第６４４堀：大丈夫（物理的に） (Part1)
Chapter 644: It’s Fine (Physically)
Side: Kagura
“...And so, a group of the dead is currently making its way here from the Cyper Cathedral.”
“““...”””
We couldn't find the words to respond to Agil’s report.
I mean, how could we? It didn't feel real.
The idea of the dead moving about was simply impossible.
“Unfortunately, it’s the truth. You’ve already seen undead like zombies plenty of times during training, right?”
“““...”””
With that, our attempt to escape reality was crushed.
But I still have it easy.
Yes, I’m still better off than most.
But Princess Carrie and Princess Stasia...
I glanced at them nervously. They were staring down at the documents in their hands, remaining in total silence.
“Don’t deny it. This is the reality unfolding right now. And the reason this group of the dead is heading toward the cathedral is...”
As Agil began to explain, the princesses spoke up.
“To eliminate us?”
“Because that fool said to despair, I assume.”
“...That is likely the case. I know this may be painful for you two, but...”
Agil, having heard the history between the princesses and Princess Arge, seemed to struggle with his words.
“It is fine. Falling here would do no good for the world. It would only be playing into the Mad King’s hands. I will strike down Sister Arge.”
“As will I. Besides, she was never the type to accept being an enemy of the nation. If Arge still has any consciousness left, she would wish to be struck down by us. As her sisters, it is only natural that we perform the final rites.”
It wasn't natural at all.
Both of them were crying.
Of course they were. Not only had their loved ones been killed, but their remains were now being used by those very people.
Any normal person would be consumed by rage.
“...I am glad to hear your resolve. Depending on the situation, I had intended to have you two evacuate from this headquarters and handle it ourselves. However, if General Steve or I judge that things are becoming too dangerous, you will be pulled back immediately. Even if we have to use force.”
“...Understood.”
“...Naturally. Though, I cannot honestly say whether we will be able to remain calm.”
Silence spread through the room.
I didn't know what to say. What could I possibly say to comfort them?
As I pondered this, General Steve received a communication from Yuki and began to respond.
“Hello? Boss? Ah, yes. The undead group, just now. Yes. Yes. Ah, understood.”
“What was that?”
“He said that once we’re done discussing the undead, we should provide the information to the Archbishops as well.”
“I have no obligation to tell them. ...Though, I suppose I can’t say that.”
“The destination is here, after all. Well, they’re targeting us too, but since they’ll likely try to kill the Archbishops, if we let them handle it on their own and they end up dying, it’ll hinder our future plans.”
“Understood. I’m going to inform the Archbishops that the undead are approaching. Everyone else, stand by.”
With that, Agil left the room, accompanied by Vilia and Dressa as his escorts.
“Ah, well, I’m going back to backup duty. You’re all still on mission, and I know a lot has happened, but keep a level head.”
“...Yes. Thank you.”
“...I am grateful for the General’s devotion.”
As the princesses spoke, General Steve looked troubled before vanishing. He must have returned to guarding us from the shadows.
But there was no brightness left for those of us remaining.
We saved Enora, suppressed the Mad King’s followers, and recovered the jewel—so why?
I thought it was all over...
“*Sigh*. Sister. Let’s organize the situation.”
“You’re right. We can’t let the others see us like this.”
The two of them suddenly slapped their own faces with both hands, the sound of the impact echoing sharply through the room.
Everyone was stunned by the sudden action, but seeing the red marks on their cheeks, I finally snapped out of my daze.
“P-Princesses!? What are you doing!?”
“What do you mean? We are simply steeling ourselves.”
“Apologies for the concern. We are fine now. If we just sit here in a daze, we’ll only end up being forced to evacuate. Isn't that right, Lady Kagura?”
“N-no, I suppose you’re right. But...”
“Kagura. We appreciate the sentiment, but that is a kindness we cannot afford to lean on. If we run now, we will regret it for the rest of our lives.”
“Indeed. Arge is already dead. And even if she is being controlled as an undead, the fact that we might be able to see her again is not necessarily a bad thing. Besides, we cannot leave the duty of returning her to the dead to anyone else. In that sense, we are fortunate.”
“Yes. Normally, one cannot converse with the dead. In fact, it is rare for bodies to even return from the battlefield. We are truly lucky.”
“Princesses...”
*Strong.*
I truly thought so. I knew of their resolve, but to see them pull themselves back together in such a situation...
I’m different. If I were in their shoes, I would surely be crying.
I could easily imagine the result: I’d be killed in an instant.
“However, setting aside Sister Arge, the problem is the members of the First Three Houses.”
“Indeed. As we heard from Sota, they fought through both the Demon King War and the Mad King War. Their level is far beyond what we can handle, and the gap in experience is significant.”
“It will be a difficult fight. Kagura, do you have the courage to point your blade at your ancestors? Can you stand against them?”
“I appreciate your concern for us, but the same applies to you. Are you prepared to fight? Given the situation, Agil will likely step forward to negotiate first, but eventually, we and the Archbishops will have to join the discussion. But it will almost certainly turn into a battle. If you hesitate then, you will die.”
“Do not expect support from General Steve or Agil. They cannot provide precise protection while in such close proximity to enemies of that caliber.”
*Ugh.* When put that way, I lost my confidence.
I was worried about the princesses, but I had to worry about myself, too.
...At this rate, I’ll be fighting the undead of the First Generations.
What should I do? Can I cast magic against people I know?
I’ve experienced real combat. If I don't do it, I’ll be the one killed.
I’m sure it’ll be fine. I think.
I have to answer clearly, or they might relegate me to the rear.
If that happens, Yuki’s evaluation of me will drop.
I have to prevent that at all costs!!