第２５９堀：動き出す欠片たち (Part4)
"Now, here are my conditions. Both of you will become my subordinates. In exchange, you will provide me with all the information you possess. If you do that, I will help Roday. You understand why, don't you? There's no need for me to spell it out."
"Their actions—the Holy Sword Users—they don't align with the Dungeon Master's policy, do they?"
"Exactly. Or rather, if the current state of affairs is disrupted, it becomes incredibly troublesome to manage. I’ve been observing from the sidelines, but if Roday falls, it will make things extremely difficult for me as well. That is why you will cooperate as my subordinates."
"..."
I fall silent. This is something I should accept immediately, yet...
"...What is it? Are you dissatisfied?"
"N-no, that’s not it..."
What is it that’s holding me back? If things continue like this, the wishes of her predecessor will vanish into thin air...
"Ah, I see."
"Indeed."
Aslin and Firia seem to have realized something. They exchange a few words with the Dungeon Master, Labyris, and Shera, who is standing nearby.
"Ah, I understand now."
"That is wonderful, Aslin, Firia."
"Hehehe."
For some reason, the two of them look delighted as their heads are patted. After finishing, Labyris turns back to face me.
"You're right. My consideration was lacking. I should have said this first after hearing what you had to say."
I brace myself. I can't imagine what they discussed, but under normal circumstances, being executed for this wouldn't be strange. However, the words that left Labyris's lips were far removed from any talk of execution...
"I approve of Principal Popuri’s policies. I understand the grief of those Holy Sword Users, but that does not give them the right to bring misery to innocent people living in the present. I will not hold you responsible for cutting ties with your predecessor. I admire the resolve you have maintained until now. Naturally, I have no intention of interfering with the academy, nor am I asking you to abandon your positions as principals. However, if you wish to protect the present, then become my subordinates. That is the tribute you can offer to your predecessor, isn't it?"
Hearing that, tears welled up in my eyes. Thank goodness. Even if I follow this person, I won't be letting her death go to waste. In that case, I have no reason to hesitate.
"Lancer Magic Academy Principal, Popuri Lancer, and Vice Principal, Lara Tude. We swear our loyalty to the current Dungeon Master, Labyris-sama!!"
Upon hearing my declaration, Labyris-sama’s expression softens.
"Yes, I look forward to working with you."
"Yes, ma'am!"
"But there's no need for such stiff loyalty. First, let's secure the designated protection, and then we can talk at length. We don't have much time, but we must verify everything properly, or we'll make mistakes in the most unexpected places."
And so, the Roday rescue operation, the provision of information, and the cross-referencing of data—everything begins to move.
...Holy Sword Users, I will definitely stop you.
"Oh, and here. A candy. You seem to have eaten quite a bit, haven't you? And a cake for Lara."
"Thank you very much!!"
We definitely didn't just give in because of the food, you know?
***
Side: Labyris
"Yuki!!"
I can't stop myself now. I dive toward Yuki.
"Whoa, what's wrong, Labyris?"
My kind husband catches me firmly as I dive into him. Ah, he smells so good. This is what I live for.
"Oh, I'm just so tired today. I worked hard in your place, Yuki. Please hold me tighter."
"Haha, thank you, Labyris."
The meeting with the principals today was exhausting. I wouldn't be able to handle it without these kinds of perks.
And then, in Yuki's arms, I drift off to sleep as if I had lost consciousness. Ah, I should have asked for some "intimate time" too.
For now, I’m going to make all those troublesome Holy Sword Users dance the Matsuken Samba while completely naked.
And so, the Holy Sword Users decided to leave the troublesome Yuki and his group for last, opting instead to focus their strategy on conquering other countries first.
Furthermore, the conflict between the Principal and the Holy Sword Users has become clear.
Now, it truly is Date or Alive!!
To move toward Roday smoothly, I must make Samantha fall for me!!
By the way, here is a secret about the side story: actually, that other idea is older than the "Certain Victory" one. However, I felt that without building up the foundation, that wild idea wouldn't be accepted, so I’ve been writing the "Certain Victory Dungeon" little by little.
Well then, look forward to the next installment of both!!
Ah, as for the other one, it's obvious that "turning the magical girl over to the police" is the number one choice.