第６４掘：失くしたモノの為に (Part2)
"My, a country that cannot even manage its own subordinates—is there any point in forming an alliance with them?"
Big Sister, you’re being far too blunt...
"Seraria-sama, please, calm yourself!! This alliance is stronger than the last, and it is something we simply cannot afford to lose!!"
"...What are you talking about?"
"This alliance is meant to clear the name of your younger sister, Elju-sama!! It must not—"
Just as Alstaire-sama began to continue,
"Do not say another word!!!"
Big Sister exploded. She drew her sword in a flash, pointing the blade directly at Alstaire-sama.
"D-did I... say something wrong...?"
"Shut up. If you think I’m talking about the original alliance, you’re mistaken. I’m talking about you bringing up this current alliance, which was formed solely to defeat the Demon Lord."
Big Sister is genuinely furious.
"Alstaire. There is only one action you can take before me. Kneel and beg for forgiveness. Otherwise, I will take your head right here. You are even more unsightly than Crack."
"I don't understand..."
Without hesitation, Big Sister swung her sword.
"Now, now, calm down, Seraria. That matter was part of the plan I proposed."
The sword that should have claimed Alstaire-sama’s head was stopped by Yuki-san’s intervention. I have no idea how he managed to do it.
"...Hah!! I see. But I will definitely be making Yuki pay for this later."
"Go easy on me. Now, Alstaire. Why do you think Elju was killed by the Demon Lord? You know, don't you? The truth?"
"!?"
"That’s right. That was just the narrative we prepared. We can’t afford to keep starting wars and draining our national strength, after all."
"Could it be... Seraria-sama, you..."
"I know, Alstaire. I know that Litea assassinated Elju."
"..."
"You understand why Seraria is so angry, don't you?"
"...Seraria-sama. I am truly, deeply sorry for this matter."
Alstaire-sama bowed her head low right there on the spot. Ah, since I am actually alive, I don't quite feel the weight of it, but to Big Sister, the sight of Alstaire-sama lying so nonchalantly must have been utterly unforgivable.
"...Alstaire. Make sure you convey this to your superiors. We are fully aware of the truth regarding Elju. If any of your nobles dare to come here, I might just behead them on the spot. After all, my sister was dragged into your internal squabbles."
"...Yes. I will tell everyone. However, what does this mean for Rurua-sama..."
"Yes, I am also serving the role of a hostage. And the aid and support we are providing are, in a sense, reparations."
"If this were made public, Litea would find itself surrounded by enemies in an instant. If that happens, Roschur will be the first to lead the charge against you. That is the strategy Yuki suggested to keep your superiors quiet. If they know we are aware of the truth about Elju, they won't want to come here, not knowing when their lives might be forfeit, right?"
With that, Big Sister stroked the blade of her still-drawn sword.
"Well, the general policy is set. Let’s take a break and resume later."
Big Sister sheathed her sword and turned to leave the conference room.
"Seraria-sama. I have one thing I would like to ask."
Crack-san called out to her.
"What is it?"
"Your rage earlier is perfectly understandable. However, why do you not point that sword at me? It is no exaggeration to say that I am the one who took your sister away. You heard it from Yuki-dono, didn't you?"
"...Crack. I am, at my core, a knight."
"Ha, I am aware. A War Goddess who has taken up the mantle of a Valkyrie."
"That’s right. ...I believe that by carving out a future, by moving forward, I can prove that the lives of those I have struck down were not in vain."
"I share that same sentiment. I have struck down many, if only for the sake of a better future."
"That is why you did not try to run from your sins. You are here to give meaning to the many deaths—to Elju’s death—and to grasp a future. Am I wrong?"
"No."
"Then there is no meaning in striking you down. I did not come here to fight, and if you came here for the sake of the lives lost, then show me. Show me the future you desired, and prove that Elju’s death led to this."
Big Sister walked away without looking back. Crack-san performed a flawless Litea-style salute.
"Um, I’m still alive, you know..."
"Well, just give it up. If you say anything now, you'll ruin the mood," Ratz-san said, patting my shoulder.
...*Sniffle.*
So, there you have it: Seraria-sama’s immense rage and her convictions.
Though, Elju is actually alive!!
I’m taking a break from writing tomorrow.
The reason is that I have to play "Gundam Side Stories"!!