Kays Translations

Chapter 6: The Strongest Onmyoji, Considering

A few moments after the audience.

We were in a separate room within the imperial palace grounds, designated for the stay of dignitaries.

It was the usual residence of Fiona.

Immediately after the audience, we declined the official's guidance and asked her for a place where we could have a private conversation.

"What's going on?"

I addressed Fiona, unable to hide my urgency.

I could sense my composure slipping away.

But the situation demanded it. There were several things that needed clarification.

"I never heard anything about resolving the rebellion through Amu. If I had known such a request would come, I wouldn't have returned to the imperial capital."

"...I couldn't have anticipated it either."

Fiona speaks with a stern expression, placing her hand over her mouth.

"I was aware of the rebellion, of course, and that the dispatch of the military was delayed. However... I never expected they would intend to send Amu to deal with it."

After a moment of contemplation, Fiona poses a question to us.

“And what reply did you give to His Majesty?"

In response to Fiona's question, Mabel and Iifa exchange glances before answering.

"Seika was saying something complicated, trying to buy time."

"Um... Seika asked His Majesty to consider the matter carefully because it's a delicate situation."

"Ah... yes. If His Majesty agreed to let us go easily after that, it would be good news."

Saying this, Fiona shows a slightly relieved expression.

As she contemplates again, I inquire.

"We were completely unaware of the rebellion itself. The details we heard from the Emperor seemed somewhat unbelievable... Is there really a rebellion happening, involving slaves and believers?"

"Yes."

Fiona nods and responds

"Formal information reached the imperial capital about half a month ago. The initial rebellions occurred almost simultaneously. The combined forces from these events seem to be around 20,000 to 30,000, but they have since divided into several groups. They use the cities they've taken as bases and seem to procure supplies through looting."

"I see."

Multiple large-scale rebellions happening simultaneously is quite unlucky, for both the empire and us.

Perhaps my lack of knowledge of similar incidents is simply because such unfortunate coincidences are rare.

I continue with my questions.

"I heard that a fortified city has fallen. Why did that happen? Normally, if you close the city gates, rebel forces shouldn't be able to do anything. Are they in possession of siege weapons and have a functional command structure allowing them to use them?"

"That... as of now, I can't say for sure."

Fiona, with her eyes slightly averted, responds.

"The presence of a specific leader is not clear, but it seems that there is a certain chain of command. However, it's unlikely that siege weapons have been taken. Perhaps they employed means such as having a traitor open the city gate."

"I see."

In that case, it seems plausible. 

If it's a group of slaves or commoners, such methods would be easier to use.

Gradually, as I talked with Fiona, I began to grasp the whole picture.

It doesn't seem as strange a rebellion as my initial impression suggested.

However, that doesn't mean the situation is improving.

I sigh heavily and say

"At least... if we could have stayed hidden from the court for another half year or so. By that time, the rebellion might have settled. It was a matter of time, but I never expected to be discovered so quickly."

"...Regarding that, I think Seika-sama's actions may have played a role."

"...Huh?"

At the unexpected response, I blinked and looked at Fiona.

With her gaze fixed on me and a slightly moistened expression, Fiona spoke.

"Everyone, in Rakana, were you adventurers under your real names?"

"Uh... yes."

"Normally, even criminals without education or runaway slaves would consider using fake names, don't you think?"

"Well, that was, um... I guess it slipped my mind."

Unconsciously averting my gaze from Fiona, I offered an excuse.

I hadn't even considered that aspect. Rather, I thought as long as I was in Rakana, it would be fine even if our whereabouts were discovered, so I hadn't paid any attention to that.

Fiona said somewhat resentfully 

"I was worried when information came through the affiliated trading company. Since people come and go in Rakana, if you stand out, it becomes gossip. As a precaution, I spread rumors about an adventurer named Amu in other cities... but the stampede was decisive. The names of Seika-sama and others hadn't reached the imperial capital, but I'm sure His Majesty learned of your exploits through his own intelligence network."

"Uh..."

"Well, I also bear responsibility for not mentioning the use of fake names beforehand. The stampede was initially unforeseen, so there's no helping it."

"Oh, um... I'm sorry."

While relieved that I wasn't being blamed too much, Fiona continued to inquire.

"By the way, you haven't left Rakana, have you?"

"Um..."

"Don't tell me?"

"I did go to Keltz once... for an adventurer's job..."

"What!?"

"N-no, it was just for about a month..."

"....Anything else?"

"W-well..."

I told a lie, avoiding eye contact.

"...I haven't gone anywhere. Nowhere at all."

Fiona let out a grand sigh and spoke

"You've let your guard down too much. Considering you were being pursued, please be more careful. It's already too late."

"I'm sorry."

Apologizing, I once again breathed a sigh of relief internally. 

It seemed that they didn't know I had entered the territory of the demonic race.

I thought it wouldn't be surprising if they discovered it through their foresight ability, but perhaps Fiona either wouldn't find out about it in the future, or she hadn't seen the moment of discovery yet. If it was the latter, the upcoming events might be a bit unsettling.

Shaking my head to clear my thoughts, I decided there were more important matters at hand.

I cleared my throat lightly and began to speak.

"Um, going back to our conversation...why would the Emperor order Amu to deal with the rebellion? I understand the complications of mobilizing the Imperial Army, but even so, there should be plenty of other options, like hiring mercenaries or employing different methods. Does he really believe that the power of one hero can match a large army?"

"I don't know."

Fiona wore a troubled expression and lowered her gaze.

"Considering His Majesty, he wouldn't make a miscalculation in that regard. I believe he has some plan... but I, I don't have any insights."

"Even with your foresight ability?"

"Yes."

Fiona nodded faintly, but decisively.

"Probably... His Majesty is acting with measures against my foresight."

"Measures against foresight...?"

I instinctively furrowed my brows.

"Is that even possible?"

"This power is by no means omnipotent."

Fiona continued

"I can never know things that are forever beyond my reach. Information obtained not through personal experience but in the form of hearsay becomes difficult to know in detail. There are other weaknesses as well... but His Majesty seems to combine countermeasures, preventing the exposure of his own plans."

"It's a bit hard to believe... Why do you think that?"

"Because I have hardly been able to foresee significant futures related to His Majesty in advance. Unnaturally so. This incident is no exception."

Saying that, Fiona pressed her lips together.

Even the current conversation we were having was likely beyond Fiona's foresight.

While the means by which this was achieved were unknown, it was clear that even with foresight, there was no omnipotence. As evidenced by the fact that she couldn't foresee my entry into the demonic territory just a while ago, even foresight had its limits. It wouldn't be surprising if there were some countermeasure in place.

At the very least, it could be said that whoever relied on her power wouldn't necessarily have everything under control.

"...Emperor, he seemed like a kind person, though..."

Iifa hesitated before speaking.

"Is he not what he appears to be?"

"...No, he's not."

Fiona weakly smiled and said 

"I don't think anyone truly understands what kind of person the Emperor is."

As if explaining it to herself, Fiona continued

"The Emperor ascended to the throne at a young age, triggered by the death of the previous Emperor. Originally, the previous Emperor had adopted a successor, but that adopted heir died suddenly, and the throne passed to the current Emperor. Ascending to the throne without a solid foundation... since then, he has reigned as Emperor for over twenty years without becoming anyone's puppet, without succumbing to the strain or falling to a dagger."

"Is that... impressive?"

Not fully grasping it, Mabel tilted her head and asked.

With a slight wry smile, Fiona responded.

"Yes. The position of the Emperor is harsh. If you delve into history, there are not few instances where Emperors succumbed to the strain, fell ill, or were assassinated after conflicts with lawmakers or nobles. Ascending to the throne in one's twenties and continuing to be Emperor without major mistakes is, in my opinion, exceptional."

"Hmm..."

"Furthermore... I've heard that the Emperor has never had anyone close to him whom you could call a confidant. He maintains a certain distance from everyone and has always had such an attitude, I'm told. Since his ascension, all this time."

"..."

Even a monarch is human.

Sometimes, they show vulnerability, seek advice, and may want to rely on competent subordinates. Normally.

If the Emperor doesn't have a trusted confidant, and without someone behind the scenes manipulating things, continuing to manage the affairs of this vast empire relying solely on his own power, it is indeed challenging to label him as an ordinary monarch.

"By the way... this distance isn't reserved just for me; it's the same even for his own flesh and blood. The Emperor treats his three sons, his own flesh and blood, and me, in the same detached manner."

"... The Empress, if I recall, passed away about eighteen years ago."

"Yes."

When I asked, Fiona nodded with a smile.

"Since then, he hasn't remarried, and there haven't been any lovers or mistresses, except for my mother."

"..."

"If there was anyone who truly understood the Emperor, it would have been the Empress or my mother, I suppose. ...But now, there's no way to confirm that."

"..."

When I first saw the Emperor, he left an impression of an unremarkable man, lacking the aura of a ruler.

But upon reflection, an ordinary man couldn't have governed this vast empire for over twenty years. The impression of being unremarkable in itself could be considered abnormal.

I sighed heavily again.

It seems that dealing with him is more complicated than I initially imagined. Dealing with rulers is indeed more trouble than it's worth.

"... Well, the current issue is how to respond to the Emperor's request."

As I muttered, trying to gather my thoughts, Fiona immediately spoke up.

"It's okay to refuse. No, you should refuse."

Surprised by her quick response, I blinked and asked her.

"Is it really okay to refuse?"

"Yes. If the Emperor intended to make it impossible to refuse, he would have made Amu nod in agreement during the audience. Besides, the citizens are not obliged to heed a personal request from the Emperor that hasn't gone through the parliament."

"... Is that how it is?"

Fiona's words brought me some relief.

Perhaps the Emperor didn't genuinely expect Amyu to resolve the rebellion.

Fiona continued with a serious expression.

"This request seems abnormal even to me. While it's true that the Empire is struggling with the rebellion, entrusting such a crucial matter to a mere civilian who is not even a government official is unacceptable. Tomorrow, I will provide a refusal to His Majesty. I will handle the arrangements from then on."

"Wait."

Interrupting the conversation, it was Amu, who had been silent all along.

Drawing everyone's attention, she spoke.

"I... I can go."

"...Huh?"

"If you need my power, right? If there are people in trouble, I can go help."

"No, what are you talking about?"

I said, dumbfounded.

"The rebel army is tens of thousands in size. You won't be able to do anything."

"But the city is in danger, right?"

Amu responded

"I might not be able to blast away the entire rebel army on flat ground... but I can defend the city if we hole up. Like we did in Rakana. If my power can be even a little useful..."

"No, wait a moment. What are you...?"

About to question her, I realized.

Amu hadn't changed at all. Whether it was during the stampede in Rakana or when Lulum was about to be captured, she always sided with those in trouble and stood against formidable enemies.

As if her hero's blood compelled her to do so.

I felt like pulling my hair out.

So far, we had managed to handle some reckless situations. But this time, it wouldn't be the same.

Fiona also seemed bewildered as she said

"Um, Amu... You don't need to worry. I have my own thoughts on this rebellion, and I'm secretly moving the Holy Knights behind the scenes. I'm sure we'll resolve it soon."

"But the city under invasion probably still needs help, right? The rebel army of tens of thousands must have split into several groups by now. If I can deal with one of them, I'm sure I can be of help."

"Enough of this. It's not just reckless; it's downright foolish."

"What's foolish about it? I was useful in Rakana, wasn't I?"

"..."

She had been useful. That was true. There were moments where her valiant efforts had helped us hold our ground. If she were to assist the city currently under attack, she might perform even better than she did in Rakana.

However, that wasn't the issue.

I squinted my eyes and said quietly

"You might die."

"That's nothing new. Being an adventurer, there's always a risk."

"No... I'm not talking about you. I'm saying that the enemy, the people you're fighting against, might die."

I stared straight at Amu and asked

"Have you ever killed someone?"

"...No. But it's not a big deal, right? Just defeating the bad guys or something..."

"Not a big deal? Yeah, right. It's not a big deal at all. Turning a worthless human into a corpse won't change anything about yourself."

Even when I first cursed and killed a person, I didn't change at all.

I just became aware.

That killing someone wasn't a big deal.

"But... there are times when it's better not to know. If you can live believing that even the lives of bad people are precious, it's much better."

"Huh? What's that? Are you making fun of me?"

To Amu, whose gaze sharpened, I continued

"Besides, once you get involved in politics, there will always be a 'next.' If the rumor spreads among the powerful that a hero, at the Emperor's request, used their power, others will start paying attention. Whether you like it or not, you might get caught up in political struggles. Is that okay?"

"... It's not good."

"Then..."

"It's not good... but still!"

Amu lifted her face and said firmly

"But that... has nothing to do with the people who are in trouble right now."

"What...?"

"I don't want to fight and kill people, and I don't want to get involved in political struggles, but... just because of those reasons, I don't want to abandon people who need help."

"..."

Faced with her stubbornness, I fell silent.

At the same time, a question lingered in the back of my mind.

Had this girl always been so righteous?

Considering her personality, if the city she once lived in was under attack, it wasn't entirely surprising for her to react this way. 

But was she really the kind of person who would challenge an army to help strangers?

Despite my frustration, I spoke clearly to Amu.

"I oppose this. You shouldn't go."

"Then you don't have to come. I'll go by myself."

"No, that's not it. I'm telling you not to go."

"Why?"

Amyu leaned forward, strongly refuting

"This is something I was asked to do. As the hero, me. It's none of your business."

I found myself momentarily speechless.

Indeed, she was right. If she was willing to accept the possibility of killing someone or getting involved in political strife, and if she was determined to do this despite the risks, no one had the right to stop her.

Especially not me, who had approached her trying to use the power of the hero. I had no authority to dictate her life choices.

Yet, even so...

"...It's because I'm worried."

After spending several years together, some emotions were bound to develop. 

No, thinking back more objectively, they might have been there from the beginning.

"..."

Amu widened her young grass-colored eyes in surprise, then displayed a hesitant expression.

However, eventually averting her gaze from me, she murmured softly.

"Even that... doesn't concern the people who are in trouble."

A heavy silence hung in the air. 

In the midst of everyone staying silent, I continued to ponder.

Eventually, firming my resolve, I opened my mouth with a sigh.

"I'll do it."

"Huh...?"

Amu exclaimed with a perplexed voice.

I reiterated the words, emphasizing my decision.

"I'll do it. I just need to buy time until the Imperial Army arrives. It's not that big of a deal."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

Amu, with a sharp gaze, spoke up.

"Are you saying you want me to just stand by and watch while you go through something unpleasant? Why do you have to go to such lengths to take care of me? You... you must have killed someone before, right? But, is it the same if you've killed ten or a hundred? It's different, isn't it? This is something I was asked to do, so I'm willing to endure just as much as you."

"I won't kill."

"Huh...?"

Amu blinked her eyes as if in a daze.

I delivered my message to her.

"I won't kill anyone. Neither the residents of the city nor the rebels. Still, I'll defend the city that can be defended and buy time. How does that sound?"

"How does that sound...?"

"No one will die. The rebels we capture alive can be sold as slaves. With the money earned from that, we can compensate for the damages the Empire suffered a bit, and the rest can go towards supporting the city's reconstruction. Can you do anything more than that?"

"I can't."

"Then, will you leave it to me?"

"But, um... This is something I was asked to do..."

"The Emperor said to work together with allies, right? We're all invited for the same reason. If relying on allies is the key to success, then what's the problem?"

Amu had been silent for a while.

But eventually, she muttered.

"...I understand."

I let out a small sigh and inwardly breathed a sigh of relief.

It was good that she understood.

Amu pursed her lips and said.

"But if there's something I can do, I'll do it."

"That's fine."

Such times would not come.

At least, there would never be a situation where I had to send this child to the battlefield.

Seemingly satisfied with the conclusion of the discussion, Amu became completely quiet, showing an expression as if a burden had been lifted.

However, she soon put on an awkward expression and said.

"...Somehow, I ended up being helped by you again."

"I don't mind at all."

"But,"

With a smile that seemed like a wry one, or perhaps she was just embarrassed, Amu continued.

"This is the first time you've told me that you're worried."

"We're comrades, and not worrying would be heartless."

"It's just that it's been put into words. From your perspective... everyone around you might always seem troublesome and unbearable, but maybe that's just how it is."

"..."

Certainly, it might have been wise to avoid speaking out thoughtlessly.

It wasn't just about sounding condescending... Perhaps, subconsciously, in living cunningly, there was a consideration not to overly concern oneself with others.

Cutting off his thoughts, he turned his gaze to Fiona.

"Sorry, but can I ask you to take care of the aftermath again?"

"...I do not recommend it."

With a stern expression, Fiona continued.

"If you accept the Emperor's request, regardless of the outcome, rumors will inevitably spread. As Seika-sama is concerned, you might get entangled in political struggles. Besides... there's something strange about this rebellion itself. It's not advisable to get involved needlessly."

"That's true, but... please don't say that. In a way, this is also helping people. Regarding the rumors, could you somehow skillfully divert attention so that no one tries to exploit the Hero?"

"Well, you see, there are things I can do and things I can't..."

"I'm counting on you to manage that, Fiona. When it comes to political matters, you're the only one I can rely on. I know I'm asking for the impossible, but... I want you to lend me your strength again."

"Well... I-I mean, it was tough last time too, you know? Well, but... um..."

Fiona openly began to show signs of distress.

I half-expected her to throw in the towel, but it seemed that she was surprisingly vulnerable when pushed.

Eventually, with a big sigh, Fiona said 

"Fine... but please don't expect too much."

"I appreciate it."

I responded with a smile. It seemed that the rumors could be managed somehow.

Fiona looked straight at my face, wearing an expression that seemed to mix frustration, disbelief, and various other emotions. She said

"Honestly... you're always like this."

"...Always?"

"I'm talking about you here."

Saying that, Fiona turned her face away with a huff.

Curiously tilting my head, Amu hesitantly spoke

"Um... thanks, Fiona."

Fiona turned to Amu and, with a slightly forced smile, replied

"There won't be a next time."

"Y-yes..."

Amu shrank back.

Well, after asking for quite a lot of unreasonable things, it's understandable that she might get scolded a bit.

In any case, the plan was now set.

I turned to Iifa and Mabel and asked

"What about you two? It doesn't seem like it's going to be a very enjoyable journey, and staying in the capital..."

"I-I'm going!"

"I'm going."

Their responses were immediate.

I chuckled. Well, I expected them to say that.

Fiona, looking around at us, spoke after some thought

"As a precaution, let's assign one Holy Knight. There might be more instances where Seika-sama won't be able to afford to be away."

"Eh, it's okay. We've been adventurers in Lakana for a long time, so we can handle our own safety."

As Amu attempted to decline, Fiona calmly said

"Amu-san, your position may make you a target."

"Ah..."

"You're not accustomed to dealing with assassins. While leaving the capital would generally be safer, let's prepare for the worst just in case. If we mishandle this, it could harm those around you."

"R-Right... Iifa and Mabel could be in danger if something goes wrong..."

With a dejected expression, Amu reluctantly agreed.

On the other hand, Fiona wore a somewhat concerned expression.

"But... the only ones currently available are those with challenging personalities. Well, if we make it clear, it should be fine. Besides, most Holy Knights are a bit strange, so if we get too particular, we won't have anyone to choose from."

"Um... is that really okay...?"

It seems that this isn't a gathering of virtuous heroes as one might hear in tales sung by bards.

Suddenly, I thought to ask Fiona.

"Is the Holy Knight with free time, by any chance, my brother?"

After a brief blink, Fiona shook her head with a smile.

"No, your brother, Gray, is currently on a mission... Besides, he's one of the few decent individuals among the Holy Knights."

"W-What? Seriously, him...? Is it really okay, a Holy Knight..."

I couldn't help but be astonished. What kind of people are gathered here...

"Hmm... so it's not him."

Amu muttered quietly.

Fiona, after looking at both Amu and me alternately, smiled and asked

"Did you want to see Gray?"

"N-No, of course not!"

"...I'd rather not."

In response to our answers, Fiona gave a somewhat resigned smile.

"I see. But surely, there will be an opportunity for a reunion in the future."

"...Did Gray say anything about me after that?"

When I asked, Fiona shook her head again.

"No, nothing. It seemed like he intentionally avoided bringing up Seika-sama when talking to me, and he didn't inquire about you either."

"...I see."

The last time I saw Gray was in the underground dungeon where Amu had been confined... at that time, I was about to cast a curse at him.

It's probably him who doesn't want to see me again.

I don't particularly wish to mend our relationship. We never got along in the first place. It wouldn't be a problem if we never met again.

However... at that time, Gray seemed to encourage Amu in the underground dungeon along with Fiona. 

I can't help but wonder if there could have been a different attitude.

Shaking off those thoughts, I spoke.

"I don't care about Gray, but... I am a bit curious about how things are at home and at the academy. More importantly, what's my status been since then?"

"The academy has you listed as on leave. Your enrollment is still intact, so you can return if you wish..."

"R-Right, but..."

When I turned my gaze toward the three, they all shook their heads.

Well, that's to be expected. It's been a year and a half, and I have no intention of returning to that school now that I make a living as an adventurer.

Fiona nodded with a smile and said

"Then, let's make arrangements to formally withdraw when the opportunity arises. It has likely been explained to Count Lamprog that you went on a journey to broaden your horizons. It must be a cause for concern, given the sudden departure... When things settle down, it might be a good idea to send a letter to reassure him."

"...Yeah."

As someone who won't be inheriting the family, whether I graduate or withdraw from the academy, I'll eventually be living on my own. 

While my sudden departure might have been surprising, it's just an earlier move toward independence. In reality, I don't think there would be too much concern.

However... I thought it might be nice to write at least one letter.

"Hey, does it mean I'm on a journey too?"

"Yes. Your families have likely been told that you are on a journey as well."

"Hmm... Then I'll write a letter to Mom and Dad. I don't have to hide anymore. Even if I can't talk about being a hero, I can write about my time in Lakana, right?"

"Oh, I guess... If Seika-kun is writing, maybe I should write one too. To my father..."

"What should I do?"

"Why not write one too? It might be a short time, but we've all been in your care."

"...Yeah."

Watching them discuss their families, I felt a vague sense that returning might have been a good decision.

There were many things we had to give up during our fugitive life, including connections from the past.

Now, if we can somehow deal with the rebels causing trouble in the west and the Emperor's schemes, there would be nothing to worry about.

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