Imperial VII-2

There's nothing to it one way or the other.

That's right, Mr. Tarou.

Explain it properly.

"How do we fight against the kingdom?" "What will our lives be like from now on?" "What exactly are these people, anyway?"

They look at each other face to face.

A look of confusion, as if saying, "What are you talking about?"

"Are you sure? We can't rest easy tonight unless we figure out how to face the kingdom head-on."

"Even if we're fighting, we still need rest. We have to stabilize our lives first."

"What the hell are you people even?!?"

Chaos erupts as everyone starts shouting at once.

They're energetic even though it's nighttime...

Or rather, aren't they being a bit too energetic? I'm pretty worn out here.

"Ugh, quiet down! I'm exhausted today. You can pick your own rooms. We'll figure out tomorrow's plans tomorrow. Let's all introduce ourselves tomorrow. And me... I'm..."

"I'm what?"

"Sleeping."

With just a single phrase, he quickly entered the room he always used and dove onto the bed.

Though it hadn't been used in a long time, it had been carefully maintained.

No doubt Riruka had taken care of it.

I must remember to thank her tomorrow...

Before he even realized it, he had easily let go of consciousness.

At that moment, two women had taken positions on either side of the room, sandwiching Taro—something he would learn later.

From the morning on, discussions had begun.

It began with introductions and a recount of what had happened since he arrived in the kingdom.

Incidentally, I had also invited Coil over to lend his wisdom.

The house, too large for one person, had now become a bustling household.

"So, you're saying Taro was assigned a major role in the kingdom's elite research division and ended up completely turning against the kingdom?"

Coil neatly summarized it with ease.

And I'm growing weary of the trouble I'm in right now.

"Yeah, looks like it..."

"Hah... Still getting dragged into problems, I see. So, what do you want with the kingdom?"

...It's complicated. I don't harbor any hatred toward the kingdom. Naturally, I don't want to fight.

"I don't want to fight, but I do want to stop them from using the new type of magic stone. And William's situation worries me too."

"That means we'll have to go back to the kingdom. When exactly... that's the question."

His gaze shifts. Ahead, he sees the knight named Lina, recovering from her injuries and managing to move around somehow. Her condition seems much improved.

Thankfully, everyone survived.

But life in this new land—adjusting to it will take time. I should probably stay close and offer support.

"Mr. Taro, please don't worry about us."

Lina, sensing something, quickly spoke up.

"But you don't know anything about this area, do you?"

"Yes, but I can't rely on you forever. You're helping me look for my brother. I'll show you I can handle my own life."

"Hmm... I see. Before I go back to the kingdom, I'll need to prepare carefully. Until then, let me support you."

"Yes, I understand."

I'm heading to the kingdom this time. There seems to be a dangerous guy around!

Noel declares, standing in a heroic pose.

No, it's a war! It's dangerous!

Were you not dangerous this time?

...That was close...

That's right. Taro, you're strong as a mage, but weak as a warrior. That's why I'm going with you!

That sounds good, doesn't it?

For once, Alex spoke up with his opinion.

"We're planning to search for William. Apparently, he's been achieving results in combat zones. That means we'll inevitably have to go to a battlefield. As she said, combat experience will play an important role."

"If everyone's agreed on that... Noel, will you come with us?"

"Of course!"

"Alright, let's get things sorted out."

Coil took charge of summarizing the plan.

"First, Taro will return to the combat zone. It's to rescue that man, William. But since the location is what it is, we need to prepare thoroughly.

In the meantime, we'll look after Miss Lina."

Something like that...

With the immediate strategy decided, the group dispersed.

As they were leaving, Alex quietly approached.

"I'll be joining the next expedition. However, depending on the situation, I might need to act independently."

I have a vague feeling about something.

"Are you really seeking revenge against your family's enemies?"

"...I'm not sure... I don't know..."

"What do you mean...?"

"Of course, I feel the sorrow of losing my family. But it's as if the bitterness has faded with time. Only the memory of what I can't forgive remains... I think."

"So you're saying your emotions aren't stirred... But if that's the case..."

"I'm no longer thinking about revenge at all."

"Then... what?"

There's someone I'd like to question briefly. It seems he's someone within the kingdom's core...

So be it; I pray that the man with ulterior motives does not appear.

Alex left after leaving behind just a brief conversation.