Chapter 182: Episode 182 "In order to solve the mystery of the waterside, all the cheat characters started t
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The next morning. You're at your vacation home in the sanctuary of Mischlila.
I'm afraid that's what happened.
As we transitioned to the recreation area, we were listening to Leticia and Cutlass' reports.
It was last night that we transitioned here.
One night later, and now Cecil, Aine, Iris, Raphilia, Leticia, and Cutlass are gathered in the living room of the villa. Rita should still be in the saint's labyrinth.
Letitia's report was brief and accurate.
Rita, Cutlass, and Letitia have taken care of Delilira (a golem with an entrance) and the mermaid (a mermaid) girl up the river.
Both the mermaid and the body of the demon found in the village - the "Horned Serpent" - are creatures of the sea and cannot be in the river.
And that for some reason there was not a single 'sea-related quest' in the Adventurer's Guild.
''It's kind of ...... spooky, isn't it?''
I agree.
Me, Letitia and Cutlass all nodded in unison.
Cecil and Iris also have a difficult look on their faces.
Aine and Rafilia stand up when they hear the sound of water boiling. It looks like they're going to make a cup of tea.
'What do you think, Cecil and Iris?'
I'd like to hear what the mermaid has to say. If you're a sub-human of the sea, you might have information about the Demon Dragon's Dungeon, which is located by the sea.
'Yes. If you're a sub-human associated with the sea, you might listen to what Iris has to say.
...... You have a point. Either way, we can't just leave that mermaid girl alone like this.
I think I should at least listen to what they have to say while I return them to the sea.
Besides, Iris has the blood of a sea dragon. To the sub-humans of the sea, she is the descendant of a god-like being. The current Iris might be able to communicate with the mermaid girl. If Cecil is with her, we can manage any magic-related problems.
I guess I should have the two of them go to the Saintess first.
Besides, the sea dragon Kerkator said that the sea is noisy lately. This might have something to do with what happened.
It's just like Cecil said, the place that seems to be the Demon Dragon Dungeon is by the sea.
I think it's best to do some preliminary research on the area before you go there.
I understand. I'm sorry to say that we just arrived here, but do you think Cecil and Iris can go to the holy woman's place? Aine and Rafilia, would you be able to escort them? It shouldn't take too long to get to the 'Delilira Labyrinth' if you take a horse.
「「「「 yes!
Cecil and Iris raised their hands in unison, and Aine and Rafilia's voices came back from the kitchen.
I asked Aine and Rafilia to come back once I dropped Cecil and Iris off, and I asked them to investigate the Adventurer's Guild. Aine might be able to get some information that won't be revealed. There's no need to rush.
Yes, I understand. It's important to investigate, but it's also important to have tea with everyone.
With that, Aine and Rafilia hand out tea to everyone.
It's tea time after breakfast.
I really want to make it a nap time afterwards, but .......
I rescued the mermaid girl, you know. I can't just ignore the rest, can I?
I have some things on my mind, so I'll check them out where I can.
What can I do to help you, my dear boy?
Come with me to see Mr. Dolgor, the Merchant. Mr. Dolgor is also a member of the Merchant's Guild, so he might be able to give you some information.
Yes, sir.
May I join you?
Letitia said.
'There aren't many merchants you can trust, are there? If you're the one Nagi-san relies on, I'd like to get acquainted with you.'
Okay. Okay, so Letitia's on my team.
Now the division of labour has been decided.
Me, Leticia, and Cutlass went to the merchant Dolgor-san's place to gather information.
Cecil, Iris, Aine and Rafilia went to Saintess's and met up with Rita. We'll get some information from the saint and, if possible, a story about the mermaid girl. Let's do this.
'I shouldn't have, I almost forgot. Lady Cutlass.
Iris clapped her hands together.
'My brother has asked me for a letter. Please show this to Mr. Dolgor.
What is it at ......? This,
'You went to take the knighthood exam with the help of the merchant, didn't you, Mr. Cutlass? I thought it would be a good idea to follow up on that.
Ha!
Cutlass's eyes widened.
'It was! I had the help of Mr. Dolgor!
Apparently, the merchant, Dolgor-san, makes it a hobby to help the young ones.
So when Cutlass was taking the 'knighthood qualification exam' too, he helped me change my address or let me accompany the caravan to the royal capital.
Actually, I should have gone to greet him earlier.
I can't let them know who ...... Cutlass is, you know. We decided not to tell anyone until we were ready.
After all, Cutlass is the hidden princess of the royal family, right?
Besides, now that she's aware of her gender, Cutlass is no longer the same girl she used to be. I thought it would be better to go to see Mr. Dolgor, with all the preparations in place and with me by his side to follow up, so that his true identity would not be revealed.
'This letter should vouch for Cutlass's position, I'm sure. I asked Iris to do it for me. 'Let's take this and go and say hello to Mr. Dolgor. I'll come with you.
'Thank you! 'I know,'
Well, what can I say?
For the sake of the invincible 'no work life', we want to make sure that we don't have to go backwards.
We'll have a cup of tea and a smoke, then we'll check our equipment and go to ...... when things settle down. Take it easy and don't rush.
「「「「「「 oh! 」」」」」」
So we started getting ready to go out: .......
'I'm sorry, Cutlass. Can you go out with me for a minute?
I whispered into Cutlass's ear. Then I beckoned him to me and led him down the hallway.
I had something I needed to do before I left.
'Of course it's fine, sir. What can I do for you, sir?
Cutlass also whispered back into my ear.
I took out a short spear from the bag of packages.
The Telescoping Spear Fetra that I bought in the hidden market. It's a reconstructed version of it.
I bought this at the market in the port city of Ilgafa. I was wondering if you would be willing to use it for Cutlass.
......
Cutlass looked at me with a glint in his eye.
You don't have to do that for me," he said, "you don't have to do that for me. If you have done that for me, I don't know what to do to repay you at ......!
Don't worry about it so much,
No.
Cutlass kneeled down in front of me.
I am Arujido's subordinate, or rather, slave. Whenever my master does anything to me, I have no choice but to repay him, even if it means returning the favor!
I'm in trouble myself if you do that. I have to 'readjust' this spear with Cutlass from now on.
...... Huh?
Cutlass's eyes widened. Come to think of it, I didn't mention it.
This time, we had to hastily create a quick structure in the market," he said. I need to stabilize the concept. This spear is for Cutlass, so I have to adjust it with Cutlass' magic. So...
''Also, of course. I hope so!
Cutlass tapped his chest with a pop.
It is natural for me to cooperate with the magic item that Arujidono enhanced, so it is only natural for me to help in its readjustment. In fact, I'd rather ask you to do it for me!
Okay.
You're awesome. Hey, Cutlass.
'Come on, come on, we don't have much time. Let's 'recalibrate' the spear before we go out!
With that, Cutlass pulled my hand away and went to his room.
─ Nagi Cutlass Letitia team── Nagi Cutlass Letitia team──.
One hour later
'huh, "Priestess of the Sea Dragon", a letter handwritten by the Lady Iris-Hafeumea?
This is Dolgor's mansion, which is always a great place to be at a recreational area.
I was shown into the parlor, and first handed a letter from Iris.
Cutlass and Leticia are sitting on the sofa, looking around restlessly.
You'll be surprised. This room is full of sea dragon goods. It's a room full of sea dragon goods.
''Hmmm. ...... My God! So, Cutlass is in the service of Master Iris!
Or, more accurately, Lady Iris's bodyguard, who is now part of my party.
I'm not lying.
Cutlass is a party companion and I'm superficially working as Iris's bodyguard.
''You know the story about the trouble Cutlass had with the 'knight qualification exam' he was supposed to take, Dolgor-san, right?
Yes, sir. And that there was a mass exodus of ghosts in the streets at the same time.
Cutlass was my party mate at the time, and he helped me solve the problem.
'What! But I heard that at that time a mysterious light fell from the sky and wiped out the ghosts!
Yes, I've had the chance to see it up close and personal.
It was like a blessing in disguise, I'm told.
Maybe it's a blessing from the heavenly dragon.
Exactly. Very!
Mr. Dolgor is excited.
He wouldn't believe me if I told him that Cecil and Rita had combined and used extreme magic. ......
'At that time, Lord Iris-sama came to the streets to receive the nobles who were coming to Ilgafa. It was at that time that Lord Iris recognized the work of Cutlass and said that he should be one of me.
...... Is that what it was about?
I'm one of those people who was saved by Nagi and Mr. Cutlass.
Leticia stood up and declared.
She glanced at me with a sideways glance, closed one eye--
Ghosts ...... skeletons ...... fought desperately against the flood of undead. If it wasn't for the support of Nagi-san and the others, I would have ...... lost my life.
'Oh ...... the Viscountesses such as that.'
Mr. Dolgor turned his gaze towards Cutlass.
'I'm so proud of you, Cutlass! I didn't know the boy I supported had the courage to stand up to the undead. That's something to look up to!
............
"Cutlass?
"Oh, no!
Cutlass looked up in a panic.
His cheeks and earlobes were bright red. He put his hands on his thighs and rubbed his knees together from earlier.
It's okay, sir. I'm fine.
Cutlass is waving his hand in an awkward, awe-inspiring manner.
When his fingertip touches my cheek...
What?
Cutlass squeezed his knees closed.
"Cutlass. Are you okay?
It's fine. I was on my way to ...... for a moment and had a happy moment ......
Cutlass looked at me with glazed eyes.
His shoulders were trembling. I think I can hear the sound of my heart thumping.
...... Yeah. I knew I shouldn't have 'readjusted' before I left.
I'm sure there's still some of my magic inside the cutlass. Every time you touch me, it trembles.
I'll follow up on that.
Cutlass said that he wanted to put protecting people before his position as a knight .......
I got up from my seat and bowed to Mr. Dolgor.
Cutlass saw that and did the same. Then she takes a deep breath and...
That's right. I've decided to join Souma-Nagi's party as a new way to go. I apologize to Dolgor for the help he gave me in taking the knight's exam: ......
Cutlass let out a long breath with his head bowed deeply.
He looks at me and his cheeks loosen as if he's embarrassed. Finally, he seems to have calmed down.
'Look up, Cutlass.'
Mr. Dolgor smiled serenely.
'Helping the young ones is a hobby of mine, you know. As long as you have found your way, that's all right.
Mr. Dolgor: "Mr. Dolgor: ......
But what's with the collar?
Mr. Dolgor pointed to the 'master-servant contract collar' around Cutlass' neck.
'This, this is for ...... me to enhance myself!
Cutlass touched his hand to the collar and declared.
'Make yourself (by making yourself a slave to Arujidono. (By having your skills reconfigured) to make you stronger. In order to elevate you (to the same position as all the other slaves as a worthy slave), we have made a master-servant contract!
I see. To make me stronger (in a difficult position). And make you a worthy knight. I see. If the "Priestess of the Sea Dragon" is involved, you must be right.
"Ha ha ha!
Cutlass and Mr. Dolgor looked at each other and smiled.
The only thing I want to do is to repay you for all the help you've given me, Dolgor-san. Do you have any requests for quests?
Quest?
Yes, Arujidono... no, I talked it over with Nagi-san and we decided to do it. That's the least I could do.
Cutlass looked at me.
I guess it's my turn to go from here. I'm also gathering information.
'We're indebted to Dolgor-san as well. If there is anything that the adventurers need help with there, we would like to be of help. What do you think?
Sure, there's a pressing issue: ......
Mr. Dolgor looked to the side as if in trouble.
'That's something that time will tell, you know. It's not particularly worth asking for a quest.'
What's the problem?
We get invited to the house quite often.
Soliciting?
It's the 'rookie training' solicitation.
""Rookie training!"
Me, Cutlass, and Leticia's voices are all together.
I've told the two of them that the new lord, Royeld, was treated badly in the port city of Irgafa in the 'rookie training'.
As for the person who brought it up, they are still investigating it in Irgafa.
But ...... why is there talk of 'rookie training' at a recreational area?
'Father!'
Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.
The door to the parlor opened and Dolgor's daughter appeared.
''I apologize for being a visitor. I'm the one soliciting for 'rookie training' again!
'Again, ...... even though I just turned it down the other day. ......
Dolgor-san sat up with a bitter face.
''I heard that there is a 'rookie training' for adventurers and noble servants, etc., using a large ship at the sea. I heard that the number of participants is insufficient, and the Merchant's Guild has also received a solicitation for ...... me, too, it seems I've been spotted.
By the sea?
'A secret program, I'm told. That's why the beach north of the resort is currently closed to people. ...... It's a pain in the ass.
''That's possible because the noble Lords of ...... are helping with the training, isn't it?
It's ......, so it's a messy story.
Sighs Dolgor-san.
''A number of people from the merchant guild also said that we should send a few people out to socialize. That's why I'll be talking to them as well. ......
...... "Newcomer Training" ......?
If it is the same as the one that took place in the port city of Ilgafa, then .......
The same people could be doing ...... the same kind of training.
............ good.
'Um. If you don't mind. Can I sneak a look at that solicitation, too?
I said.
"Yeah, you can go ahead.
Mr. Dolgor nodded easily.
'There's a landing at the top of the stairs where you can look into the front door. Why don't you take a look at it from there? I don't think I'll be able to talk to Ilis-sama's direct adventurers at ...... as expected, but I hope it's helpful.
Saying that, Mr. Dolgor sighed.
You must be really fed up with that 'recruitment'. That 'solicitation'.
That's why. I'd like you to join me. Cutlass, Letitia.
Of course, sir. I would like to see with my own eyes who is troubling Mr. Dolgor.
And I will not allow myself to overlook the fact that a nobleman is involved.
Cutlass and Leticia are also on board.
If the 'rookie training' that Dolgor-san says is taking place in the ocean, it might be an obstacle to finding ...... the 'Dungeon of the Demon Dragon'.
Besides, it's also possible that the mermaids Leticia and the others found - the sea sub-humans - are involved.
If that's the case, we need to find out for sure.
And so we were guided to the place where we were told about the "recruiters' training"...
At the same time, in the Maze of Saint Delilah, Cecil, Rita and Iris.
「「「「 Thanks for coming by! Saints! 」」」」
Cecil, Iris, Aine and Rafilia arrived at the Delilira Maze.
''Koto,''
Golems appeared from everywhere, as if they were waiting for the four of them to arrive. The golems moved a rock that blocked the entrance to the labyrinth and invited Cecil and the others inside.
The place they were led to was a small room with flowing water.
It must have been maintained for visitors. There are even fittings to connect the horses and a manger.
"Well then, the horses, follow me.
Cecil pulled his hoof and connected it to the wall hardware.
The horses that had been explained the situation in Nagi's "Life Negotiation 《Hood Negotiation》" are all doing as they are told with a look of understanding. These were the horses that had pulled the carriage for me on the previous trip. They must have gotten used to their master's 'strange adventures'.
'We will return later. Please give Aine and Rafilia-san a ride to town.
Buhiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!
Cecil pats me on the back, "Riddle me that! And so the horses snorted.
''Saints, did you even make a room like this for us?''
She must have been concerned about it. She must be a saint with a strong sense of responsibility.
That's a lesson in justice, isn't it?
At the words of Aine, Iris and Raphilia, the golems nodded with a 'kokku kokku kokku'.
Because she is such a saint, she couldn't leave the mermaid girl in distress unattended, which is why she brought her to the labyrinth like this.
When I think about it, Delilah is a saint and a necessary person in this land, Cecil and the others thought.
In the meantime, Iris-san and I will meet up with Rita-san.
Aine and Master, take care of yourself on the road.
With a snap, Cecil and Iris raise their hands and head to the back of the labyrinth.
After this, Aine and Rafilia are planning to return to the town after taking plenty of rest.
The two of them will be tasked with the Adventurer's Guild and shopping in the town.
''Nah-kun said we want to have a 'barbecue party' at the seaside on this trip.
'You told me about the 'seaside event' in the original world the other day.
'Huh? Didn't Rafilia-san find out when Nah-kun was about to fall asleep?
I don't care about the details. Anyway, this time I'd like to do 'I'd like to be able to wear sunscreen and my hand slips when I'm wearing sunscreen' and 'I'd like to be able to feel liberated and unprotected on a deserted island'.
'Yes. For that to happen, we need to get this case out of the way.
I'm motivated! Oh!
Aine and the others see Cecil and Iris off as they talk about these things.
And then Cecil and Iris, who went to the depths of the labyrinth...
Thank you, Rita. Dear Rita.
Cecil, little Ilis!
The middle of the Delilira Labyrinth.
Rita and Saint Delilira were in the pool room that Nagi and the others had easily cleared before.
d*mn it. I was so worried about you. We were worried.
Rubbing, Rita patted them both on the head.
'Cecil and Iris, did you notice anything unusual about them?'
It wasn't much. It was just that Nagi-sama and I invented a new magic.
It was supposed to be called 'Hisasshoumarou' but it ended up cutting a giant land snake into rounds, but I suppose it's nothing special.
...... You can tell me that story later.
Rita mumbled, holding her forehead.
Then she turned around and pointed toward the pool.
The pool was filled with clear water.
When we all attacked this labyrinth before, there was slime in the pool, but the only thing in there now was water.
There was a little mermaid girl there.
She's small in the corner of the pool, staring at you.
That's the mermaid girl that the saintly girl saved. I woke up last night, but ...... she seems to be in a panic and won't tell me anything. And I haven't been able to sleep since.
...... Is that right?
...... something must have been hard for you.
'Floating above her is the Spiritual Saint Delilira. I was going to greet you all, but I think I missed the ...... timing and now I have my back to you.
'I'm sorry, my saint! It's been a while!
'Do you remember? I'm Iris-Hafeumea, who created your great vision in a recreational area!
At the voice of Cecil and Iris, the spirit saint Delilira reacted with a pikun.
She shook her purple hair and looked over her shoulder at Cecil and the others.
''You haven't forgotten about ...... Delilira-san, have you?
'Of course! The saint is Nagi's precious friend!
How could I forget what my saint did for others even in death?
"I see. Okay, fine!
The saint Delilira hovers in the air and comes in front of Cecil and the others.
I'll tell you the identity of that mermaid child first. It is a sub-human who lives in the sea, and her race name is 'Mermaid'. They are a race that lives in caves and uninhabited islands by the sea and are not at all hostile to humans.
That's because you live in a different area.
That's right, Cecil. 'Yes, Cecil, you can live in both seawater and fresh water, but they don't come to the river at all. There's no point in trying to do that, you see. It would just change the environment around you and make it harder to live in.
Then the saint Delilira cut off her words.
'Miss Delilira met her because she heard a scream upstream. I reflexively jumped in and found her trapped on a rock at the end of the cave. I tried to save her, but the water was moving fast and the cave was very narrow, and I just couldn't get to her, and then Delilira got caught too.
I wonder what the cave is like back there?
'I'm sorry, Iris. Even my 'squire's bell' didn't get that far.
'No, Rita. I was wondering if it's possible that the cave leads to the ocean.
Iris nodded her head, a little thoughtfully.
''Then there might be a connection to that 'example place' that your brother is concerned about. We'll just have to ask her about it here.
What are you going to do about it, Mr. Iris?
...... Iris is of 'sea dragon blood'. Let's show him that and get closer.
With that, Iris unbuttoned her clothes with a snap.
'It's ...... strange. I never thought I'd have anything to be grateful for the 'Sea Dragon's Blood' that I always hated. I guess the reason I can think like this is because my brother remade everything about Iris, ......
With that, Iris dropped everything she was wearing at her feet.
She handed the dagger she was holding until the end to Rita and jumped into the pool without hesitation.
'Iris-chan! Mr. Iris. Are you okay?
Don't worry. Iris has excellent 'swimming skills'.
With that, Iris let her naked white body dance and swim out of the water with clean form.
On the other side of the pool, a mermaid girl, perhaps noticing the sound of the water, jolted and shook her body. She shook her scaly tail and tried to escape into the water.
Wait. "Wait. Iris, like you, has the blood of a sea creature.
Iris turned her back to the mermaid girl.
She swept her hair down the front of her body as she stood and swam, exposing her white neck and back.
The water in the pool was crystal clear. So the mermaid girl should have been able to see it.
The clean scales growing there, indicating that she has the 'blood of a sea dragon'.
''We're all from the same ocean....... Don't be afraid, okay?
............
The mermaid girl stopped moving.
She was up to her neck in water, staring at Iris.
'Did something scary happen to you?'
("Korea")
The mermaid girl nodded.
'Does the Master of Iris say that he will return you to the sea? Do you want that?
(mute)
You're scared about something, and you can't think about it right now?
("Korea")
'You didn't sleep yesterday or ...... maybe the whole time?'
(...... country)
If you can't sleep because of a scary thing, there is a way to ...... forget it for a while. Sleep, calm down ...... and then you can fight the scary thing. Would you like to try it?
(Sighs)
The mermaid girl looked at Iris with a twinkle in her eye.
'Rita-sama. Give that dagger to Iris.
Okay. I'm coming.
Huh?
With her signature 'water walking' ability, Rita comes to Iris.
Rita hands Iris a dagger and turns her gaze towards the mermaid girl. When she sees that the girl is frightened, she looks disappointed and goes back to the land.
(...... Rita-sama, I love little girls. You really wanted to hug her and calm her down.)
With that in mind, Iris approaches the mermaid girl.
The girl doesn't try to run away anymore. Breathing raggedly, she stares at Iris as she approaches.
...... now, take a good night's rest.
Iris took the girl's hand and placed the back of the dagger against her shoulder, lightly.
''Activated. 'Anshinto, Kokoro Yasumaru.' ......
......
The strength drained from the mermaid girl's body.
She rested her back on Iris' chest and began to breathe slowly.
'...... are you ......?'
The girl looked at Iris with vague eyes.
'My name is Iris-Hafeumea. I'm a former 'sea dragon priestess' and now I'm my brother's ...... love slave (Doroi).
Iris said and patted the girl on the back.
'Can you tell me your name, please?'
"Sonia.
The girl answered shortly.
Then, with reddish eyes, she looked straight into Iris's face──.
You see... Some scary people have attacked the house where she and her friends live. They chased her and her friends out of their home and took their place. Sonia escaped through a secret underground canal. Scary... ...... and...
Sonia's eyes were nearly closed.
She rested her back against Iris's chest and began to breathe peacefully in her sleep.
'...... You must have been nervous the whole time,'
Before he knew it, the spirit saint Delilira was floating above Iris' head.
'I had a scary moment at the sea, and I came running. I thought I was trapped on a rocky shore, and then a stranger brought me here. No wonder you're so nervous.
I'm glad my brother gave me that item.
Iris touched the "Anshinanmaru", still in its scabbard.
This sword (katana) has the effect of reducing the subject's worry. It doesn't solve their problems, but it does ease their mental burden. Iris has experienced this effect herself.
It really is ...... that my brother can magically help someone else.
Yeah.
Saint Delilira nodded.
Delilira thinks that her friend Letitia will become the king of this country. My friend Letitia, she thought, would be the king of this country, and her bumbling master, Nagi, would play the role of the chief of staff behind the scenes, and the world would be a more interesting place.
...... Can you tell me more about that story later?
Of course.
Saint Delilira (spirit) and Iris look at each other and smile.
'Iris, Lady Delilira, ...... be quiet for a moment.
Suddenly at their side, Rita said.
Before he knew it, he had returned with a 'water walk'. She carried Cecil on her back. Cecil and Rita put their fingers to their lips and posed 'shhhh' to Iris and Delilira.
...... I think Sonia the mermaid is ...... talking in her sleep about something.
Cecil tells them.
Rita remains stationary on the surface of the water and brings her beast ears close to the mouth of the mermaid, Sonia.
Sonia's lips move faintly and Rita's animal ears twitch.
After a while, Rita looks up.
'Sonia-chan, you keep saying the same thing. I'm not sure ...... what it means.
'What did he say? Dear Rita.
...... hmmm.
Rita cocked her head thoughtfully for a moment and then...
"'People of the New Recruit Training ...... scary' ......
He turned to Cecil, Iris, and Delilah and told them such things.
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
The next morning. You're at your vacation home in the sanctuary of Mischlila.
I'm afraid that's what happened.
As we transitioned to the recreation area, we were listening to Leticia and Cutlass' reports.
It was last night that we transitioned here.
One night later, and now Cecil, Aine, Iris, Raphilia, Leticia, and Cutlass are gathered in the living room of the villa. Rita should still be in the saint's labyrinth.
Letitia's report was brief and accurate.
Rita, Cutlass, and Letitia have taken care of Delilira (a golem with an entrance) and the mermaid (a mermaid) girl up the river.
Both the mermaid and the body of the demon found in the village - the "Horned Serpent" - are creatures of the sea and cannot be in the river.
And that for some reason there was not a single 'sea-related quest' in the Adventurer's Guild.
''It's kind of ...... spooky, isn't it?''
I agree.
Me, Letitia and Cutlass all nodded in unison.
Cecil and Iris also have a difficult look on their faces.
Aine and Rafilia stand up when they hear the sound of water boiling. It looks like they're going to make a cup of tea.
'What do you think, Cecil and Iris?'
I'd like to hear what the mermaid has to say. If you're a sub-human of the sea, you might have information about the Demon Dragon's Dungeon, which is located by the sea.
'Yes. If you're a sub-human associated with the sea, you might listen to what Iris has to say.
...... You have a point. Either way, we can't just leave that mermaid girl alone like this.
I think I should at least listen to what they have to say while I return them to the sea.
Besides, Iris has the blood of a sea dragon. To the sub-humans of the sea, she is the descendant of a god-like being. The current Iris might be able to communicate with the mermaid girl. If Cecil is with her, we can manage any magic-related problems.
I guess I should have the two of them go to the Saintess first.
Besides, the sea dragon Kerkator said that the sea is noisy lately. This might have something to do with what happened.
It's just like Cecil said, the place that seems to be the Demon Dragon Dungeon is by the sea.
I think it's best to do some preliminary research on the area before you go there.
I understand. I'm sorry to say that we just arrived here, but do you think Cecil and Iris can go to the holy woman's place? Aine and Rafilia, would you be able to escort them? It shouldn't take too long to get to the 'Delilira Labyrinth' if you take a horse.
「「「「 yes!
Cecil and Iris raised their hands in unison, and Aine and Rafilia's voices came back from the kitchen.
I asked Aine and Rafilia to come back once I dropped Cecil and Iris off, and I asked them to investigate the Adventurer's Guild. Aine might be able to get some information that won't be revealed. There's no need to rush.
Yes, I understand. It's important to investigate, but it's also important to have tea with everyone.
With that, Aine and Rafilia hand out tea to everyone.
It's tea time after breakfast.
I really want to make it a nap time afterwards, but .......
I rescued the mermaid girl, you know. I can't just ignore the rest, can I?
I have some things on my mind, so I'll check them out where I can.
What can I do to help you, my dear boy?
Come with me to see Mr. Dolgor, the Merchant. Mr. Dolgor is also a member of the Merchant's Guild, so he might be able to give you some information.
Yes, sir.
May I join you?
Letitia said.
'There aren't many merchants you can trust, are there? If you're the one Nagi-san relies on, I'd like to get acquainted with you.'
Okay. Okay, so Letitia's on my team.
Now the division of labour has been decided.
Me, Leticia, and Cutlass went to the merchant Dolgor-san's place to gather information.
Cecil, Iris, Aine and Rafilia went to Saintess's and met up with Rita. We'll get some information from the saint and, if possible, a story about the mermaid girl. Let's do this.
'I shouldn't have, I almost forgot. Lady Cutlass.
Iris clapped her hands together.
'My brother has asked me for a letter. Please show this to Mr. Dolgor.
What is it at ......? This,
'You went to take the knighthood exam with the help of the merchant, didn't you, Mr. Cutlass? I thought it would be a good idea to follow up on that.
Ha!
Cutlass's eyes widened.
'It was! I had the help of Mr. Dolgor!
Apparently, the merchant, Dolgor-san, makes it a hobby to help the young ones.
So when Cutlass was taking the 'knighthood qualification exam' too, he helped me change my address or let me accompany the caravan to the royal capital.
Actually, I should have gone to greet him earlier.
I can't let them know who ...... Cutlass is, you know. We decided not to tell anyone until we were ready.
After all, Cutlass is the hidden princess of the royal family, right?
Besides, now that she's aware of her gender, Cutlass is no longer the same girl she used to be. I thought it would be better to go to see Mr. Dolgor, with all the preparations in place and with me by his side to follow up, so that his true identity would not be revealed.
'This letter should vouch for Cutlass's position, I'm sure. I asked Iris to do it for me. 'Let's take this and go and say hello to Mr. Dolgor. I'll come with you.
'Thank you! 'I know,'
Well, what can I say?
For the sake of the invincible 'no work life', we want to make sure that we don't have to go backwards.
We'll have a cup of tea and a smoke, then we'll check our equipment and go to ...... when things settle down. Take it easy and don't rush.
「「「「「「 oh! 」」」」」」
So we started getting ready to go out: .......
'I'm sorry, Cutlass. Can you go out with me for a minute?
I whispered into Cutlass's ear. Then I beckoned him to me and led him down the hallway.
I had something I needed to do before I left.
'Of course it's fine, sir. What can I do for you, sir?
Cutlass also whispered back into my ear.
I took out a short spear from the bag of packages.
The Telescoping Spear Fetra that I bought in the hidden market. It's a reconstructed version of it.
I bought this at the market in the port city of Ilgafa. I was wondering if you would be willing to use it for Cutlass.
......
Cutlass looked at me with a glint in his eye.
You don't have to do that for me," he said, "you don't have to do that for me. If you have done that for me, I don't know what to do to repay you at ......!
Don't worry about it so much,
No.
Cutlass kneeled down in front of me.
I am Arujido's subordinate, or rather, slave. Whenever my master does anything to me, I have no choice but to repay him, even if it means returning the favor!
I'm in trouble myself if you do that. I have to 'readjust' this spear with Cutlass from now on.
...... Huh?
Cutlass's eyes widened. Come to think of it, I didn't mention it.
This time, we had to hastily create a quick structure in the market," he said. I need to stabilize the concept. This spear is for Cutlass, so I have to adjust it with Cutlass' magic. So...
''Also, of course. I hope so!
Cutlass tapped his chest with a pop.
It is natural for me to cooperate with the magic item that Arujidono enhanced, so it is only natural for me to help in its readjustment. In fact, I'd rather ask you to do it for me!
Okay.
You're awesome. Hey, Cutlass.
'Come on, come on, we don't have much time. Let's 'recalibrate' the spear before we go out!
With that, Cutlass pulled my hand away and went to his room.
─ Nagi Cutlass Letitia team── Nagi Cutlass Letitia team──.
One hour later
'huh, "Priestess of the Sea Dragon", a letter handwritten by the Lady Iris-Hafeumea?
This is Dolgor's mansion, which is always a great place to be at a recreational area.
I was shown into the parlor, and first handed a letter from Iris.
Cutlass and Leticia are sitting on the sofa, looking around restlessly.
You'll be surprised. This room is full of sea dragon goods. It's a room full of sea dragon goods.
''Hmmm. ...... My God! So, Cutlass is in the service of Master Iris!
Or, more accurately, Lady Iris's bodyguard, who is now part of my party.
I'm not lying.
Cutlass is a party companion and I'm superficially working as Iris's bodyguard.
''You know the story about the trouble Cutlass had with the 'knight qualification exam' he was supposed to take, Dolgor-san, right?
Yes, sir. And that there was a mass exodus of ghosts in the streets at the same time.
Cutlass was my party mate at the time, and he helped me solve the problem.
'What! But I heard that at that time a mysterious light fell from the sky and wiped out the ghosts!
Yes, I've had the chance to see it up close and personal.
It was like a blessing in disguise, I'm told.
Maybe it's a blessing from the heavenly dragon.
Exactly. Very!
Mr. Dolgor is excited.
He wouldn't believe me if I told him that Cecil and Rita had combined and used extreme magic. ......
'At that time, Lord Iris-sama came to the streets to receive the nobles who were coming to Ilgafa. It was at that time that Lord Iris recognized the work of Cutlass and said that he should be one of me.
...... Is that what it was about?
I'm one of those people who was saved by Nagi and Mr. Cutlass.
Leticia stood up and declared.
She glanced at me with a sideways glance, closed one eye--
Ghosts ...... skeletons ...... fought desperately against the flood of undead. If it wasn't for the support of Nagi-san and the others, I would have ...... lost my life.
'Oh ...... the Viscountesses such as that.'
Mr. Dolgor turned his gaze towards Cutlass.
'I'm so proud of you, Cutlass! I didn't know the boy I supported had the courage to stand up to the undead. That's something to look up to!
............
"Cutlass?
"Oh, no!
Cutlass looked up in a panic.
His cheeks and earlobes were bright red. He put his hands on his thighs and rubbed his knees together from earlier.
It's okay, sir. I'm fine.
Cutlass is waving his hand in an awkward, awe-inspiring manner.
When his fingertip touches my cheek...
What?
Cutlass squeezed his knees closed.
"Cutlass. Are you okay?
It's fine. I was on my way to ...... for a moment and had a happy moment ......
Cutlass looked at me with glazed eyes.
His shoulders were trembling. I think I can hear the sound of my heart thumping.
...... Yeah. I knew I shouldn't have 'readjusted' before I left.
I'm sure there's still some of my magic inside the cutlass. Every time you touch me, it trembles.
I'll follow up on that.
Cutlass said that he wanted to put protecting people before his position as a knight .......
I got up from my seat and bowed to Mr. Dolgor.
Cutlass saw that and did the same. Then she takes a deep breath and...
That's right. I've decided to join Souma-Nagi's party as a new way to go. I apologize to Dolgor for the help he gave me in taking the knight's exam: ......
Cutlass let out a long breath with his head bowed deeply.
He looks at me and his cheeks loosen as if he's embarrassed. Finally, he seems to have calmed down.
'Look up, Cutlass.'
Mr. Dolgor smiled serenely.
'Helping the young ones is a hobby of mine, you know. As long as you have found your way, that's all right.
Mr. Dolgor: "Mr. Dolgor: ......
But what's with the collar?
Mr. Dolgor pointed to the 'master-servant contract collar' around Cutlass' neck.
'This, this is for ...... me to enhance myself!
Cutlass touched his hand to the collar and declared.
'Make yourself (by making yourself a slave to Arujidono. (By having your skills reconfigured) to make you stronger. In order to elevate you (to the same position as all the other slaves as a worthy slave), we have made a master-servant contract!
I see. To make me stronger (in a difficult position). And make you a worthy knight. I see. If the "Priestess of the Sea Dragon" is involved, you must be right.
"Ha ha ha!
Cutlass and Mr. Dolgor looked at each other and smiled.
The only thing I want to do is to repay you for all the help you've given me, Dolgor-san. Do you have any requests for quests?
Quest?
Yes, Arujidono... no, I talked it over with Nagi-san and we decided to do it. That's the least I could do.
Cutlass looked at me.
I guess it's my turn to go from here. I'm also gathering information.
'We're indebted to Dolgor-san as well. If there is anything that the adventurers need help with there, we would like to be of help. What do you think?
Sure, there's a pressing issue: ......
Mr. Dolgor looked to the side as if in trouble.
'That's something that time will tell, you know. It's not particularly worth asking for a quest.'
What's the problem?
We get invited to the house quite often.
Soliciting?
It's the 'rookie training' solicitation.
""Rookie training!"
Me, Cutlass, and Leticia's voices are all together.
I've told the two of them that the new lord, Royeld, was treated badly in the port city of Irgafa in the 'rookie training'.
As for the person who brought it up, they are still investigating it in Irgafa.
But ...... why is there talk of 'rookie training' at a recreational area?
'Father!'
Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.
The door to the parlor opened and Dolgor's daughter appeared.
''I apologize for being a visitor. I'm the one soliciting for 'rookie training' again!
'Again, ...... even though I just turned it down the other day. ......
Dolgor-san sat up with a bitter face.
''I heard that there is a 'rookie training' for adventurers and noble servants, etc., using a large ship at the sea. I heard that the number of participants is insufficient, and the Merchant's Guild has also received a solicitation for ...... me, too, it seems I've been spotted.
By the sea?
'A secret program, I'm told. That's why the beach north of the resort is currently closed to people. ...... It's a pain in the ass.
''That's possible because the noble Lords of ...... are helping with the training, isn't it?
It's ......, so it's a messy story.
Sighs Dolgor-san.
''A number of people from the merchant guild also said that we should send a few people out to socialize. That's why I'll be talking to them as well. ......
...... "Newcomer Training" ......?
If it is the same as the one that took place in the port city of Ilgafa, then .......
The same people could be doing ...... the same kind of training.
............ good.
'Um. If you don't mind. Can I sneak a look at that solicitation, too?
I said.
"Yeah, you can go ahead.
Mr. Dolgor nodded easily.
'There's a landing at the top of the stairs where you can look into the front door. Why don't you take a look at it from there? I don't think I'll be able to talk to Ilis-sama's direct adventurers at ...... as expected, but I hope it's helpful.
Saying that, Mr. Dolgor sighed.
You must be really fed up with that 'recruitment'. That 'solicitation'.
That's why. I'd like you to join me. Cutlass, Letitia.
Of course, sir. I would like to see with my own eyes who is troubling Mr. Dolgor.
And I will not allow myself to overlook the fact that a nobleman is involved.
Cutlass and Leticia are also on board.
If the 'rookie training' that Dolgor-san says is taking place in the ocean, it might be an obstacle to finding ...... the 'Dungeon of the Demon Dragon'.
Besides, it's also possible that the mermaids Leticia and the others found - the sea sub-humans - are involved.
If that's the case, we need to find out for sure.
And so we were guided to the place where we were told about the "recruiters' training"...
At the same time, in the Maze of Saint Delilah, Cecil, Rita and Iris.
「「「「 Thanks for coming by! Saints! 」」」」
Cecil, Iris, Aine and Rafilia arrived at the Delilira Maze.
''Koto,''
Golems appeared from everywhere, as if they were waiting for the four of them to arrive. The golems moved a rock that blocked the entrance to the labyrinth and invited Cecil and the others inside.
The place they were led to was a small room with flowing water.
It must have been maintained for visitors. There are even fittings to connect the horses and a manger.
"Well then, the horses, follow me.
Cecil pulled his hoof and connected it to the wall hardware.
The horses that had been explained the situation in Nagi's "Life Negotiation 《Hood Negotiation》" are all doing as they are told with a look of understanding. These were the horses that had pulled the carriage for me on the previous trip. They must have gotten used to their master's 'strange adventures'.
'We will return later. Please give Aine and Rafilia-san a ride to town.
Buhiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!
Cecil pats me on the back, "Riddle me that! And so the horses snorted.
''Saints, did you even make a room like this for us?''
She must have been concerned about it. She must be a saint with a strong sense of responsibility.
That's a lesson in justice, isn't it?
At the words of Aine, Iris and Raphilia, the golems nodded with a 'kokku kokku kokku'.
Because she is such a saint, she couldn't leave the mermaid girl in distress unattended, which is why she brought her to the labyrinth like this.
When I think about it, Delilah is a saint and a necessary person in this land, Cecil and the others thought.
In the meantime, Iris-san and I will meet up with Rita-san.
Aine and Master, take care of yourself on the road.
With a snap, Cecil and Iris raise their hands and head to the back of the labyrinth.
After this, Aine and Rafilia are planning to return to the town after taking plenty of rest.
The two of them will be tasked with the Adventurer's Guild and shopping in the town.
''Nah-kun said we want to have a 'barbecue party' at the seaside on this trip.
'You told me about the 'seaside event' in the original world the other day.
'Huh? Didn't Rafilia-san find out when Nah-kun was about to fall asleep?
I don't care about the details. Anyway, this time I'd like to do 'I'd like to be able to wear sunscreen and my hand slips when I'm wearing sunscreen' and 'I'd like to be able to feel liberated and unprotected on a deserted island'.
'Yes. For that to happen, we need to get this case out of the way.
I'm motivated! Oh!
Aine and the others see Cecil and Iris off as they talk about these things.
And then Cecil and Iris, who went to the depths of the labyrinth...
Thank you, Rita. Dear Rita.
Cecil, little Ilis!
The middle of the Delilira Labyrinth.
Rita and Saint Delilira were in the pool room that Nagi and the others had easily cleared before.
d*mn it. I was so worried about you. We were worried.
Rubbing, Rita patted them both on the head.
'Cecil and Iris, did you notice anything unusual about them?'
It wasn't much. It was just that Nagi-sama and I invented a new magic.
It was supposed to be called 'Hisasshoumarou' but it ended up cutting a giant land snake into rounds, but I suppose it's nothing special.
...... You can tell me that story later.
Rita mumbled, holding her forehead.
Then she turned around and pointed toward the pool.
The pool was filled with clear water.
When we all attacked this labyrinth before, there was slime in the pool, but the only thing in there now was water.
There was a little mermaid girl there.
She's small in the corner of the pool, staring at you.
That's the mermaid girl that the saintly girl saved. I woke up last night, but ...... she seems to be in a panic and won't tell me anything. And I haven't been able to sleep since.
...... Is that right?
...... something must have been hard for you.
'Floating above her is the Spiritual Saint Delilira. I was going to greet you all, but I think I missed the ...... timing and now I have my back to you.
'I'm sorry, my saint! It's been a while!
'Do you remember? I'm Iris-Hafeumea, who created your great vision in a recreational area!
At the voice of Cecil and Iris, the spirit saint Delilira reacted with a pikun.
She shook her purple hair and looked over her shoulder at Cecil and the others.
''You haven't forgotten about ...... Delilira-san, have you?
'Of course! The saint is Nagi's precious friend!
How could I forget what my saint did for others even in death?
"I see. Okay, fine!
The saint Delilira hovers in the air and comes in front of Cecil and the others.
I'll tell you the identity of that mermaid child first. It is a sub-human who lives in the sea, and her race name is 'Mermaid'. They are a race that lives in caves and uninhabited islands by the sea and are not at all hostile to humans.
That's because you live in a different area.
That's right, Cecil. 'Yes, Cecil, you can live in both seawater and fresh water, but they don't come to the river at all. There's no point in trying to do that, you see. It would just change the environment around you and make it harder to live in.
Then the saint Delilira cut off her words.
'Miss Delilira met her because she heard a scream upstream. I reflexively jumped in and found her trapped on a rock at the end of the cave. I tried to save her, but the water was moving fast and the cave was very narrow, and I just couldn't get to her, and then Delilira got caught too.
I wonder what the cave is like back there?
'I'm sorry, Iris. Even my 'squire's bell' didn't get that far.
'No, Rita. I was wondering if it's possible that the cave leads to the ocean.
Iris nodded her head, a little thoughtfully.
''Then there might be a connection to that 'example place' that your brother is concerned about. We'll just have to ask her about it here.
What are you going to do about it, Mr. Iris?
...... Iris is of 'sea dragon blood'. Let's show him that and get closer.
With that, Iris unbuttoned her clothes with a snap.
'It's ...... strange. I never thought I'd have anything to be grateful for the 'Sea Dragon's Blood' that I always hated. I guess the reason I can think like this is because my brother remade everything about Iris, ......
With that, Iris dropped everything she was wearing at her feet.
She handed the dagger she was holding until the end to Rita and jumped into the pool without hesitation.
'Iris-chan! Mr. Iris. Are you okay?
Don't worry. Iris has excellent 'swimming skills'.
With that, Iris let her naked white body dance and swim out of the water with clean form.
On the other side of the pool, a mermaid girl, perhaps noticing the sound of the water, jolted and shook her body. She shook her scaly tail and tried to escape into the water.
Wait. "Wait. Iris, like you, has the blood of a sea creature.
Iris turned her back to the mermaid girl.
She swept her hair down the front of her body as she stood and swam, exposing her white neck and back.
The water in the pool was crystal clear. So the mermaid girl should have been able to see it.
The clean scales growing there, indicating that she has the 'blood of a sea dragon'.
''We're all from the same ocean....... Don't be afraid, okay?
............
The mermaid girl stopped moving.
She was up to her neck in water, staring at Iris.
'Did something scary happen to you?'
("Korea")
The mermaid girl nodded.
'Does the Master of Iris say that he will return you to the sea? Do you want that?
(mute)
You're scared about something, and you can't think about it right now?
("Korea")
'You didn't sleep yesterday or ...... maybe the whole time?'
(...... country)
If you can't sleep because of a scary thing, there is a way to ...... forget it for a while. Sleep, calm down ...... and then you can fight the scary thing. Would you like to try it?
(Sighs)
The mermaid girl looked at Iris with a twinkle in her eye.
'Rita-sama. Give that dagger to Iris.
Okay. I'm coming.
Huh?
With her signature 'water walking' ability, Rita comes to Iris.
Rita hands Iris a dagger and turns her gaze towards the mermaid girl. When she sees that the girl is frightened, she looks disappointed and goes back to the land.
(...... Rita-sama, I love little girls. You really wanted to hug her and calm her down.)
With that in mind, Iris approaches the mermaid girl.
The girl doesn't try to run away anymore. Breathing raggedly, she stares at Iris as she approaches.
...... now, take a good night's rest.
Iris took the girl's hand and placed the back of the dagger against her shoulder, lightly.
''Activated. 'Anshinto, Kokoro Yasumaru.' ......
......
The strength drained from the mermaid girl's body.
She rested her back on Iris' chest and began to breathe slowly.
'...... are you ......?'
The girl looked at Iris with vague eyes.
'My name is Iris-Hafeumea. I'm a former 'sea dragon priestess' and now I'm my brother's ...... love slave (Doroi).
Iris said and patted the girl on the back.
'Can you tell me your name, please?'
"Sonia.
The girl answered shortly.
Then, with reddish eyes, she looked straight into Iris's face──.
You see... Some scary people have attacked the house where she and her friends live. They chased her and her friends out of their home and took their place. Sonia escaped through a secret underground canal. Scary... ...... and...
Sonia's eyes were nearly closed.
She rested her back against Iris's chest and began to breathe peacefully in her sleep.
'...... You must have been nervous the whole time,'
Before he knew it, the spirit saint Delilira was floating above Iris' head.
'I had a scary moment at the sea, and I came running. I thought I was trapped on a rocky shore, and then a stranger brought me here. No wonder you're so nervous.
I'm glad my brother gave me that item.
Iris touched the "Anshinanmaru", still in its scabbard.
This sword (katana) has the effect of reducing the subject's worry. It doesn't solve their problems, but it does ease their mental burden. Iris has experienced this effect herself.
It really is ...... that my brother can magically help someone else.
Yeah.
Saint Delilira nodded.
Delilira thinks that her friend Letitia will become the king of this country. My friend Letitia, she thought, would be the king of this country, and her bumbling master, Nagi, would play the role of the chief of staff behind the scenes, and the world would be a more interesting place.
...... Can you tell me more about that story later?
Of course.
Saint Delilira (spirit) and Iris look at each other and smile.
'Iris, Lady Delilira, ...... be quiet for a moment.
Suddenly at their side, Rita said.
Before he knew it, he had returned with a 'water walk'. She carried Cecil on her back. Cecil and Rita put their fingers to their lips and posed 'shhhh' to Iris and Delilira.
...... I think Sonia the mermaid is ...... talking in her sleep about something.
Cecil tells them.
Rita remains stationary on the surface of the water and brings her beast ears close to the mouth of the mermaid, Sonia.
Sonia's lips move faintly and Rita's animal ears twitch.
After a while, Rita looks up.
'Sonia-chan, you keep saying the same thing. I'm not sure ...... what it means.
'What did he say? Dear Rita.
...... hmmm.
Rita cocked her head thoughtfully for a moment and then...
"'People of the New Recruit Training ...... scary' ......
He turned to Cecil, Iris, and Delilah and told them such things.
The next morning. You're at your vacation home in the sanctuary of Mischlila.I'm afraid that's what happened.As we transitioned to the recreation area, we were listening to Leticia and Cutlass' reports.It was last night that we transitioned here.One night later, and now Cecil, Aine, Iris, Raphilia, Leticia, and Cutlass are gathered in the living room of the villa. Rita should still be in the saint's labyrinth.Letitia's report was brief and accurate.Rita, Cutlass, and Letitia have taken care of Delilira a golem with an entrance and the mermaid a mermaid girl up the river.Both the mermaid and the body of the demon found in the village - the "Horned Serpent" - are creatures of the sea and cannot be in the river.And that for some reason there was not a single 'sea-related quest' in the Adventurer's Guild.''It's kind of ...... spooky, isn't it?''I agree.Me, Letitia and Cutlass all nodded in unison.Cecil and Iris also have a difficult look on their faces.Aine and Rafilia stand up when they hear the sound of water boiling. It looks like they're going to make a cup of tea.'What do you think, Cecil and Iris?'I'd like to hear what the mermaid has to say. If you're a sub-human of the sea, you might have information about the Demon Dragon's Dungeon, which is located by the sea.'Yes. If you're a sub-human associated with the sea, you might listen to what Iris has to say....... You have a point. Either way, we can't just leave that mermaid girl alone like this.I think I should at least listen to what they have to say while I return them to the sea.Besides, Iris has the blood of a sea dragon. To the sub-humans of the sea, she is the descendant of a god-like being. The current Iris might be able to communicate with the mermaid girl. If Cecil is with her, we can manage any magic-related problems.I guess I should have the two of them go to the Saintess first.Besides, the sea dragon Kerkator said that the sea is noisy lately. This might have something to do with what happened.It's just like Cecil said, the place that seems to be the Demon Dragon Dungeon is by the sea.I think it's best to do some preliminary research on the area before you go there.I understand. I'm sorry to say that we just arrived here, but do you think Cecil and Iris can go to the holy woman's place? Aine and Rafilia, would you be able to escort them?It shouldn't take too long to get to the 'Delilira Labyrinth' if you take a horse. yes!Cecil and Iris raised their hands in unison, and Aine and Rafilia's voices came back from the kitchen.I asked Aine and Rafilia to come back once I dropped Cecil and Iris off, and I asked them to investigate the Adventurer's Guild. Aine might be able to get some information that won't be revealed. There's no need to rush.Yes, I understand. It's important to investigate, but it's also important to have tea with everyone.With that, Aine and Rafilia hand out tea to everyone.It's tea time after breakfast.I really want to make it a nap time afterwards, but .......I rescued the mermaid girl, you know. I can't just ignore the rest, can I?I have some things on my mind, so I'll check them out where I can.What can I do to help you, my dear boy?Come with me to see Mr. Dolgor, the Merchant. Mr. Dolgor is also a member of the Merchant's Guild, so he might be able to give you some information.Yes, sir.May I join you?Letitia said.'There aren't many merchants you can trust, are there? If you're the one Nagi-san relies on, I'd like to get acquainted with you.'Okay. Okay, so Letitia's on my team.Now the division of labour has been decided.Me, Leticia, and Cutlass went to the merchant Dolgor-san's place to gather information.Cecil, Iris, Aine and Rafilia went to Saintess's and met up with Rita. We'll get some information from the saint and, if possible, a story about the mermaid girl. Let's do this.'I shouldn't have, I almost forgot. Lady Cutlass.Iris clapped her hands together.'My brother has asked me for a letter. Please show this to Mr. Dolgor.What is it at ......?This,'You went to take the knighthood exam with the help of the merchant, didn't you, Mr. Cutlass?I thought it would be a good idea to follow up on that.Ha!Cutlass's eyes widened.'It was!I had the help of Mr. Dolgor!Apparently, the merchant, Dolgor-san, makes it a hobby to help the young ones.So when Cutlass was taking the 'knighthood qualification exam' too, he helped me change my address or let me accompany the caravan to the royal capital.Actually, I should have gone to greet him earlier.I can't let them know who ...... Cutlass is, you know. We decided not to tell anyone until we were ready.After all, Cutlass is the hidden princess of the royal family, right?Besides, now that she's aware of her gender, Cutlass is no longer the same girl she used to be. I thought it would be better to go to see Mr. Dolgor, with all the preparations in place and with me by his side to follow up, so that his true identity would not be revealed.'This letter should vouch for Cutlass's position, I'm sure. I asked Iris to do it for me. 'Let's take this and go and say hello to Mr. Dolgor. I'll come with you.'Thank you!'I know,'Well, what can I say?For the sake of the invincible 'no work life', we want to make sure that we don't have to go backwards.We'll have a cup of tea and a smoke, then we'll check our equipment and go to ...... when things settle down. Take it easy and don't rush. oh! So we started getting ready to go out: .......'I'm sorry, Cutlass. Can you go out with me for a minute?I whispered into Cutlass's ear. Then I beckoned him to me and led him down the hallway.I had something I needed to do before I left.'Of course it's fine, sir. What can I do for you, sir?Cutlass also whispered back into my ear.I took out a short spear from the bag of packages.The Telescoping Spear Fetra that I bought in the hidden market. It's a reconstructed version of it.I bought this at the market in the port city of Ilgafa. I was wondering if you would be willing to use it for Cutlass.......Cutlass looked at me with a glint in his eye.You don't have to do that for me," he said, "you don't have to do that for me. If you have done that for me, I don't know what to do to repay you at ......!Don't worry about it so much,No.Cutlass kneeled down in front of me.I am Arujido's subordinate, or rather, slave. Whenever my master does anything to me, I have no choice but to repay him, even if it means returning the favor!I'm in trouble myself if you do that. I have to 'readjust' this spear with Cutlass from now on....... Huh?Cutlass's eyes widened. Come to think of it, I didn't mention it.This time, we had to hastily create a quick structure in the market," he said. I need to stabilize the concept. This spear is for Cutlass, so I have to adjust it with Cutlass' magic. So...''Also, of course. I hope so!Cutlass tapped his chest with a pop.It is natural for me to cooperate with the magic item that Arujidono enhanced, so it is only natural for me to help in its readjustment. In fact, I'd rather ask you to do it for me!Okay.You're awesome. Hey, Cutlass.'Come on, come on, we don't have much time. Let's 'recalibrate' the spear before we go out!With that, Cutlass pulled my hand away and went to his room. Nagi Cutlass Letitia team Nagi Cutlass Letitia team.One hour later'huh, "Priestess of the Sea Dragon", a letter handwritten by the Lady Iris-Hafeumea?This is Dolgor's mansion, which is always a great place to be at a recreational area.I was shown into the parlor, and first handed a letter from Iris.Cutlass and Leticia are sitting on the sofa, looking around restlessly.You'll be surprised. This room is full of sea dragon goods. It's a room full of sea dragon goods.''Hmmm. ...... My God!So, Cutlass is in the service of Master Iris!Or, more accurately, Lady Iris's bodyguard, who is now part of my party.I'm not lying.Cutlass is a party companion and I'm superficially working as Iris's bodyguard.''You know the story about the trouble Cutlass had with the 'knight qualification exam' he was supposed to take, Dolgor-san, right?Yes, sir. And that there was a mass exodus of ghosts in the streets at the same time.Cutlass was my party mate at the time, and he helped me solve the problem.'What!But I heard that at that time a mysterious light fell from the sky and wiped out the ghosts!Yes, I've had the chance to see it up close and personal.It was like a blessing in disguise, I'm told.Maybe it's a blessing from the heavenly dragon.Exactly. Very!Mr. Dolgor is excited.He wouldn't believe me if I told him that Cecil and Rita had combined and used extreme magic. ......'At that time, Lord Iris-sama came to the streets to receive the nobles who were coming to Ilgafa. It was at that time that Lord Iris recognized the work of Cutlass and said that he should be one of me....... Is that what it was about?I'm one of those people who was saved by Nagi and Mr. Cutlass.Leticia stood up and declared.She glanced at me with a sideways glance, closed one eye--Ghosts ...... skeletons ...... fought desperately against the flood of undead. If it wasn't for the support of Nagi-san and the others, I would have ...... lost my life.'Oh ...... the Viscountesses such as that.'Mr. Dolgor turned his gaze towards Cutlass.'I'm so proud of you, Cutlass!I didn't know the boy I supported had the courage to stand up to the undead. That's something to look up to!............"Cutlass?"Oh, no!Cutlass looked up in a panic.His cheeks and earlobes were bright red. He put his hands on his thighs and rubbed his knees together from earlier.It's okay, sir. I'm fine.Cutlass is waving his hand in an awkward, awe-inspiring manner.When his fingertip touches my cheek...What?Cutlass squeezed his knees closed."Cutlass. Are you okay?It's fine. I was on my way to ...... for a moment and had a happy moment ......Cutlass looked at me with glazed eyes.His shoulders were trembling. I think I can hear the sound of my heart thumping....... Yeah. I knew I shouldn't have 'readjusted' before I left.I'm sure there's still some of my magic inside the cutlass. Every time you touch me, it trembles.I'll follow up on that.Cutlass said that he wanted to put protecting people before his position as a knight .......I got up from my seat and bowed to Mr. Dolgor.Cutlass saw that and did the same. Then she takes a deep breath and...That's right. I've decided to join Souma-Nagi's party as a new way to go. I apologize to Dolgor for the help he gave me in taking the knight's exam: ......Cutlass let out a long breath with his head bowed deeply.He looks at me and his cheeks loosen as if he's embarrassed. Finally, he seems to have calmed down.'Look up, Cutlass.'Mr. Dolgor smiled serenely.'Helping the young ones is a hobby of mine, you know. As long as you have found your way, that's all right.Mr. Dolgor: "Mr. Dolgor: ......But what's with the collar?Mr. Dolgor pointed to the 'master-servant contract collar' around Cutlass' neck.'This, this is for ...... me to enhance myself!Cutlass touched his hand to the collar and declared.'Make yourself by making yourself a slave to Arujidono. By having your skills reconfigured to make you stronger. In order to elevate you to the same position as all the other slaves as a worthy slave, we have made a master-servant contract!I see. To make me stronger in a difficult position. And make you a worthy knight. I see. If the "Priestess of the Sea Dragon" is involved, you must be right."Ha ha ha!Cutlass and Mr. Dolgor looked at each other and smiled.The only thing I want to do is to repay you for all the help you've given me, Dolgor-san. Do you have any requests for quests?Quest?Yes, Arujidono... no, I talked it over with Nagi-san and we decided to do it. That's the least I could do.Cutlass looked at me.I guess it's my turn to go from here. I'm also gathering information.'We're indebted to Dolgor-san as well. If there is anything that the adventurers need help with there, we would like to be of help. What do you think?Sure, there's a pressing issue: ......Mr. Dolgor looked to the side as if in trouble.'That's something that time will tell, you know. It's not particularly worth asking for a quest.'What's the problem?We get invited to the house quite often.Soliciting?It's the 'rookie training' solicitation.""Rookie training!"Me, Cutlass, and Leticia's voices are all together.I've told the two of them that the new lord, Royeld, was treated badly in the port city of Irgafa in the 'rookie training'.As for the person who brought it up, they are still investigating it in Irgafa.But ...... why is there talk of 'rookie training' at a recreational area?'Father!'Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.The door to the parlor opened and Dolgor's daughter appeared.''I apologize for being a visitor. I'm the one soliciting for 'rookie training' again!'Again, ...... even though I just turned it down the other day. ......Dolgor-san sat up with a bitter face.''I heard that there is a 'rookie training' for adventurers and noble servants, etc., using a large ship at the sea. I heard that the number of participants is insufficient, and the Merchant's Guild has also received a solicitation for ...... me, too, it seems I've been spotted.By the sea?'A secret program, I'm told. That's why the beach north of the resort is currently closed to people. ...... It's a pain in the ass.''That's possible because the noble Lords of ...... are helping with the training, isn't it?It's ......, so it's a messy story.Sighs Dolgor-san.''A number of people from the merchant guild also said that we should send a few people out to socialize. That's why I'll be talking to them as well. ............ "Newcomer Training" ......?If it is the same as the one that took place in the port city of Ilgafa, then .......The same people could be doing ...... the same kind of training............. good.'Um. If you don't mind. Can I sneak a look at that solicitation, too?I said."Yeah, you can go ahead.Mr. Dolgor nodded easily.'There's a landing at the top of the stairs where you can look into the front door. Why don't you take a look at it from there?I don't think I'll be able to talk to Ilis-sama's direct adventurers at ...... as expected, but I hope it's helpful.Saying that, Mr. Dolgor sighed.You must be really fed up with that 'recruitment'. That 'solicitation'.That's why. I'd like you to join me. Cutlass, Letitia.Of course, sir. I would like to see with my own eyes who is troubling Mr. Dolgor.And I will not allow myself to overlook the fact that a nobleman is involved.Cutlass and Leticia are also on board.If the 'rookie training' that Dolgor-san says is taking place in the ocean, it might be an obstacle to finding ...... the 'Dungeon of the Demon Dragon'.Besides, it's also possible that the mermaids Leticia and the others found - the sea sub-humans - are involved.If that's the case, we need to find out for sure.And so we were guided to the place where we were told about the "recruiters' training"...At the same time, in the Maze of Saint Delilah, Cecil, Rita and Iris. Thanks for coming by!Saints! Cecil, Iris, Aine and Rafilia arrived at the Delilira Maze.''Koto,''Golems appeared from everywhere, as if they were waiting for the four of them to arrive. The golems moved a rock that blocked the entrance to the labyrinth and invited Cecil and the others inside.The place they were led to was a small room with flowing water.It must have been maintained for visitors. There are even fittings to connect the horses and a manger."Well then, the horses, follow me.Cecil pulled his hoof and connected it to the wall hardware.The horses that had been explained the situation in Nagi's "Life Negotiation Hood Negotiation" are all doing as they are told with a look of understanding. These were the horses that had pulled the carriage for me on the previous trip. They must have gotten used to their master's 'strange adventures'.'We will return later. Please give Aine and Rafilia-san a ride to town.Buhiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!Cecil pats me on the back, "Riddle me that! And so the horses snorted.''Saints, did you even make a room like this for us?''She must have been concerned about it. She must be a saint with a strong sense of responsibility.That's a lesson in justice, isn't it?At the words of Aine, Iris and Raphilia, the golems nodded with a 'kokku kokku kokku'.Because she is such a saint, she couldn't leave the mermaid girl in distress unattended, which is why she brought her to the labyrinth like this.When I think about it, Delilah is a saint and a necessary person in this land, Cecil and the others thought.In the meantime, Iris-san and I will meet up with Rita-san.Aine and Master, take care of yourself on the road.With a snap, Cecil and Iris raise their hands and head to the back of the labyrinth.After this, Aine and Rafilia are planning to return to the town after taking plenty of rest.The two of them will be tasked with the Adventurer's Guild and shopping in the town.''Nah-kun said we want to have a 'barbecue party' at the seaside on this trip.'You told me about the 'seaside event' in the original world the other day.'Huh?Didn't Rafilia-san find out when Nah-kun was about to fall asleep?I don't care about the details. Anyway, this time I'd like to do 'I'd like to be able to wear sunscreen and my hand slips when I'm wearing sunscreen' and 'I'd like to be able to feel liberated and unprotected on a deserted island'.'Yes. For that to happen, we need to get this case out of the way.I'm motivated!Oh!Aine and the others see Cecil and Iris off as they talk about these things.And then Cecil and Iris, who went to the depths of the labyrinth...Thank you, Rita. Dear Rita.Cecil, little Ilis!The middle of the Delilira Labyrinth.Rita and Saint Delilira were in the pool room that Nagi and the others had easily cleared before.d*mn it. I was so worried about you. We were worried.Rubbing, Rita patted them both on the head.'Cecil and Iris, did you notice anything unusual about them?'It wasn't much. It was just that Nagi-sama and I invented a new magic.It was supposed to be called 'Hisasshoumarou' but it ended up cutting a giant land snake into rounds, but I suppose it's nothing special....... You can tell me that story later.Rita mumbled, holding her forehead.Then she turned around and pointed toward the pool.The pool was filled with clear water.When we all attacked this labyrinth before, there was slime in the pool, but the only thing in there now was water.There was a little mermaid girl there.She's small in the corner of the pool, staring at you.That's the mermaid girl that the saintly girl saved. I woke up last night, but ...... she seems to be in a panic and won't tell me anything. And I haven't been able to sleep since....... Is that right?...... something must have been hard for you.'Floating above her is the Spiritual Saint Delilira. I was going to greet you all, but I think I missed the ...... timing and now I have my back to you.'I'm sorry, my saint!It's been a while!'Do you remember?I'm Iris-Hafeumea, who created your great vision in a recreational area!At the voice of Cecil and Iris, the spirit saint Delilira reacted with a pikun.She shook her purple hair and looked over her shoulder at Cecil and the others.''You haven't forgotten about ...... Delilira-san, have you?'Of course!The saint is Nagi's precious friend!How could I forget what my saint did for others even in death?"I see. Okay, fine!The saint Delilira hovers in the air and comes in front of Cecil and the others.I'll tell you the identity of that mermaid child first. It is a sub-human who lives in the sea, and her race name is 'Mermaid'. They are a race that lives in caves and uninhabited islands by the sea and are not at all hostile to humans.That's because you live in a different area.That's right, Cecil. 'Yes, Cecil, you can live in both seawater and fresh water, but they don't come to the river at all. There's no point in trying to do that, you see. It would just change the environment around you and make it harder to live in.Then the saint Delilira cut off her words.'Miss Delilira met her because she heard a scream upstream. I reflexively jumped in and found her trapped on a rock at the end of the cave. I tried to save her, but the water was moving fast and the cave was very narrow, and I just couldn't get to her, and then Delilira got caught too.I wonder what the cave is like back there?'I'm sorry, Iris. Even my 'squire's bell' didn't get that far.'No, Rita. I was wondering if it's possible that the cave leads to the ocean.Iris nodded her head, a little thoughtfully.''Then there might be a connection to that 'example place' that your brother is concerned about. We'll just have to ask her about it here.What are you going to do about it, Mr. Iris?...... Iris is of 'sea dragon blood'. Let's show him that and get closer.With that, Iris unbuttoned her clothes with a snap.'It's ...... strange. I never thought I'd have anything to be grateful for the 'Sea Dragon's Blood' that I always hated. I guess the reason I can think like this is because my brother remade everything about Iris, ......With that, Iris dropped everything she was wearing at her feet.She handed the dagger she was holding until the end to Rita and jumped into the pool without hesitation.'Iris-chan! Mr. Iris. Are you okay?Don't worry. Iris has excellent 'swimming skills'.With that, Iris let her naked white body dance and swim out of the water with clean form.On the other side of the pool, a mermaid girl, perhaps noticing the sound of the water, jolted and shook her body. She shook her scaly tail and tried to escape into the water.Wait. "Wait. Iris, like you, has the blood of a sea creature.Iris turned her back to the mermaid girl.She swept her hair down the front of her body as she stood and swam, exposing her white neck and back.The water in the pool was crystal clear. So the mermaid girl should have been able to see it.The clean scales growing there, indicating that she has the 'blood of a sea dragon'.''We're all from the same ocean....... Don't be afraid, okay?............The mermaid girl stopped moving.She was up to her neck in water, staring at Iris.'Did something scary happen to you?'"Korea"The mermaid girl nodded.'Does the Master of Iris say that he will return you to the sea?Do you want that?muteYou're scared about something, and you can't think about it right now?"Korea"'You didn't sleep yesterday or ...... maybe the whole time?'...... countryIf you can't sleep because of a scary thing, there is a way to ...... forget it for a while. Sleep, calm down ...... and then you can fight the scary thing. Would you like to try it?SighsThe mermaid girl looked at Iris with a twinkle in her eye.'Rita-sama. Give that dagger to Iris.Okay. I'm coming.Huh?With her signature 'water walking' ability, Rita comes to Iris.Rita hands Iris a dagger and turns her gaze towards the mermaid girl. When she sees that the girl is frightened, she looks disappointed and goes back to the land....... Rita-sama, I love little girls. You really wanted to hug her and calm her down.With that in mind, Iris approaches the mermaid girl.The girl doesn't try to run away anymore. Breathing raggedly, she stares at Iris as she approaches....... now, take a good night's rest.Iris took the girl's hand and placed the back of the dagger against her shoulder, lightly.''Activated. 'Anshinto, Kokoro Yasumaru.' ............The strength drained from the mermaid girl's body.She rested her back on Iris' chest and began to breathe slowly.'...... are you ......?'The girl looked at Iris with vague eyes.'My name is Iris-Hafeumea. I'm a former 'sea dragon priestess' and now I'm my brother's ...... love slave Doroi.Iris said and patted the girl on the back.'Can you tell me your name, please?'"Sonia.The girl answered shortly.Then, with reddish eyes, she looked straight into Iris's face.You see... Some scary people have attacked the house where she and her friends live. They chased her and her friends out of their home and took their place. Sonia escaped through a secret underground canal. Scary... ...... and...Sonia's eyes were nearly closed.She rested her back against Iris's chest and began to breathe peacefully in her sleep.'...... You must have been nervous the whole time,'Before he knew it, the spirit saint Delilira was floating above Iris' head.'I had a scary moment at the sea, and I came running. I thought I was trapped on a rocky shore, and then a stranger brought me here. No wonder you're so nervous.I'm glad my brother gave me that item.Iris touched the "Anshinanmaru", still in its scabbard.This sword katana has the effect of reducing the subject's worry. It doesn't solve their problems, but it does ease their mental burden. Iris has experienced this effect herself.It really is ...... that my brother can magically help someone else.Yeah.Saint Delilira nodded.Delilira thinks that her friend Letitia will become the king of this country. My friend Letitia, she thought, would be the king of this country, and her bumbling master, Nagi, would play the role of the chief of staff behind the scenes, and the world would be a more interesting place....... Can you tell me more about that story later?Of course.Saint Delilira spirit and Iris look at each other and smile.'Iris, Lady Delilira, ...... be quiet for a moment.Suddenly at their side, Rita said.Before he knew it, he had returned with a 'water walk'. She carried Cecil on her back. Cecil and Rita put their fingers to their lips and posed 'shhhh' to Iris and Delilira....... I think Sonia the mermaid is ...... talking in her sleep about something.Cecil tells them.Rita remains stationary on the surface of the water and brings her beast ears close to the mouth of the mermaid, Sonia.Sonia's lips move faintly and Rita's animal ears twitch.After a while, Rita looks up.'Sonia-chan, you keep saying the same thing. I'm not sure ...... what it means.'What did he say?Dear Rita....... hmmm.Rita cocked her head thoughtfully for a moment and then..."'People of the New Recruit Training ...... scary' ......He turned to Cecil, Iris, and Delilah and told them such things.
