第３２１堀：逃げ道を塞ぐ (Part2)
"I can accept the scenario where I lose, too. If the three of us challenge Yuki-dono and lose, it’s a clear sign of insufficient strength. It would only be natural to adopt the opinions of the man who achieved such a feat. He doesn't desire to seize control, and there’s no reason to fear the nation will collapse."
"My, you certainly have a silver tongue."
"Don't be an idiot. We’re in a state of war, and everyone is on edge; we need a cushion somewhere. We were only thinking in terms of 'take or be taken.' Hifi-san has been making preparations for a long time, and she wouldn't just stop them because someone told her to. She needs a valid reason. This is perfect, isn't it? If a newcomer like me can defeat the three of you, it’s clear that our strength is lacking, and it would be better to rethink our strategy."
"Well, I suppose so. What do you think? Will they agree?"
"Yes, I believe it’s a reasonable proposal. I don't mind, but Yuki-dono, we will be coming at you with everything we have. Please don't expect us to hold back."
"Yes, I think that’s for the best. It would be a problem if I won and you claimed you weren't serious. I’ll maneuver carefully so I don't get injured, but if I feel things are going south, I’ll surrender. Please don't attack me once I do."
"I-I see. We shall do our best. Please wait a moment; I will go fetch them."
It’s quite disheartening. Regardless, since this isn't a bad outcome for us, I go to call the other two.
"Ah, my head still hurts. My ears are ringing."
"You are recovering, though. It seems the objective was to stun us temporarily."
"Yeah, I suppose that was the intention. But I was the one who took that blast right next to my ears, and I ended up fainting."
"That sound was something else. The noise and the shockwave from the explosion are enough to knock anyone out. Perhaps that is a viable tactic."
"True. If we utilize that, we might be able to bring down an enemy nation without shedding unnecessary blood."
The two of them are leaning against the trunk of a cherry tree, chatting away. Honestly, since I had forced both Comet and Taizo-dono to follow me, I had expected them to cut ties with me easily. But in reality, both of them offered their cooperation.
...This might be the only achievement I've had in the last few hundred years.
"Oh? What’s wrong, Hifi?"
"Is something the matter, Hifi-dono?"
"Ah, no. It seems there’s been a change, or perhaps a misunderstanding, regarding the duel."
"A change?"
"A misunderstanding?"
Both of them tilt their heads. Yes, I want to tilt my head, too. Or rather, how am I supposed to explain this? ...For now, I’ll just convey what was discussed earlier.
"Ah, I see. Even if Popuri and the others are on his side, he is a newcomer, after all."
"Hmm, I see. The story makes sense, and I believe it works in our favor. I agree with Hifi-dono's opinion that if we are defeated by this, our plans certainly need to be redrawn."
"Agreed. No problem here. Besides, it’s against Yuki-kun, but this is a chance to redeem myself for that earlier blunder, so I’ll be sure to give it my all."
It seems they understood the situation, and both are eager to participate.
"No holding back."
"I know. If we lose after this, we won't even be in a position to complain."
"Indeed. Excuses like 'we were caught off guard' won't hold water. We should learn from the opponent who defeated Comet-dono and face him with our full strength from the start."
The three of us exchange these words and return to the spot where Luna-sama and Yuki-dono are waiting.
"So, you’ve both heard the story? Any problems with it?"
"No, none at all."
"None. However, Yuki-kun... are you sure about this?"
Taizo-dono asks Yuki-dono with a complex expression.
"Yes. I’ll treat Taizo-dono’s concern as nothing more than an old man’s unnecessary worry."
"Hmph, I see. I’m looking forward to it."
...? What does that mean? Well, as long as the two of them understand each other, I suppose it’s fine. Neither of them seems to have any malicious intent.
"Now, take your distance."
At that command, we and Yuki-dono move away, centering ourselves around Luna-sama.
"Well then, this will be the first and last duel with no room for complaints. From this moment, the duel between Yuki and Hifi’s group shall commence."
Luna-sama raises her arm...
Cherry blossom petals fill the air, dyeing the view in shades of pink. When the flurry ends and the petal directly in front of Luna-sama falls to the ground...
"Begin!!"
Her arm swings down.
Now, all that’s left is to go at him with everything we have from the start!!
From here on, we show our true colors.
Well, as you readers likely know, you’re already aware that they are about to be crushed in every sense—physically and mentally!!
There’s no need to state the obvious.
So, how will these three be trampled?!!
Can you even imagine it?!!
The reasons? The methods? Stay tuned for the next chapter!!