Chapter 0493 Unease
-x-X-x-
That day, the Free City was peaceful. In the morning, at least.
But around noon, an uneasy atmosphere began to settle in…
"Ah, wasn't it called the 'Tiger's Fang'? Their report should be ready soon, right? I'm excited! I wonder what delicious places to eat they'll have found in this city."
"We still have a few days, right? But yes, I am looking forward to it."
"How about today we go to 'Happy Eats'? Once the kids finish that dining guide, we'll probably be visiting the spots they list, so maybe we should go now."
'Happy Eats' that Ryo suggested was a formidable restaurant where they had eaten on their first and second day in the Free City, leaving both thoroughly stuffed.
Each meal was substantial… probably just the right amount for an adult doing manual labor.
It wasn't excessively large by any means.
It was simply too delicious, leading the two to order more than they could handle.
Who decided that one meal per person was enough?!
Spouting lines fit for big eaters, the two stepped through the doors of 'Happy Eats'.
But… they immediately noticed something strange.
"There are no customers…"
"It's usually packed around lunch."
Ryo murmured suspiciously, and Abel nodded in agreement.
They always made sure to arrive before the lunch crowd to secure a seat.
Today was no different.
But for there to be no other customers—this was a first.
"I'm sorry, but we don't have anything to serve today."
From the back of the store came the owner.
They didn't know his name, but they knew he ran the kitchen.
His wife and a young man and woman, likely staff, handled the floor and the washing.
But today, only the owner was there.
"You don't have anything to serve…?"
"We couldn't get our ingredients. I apologize."
When Ryo asked, looking disappointed, the owner grimaced in response.
Indeed, there was none of the usual delicious aroma.
The food hadn't been prepared.
"I see. We'll come back another time."
With heavy hearts, they left the store.
"What does it mean, they couldn't get ingredients?"
"I'm not sure. Maybe he got pickpocketed?"
"What… Well, that's possible, but if that's the case, I swear I'll freeze every pickpocket in this city!"
"Hey, stop that, idiot."
Ryo's intent to imprison all the thieves was promptly curbed by Abel.
But…
Their next stop, the 'Eat Till You Drop Restaurant', was also…
"Huh? It's closed here too…"
"There's a closed sign on the door."
Ryo and Abel looked at the 'Closed' sign hanging on the entrance door.
"This is definitely strange."
"Agreed. Let's check the nearby restaurants too."
They hadn't been to them, but they knew there were other dining places around.
They decided to check them all.
And they soon discovered:
"Every restaurant…"
"None of them are open…"
The two were plunged into the depths of despair.
At noon, citizens who had just finished their morning work came out for lunch, only to fall into the same pit of despair as Ryo and Abel.
Seeing the citizens' saddened faces mirror their own, the two headed back to their inn.
The inn's dining area, the 'Freedom Breeze Inn', was open for lunch, although they hadn't used it much.
They usually dined elsewhere at noon… and reserved the inn's dining for the evening.
"We don't have any other choice."
"The food at the 'Freedom Breeze Inn' is good too."
It was just a matter of not wanting to eat in the same place for both lunch and dinner.
But with a rotating menu, it wasn't much of an issue.
Talking over these things, the two headed back to the 'Freedom Breeze Inn'.
At the reception desk…
"There is a letter for you from the Adventurers' Mutual Aid Society."
"From the Mutual Aid Society?"
"A letter?"
The receptionist, who had a dignified look, handed over the letter, and Abel and Ryo exchanged puzzled looks.
It was too soon for the restaurant guide to be ready.
What could this be?
Abel opened the letter, and Ryo peeked over his shoulder.
Upon reading it, Ryo took off running.
"Hey, wait!"
Abel shouted, chasing after Ryo.
The townsfolk they passed by must have been surprised.
By the look on Ryo's face.
Abel struggled to keep up.
"Is he really a magician…?"
The stamina-loving swordsman couldn't catch up to the magician.
But Abel quickly remembered.
"It's Ryo, after all…"
A few minutes later. They arrived in front of the Adventurers' Mutual Aid Society.
Abel arrived a bit later, but Ryo hadn't entered the building yet.
He was standing outside, catching his breath.
Seeing this, Abel was surprised.
Knowing Ryo, he would have stormed in. Shouting something like "What's going on here?!".
Ryo calmed his breathing, nodded a few times, and entered surprisingly cheerful.
"Hello~."
There wasn't a hint of the despair he felt while reading the letter.
"Ryo-dono… Abel-dono, sorry to trouble you."
The president of the Adventurers' Mutual Aid Society greeted them.
Inside were only the president and three members of the 'Tiger's Fang' who had taken on their request.
Upon closer look, it seemed like… the three's eyes were red and swollen.
They must have been crying until just recently.
"I read the letter. You wish to cancel… to terminate the request?"
Ryo asked in as calm a voice as he could muster.
Abel noticed a slight tremble in Ryo's voice.
Though probably no one else did, their long friendship allowed him to pick up on it…
"Yes…"
The president said and offered them seats.
After taking a moment to gather her thoughts, she began.
"Actually, we can no longer continue the investigation."
"And the reason?"
Ryo asked, just barely maintaining his composure.
"The investigation of dining establishments in this free city revealed that most of the shops are closed."
"Yes, we experienced that ourselves just a while ago."
"Furthermore, it's not a temporary situation; they're likely to remain closed for a while."
"What…?"
The president's words left Ryo speechless.
And Abel listened in silence, too.
The news that they would remain closed for a while was beyond his expectations.
"Why is it that… they're expected to stay closed for a while?"
Ryo asked.
His voice trembling slightly.
Enough that not only Abel but even the president noticed.
"You both experienced that the stores were closed, but do you know why they were closed?"
"Well… the owner of a place we frequent said they couldn't get ingredients…"
"Yes. That's true for every shop."
"Why…?"
"Because the Grand Duchy bought up everything."
At that moment, Ryo stood up.
Abel saw it.
The surge of emotion across Ryo's face.
But Ryo quickly regained his composure.
Through sheer force of will.
Only then did Abel understand.
Why Ryo had restored his expression so quickly.
Why he had maintained calm since they'd entered.
And why he'd made an effort to calm himself repeatedly before coming in.
It was for the sake of the three young adventurers.
For Ryo and Abel, and the President as well, those three looked on anxiously.
The three who had failed the task and cried over it.
For these three children, not yet adults, Ryo kept his cool.
Children watch adults carefully.
And they understand more than adults think.
They might struggle to logically explain what they understand, but they do understand.
And they remember it, both in their minds and hearts.
Even years, decades later, that memory stays.
Whether the influence is good or bad, that memory remains.
That's why adults must always be mindful of how children are watching them…
And that's incredibly hard to do.
But at the very least, Ryo acted with that intention.
Imperfect as he was, within his limits.
Yet even that iron will was cracked by this truth.
The Grand Duchy's hoarding.
"So… because further investigation isn't possible… you want to call off the commission?"
Ryo sat back down and, as if to calm himself, spoke slowly.
"Yes. Unfortunately, as long as the shops remain closed…"
The president's expression was full of regret.
Naturally so.
If this task were completed, the three members of 'Tiger's Fang' would be able to advance to level eight.
At level eight, they could be entrusted with various commissions.
But at their current level nine, there are none to give them.
Requests may come in eventually, but… with the Grand Duchy's forces occupying the area, who knows when…
Mara, Nikos, and Rosa from 'Tiger's Fang' understood this in their minds.
They listened in without saying a word.
Looking down in frustration.
Their heads understood, but emotionally, it was difficult.
"I had requested that you cover ten establishments. How many have you managed to document?"
"We've completed six. I have the information from the three, and I'm compiling it into a report now. I can hand it over tomorrow."
"If it's canceled now, the task is treated as a failure, right?"
"Yes… that's how the guild's regulations work."
The president nodded at Ryo's confirmation.
The three of "Tiger's Fang" trembled with frustration.
And Rosa was beginning to cry again.
With Nikos by her side comforting her.
"What if… I say that six establishments are enough? Would that make this commission a success?"
At Ryo's words, Mara's head snapped up.
Rosa, who was crying, and Nikos, who had been comforting her, looked at Ryo, too.
"Yes… if the client says so, it'll be considered a success. Are you sure?"
"Of the ten requested, they managed to gather information on more than half, six. And the reason they had to halt the investigation had nothing to do with them or the guild. As the client, I'd like to consider it a success based on the information for six."
As soon as Ryo said this, the three's gazes shifted to the president.
The president smiled slightly and gave a small nod.
"The client's word is final. I'll consider this task a success."
"Yay!"
The three jumped out of their chairs, elated.
Watching them, Ryo smiled as well.
But Abel knew the truth.
That Ryo was angry.
No, he was furious…
After completing the formalities to close the task, Ryo and Abel left the guild's building.
The president, as well as the three from 'Tiger's Fang', thanked them repeatedly and saw them off at the door.
For a while, Ryo and Abel walked in silence.
Once they were far enough from the guild, Ryo finally spoke.
"Abel, I'm angry."
"I know."
"Of course, not at those kids or the guild's President."
"Right."
"I'm furious with the free city's government for letting its people starve, but there's an even bigger target for my anger."
"Yeah…"
"I'm going to have a word with them. Don't stop me."
"I won't."
Normally, Abel would stop Ryo's more radical actions, but this time, he promised not to.
He knew where Ryo was going.
And that it would lead to an undesirable outcome.
But Abel thought he shouldn't stop him.
Breaking the spirit of those you wish to conquer is a sound strategy.
But this wasn't about strategy.
Not as a king.
But as a person, Abel decided not to stop Ryo.
And so, the two of them headed for the Grand Duchy's embassy.
-x-X-x-
In front of the Atinjo Grand Duchy Embassy, a large crowd had gathered.
Among them, there were some people that Ryo and Abel had seen before.
"Is that the owner of 'Happy Eats'?"
"Oh? Ah, it's you guys. I'm sorry for earlier, even though you came by to eat at my restaurant again."
The owner of 'Happy Eats' was there as well.
Upon closer inspection, the owner of 'Eat-Till-You-Drop Restaurant' and other chefs from various restaurants were present.
"We all came to ask them to stop hoarding ingredients…"
The requests from the gathered people were the same.
It wasn't just restaurant people; there seemed to be some market-related individuals as well.
However…
"No one's coming out, and there's no explanation."
"Well, that's to be expected."
People muttered explanations, but Abel understood why the embassy wasn't saying anything.
The reason was simple.
They weren't obliged to explain.
And the embassy wasn't a place one could just walk into.
Even the city's guard couldn't enter—there was a custom like that.
This custom, which existed in all the Central and Western countries, seemed to also apply in the southern part of the Eastern countries.
Among the gathered crowd, some appeared to be from the city guard or similar groups, but the fact that they couldn't take any action made that clear as well.
At that moment.
"Please open the gate!"
A loud voice echoed through the area.
Even Abel couldn't immediately recognize who it was.
But after a moment, he understood…
"Ryo, I didn't know you could project such a voice?"
His mutter went unheard by anyone.
For Ryo, who had practiced kendo, it was natural to be able to project his voice from the gut, but still…
There was no response from the embassy.
"If you want me to enter, please open the gate."
The voice rang out again.
But the content was confusing.
No matter how one looked at it, the words didn't match up with the first one.
Then, the next moment.
The embassy's gate vanished.
Yes, almost everyone present recognized that the gate had 'vanished'.
If anyone had been paying close attention, they might have noticed that the gate had been finely chopped into small pieces.
However, even those who noticed wouldn't have been able to tell what had done the chopping.
"Ryo's water jets, huh."
Only Abel, who knew about
In any case, the embassy's gate was gone.
That was the same as it being opened.
"Magic to make the gate disappear is amazing! Thank you for opening the gate!"
Ryo's voice rang out a third time.
The embassy staff were stunned.
Naturally so.
The gate had suddenly disappeared.
Of course, there was no magic mechanism to make the gate vanish.
In the first place, it wouldn't have been opened.
Ryo confidently entered.
After he had said, "If you want me to enter, please open the gate", and the gate was now… in a state where it could be interpreted as having been opened, he entered.
Believing he had been invited.
Later, he could claim that as his excuse.
Even if everyone knew it was a lie, if one maintained the right form, the right pretext, or at least followed the procedure, it could be accepted.
That was the essence of diplomacy.
Ryo had arranged the form with his own words.
And the situation had unfolded in line with those words.
So, he entered the embassy.
Diplomatically, there was no problem.
And here, in the heart of diplomacy, was the embassy.
It would be difficult to charge Ryo with illegal entry.
Of course, all of this was only possible because of 'power'.
One should not forget that.
If they had no power, the other party would press them with force.
That too, was the essence of diplomacy.
"We'll go and talk to them. You all stay here."
Abel said, and the people gathered in front of the embassy nodded.
The gate had suddenly disappeared, and the magician entered after saying, "I'll come in", but it was too much to enter themselves.
They would do well to follow Abel's instructions.
After confirming that no one else was going in, Abel followed after Ryo.
The Grand Duchy soldiers, who were supposed to protect the embassy, immediately began responding to the unexpected disappearance of the gate that was allowing entry.
As the soldiers tried to attack the robed magician who was walking from the gate, they…
Bang.
When they tried to approach the magician, they collided with an invisible barrier.
"What's this?!"
"Is that a
"It's incredibly tough."
They tried stabbing with swords and spears, but the barrier didn't seem to budge.
"Ah, thank you for the welcome. But it's fine. I understand where to go without needing a guide."
Ryo said with a smile.
Abel, who knew Ryo well, felt cold sweat running down his back when he saw that smile.
"He's really mad."
He muttered.
When Ryo reached the building, the door of the embassy also disappeared.
It was instantly sliced into pieces by 2048
"Thank you for opening! That means I can come in, right?!"
As he had done with the gate, Ryo spoke loudly and formally.
He had to keep the formalities in order.
He had attended a garden party at the Suje Kingdom Embassy, so the Grand Duchy probably knew about it. Still, he didn't want to cause too much trouble for the Suje Kingdom.
Still, considering they were planning to station an army in a free city and talking about annexing it… perhaps it was too late for that concern.
Ryo entered the building. With Abel following him.
Naturally, Grand Duchy soldiers lined up in front of them, trying to block their path…
(Ice Wall; Move)
"Whoa! I-I'm being pushed by an invisible wall…"
"What is this?"
"Hey, hold on a second!"
The Grand Duchy soldiers were shouting.
Some even said to wait, but of course, Ryo had no intention of stopping.
Ryo and Abel didn't know where the room they were aiming for was located.
However, they did know that important people were usually not on the first floor.
The Grand Duchy Embassy was a spacious, two-story wooden building.
They could reasonably assume that their target would be on the second floor.
Ryo charged ahead.
So far, there had been no fighting whatsoever.
The soldiers were blocked by the
Ryo and Abel reached the second floor.
A hallway stretched out to the left and right, but they couldn't tell which direction held their target.
"The most important room should be…"
Ryo muttered, in a casual tone, as he started walking to the right.
The soldiers blocking the path ahead looked determined.
Their resolve to defend against the magician, even at the risk of death, was evident.
"Hmm."
Ryo murmured, then spun on his heel and started down the left hallway instead.
There were soldiers there as well, though… they didn't seem as resolute as those on the right.
"On second thought, let's go this way."
He said loudly, turning again to charge right up the right hallway.
Clearing his way with
"What the—damn it, what is this?"
"We can't see it, but it's pushing us…"
"This is too strong for a
The scene from the floor below repeated as they moved forward without engaging in any combat.
At the end of the hallway, they saw an impressive door.
Standing guard were soldiers holding spears.
Ryo took note of this.
"Found it."
He murmured quietly.
"
He chanted, and a layer of ice covered both him and Abel.
It was a nearly invisible ice armor, made originally for Queen Iliaja.
"We're going to charge into the heart of the enemy."
"Got it."
He informed Abel.
Abel replied without hesitation.
At this point, he had no intention of stopping Ryo.
The guards at the door to the inner room were pushed aside by the invisible ice wall… as Ryo stepped in front of the door, it vanished just like the others.
The two entered the room.
At the far end sat a handsome man with a calm, confident expression.
Beside him stood another man, visibly furious, his face flushed red.
"Thank you for inviting us. Since you opened the door, we took the liberty of entering."
Ryo said, offering a formal Central Countries-style bow.
A display of perfect etiquette.
After all, Ryo was the premier duke of the Kingdom of Knightley.
-x-X-x-
"You're not invited here!"
The man, standing with his face bright red, shouted angrily.
"Strange, isn't it? The door opened on its own, so I thought it was an invitation."
Talk about the height of shamelessness.
Behind Ryo, Abel listened quietly. He understood the entire situation yet kept an expressionless face.
Not even shaking his head.
This was because he was conscious of the gaze of Duke Helb, who remained seated.
"The crime of barging into an embassy—you do understand that, don't you?!"
The standing man yelled once again.
"As I said, I entered only because the door opened and invited me in. By the way, who are you?"
Ryo asked politely, inquiring about the identity of the person he had been speaking to.
Although he knew the man held some authority in the embassy, not knowing his name made it difficult to communicate.
"I am Zlurma, the Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Atinjo Grand Duchy."
"Zlurma… Ah, no, just a stray thought crossed my mind about your name. Secretary Zlurma, I would like to speak with the person in charge here."
"What? Watch your mouth! A lowlife like you…"
"Enough, Zlurma."
Duke Helb interrupted Zlurma's angry words.
He continued.
"We met at the garden party, didn't we? Ryo-dono of the Kingdom of Knightley, and Abel-dono. I recall that Abel-dono was the one upset at the garden party. This time, is it Ryo-dono?"
With a smile, Duke Helb made his comment.
"No, I'm not angry at all."
Ryo declared it firmly.
But Abel knew it was a clear lie…
"Is that so? So, may I ask the reason for your visit today?"
Duke Helb accepted Ryo's words and inquired.
Genuinely interested in the purpose of their visit.
Ryo found this somewhat strange.
Given the commotion outside, it should have been clear that he came to protest the monopolizing of food supplies.
Still, he decided to respond politely.
"People from the Atinjo Grand Duchy have been monopolizing the food in the marketplace, and I'm here to protest against that."
"Monopolizing?"
Duke Helb repeated softly in a questioning tone.
He looked over at Second Secretary Zlurma.
"Zlurma?"
"Y-yes! We are doing it to hasten the subjugation of the citizens…"
"I see."
Duke Helb nodded, acknowledging Zlurma's answer.
"It seems it's true that the supplies were monopolized. However, as a policy of occupation, I believe it's not wrong, so I have no intention of reprimanding Zluma and his team."
Duke Helb stated clearly.
"I understand. Still, I'd like you to stop monopolizing the supplies from now on."
Ryo clearly stated his request.
"As I just said, weakening the opposition by seizing food supplies is not incorrect as an occupation policy. It's the correct course of action for the Grand Duchy's military, and it's difficult for me to decide to stop it on my own."
"So, you intend to continue monopolizing food supplies after tomorrow?"
"That's correct."
At Ryo's confirmation, Duke Helb nodded firmly.
"So, negotiations have broken down… How unfortunate."
"Yes, it is unfortunate."
"Duke Helb, I had thought we could become good friends…"
"What a coincidence, I thought so too, Ryo-dono."
Ryo gave a slight shake of his head, while Duke Helb kept smiling.
Behind Ryo, Abel murmured, "Really?"—but everyone ignored it.
"I've confirmed one thing."
"And what would that be?"
"Duke Helb, you are not human, are you?"
Ryo said it casually, as if mentioning he wasn't in the mood for tea.
The two showed no extreme reaction.
"You! You insolent wretch!"
Second Secretary Zlurma shouted.
Thinking Ryo was insulting Duke Helb.
Ryo immediately noticed this.
"Secretary Zlurma, you misunderstand. I meant it exactly as I said. Duke Helb is not of the human race."
"…What?"
"To be precise… should I say he's a mix of human and something else? That sense of distortion I felt at the garden party—that was it. I finally figured it out."
Zlurma looked puzzled as Ryo nodded, further explaining.
Duke Helb, who had been wide-eyed with surprise…
"Kukuku…fufufu…Ah ha ha ha!"
Suddenly started laughing.
"D-Duke Helb?"
It was a laugh so unrestrained that even Second Secretary Zlurma, standing nearby, was taken aback.
It was completely unlike his noble demeanor so far.
Duke Helb laughed heartily for more than a full minute.
By then, Abel had already drawn his sword, readying himself.
Finally, Duke Helb managed to stop laughing, though his smile remained.
"I never expected anyone to notice that. Honestly, I'm surprised."
His tone had changed.
"Fufufu, just as my brother predicted, I've met a remarkable opponent. My respect for my brother is unwavering. To have foreseen even this… To him, I shall forever pledge my loyalty."
With that, Duke Helb laughed again.
The word deranged laughter… seemed more fitting.
"So, the Grand Duke of Atinjo is of the same kind."
Ryo muttered softly.
It was just a confirmation to himself, not meant for anyone else to hear.
Yet, Duke Helb, still laughing, seemed to catch those words.
"Of course. If not, I wouldn't swear my loyalty to him."
With a wicked smile, Duke Helb affirmed.
Abel, already with sword in hand, positioned himself.
"This guy… is he an Akuma?"
Abel's question was directed at Ryo, but Duke Helb answered before Ryo could.
"Akuma! Do you lot know about Akumas? Humans, knowing Akumas? Really? Really now? That's even more astonishing than you seeing through my true form!"
"Not an Akuma, actually. If anything, he's closer to the two from the Ghost Ship Ruri."
Ryo answered Abel's question.
His voice was low.
But this answer triggered an even fiercer reaction.
"Ruri! Whoa, whoa, whoa, what are you people? You know about Akumas—and the 'two'… from Ruri? How is it possible for people like you to even exist? Ah, of course, you two aren't human either! That explains everything!"
"We're absolutely human, you know?"
"Lies! There's no way humans like you exist… and two of you. Standing right in front of me. Out with it! What are you?!"
Duke Helb refused to believe Ryo's claim.
"How many times do I have to tell you we're human…"
"I see, so you won't talk willingly. Do I have to force it out of you? Either way, I can't leave you alive. You might be an obstacle to our conquest. Die here."
"Why does it always come to this?"
"Probably because of you, Ryo…"
That last exchange was between Ryo and Abel.
"D-Duke Helb…"
Zlurma, the second secretary, who had been silent since Duke Helb's transformation, finally spoke up.
"Zlurma. Where does your loyalty lie?"
"O-of course, I offer all my loyalty to Duke Helb…"
"Good answer!"
In that instant, Zlurma's clothing burst open.
A star-shaped mark quickly appeared over his exposed chest, right above his heart.
Upon closer inspection, one could see that it was drawn by the claws extending from Duke Helb's hand.
"What is that?"
"It's a magic circle, though I've never seen this kind before."
Ryo replied to Abel's question.
Though they both understood they should strike before the enemy completed his preparations…
"Once we defeat him, we can ask about that magic circle."
"I doubt he'd tell us."
As soon as the mark was completed.
Light erupted from Zlurma's body.
"Well, I've kept you waiting. Now it's two against two."
Duke Helb said with a wicked grin.
Zluma's expression was blank, but his movements seemed sharper than before.
At some point, Duke Helb had handed him a beautiful, ornate sword.
"I'll take on the secretary."
As a swordsman, Abel decided to face Zlurma.
"Always giving me the troublesome one…"
"I think this fight started because of you, Ryo…"
Abel countered Ryo's complaint.
And with that, the two pairs clashed in battle.
-x-X-x-
Ryo struck first.
"
With no information about his opponent, jumping straight into close combat was too risky.
Naturally, Ryo opened with a magic attack.
Eight spears of ice shot toward Duke Helb.
Clang.
All eight spears bounced off an invisible wall.
They weren't annihilated.
They were deflected.
In other words, a stronger, unseen wall had blocked Ryo's
What's more, Duke Helb hadn't made any movements.
Or seemed to cast any spell.
"A talisman?"
"Ooh, you figured it out well. There aren't any sorcerers in the Central Countries, are there? None in the Suje Kingdom either?"
Ryo murmured, and Duke Helb replied with interest.
Sounding confident.
"I'll shatter that confidence!
This time, four times as many spears.
Thirty-two ice spears flew at Duke Helb.
But…
Clang, clang…
Every spear was deflected.
"Hmm…"
Ryo grimaced in frustration.
"Hahahaha! I've seen your attack power. Now, let's see your defense!"
Duke Helb laughed, pulling a paper from his pocket and tossing it forward.
"
Boom. Boom, boom, boom…
A hailstorm of thumb-sized stones shot from the talisman.
Naturally, all were repelled by the ice wall.
"Wow. That's sturdy. A wall of ice, not just a barrier, interesting."
"That level of attack doesn't leave even a scratch!"
Ryo boasted confidently.
"Then let's up the challenge. Let's see how much you can withstand."
Duke Helb pulled out three talismans and tossed them forward.
From these three talismans came three kinds of attacks:
Stone, wind, and fire.
A three-attribute simultaneous attack.
"Th-this is!"
Ryo panicked.
It was a combination of earth, wind, and fire, adding up to the fourth water attribute that he wielded—the four attributes combined.
In that instant, Ryo recalled.
He remembered fighting the Pope of the Western Church, who unleashed a simultaneous four-attribute attack.
That shattered his
The Pope had explained that.
When all four elements gather in a small space, conditions are primed for 'Resonance'… and there's a high probability of resonance occurring.
Which often leads to the 'disintegration' of certain magic spells.
So Ryo readied himself to quickly reform the
The ice wall didn't shatter; it deflected Duke Helb's talisman attacks.
'Resonance' didn't occur.
"Huh?"
Ryo tilted his head slightly.
"So you can even withstand three at once… Quite the sturdy wall."
Duke Helb muttered.
Seeming not to have intended to trigger resonance.
(Could it be… no, surely not…)
Ryo thought to himself.
(Perhaps I should test it.)
He had been driven by anger and rushed in, but now his bad habit was about to surface.
That's right, curiosity.
Curiosity killed the cat? He hoped it wouldn't kill him too…
"Is that the extent of a talisman's power?"
"Oh. Taunting me, are you? Very well; I'll take the bait!"
Duke Helb, caught by Ryo's taunt.
Took out four talismans and threw them forward.
Earth, wind, fire, and ice.
All four attributes.
(Now, this replicates the conditions from back then.)
Ryo recalled the Pope's four-attribute simultaneous attack.
The four talismans unleashed their attacks, assailing Ryo's
But…
The wall withstood the assault.
Resonance didn't occur.
"Now it's clear."
Ryo murmured.
(Attacks from talismans differ from magic attacks of the same attributes. I don't know exactly how, but they don't cause 'Resonance'.)
Ryo felt a small satisfaction.
Despite charging in recklessly out of anger, or perhaps a righteous fury—he'd learned something valuable.
Apparently, sorcerers like Duke Helb were common in these Eastern Countries.
If so, they may encounter them again when they travel through the continent to return to the central countries.
And this experience could prove useful then…
"I sacrificed Abel, but I gained something in return."
Of course, Abel hadn't been sacrificed.
He was just saying that for dramatic effect. …Probably.
Now, what he had learned was that the
And that thirty-two
(Spellcasters can use magic too. But Duke Helb hasn't cast any spells.)
Indeed, every attack and defense so far had been through talismans.
(Maybe talismans don't interfere with each other? Or could it be that when a talisman shield is active, casting spells requires deactivating it first? A trap underfoot using talismans wouldn't be out of the question either…)
Ryo recalled the coronation of Queen Iliaja.
Not only had Abel been petrified, but talismans and spirit charms had also been installed on the walls and ceiling, releasing various attacks.
This embassy was, after all, the domain of a sorcerer.
Only a fool would think there were no trap installations.
"Then I have no choice. Let me show you the pinnacle of water-attribute magic."
"Ooh?"
Ryo declared with confidence. And Duke Helb still wore a calm expression.
"
At Ryo's command, countless fine jets of water materialized, cutting through the air.
But they didn't aim at Duke Helb.
They sliced through the roof.
And the walls.
In seconds, the roof and walls were shredded, exposing the entire room to the open air.
"Hah! Incredible! What was that just now? Ice? No, water? Cutting with water? I never imagined such a thing could be possible… This must indeed be the pinnacle of water-attribute magic. Fascinating."
For some reason, Duke Helb clapped his hands with an expression of delight.
It was not sarcasm or mockery, but genuine praise.
However, Ryo wore a grim expression.
The removal of the roof and walls revealed something unexpected.
The charms and talismans that had been installed.
The charms and talismans that had been set on the ceiling were still floating in place, even though the ceiling… and indeed, the entire roof was now gone.
In other words, they were floating in midair.
Similarly, the charms and talismans that had been placed on the walls continued to exist where the walls had been.
Also, now floating in midair.
"When my Icicle Lance was deflected before, I sensed intuitively that they were distorting space, but to see it so plainly…"
"Oh… so the hidden charms and talismans are now completely visible, huh?"
Ryo grimaced as he spoke, and Duke Helb gave a wry smile.
"The fact that these charms are immune to attacks, it's unfair!"
Ryo complained.
"Even if you say that. That's simply the nature of charms."
Duke Helb replied with a shrug.
But Ryo had learned something valuable about charms.
'Charms are immune to attacks'
It wasn't just the charms wielded by Duke Helb or the sorcerer at the queen's coronation; it was a property of the charms themselves.
Know your enemy, know thyself, and you shall not fear a hundred battles.
Knowing your enemy is crucial.
However…
"So, how do I break through…?"
Even though Ryo had gathered useful information, he was at a loss.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, another battle was taking place.
One not magical like Ryo and Duke Helb's battle, but a clash of swords.
Zlurma closed the distance, initiating the fight, while Abel found himself on the defensive.
For a moment, it seemed that Abel would strike first, but he hesitated.
The memory of the queen's coronation, when he rushed forward only to be trapped in a 'stone prison' spell, resurfaced.
After a bitter failure like that…
Even a former A-rank swordsman like Abel couldn't avoid hesitation.
As a result, Zlurma attacked while Abel focused on defense.
(His skill isn't impressive, but his speed and strength are tricky…)
Abel analyzed the situation calmly.
The speed and power behind Zlurma's strikes seemed superhuman.
A single failed block would mean the end.
The force of Zlurma's sword reminded Abel of an unpleasant experience.
(It's like that demon prince I fought in the dungeon.)
During the post-cataclysm investigation, Abel had been forcefully transported to the 40th dungeon floor, where he had to face a demon prince in combat.
The prince's strength and speed were far beyond human, pushing Abel to the edge.
That memory returned vividly.
But Abel declared firmly.
"This time is different!"
Zlurma's attacks, based on sheer power and speed.
Were expertly parried by Abel.
He never tried to block head-on.
Knowing he wouldn't withstand it.
If he blocked a downward strike, it would damage his wrist or shoulder.
If he blocked an upward strike, he'd be blown away.
Blocking a horizontal strike… would also knock him back.
So Abel angled his sword to deflect Zlurma's strikes.
It was possible because of his technique.
Built from experience.
What allowed him to counter power and speed was his ability to anticipate.
This anticipation was a product of the countless hours he had dedicated to swordsmanship.
Victory.
Defeat.
All had contributed to Abel's growth.
Thus.
Even in the face of overwhelming power and speed, he stood without flinching.
Abel's sword continued to grow, fueled by his accumulated experience.
Effort never betrays.
The sword he honed since childhood.
The sword that saved lives in deadly situations.
The sword that had protected his life and the lives of his comrades.
All of that was in the sword he wielded now.
For Abel, one chance was enough.
He just needed a single opening.
Until then.
He would defend, defend, defend…
Then…
"Now!"
Pretending to deflect, Abel pulled back, causing Zlurma's strike to miss.
He rotated his body, positioning himself behind Zlurma as his opponent's balance wavered.
A strike to the heart from behind.
Abel pulled his sword back with force, and with the momentum of his rotation, he decapitated Zlurma.
"Phew…"
He took a deep breath to calm his racing blood.
The fight wasn't over yet.
Ryo was still battling Duke Helb.
Abel moved to stand behind Ryo at an angle.
"Now it's two against one."
"Impressive, Abel. That was quick."
Ryo praised, nodding at Abel as he spoke to Duke Helb.
"To think that someone who 'bears the star' would be defeated so quickly. I'm astonished."
"Much appreciated."
Duke Helb seemed genuinely surprised, though he kept smiling.
Abel replied.
"But…"
Clang.
A sound rang out sharply.
"!"
It came from Abel's body.
The headless Zlurma had stabbed at Abel.
However, the sword was deflected at the last second by Abel…
Slash, slash, slash, slash.
In an instant, Abel severed both of Zlurma's arms and legs.
Finally, he drove his sword into Zlurma's chest after falling to the ground.
"Abel… another oversight…"
"Hey, it wasn't my fault! I pierced the heart and cut off the head!"
Ryo shook his head slightly as he chided, and Abel protested.
"Next time, please cut off both arms and legs as well as the head."
"…That would make for a pretty gruesome scene."
Abel understood that Ryo's order would make things outright brutal.
During this time, Duke Helb simply watched without moving.
In fact, he had remained seated the entire time, even amid his fight with Ryo.
"A real final-boss vibe he's got there…"
"I don't know what you mean by 'final boss,' but if you mean 'big boss,' then yes, I agree."
Ryo murmured, and Abel responded.
"So, what to do next?"
Duke Helb tilted his head, muttering thoughtfully.
"It seems, for some reason, he either can't use magic or is refraining from using it."
Ryo declared, raising his voice to a normal level.
His voice carried to not only Abel but also Duke Helb, who stood opposite them.
Of course. This was intentional.
Duke Helb chuckled bitterly after hearing Ryo's words.
"To think you could see through me that far… I must apologize. Honestly, I thought as long as I engraved a star on Zurma, the talismans and spirit charms alone would be enough."
With that, Duke Helb gave a slight bow.
"You've underestimated us."
"An apology requires a deeper bow."
Even though they said these words casually, neither Ryo nor Abel let down their guard.
"It's not that I can't use magic. But if I cast a spell now, the entire Free City would disappear."
"You're bluffing!"
Duke Helb looked apologetic as he spoke, prompting Abel to shout.
Ryo, watching the two of them, intervened calmly.
"Abel, I want to think it's a bluff too… but I feel like what he — no, not 'he', but whatever Duke Helb is — said isn't entirely false."
"What do you mean?"
"It's hard to explain. It's like that moment right before the launch of 'Long-Range Diffusion Goddess's Mercy'…or like a bow pulled taut, just about to release an arrow… It gives me this sense of tension, like I wouldn't want to poke at it with a needle…"
Ryo tried to convey his impression.
He wasn't sure what exactly gave him that feeling.
Whether it was magic power or the buildup of a spell…
So, he simply expressed what he felt honestly.
"Indeed, a skilled magician as expected. You're mostly correct."
"But if you intend to unleash that power on the townspeople, we must stop you now."
"Worry not. The citizens are not my target."
"And we're supposed to believe that?"
"The people are not the enemy; they're subjects. Or perhaps, they're something to protect. Both interpretations are fundamentally the same, so interpret it however you like. My target is not the people."
Ryo questioned him, and Duke Helb replied.
His face was now completely devoid of the previous smile.
The smile had vanished.
"I understand. We'll trust you."
"Hey, Ryo?"
Abel called out, surprised at Ryo's nod of agreement.
"Abel, it seems like something is happening that neither we nor the townspeople know about. Perhaps even this occupation by the Grand Duchy's army is related to it."
"Even if that's true…"
"Yes, even so, I dislike the idea of occupying another country by force. If the people of the Free City ever wish for it, then… we'll lend them our power."
Ryo spoke resolutely.
Even he couldn't fully explain it, but he felt he didn't want to fight here and now.
It wasn't about winning or losing.
He sensed that, regardless of the outcome, things would only worsen from here.
Why did he make such a decision?
It was probably an unconscious judgment, based on all the information he'd accumulated so far.
Some information that his conscious mind didn't deem important enough to remember.
Had been retained in his subconscious, analyzed…
It's a process common to humans.
The result of that process is what we call intuition or a gut feeling.
"Our demand is simple, stop your monopolization of the market immediately. If that's accepted, we'll leave the embassy."
"Very well. I promise that as the Ambassador of the Atinjo Grand Duchy."
Ryo proposed, and Duke Helb accepted.
Duke Helb returned to the perfect, princely demeanor he had when they first met.
Ryo was curious to know what exactly Duke Helb had merged with.
And about the star-shaped magic circle, but it didn't seem like he could ask now.
At the very least…
"I have one more request."
"Hmm?"
"A talisman… for research purposes. Could you spare just one…?"
"Hey…"
Abel, of course, was quick to interrupt Ryo's request.
"I understand the desire… but as a sorcerer, I have to advise against it for Ryo-dono's sake, who's a magician."
"What?"
"As soon as a 'mark' is inscribed, the talisman becomes like an extension of the sorcerer. Keeping it close to you, it will be no surprise if something happens…"
"I see. I withdraw my request then. I don't need the talisman."
Ryo's eyes widened at Duke Helb's explanation, and he reversed his previous statement.
"When this burden is lifted, I'd like a proper battle with you."
"When that time comes, I'll gladly face you with all my might."
Duke Helb laughed as he spoke, and Ryo replied with a smile of his own.
When Ryo and Abel went outside the embassy and informed the shopkeepers and leaders waiting outside that the monopoly would cease, cheers erupted.
They knew the roof and walls of the embassy had been destroyed, and they knew some kind of confrontation had occurred. Yet, they didn't leave.
Because the outcome of the monopoly was directly tied to their livelihoods.
Upon hearing it would end, they were overjoyed.
But the storm that awaited the citizens of the Free City would arrive that very night.
-x-X-x-
On the same day that a small skirmish occurred at the Embassy of the Atinjo Grand Duchy. At 7:00 p.m.
On Administrative Island at the Prime Minister's official residence.
Where Prime Minister Noson resided.
Eighty representatives of the Free Assembly, elected by citizens of the Free City.
Among whom the Prime Minister is selected by the Supreme Council.
The current Prime Minister chosen in this way is Noson.
Serving a four-year term.
And now in the final year of his first term.
He has carried out his duties without any major issues, yet without notable achievements.
Within the Free Assembly, some question whether he will be selected for a second term.
In the Prime Minister's office at the official residence.
"Excuse me."
Entering with these words was Deputy Minister Mishta of the Port Authority.
"Ah, over there."
Prime Minister Noson gestured toward the seating area.
He moved from his desk to sit on the sofa.
And Deputy Minister Mishta sat opposite him.
"So? You requested a meeting as soon as possible, so I made time."
Prime Minister Noson asked with an emotionless tone.
"Yes…"
Deputy Minister Mishta seemed somewhat tense.
Ministers regularly speak with the Prime Minister, but deputies rarely meet him.
The Prime Minister, though subordinate to the Supreme Council, is the head of the executive branch.
And also the commander-in-chief of the Free City's military forces.
While the Supreme Council wields substantial influence, by law, the Prime Minister is the city's representative.
And holds significant power.
Deputy Minister Mishta was about to ask questions.
Likely unpleasant ones, of this powerful figure.
"There are three things I'd like to ask you."
"Hmm. Go ahead."
Deputy Minister Mishta steeled himself to ask. While Noson remained expressionless.
"The first matter concerns headaches affecting all the ministers."
"I see."
Mishta asked while observing Noson's expression.
Which remained unchanged.
"I found it strange as well and had it investigated. Severe headaches are reported without high fevers. Or even coughs."
"Could it affect their ability to perform duties?"
"Are you suggesting I dismiss all ministers and appoint replacements? Surely not for your own desire to become Minister of Ports?"
"Wh-what are you implying!"
Mishta's voice involuntarily rose in shock.
His intent was not self-serving.
"My apologies. But be careful voicing such opinions, as some may suspect ulterior motives."
"I didn't mean…"
"I understand. If it becomes difficult for ministers to perform their duties, I have the authority to replace them or appoint deputies as acting ministers. May I count on your discretion in this matter?"
"…Understood."
Deputy Minister Mishta could only nod.
By law, the Prime Minister has the authority to appoint ministers.
Meaning, the Prime Minister has the power to dismiss ministers, delegate authority, and so on.
Holding strong powers.
"Now, you mentioned three matters. Let's hear the remaining two."
Prime Minister Noson prompted.
"Yes…"
The remaining two questions were hard to ask.
Originating from statements made by Duke Helb.
Ideally, he would have confirmed with the Minister of the Navy and Fleet Command before meeting with the Prime Minister…
But the Minister of the Navy was untraceable.
And Fleet Command refused his visit.
Fleet Command is a military institution, making access for a deputy strictly regulated.
Although it was unprecedented for the Port Authority's deputy minister, who has close ties to fleet operations, to be denied entry…
With no information, Mishta was forced to face the Prime Minister.
"I received… information that the Free City fleet's main force has been wiped out."
"Ooh…"
For the first time, Prime Minister Noson's expression changed.
His eyes narrowed in a probing look.
"Could you verify if this is true?"
"And if confirmed, what would you do with that information?"
"Uh…"
Prime Minister Noson's question left Deputy Minister Mishta at a loss for words.
"Regardless of the fleet's condition, I fail to see its relevance to your duties as Deputy Minister of Ports."
"Well, that…"
Prime Minister Noson's response was quite correct.
A flawless argument that left no room for rebuttal.
However…
"As a citizen of the Free City, not merely as a deputy minister, I wish to know the truth."
Mishta responded earnestly.
His words were genuine.
He believed that citizens should be aware of such matters.
"Hmm."
Prime Minister Noson murmured, glancing at the clock.
Just around 7 p.m.
"We plan to announce to all citizens tonight on this matter."
"Is that so?"
Deputy Minister Mishta was surprised at the Prime Minister's words.
As he had received no prior notification.
"After the announcement, government notification will be sent to all departments and citizens through associations and public facilities."
These government notifications are official announcements from the Free City government.
For the general public, the notification is sent to the neighborhood associations they belong to, based on where they live.
These notifications are also sent to business associations, trade unions, and many public facilities, ensuring widespread communication within 24 hours.
In a world without internet, TV, or radio, informing the public is a considerable effort.
"The Port Authority will receive one as well, so please confirm there."
"Yes…"
Deputy Minister Mishta could only nod.
For now, it seemed… he didn't have the right to know.
"One more question, if I may."
"Certainly."
Deputy Minister Mishta prepared to ask his final question.
"What exactly is the Blue Island?"
"Well… If you ask me about something I've never heard of, I have no way to answer. A prime minister isn't all-knowing, after all."
Prime Minister Noson replied, keeping his expression unchanged in response to Deputy Minister Mishita's question.
"Shall we conclude here?"
"…Yes. Thank you."
Mishta replied before leaving the Prime Minister's office, having gained nothing from the meeting.
In the aide's office near the Deputy Minister of Ports' office.
Three aides were present.
Ronfan, aide to the deputy minister of the Port Authority;
Zo, aide to the minister of the Port Authority;
And Juse, aide to the minister of Foreign Affairs.
"You mean both ministers?"
"Yes, that's right."
Ronfan asked, Zo confirmed, and Juse silently nodded in agreement.
"The ministers were summoned to the Prime Minister's office at the same time… but there's no cabinet meeting scheduled. And it's almost eight o'clock. At night… And without their aides?"
"They specifically told us not to accompany them."
Zo replied to Ronfan's question. And Juse nodded in agreement.
"And how's the headache? I heard it's so bad sometimes he can't even get out of bed."
"Tonight, he seemed fine. He looked calm… more like he lacked any energy. He was answering normally, but it felt like his spirit wasn't there… As if he was someone else entirely."
"A puppet…"
Zo answered Ronfan's inquiry, adding to the information, and Juse muttered.
Both Ronfan and Zo looked at Juse.
"What do you mean…?"
"Now that you mention it…"
Ronfan and Zo shook their heads slightly.
At that moment, the door suddenly opened.
"Whoa!"
Ronfan jumped in surprise.
And so did Zo and Juse.
Talking about 'puppets' had left them feeling uneasy, so the sudden opening of the door startled them…
Entering from the hallway was Deputy Minister Mishta, returning from the Prime Minister's office.
"Ronfan, you're still here? I told you there was no need to wait for me…hm?"
Mishta then noticed the other two aides with Ronfan.
"Ah, you're Zo, aide to the Minister of Ports, and Juse, aide to the Minister of Foreign Affairs. I believe you were classmates with Ronfan?"
"Yes."
Deputy Minister Mishta was thorough about remembering names and faces.
Which was invaluable in his work.
"Deputy Minister. Both the Minister of Ports and the Minister of Foreign Affairs went to the Prime Minister's office. Did you see them?"
"No, I just met with the Prime Minister, but he didn't mention anything."
Mishta replied, looking puzzled.
"Why would two ministers be at the Prime Minister's office at this hour?"
"Apparently, other ministers are headed there as well."
Zo replied.
He had overheard this information before coming here.
"That's strange… What in the world is happening?"
Deputy Minister Mishta murmured.
Of course, none of the people here had enough information to answer that question.
As the four of them talked, Ronfan noticed noise coming from the hallway.
Soon, someone rushed up to the door and burst in.
"It's urgent!"
The fellow was a member of the Ministry of Ports' public relations department.
Someone Ronfan often spoke with in his line of work.
"Ah, Deputy Minister! Apologies for barging in!"
The PR officer bowed quickly in apology.
"It's fine. What's the emergency?"
Mishta prompted.
As he and the others were eager to know.
"Right! A Government Notification has just arrived from the Prime Minister's office."
Twenty copies of government notifications were delivered to each ministry.
The PR officer had brought one of them.
He handed it over to Deputy Minister Mishta.
Mishta took it and began reading voraciously.
"What…?"
He murmured in shock.
"Deputy Minister?"
Ronfan called. Zo and Juse looked on, concerned.
"As of 8 p.m. tonight, the Free City of Kwebasa will come under the protection of the Atinjo Grand Duchy. This has been decided by the Free City Government…"
"Ridiculous!"
Deputy Minister Mishta read out, and Ronfan and Zo shouted in unison.
"The Prime Minister and all the cabinet ministers have approved it…"
Mishta's voice weakened as he spoke.
Everything he had believed in, everything he had dedicated himself to and fought to protect with all his might… was crumbling to pieces.
-x-X-x-
The government's notice was delivered to various locations that very night.
However, many citizens of the Free City only saw it the following morning.
It was seen around their homes.
It was seen at their workplaces.
And even… at inns.
"This has become quite serious."
"Yeah. It seems the Grand Duchy had already infiltrated the government."
Ryo and Abel discussed the government notice, which had reached the 'Freedom Breeze Inn', both frowning as they read.
In front of the notice posted in the lobby, they were not alone; other guests were also gathering and discussing the matter.
Some even debated abandoning their negotiations in the Free City and returning to their homeland…
"But doesn't the Free City have people with more power than the Prime Minister?"
"That would be the Supreme Council."
Abel replied precisely to Ryo's question.
The Supreme Council of the Free City of Kwebasa is composed of the heads of the eight major merchant guilds.
This Council elects the Prime Minister from among the members of the Free Parliament.
Therefore, the Supreme Council is considered the most powerful institution in the Free City.
"However, the nation's representative is apparently the Prime Minister. The law grants the Prime Minister considerable authority."
"But this… doesn't seem like a decision aligned with the Supreme Council's wishes, does it?"
"That may be true. There could be some movement soon."
Neither Ryo nor Abel knew the detailed actions of the Free City's government.
They both felt… somewhat vaguely, an aversion to watching a country before them fall to invasion.
That said, they were not citizens of the Free City.
They were quite curious about how the government, the Grand Duchy, and the citizens would act next.
"For now, we know what we need to do."
"Hm?"
"We'll go to the Adventurers' Mutual Aid Society, get a guidebook, and head to some recommended eateries!"
"…Is that really what we need to do?"
"Of course! And primarily, we'll be confirming whether these shops are still open and have access to ingredients."
"Oh, I see… That is indeed important. And if they're not open?"
"Simple. We'll raid the Grand Duchy's embassy once again!"
"Unlike before, the Grand Duchy seems to have become the suzerain of this Free City…"
"That's irrelevant. No, in fact. As the suzerain, it must ensure food reaches the citizens!"
Ryo declared firmly.
Abel, too, understood that Ryo's words carried a certain logic.
Though…
"We can only hope the Grand Duchy behaves rationally."
Abel prayed to a god he had yet to meet.
Before noon.
Having successfully received a dining guide from the guild, Ryo and Abel stood before the first establishment listed.
"So, this place is, 'Eat! Eat! Eat!' —quite a bold name."
"Well, at least it's clear what kind of place it is."
Ryo and Abel glanced around the door.
"There's no 'Closed' sign up."
"Right. Shall we go in?"
The two stepped inside.
"Welcome!"
A deep male voice called from the back.
"Table for two."
"Please, take any seat you like!"
Ryo and Abel exchanged a small fist bump in secret.
At the very least, a meal awaited them.
They wouldn't go hungry today.
And from the kitchen came the most delicious aroma…
"This looks promising."
"Considering the recommendations, it's bound to be delicious!"
And so, the two were drowned in an ocean of flavors…
"That last bit of chicken was overkill. That was definitely Abel's fault."
"The large sweet-and-spicy stir-fried rice was beyond excessive as well. That miscalculation was yours, Ryo."
Yes, Ryo and Abel had overindulged.
Indeed, as everyone had foreseen.
Only the two involved had thoughtlessly overdone it.
But who could blame them?
Delicious food is addictive.
The two then decided to rest their stomachs in the cafe at the 'Freedom Breeze Inn'.
Initially, they'd headed to the tea shop in the plaza where they'd also rested after meals on the first and second days, but it was still under repairs.
Apparently, when the government officials were attacked, the walls and floors had also been damaged, so it was closed for now.
Thus, the inn's café became their place for a stomach break.
"This coffee… Mandheling, is it? Mandheling coffee on Earth originates from Southeast Asia, and this area on the southern continent or the archipelago region gives a similar vibe… Interesting. Okay, I'll go with the Mandheling."
"I'll have the same…"
Ryo had focused on the Mandheling coffee on the menu.
Abel, unable to even look at the menu, seemed to leave everything to Ryo.
"I'll get Abel the extra spicy red chili juice."
"Hey, don't…!"
"Unfortunately, that juice isn't available. I guess we'll settle for Mandheling coffee."
"Why can't you just order it normally…"
"The rivalry between magicians and swordsmen is an eternal fate, written since ancient times. It is what it is."
"I know that's nonsense."
Ryo and Abel were simply bantering.
They were not in conflict.
And certainly not at odds with each other.
In fact, they were comrades-in-arms.
Comrades who had braved the battlefield called 'Eat! Eat! Eat!' together.
"Still… what we feared has actually happened."
"What do you mean?"
"Of course, the annexation of the Free City by the Grand Duchy."
Yes, I was concerned, and I can't say it's a sight I wanted to see… But I don't think it's our place to intervene."
"Abel, you're so cold. I thought you'd be the one to establish a resistance and call for a rebellion!"
"I don't really understand this resist-whatever, but… if there's resistance, the citizens and the people should rise up themselves, shouldn't they?"
Abel stated this firmly.
"That may be true, but…"
"I can't help but wonder where the military force that should be defending the Free City has gone."
"Exactly! I've been thinking the same thing. Despite a massive fleet arriving and soldiers landing. There's barely a token garrison. Yet they say the Free City's forces have always been strong enough to fend off both the Grand Duchy and the Federation…"
"Yeah, Lord Protector Kabui Somal mentioned that. Something must have happened…"
"The main fleet of the Free City has been decimated."
These words were murmured by a figure seated next to the two.
"Welcome back, Captain Gorick."
"It's good to see you returned safely."
It was Captain Gorick of the Lone Dark, an ocean-going cruiser of the First Fleet of the Sujie Kingdom Central Navy.
"I was hoping for a more surprised reaction…"
Captain Gorick sighed, as if disappointed.
"Well, I knew you were approaching…"
"But I was surprised by what you just said."
Ryo and Abel offered their form of comfort to the captain.
"By the way, is it okay to share such critical information with us?"
"It's fine. Ambassador Randassa has already been informed. And he instructed me to pass this on to you two as well."
"We're just civilians, you know."
While Abel expressed concern about a potential information leak, Gorick reassured them it was authorized, and Ryo exuded the air of someone who didn't want to get too involved.
Abel couldn't help but glance at Ryo with a skeptical look.
"What's with that look, Abel?"
"Nothing."
"If you have something to say, say it!"
"I suspect Ambassador Randassa knows you attacked the Grand Duchy Embassy. Perhaps he's sharing this information because he doesn't want you stirring up more trouble."
"Hmm…"
Ryo couldn't refute Abel's reasoning.
Though he didn't feel guilty for his actions, he understood they were nerve-wracking for those involved.
Makes sense.
Ryo liked to think of himself as a rational and sensible person.
Very sensible indeed.
At least, that's what he believed…
Though no one else would agree.
Probably not even Sera.
Not that it mattered much to her either way.
"So… the annexation occurred before we could return?"
Captain Gorick shook his head with a small sigh of regret.
"Speaking of which, how did you manage to enter the city after it was annexed?"
Abel tilted his head in curiosity.
And Ryo nodded in agreement.
"The Lone Dark is still offshore. We slipped past the Grand Duchy's fleet when leaving the Free Port. Though they likely don't view us favorably. For now, our ship is moving stealthily to avoid detection by their fleet stationed offshore."
"Is it safe for you to leave your ship in such a situation?"
"It's fine. Ocean-going cruisers often operate independently, even under similar conditions. My crew is used to this sort of thing."
Captain Gorick smiled confidently.
It seemed that warships had more roles than just engaging in combat.
They might even act like maritime spies.
"Your crew's skill must be why they're entrusted with such challenging missions."
"Being highly valued has its downsides too."
Abel praised the captain, who responded with a wry smile.
Though his expression betrayed a hint of pride.
Recognition, after all, wasn't unwelcome.
"By the way, didn't you just mention the fleet's main force was destroyed?"
Ryo brought the topic back around.
In response, Captain Gorick began recounting his experiences to the two of them.
Naturally, Ambassador Randassa had already given his approval.
Apparently, the ambassador had been instructed by his homeland to treat Ryo and Abel with utmost courtesy.
This report was part of that effort.
"So… you believe that island might be the 'Blue Island' mentioned by Duke Helb?"
"Yes, I suspect so. Honestly, I don't know what it truly is. From a distance, it appeared to be an island, but whether it actually is remains uncertain…"
"If it's not an island, then what?"
"A giant turtle shell!"
Ryo's immediate response was…
Of course, dismissed by both Captain Gorick and Abel.
"A turtle, huh…?"
"Just ignore Ryo's nonsense."
"Nonsense? How rude! What we know is not all there is to this world. As Horatio says, 'There are more things in heaven and earth than are dreamt of in your philosophy'!"
"Who's Horatio…?"
Ryo, indignant, began quoting Hamlet as if performing on stage.
Naturally, Abel, unfamiliar with the name Horatio, was left puzzled by the reference.
"I also have another piece of information to share with you."
"Hm?"
"The decision to place the Free City under the protection of the Grand Duchy was made unilaterally by the Prime Minister and his cabinet."
"So the Supreme Council didn't approve it?"
Abel nodded at Captain Gorick's explanation.
"That's correct. While it appears to be legally and administratively valid within the laws of the Free City… the Supreme Council likely finds it bitterly unacceptable."
"A coup…"
Captain Gorick offered his perspective, and Ryo voiced his own impression.
Legally, it might not have been a coup, but that was the scenario Ryo had formed.
"It doesn't look like this is going to end peacefully."
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