Chapter 86: Episode 86 "Three barrages of cheat skills were enough to overwhelm the army.".txt
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A procession of soldiers was advancing toward the Valley of the Mist.
In the center of the procession was a girl wearing a white and silver breastplate.
Her name is Carmina-Rigilta. She is the only daughter of a county family.
Carmina ducked her crimson cloak and shouted, "Come on, slaves!
''Come on, slaves, go ahead! Don't you want your freedom!
At the head of the procession are the slaves who have been hastily bought up.
There are 12 of them. Their weapons are sturdy sticks. Just before entering the valley, they are to be temporarily strengthened with magic. They are to be temporarily strengthened with magic just before entering the valley, so that they can fight the demons. But until then, they should not be able to escape or go against it.
Behind the line of slaves, soldiers with spears at the ready scowled.
Carmina nodded in satisfaction and shouted.
'If you had successfully defeated the enemy in the Mist of Deception, you would have 'contracted' to terminate the master-servant contract on the spot and guarantee your freedom! Slaves, if you want your freedom, work!
'Dear Carmina. Are you really going to send these slaves to us?
A bearded soldier walking beside me asks me.
He's been a chaperone since he was little. Carmina calls him "Grandpa".
There's a demon inside, isn't there? At the very least, the slaves should have the same armor as the soldiers.
We don't have time for this, Grandpa. If you hesitate here, you'll see what that baronet will do to you: ......
Carmina scratched her nails.
If it were true, she should have conquered the valley with the prince and the baroness, as well as the prince's attendant, 'The Wise Man', and the valley. But before that, I want to accomplish something. I can't afford to lose to that Viscountess.
''Let me ask you the opposite. Grandfather. From your perspective as a successive soldier, is my strategy wrong?
...... No.
An old soldier advancing beside Carmina shook his head with a bitter face.
''What we need right now is information about the Misty Valley. The best way to do that is to send people in. However, if we injure the regular soldiers by fighting each other, we will undermine the Count family's strength. Hence, the slaves are sent ahead of the others. The least amount of damage, the most amount of work.
There was no one who could argue with Carmina's words.
The Countess of Rigilta has been supporting the 8th Prince Clavis for some time now.
The League Nadal royal family is achievement-based. How good you are determines the territory and status you will be given after you come of age. The prince needs to perform well and acquire a larger territory or he will be in trouble.
Otherwise, they won't get their money back.
''I 'contracted' with the slaves that 'if you defeat the demons in the mist, I will give you enough reward and freedom to dissolve the master-servant contract. It would be a great reward. There should be no complaints.
The reason I put the condition of emancipation on the slaves was because "Grandfather" told me to be picky. Otherwise, he said, the Countess would fall into disrepute. He said he was in mortal danger and should be rewarded appropriately. That's why we made a troublesome contract.
And yet "Grandpa" is forever languishing .......
"The actual battlefield doesn't go as you imagine it to, young lady.
'It doesn't matter if we succeed or not! Even if it doesn't work out, it would be enough to show His Highness Clavis that you tried, wouldn't it?
At Carmina's words, "Grandpa" sighed in resignation.
The ranks proceeded on.
Eventually, the beast path opens up. On either side, it becomes a sheer cliff.
Carmina stopped the ranks a little before the valley.
'Get ready. I will send the slaves into the valley, as soon as possible.
'I am concerned that the scouts have not returned. Miss.
I know, sir. But we can't afford to fall behind.
The face of the Viscountess comes to Carmina's mind.
The girl who was supposed to party with the prince and enter the 'Valley of the Mist'. She and the prince are close to each other. I'm not letting my guard down. And I can never lose.
We get all sorts of information from the employees of the Viscount's family that we have acquired. That she is buying up slaves. That she asks adventurers to do quests in secret. Carmina has not underestimated her. It's best for us to take action before they do.
We will not go near the valley. We will only let the slaves move in front of us. Soldiers, watch both sides. If you see any suspicious shadows, shoot your arrows.
The lead soldier pushed the slaves back.
The slaves were dressed in slave uniforms and held up sticks as long as they were tall.
Their ages were in their early teens. Men and women scattered. We didn't have much time, so we chose them only on the basis of their health.
'Now proceed to the valley, slaves. To freedom.
...... Yes. Dear Carmina.
The slaves start to walk towards the entrance of the valley.
The ground is hard earth. Pebbles are scattered on it and sparse trees grow on it. There is no barrier between the slaves and the soldiers. In any case, there is no way to escape.
Giving up, the slaves walk off at a brisk pace.
Their feet suddenly stop.
'Oh, fearless fool! Do you not know that this valley is about to collapse?
A voice said.
''This is the place where the Heavenly Dragon sleeps. He doesn't want people to disturb his sleep, so he has decided to destroy this valley. ''I warn you foolish people,'' he said. Leave this place immediately. There is nothing in this place that you desire.
A figure stood at the entrance to the Misty Valley.
They were behind an iron fence, set up by the royal family. There are four of them. Because of the fog, I couldn't see their faces.
''Adventurers who don't read the air. I told you that His Highness Kravis would capture this place!
Carmina spat.
─ The valley will collapse? Speaking of which, I think I hear the earth rumbling.
Then we must hurry.
If that happens, the information obtained here will be for Carmina alone. That should be an advantage in the battle for the prince. Even if the valley collapses, it doesn't mean that all the slaves will die. They could at least 'order' the ones that were still breathing to get the information out of them.
'Proceed. Slaves. Fight! This is an 'order'!
Carmina touched the ring on her left hand.
At the same time, the wizard who was mixed with the soldiers cast a strengthening spell on the slave's stick.
The ensuing attack spell fired destroys the iron fence blocking the path to the valley.
'Approach the enemy and pass the information to me. I repeat. This is an order from Carmina-Rigilta.
You get information with a stone's throw away.
As a tactic, it's perfectly correct. It's textbook. I've been taught strategy and tactics.
Carmina was a good student. There was no room for error.
"Step forward, slaves! You will serve me with that blood!
Is that what they say about hiring people...?
Slyly, something moved in the fog.
A white thing.
A huge thing.
Something that was slowly rising from the ground.
Carmina and the soldiers stopped moving.
A dragon-shaped bone was trying to get up.
There was no flesh, no skin. No skin. Not even scales.
It was a pure white, beautiful 'dragon bone'.
A horned skull was attached to the end of its long neck. It's also too huge.
The only thing coming out of the fog was the head and neck. Even so, it's about the size of a little tower. If it's only a head and neck, then the size of its entire body is...
It would be just the right size to wear the wings of a celestial dragon in the town of Sharka.
''No way ...... that's the bones of a celestial dragon. Do you really think that this is the Heavenly Dragon's graveyard!
''Miss. Let's get the slaves back.
Why? Grandfather?
''The celestial dragon used to be on the side of man. You must not point your weapons at him!
Oh, I see. Grandpa doesn't know.
Why was the prince and his party aiming to capture this "Valley of the Mist"?
If it weren't for the rumors of the Heavenly Dragon's Shadow, the prince wouldn't have bothered to come to this place.
''Go, slaves! If that's really the body of a celestial dragon, I should get a piece of it.
Miss!
"Soldiers, fire your arrows! They only want that unseen figure!
The soldiers are told to grab their arrows for their bows. Release.
Dozens of arrows fly towards the shadows below the Bone Heavenly Dragon.
''How dare you let your men do the dirty work and not move from their safe place?
The Bone of the Dragon said.
"Shame on you.
His mouth, not a speck of flesh on it, opened and bared his pure white teeth.
'If you're going to force a job on someone else, you better prove you can do it!
Gulp, the wind rang.
Small tornadoes were created on either side of the 'dragon's bones'.
"Magic 'whirlwind barrier'. Miss.
''I know. That low level of magic should be able to prevent this number of arrows ──── eh? Huh? Whoa, whoa, whoa ────────!
Whoa.
Geez.
The Dragon's Bones, which leaned on its head at the entrance of the valley.
The tornadoes born on either side of it grew huge.
What was once the size of a man became the size of a giant, and even bigger to cover the entrance to the valley.
"What is this...? The Wrath of the Heavenly Dragon? "Only a court magician should be able to use this kind of magic...?
The soldiers scream from the strong headwind that slaps their faces.
The arrows they fired were bounced back and tumbled underneath the soldiers' feet. Even the magic can't break through that wind and disappear. The trees around me creak. Leaves scatter. Branches snap. It is truly a storm worthy of the authority of a celestial dragon.
............You can't expect ............ to do this.
It's impossible.
All Carmina and the others heard about the 'Heavenly Dragon's Shadow'.
They didn't hear about the main body turning into undead and resurrecting.
"Move along, Dorothea...! 'Orders'!
There was a tremendous headwind, and I couldn't move forward. Neither myself nor my men.
But the ring's compulsion is stronger than you think.
If we give up now, all the money we've spent will have been for nothing. I've got to earn every penny I can. Keep going! You must fight those foul things and bring back information to me and Prince Kravis.
Carmina grabbed the 'contract' ring and ordered the slaves to do it.
It was unexpected and my mind was blank - that's all I could think of to say.
''It would have been so much easier if you'd gone home with this.
From the entrance of the valley where we are, we can clearly see the soldiers' movements.
The Countess and her soldiers are working hard at the edge of the valley.
The slaves are struggling to get to us, but they're pushing themselves too hard.
I see them leaning forward, crawling towards us. He's got a look of horror on his face.
I wonder why they're making me do that. ......
It was Iris's 'Illusory Space LV1' that made the Bone Heavenly Dragon. I said I was fine with a normal Heavenly Dragon Modoki, but Iris said, "This one is more intimidating! But he didn't shake it.
"'Oh, how foolishly the aristocracy has fallen - the descendants of the heroes who once built this country.'
Next to me, Iris is manipulating the 'dragon bone' with a twinkle in her eye.
It seems to be able to make the apparition speak while using the skill. Just as Iris said, the Dragon Bones emit a wrinkled voice, shaking the air and making the assembled nobles and soldiers tremble. But I think generating human bones on the ground is a bit much. It's Iris's hobby.
''Very well! Curses and rewards to those who disturb my sleep: ────!
Iris jumps with her arms raised.
I'm sweating all over, but I'm in a good mood.
The bone-like Tenryu Modoki is screaming at us as it hovers over our heads.
Because it is an illusion, it has neither offensive nor defensive powers.
The thing protecting us was Rafilia's Dragon Seed Whirlwind LV1.
It's about the size of an eight-story building. It's spinning on either side of the dragon's bones, winding up the air around it.
I'm sure you'll be able to find out more about it.
That's why we're all snuggled up together, as if defending Iris and Cecil.
"That's 40% of your magic consumption. Do you want more?
It's good enough as it is.
'If we can increase the magic consumption to 80%, we can get the soldiers involved in the range.
I don't care. I'm not here to kill those guys.
Killing doesn't change the way the nobles do things.
So, we give them fear.
The kind of trauma that if you try to get someone to "work in black" you will instantly be reminded of this time.
If that fear gets through to the rest of the aristocracy, it might change this world a bit. Let them "work in black" and they'll show up with a working labor department! Or something like that.
'Well then, Cecil, I need your help.
Yes. Mr. Nagi.
When I said that, Cecil mumbled with a bright red face and closed his eyes, "Huh," he said.
'Please play ...... 'gutai' with me,'
I think that's something I'm going to ask you to do.
"......For me, it's a 'reward' to be touched by Nagi,
Cecil looks embarrassed, holding his face in his hands.
'Yeah. 'Okay. Then just tell me and I'll do it whenever you want.
I'll tell you what I'll do if you go to ......
I put my hand on Cecil's chest.
"Huh. ...... Ah.
Just bear with me for a minute, Cecil.
I connected the "thread of magic" to Cecil's chest.
Because of the use of the Quick Structure, I'm connected to Iris and Rafilia with the magical thread. That's why I'll be using the magical thread to supply Cecil with magical power as well. Otherwise, the three of us will be stuck in close quarters, so we won't be able to move.
But this time we're going to use a new ancient language magic.
The key is the Countess' "contract" that says "defeat the enemy in the fog and the slave will be set free". We'll take advantage of that.
I'll take control of the magic. Cecil, focus on chanting and maintaining the magic.
'I understand. Nagi-sama, I'll go to ......!
Cecil inhales with a "swoosh". The little lips begin to chant.
''That's the Warriors we call from the spirit world.''
A beautiful voice spells out the magic of the ancient language.
A voice in the ancient language begins to form a spell: "...a scarlet beast, clothed in fire, which I will use against you! I will use you. Listen to my voice, and let me and my master's voice. Listen to my voice, my master's voice. There is a way, and it is the master's messenger, and that is the bond between me and the master. It is by the bond between me and my master.
A window opened in front of me.
This time, I didn't just watch. I have to participate in the unfolding of the magic as well.
The ancient language Cecil is chanting, "Fire Spirit Summoning "Samoning Elemental"", is such a magic (・・・・・・).
In the window, there are 18 icons in the shape of a fire spirit (salamander), and the parameters are displayed below it. There's also a meter that lets you select the amount of magic to be poured into each body.
Next to the parameters, there's an 'average' button. Selecting this seems to distribute the magic power evenly.
But ...... just for the sake of it.
"'Ye are my army. You are my soldiers. By the ancient covenant, come, come, come!'
Cecil's clean silver hair is sticking to his brown skin from sweat.
We've worked him so hard, we have to make sure he doesn't waste it.
...... That's right. Let's use that trick, which was forbidden in the original world game.
Even I didn't do it. It's a move that would be certified as a shitty game for sure if you did it. Let's use it to free the slaves and send a message to the nobles and soldiers.
"'Lower class, but strongest among the ancient tongues... 'Fire Spirit Summoning [Samoning Elemental]'!
And when Cecil's chanting was complete...
We were surrounded by 18 winged fire lizards - fire nymphs - that were called salamanders.
"This is going to kill you, Sula.
This is going to kill you, Leela.
Seeing a group of incoming salamanders, the lid slave girl readied her weapon.
These girls were still in their early teens, bought only for the reason that they were sturdy. Their race was dwarves.
Small in stature, but sturdy and powerful.
After losing their parents, they were enslaved and sold off together to the Countess family. And they were brought here.
We were told that our job was to explore the Valley of the Mist.
They made a "contract" with us that if we defeated even one demon in the fog, they would set us free.
The slaves around me were all crying as if they had given up.
Fighting in a valley where the five senses were screwed up and people and demi-humans could see the demons meant that they had to fight each other. That's no different than slaves enjoying killing each other.
But the dwarven twins did not give up hope.
They, Sura and Leela, are twins.
Even though they had their five senses screwed up, they knew they had something to communicate with each other.
'But I can't help you with this, Sula.
Yes, this one's no match for the twins, Leela.
In front of the girls is a dragon made of huge bones, and a tornado is spinning in the heavens.
The area is smoky with dust, and from the valley, a bright red-burning fire spirit is approaching.
I want to run away, but my master's 'orders' do not allow me to do so.
I resent the strong dwarf body.
Sura and Leela are able to move forward in this storm, but little by little.
'You said these sticks were blessed,'
It's enchanted to make it harder to break.
I guess that's a good idea.
I'm not giving up hope.
Let's take them both out at once.
The fire spirit was riding on the wind, and it was approaching at once. We can't see the scenery around us. Our feet were turning white. The mist might be drifting from the valley.
"Ohhhhhhhhhhhh!
A winged fire lizard spotted them.
It continued to peck at them and raised a clawed arm in front of them.
The two closed their eyes and slammed their sticks against the salamander.
"Yea, yea,
plop
A wooden stick dug into the head of the salamander, which was covered in flames.
'Yara Letter,'
There was a pshaw, and the hit salamander disappeared.
He knocked the salamander down!
"[............] What?
tea ceremony
There was a cool sound and the 'contract collar' was removed from their bodies.
Master said, ''If you defeat the demon in the fog, I will give you enough reward to cancel the contract. That was carried out unconditionally. It was set off against the contract money.
Before I knew it, a fog was gathering at their feet. That's why the condition was fulfilled.
"Go before the mist envelops you.
When I looked up, I saw 'Dragon Bones' looking down at the two of them.
You've done your job. You don't have to work overtime. Go where you will.
""...... Tenryu-sama."
Sura and Leela couldn't help but clasp their hands together.
It was a bone, but it was scary, but the Heavenly Dragon was on their side.
He knew about the 'contract' and helped us.
''I will never forget this favor! If Tenryu-sama is in trouble, please let me know!
With that, the two run hand in hand.
Around them, the other slaves are fighting the salamanders. They are all the same. The salamander disappears with a whack, and the slaves' master-slave contract is cancelled.
'Leela!' Sula!
The dwarven girls run towards the line of countesses and soldiers.
Yes, I should thank you properly. You were my employer.
''Thank you, master. Goodbye.
The two stopped in front of their former master and bowed their heads.
''──Huh? Wait!
The master didn't seem to understand what was going on.
The dwarf girls and the other slaves were running towards the foot of the mountain.
"What, aren't salamanders just a scare tactic, gah!
The soldier who had cut at the salamander shouted as his sword was caught.
As it was, the salamander released his sword and slid away. This time, he hugged the soldier's legs. The soldier rolls around on the ground with his iron shin guards well oiled.
I double-check the salamander's parameters in the window.
Sorry. That's the one I set up for speed (・・・・・) (・・・・・・).
Even from us at the front of the valley, I can see that the soldiers are wreaking havoc.
Cecil, Iris, and Raphilia are all staring at the crowd of salamanders, maintaining their magic and skills.
A wizard emerges from the line of soldiers. He intends to use his magic to eliminate the salamanders.
''Chanting - 'Ice Arrow'!
horse-riding
The arrow fired by the rear guard wizard hit another salamander's body.
Part of the body is missing, but the salamander doesn't stop working. He pushes forward towards the enemy.
That one is the one I set up with maximum defense.
...... It's still forbidden, isn't it? "The enemy that looks exactly the same, but has completely different abilities.
When I tried this in my own game, it made me want to punch the display in the face.
Basically, in games, enemies of the same type with different abilities have different names or different colors.
In an attempt to break that promise, I created an enemy that looked exactly the same, only with a very different ability - and I understood the importance of the promise. Because I couldn't distinguish between them even by myself.
This time I used it on the 'Fire Spirit (Salamander)' that Cecil had summoned.
''Ancient Language Magic Fire Spirit Summoning 《Summoning Elemental》''
You can summon up to 18 salamanders.
Their abilities and behavioral patterns can be set at will by those supplying them with magic power.
Cecil said it's a powerful but difficult magic to control.
That's because you have to chant and maintain the magic and control the salamander at the same time.
So I decided to take care of the rest. I could average everyone's abilities and simply let them assault me, but no. Because the goal is to free the slaves and strike fear into the enemy.
With 18 salamanders, I divided them into four types.
(1) 1 HP (Hit Points), for freeing slaves. 12 of them are for emancipation.
That's the one I called to be defeated by the slaves.
Since "defeating the enemy in the fog will free you from slavery", I set his HP to 1. Specifically, it's so weak that even if you get hit by a pebble, it will disappear.
I thought that once the HP is gone, the fire spirit will be released from the summoning, so it will be considered defeated, but it looks like a success.
I was able to reduce the amount of magic power I had to allocate, so I poured that amount into the other three types.
(2) Three speed-oriented types.
I'm using my magic power to increase their speed to the limit.
Their movement and reaction speed are both at the level of a slightly quick swordsman.
My orders to these guys are 'Just avoid the attacks and hit and away!
They are instructed to go around the rear of the enemy soldiers when they see an opening.
(3) Wall. Physical Strength. Defensive strength.
Two of them have increased HP and defense, and are set to become walls.
(4) Attack power. (3) Intimidation.
A countermeasure against strong swordsmen. He's the guy you want to take down the enemy with a single blow from behind the wall.
Only the attack power has been increased to the limit.
And these four types of salamanders all look exactly the same.
Without looking at the window, even I (...) can't tell them apart (・・・・・・・・).
So you won't know who the enemies are until you try to fight them.
Moreover, the salamanders have been instructed by me to fight while swapping ranks.
So...
They're supposed to use magic to make the sword stronger, but it's hard.
It's not hard, it's fast. He can't catch up to the...
No, you don't! Don't come any closer. It'll burn your armor off with a single blow...
In fact, the movements are so slightly different that I guess I could tell them apart if I tried.
It seems impossible. The soldiers are rolling around on the ground, dropping their burnt swords and taking off their hot armor. If we don't disarm them, even if it's a little haphazard, we'll be in danger from now on.
Well, let's go finish up now.
You took away the enemy's ability to fight. It's enough.
There's a fog rolling in from the east, and it's starting to roll in around them.
Let's go home.
The dragon's bones are screaming.
'Go home! The Lord of this valley desires a quiet sleep.
Kaele, kaele, kaele, kaele! Kaele!
The salamanders are speaking in unison.
"Lady Carmina, you must retreat!
'Grandpa,' he exclaims.
Carmina knows that. This enemy is insane. It could really be a heavenly dragon emissary.
My body begins to tremble with fear.
It was a mistake to put my hands on him. I want to run away now. I want to return to the inn and tell the prince about this.
But I can't move.
The soldiers clash with the terminated slaves on the narrow mountain road, and all hell breaks loose. The light slaves climbed over the bodies of the soldiers and fled to the foot of the mountain.
'Slaves, get out of our way!
No! Touch your 'contract', young lady!
Grandfather stopped the soldier who raised his sword.
Carmina has made a 'contract' with the slaves, 'If you defeat the enemy in the mist, I will give you enough rewards and freedom to dissolve the master-slave contract'. The collar came off, and it was done. If you kill the former slaves here, you have broken the contract to give them their freedom. Carmina will be punished for the 'contract'.
After the slaves ran off, all that was left were the confused soldiers.
The soldiers, pushed and knocked down, blocked the way and the ranks could not even turn around.
'We don't have time to relax ...... Oh, the fog!
The area around the Countess had begun to turn white.
Before I knew it, the Mist of Deception was pouring out of the valley.
It was due to the tornadoes on either side of the Bone Dragon. Placed at the entrance of the valley, they were spinning outward and serving to suck the fog out of the valley.
Those tornadoes were not for defense.
It was intended to suck out the 'deceiving fog' from the valley and create a vicious ranged attack.
".........Wrapped up in the fog.
Before he knew it, the 'Mist of Deception' had completely enveloped Carmina and the soldiers.
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
A procession of soldiers was advancing toward the Valley of the Mist.
In the center of the procession was a girl wearing a white and silver breastplate.
Her name is Carmina-Rigilta. She is the only daughter of a county family.
Carmina ducked her crimson cloak and shouted, "Come on, slaves!
''Come on, slaves, go ahead! Don't you want your freedom!
At the head of the procession are the slaves who have been hastily bought up.
There are 12 of them. Their weapons are sturdy sticks. Just before entering the valley, they are to be temporarily strengthened with magic. They are to be temporarily strengthened with magic just before entering the valley, so that they can fight the demons. But until then, they should not be able to escape or go against it.
Behind the line of slaves, soldiers with spears at the ready scowled.
Carmina nodded in satisfaction and shouted.
'If you had successfully defeated the enemy in the Mist of Deception, you would have 'contracted' to terminate the master-servant contract on the spot and guarantee your freedom! Slaves, if you want your freedom, work!
'Dear Carmina. Are you really going to send these slaves to us?
A bearded soldier walking beside me asks me.
He's been a chaperone since he was little. Carmina calls him "Grandpa".
There's a demon inside, isn't there? At the very least, the slaves should have the same armor as the soldiers.
We don't have time for this, Grandpa. If you hesitate here, you'll see what that baronet will do to you: ......
Carmina scratched her nails.
If it were true, she should have conquered the valley with the prince and the baroness, as well as the prince's attendant, 'The Wise Man', and the valley. But before that, I want to accomplish something. I can't afford to lose to that Viscountess.
''Let me ask you the opposite. Grandfather. From your perspective as a successive soldier, is my strategy wrong?
...... No.
An old soldier advancing beside Carmina shook his head with a bitter face.
''What we need right now is information about the Misty Valley. The best way to do that is to send people in. However, if we injure the regular soldiers by fighting each other, we will undermine the Count family's strength. Hence, the slaves are sent ahead of the others. The least amount of damage, the most amount of work.
There was no one who could argue with Carmina's words.
The Countess of Rigilta has been supporting the 8th Prince Clavis for some time now.
The League Nadal royal family is achievement-based. How good you are determines the territory and status you will be given after you come of age. The prince needs to perform well and acquire a larger territory or he will be in trouble.
Otherwise, they won't get their money back.
''I 'contracted' with the slaves that 'if you defeat the demons in the mist, I will give you enough reward and freedom to dissolve the master-servant contract. It would be a great reward. There should be no complaints.
The reason I put the condition of emancipation on the slaves was because "Grandfather" told me to be picky. Otherwise, he said, the Countess would fall into disrepute. He said he was in mortal danger and should be rewarded appropriately. That's why we made a troublesome contract.
And yet "Grandpa" is forever languishing .......
"The actual battlefield doesn't go as you imagine it to, young lady.
'It doesn't matter if we succeed or not! Even if it doesn't work out, it would be enough to show His Highness Clavis that you tried, wouldn't it?
At Carmina's words, "Grandpa" sighed in resignation.
The ranks proceeded on.
Eventually, the beast path opens up. On either side, it becomes a sheer cliff.
Carmina stopped the ranks a little before the valley.
'Get ready. I will send the slaves into the valley, as soon as possible.
'I am concerned that the scouts have not returned. Miss.
I know, sir. But we can't afford to fall behind.
The face of the Viscountess comes to Carmina's mind.
The girl who was supposed to party with the prince and enter the 'Valley of the Mist'. She and the prince are close to each other. I'm not letting my guard down. And I can never lose.
We get all sorts of information from the employees of the Viscount's family that we have acquired. That she is buying up slaves. That she asks adventurers to do quests in secret. Carmina has not underestimated her. It's best for us to take action before they do.
We will not go near the valley. We will only let the slaves move in front of us. Soldiers, watch both sides. If you see any suspicious shadows, shoot your arrows.
The lead soldier pushed the slaves back.
The slaves were dressed in slave uniforms and held up sticks as long as they were tall.
Their ages were in their early teens. Men and women scattered. We didn't have much time, so we chose them only on the basis of their health.
'Now proceed to the valley, slaves. To freedom.
...... Yes. Dear Carmina.
The slaves start to walk towards the entrance of the valley.
The ground is hard earth. Pebbles are scattered on it and sparse trees grow on it. There is no barrier between the slaves and the soldiers. In any case, there is no way to escape.
Giving up, the slaves walk off at a brisk pace.
Their feet suddenly stop.
'Oh, fearless fool! Do you not know that this valley is about to collapse?
A voice said.
''This is the place where the Heavenly Dragon sleeps. He doesn't want people to disturb his sleep, so he has decided to destroy this valley. ''I warn you foolish people,'' he said. Leave this place immediately. There is nothing in this place that you desire.
A figure stood at the entrance to the Misty Valley.
They were behind an iron fence, set up by the royal family. There are four of them. Because of the fog, I couldn't see their faces.
''Adventurers who don't read the air. I told you that His Highness Kravis would capture this place!
Carmina spat.
─ The valley will collapse? Speaking of which, I think I hear the earth rumbling.
Then we must hurry.
If that happens, the information obtained here will be for Carmina alone. That should be an advantage in the battle for the prince. Even if the valley collapses, it doesn't mean that all the slaves will die. They could at least 'order' the ones that were still breathing to get the information out of them.
'Proceed. Slaves. Fight! This is an 'order'!
Carmina touched the ring on her left hand.
At the same time, the wizard who was mixed with the soldiers cast a strengthening spell on the slave's stick.
The ensuing attack spell fired destroys the iron fence blocking the path to the valley.
'Approach the enemy and pass the information to me. I repeat. This is an order from Carmina-Rigilta.
You get information with a stone's throw away.
As a tactic, it's perfectly correct. It's textbook. I've been taught strategy and tactics.
Carmina was a good student. There was no room for error.
"Step forward, slaves! You will serve me with that blood!
Is that what they say about hiring people...?
Slyly, something moved in the fog.
A white thing.
A huge thing.
Something that was slowly rising from the ground.
Carmina and the soldiers stopped moving.
A dragon-shaped bone was trying to get up.
There was no flesh, no skin. No skin. Not even scales.
It was a pure white, beautiful 'dragon bone'.
A horned skull was attached to the end of its long neck. It's also too huge.
The only thing coming out of the fog was the head and neck. Even so, it's about the size of a little tower. If it's only a head and neck, then the size of its entire body is...
It would be just the right size to wear the wings of a celestial dragon in the town of Sharka.
''No way ...... that's the bones of a celestial dragon. Do you really think that this is the Heavenly Dragon's graveyard!
''Miss. Let's get the slaves back.
Why? Grandfather?
''The celestial dragon used to be on the side of man. You must not point your weapons at him!
Oh, I see. Grandpa doesn't know.
Why was the prince and his party aiming to capture this "Valley of the Mist"?
If it weren't for the rumors of the Heavenly Dragon's Shadow, the prince wouldn't have bothered to come to this place.
''Go, slaves! If that's really the body of a celestial dragon, I should get a piece of it.
Miss!
"Soldiers, fire your arrows! They only want that unseen figure!
The soldiers are told to grab their arrows for their bows. Release.
Dozens of arrows fly towards the shadows below the Bone Heavenly Dragon.
''How dare you let your men do the dirty work and not move from their safe place?
The Bone of the Dragon said.
"Shame on you.
His mouth, not a speck of flesh on it, opened and bared his pure white teeth.
'If you're going to force a job on someone else, you better prove you can do it!
Gulp, the wind rang.
Small tornadoes were created on either side of the 'dragon's bones'.
"Magic 'whirlwind barrier'. Miss.
''I know. That low level of magic should be able to prevent this number of arrows ──── eh? Huh? Whoa, whoa, whoa ────────!
Whoa.
Geez.
The Dragon's Bones, which leaned on its head at the entrance of the valley.
The tornadoes born on either side of it grew huge.
What was once the size of a man became the size of a giant, and even bigger to cover the entrance to the valley.
"What is this...? The Wrath of the Heavenly Dragon? "Only a court magician should be able to use this kind of magic...?
The soldiers scream from the strong headwind that slaps their faces.
The arrows they fired were bounced back and tumbled underneath the soldiers' feet. Even the magic can't break through that wind and disappear. The trees around me creak. Leaves scatter. Branches snap. It is truly a storm worthy of the authority of a celestial dragon.
............You can't expect ............ to do this.
It's impossible.
All Carmina and the others heard about the 'Heavenly Dragon's Shadow'.
They didn't hear about the main body turning into undead and resurrecting.
"Move along, Dorothea...! 'Orders'!
There was a tremendous headwind, and I couldn't move forward. Neither myself nor my men.
But the ring's compulsion is stronger than you think.
If we give up now, all the money we've spent will have been for nothing. I've got to earn every penny I can. Keep going! You must fight those foul things and bring back information to me and Prince Kravis.
Carmina grabbed the 'contract' ring and ordered the slaves to do it.
It was unexpected and my mind was blank - that's all I could think of to say.
''It would have been so much easier if you'd gone home with this.
From the entrance of the valley where we are, we can clearly see the soldiers' movements.
The Countess and her soldiers are working hard at the edge of the valley.
The slaves are struggling to get to us, but they're pushing themselves too hard.
I see them leaning forward, crawling towards us. He's got a look of horror on his face.
I wonder why they're making me do that. ......
It was Iris's 'Illusory Space LV1' that made the Bone Heavenly Dragon. I said I was fine with a normal Heavenly Dragon Modoki, but Iris said, "This one is more intimidating! But he didn't shake it.
"'Oh, how foolishly the aristocracy has fallen - the descendants of the heroes who once built this country.'
Next to me, Iris is manipulating the 'dragon bone' with a twinkle in her eye.
It seems to be able to make the apparition speak while using the skill. Just as Iris said, the Dragon Bones emit a wrinkled voice, shaking the air and making the assembled nobles and soldiers tremble. But I think generating human bones on the ground is a bit much. It's Iris's hobby.
''Very well! Curses and rewards to those who disturb my sleep: ────!
Iris jumps with her arms raised.
I'm sweating all over, but I'm in a good mood.
The bone-like Tenryu Modoki is screaming at us as it hovers over our heads.
Because it is an illusion, it has neither offensive nor defensive powers.
The thing protecting us was Rafilia's Dragon Seed Whirlwind LV1.
It's about the size of an eight-story building. It's spinning on either side of the dragon's bones, winding up the air around it.
I'm sure you'll be able to find out more about it.
That's why we're all snuggled up together, as if defending Iris and Cecil.
"That's 40% of your magic consumption. Do you want more?
It's good enough as it is.
'If we can increase the magic consumption to 80%, we can get the soldiers involved in the range.
I don't care. I'm not here to kill those guys.
Killing doesn't change the way the nobles do things.
So, we give them fear.
The kind of trauma that if you try to get someone to "work in black" you will instantly be reminded of this time.
If that fear gets through to the rest of the aristocracy, it might change this world a bit. Let them "work in black" and they'll show up with a working labor department! Or something like that.
'Well then, Cecil, I need your help.
Yes. Mr. Nagi.
When I said that, Cecil mumbled with a bright red face and closed his eyes, "Huh," he said.
'Please play ...... 'gutai' with me,'
I think that's something I'm going to ask you to do.
"......For me, it's a 'reward' to be touched by Nagi,
Cecil looks embarrassed, holding his face in his hands.
'Yeah. 'Okay. Then just tell me and I'll do it whenever you want.
I'll tell you what I'll do if you go to ......
I put my hand on Cecil's chest.
"Huh. ...... Ah.
Just bear with me for a minute, Cecil.
I connected the "thread of magic" to Cecil's chest.
Because of the use of the Quick Structure, I'm connected to Iris and Rafilia with the magical thread. That's why I'll be using the magical thread to supply Cecil with magical power as well. Otherwise, the three of us will be stuck in close quarters, so we won't be able to move.
But this time we're going to use a new ancient language magic.
The key is the Countess' "contract" that says "defeat the enemy in the fog and the slave will be set free". We'll take advantage of that.
I'll take control of the magic. Cecil, focus on chanting and maintaining the magic.
'I understand. Nagi-sama, I'll go to ......!
Cecil inhales with a "swoosh". The little lips begin to chant.
''That's the Warriors we call from the spirit world.''
A beautiful voice spells out the magic of the ancient language.
A voice in the ancient language begins to form a spell: "...a scarlet beast, clothed in fire, which I will use against you! I will use you. Listen to my voice, and let me and my master's voice. Listen to my voice, my master's voice. There is a way, and it is the master's messenger, and that is the bond between me and the master. It is by the bond between me and my master.
A window opened in front of me.
This time, I didn't just watch. I have to participate in the unfolding of the magic as well.
The ancient language Cecil is chanting, "Fire Spirit Summoning "Samoning Elemental"", is such a magic (・・・・・・).
In the window, there are 18 icons in the shape of a fire spirit (salamander), and the parameters are displayed below it. There's also a meter that lets you select the amount of magic to be poured into each body.
Next to the parameters, there's an 'average' button. Selecting this seems to distribute the magic power evenly.
But ...... just for the sake of it.
"'Ye are my army. You are my soldiers. By the ancient covenant, come, come, come!'
Cecil's clean silver hair is sticking to his brown skin from sweat.
We've worked him so hard, we have to make sure he doesn't waste it.
...... That's right. Let's use that trick, which was forbidden in the original world game.
Even I didn't do it. It's a move that would be certified as a shitty game for sure if you did it. Let's use it to free the slaves and send a message to the nobles and soldiers.
"'Lower class, but strongest among the ancient tongues... 'Fire Spirit Summoning [Samoning Elemental]'!
And when Cecil's chanting was complete...
We were surrounded by 18 winged fire lizards - fire nymphs - that were called salamanders.
"This is going to kill you, Sula.
This is going to kill you, Leela.
Seeing a group of incoming salamanders, the lid slave girl readied her weapon.
These girls were still in their early teens, bought only for the reason that they were sturdy. Their race was dwarves.
Small in stature, but sturdy and powerful.
After losing their parents, they were enslaved and sold off together to the Countess family. And they were brought here.
We were told that our job was to explore the Valley of the Mist.
They made a "contract" with us that if we defeated even one demon in the fog, they would set us free.
The slaves around me were all crying as if they had given up.
Fighting in a valley where the five senses were screwed up and people and demi-humans could see the demons meant that they had to fight each other. That's no different than slaves enjoying killing each other.
But the dwarven twins did not give up hope.
They, Sura and Leela, are twins.
Even though they had their five senses screwed up, they knew they had something to communicate with each other.
'But I can't help you with this, Sula.
Yes, this one's no match for the twins, Leela.
In front of the girls is a dragon made of huge bones, and a tornado is spinning in the heavens.
The area is smoky with dust, and from the valley, a bright red-burning fire spirit is approaching.
I want to run away, but my master's 'orders' do not allow me to do so.
I resent the strong dwarf body.
Sura and Leela are able to move forward in this storm, but little by little.
'You said these sticks were blessed,'
It's enchanted to make it harder to break.
I guess that's a good idea.
I'm not giving up hope.
Let's take them both out at once.
The fire spirit was riding on the wind, and it was approaching at once. We can't see the scenery around us. Our feet were turning white. The mist might be drifting from the valley.
"Ohhhhhhhhhhhh!
A winged fire lizard spotted them.
It continued to peck at them and raised a clawed arm in front of them.
The two closed their eyes and slammed their sticks against the salamander.
"Yea, yea,
plop
A wooden stick dug into the head of the salamander, which was covered in flames.
'Yara Letter,'
There was a pshaw, and the hit salamander disappeared.
He knocked the salamander down!
"[............] What?
tea ceremony
There was a cool sound and the 'contract collar' was removed from their bodies.
Master said, ''If you defeat the demon in the fog, I will give you enough reward to cancel the contract. That was carried out unconditionally. It was set off against the contract money.
Before I knew it, a fog was gathering at their feet. That's why the condition was fulfilled.
"Go before the mist envelops you.
When I looked up, I saw 'Dragon Bones' looking down at the two of them.
You've done your job. You don't have to work overtime. Go where you will.
""...... Tenryu-sama."
Sura and Leela couldn't help but clasp their hands together.
It was a bone, but it was scary, but the Heavenly Dragon was on their side.
He knew about the 'contract' and helped us.
''I will never forget this favor! If Tenryu-sama is in trouble, please let me know!
With that, the two run hand in hand.
Around them, the other slaves are fighting the salamanders. They are all the same. The salamander disappears with a whack, and the slaves' master-slave contract is cancelled.
'Leela!' Sula!
The dwarven girls run towards the line of countesses and soldiers.
Yes, I should thank you properly. You were my employer.
''Thank you, master. Goodbye.
The two stopped in front of their former master and bowed their heads.
''──Huh? Wait!
The master didn't seem to understand what was going on.
The dwarf girls and the other slaves were running towards the foot of the mountain.
"What, aren't salamanders just a scare tactic, gah!
The soldier who had cut at the salamander shouted as his sword was caught.
As it was, the salamander released his sword and slid away. This time, he hugged the soldier's legs. The soldier rolls around on the ground with his iron shin guards well oiled.
I double-check the salamander's parameters in the window.
Sorry. That's the one I set up for speed (・・・・・) (・・・・・・).
Even from us at the front of the valley, I can see that the soldiers are wreaking havoc.
Cecil, Iris, and Raphilia are all staring at the crowd of salamanders, maintaining their magic and skills.
A wizard emerges from the line of soldiers. He intends to use his magic to eliminate the salamanders.
''Chanting - 'Ice Arrow'!
horse-riding
The arrow fired by the rear guard wizard hit another salamander's body.
Part of the body is missing, but the salamander doesn't stop working. He pushes forward towards the enemy.
That one is the one I set up with maximum defense.
...... It's still forbidden, isn't it? "The enemy that looks exactly the same, but has completely different abilities.
When I tried this in my own game, it made me want to punch the display in the face.
Basically, in games, enemies of the same type with different abilities have different names or different colors.
In an attempt to break that promise, I created an enemy that looked exactly the same, only with a very different ability - and I understood the importance of the promise. Because I couldn't distinguish between them even by myself.
This time I used it on the 'Fire Spirit (Salamander)' that Cecil had summoned.
''Ancient Language Magic Fire Spirit Summoning 《Summoning Elemental》''
You can summon up to 18 salamanders.
Their abilities and behavioral patterns can be set at will by those supplying them with magic power.
Cecil said it's a powerful but difficult magic to control.
That's because you have to chant and maintain the magic and control the salamander at the same time.
So I decided to take care of the rest. I could average everyone's abilities and simply let them assault me, but no. Because the goal is to free the slaves and strike fear into the enemy.
With 18 salamanders, I divided them into four types.
(1) 1 HP (Hit Points), for freeing slaves. 12 of them are for emancipation.
That's the one I called to be defeated by the slaves.
Since "defeating the enemy in the fog will free you from slavery", I set his HP to 1. Specifically, it's so weak that even if you get hit by a pebble, it will disappear.
I thought that once the HP is gone, the fire spirit will be released from the summoning, so it will be considered defeated, but it looks like a success.
I was able to reduce the amount of magic power I had to allocate, so I poured that amount into the other three types.
(2) Three speed-oriented types.
I'm using my magic power to increase their speed to the limit.
Their movement and reaction speed are both at the level of a slightly quick swordsman.
My orders to these guys are 'Just avoid the attacks and hit and away!
They are instructed to go around the rear of the enemy soldiers when they see an opening.
(3) Wall. Physical Strength. Defensive strength.
Two of them have increased HP and defense, and are set to become walls.
(4) Attack power. (3) Intimidation.
A countermeasure against strong swordsmen. He's the guy you want to take down the enemy with a single blow from behind the wall.
Only the attack power has been increased to the limit.
And these four types of salamanders all look exactly the same.
Without looking at the window, even I (...) can't tell them apart (・・・・・・・・).
So you won't know who the enemies are until you try to fight them.
Moreover, the salamanders have been instructed by me to fight while swapping ranks.
So...
They're supposed to use magic to make the sword stronger, but it's hard.
It's not hard, it's fast. He can't catch up to the...
No, you don't! Don't come any closer. It'll burn your armor off with a single blow...
In fact, the movements are so slightly different that I guess I could tell them apart if I tried.
It seems impossible. The soldiers are rolling around on the ground, dropping their burnt swords and taking off their hot armor. If we don't disarm them, even if it's a little haphazard, we'll be in danger from now on.
Well, let's go finish up now.
You took away the enemy's ability to fight. It's enough.
There's a fog rolling in from the east, and it's starting to roll in around them.
Let's go home.
The dragon's bones are screaming.
'Go home! The Lord of this valley desires a quiet sleep.
Kaele, kaele, kaele, kaele! Kaele!
The salamanders are speaking in unison.
"Lady Carmina, you must retreat!
'Grandpa,' he exclaims.
Carmina knows that. This enemy is insane. It could really be a heavenly dragon emissary.
My body begins to tremble with fear.
It was a mistake to put my hands on him. I want to run away now. I want to return to the inn and tell the prince about this.
But I can't move.
The soldiers clash with the terminated slaves on the narrow mountain road, and all hell breaks loose. The light slaves climbed over the bodies of the soldiers and fled to the foot of the mountain.
'Slaves, get out of our way!
No! Touch your 'contract', young lady!
Grandfather stopped the soldier who raised his sword.
Carmina has made a 'contract' with the slaves, 'If you defeat the enemy in the mist, I will give you enough rewards and freedom to dissolve the master-slave contract'. The collar came off, and it was done. If you kill the former slaves here, you have broken the contract to give them their freedom. Carmina will be punished for the 'contract'.
After the slaves ran off, all that was left were the confused soldiers.
The soldiers, pushed and knocked down, blocked the way and the ranks could not even turn around.
'We don't have time to relax ...... Oh, the fog!
The area around the Countess had begun to turn white.
Before I knew it, the Mist of Deception was pouring out of the valley.
It was due to the tornadoes on either side of the Bone Dragon. Placed at the entrance of the valley, they were spinning outward and serving to suck the fog out of the valley.
Those tornadoes were not for defense.
It was intended to suck out the 'deceiving fog' from the valley and create a vicious ranged attack.
".........Wrapped up in the fog.
Before he knew it, the 'Mist of Deception' had completely enveloped Carmina and the soldiers.
A procession of soldiers was advancing toward the Valley of the Mist.In the center of the procession was a girl wearing a white and silver breastplate.Her name is Carmina-Rigilta. She is the only daughter of a county family.Carmina ducked her crimson cloak and shouted, "Come on, slaves!''Come on, slaves, go ahead!Don't you want your freedom!At the head of the procession are the slaves who have been hastily bought up.There are 12 of them. Their weapons are sturdy sticks. Just before entering the valley, they are to be temporarily strengthened with magic. They are to be temporarily strengthened with magic just before entering the valley, so that they can fight the demons. But until then, they should not be able to escape or go against it.Behind the line of slaves, soldiers with spears at the ready scowled.Carmina nodded in satisfaction and shouted.'If you had successfully defeated the enemy in the Mist of Deception, you would have 'contracted' to terminate the master-servant contract on the spot and guarantee your freedom!Slaves, if you want your freedom, work!'Dear Carmina. Are you really going to send these slaves to us?A bearded soldier walking beside me asks me.He's been a chaperone since he was little. Carmina calls him "Grandpa".There's a demon inside, isn't there?At the very least, the slaves should have the same armor as the soldiers.We don't have time for this, Grandpa. If you hesitate here, you'll see what that baronet will do to you: ......Carmina scratched her nails.If it were true, she should have conquered the valley with the prince and the baroness, as well as the prince's attendant, 'The Wise Man', and the valley. But before that, I want to accomplish something. I can't afford to lose to that Viscountess.''Let me ask you the opposite. Grandfather. From your perspective as a successive soldier, is my strategy wrong?...... No.An old soldier advancing beside Carmina shook his head with a bitter face.''What we need right now is information about the Misty Valley. The best way to do that is to send people in. However, if we injure the regular soldiers by fighting each other, we will undermine the Count family's strength. Hence, the slaves are sent ahead of the others. The least amount of damage, the most amount of work.There was no one who could argue with Carmina's words.The Countess of Rigilta has been supporting the 8th Prince Clavis for some time now.The League Nadal royal family is achievement-based. How good you are determines the territory and status you will be given after you come of age. The prince needs to perform well and acquire a larger territory or he will be in trouble.Otherwise, they won't get their money back.''I 'contracted' with the slaves that 'if you defeat the demons in the mist, I will give you enough reward and freedom to dissolve the master-servant contract. It would be a great reward. There should be no complaints.The reason I put the condition of emancipation on the slaves was because "Grandfather" told me to be picky. Otherwise, he said, the Countess would fall into disrepute. He said he was in mortal danger and should be rewarded appropriately. That's why we made a troublesome contract.And yet "Grandpa" is forever languishing ......."The actual battlefield doesn't go as you imagine it to, young lady.'It doesn't matter if we succeed or not!Even if it doesn't work out, it would be enough to show His Highness Clavis that you tried, wouldn't it?At Carmina's words, "Grandpa" sighed in resignation.The ranks proceeded on.Eventually, the beast path opens up. On either side, it becomes a sheer cliff.Carmina stopped the ranks a little before the valley.'Get ready. I will send the slaves into the valley, as soon as possible.'I am concerned that the scouts have not returned. Miss.I know, sir. But we can't afford to fall behind.The face of the Viscountess comes to Carmina's mind.The girl who was supposed to party with the prince and enter the 'Valley of the Mist'. She and the prince are close to each other. I'm not letting my guard down. And I can never lose.We get all sorts of information from the employees of the Viscount's family that we have acquired. That she is buying up slaves. That she asks adventurers to do quests in secret. Carmina has not underestimated her. It's best for us to take action before they do.We will not go near the valley. We will only let the slaves move in front of us. Soldiers, watch both sides. If you see any suspicious shadows, shoot your arrows.The lead soldier pushed the slaves back.The slaves were dressed in slave uniforms and held up sticks as long as they were tall.Their ages were in their early teens. Men and women scattered. We didn't have much time, so we chose them only on the basis of their health.'Now proceed to the valley, slaves. To freedom....... Yes. Dear Carmina.The slaves start to walk towards the entrance of the valley.The ground is hard earth. Pebbles are scattered on it and sparse trees grow on it. There is no barrier between the slaves and the soldiers. In any case, there is no way to escape.Giving up, the slaves walk off at a brisk pace.Their feet suddenly stop.'Oh, fearless fool! Do you not know that this valley is about to collapse?A voice said.''This is the place where the Heavenly Dragon sleeps. He doesn't want people to disturb his sleep, so he has decided to destroy this valley. ''I warn you foolish people,'' he said. Leave this place immediately. There is nothing in this place that you desire.A figure stood at the entrance to the Misty Valley.They were behind an iron fence, set up by the royal family. There are four of them. Because of the fog, I couldn't see their faces.''Adventurers who don't read the air. I told you that His Highness Kravis would capture this place!Carmina spat. The valley will collapse?Speaking of which, I think I hear the earth rumbling.Then we must hurry.If that happens, the information obtained here will be for Carmina alone. That should be an advantage in the battle for the prince. Even if the valley collapses, it doesn't mean that all the slaves will die. They could at least 'order' the ones that were still breathing to get the information out of them.'Proceed. Slaves. Fight!This is an 'order'!Carmina touched the ring on her left hand.At the same time, the wizard who was mixed with the soldiers cast a strengthening spell on the slave's stick.The ensuing attack spell fired destroys the iron fence blocking the path to the valley.'Approach the enemy and pass the information to me. I repeat. This is an order from Carmina-Rigilta.You get information with a stone's throw away.As a tactic, it's perfectly correct. It's textbook. I've been taught strategy and tactics.Carmina was a good student. There was no room for error."Step forward, slaves!You will serve me with that blood!Is that what they say about hiring people...?Slyly, something moved in the fog.A white thing.A huge thing.Something that was slowly rising from the ground.Carmina and the soldiers stopped moving.A dragon-shaped bone was trying to get up.There was no flesh, no skin. No skin. Not even scales.It was a pure white, beautiful 'dragon bone'.A horned skull was attached to the end of its long neck. It's also too huge.The only thing coming out of the fog was the head and neck. Even so, it's about the size of a little tower. If it's only a head and neck, then the size of its entire body is...It would be just the right size to wear the wings of a celestial dragon in the town of Sharka.''No way ...... that's the bones of a celestial dragon. Do you really think that this is the Heavenly Dragon's graveyard!''Miss. Let's get the slaves back.Why?Grandfather?''The celestial dragon used to be on the side of man. You must not point your weapons at him!Oh, I see. Grandpa doesn't know.Why was the prince and his party aiming to capture this "Valley of the Mist"?If it weren't for the rumors of the Heavenly Dragon's Shadow, the prince wouldn't have bothered to come to this place.''Go, slaves!If that's really the body of a celestial dragon, I should get a piece of it.Miss!"Soldiers, fire your arrows!They only want that unseen figure!The soldiers are told to grab their arrows for their bows. Release.Dozens of arrows fly towards the shadows below the Bone Heavenly Dragon.''How dare you let your men do the dirty work and not move from their safe place?The Bone of the Dragon said."Shame on you.His mouth, not a speck of flesh on it, opened and bared his pure white teeth.'If you're going to force a job on someone else, you better prove you can do it!Gulp, the wind rang.Small tornadoes were created on either side of the 'dragon's bones'."Magic 'whirlwind barrier'. Miss.''I know. That low level of magic should be able to prevent this number of arrows eh?Huh?Whoa, whoa, whoa !Whoa.Geez.The Dragon's Bones, which leaned on its head at the entrance of the valley.The tornadoes born on either side of it grew huge.What was once the size of a man became the size of a giant, and even bigger to cover the entrance to the valley."What is this...? The Wrath of the Heavenly Dragon? "Only a court magician should be able to use this kind of magic...?The soldiers scream from the strong headwind that slaps their faces.The arrows they fired were bounced back and tumbled underneath the soldiers' feet. Even the magic can't break through that wind and disappear. The trees around me creak. Leaves scatter. Branches snap. It is truly a storm worthy of the authority of a celestial dragon.............You can't expect ............ to do this.It's impossible.All Carmina and the others heard about the 'Heavenly Dragon's Shadow'.They didn't hear about the main body turning into undead and resurrecting."Move along, Dorothea...!'Orders'!There was a tremendous headwind, and I couldn't move forward. Neither myself nor my men.But the ring's compulsion is stronger than you think.If we give up now, all the money we've spent will have been for nothing. I've got to earn every penny I can. Keep going!You must fight those foul things and bring back information to me and Prince Kravis.Carmina grabbed the 'contract' ring and ordered the slaves to do it.It was unexpected and my mind was blank - that's all I could think of to say.''It would have been so much easier if you'd gone home with this.From the entrance of the valley where we are, we can clearly see the soldiers' movements.The Countess and her soldiers are working hard at the edge of the valley.The slaves are struggling to get to us, but they're pushing themselves too hard.I see them leaning forward, crawling towards us. He's got a look of horror on his face.I wonder why they're making me do that. ......It was Iris's 'Illusory Space LV1' that made the Bone Heavenly Dragon. I said I was fine with a normal Heavenly Dragon Modoki, but Iris said, "This one is more intimidating! But he didn't shake it."'Oh, how foolishly the aristocracy has fallen - the descendants of the heroes who once built this country.'Next to me, Iris is manipulating the 'dragon bone' with a twinkle in her eye.It seems to be able to make the apparition speak while using the skill. Just as Iris said, the Dragon Bones emit a wrinkled voice, shaking the air and making the assembled nobles and soldiers tremble. But I think generating human bones on the ground is a bit much. It's Iris's hobby.''Very well!Curses and rewards to those who disturb my sleep: !Iris jumps with her arms raised.I'm sweating all over, but I'm in a good mood.The bone-like Tenryu Modoki is screaming at us as it hovers over our heads.Because it is an illusion, it has neither offensive nor defensive powers.The thing protecting us was Rafilia's Dragon Seed Whirlwind LV1.It's about the size of an eight-story building. It's spinning on either side of the dragon's bones, winding up the air around it.I'm sure you'll be able to find out more about it.That's why we're all snuggled up together, as if defending Iris and Cecil."That's 40% of your magic consumption. Do you want more?It's good enough as it is.'If we can increase the magic consumption to 80%, we can get the soldiers involved in the range.I don't care. I'm not here to kill those guys.Killing doesn't change the way the nobles do things.So, we give them fear.The kind of trauma that if you try to get someone to "work in black" you will instantly be reminded of this time.If that fear gets through to the rest of the aristocracy, it might change this world a bit. Let them "work in black" and they'll show up with a working labor department! Or something like that.'Well then, Cecil, I need your help.Yes. Mr. Nagi.When I said that, Cecil mumbled with a bright red face and closed his eyes, "Huh," he said.'Please play ...... 'gutai' with me,'I think that's something I'm going to ask you to do."......For me, it's a 'reward' to be touched by Nagi,Cecil looks embarrassed, holding his face in his hands.'Yeah. 'Okay. Then just tell me and I'll do it whenever you want.I'll tell you what I'll do if you go to ......I put my hand on Cecil's chest."Huh. ...... Ah.Just bear with me for a minute, Cecil.I connected the "thread of magic" to Cecil's chest.Because of the use of the Quick Structure, I'm connected to Iris and Rafilia with the magical thread. That's why I'll be using the magical thread to supply Cecil with magical power as well. Otherwise, the three of us will be stuck in close quarters, so we won't be able to move.But this time we're going to use a new ancient language magic.The key is the Countess' "contract" that says "defeat the enemy in the fog and the slave will be set free". We'll take advantage of that.I'll take control of the magic. Cecil, focus on chanting and maintaining the magic.'I understand. Nagi-sama, I'll go to ......!Cecil inhales with a "swoosh". The little lips begin to chant.''That's the Warriors we call from the spirit world.''A beautiful voice spells out the magic of the ancient language.A voice in the ancient language begins to form a spell: "...a scarlet beast, clothed in fire, which I will use against you! I will use you. Listen to my voice, and let me and my master's voice. Listen to my voice, my master's voice. There is a way, and it is the master's messenger, and that is the bond between me and the master. It is by the bond between me and my master.A window opened in front of me.This time, I didn't just watch. I have to participate in the unfolding of the magic as well.The ancient language Cecil is chanting, "Fire Spirit Summoning "Samoning Elemental"", is such a magic .In the window, there are 18 icons in the shape of a fire spirit salamander, and the parameters are displayed below it. There's also a meter that lets you select the amount of magic to be poured into each body.Next to the parameters, there's an 'average' button. Selecting this seems to distribute the magic power evenly.But ...... just for the sake of it."'Ye are my army. You are my soldiers. By the ancient covenant, come, come, come!'Cecil's clean silver hair is sticking to his brown skin from sweat.We've worked him so hard, we have to make sure he doesn't waste it....... That's right. Let's use that trick, which was forbidden in the original world game.Even I didn't do it. It's a move that would be certified as a shitty game for sure if you did it. Let's use it to free the slaves and send a message to the nobles and soldiers."'Lower class, but strongest among the ancient tongues...'Fire Spirit Summoning Samoning Elemental'!And when Cecil's chanting was complete...We were surrounded by 18 winged fire lizards - fire nymphs - that were called salamanders."This is going to kill you, Sula.This is going to kill you, Leela.Seeing a group of incoming salamanders, the lid slave girl readied her weapon.These girls were still in their early teens, bought only for the reason that they were sturdy. Their race was dwarves.Small in stature, but sturdy and powerful.After losing their parents, they were enslaved and sold off together to the Countess family. And they were brought here.We were told that our job was to explore the Valley of the Mist.They made a "contract" with us that if we defeated even one demon in the fog, they would set us free.The slaves around me were all crying as if they had given up.Fighting in a valley where the five senses were screwed up and people and demi-humans could see the demons meant that they had to fight each other. That's no different than slaves enjoying killing each other.But the dwarven twins did not give up hope.They, Sura and Leela, are twins.Even though they had their five senses screwed up, they knew they had something to communicate with each other.'But I can't help you with this, Sula.Yes, this one's no match for the twins, Leela.In front of the girls is a dragon made of huge bones, and a tornado is spinning in the heavens.The area is smoky with dust, and from the valley, a bright red-burning fire spirit is approaching.I want to run away, but my master's 'orders' do not allow me to do so.I resent the strong dwarf body.Sura and Leela are able to move forward in this storm, but little by little.'You said these sticks were blessed,'It's enchanted to make it harder to break.I guess that's a good idea.I'm not giving up hope.Let's take them both out at once.The fire spirit was riding on the wind, and it was approaching at once. We can't see the scenery around us. Our feet were turning white. The mist might be drifting from the valley."Ohhhhhhhhhhhh!A winged fire lizard spotted them.It continued to peck at them and raised a clawed arm in front of them.The two closed their eyes and slammed their sticks against the salamander."Yea, yea,plopA wooden stick dug into the head of the salamander, which was covered in flames.'Yara Letter,'There was a pshaw, and the hit salamander disappeared.He knocked the salamander down!"............ What?tea ceremonyThere was a cool sound and the 'contract collar' was removed from their bodies.Master said, ''If you defeat the demon in the fog, I will give you enough reward to cancel the contract. That was carried out unconditionally. It was set off against the contract money.Before I knew it, a fog was gathering at their feet. That's why the condition was fulfilled."Go before the mist envelops you.When I looked up, I saw 'Dragon Bones' looking down at the two of them.You've done your job. You don't have to work overtime. Go where you will.""...... Tenryu-sama."Sura and Leela couldn't help but clasp their hands together.It was a bone, but it was scary, but the Heavenly Dragon was on their side.He knew about the 'contract' and helped us.''I will never forget this favor!If Tenryu-sama is in trouble, please let me know!With that, the two run hand in hand.Around them, the other slaves are fighting the salamanders. They are all the same. The salamander disappears with a whack, and the slaves' master-slave contract is cancelled.'Leela!' Sula!The dwarven girls run towards the line of countesses and soldiers.Yes, I should thank you properly. You were my employer.''Thank you, master. Goodbye.The two stopped in front of their former master and bowed their heads.''Huh?Wait!The master didn't seem to understand what was going on.The dwarf girls and the other slaves were running towards the foot of the mountain."What, aren't salamanders just a scare tactic, gah!The soldier who had cut at the salamander shouted as his sword was caught.As it was, the salamander released his sword and slid away. This time, he hugged the soldier's legs. The soldier rolls around on the ground with his iron shin guards well oiled.I double-check the salamander's parameters in the window.Sorry. That's the one I set up for speed .Even from us at the front of the valley, I can see that the soldiers are wreaking havoc.Cecil, Iris, and Raphilia are all staring at the crowd of salamanders, maintaining their magic and skills.A wizard emerges from the line of soldiers. He intends to use his magic to eliminate the salamanders.''Chanting - 'Ice Arrow'!horse-ridingThe arrow fired by the rear guard wizard hit another salamander's body.Part of the body is missing, but the salamander doesn't stop working. He pushes forward towards the enemy.That one is the one I set up with maximum defense....... It's still forbidden, isn't it? "The enemy that looks exactly the same, but has completely different abilities.When I tried this in my own game, it made me want to punch the display in the face.Basically, in games, enemies of the same type with different abilities have different names or different colors.In an attempt to break that promise, I created an enemy that looked exactly the same, only with a very different ability - and I understood the importance of the promise. Because I couldn't distinguish between them even by myself.This time I used it on the 'Fire Spirit Salamander' that Cecil had summoned.''Ancient Language Magic Fire Spirit Summoning Summoning Elemental''You can summon up to 18 salamanders.Their abilities and behavioral patterns can be set at will by those supplying them with magic power.Cecil said it's a powerful but difficult magic to control.That's because you have to chant and maintain the magic and control the salamander at the same time.So I decided to take care of the rest. I could average everyone's abilities and simply let them assault me, but no. Because the goal is to free the slaves and strike fear into the enemy.With 18 salamanders, I divided them into four types.1 1 HP Hit Points, for freeing slaves. 12 of them are for emancipation.That's the one I called to be defeated by the slaves.Since "defeating the enemy in the fog will free you from slavery", I set his HP to 1. Specifically, it's so weak that even if you get hit by a pebble, it will disappear.I thought that once the HP is gone, the fire spirit will be released from the summoning, so it will be considered defeated, but it looks like a success.I was able to reduce the amount of magic power I had to allocate, so I poured that amount into the other three types.2 Three speed-oriented types.I'm using my magic power to increase their speed to the limit.Their movement and reaction speed are both at the level of a slightly quick swordsman.My orders to these guys are 'Just avoid the attacks and hit and away!They are instructed to go around the rear of the enemy soldiers when they see an opening.3 Wall. Physical Strength. Defensive strength.Two of them have increased HP and defense, and are set to become walls.4 Attack power. 3 Intimidation.A countermeasure against strong swordsmen. He's the guy you want to take down the enemy with a single blow from behind the wall.Only the attack power has been increased to the limit.And these four types of salamanders all look exactly the same.Without looking at the window, even I ... can't tell them apart .So you won't know who the enemies are until you try to fight them.Moreover, the salamanders have been instructed by me to fight while swapping ranks.So...They're supposed to use magic to make the sword stronger, but it's hard.It's not hard, it's fast. He can't catch up to the...No, you don't!Don't come any closer. It'll burn your armor off with a single blow...In fact, the movements are so slightly different that I guess I could tell them apart if I tried.It seems impossible. The soldiers are rolling around on the ground, dropping their burnt swords and taking off their hot armor. If we don't disarm them, even if it's a little haphazard, we'll be in danger from now on.Well, let's go finish up now.You took away the enemy's ability to fight. It's enough.There's a fog rolling in from the east, and it's starting to roll in around them.Let's go home.The dragon's bones are screaming.'Go home!The Lord of this valley desires a quiet sleep.Kaele, kaele, kaele, kaele! Kaele!The salamanders are speaking in unison."Lady Carmina, you must retreat!'Grandpa,' he exclaims.Carmina knows that. This enemy is insane. It could really be a heavenly dragon emissary.My body begins to tremble with fear.It was a mistake to put my hands on him. I want to run away now. I want to return to the inn and tell the prince about this.But I can't move.The soldiers clash with the terminated slaves on the narrow mountain road, and all hell breaks loose. The light slaves climbed over the bodies of the soldiers and fled to the foot of the mountain.'Slaves, get out of our way!No!Touch your 'contract', young lady!Grandfather stopped the soldier who raised his sword.Carmina has made a 'contract' with the slaves, 'If you defeat the enemy in the mist, I will give you enough rewards and freedom to dissolve the master-slave contract'. The collar came off, and it was done. If you kill the former slaves here, you have broken the contract to give them their freedom. Carmina will be punished for the 'contract'.After the slaves ran off, all that was left were the confused soldiers.The soldiers, pushed and knocked down, blocked the way and the ranks could not even turn around.'We don't have time to relax ...... Oh, the fog!The area around the Countess had begun to turn white.Before I knew it, the Mist of Deception was pouring out of the valley.It was due to the tornadoes on either side of the Bone Dragon. Placed at the entrance of the valley, they were spinning outward and serving to suck the fog out of the valley.Those tornadoes were not for defense.It was intended to suck out the 'deceiving fog' from the valley and create a vicious ranged attack.".........Wrapped up in the fog.Before he knew it, the 'Mist of Deception' had completely enveloped Carmina and the soldiers.
