Book 5: Chapter 5


    The night of the following day, at the harbor that should have been uninhabited at this time of day, Kyles group had finished their preparations for departure under the shining moonlight. Though, all they have to do is board the ship, as the smuggling preparations had been finished at a secret wharf of the Marnico Business Group. Bayone originally was under the control of us, and this departure as well as its preparations only happened where people rted to the case could witness it. Theyll go with a route that wont make them stand out much, so Kyle and his group, together with us, only had to board the ship now. It was quite arge ship, but it could move fine with magic items, easily sailing on the River Chigtes. With this ship, they could make it to the Demon Territory just fine.


    This is a wharf solely used for my business group, with no other people around, so its perfectly sheltered. The sailors I kept at a bare minimum, and I have full faith in all of them.


    This is probably how he handled the previous smuggling as well. It was evident us and his sailors were working carefully, but none of them seemed particrly nervous at the idea of heading over to the Demon Territory.


    As the more troublesome individual is gone now, we should be able to safely depart. us showed a wry smile, clearly talking about Princess Ang, to which Kyles group agreed.


    This afternoon, they saw her off because she had different ns. If she had stayed any longer than that, it may have dyed their departure.


    You dont even know how d I am. Seran was lounging around as always, seeming mentally exhausted beyond the usual meter, as he showed a relieved expression.


    Its rare for you to take that attitude towards a cute girl.


    Hey now, shes a princess. Cant be treating her carelessly or Im done for. Seran brushed away Liezes teasing words with a wave of his hand.


    You were never the type of guy to really bother with thatAnd she doesnt seem like the type of princess to really care either.


    Urza valued Ang in high regard, considering she was treated like any other person despite being an elf.


    Well, how do I say thisOurpatibility? Its not that I dont like her, but being with her is exhaustingBut I also cant just leave her alone. Ahh, what a pain. Seran scratched his head, grumbling. Im usually not a guy to care this much for others. Well, not like well meet again for a hot minute. Seran said these words with a relieved expression.


    Still, I know itste of me to ask that, but do you really n on tagging along? I should be fine on my own this time. Kyle asked Lieze and Urza, seemingly still a bit hesitant to take them with him.


    Traveling to unfamiliar territory is one of the most dangerous things you could ever do, even more so if its the Demon Territory, so Kyle would have rather left the two back here in safety.


    That really iste, alright. If youre worried about causing trouble for me or dont want me to get wrapped up in this mess, then turn back time to before you met me, alright. Urza raised one of her beautiful eyebrows, as she crossed her arms and looked away.


    Then you need to go back before you were even born, Kyle.


    Since Kyle and Lieze had been together ever since they were born, she would need to redo her entire life. Albeit feeling guilty, Kyle also felt blessed that he could be together with these two. Besides them, however, there was also Minagi, despite usually only acting in the shadows. As their decision was made during the time she wasnt present, Kyle said that she didnt have toe along as this was outside of their contract, but her pride seemingly wouldnt allow her to leave her master alone despite still being hired by him. Naturally, hiding on a narrow boat like that would prove impossible, which is why she appeared in front of everyone like this.


    Going to the Demon Territory and meeting the Demon LordI never lived my life in the bright light of humanity, but how did things end up this way.


    Well, the second you ran into Kyle, you were better off giving up on a lot of things.


    Minagi was looking up at the boat, wondering how things turned out to be this way, when Lieze approached Minagi with a smile that made her question what she was so happy about.


    Im really looking forward to this trip, Minagi. Never got much time to talk with you, after all. Since we four have one room, we can talk lotsAh, should I invite Yuriga as well? Lieze kept on grinning, but Minagi just shook her head.


    Well be traveling for eight days straight. Ill make it as pleasant as possible. us said with a grin, but Minagis expression distorted in despair when hearing that.


    Eight daysI just hope nothing happens. Kyle prayed to the heavens.


    Of course, that prayer was not granted, and barely halfway through the trip, a great problem urred.


    Why are you here?


    A secret trip.


    Serans face was filled with terror, as he asked the individual who definitely shouldnt be herePrincess Ang. Kyle and his group, as well as others like us and sailors were currently gathering on the deck, but the person in the center of it all was as calm and rxed as always. Even her appearance had changed from her luxurious dress, turned into a leather armor using wyvern materials, with a rapier at her waist, her long hair tied together which overall allowed for easier moving. Even so, she couldnt hide her innate beauty and impression as a princess.


    How did you even sneak on here?


    As they looked around the ship before departing and making sure nobody was on there, her being there should have been impossible, and yet Ang answered it like it meant nothing.


    After you departed, I snuck in from the river. I used a magic item imbued with [Water Breathing] to get through the water and snuck on the boat through the shadows. Then I used my mantle imbued with [Invisibility] to stay hidden here.


    The names of the spells were pretty self-exnatory, but the actual levels of them were pretty high, reaching from advanced-grade to high-grade magic. As a result, the items imbued with them had a considerable price. It was quite the forceful way of sneaking on the boat, so it probably was clear shed be found out immediately.


    Howeverthere were no signs of that whatsoever. us seemed unable to ept this, making an expression like he was biting on an insect.


    So far, and even this time, he kept close attention that nobody would find out any secret travels to and from the Demon Territory. Especially considering a servant of the Empire, Ang, was looking for any kind of dirt on them, he made sure to leave only after confirming she had left Bayone.


    Of course. I decided on this myself, and it basically happened on a whim. I didnt tell anybody, so Im sure they must be going crazy while looking for me.


    If what Ang said is true, then it would make sense why us couldnt pick up on any irregrity beforehand.


    Why would you do something so reckless Kyle couldnt believe what he had just heard.


    This most definitely wasnt something the important princess of the Empire would do.


    Yes, it truly was recklessHowever, it clearly had its value. We knew that the Marnico Business Group was conducting weird actions in the shadows, so we wished to grasp their weakness, but this is Ang looked at us, who was frozen stiff with a meek smile, and then at Yuriga behind him. Travelling to the Demon Territorynot to mention working together with a demonlet alone a weakness, this is information enough topletely strangle your whole business. I didnt quite expect that.


    How troublesomeIf you were to spread news about this, I would be over, no doubt. us scratched his head in the face of Angs grin. That being saidits not like this situation is that much of an advantage for you, no? The tone of us voice changed a bit.


    Its almost like he made up his mind about something. As they were on top of a ship, us had all his sailors at thismand, whereas Ang was all alone. As they were quite a ways away from Bayone, they could forcefully silence her. However, as us was dealing with an imperial princess, the risks were too high. It might just trigger an all-out war. On top of that, the unstable variable Kyle was present. How would he, a [Dragon yer] act now? Who will he side with? If he were to abandon us, everything would be over.


    However, I dont mind keeping it a secret for now.


    Right as us was pondering about how to proceed, Ang spoke up with a confident but also charming smile.


    Oh? However, Im assuming it wont be for free, right? Whats your condition? Turning Bayone into a vassal state?


    No, I want you to be my personal supporter.


    us narrowed his eyes at that request.


    PersonalThen what exactly do you wish for, Ang-sama?


    Its not as if I want to overthrow my older brothersI simply want to gain more influence in discussions and negotiations.


    Although she was the princess of the empire, with how young she was, she most likely didnt hold much influence or verbal voice at all. However, things would be different if she had the Marnico Business Group on her side.


    Am I right to assume that this will also benefit me?


    If Ang may be able to rise in the family, us would gain from that as well.


    Naturally. Of course, I wouldnt mind adding the vassge of Bayone as a condition? That would benefit me a lot, as I am actually seeking to achieve results for the future.


    Pushed into a corner, us answer was decided almost instantly.


    I understand. I will go with that, then.


    Great, lets create a mutually beneficial rtionship. Ang offered us her hand, which he epted.


    At first nce, it looked like a peaceful scene, but Kyle, standing in the middle of it all, was utterly lost.


    Now then, since we got things under control, Im a bit tired. Would you mind preparing a room for me? Ang spoke like it was obvious.


    Huh? Dont tell me, you n on tagging along just like that?


    Kyle had assumed shed return to Bayone, which is why he was rather confused about those words. Seran behind him even more so.


    Of course. Not to mention, if I went home like this, you would be worried, no?


    Thats


    Of course, being seen working together with a demon would hurt us a lot, but the same could be said about Kyle. If the rumor about him meeting the Demon Lord were to spread, he would lose all of this work bing a hero up to this point.


    Why not make me your aplice instead? Knowing about the demons will benefit me, the Empire, and all of humanfolk in the future, no?


    Howeveritll be dangerous. In the Demon Territory,w andmon sense of humanfolk do not apply. I am worried if we could even protect you


    If something were to happen to Princess Ang, it would turn the entire Galgan Empire against them.


    You neednt worry about that. I am more than skilled enough to protect myself, and I am prepared to fight. If the need were to arise, I will hold a sword on my own. Angs eyes were shimmering with unwavering determination.


    Even Seran, who had sparred with her before, couldnt disregard her strength. Being told this much, Kyle couldnt object anymore, so Ang would be going with them.


    However, I cant afford to give you any special treatment, so you will have to do with a general room and eating together with all of us, so please understand that.


    Yes, this will be a beneficial experience. Please dont treat me like a princess while were on this ship. Ang seemed oddly happy about that, shing a bright smile.


    If youd like a room, then you can take mine. I can sleep wherever. Minagi was already exhausted from staying with Lieze after one night, so she immediately offered that.


    If possible, Id like to stay with Seran-sama


    No no no, Im with Kyle, alright!


    Ah, then Yuriga might as welle to our room


    Dont wrap me up in this mess!


    Well, you rarely see a demon share a room with a human


    After a lot of back and forth, us went ahead and offered Ang the best room on this ship so that shed finally quiet down.


    <em>Stillsomething doesnt add up.</em>


    Kyle was still dubious about Angs actions. He knew that she was ready to act when the chance arose, but sneaking onto this ship was a bit too much despite that. Going this far in such a short time, she must have another reason driving her.


    Either theres some other motive of hersor shes not telling the whole truth.


    I seeso itd be best if we keep tabs on her.


    Shildonia and Kyle were whispering to each other.


    Im leaving it to you. Kyle tapped Seran on the shoulder.


    You can do it. Shildonia couldnt reach Serans shoulder, so she instead tapped him on the waist.


    Why me?! Seran screamed, but he ended up with the duty of watching over Ang despite that.


    Other than the incident with Princess Ang, their trip was going rtively smoothly. That day, around noon, a giant water snake called River Dragon attacked them, but before Kyle and his group even got any chance to take care of it, Yuriga already leaped at it. As the River Dragon was wrapping itsrge body around the boat in order to pull it into the water, Yuriga swung her w to cut off its head in one fell swoop.


    The River Dragon convulsed, and sunk back into the water, drenching it blood-red in the process. Confirming that the deed was done, Yuriga nonchntly went back to the boat as if nothing happened. Watching this fight happen, Urza and Lieze uttered their honest impressions.


    Shes gotten a lot stronger


    YeahIt feels like shes gone up an entire level after losing to us.


    Compared to half a year ago when they fought in the mining city Can, she had gotten faster and stronger, and her movement had a lot more technique in it. She most likely took a lesson from her weakness, pointed out by Lieze and Urza, namely herck of experience, and practiced a lot in training and realbat.


    What do you think would happen if we fought her again?


    Lieze showed aplicated expression at Urzas question, and shook her head.


    I dont knowIts true that she has gotten stronger, but the same goes for us, so I dont think shell overwhelm us Lieze put her index finger on her forehead, thinking about it, only to quit thinking right away. I dont think well have to fight her again. Weve gotten close enough that she stepped out to fight before us


    Dont misunderstand. It would be bad for the Demon Lord-samas ns if something happened to you before meeting them, so dont get the wrong idea about my actions.


    Seeing Lieze oddly happy, Yuriga made sure to press the point two times.


    You dont need to be so flustered.


    Why are you so positive, not listening to me Yuriga sighed at Liezes nonchntment, but Urza smiled at the two.


    At night, Ang and Seran stood on the dock of the ship. Ang wished to enjoy a bit of the nightly breeze, and Seran agreed to follow her.


    Even as we approach the demon territory, the night sky never changes. Well, obviously, you could say. Angs hair shook in the breeze as she looked up at the starry sky she was used to even at her hometown.


    She seemed to be in a good mood.


    I have to say, a demon truly is strong. She remembered Yurigas fighting style she had witnessed during the day, and dropped ament full of admiration. Ive witnessed a strength that is fundamentally different to that of someone from the humanfolk. This surely will not be an easy fight. Rely on our numbers, ore up with a strategy is most likely the way we have to fight.


    As the Empire was nning to fight the demons at some point in the future, witnessing that scene was important information ording to Ang.


    Well, theres no reason why we would have to fight them head-on. Seran agreed, as he was ready to use whatever method if it brought him victory.


    Still, exceptions exist. The people who could best these demons in a one-on-one fight are who we call heroesJust like Seran-sama. Ang looked at Seran with a hopeful gaze.


    No no no, you think of me too highly. Im not the hero here, its Kyle. Seran desperately attempted to push all of Angs expectations onto Kyle, but she shook her head.


    No, to me personally, Seran-sama is the hero. I have faith in my eyes.


    Angs smile full of trust and determination once again made Seran dubious why she had taken such a liking to him.


    So you also think I went too far? Ang might have interpreted Serans silence some way, as she looked at him with a somewhat worried gaze.


    Yes, I do believe soBut, did you have a special reason for it? Seran asked about something he was curious about this entire time.


    Even he doesnt see Ang as such a dimwit who would act without thinking.


    I was panicking, I guess. I needed results to gain influenceEver since you had arrived at the Empire half a year ago, a lot has changed. My fathers condition has not improved.


    Because of the current Emperor Benedix age, he is forced to be distanced from his duties, and as this fact was widely-known, things have started to heat up a lot. However, as the oldest brother Eldorand would be crowned the next Emperor, the Empire surely would be fine. Predicting this to happen eventually, Eldorand has been working hard inside the Empire to get the people on his side.


    Dear brother Eldorand is always kind to me, but he still prioritizes the country in the very endThanks to Seran-sama, my engagement was called off, but now there has been another talk for my engagement outside the country.


    Ahhh, so you dont want to get married?


    I am but a petty official of the royal family, you could say, so I am aware of the role I have to yHowever, I still want to proceed with my own intentions. If I were to achieve something great here, I would have better chances at doing soWell, just think of it as a shallow womanmenting.


    After revealing some of her genuine feelings, Ang turned her back towards Seran, leaning against the railing at the dock, and watched the surface of the water.


    Alsotheres one more reason. Its to protect myself


    Huh? What do you mean by that?


    Protecting herself yet going to the Demon Territory evidently contradicted itself.


    Over the past month, someone has attempted to take my life two times.


    People are after your life?!


    The first time was poison, and the second time was a direct attackLuckily, we were able to see through those two attempts before it was toote, but judging from the plot itself, it was skilled workor somebody closeby was acting as a guide.


    As the princess of the Galgan Empire, she naturally would be heavily protected, but two close attempts on her life like this were an irregrity of course.


    In regards to this visit, dear brother Eldorand judged that me being away from the Empire would be safer for me, which is why I am hereHowever, I may be a bit too perplexed, but it felt like an assassin was present amongst my guard.


    Thats why you snuck on the boat like that?


    Yes. Hiding without anybody knowing was another option after all. I knew I would be troubling you in the process, but I decided to rely on your group. Although I would have never expected to sneak on a ship heading for the Demon Territory. Ang showed a smile at the end. However, Im certain that, as long as I am with Seran-sama and the others, I will be safe.


    Angs reckless actions turned out to be a means of protecting herself.


    <em>But that still doesnt mean its not recklessthis time around, she was just lucky.</em>


    I apologize for bothering you like this, but I had no other choice this timeSo please, save me


    As if to shake Serans determination, Ang turned around as her worried expression was illuminated by the bright moonlighther tears looked like stars, and she jumped into his arms. Embraced by a crying princess, being relied on, it sounded like the perfect beginning of a heroic tale, but Seran simply felt like he was caught in a spiders web.


    <em>Not good, it feels like Im being pulled down into a swampand even so</em>


    At the same time as Seran felt like his escape route had been sealed off, Seran couldnt ignore the princess in peril in his arms, let alone push her away.


    Wellif I can be of help, then


    His head was screaming with rm signals, but he still answered like that with a smile.


    Really?!


    As if she had waited for those words, Angs head shot up instantly. Her face showed a bright smile, her tears from before dried up.


    Im d, I was worried that I would just be in the way, but now I can rely on you!


    Ang was in a great mood, whereas Serans head was filled with words such as abyss and swamp.


    Then, would you please ept this? Ang took out a magic item that looked like a ne. This magic item has been imbued with [Telepathy]. It is the exact replica of the one I am wearing, and it allows us to shortly convey our thoughts to the other person, albeit only once a day.


    No no, I cant ept that


    Please see it as a token of my trust.


    Seran tried to politely decline, but Ang practically forced it onto him as she put it around his neck.


    <em>Damn it, it feels like Im falling deeper and deeper</em>


    It fits you wonderfully. Ang smiled happily, but Seran could only return a vague expression.


    As Kyle was listening to the twos conversation from the shadows, hepletely ignored Serans dilemma and instead started thinking about the Empire and the information he had just received.


    <em>Its expected that the Emperor will pass away, but now Princess Ang is in danger? What is this about?</em>


    So you were listening, huh. Kyle looked up at the mast, speaking out into the darkness.


    Yesthough Im surprised you caught on to my presence.


    It looked like nobody was there. And yet, you could hear Minagis voice, her pride hurt after being discovered. This was a special skill called [Shrouded Invisibility] used by shinobi to conceal themselves, which allowed them to bepletely invisible to the average persons eyes even inside a crowd during broad daylight. This worked even better during the darkness of night, so being spotted this quickly must have hurt Miangi.


    Call it something like intuitionMore importantly, do you have any idea who might be after the Princess life?


    As Minagi had previously been hired to assassinate someone from the royal family, she had experience looking to the rows, and in the future Kyle came from, she also was the one who assassinated Eldorand. However, through the death of Zilgus King Remonas, this contract fell t, and she gave up on that.


    I was hired by King Remonas, but theres too many individuals or organizations with possible motives like that, its impossible to say for certain. Minagi shrugged her shoulders. But, attempting it twice like that shows that they must be experienced or have help from the inside. That princess doesnt seem too clever or sharp, so when she feels this much danger, she must have some kind of reason.


    Something going on inside the Empire? But


    Kyle started thinking once more. Since Eldorands assassination was stopped, he assumed that it would not tread down the same path, but that was most likely naive thinking. If possible, Kyle wished for Maizar to be the future Emperor, but considering the preparations for the war against the demons, he wanted the Galgan Empire to have its full strength once the time came, otherwise it would be too busy with internal affairs to deal with the outside threat.


    Just as the princess said, the situation changed quite a bitpared to half a year agoThings are getting out of control, possibly.


    Guess well have to head there again.


    Kyle was unsure if there was even anything they could do, but it was better than not doing anything.


    By the way, why are you even here, Minagi?


    Since Kyle was curious about Princess Angs motive, he secretly followed them, but he was surprised to find Minagi doing the same.


    If I stayed in that room any longer, Lieze would not let me rest at all.


    It appeared as if staying in the same room with Lieze was something Minagi wanted to avoid.


    Well, shes got no bad intentions, so put up with it. Kyle cruelly ignored Minagisint.