sama?” 

“Please take care of Maki-san and the others, Taiku-san!” 

“Even you, Alicia!?” 

…And so, Moriya’s inclusion in the group was settled on the spot. And we returned to Granzawall.