Chapter 219: Episode 219 "I tried to warn the suspicious potion selling conspiracy to be careful of overdrin
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Meanwhile, a mysterious suspicious person...
'...... Funny. How did this happen!
She shouted as she drove through the city at night.
It was more than ten days ago that she invaded the port city of Ilgafa.
The purpose was to check the effectiveness of a certain 'potion'.
The potion she was in charge of selling was effective enough.
I had to return immediately and contact my fellow "alchemists"...
You there, stop!
Suddenly, I heard a shout.
A few guards were standing out of the darkness.
'How can they get ahead of us! How come they're aware of my existence!
She pauses involuntarily.
It was still strange.
I wasn't making any strange movements myself.
I just came to see the reaction of those who drank the 'potion'.
So ...... why am I being identified as a suspicious person?
I want to talk to you. About this town's outbreak of 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome'.
......
I can't let myself get caught here.
Thinking this, she pulled out a metal tube from her pocket.
She opened the lid and drank the contents in one gulp.
I'll show you. The power of a potion that a brave man should drink before a russian boss!
And she released her power.
Nagi's point of view.
'Ooohhhhhh!
I heard a scream.
At the same time, a communication comes in from Fynn.
In the image she sent me - the prowler and the guard had begun to engage in a battle.
Moreover, the suspicious person is stronger.
The guard's siege is about to be broken through.
...... Were we not the only ones who noticed that prowler?
Come to think of it, the guards were also at the scene of the 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome'.
Because they smoothly neutralized the "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people, the guards may have had time to notice the suspicious person.
As a result of trying to call them off - it seems that they have entered into a state of engagement.
'Aine stayed in the lord's house as it is. Cutlass, come closer to us. With the help of Fynn's power, continue the reconnaissance from the air.
I send a message to Aine and Cutlass.
I get a reply from Aine. It's information from the lord's house.
Testimony from a fellow member of the "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people──The fellow who went out of control was drinking a potion for the interview.
Additional information──They were instructed to drink it and get their bodies used to it so that they wouldn't get nervous during the interview.
Information──The interview, in any case, focuses on the willingness to defeat the Demon King.
─ The information──The information sent to me is all that shows the connection between 'Demon King Deficiency' and the 'Interview Preparation Potion'.
I knew I had to talk to that suspicious person.
''Iris, hold on tightly behind me. The other guy is trying to run out of town. I'll get there first.
Yes, sir. Big brother!
Totally.
I'm trying to live comfortably over here and I don't want you to cause a ruckus near my ...... house.
If you want to fight the Demon Lord, why don't you just go find him?
I'm not going to stop you. I just think you should do what you want. I don't think you should have a martial arts tournament.
So why do you need to sell these mysterious self-promotional statements and interview potions?
The goal is to defeat the Demon King, right? You don't need to interject a ritual that could cause trouble!
''If you want to deal with the Demon Lord, you should get the detailed data on that Demon Lord out of the screen first: ......
A screen, sir? Big brother.
It's a story about my world. In this world, the king asked the adventurers, 'The demon king of this story is in trouble when he attacks people. The king asked an adventurer to catch him. Then, the adventurer replied, 'First of all, take the demon king out of the story'.
I understand.
Iris replied while holding my hand.
''The Demon King of this world could be like an illustration of a picture story.
'Both the king and the nobles of this country are taking measures against the demon king in case the demon king comes out of the illustration(s). But the Demon King hasn't come out, and there's no organization trying to bring out the Demon King. ......
What would you do if you were my brother?
Hmm?
'For example, if your brother is the one who knows that the Demon King isn't there and is on the side of the Demon King countermeasures.
If it were me, I'd be ...... right. Assuming there is no Demon King, I'd create an organization that wants to resurrect the Demon King.
The organization?
Yeah. But I don't want them to do it. After that, the organization that plans to resurrect the Demon King has emerged. That means the Demon Lord is trying to come back. I'll make a lot of noise and gather a budget and people to help me. After that, I'll collapse the organization that looks like it, and then I'll pretend that I've prevented the Demon King from returning.
That would attract both budget and human resources. ......
I don't think a royal or nobleman would go that far, though.
I know.
............
............
Me and Iris looked at each other.
I'm running with Iris towards the town gates.
I'm not on foot. I'm riding "Lord Death" in "Horse Mode".
Aine took it out of her storage skill "Big Sister's Treasure Chest" and sent it over to me.
Feen has confirmed that there's no one else around.
He also hides us in Ilisu's Illusionary Space. We have to stay out of sight.
"Demon Lord or not, Iris won't tolerate people using drugs to manipulate others.
Iris stuck to my back and mumbled.
'If you forget yourself after you drink, it means you forget your love for your brother! I will eradicate such a potion from the world for taking away Iris' most precious thought!
That's why?
'Of course! That potion user is the enemy of all girls!
'No, that's not a good theory, maiden girl.
The Magic Sword Leggy trembled at my back.
''Is your love for the Lord forgotten after a mere drink of the potion?
Haha!
'Shouldn't we prove our love for the Lord by drinking it, rather than the other way around?
......, sure.
'And if the Lord empowered you with your sanity intact, wouldn't you be able to take your Lord's resistance and set him free? ...... Wouldn't you be thirsty? The little girl will set the big Lord free. She's going to crawl into the Lord's bed, tear off her clothes, and do this and that.
Big brother! We'll definitely get this enemy!
...... Yeah.
And then take a sample of the potion you took and use it when Iris can't resist...
That's dismissed!
"Oh no, oh no!
Why are your voices humming, Iris and Reggie?
"My lord. I see the enemy, that I do.
Suddenly, Lord Death murmured.
The blue slime is sticking out of the gap in the horse's body.
The blue slime has stuck with me this long. I'll have to give them an extra reward later.
We'll be in touch in a few minutes, that I'm sure. What would you like to do?
"Lord Death, go into 'box mode' and hide. The slimes are with him.
"All right.
''Iris and Reggie, come with me. If they use the potion, Iris' 'illusory space' will be useful.
'Yes, sir.' 'Mm! I understand.
We are near the gates of the port city of Irgafa.
We hide the box-shaped Lord Death in an alleyway and step out onto the main street.
Of course, I've already put my hood on and disguised myself.
Iris is in mystery shifu 'Melody' mode.
"──── Mm.
A figure running down the street stopped in its tracks.
He has a hood over his head, hiding his face.
He wears a silver bracelet on each arm. His hair is red.
It's just like the picture Fynn sent me.
'It's ......, you guys.
The figure drew two swords from his waist.
'It doesn't appear to be the guards. Let me see if I can get through there.
We're assisting Kelkator, the sea dragon.
Help?
''Yeah. The sea dragons are in charge of the sea side. As its companion, I'll be in charge of the land side over here. Only in my spare time.
The person in front of me doesn't move, holding the sword in both hands.
He seems to be wary of the word 'sea dragon'.
''Besides, we have guards over here who are willing to help us.
Mmmm?
Thump thump.
Soldiers in armor appear from the alleyway.
A total of 12 people.
They stand side by side, holding spears and shields, as if to protect me and Iris.
"Currently, the port city of Irgapha is in a great deal of trouble because of the 'Demon Lord Deficiency'.
I said, "So today, the guards and we were all on high alert.
That's why the guards and I were on high alert today," he said. And we found the same person witnessing the Demon King's Deficiency Syndrome being triggered. You have to be able to watch the person who developed the disease go out of control and then leave. That was you.
...... Ah, so that's what it means.
'The guards you called off, you took down the guards without question and came here. That's why we're here to talk to you. That's why we're sitting here talking to you.
I grabbed the hilt of the Demon Sword Leggy.
''Demon king deficiency disease, martial arts competitions, and demon king countermeasures──if you know anything about these, please tell me. If you don't know anything about them...
No, he knows. Yes, I know!
The figure flipped off the hood.
The person who appeared was a woman with red hair.
An unfamiliar face. Her lips were fished up and she was looking at me with challenging eyes.
'But you're not going to tell me! A softling who relies on the guards!
The girl spat out.
Her lips twitched in a mocking smile and she pointed the tip of her sword towards me.
'Are you not ashamed of yourself, you!
...... Huh?
The swordsman is the vanguard. The vanguard is the one who fights and defeats the enemy head on. That's what my potion is for. I'm not going to talk to a man who's blustering under the protection of the guards!
I see. So I'm pretty sure you're the one with the potion.
Shut up! You can't stand on the windward side of a swordsman!
'Swordsman's Windward: ......'
No proud man would call in the guards!
'No, that's not the logic. That's coming from a guy who's handing out questionable potions.
'I'm talking about being ready to fight!
The girl took out a metal tube from the leather bag on her back.
That's the 'interview preparation potion' that the people with 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome' were drinking, right?
''A swordsman is one who stands on the front line and fights. I have that pride. If you use the guards as shields, I will use this potion and fight you to the death!
...... er.
The girl has a straight face. Apparently she is serious.
I wonder what it is. I wonder if she has brain muscles.
'So, if the guards aren't there, will you accept me as an equal partner?
Yeah. Yeah. If you're brave enough.
Can you tell me what you know?
Ha. Very well. If you have the courage to face me without the guards, I will answer to you. But they have a job to do. You can't afford to do that. So....
Yes, sir. Guards, please stand back.
'I'm going to go on and on,'
I say, and the guards leave across the alley.
'............ Huh?' Huh? Huh? Where are the guards?
He's gone.
...... eh, eh, eh?
On the road, it would be just me, Iris, and the girl with the twin swords again.
The moment the soldiers entered the alley - the girl's blind spot, they disappeared in a flash.
"End of ...... activation. "Illusionary Space
Iris murmurs softly next to me.
The people who were here earlier were the illusory soldiers that Iris created.
I thought they would give up and surrender when they saw the army of soldiers, but I guess it had the opposite effect.
Well, I got what I wanted to say.
We're not the ones being protected by the guards, now are we?
I said.
'You're proud, aren't you? That's the pride of being a vanguard, right? Please tell me. Did you give out the 'Demon King Deficiency' potion? What is its purpose? How do I get the one who drank the potion back?
...... gumbo.
The twin swordswoman is clenching her teeth.
'All right. So you want to fight one on one, I suppose!
No, that's not what I'm talking about. Talk.
'I'll use this potion to spare you that resolve!
The girl took out a metal tube from the package on her back.
She took the lid off and fanned the contents at once.
'...... Iris, ...... brother.'
Me and Iris exchange glances.
I've seen this coming. I've timed it to coincide with...
"Whoa, whoa, whoa!
The next moment, a scarlet aura erupted from the girl's body.
"This is the 'Potion for the hero to drink in front of the boss'. With this, you guys can drink it in an instant...
"'Oh! There's a demon king in that place!''
What?
Me and Iris pointed to an alleyway.
The illusory Demon King was standing there.
''Demon King, Maaaaaaaaaaah!
"'I held back!'?
I thought you'd react to the pseudo-food demon king like the rest of us!
The twin-sworded girl is stomping the ground, holding back as she runs towards the alley.
''Oh, of course. I'm not like the failed 'Teppo Dama Yuusha'.
"Shotgun Hero?
You know, the ones you see in stories and stuff. The guy who gets carried away and goes against the demon king or mid-boss, and gets killed easily. They are reasonably strong, but they get carried away and go head to head with someone who is not as strong as they should be. This is what the true heroes call this kind of person, the 'gunslinger'.
'Wait for ....... There's something wrong with what you're saying.
This guy was handing out potions to people in the 'martial arts tournament'.
He admits that to himself.
And yet, he looks down on the person who went out of control due to 'Demon King Deficiency', calling him a 'gunball'.
"──Didn't you mean to say that the potion was used to create that 'gunball hero'?
Do you mean to tell me that you've gone to the trouble of handing out pills that make people go crazy?
Me and Iris screamed at the same time.
No, I don't know what you mean. I really don't.
Why do you need to create such a thing as a 'gunball hero'?
Because it takes a noble sacrifice for a brave man to achieve glory.
The girl said.
''If it weren't for the beings who fought so hard and scattered for the defeat of the Demon King, the heroes wouldn't stand out. There is only one party that can defeat the Demon King. The other brave mods must scatter brilliantly. To do that, I'll create an environment where people will pay attention to the Demon King! After that groundwork is laid, the legend, the defeat of the Demon King, will begin!
'You don't mean that's what the 'martial arts competition' is for?
'No more questions! Let's go!
The girl gulped down another potion again.
The aura that covered her body grew stronger.
''Fuu, fuu. Whew! ──────!
The girl starts kicking the ground, snorting like a fighting bull.
I grabbed my magic sword, Leggy.
The opponent's weapons are two short swords.
You can use Jusui Kenjutsu to parry an attack, but it's impossible to do both swords at the same time.
When the first sword is deflected, the second attack comes.
In that case, you'll have no choice but to maintain your timing and fight: ......
'Oooohhhhhh!
A girl starts running on the ground.
With tremendous speed, she runs straight at us.
I'll just measure the distance between us and...
White. Nice to meet you.
"Hi. I thought we were going to activate it. "Shirdo!
A translucent barrier occurred in front of me and Iris.
Gogon!
...... gugu?
The red-haired girl slammed into the 'shiurdo' from its face.
Going around its side, I swung my magic sword Reggie.
''──Chiii!
Crunch.
The girl jumps back. The magic sword leggy only grazed her.
''What the hell was that skill?
"Well,
Me and Iris nod our heads.
The girl is wary and doesn't come close. It's now or never.
'Leggy!
'Oh! Activate the Condition Changer!
A figure-sized Leggy appears on my shoulder.
At the same time, there's a roulette wheel in front of me.
The game is decided by the timing of the Leggy.
"You have a lot of responsibility. Lord.
'Yeah. But I have a feeling it's going to be okay, somehow.
'Is that so? Big brother.
'Up until now, the 'Condition Change Slash [Condition Changer]' has had an effect based on the opponent's condition.
The Winglizard, with wings made of leather, has an "itch" on his skin (hifu).
The one who was trying to cast a spell had a sneeze.
The big slime has a whiff of cold and its body shrinks.
'Body Condition Change Slash [Condition Changer]' is a level 4 cheat skill.
Even if the damage is small, the effect on the body is huge.
So, my opponent right now is a hard-drunkard who takes a lot of potions.
All right. Iris. I know what to expect.
"Pop. Tsk, tsk.
Leggy's finger stops the roulette.
The letters displayed are...
"The Hangover
"'...... I knew it'
'Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee'
Oh. The potion user is cowering.
I've been doping quite a bit. So that's the feedback that's coming.
When I drink too much alcohol, I get high and the hangover downer comes the next day.
This potion also makes me stronger after drinking, but then I have zero energy and strength.
The "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people, they were limp after they were caught.
When that feeling of weakness comes all at once, that's when you'll feel sick .......
............ Ugh, it's disgusting. It's weird. It's weird. ......
The potion user girl sits down, spitting out all the potions she drank.
She looks at us and tries to get up, but she just flops down.
It's a match.
...... Ugh, oh.
So, tell me a story, then.
I said.
"About the secrets of 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome', 'Martial Arts Tournament' and 'Potion'. Everything.
Then.
The potion user girl who had lost her combat power began to talk about what she knew.
As expected, 'Demon King Deficiency' was a side effect of the potion she gave out.
She was selling the potions to adventurers as a way to prepare for the interview for the 'Martial Arts Tournament'.
Of course, the adventurers of this world have never written a 'self-promotional letter'. She's never had an 'interview' either.
Her 'substitute writing' and 'interview preparation potions' were said to be very popular.
But she changed the potions she sold to different customers.
For the general customers, she sold shoddy products that had the side effects of 'Demon King is Nega'.
For the upperclassmen, she would sell the same high class products that she herself used.
It was because she had the goal of 'enlivening the martial arts tournament by any means necessary'.
The tournament would be more exciting if it became a battle between heroes with extrahuman powers.
It seems that even the "Demon King Lack" in "The Demon King is Here" was an expression of her desire to defeat the Demon King and she intended to use it to liven up the event.
And...
The port city of Irgafa refused to voluntarily fund the martial arts tournament, so they wanted ...... to get even.
Isn't funding a ...... martial arts tournament free?
"It was a free but invested atmosphere. It's inexcusable not to read that air - and that's what my client (client) said.
"Client?
............ This is Count Gervis, the ruler of the northern city of Hermilt.
"'I see.'
Me, Iris, and Reggie nodded.
A lord who belongs to the 'Original Brave Guild' would say something like that.
That's amazing.
You're going to this extent for the martial arts competition and the brave. ......
''One more question. Are you a 'visitor'? Did you use those skills to create 'potions'?
"I know ...... such things exist ...... but I'm not ....... I made the potion: .......
What did you make?
The girl looked away.
All right, let's get another copy of The Sword That Hungover...
Okay, all right. Okay, I'll tell you. I'll tell you!
The girl frantically shakes and replies, "I received the potion from the 'alchemist' in charge of combating the demon king.
''I received the potion from the 'alchemist' in charge of combating the demon king.
...... Is there such a department as the one in charge of combating the Demon King?
Yeah. That's what my boss, the alchemist, said.
Even at ......, is there really a demon king?
'I heard there's a picture figure at the alchemists' headquarters. They made a potion to respond to it, so it must be ...... true.
Since when does this alchemist have an anti-demonic countermeasure?
...... Come on, man. I'm told it's been decades.
The Demon King didn't come out during that time, did he?
There's no indication that he's not there.
Yeah, but...
''I heard that those alchemists update the 'Beware of the Demon Lord' document every ten years. If it weren't for the Demon King, why would they have to do that?
Are they spreading the Demon King story themselves?
But you have no proof that the Demon King isn't there, right?
'But even so, you're doing it wrong. Selling potions that make people go wild and make martial arts tournaments more exciting to counter the Demon King.
What these guys might want is the "concept" of a Demon King.
They won't be convinced even if I show them the "Lord Death".
On the contrary, they'd be proud to say, "See, there he is. It's the Demon King." It looks like he's going to be proud of his victory.
This is my last question.
There's a transmission from Fynn.
The guards have armed themselves and are coming towards us.
It would be troublesome if they find us, so it's best to sneak a word to the captain and leave the rest to him.
Do the words 'Devil's Body' ring any bells?
Come on.
Oh, yeah?
So, how do you know the Demon King isn't there?
Prove that he's there or not there, that's your business. It's not our business.
Me and Iris backed away from the potion user girl.
But I won't allow you to mess with our town. We are the Dragon's Family, and we are the guardians of this town. I'm sure you're not going to be able to get away with it. That's all.
"............ hmm.
Then the potion-using girl lowered her eyes.
Between us and her is a large leather bag.
It's the one the girl was carrying on her back. There's a lot of tubes with potions inside.
We received a dozen samples. So, okay.
'Se-no! "Delayed combat...
The blade of the giant demon sword Leggy smashed all the potions with the leather bag.
''Gya──────!
The girl, who had been unconcerned, starts screaming.
'Oh, the devil! Oh, my God. How could you do that! This is the ideal medicine for manipulating people and yet...!
I'm handing you over to the guards. You're selling the antidote from now on.
Let's go. Let's go, big brother.
I know.
We turned our backs to the girl and started walking.
As we entered the alleyway, the guards arrived at the right moment, and the girl didn't resist anymore.
The girl is no longer resisting. She's hungover again.
With a gulp, she looked as if the world had ended and the guards dragged her away.
''I'd better get this potion analyzed by the saintly lady.
I'm sure Our Lady would know how to detoxify you.
"Don't you drink?
'I've changed my mind. Love isn't something to be tested, you know. Mr. Leggy.
"Love is meant to be exchanged.
Iris and Reggie exchange glances and chuckle at each other.
Totally. You're not nervous.
"Come and see. "Lord Death.
"No, no, I was just pretending to be a wall.
At the end of the alleyway, "Lord Death," which had been hiding in a box shape, shuffled and turned into a horse again.
We put the slime in it and started to run towards the house.
It's good night. It's a good day. Iris-chan.
I'm sorry to hear that.
"The bath is ready for you. "I've taken a bath.
'Yes, I suppose so. I'm afraid Iris is sweating, too.
"Don't tell everyone. Big sister, alter-ego, knight-errant, maidenhead.
"" ""........................""
So we took a bath and had a good night.
Then we made a plan for the future.
We know that the martial arts tournament in Metekal is in trouble.
We knew that the martial arts tournament at Metecal was in trouble, so we had to hurry up and meet up with Rita and Leticia.
With that in mind, I went to sleep.
The next morning, as I was getting ready to leave...
Big brother! A letter has been sent to the Ilgafa lord's house!
...... from Rita and Letitia?
That's not .......
If it was a letter from the two of us, it would be arriving at this house.
A letter from us coming to the House of the Lord of Ilgafa, say, a letter about us.
Don't tell me you're the Princess Claudia of Charity!
'Your answer, sir! Big brother!
Iris spread the royal sealed parchment on the living room table.
On it...
''I would like to respond to your inquiry.
The martial arts competition being held in the commercial city of Metekal is to counter the Demon King.
I'm sorry, but I'm not involved in this matter.
We have investigated it here, but we couldn't find out any details about it.
All I know is that the winner has already been decided now, before the event.
The winner is Count Gervis, Lord of the Northern Town of Hermilt.
The runner-up was Volfried, the holy swordsman.
Third place went to the black swordsman, Tanaka-Koga.
That's it.
The Ally of the Sea Dragon, Claudia-League Nadal.
Do we know who's going to finish third from the winner?
'What does it mean? Big brother.
'I don't know. I don't know. ......
I'll just have to go.
I'm not interested in martial arts competitions, but I'm worried about Rita and Letitia.
So I have a proposition for Iris.
Iris held up one finger with a snap.
My father told me. "My father told me that if you want, I can arrange a 'metecal tour' for you.
"'Metecal Sightseeing Tour'?
''If 'Sea Dragon Hero' is going to Metekal, he wants to prepare a carriage and lodging for you as a thank you for this incident. He will also provide us with a temporary identification card as well.
Iris held out a small plate in front of me.
It's an identification card used by the guards of the port city of Ilgafa.
The name is written on the surface. "Melody Rutkal.
He's spoofing the name of the mysterious Thief Melody and the name of 'Kerkator the Sea Dragon' to make it his last name.
"We've prepared one for you and your brother. Please.
"I'm 'Nagir-Rutkal'?
'There's one for Aine, and one for me.' 'There's even one for Fynn?'
And by the way, we all share the same last name.
Your last name?
Yes. Polygamy, so to speak.
"'Let's go!'
It was unanimous.
Of course, we have IDs for Rita and Leticia.
We'll find them and retrieve them as tour partners.
That way, we should be able to protect them both safely.
I wonder what kind of tour is hosted by the ...... lord.
That's okay. Iris is supervising.
I don't know if I can do this.
Of course. We won't let you down!
Iris bent her thin arms and posed with her gut.
Thus, we were going on a "Metecal Sightseeing Tour" organized by the port city of Ilgafa.
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Meanwhile, a mysterious suspicious person...
'...... Funny. How did this happen!
She shouted as she drove through the city at night.
It was more than ten days ago that she invaded the port city of Ilgafa.
The purpose was to check the effectiveness of a certain 'potion'.
The potion she was in charge of selling was effective enough.
I had to return immediately and contact my fellow "alchemists"...
You there, stop!
Suddenly, I heard a shout.
A few guards were standing out of the darkness.
'How can they get ahead of us! How come they're aware of my existence!
She pauses involuntarily.
It was still strange.
I wasn't making any strange movements myself.
I just came to see the reaction of those who drank the 'potion'.
So ...... why am I being identified as a suspicious person?
I want to talk to you. About this town's outbreak of 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome'.
......
I can't let myself get caught here.
Thinking this, she pulled out a metal tube from her pocket.
She opened the lid and drank the contents in one gulp.
I'll show you. The power of a potion that a brave man should drink before a russian boss!
And she released her power.
Nagi's point of view.
'Ooohhhhhh!
I heard a scream.
At the same time, a communication comes in from Fynn.
In the image she sent me - the prowler and the guard had begun to engage in a battle.
Moreover, the suspicious person is stronger.
The guard's siege is about to be broken through.
...... Were we not the only ones who noticed that prowler?
Come to think of it, the guards were also at the scene of the 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome'.
Because they smoothly neutralized the "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people, the guards may have had time to notice the suspicious person.
As a result of trying to call them off - it seems that they have entered into a state of engagement.
'Aine stayed in the lord's house as it is. Cutlass, come closer to us. With the help of Fynn's power, continue the reconnaissance from the air.
I send a message to Aine and Cutlass.
I get a reply from Aine. It's information from the lord's house.
Testimony from a fellow member of the "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people──The fellow who went out of control was drinking a potion for the interview.
Additional information──They were instructed to drink it and get their bodies used to it so that they wouldn't get nervous during the interview.
Information──The interview, in any case, focuses on the willingness to defeat the Demon King.
─ The information──The information sent to me is all that shows the connection between 'Demon King Deficiency' and the 'Interview Preparation Potion'.
I knew I had to talk to that suspicious person.
''Iris, hold on tightly behind me. The other guy is trying to run out of town. I'll get there first.
Yes, sir. Big brother!
Totally.
I'm trying to live comfortably over here and I don't want you to cause a ruckus near my ...... house.
If you want to fight the Demon Lord, why don't you just go find him?
I'm not going to stop you. I just think you should do what you want. I don't think you should have a martial arts tournament.
So why do you need to sell these mysterious self-promotional statements and interview potions?
The goal is to defeat the Demon King, right? You don't need to interject a ritual that could cause trouble!
''If you want to deal with the Demon Lord, you should get the detailed data on that Demon Lord out of the screen first: ......
A screen, sir? Big brother.
It's a story about my world. In this world, the king asked the adventurers, 'The demon king of this story is in trouble when he attacks people. The king asked an adventurer to catch him. Then, the adventurer replied, 'First of all, take the demon king out of the story'.
I understand.
Iris replied while holding my hand.
''The Demon King of this world could be like an illustration of a picture story.
'Both the king and the nobles of this country are taking measures against the demon king in case the demon king comes out of the illustration(s). But the Demon King hasn't come out, and there's no organization trying to bring out the Demon King. ......
What would you do if you were my brother?
Hmm?
'For example, if your brother is the one who knows that the Demon King isn't there and is on the side of the Demon King countermeasures.
If it were me, I'd be ...... right. Assuming there is no Demon King, I'd create an organization that wants to resurrect the Demon King.
The organization?
Yeah. But I don't want them to do it. After that, the organization that plans to resurrect the Demon King has emerged. That means the Demon Lord is trying to come back. I'll make a lot of noise and gather a budget and people to help me. After that, I'll collapse the organization that looks like it, and then I'll pretend that I've prevented the Demon King from returning.
That would attract both budget and human resources. ......
I don't think a royal or nobleman would go that far, though.
I know.
............
............
Me and Iris looked at each other.
I'm running with Iris towards the town gates.
I'm not on foot. I'm riding "Lord Death" in "Horse Mode".
Aine took it out of her storage skill "Big Sister's Treasure Chest" and sent it over to me.
Feen has confirmed that there's no one else around.
He also hides us in Ilisu's Illusionary Space. We have to stay out of sight.
"Demon Lord or not, Iris won't tolerate people using drugs to manipulate others.
Iris stuck to my back and mumbled.
'If you forget yourself after you drink, it means you forget your love for your brother! I will eradicate such a potion from the world for taking away Iris' most precious thought!
That's why?
'Of course! That potion user is the enemy of all girls!
'No, that's not a good theory, maiden girl.
The Magic Sword Leggy trembled at my back.
''Is your love for the Lord forgotten after a mere drink of the potion?
Haha!
'Shouldn't we prove our love for the Lord by drinking it, rather than the other way around?
......, sure.
'And if the Lord empowered you with your sanity intact, wouldn't you be able to take your Lord's resistance and set him free? ...... Wouldn't you be thirsty? The little girl will set the big Lord free. She's going to crawl into the Lord's bed, tear off her clothes, and do this and that.
Big brother! We'll definitely get this enemy!
...... Yeah.
And then take a sample of the potion you took and use it when Iris can't resist...
That's dismissed!
"Oh no, oh no!
Why are your voices humming, Iris and Reggie?
"My lord. I see the enemy, that I do.
Suddenly, Lord Death murmured.
The blue slime is sticking out of the gap in the horse's body.
The blue slime has stuck with me this long. I'll have to give them an extra reward later.
We'll be in touch in a few minutes, that I'm sure. What would you like to do?
"Lord Death, go into 'box mode' and hide. The slimes are with him.
"All right.
''Iris and Reggie, come with me. If they use the potion, Iris' 'illusory space' will be useful.
'Yes, sir.' 'Mm! I understand.
We are near the gates of the port city of Irgafa.
We hide the box-shaped Lord Death in an alleyway and step out onto the main street.
Of course, I've already put my hood on and disguised myself.
Iris is in mystery shifu 'Melody' mode.
"──── Mm.
A figure running down the street stopped in its tracks.
He has a hood over his head, hiding his face.
He wears a silver bracelet on each arm. His hair is red.
It's just like the picture Fynn sent me.
'It's ......, you guys.
The figure drew two swords from his waist.
'It doesn't appear to be the guards. Let me see if I can get through there.
We're assisting Kelkator, the sea dragon.
Help?
''Yeah. The sea dragons are in charge of the sea side. As its companion, I'll be in charge of the land side over here. Only in my spare time.
The person in front of me doesn't move, holding the sword in both hands.
He seems to be wary of the word 'sea dragon'.
''Besides, we have guards over here who are willing to help us.
Mmmm?
Thump thump.
Soldiers in armor appear from the alleyway.
A total of 12 people.
They stand side by side, holding spears and shields, as if to protect me and Iris.
"Currently, the port city of Irgapha is in a great deal of trouble because of the 'Demon Lord Deficiency'.
I said, "So today, the guards and we were all on high alert.
That's why the guards and I were on high alert today," he said. And we found the same person witnessing the Demon King's Deficiency Syndrome being triggered. You have to be able to watch the person who developed the disease go out of control and then leave. That was you.
...... Ah, so that's what it means.
'The guards you called off, you took down the guards without question and came here. That's why we're here to talk to you. That's why we're sitting here talking to you.
I grabbed the hilt of the Demon Sword Leggy.
''Demon king deficiency disease, martial arts competitions, and demon king countermeasures──if you know anything about these, please tell me. If you don't know anything about them...
No, he knows. Yes, I know!
The figure flipped off the hood.
The person who appeared was a woman with red hair.
An unfamiliar face. Her lips were fished up and she was looking at me with challenging eyes.
'But you're not going to tell me! A softling who relies on the guards!
The girl spat out.
Her lips twitched in a mocking smile and she pointed the tip of her sword towards me.
'Are you not ashamed of yourself, you!
...... Huh?
The swordsman is the vanguard. The vanguard is the one who fights and defeats the enemy head on. That's what my potion is for. I'm not going to talk to a man who's blustering under the protection of the guards!
I see. So I'm pretty sure you're the one with the potion.
Shut up! You can't stand on the windward side of a swordsman!
'Swordsman's Windward: ......'
No proud man would call in the guards!
'No, that's not the logic. That's coming from a guy who's handing out questionable potions.
'I'm talking about being ready to fight!
The girl took out a metal tube from the leather bag on her back.
That's the 'interview preparation potion' that the people with 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome' were drinking, right?
''A swordsman is one who stands on the front line and fights. I have that pride. If you use the guards as shields, I will use this potion and fight you to the death!
...... er.
The girl has a straight face. Apparently she is serious.
I wonder what it is. I wonder if she has brain muscles.
'So, if the guards aren't there, will you accept me as an equal partner?
Yeah. Yeah. If you're brave enough.
Can you tell me what you know?
Ha. Very well. If you have the courage to face me without the guards, I will answer to you. But they have a job to do. You can't afford to do that. So....
Yes, sir. Guards, please stand back.
'I'm going to go on and on,'
I say, and the guards leave across the alley.
'............ Huh?' Huh? Huh? Where are the guards?
He's gone.
...... eh, eh, eh?
On the road, it would be just me, Iris, and the girl with the twin swords again.
The moment the soldiers entered the alley - the girl's blind spot, they disappeared in a flash.
"End of ...... activation. "Illusionary Space
Iris murmurs softly next to me.
The people who were here earlier were the illusory soldiers that Iris created.
I thought they would give up and surrender when they saw the army of soldiers, but I guess it had the opposite effect.
Well, I got what I wanted to say.
We're not the ones being protected by the guards, now are we?
I said.
'You're proud, aren't you? That's the pride of being a vanguard, right? Please tell me. Did you give out the 'Demon King Deficiency' potion? What is its purpose? How do I get the one who drank the potion back?
...... gumbo.
The twin swordswoman is clenching her teeth.
'All right. So you want to fight one on one, I suppose!
No, that's not what I'm talking about. Talk.
'I'll use this potion to spare you that resolve!
The girl took out a metal tube from the package on her back.
She took the lid off and fanned the contents at once.
'...... Iris, ...... brother.'
Me and Iris exchange glances.
I've seen this coming. I've timed it to coincide with...
"Whoa, whoa, whoa!
The next moment, a scarlet aura erupted from the girl's body.
"This is the 'Potion for the hero to drink in front of the boss'. With this, you guys can drink it in an instant...
"'Oh! There's a demon king in that place!''
What?
Me and Iris pointed to an alleyway.
The illusory Demon King was standing there.
''Demon King, Maaaaaaaaaaah!
"'I held back!'?
I thought you'd react to the pseudo-food demon king like the rest of us!
The twin-sworded girl is stomping the ground, holding back as she runs towards the alley.
''Oh, of course. I'm not like the failed 'Teppo Dama Yuusha'.
"Shotgun Hero?
You know, the ones you see in stories and stuff. The guy who gets carried away and goes against the demon king or mid-boss, and gets killed easily. They are reasonably strong, but they get carried away and go head to head with someone who is not as strong as they should be. This is what the true heroes call this kind of person, the 'gunslinger'.
'Wait for ....... There's something wrong with what you're saying.
This guy was handing out potions to people in the 'martial arts tournament'.
He admits that to himself.
And yet, he looks down on the person who went out of control due to 'Demon King Deficiency', calling him a 'gunball'.
"──Didn't you mean to say that the potion was used to create that 'gunball hero'?
Do you mean to tell me that you've gone to the trouble of handing out pills that make people go crazy?
Me and Iris screamed at the same time.
No, I don't know what you mean. I really don't.
Why do you need to create such a thing as a 'gunball hero'?
Because it takes a noble sacrifice for a brave man to achieve glory.
The girl said.
''If it weren't for the beings who fought so hard and scattered for the defeat of the Demon King, the heroes wouldn't stand out. There is only one party that can defeat the Demon King. The other brave mods must scatter brilliantly. To do that, I'll create an environment where people will pay attention to the Demon King! After that groundwork is laid, the legend, the defeat of the Demon King, will begin!
'You don't mean that's what the 'martial arts competition' is for?
'No more questions! Let's go!
The girl gulped down another potion again.
The aura that covered her body grew stronger.
''Fuu, fuu. Whew! ──────!
The girl starts kicking the ground, snorting like a fighting bull.
I grabbed my magic sword, Leggy.
The opponent's weapons are two short swords.
You can use Jusui Kenjutsu to parry an attack, but it's impossible to do both swords at the same time.
When the first sword is deflected, the second attack comes.
In that case, you'll have no choice but to maintain your timing and fight: ......
'Oooohhhhhh!
A girl starts running on the ground.
With tremendous speed, she runs straight at us.
I'll just measure the distance between us and...
White. Nice to meet you.
"Hi. I thought we were going to activate it. "Shirdo!
A translucent barrier occurred in front of me and Iris.
Gogon!
...... gugu?
The red-haired girl slammed into the 'shiurdo' from its face.
Going around its side, I swung my magic sword Reggie.
''──Chiii!
Crunch.
The girl jumps back. The magic sword leggy only grazed her.
''What the hell was that skill?
"Well,
Me and Iris nod our heads.
The girl is wary and doesn't come close. It's now or never.
'Leggy!
'Oh! Activate the Condition Changer!
A figure-sized Leggy appears on my shoulder.
At the same time, there's a roulette wheel in front of me.
The game is decided by the timing of the Leggy.
"You have a lot of responsibility. Lord.
'Yeah. But I have a feeling it's going to be okay, somehow.
'Is that so? Big brother.
'Up until now, the 'Condition Change Slash [Condition Changer]' has had an effect based on the opponent's condition.
The Winglizard, with wings made of leather, has an "itch" on his skin (hifu).
The one who was trying to cast a spell had a sneeze.
The big slime has a whiff of cold and its body shrinks.
'Body Condition Change Slash [Condition Changer]' is a level 4 cheat skill.
Even if the damage is small, the effect on the body is huge.
So, my opponent right now is a hard-drunkard who takes a lot of potions.
All right. Iris. I know what to expect.
"Pop. Tsk, tsk.
Leggy's finger stops the roulette.
The letters displayed are...
"The Hangover
"'...... I knew it'
'Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee'
Oh. The potion user is cowering.
I've been doping quite a bit. So that's the feedback that's coming.
When I drink too much alcohol, I get high and the hangover downer comes the next day.
This potion also makes me stronger after drinking, but then I have zero energy and strength.
The "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people, they were limp after they were caught.
When that feeling of weakness comes all at once, that's when you'll feel sick .......
............ Ugh, it's disgusting. It's weird. It's weird. ......
The potion user girl sits down, spitting out all the potions she drank.
She looks at us and tries to get up, but she just flops down.
It's a match.
...... Ugh, oh.
So, tell me a story, then.
I said.
"About the secrets of 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome', 'Martial Arts Tournament' and 'Potion'. Everything.
Then.
The potion user girl who had lost her combat power began to talk about what she knew.
As expected, 'Demon King Deficiency' was a side effect of the potion she gave out.
She was selling the potions to adventurers as a way to prepare for the interview for the 'Martial Arts Tournament'.
Of course, the adventurers of this world have never written a 'self-promotional letter'. She's never had an 'interview' either.
Her 'substitute writing' and 'interview preparation potions' were said to be very popular.
But she changed the potions she sold to different customers.
For the general customers, she sold shoddy products that had the side effects of 'Demon King is Nega'.
For the upperclassmen, she would sell the same high class products that she herself used.
It was because she had the goal of 'enlivening the martial arts tournament by any means necessary'.
The tournament would be more exciting if it became a battle between heroes with extrahuman powers.
It seems that even the "Demon King Lack" in "The Demon King is Here" was an expression of her desire to defeat the Demon King and she intended to use it to liven up the event.
And...
The port city of Irgafa refused to voluntarily fund the martial arts tournament, so they wanted ...... to get even.
Isn't funding a ...... martial arts tournament free?
"It was a free but invested atmosphere. It's inexcusable not to read that air - and that's what my client (client) said.
"Client?
............ This is Count Gervis, the ruler of the northern city of Hermilt.
"'I see.'
Me, Iris, and Reggie nodded.
A lord who belongs to the 'Original Brave Guild' would say something like that.
That's amazing.
You're going to this extent for the martial arts competition and the brave. ......
''One more question. Are you a 'visitor'? Did you use those skills to create 'potions'?
"I know ...... such things exist ...... but I'm not ....... I made the potion: .......
What did you make?
The girl looked away.
All right, let's get another copy of The Sword That Hungover...
Okay, all right. Okay, I'll tell you. I'll tell you!
The girl frantically shakes and replies, "I received the potion from the 'alchemist' in charge of combating the demon king.
''I received the potion from the 'alchemist' in charge of combating the demon king.
...... Is there such a department as the one in charge of combating the Demon King?
Yeah. That's what my boss, the alchemist, said.
Even at ......, is there really a demon king?
'I heard there's a picture figure at the alchemists' headquarters. They made a potion to respond to it, so it must be ...... true.
Since when does this alchemist have an anti-demonic countermeasure?
...... Come on, man. I'm told it's been decades.
The Demon King didn't come out during that time, did he?
There's no indication that he's not there.
Yeah, but...
''I heard that those alchemists update the 'Beware of the Demon Lord' document every ten years. If it weren't for the Demon King, why would they have to do that?
Are they spreading the Demon King story themselves?
But you have no proof that the Demon King isn't there, right?
'But even so, you're doing it wrong. Selling potions that make people go wild and make martial arts tournaments more exciting to counter the Demon King.
What these guys might want is the "concept" of a Demon King.
They won't be convinced even if I show them the "Lord Death".
On the contrary, they'd be proud to say, "See, there he is. It's the Demon King." It looks like he's going to be proud of his victory.
This is my last question.
There's a transmission from Fynn.
The guards have armed themselves and are coming towards us.
It would be troublesome if they find us, so it's best to sneak a word to the captain and leave the rest to him.
Do the words 'Devil's Body' ring any bells?
Come on.
Oh, yeah?
So, how do you know the Demon King isn't there?
Prove that he's there or not there, that's your business. It's not our business.
Me and Iris backed away from the potion user girl.
But I won't allow you to mess with our town. We are the Dragon's Family, and we are the guardians of this town. I'm sure you're not going to be able to get away with it. That's all.
"............ hmm.
Then the potion-using girl lowered her eyes.
Between us and her is a large leather bag.
It's the one the girl was carrying on her back. There's a lot of tubes with potions inside.
We received a dozen samples. So, okay.
'Se-no! "Delayed combat...
The blade of the giant demon sword Leggy smashed all the potions with the leather bag.
''Gya──────!
The girl, who had been unconcerned, starts screaming.
'Oh, the devil! Oh, my God. How could you do that! This is the ideal medicine for manipulating people and yet...!
I'm handing you over to the guards. You're selling the antidote from now on.
Let's go. Let's go, big brother.
I know.
We turned our backs to the girl and started walking.
As we entered the alleyway, the guards arrived at the right moment, and the girl didn't resist anymore.
The girl is no longer resisting. She's hungover again.
With a gulp, she looked as if the world had ended and the guards dragged her away.
''I'd better get this potion analyzed by the saintly lady.
I'm sure Our Lady would know how to detoxify you.
"Don't you drink?
'I've changed my mind. Love isn't something to be tested, you know. Mr. Leggy.
"Love is meant to be exchanged.
Iris and Reggie exchange glances and chuckle at each other.
Totally. You're not nervous.
"Come and see. "Lord Death.
"No, no, I was just pretending to be a wall.
At the end of the alleyway, "Lord Death," which had been hiding in a box shape, shuffled and turned into a horse again.
We put the slime in it and started to run towards the house.
It's good night. It's a good day. Iris-chan.
I'm sorry to hear that.
"The bath is ready for you. "I've taken a bath.
'Yes, I suppose so. I'm afraid Iris is sweating, too.
"Don't tell everyone. Big sister, alter-ego, knight-errant, maidenhead.
"" ""........................""
So we took a bath and had a good night.
Then we made a plan for the future.
We know that the martial arts tournament in Metekal is in trouble.
We knew that the martial arts tournament at Metecal was in trouble, so we had to hurry up and meet up with Rita and Leticia.
With that in mind, I went to sleep.
The next morning, as I was getting ready to leave...
Big brother! A letter has been sent to the Ilgafa lord's house!
...... from Rita and Letitia?
That's not .......
If it was a letter from the two of us, it would be arriving at this house.
A letter from us coming to the House of the Lord of Ilgafa, say, a letter about us.
Don't tell me you're the Princess Claudia of Charity!
'Your answer, sir! Big brother!
Iris spread the royal sealed parchment on the living room table.
On it...
''I would like to respond to your inquiry.
The martial arts competition being held in the commercial city of Metekal is to counter the Demon King.
I'm sorry, but I'm not involved in this matter.
We have investigated it here, but we couldn't find out any details about it.
All I know is that the winner has already been decided now, before the event.
The winner is Count Gervis, Lord of the Northern Town of Hermilt.
The runner-up was Volfried, the holy swordsman.
Third place went to the black swordsman, Tanaka-Koga.
That's it.
The Ally of the Sea Dragon, Claudia-League Nadal.
Do we know who's going to finish third from the winner?
'What does it mean? Big brother.
'I don't know. I don't know. ......
I'll just have to go.
I'm not interested in martial arts competitions, but I'm worried about Rita and Letitia.
So I have a proposition for Iris.
Iris held up one finger with a snap.
My father told me. "My father told me that if you want, I can arrange a 'metecal tour' for you.
"'Metecal Sightseeing Tour'?
''If 'Sea Dragon Hero' is going to Metekal, he wants to prepare a carriage and lodging for you as a thank you for this incident. He will also provide us with a temporary identification card as well.
Iris held out a small plate in front of me.
It's an identification card used by the guards of the port city of Ilgafa.
The name is written on the surface. "Melody Rutkal.
He's spoofing the name of the mysterious Thief Melody and the name of 'Kerkator the Sea Dragon' to make it his last name.
"We've prepared one for you and your brother. Please.
"I'm 'Nagir-Rutkal'?
'There's one for Aine, and one for me.' 'There's even one for Fynn?'
And by the way, we all share the same last name.
Your last name?
Yes. Polygamy, so to speak.
"'Let's go!'
It was unanimous.
Of course, we have IDs for Rita and Leticia.
We'll find them and retrieve them as tour partners.
That way, we should be able to protect them both safely.
I wonder what kind of tour is hosted by the ...... lord.
That's okay. Iris is supervising.
I don't know if I can do this.
Of course. We won't let you down!
Iris bent her thin arms and posed with her gut.
Thus, we were going on a "Metecal Sightseeing Tour" organized by the port city of Ilgafa.
Meanwhile, a mysterious suspicious person...'...... Funny. How did this happen!She shouted as she drove through the city at night.It was more than ten days ago that she invaded the port city of Ilgafa.The purpose was to check the effectiveness of a certain 'potion'.The potion she was in charge of selling was effective enough.I had to return immediately and contact my fellow "alchemists"...You there, stop!Suddenly, I heard a shout.A few guards were standing out of the darkness.'How can they get ahead of us!How come they're aware of my existence!She pauses involuntarily.It was still strange.I wasn't making any strange movements myself.I just came to see the reaction of those who drank the 'potion'.So ...... why am I being identified as a suspicious person?I want to talk to you. About this town's outbreak of 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome'.......I can't let myself get caught here.Thinking this, she pulled out a metal tube from her pocket.She opened the lid and drank the contents in one gulp.I'll show you. The power of a potion that a brave man should drink before a russian boss!And she released her power.Nagi's point of view.'Ooohhhhhh!I heard a scream.At the same time, a communication comes in from Fynn.In the image she sent me - the prowler and the guard had begun to engage in a battle.Moreover, the suspicious person is stronger.The guard's siege is about to be broken through....... Were we not the only ones who noticed that prowler?Come to think of it, the guards were also at the scene of the 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome'.Because they smoothly neutralized the "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people, the guards may have had time to notice the suspicious person.As a result of trying to call them off - it seems that they have entered into a state of engagement.'Aine stayed in the lord's house as it is. Cutlass, come closer to us. With the help of Fynn's power, continue the reconnaissance from the air.I send a message to Aine and Cutlass.I get a reply from Aine. It's information from the lord's house.Testimony from a fellow member of the "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" peopleThe fellow who went out of control was drinking a potion for the interview.Additional informationThey were instructed to drink it and get their bodies used to it so that they wouldn't get nervous during the interview.InformationThe interview, in any case, focuses on the willingness to defeat the Demon King. The informationThe information sent to me is all that shows the connection between 'Demon King Deficiency' and the 'Interview Preparation Potion'.I knew I had to talk to that suspicious person.''Iris, hold on tightly behind me. The other guy is trying to run out of town. I'll get there first.Yes, sir. Big brother!Totally.I'm trying to live comfortably over here and I don't want you to cause a ruckus near my ...... house.If you want to fight the Demon Lord, why don't you just go find him?I'm not going to stop you. I just think you should do what you want. I don't think you should have a martial arts tournament.So why do you need to sell these mysterious self-promotional statements and interview potions?The goal is to defeat the Demon King, right? You don't need to interject a ritual that could cause trouble!''If you want to deal with the Demon Lord, you should get the detailed data on that Demon Lord out of the screen first: ......A screen, sir?Big brother.It's a story about my world. In this world, the king asked the adventurers, 'The demon king of this story is in trouble when he attacks people. The king asked an adventurer to catch him. Then, the adventurer replied, 'First of all, take the demon king out of the story'.I understand.Iris replied while holding my hand.''The Demon King of this world could be like an illustration of a picture story.'Both the king and the nobles of this country are taking measures against the demon king in case the demon king comes out of the illustrations. But the Demon King hasn't come out, and there's no organization trying to bring out the Demon King. ......What would you do if you were my brother?Hmm?'For example, if your brother is the one who knows that the Demon King isn't there and is on the side of the Demon King countermeasures.If it were me, I'd be ...... right. Assuming there is no Demon King, I'd create an organization that wants to resurrect the Demon King.The organization?Yeah. But I don't want them to do it. After that, the organization that plans to resurrect the Demon King has emerged. That means the Demon Lord is trying to come back. I'll make a lot of noise and gather a budget and people to help me. After that, I'll collapse the organization that looks like it, and then I'll pretend that I've prevented the Demon King from returning.That would attract both budget and human resources. ......I don't think a royal or nobleman would go that far, though.I know.........................Me and Iris looked at each other.I'm running with Iris towards the town gates.I'm not on foot. I'm riding "Lord Death" in "Horse Mode".Aine took it out of her storage skill "Big Sister's Treasure Chest" and sent it over to me.Feen has confirmed that there's no one else around.He also hides us in Ilisu's Illusionary Space. We have to stay out of sight."Demon Lord or not, Iris won't tolerate people using drugs to manipulate others.Iris stuck to my back and mumbled.'If you forget yourself after you drink, it means you forget your love for your brother!I will eradicate such a potion from the world for taking away Iris' most precious thought!That's why?'Of course!That potion user is the enemy of all girls!'No, that's not a good theory, maiden girl.The Magic Sword Leggy trembled at my back.''Is your love for the Lord forgotten after a mere drink of the potion?Haha!'Shouldn't we prove our love for the Lord by drinking it, rather than the other way around?......, sure.'And if the Lord empowered you with your sanity intact, wouldn't you be able to take your Lord's resistance and set him free? ...... Wouldn't you be thirsty?The little girl will set the big Lord free. She's going to crawl into the Lord's bed, tear off her clothes, and do this and that.Big brother!We'll definitely get this enemy!...... Yeah.And then take a sample of the potion you took and use it when Iris can't resist...That's dismissed!"Oh no, oh no!Why are your voices humming, Iris and Reggie?"My lord. I see the enemy, that I do.Suddenly, Lord Death murmured.The blue slime is sticking out of the gap in the horse's body.The blue slime has stuck with me this long. I'll have to give them an extra reward later.We'll be in touch in a few minutes, that I'm sure. What would you like to do?"Lord Death, go into 'box mode' and hide. The slimes are with him."All right.''Iris and Reggie, come with me. If they use the potion, Iris' 'illusory space' will be useful.'Yes, sir.' 'Mm!I understand.We are near the gates of the port city of Irgafa.We hide the box-shaped Lord Death in an alleyway and step out onto the main street.Of course, I've already put my hood on and disguised myself.Iris is in mystery shifu 'Melody' mode." Mm.A figure running down the street stopped in its tracks.He has a hood over his head, hiding his face.He wears a silver bracelet on each arm. His hair is red.It's just like the picture Fynn sent me.'It's ......, you guys.The figure drew two swords from his waist.'It doesn't appear to be the guards. Let me see if I can get through there.We're assisting Kelkator, the sea dragon.Help?''Yeah. The sea dragons are in charge of the sea side. As its companion, I'll be in charge of the land side over here. Only in my spare time.The person in front of me doesn't move, holding the sword in both hands.He seems to be wary of the word 'sea dragon'.''Besides, we have guards over here who are willing to help us.Mmmm?Thump thump.Soldiers in armor appear from the alleyway.A total of 12 people.They stand side by side, holding spears and shields, as if to protect me and Iris."Currently, the port city of Irgapha is in a great deal of trouble because of the 'Demon Lord Deficiency'.I said, "So today, the guards and we were all on high alert.That's why the guards and I were on high alert today," he said. And we found the same person witnessing the Demon King's Deficiency Syndrome being triggered. You have to be able to watch the person who developed the disease go out of control and then leave. That was you....... Ah, so that's what it means.'The guards you called off, you took down the guards without question and came here. That's why we're here to talk to you. That's why we're sitting here talking to you.I grabbed the hilt of the Demon Sword Leggy.''Demon king deficiency disease, martial arts competitions, and demon king countermeasuresif you know anything about these, please tell me. If you don't know anything about them...No, he knows. Yes, I know!The figure flipped off the hood.The person who appeared was a woman with red hair.An unfamiliar face. Her lips were fished up and she was looking at me with challenging eyes.'But you're not going to tell me!A softling who relies on the guards!The girl spat out.Her lips twitched in a mocking smile and she pointed the tip of her sword towards me.'Are you not ashamed of yourself, you!...... Huh?The swordsman is the vanguard. The vanguard is the one who fights and defeats the enemy head on. That's what my potion is for. I'm not going to talk to a man who's blustering under the protection of the guards!I see. So I'm pretty sure you're the one with the potion.Shut up!You can't stand on the windward side of a swordsman!'Swordsman's Windward: ......'No proud man would call in the guards!'No, that's not the logic. That's coming from a guy who's handing out questionable potions.'I'm talking about being ready to fight!The girl took out a metal tube from the leather bag on her back.That's the 'interview preparation potion' that the people with 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome' were drinking, right?''A swordsman is one who stands on the front line and fights. I have that pride. If you use the guards as shields, I will use this potion and fight you to the death!...... er.The girl has a straight face. Apparently she is serious.I wonder what it is. I wonder if she has brain muscles.'So, if the guards aren't there, will you accept me as an equal partner?Yeah. Yeah. If you're brave enough.Can you tell me what you know?Ha. Very well. If you have the courage to face me without the guards, I will answer to you. But they have a job to do. You can't afford to do that. So....Yes, sir. Guards, please stand back.'I'm going to go on and on,'I say, and the guards leave across the alley.'............ Huh?'Huh?Huh?Where are the guards?He's gone....... eh, eh, eh?On the road, it would be just me, Iris, and the girl with the twin swords again.The moment the soldiers entered the alley - the girl's blind spot, they disappeared in a flash."End of ...... activation. "Illusionary SpaceIris murmurs softly next to me.The people who were here earlier were the illusory soldiers that Iris created.I thought they would give up and surrender when they saw the army of soldiers, but I guess it had the opposite effect.Well, I got what I wanted to say.We're not the ones being protected by the guards, now are we?I said.'You're proud, aren't you?That's the pride of being a vanguard, right?Please tell me. Did you give out the 'Demon King Deficiency' potion?What is its purpose?How do I get the one who drank the potion back?...... gumbo.The twin swordswoman is clenching her teeth.'All right. So you want to fight one on one, I suppose!No, that's not what I'm talking about. Talk.'I'll use this potion to spare you that resolve!The girl took out a metal tube from the package on her back.She took the lid off and fanned the contents at once.'...... Iris, ...... brother.'Me and Iris exchange glances.I've seen this coming. I've timed it to coincide with..."Whoa, whoa, whoa!The next moment, a scarlet aura erupted from the girl's body."This is the 'Potion for the hero to drink in front of the boss'. With this, you guys can drink it in an instant..."'Oh!There's a demon king in that place!''What?Me and Iris pointed to an alleyway.The illusory Demon King was standing there.''Demon King, Maaaaaaaaaaah!"'I held back!'?I thought you'd react to the pseudo-food demon king like the rest of us!The twin-sworded girl is stomping the ground, holding back as she runs towards the alley.''Oh, of course. I'm not like the failed 'Teppo Dama Yuusha'."Shotgun Hero?You know, the ones you see in stories and stuff. The guy who gets carried away and goes against the demon king or mid-boss, and gets killed easily. They are reasonably strong, but they get carried away and go head to head with someone who is not as strong as they should be. This is what the true heroes call this kind of person, the 'gunslinger'.'Wait for ....... There's something wrong with what you're saying.This guy was handing out potions to people in the 'martial arts tournament'.He admits that to himself.And yet, he looks down on the person who went out of control due to 'Demon King Deficiency', calling him a 'gunball'."Didn't you mean to say that the potion was used to create that 'gunball hero'?Do you mean to tell me that you've gone to the trouble of handing out pills that make people go crazy?Me and Iris screamed at the same time.No, I don't know what you mean. I really don't.Why do you need to create such a thing as a 'gunball hero'?Because it takes a noble sacrifice for a brave man to achieve glory.The girl said.''If it weren't for the beings who fought so hard and scattered for the defeat of the Demon King, the heroes wouldn't stand out. There is only one party that can defeat the Demon King. The other brave mods must scatter brilliantly. To do that, I'll create an environment where people will pay attention to the Demon King!After that groundwork is laid, the legend, the defeat of the Demon King, will begin!'You don't mean that's what the 'martial arts competition' is for?'No more questions!Let's go!The girl gulped down another potion again.The aura that covered her body grew stronger.''Fuu, fuu. Whew! !The girl starts kicking the ground, snorting like a fighting bull.I grabbed my magic sword, Leggy.The opponent's weapons are two short swords.You can use Jusui Kenjutsu to parry an attack, but it's impossible to do both swords at the same time.When the first sword is deflected, the second attack comes.In that case, you'll have no choice but to maintain your timing and fight: ......'Oooohhhhhh!A girl starts running on the ground.With tremendous speed, she runs straight at us.I'll just measure the distance between us and...White. Nice to meet you."Hi. I thought we were going to activate it. "Shirdo!A translucent barrier occurred in front of me and Iris.Gogon!...... gugu?The red-haired girl slammed into the 'shiurdo' from its face.Going around its side, I swung my magic sword Reggie.''Chiii!Crunch.The girl jumps back. The magic sword leggy only grazed her.''What the hell was that skill?"Well,Me and Iris nod our heads.The girl is wary and doesn't come close. It's now or never.'Leggy!'Oh!Activate the Condition Changer!A figure-sized Leggy appears on my shoulder.At the same time, there's a roulette wheel in front of me.The game is decided by the timing of the Leggy."You have a lot of responsibility. Lord.'Yeah. But I have a feeling it's going to be okay, somehow.'Is that so?Big brother.'Up until now, the 'Condition Change Slash Condition Changer' has had an effect based on the opponent's condition.The Winglizard, with wings made of leather, has an "itch" on his skin hifu.The one who was trying to cast a spell had a sneeze.The big slime has a whiff of cold and its body shrinks.'Body Condition Change Slash Condition Changer' is a level 4 cheat skill.Even if the damage is small, the effect on the body is huge.So, my opponent right now is a hard-drunkard who takes a lot of potions.All right. Iris. I know what to expect."Pop. Tsk, tsk.Leggy's finger stops the roulette.The letters displayed are..."The Hangover"'...... I knew it''Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee'Oh. The potion user is cowering.I've been doping quite a bit. So that's the feedback that's coming.When I drink too much alcohol, I get high and the hangover downer comes the next day.This potion also makes me stronger after drinking, but then I have zero energy and strength.The "Demon King Deficiency Syndrome" people, they were limp after they were caught.When that feeling of weakness comes all at once, that's when you'll feel sick ................... Ugh, it's disgusting. It's weird. It's weird. ......The potion user girl sits down, spitting out all the potions she drank.She looks at us and tries to get up, but she just flops down.It's a match....... Ugh, oh.So, tell me a story, then.I said."About the secrets of 'Demon King Deficiency Syndrome', 'Martial Arts Tournament' and 'Potion'. Everything.Then.The potion user girl who had lost her combat power began to talk about what she knew.As expected, 'Demon King Deficiency' was a side effect of the potion she gave out.She was selling the potions to adventurers as a way to prepare for the interview for the 'Martial Arts Tournament'.Of course, the adventurers of this world have never written a 'self-promotional letter'. She's never had an 'interview' either.Her 'substitute writing' and 'interview preparation potions' were said to be very popular.But she changed the potions she sold to different customers.For the general customers, she sold shoddy products that had the side effects of 'Demon King is Nega'.For the upperclassmen, she would sell the same high class products that she herself used.It was because she had the goal of 'enlivening the martial arts tournament by any means necessary'.The tournament would be more exciting if it became a battle between heroes with extrahuman powers.It seems that even the "Demon King Lack" in "The Demon King is Here" was an expression of her desire to defeat the Demon King and she intended to use it to liven up the event.And...The port city of Irgafa refused to voluntarily fund the martial arts tournament, so they wanted ...... to get even.Isn't funding a ...... martial arts tournament free?"It was a free but invested atmosphere. It's inexcusable not to read that air - and that's what my client client said."Client?............ This is Count Gervis, the ruler of the northern city of Hermilt."'I see.'Me, Iris, and Reggie nodded.A lord who belongs to the 'Original Brave Guild' would say something like that.That's amazing.You're going to this extent for the martial arts competition and the brave. ......''One more question. Are you a 'visitor'?Did you use those skills to create 'potions'?"I know ...... such things exist ...... but I'm not ....... I made the potion: .......What did you make?The girl looked away.All right, let's get another copy of The Sword That Hungover...Okay, all right. Okay, I'll tell you. I'll tell you!The girl frantically shakes and replies, "I received the potion from the 'alchemist' in charge of combating the demon king.''I received the potion from the 'alchemist' in charge of combating the demon king....... Is there such a department as the one in charge of combating the Demon King?Yeah. That's what my boss, the alchemist, said.Even at ......, is there really a demon king?'I heard there's a picture figure at the alchemists' headquarters. They made a potion to respond to it, so it must be ...... true.Since when does this alchemist have an anti-demonic countermeasure?...... Come on, man. I'm told it's been decades.The Demon King didn't come out during that time, did he?There's no indication that he's not there.Yeah, but...''I heard that those alchemists update the 'Beware of the Demon Lord' document every ten years. If it weren't for the Demon King, why would they have to do that?Are they spreading the Demon King story themselves?But you have no proof that the Demon King isn't there, right?'But even so, you're doing it wrong. Selling potions that make people go wild and make martial arts tournaments more exciting to counter the Demon King.What these guys might want is the "concept" of a Demon King.They won't be convinced even if I show them the "Lord Death".On the contrary, they'd be proud to say, "See, there he is. It's the Demon King." It looks like he's going to be proud of his victory.This is my last question.There's a transmission from Fynn.The guards have armed themselves and are coming towards us.It would be troublesome if they find us, so it's best to sneak a word to the captain and leave the rest to him.Do the words 'Devil's Body' ring any bells?Come on.Oh, yeah?So, how do you know the Demon King isn't there?Prove that he's there or not there, that's your business. It's not our business.Me and Iris backed away from the potion user girl.But I won't allow you to mess with our town. We are the Dragon's Family, and we are the guardians of this town. I'm sure you're not going to be able to get away with it. That's all."............ hmm.Then the potion-using girl lowered her eyes.Between us and her is a large leather bag.It's the one the girl was carrying on her back. There's a lot of tubes with potions inside.We received a dozen samples. So, okay.'Se-no!"Delayed combat...The blade of the giant demon sword Leggy smashed all the potions with the leather bag.''Gya!The girl, who had been unconcerned, starts screaming.'Oh, the devil!Oh, my God. How could you do that!This is the ideal medicine for manipulating people and yet...!I'm handing you over to the guards. You're selling the antidote from now on.Let's go. Let's go, big brother.I know.We turned our backs to the girl and started walking.As we entered the alleyway, the guards arrived at the right moment, and the girl didn't resist anymore.The girl is no longer resisting. She's hungover again.With a gulp, she looked as if the world had ended and the guards dragged her away.''I'd better get this potion analyzed by the saintly lady.I'm sure Our Lady would know how to detoxify you."Don't you drink?'I've changed my mind. Love isn't something to be tested, you know. Mr. Leggy."Love is meant to be exchanged.Iris and Reggie exchange glances and chuckle at each other.Totally. You're not nervous."Come and see. "Lord Death."No, no, I was just pretending to be a wall.At the end of the alleyway, "Lord Death," which had been hiding in a box shape, shuffled and turned into a horse again.We put the slime in it and started to run towards the house.It's good night. It's a good day. Iris-chan.I'm sorry to hear that."The bath is ready for you. "I've taken a bath.'Yes, I suppose so. I'm afraid Iris is sweating, too."Don't tell everyone. Big sister, alter-ego, knight-errant, maidenhead."" ""........................""So we took a bath and had a good night.Then we made a plan for the future.We know that the martial arts tournament in Metekal is in trouble.We knew that the martial arts tournament at Metecal was in trouble, so we had to hurry up and meet up with Rita and Leticia.With that in mind, I went to sleep.The next morning, as I was getting ready to leave...Big brother!A letter has been sent to the Ilgafa lord's house!...... from Rita and Letitia?That's not .......If it was a letter from the two of us, it would be arriving at this house.A letter from us coming to the House of the Lord of Ilgafa, say, a letter about us.Don't tell me you're the Princess Claudia of Charity!'Your answer, sir!Big brother!Iris spread the royal sealed parchment on the living room table.On it...''I would like to respond to your inquiry.The martial arts competition being held in the commercial city of Metekal is to counter the Demon King.I'm sorry, but I'm not involved in this matter.We have investigated it here, but we couldn't find out any details about it.All I know is that the winner has already been decided now, before the event.The winner is Count Gervis, Lord of the Northern Town of Hermilt.The runner-up was Volfried, the holy swordsman.Third place went to the black swordsman, Tanaka-Koga.That's it.The Ally of the Sea Dragon, Claudia-League Nadal.Do we know who's going to finish third from the winner?'What does it mean? Big brother.'I don't know. I don't know. ......I'll just have to go.I'm not interested in martial arts competitions, but I'm worried about Rita and Letitia.So I have a proposition for Iris.Iris held up one finger with a snap.My father told me. "My father told me that if you want, I can arrange a 'metecal tour' for you."'Metecal Sightseeing Tour'?''If 'Sea Dragon Hero' is going to Metekal, he wants to prepare a carriage and lodging for you as a thank you for this incident. He will also provide us with a temporary identification card as well.Iris held out a small plate in front of me.It's an identification card used by the guards of the port city of Ilgafa.The name is written on the surface. "Melody Rutkal.He's spoofing the name of the mysterious Thief Melody and the name of 'Kerkator the Sea Dragon' to make it his last name."We've prepared one for you and your brother. Please."I'm 'Nagir-Rutkal'?'There's one for Aine, and one for me.' 'There's even one for Fynn?'And by the way, we all share the same last name.Your last name?Yes. Polygamy, so to speak."'Let's go!'It was unanimous.Of course, we have IDs for Rita and Leticia.We'll find them and retrieve them as tour partners.That way, we should be able to protect them both safely.I wonder what kind of tour is hosted by the ...... lord.That's okay. Iris is supervising.I don't know if I can do this.Of course. We won't let you down!Iris bent her thin arms and posed with her gut.Thus, we were going on a "Metecal Sightseeing Tour" organized by the port city of Ilgafa.
